CityNews 220630

DEEP IN DEBT

We the residents of Canberra need to stop and reflect on the implications for future generations, of the increasing burden of debt that we are bequeathing to them.

JON STANHOPE and KHALID AHMED reveal that the ACT cannot meet the deadlines on the borrowed billions due to be repaid soon.

NEWS

SPORT

Ministers ‘know nothing’ about drug-party claims Solo Scott answers the Wallabies’ call

KEEPING

UP THE ACT

Sit still! The Minister for Edufacation wants to have a word with you all...

This is Gillian Uhle. She is legally blind, but the Rivett grandmother faces eviction from her Housing ACT home of nearly 30 years because the heartless ACT government is ordering more than 300 tenants, most of them women, out of their homes to sell the land. She doesn’t want to go.

“Sure, I bump my head on a few cupboards every now and again, but I feel comfortable, confident and safe here.”

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NEWS / social housing evictions

Housing ACT tells blind grandmother, move out

By Belinda STRAHORN

A LEGALLY blind grandmother being forced out of her home of almost 30 years, is the ACT government’s latest target for relocation under its unpopular social-housing scheme.

Gillian Uhle, 54, was already living in her Rivett home when she started losing her vision some 20 years ago.

Over the past two decades, the grand mother has become familiar with the layout of her home, and requires little assistance to find her way around hav ing learnt where everything is.

“I know my way around,” Uhle said of the house she’s proudly called home for 28 years.

“Sure, I bump my head on a few cup boards every now and again, but I feel comfortable, confident and safe here.

Legally

blind,

Gillian Uhle in her Rivett home… “Sure, I bump my head on a few cupboards every now and again, but I feel comfortable, confident and safe here.

“This is my home, I live a good life here.”

Uhle moves freely about her Marlock Street residence without the use of her cane, but risks losing the home she’s grown accustomed to under the ACT government’s Growing and Renewing Public Housing Program.

She is one of 340 Canberra tenants being relocated under the program

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life for tenants”.

It has come as an enormous shock to Uhle, and her husband Brian, that someone with impaired vision should have to leave their long-held home, which is set to be sold-off.

“It has completely crushed us,” Uhle said.

“We’ve raised our three children here. I lost my vision in this house.

“We’ve got so many memories, not

“Our grandchildren stay overnight at least twice a week to give respite to their mum who has PTSD from family violence,” Uhle said.

“It’s a home for them, too, a place of safety, consistency and love.”

Earlier this year the couple received an unexpected notice from Housing ACT informing them they will be moved to a new public-housing property.

“The letter was unsigned so we

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wondered at first if it was a hoax,” said

“We sat on the lounge, looked around the room and thought this may not be our home anymore. I felt exposed, and vulnerable, as if I was dangling in space.”

While the former early childhood teacher, who currently manages a local op shop, understands the reasoning behind the housing-relocation program and its intentions, she can’t help but ask the question “why me” given her situation.

“We feel as if we have been cherry picked,” Uhle said.

“This is a good area, and the sale of the house will make lots of money.

“But they [Housing ACT] asked us in writing two years ago if we wanted to move and we said no. Then they called us a year ago and asked us again and said no, we’ve just had 23 downlights put in to improve the lighting because I’m legally blind.

“I don’t know why they would do it this way. There was never any hint this would ever be forced, up until now.”

ACT Council of Social Service CEO Emma Campbell, who has led the charge against the program, says the government is intent on implementing the program irrespective of the upheaval it’s causing to tenants like Uhle.

“I don’t think Gillian would have had any objection to being approached to discuss opportunities about a volun-

tary move, but it’s the mandatory nature of this and the fact that people like Gillian simply received letters telling them they had to move,” Campbell said.

“To me that’s the particularly callous nature of this process.”

While Campbell recognises the need for social housing renewals, she argues that the program’s implementation is having an adverse effect upon too many long-term social housing tenants.

“We are not against the program in principle, we just want to make sure it’s not done at the expense of some of our most vulnerable tenants.”

She has also criticised the narrow window of opportunity provided to the 10 social-housing tenants seeking an exemption under the scheme.

“They [Housing ACT] rang the tenants inviting them to appear in front of a panel which would be convened in less than 48-hours,” Campbell said.

“If you are a vulnerable person, or any person for that matter, you have to read and absorb the information, and you need to contact an advocate or a lawyer or family member for support. I can’t imagine any circumstance that 48 hours is an appropriate period of notice to give to someone.”

Despite the distress, the Uhles are determined to remain in their home.

“This is our home, and we look after it like it’s our own,” Uhle said.

“We don’t ask for much, we just want to stay.”

SEVEN DAYS

‘Stan’ Steel stumbles into ‘another nice mess’

AS Hardy would say to Laurel, so Andrew Barr might to Chris Steel: “Here’s another nice mess you’ve gotten me into.”

The dogs are barking and the Integrity Commission is very publicly circling the Canberra Institute of Technology.

And “Skills Minister Stan” Steel has looked impotent through the weeks since the stunning disclosure of $8.5 million paid over five years to ostensibly one contractor, a “complexity and systems thinker” who, in some measure, was mentoring the CIT CEO Leanne Cover and doing, well, who knows what else?

Certainly not the CIT board, who were paying him $10k a day. In a damning admission to the minister, then-chairman Craig Sloan wrote that the procurement process for contractor Patrick Hollingworth’s company Think Garden was undertaken by the CIT executive within CEO Cover’s financial delegations.

I’ve been a CEO and I’ve been on many boards of companies large and small, and community organisations, and I am gobsmacked that the CEO of CIT could wave through nearly $5 million of whatever without any reference to the board.

By way of example, I was CEO of a publishing subsidiary of a public company. We were turning over more than $600 million annually in four countries and my delegation was less than one per cent of hers!

Worse still, Sloan then goes on to make an admission that I believe sinks the credibility of the whole board: “The CIT board has

agreed that based on the information we have at hand it is not currently in a position to provide assurance to you that this contract represents value for money.”

That’s when something unpleasant hit the governance fan, followed by this: “The CIT board was not involved in the procurement and was not briefed on the evaluation process or the value of the successful contract.”

Despite having “temporarily stood aside”, surely, that’s got to be goodbye, Leanne Cover?

Minister Steel has conceded the CIT’s reputation had been “seriously damaged” as a result of the nature of the contracts (importantly, not the contractor), but expected the board would be able to “reset”

last year and was there when Hollingworth’s $4,999,990 contract ($10 short of attracting the attention of the ACT procurement board) passed through, untroubled by any board curiosity earlier this year. Inescapably, she’s in the same frame.

I don’t agree with Steel’s “reset” nonsense. The reputation of the board is so sullied that only a reboot will fix public confidence in the CIT.

Maybe it’s useful here to list the board members: Sloan was chair and has now been replaced (his seven years of service was up) by Labor luvvie Kate Lundy, his deputy. The

other directors are Cover, Raymond Garrand, Prof Francis Shannon, Jane Madden, Tahlia-Rose Vanissum, Sam Mills (elected staff member), Paul McGlone, Ros Jackson and Louise Starr (student representative).

I list them because I reckon these mushrooms owe it to our community to apologise and resign.

Company directors cannot claim ignorance, they are always responsible for not having asked questions when things go wrong. This is where the buck stops.

I know the law precludes the minister from sacking the directors (oddly, he can appoint them), but why isn’t he, hands on hips, demanding their signatures?

He surely cannot have any confidence in any of them, just as we are developing a similar feeling about him.

AND while we’re on the subject of the new CIT chair (don’t do it, Kate), some years ago, at a charity art show, I bought a delicate, pretty watercolour in the belief that, painted by Australia’s first female prime minister, it would be worth, oh, gazillions.

Senator and painter (and former builder’s labourer) Kate Lundy didn’t reach quite

those heights and it was left to Julia Gillard, whose painting prowess is a mystery, to claim the history.

Our watercolourist cruised through seven Senate elections, representing the ACT for more than 19 years and holding various ministerial positions including the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, the Minister Assisting for the Digital Economy, Minister for Sport and the Minister Assisting for Industry and Innovation.

These days, the 54-year-old is a professional director and has her work and her reputation cut out if she perseveres with the CIT.

Her board positions beyond the CIT are: director, NRMA; acting chair of Cyber Security Cooperative Research Centre; director, Electro Optic Systems Holdings Pty Limited and director, National Youth Science Forum. Alas, not a mention of her painting talents. Whatever palette of creative smarts she thinks she can bring to the CIT, I still like her delightful art.

Ian Meikle is the editor of “CityNews” and can be heard on the “CityNews Sunday Roast” news and interview program, 2CC, 9amnoon. There are more of his columns on citynews.com.au

NEWS / Corrections officers

Ministers ‘know nothing’ about drug claims

By Belinda STRAHORN

CANBERRA’S prison minister has endeavoured to distance himself from serious allegations of a drug-taking party culture among some corrections officers, the subject of an Integrity Commission investigation.

In a lengthy statement issued to “CityNews” weeks after questions had been put to ACT Corrections Minister Mick Gentleman, he was at pains to point out that the activity, currently under investigation by the ACT Integ rity Commission, took place before his time in the portfolio.

Minister Gentleman said: “The events alleged in the ‘CityNews’ ar ticle on May 12 preceded my time as ACT Minister for Corrections and Ray Johnson’s time as interim commissioner and commissioner of ACT Corrective Services.”

Likewise, the former ACT Corrections Minister Shane Rattenbury, has also denied knowing about the published allegations.

“This matter was not drawn to my attention during my time as corrections minister,” Rattenbury told

NO FINANCIAL CHECKS.

some corrections officers, and accused senior staff of turning a blind eye to it.

mission are subject to strict confidentiality provisions, as set out in the Integrity Commission Act 2018 (ACT),”

“Senior officials have a mandatory obligation to refer certain matters directly to the Integrity Commission.

“In the interests of meeting confidentiality restrictions, I could not be briefed on matters already before the

Rust, who left corrective services in April last year and now lives in NZ, told “CityNews” that the drug culture was already well established before he was employed at the AMC as head of

they are and he put it in an integrity report, and it went nowhere.”

In response to the suggestion that a culture of drug taking existed among some prison officers, Gentleman said he did not condone this type of behaviour.

“While I can’t comment on allegations that are currently subject to an Integrity Commission investigation, I want to reassure Canberrans that neither ACT Corrective Services nor I tolerate staff breaking the law,” he said.

exclusive centring upon prison whistleblower Tim Rust’s sensational revelation of how some Alexander Maconochie Centre (AMC) prison officers behave after hours, a story that has been confirmed by other serving and former officers.

In “CityNews” on May 12, Rust – a former senior director of operations at the AMC – lifted the veil on a longstanding culture of drug taking among

Rust’s allegations include cocainefuelled staff parties, hot-tub photos with senior and junior prison staff, an affair with an ex-inmate, and attempts by prison authorities not to fully investigate the substance of the allegations levelled against the officers.

Gentleman said he first became aware of the events after he read about them in ”CityNews”.

Given the matters raised in the article were now the subject of an Integrity Commission investigation, Gentleman declined to provide further comment on the substance of the allegations.

“Matters before the Integrity Com-

He said it was widely known among prison staff that private drug parties were being frequented by a core group of 10 prison officers.

“To my knowledge, all the staff that used to attend such parties, and who may still do so, are still employed at the AMC,” Rust said.

As reported by “CityNews”, Rust, 53, became aware of the extent of drug use among prison officers through a colleague who had attended one of the drug parties, was offered cocaine but declined it and left.

“He said that cocaine was being used on the tables, it was being snorted by the staff there,” said Rust.

“He was able to name the staff –there were 10 of them – we know who

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“The allegations are not reflective of the culture we want to support in ACT Corrective Services nor of the conduct of the vast majority of ACTCS staff.”

Recognising that the operation of the prison has been the subject of unwanted attention, Gentleman emphasised he is working with Commissioner Ray Johnson to improve workplace culture and morale within Corrective Services, pointing to the work currently undertaken in the area.

“My priority in the portfolio remains improving conditions at the AMC for staff and detainees,” Gentleman said.

“I am pleased by the progress made so far and commend the work of the new Commissioner Ray Johnson in instilling new hope and stability into ACT Corrective Services.”

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CANBERRA MATTERS / planning reforms

Planning shock: where the hell are the pollies?

PEOPLE were shocked to hear the realities of the behaviour of the ACT government as set out clearly by two speakers at the June meeting of the Tuggeranong Community Council.

The focus of the two speakers, Geoff Pryor and Richard Johnston, was their take on the draft of a new plan ning Bill that was out for consultation from March to mid-June.

It had been heralded as delivering a user-friendly and accessible planning system that can facilitate this growth without compromising the character istics of the city.

To quote: “Through the ACT Planning System Review and Reform Project we are reviewing and reforming our planning system in a holistic way to deliver better outcomes for communities, the environment and people across Canberra.”

Having read much of the documentation, having heard learned people present on the draft papers and having read online submissions, there is no doubt that despite the rhetoric about what it was meant to deliver, it will deliver none of that.

If these reforms are not dumped or seriously amended, the ACT’s planning system will be less transparent, less likely to safeguard the city’s character, the biodiversity will

be more under threat, good landscape design and architecture will be even less, green infrastructure will be diminished and access to influencing decisions will be very difficult – if not impossible most of the time.

More of the power to make more bad decisions will be in the hands of one person – the chief planner. This is the same person designing these changes. The politicians will be sidelined even more. Residents are to be written out of the planning process even more often than now and will have less opportunities to influence development decisions.

Geoff Pryor’s presentation was devastating for anyone who still believed the ACT Greens and Labor politicians

Geoff Pryor’s presentation was devastating for anyone who still believed the ACT Greens and Labor politicians when they said the planning reforms would deliver positive outcomes for the city.

when they said the planning reforms would deliver positive outcomes for the city.

The sad reality is that these politicians either had no idea what they were talking about, or had been completely fooled by the chief planner, or are incompetent, or worse still have endorsed this shameful and farcical process.

My summary of what Pryor presented was that the planning directorate has no expertise in how to conduct such an important review and no idea on how to engage with Canberra’s multitude of community sectors.

Reading any legislation is no easy task – reading planning legislation

is way beyond most people’s daily experience. There was no allowance in the process for the majority of residents who have their own busy lives dealing with living expenses, housing issues, employment, a pandemic, school matters, petrol prices, health issues and let alone probably had no real awareness of the impact of these planning reforms.

There was a short time frame (several months) for people to get their heads around about 800 pages of very complicated stuff about planning legislation.

The planning chief provided no easy guide to what the key points were and nothing about what was wrong with the former planning legislation. The planning directorate rolled out an appalling minimalist attempt of a consultant that delivered minimal engagements, a minimal community awareness program with very few events for people to attend easily. Considering the adult population of Canberra, the number of residents engaged with this almost invisible consultation process was, as expected, shockingly very few. This was a breakdown of good governance.

What was noted by several

commentators was that there was no engagement by the politicians. They made no effort to be available and to make contact and discuss issues being raised. It was as if they were too busy having tea and coffee with important people. Yet again, on planning matters and the city’s future, they do not hold a hose.

These low-level amateurish attempts to deliver meaningful planning reforms, as enabled by the ACT Greens and their Labor partners and being delivered by the ACT’s planning chief have clearly achieved one thing. By their combined lack of actions, lack of transparency and inability to engage, the residents who have attempted to engage in this process have learnt to trust politicians and the bureaucracy even less. The ACT Greens and Labor are definitely building a better farce! Just how proud are they of this achievement?

Paul Costigan is a commentator on cultural and urban matters. There are more of his columns at citynews.com.au

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Multicultural Festival returns this summer

AFTER being cancelled for the last two years due to covid, the National Multicultural Festival will return to Canberra for its 25th anniversary February 17-19, and will expand into Glebe Park.

Multicultural Affairs Minister Tara Cheyne, announcing a doubling of the festival grants to $180,000, said: “We are planning on making this one to remember, to celebrate this important part of Canberra’s history.”

Look for voices

CANBERRA Men’s Choir is looking for new members and to that end is holding an open night at the Harmonie German Club on July 11 for interested men to get to know the choir. The non-audition choir, which has been singing since 1986, welcomes all men of any age who enjoy singing, regardless of their musical experience or ability. The choir holds concerts and performs regularly at community events around Canberra.

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The poet’s view...

POET Bob Bush, author of the book “Fair Dinkum Fibs, Facts and Folly”, will entertain the ladies of the Weston Creek VIEW Club at their next lunch meeting at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden, from 11.30am on July 5. Visitors welcome. RSVP to 6286 4626.

…

And more of Bob BOB Bush is also the guest speaker at the next meeting of the Canberra City Ladies Probus Club at Yowani Country Club, 10am, July 12. Visitors are welcome for morning tea and/or lunch following the meeting. More from 6258 2231 or patchysue@gmail.com

Trivia date

CALVARY Hospital Auxiliary’s trivia night is at the Canberra Labor Club, Belconnen, from 7pm on Thursday, July 21 (not the Friday, as published earlier). Tickets are $20, payable at the door. To pre-book a table of 10 call 0407 835846. All proceeds go towards equipment for the care and comfort of Calvary Public Hospital patients and staff.

Correction

IN the May 19 “Celebrating Seniors” feature Prof Paul Smith was misquoted. The word “among” was missing from his original quote that should have said the surgeons of Orthopaedics ACT “are among the most experienced”. This was a reporter’s error.

A second opinion on hearing loss

An elderly woman with hearing loss came to my clinic for a second opinion, after she had recently been to a hearing aid sales person. I found the cause of her hearing loss was simply the fact that she had build-up of wax in her ears, the salesperson had failed to inspect them. You might be surprised how often this happens!

Here are some things to do to avoid getting ripped off:

1. A visit to the GP may save you from being ‘sold’ something when your only problem is wax in your ears.

Recently I was told by two different patients that they were quoted $16,000 for a pair of hearing aids. This seems a ridiculous amount of money to pay and is most likely not appropriate for the majority of people (or possibly anyone).

5. If you are a pensioner or partpensioner, or a DVA gold or white card holder, you should carefully consider if you want to use the free-to-client government hearing aids or if you’d like to top-up to a different hearing aid.

“In an unregulated market there is a lot of opportunity to take advantage of people. Yes you have read correctly, there is no licensing of people who sell hearing aids.”

2. Look for someone who is independent and can offer you unbiased advice, not just give you a sales pitch.

– Dr Vass

3. There are a range of hearing aid prices. Finding the right hearing aid might save you money and it will also give you the best chance of success.

4. Hearing aids can be expensive.

The free-to-client hearing aids are appropriate for many people, however if you have great difficulty hearing background noise (for example in restaurants) then you might trial the top-up hearing aids, but only if you can afford them. There are a range of top up options and prices, if you are disappointed after a trial, you should return them and trial the free-toclient hearing aids.

If you get the feeling the person you’re dealing with is just trying to sell you something, then take a step back and get a second opinion.

Solo Scott steps up

WITH 69 Tests to his name, Scott Sio is no stranger to being in Wallabies camp.

He is the fourth most-capped player in the 35-man squad that was named at the start of June ahead of a threeTest series against England in July.

This time around it is different for the 30-year-old, who comes into the Australian squad without a domestic team as an 11-year career with the Brumbies ended after they were eliminated from the Super Rugby Pacific finals.

Sio told “CityNews” it was sad to come to the end of his time with the Canberra team.

“I spent my entire twenties in Canberra and I have grown to really love the place,” said Sio.

“The Brumbies will always hold a special place in my heart, but all good things must come to an end.”

Sio is one of four players leaving the Brumbies this season, including fullback Tom Banks and hooker Folau Fainga’a – who are also in Wallabies camp – and centre Irae Simone.

Sio describes the end of a partnership that has spanned beyond a decade as something that “naturally happened”.

“At some point the organisation has to make business decisions and move forward with what they want to do,”

to challenge myself in a different environment.

“For my personal growth away from rugby a new environment is probably something that is needed – I haven’t quite nailed down where that is yet but I am looking forward to what the future holds.”

As well as his 69 Tests for Australia, Sio finished his time at the club

Sio’s services will be getting a player that not only has more experience than most in Australian rugby, but also one who is still performing on the field.

“I am playing good, consistent footy and it was good to do that for the Brums in my last season and finish on a good note in that regard,” said Sio.

“I was just nailing what I needed to do in terms of my role in the team.

“If I can transfer that to the international level and get another opportunity to represent Australia that would be unreal, and I would make the most of it. If I don’t take part in this series I will do whatever I can to contribute to the team in the best way I can.”

Sio’s experience will be invaluable as the Wallabies prepare for the series with England that kicks off on July 2 in Perth, before matches in Brisbane and Sydney.

Fifteen members of coach Dave Rennie’s squad come from the Brumbies, giving players only three weeks between their heartbreaking loss to the Blues that ended their Super Rugby Pacific season, and the first match against England.

“We are pretty pressed for time, and we didn’t get a whole lot of time off but that is the nature of the game,” said Sio.

“There has been pretty good vibes with some long days trying to get as much as we can in, but the boys have been really good, the energy is really great – we are ready to rip in.”

Sio says with age, and sticking

around the national squad long enough, he has “fallen into” the senior player role for the Wallabies, taking some of the younger forwards under his wing.

“Everyone plays their part and is a piece of the puzzle, and I am looking to contribute in any way I can if that helps the leadership group out.

“Everyone has their own journey and builds their own routine and the best thing we can do as senior players is suggest things and impart some wisdom to see if it is going to benefit them in the long run.

“Also keep competing. The basis of building a team’s competitiveness is how well you can compete with each other.

“We’re into the third year of Dave Rennie’s tenure and have a good hold on what he wants to achieve.

“We know it is going to be tough coming up against England but we

LOCATED in Tuggeranong, Crystal Ballroom Canberra is a bright new addition to Canberra’s venue hire scene.

Founder Joel Player says that this venue supports local small businesses and community groups by providing an open, accessible and light-filled space that is perfect for hosting not only his passion of ballroom dancing, but it can be hired out for many other activities and occasions.

Crystal Ballroom is now home to Dale’s Ballroom, who have relocated to the venue after being located at the local community centre for many years.

Principal Dale Harris says she and her students are enjoying the new space and she’s looking forward to welcoming a new generation of ballroom dancers.

“It’s been a dream of mine to have my own place. Thanks to Joel, it’s here,” says Dale.

“We celebrate 25 years this year. I started in July 1997 and took over from Gwen Wallace, who was my teacher for many years.”

Dale completed her professional dancing qualifications in 1999, teaching and competing while raising three daughters with her husband.

“It was my mum who encouraged me to

take up ballroom dancing. She said it was a sensible style of dance. It quickly became a passion for me and by six, I had achieved my first medal!” says Dale.

“I can’t imagine life without dance. The movement and rhythm keep you fit and healthy. You are exercising without even knowing you are.”

Dale says she offers group and private lessons for children aged from six, to competition dancers as well as retired

The Crystal has room to dance, party or perform

For Joel, the family atmosphere is the reason why he fell in love with Dale’s Ballroom, and he is keen to extend that welcoming atmosphere into the Crystal Ballroom, giving other small businesses the chance to run their classes or events within the newly renovated space.

Spanning 240 square metres of open floor space, Joel says it’s perfect for exercise classes, community groups and parties, with a kitchen, change rooms and bathrooms on site. Tables and chairs are

“With no stairs, the Crystal Ballroom has plenty of accessibility as well as parking out the front,” he says.

Joel and Dale have plans for winter and Christmas-themed balls, as well as celebrating Dale’s 25th anniversary with a

couples or couples wanting to learn a special wedding dance.

“I hold junior and adult dance groups as well as a social dance on Monday evenings,” says Dale.

“Dancing is a skill for life. There’s a certain amount of etiquette that comes with it – the way you learn to hold yourself, your floorcraft, control and charisma. You want to enchant and delight your spectators.”

Joel and Dale met seven years ago,

when Joel, who had been dancing since he was a child, moved to Canberra. He and his husband are proud foster parents to two children, who are also enjoying learning ballroom dance from Dale.

“Within 10 minutes of dancing, I find that all my worries go away. And I have seen that in my foster children that dancing gives them resilience. It calms, relaxes and de-stresses them after a busy day at school,” he says.

“I want it to be an easy process for people to rent space. It can be for two or three hours, just give me a call and I will arrange it,” he says.

“I want it to be an open, free-flowing, friendly and family-oriented space.”

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Dale’s Ballroom, call 0407 066110 or visit dalesballroomdancing.com

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Why Canberra can’t repay its borrowed billions

WE have previously written about the astronomical increase in the ACT’s Net Debt from the territory having a $736 million surplus in 2011 to a debt of $4.4 billion in 2021.

The 2021-22 Budget Review, released in February, forecasts an increase in Net Debt to $9.1 billion by 2024-25. Information recently released by Treasurer Andrew Barr in response to a question from Opposition Leader Elizabeth Lee about the level and nature of the ACT’s debt is deeply concerning. Lee’s question sought, in essence, a break-

JON STANHOPE and KHALID AHMED reveal that the ACT cannot meet the deadlines on the borrowed billions due to be repaid soon. And the interest bill is mounting…

down of all existing borrowings including the amounts and respective terms at which the money had been borrowed.

Table A is compiled from Mr Barr’s response. We have no comment to make on the interest rate of each of the borrowings but have assumed the government achieved the best (lowest) rate available from the market.

However, the duration of the loans and their TABLE A

terms (ie, whether the repayments are for both interest and capital or interest only), are extremely significant aspects of budget and debt management policy.

In this regard, it is notable, first, that all the debt raised after 2008-09 is on “interest only” terms. What this means is that the full amount of each tranche of the borrowings will need to be repaid in a future budget.

Secondly, over the forward estimates period, which is coincidentally the remainder of this term of the current government, $2.6 billion of debt will mature. In the term of the next ACT government, ie, from 2024 to 2028, $3.225 billion of existing debt will need to be repaid.

It is simply inconceivable, given the state of the ACT budget, that either the current or the next government will be able to repay the amounts due.

These amounts will, without doubt, have to be refinanced as the term of each tranche matures. Indeed, the 2021-22 Budget Review foreshadows new borrowings, over the forward estimates, specifically for the purpose of repaying loans that have matured.

claimed, repeatedly, that the level of debt relative to the size of the ACT economy is small and manageable, and that neither Mr Barr nor his officials are losing any sleep over our rising debt.

However, for those of us concerned about public financial management, and able to devote time to analysing the related measures of debt sustainability (for example, revenue and expenditure growth rates, net operating balance and primary balance), the level of debt which the current ACT government has incurred and its trends are alarming.

We are also cognisant of the importance of not confusing or comparing the debt sustainability metrics at the Commonwealth or national (sovereign) level with those at a state/ territory level.

The ratio of debt to economic output (as measured by GDP) is a commonly used and appropriate measure at the national level.

At the state/territory level, especially for the ACT, this measure has major limitations and is misleading. This is because in Australia, states and territories do not have recourse to taxing output and, as such, their tax revenues do not have automatic buoyancy from growth in economic output.

In addition, there was a trend increase in new borrowings before the pandemic in 2019-20 and there are no signs of that trend being arrested. In fact, according to the most recent budget papers (Budget Review, Page 91), it is proposed to increase market borrowings from $8 billion in 2020-21 to $13.2 billion in 2024-25, which is an annual increase of more than 13 per cent at a compounding rate.

Interest costs, on market borrowings alone, more than double from $171 million in 2020-21 to $345 million in 2024-25, in other words more than $2000 per household.

In 2020-21 total interest costs for the territory comprised 3.5 per cent of the operating revenue. In 2024-25, interest costs will be equivalent to 5.5 per cent of operating revenue. This data Table B is suggestive of a possible debt spiral.

State and territory revenue raising is largely limited to, apart from cost recovery from user charges and fines, taxing land and transactions, the latter of which is set to be abolished by the ACT.

We the residents of Canberra need to stop and reflect on the implications for future generations of the increasing burden of debt that we are bequeathing to them.

The second major difference is that unlike the national government, states and territories do not have recourse to money supply from the central bank, ie, monetising deficits that may indeed be appropriate under certain specific circumstances. The appropriate measure of debt sustainability for states and territories is the debt to revenue ratio, which is the measure that the rating agencies use in assessing the credit worthiness of subnational governments.

On this measure, in the ACT, the net debt to revenue ratio increases from 69 per cent in 2020-21 to 127 per cent in 2024-25. The gross debt to revenue ratios are 150 per cent and 202 per cent respectively.

Interestingly, as reflected in the table above, the Commonwealth public housing loan which the chief minister has been vociferously demanding be forgiven, represents a mere one per cent of the territory’s debt. Worryingly, the interest costs in the above table are certain to rise as the maturing loans are, as foreshadowed in the budget papers, refinanced in an environment of rising interest rates.

Canberra residents, busy with their everyday lives, are entitled to expect that matters of debt and budget can be safely left to the government and that they need not concern themselves with such mundane matters.

Indeed, the ACT government has also

If this trend continues, a rating downgrade would seem to us to be unavoidable.

Of greater concern is whether a point will be reached, if we continue on the current trajectory and with the same fiscal strategy, that we suffer a debt spiral and, heaven forbid, insolvency seriously threatens.

We the residents of Canberra do also need to stop and reflect on the implications for future generations of the increasing burden of debt that we are bequeathing to them.

Jon Stanhope is a former chief minister of the ACT and Dr Khalid Ahmed a former senior ACT Treasury official.

From this pandemic, world readies for the next

THE pandemic is not yet over. Although Australian fatality rates are creeping up, at least the ACT seems to be resisting this trend.

Long covid will continue to plague many who have contracted the disease for some time – perhaps for the rest of their lives.

However, it is also important for governments to recognise that preparedness for another pandemic is absolutely critical. Many argue that this is a one-in-a-hundred-year event with the Spanish flu being the last great pandemic. True in one sense –but not in another!

Swine flu and bird flu were close shaves. Had they been more infectious or a more devastating disease, or both, the pandemic would have been earlier. With greater urbanisation, extensive international travel and the destruction of so much habitat worldwide, the groundwork is in place for much more regular outbreaks of new infectious diseases.

Appropriate preparation for another pandemic will allow optimism for future populations that they will not have to go for such long periods with disruption to health, the economy, family life and travel. As infectious pathogens do not respect borders, this will be the responsibility of all levels of government from

Intermediary Fund established “to protect against the impact of future pandemics’’. Health Minister Mark Butler and Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced the commitment at a G20 joint meeting of Finance and Health Ministers on June 21.

The commitment by the G20 followed scathing reviews that “identified major shortfalls in international financing for the pandemic preparedness response”. Butler pointed out that “the pandemic has highlighted the weaknesses in the global health architecture and COVID-19 has also shown the disproportionate impact pandemics can have on the world’s

Appropriate preparation for another pandemic will allow optimism for future populations that they will not have to go for such long periods with disruption to health, the economy, family life and travel.

most vulnerable”.

The Omicron variant came out of Africa where access to vaccination was limited. Had more commitment been made through COVAX to ensure availability to developing countries, it is possible that the spread of this form of the virus may well have been prevented.

Butler added: “The Australian government is committed to working with the international community to end the acute phase of this pandemic, while also strengthening global health architecture to ensure all countries are better positioned to respond to the next pandemic”.

The Financial Intermediary Fund is an excellent first step. However, there is urgency for a “Pandemic Treaty”. The issue of such a treaty was the subject of vigorous debate at the World Health Assembly in Geneva in May at a time when the Australian government was in caretaker mode. Progress was made in preparation for the World Health Organization (WHO) to take responsibility for such a treaty.

At the same time the fear mongers were calling the treaty as “a grab for

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should be a basic consideration of the World Health Assembly and fundamental business for the WHO.

global power”. Nonsense, of course.

The WHO is effectively the bureaucracy supporting the health ministries of governments from around the world which meet as the World Health Assembly. It has no enforcement arm, no army to back its decisions and relies on the goodwill of its member states to implement its work.

There is a precedent. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control is a treaty that has been signed by almost all member states of the WHO. It sets out a framework of how countries can deal with the scourge of tobacco and the influence of tobacco companies. This framework is not enforceable – but it has been extraordinarily effective in influencing governments regarding tobacco policy.

Just as tobacco has killed millions so, too, have infectious diseases. Saving lives! Preventing illness! This is the driving force behind the call for a “Pandemic Treaty”. Surely this

Although Australia has not formally committed itself to the “Pandemic Treaty”, during the election campaign both Scott Morrison and Anthony Albanese indicated support in principle for such an approach.

When Australia does sign on to the treaty or convention, like other countries, it will accept an obligation to implement the agreement within the constraints of our own laws and constitution.

For the sake of the next generations, let’s hope that lessons are learnt from this pandemic, and what has been learnt is implemented.

Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health. He has been a political columnist with “CityNews” since 2006. He is a pastpresident of the World Federation of Public Health Associations. There are more of his columns at citynews.com.au

LETTERS

With this government, we get what we deserve

I HAVE been a relatively longstanding resident and proud Canberran since I moved here for high school in 1977.

I have seen Canberra grow significantly in this time and whilst a lot of this has been positive, I have grown increasingly frustrated with the degradation of this beautiful city especially in the past 10 years or so.

The government’s determination to push ahead with the folly that is light rail will leave a significant scar and negative legacy, not only financially but also from an aesthetic perspective.

Light rail is a blight on the city especially as there are far cheaper, more technologically advanced and environmentally friendly options available, as has been repeatedly outlined in “CityNews” over the past few years or so.

We will pay for the decision for many years to come and at the same time see things deteriorate in other areas because we do not have the funding available.

In addition the environment has suffered more broadly under the Labor/Greens coalition.

Our city’s reserves and parks are rife with noxious weeds including St John’s Wort, Patterson’s Curse, Capeweed, Privet and various thistles etcetera. The government clearly has no interest in controlling and eliminating these.

The same can be said about the ever increasing population of rabbits throughout Canberra although I am aware there are some measures being taken in the highprofile parliamentary triangle.

At the same time the government continues to kill kangaroos in the name of looking after the environment!

Our health system, despite us living in what is supposed to be one of Australia’s most liveable and affluent cities, is in a very poor state – this is in no way a reflection of our healthcare workers who do their very best under very trying circumstances. What is all the more frustrating is the fact that this government has become increasingly arrogant and belligerent and seemingly uncaring as to the concerns of its constituents, but we keep re-electing them every four years.

Maybe this is as much a reflection on the opposition Liberal Party which has struggled to present itself as a credible opposition. Whatever the reason we deserve what we get!

Andrew Sutton, Campbell

Cull leaves kangaroos functionally extinct

THE annual culling of Canberra’s kangaroos needs to end as it not only causes immense stress and trauma to the kangaroos being hunted and killed, but also to residents of the ACT such as myself.

Having lived in Canberra for more than 30 years and spending a lot of time on both Mt Ainslie and Mt Majura, it is distressing to not see mobs of kangaroos any more. Where these mobs would reside is now overgrown with weeds. The elimination of kangaroos causes ecosystems to become unbalanced.

Counts after last year’s cull found fewer than 200 kangaroos on these mountains, when the area is more than 1000 hectares. This means that kangaroos are now functionally extinct on these mountains, and who knows how many will be left after

the cull ends in July – definitely not many, if any at all.

Our national icon, a native species, has been left decimated in the Bush Capital. The cull is no longer about conservation but about the unnecessary killing of a native species.

Whitney Richardson, via email

Government silent on cull numbers

IF the government is so sure of its counts of kangaroos on reserves, why does it not table those numbers before the cull for each reserve it intends to cull, tell us how many it intends to cull on each of those reserves, and how many kangaroos are expected to be left after the cull?

So many times this has been asked to be greeted with deafening silence on the part of the government.

Surely, that reflects a desire not to be accountable to the public on this issue. And again, when is it going to include in its target the extra 30 per cent that are killed, being the joeys pulled from the pouches of shot females and bludgeoned to death.

It’s very distressing today to see bloodstained rocks showing more joeys had been killed this way.

Pull a puppy away from its mother and kill it that way and tell me, would I be guilty of an act of cruelty? Under the Animal Welfare Act I would be, so why are joeys not given the same protection.

It’s not good enough, minister and chief minister; it’s time you properly informed the public on this issue.

Jennifer Macdougall, via citynews.com.au

If their findings aren’t enough…

THANK you to Jane Robinson and John Grace who are calling for an independent review (not one of the usuals, please) to put an end to the abhorrent and archaic kangaroo cull. They spent hundreds of hours walking Canberra’s reserves with nothing to gain for their efforts other than seeing the backs of the kangaroo shooters here in the ACT. If their findings aren’t enough to get another opinion, I don’t know what is.

Alex Kuch, via email

When is a home a home?

MINISTER Vassarotti’s undisclosed discretion over the exemption from relocation for tenants within public housing will match the proposed Planning Bill’s discretionary power with no appeal available; a Bill that omits from its objectives and principles any inclusion of planning for social housing. Those who put up their hands to go had a choice. From the start, the choice to stay should have been available instead of this now complex and overwhelming process of exemption.

A hastily put together process requiring vulnerable residents to expose and justify the relevance of their most personal and private health details to whom?

Under successive Barr/Rattenbury governments, with the demolition of housing flats in the most expensive areas, hundreds of public housing tenants of the inner south have been relocated far from home.

Now Housing ACT is left to target their oldest tenants who used to be allowed to stay until they died or accessed nursing care. One such tenant in Kingston died last weekend at least without her threatened relocation brought to fruition by a heartless

that seeks to make sure David Smith is working for the constituents of Bean. Should Athol want to help uncover what Mr Smith can do for him, he could be in contact with Active Democracy Bean; just search-engine that term and be in contact.

Peter Tait, convener Canberra Alliance for Participatory Democracy

Electric trolley buses would be cheaper

IN my letter “Tram’s bad vibrations over the concrete bridge” (CN June 16), you may ask “Why is cracking of concrete dangerous?”. Aside from the obvious structural problems, the major problem is corrosion. Water gets down the cracks and corrodes the steel reinforcements. As a result, as seen in the Western Distributor, London, at Genoa and many other places, the bridge collapses suddenly without warning.

In the Commonwealth Avenue road bridges, there are inconspicuous doors at each end allowing access to passages under the bridge. The concrete is inspected regularly for cracking.

Also the gap between the road bridges is clearly not wide enough for two tram tracks. For two tram tracks to be built down this gap, it would be necessary to use part of the internal lanes of the two road bridges, reducing the bridges to one lane each way. Furthermore, if it is intended to build this bridge on the cheap by placing concrete structures to support the tracks placed on top of the existing road bed, aside from the aforementioned vibrations, there will also be additional lateral stress on the bridge, for which the bridge has not been designed. Also there is the question whether the bridge has been designed to carry the extra weight of the trams.

The usual political response to these sorts of warnings are denials and statements that they have “received advice”. No doubt the politicians and consultants expect to be a long way away if or when the bridge collapses.

My advice is to build a steel bridge for

the tram beside the present road bridge. Better still, give away this foolish idea of a tram to Woden, and invest in electric trolley buses instead. It would be a lot cheaper and more effective.

Tim Walshaw, Watson

Why is nothing being done?

RE: LETTERS from Tim Walshaw and Robin Underwood (CN June 16): I agree entirely with both letters in regard to the light rail and cannot understand why nothing is being done.

The Commonwealth Avenue Bridge has been heritage listed so should not have any modifications done to it and this should mean not having a road down the middle. Heritage-listed buildings are not allowed to be changed in any way, so the bridge should not be any different. The question is, which way is the tram going to go once it gets over the bridge? If it goes around Parliament House, it is going to cause traffic congestion like we have never seen. The traffic in that area in peak hours is already horrific and it will be going on for years not months and there are not many alternatives.

The light rail is only going to service a very narrow corridor of the Canberra public, yet we are all going to be paying for it. How is this reasonable when the ACT is already in so much debt, is it really worth it? I do not think so. But then Andrew Barr is beholden to the Greens, so what they say goes.

Vi Evans, via email

Disgrace to ban public from jubilee events

IN response to the article “Public ban from local jubilee events a ‘disgrace’,” CN June 9), I totally agree with the Australian Monarchist League and the sentiments expressed that the events should have been above politics. It was an absolute disgrace to ban the public from the Queen’s Jubilee events.

However, I also blame the Monarchist League and the former and present federal governments as well as the local Canberra city council! Where was the advertising of the event? Myself and many of my friends from both sides of the political spectrum knew nothing about it.

The first indication we had was a RAAF flypast over Canberra, for what we all asked?

To ban the public while inviting selected guests smacks of nepotism, elitism and double standards.

Rob Kerby, Kambah

What did the secretary know?

I HAVE to disagree with Mario Stivala in respect to his letter (CN June 16) saying that a royal commission into Robodebt would be a waste of money.

I, for one, was concerned that Kathryn Campbell, who was at that time secretary of the Department of Social Services, which oversaw the Robodebt program, apparently claimed she knew nothing of the distress caused to many taxpayers or that some had actually committed suicide.

Now Mr Stivala may have information that I am not privy to, but I would like to know just what Ms Campbell knew about the operation of Robodebt and its effect on a large part of the community. I suspect that

only a commission will bring that information out and prevent a repeat in the future.

Ric Hingee, Duffy

History adrift, off with his head!

STREAMING columnist Nick Overall needs to brush up on his history. In his comments re the new TV series on Stan called “Becoming Elizabeth” (CN June 16) he gives the impression that Elizabeth I reigned in the 17th century.

Elizabeth got to the throne in 1558 (16th century) and after the deaths of her father Henry VIII, her half-brother Edward and then half-sister Mary. She died in 1603 (yes, the 17th century) but she ruled mainly in the 16th century.

Halina Zachara, Belconnen

Dr Mackenzie’s disparaging me again

I READ (Letters, CN June 23) that our once self-proclaimed “earth” scientist, Dr Mackenzie, is again disparaging me with ad hominem assertions bordering on calumny, in respect of what he thinks I am saying about climate change.

Of course, his assertions are just that, with no citation from what I have written. If readers could take the time to check out my (grandly-named) website, alogstudycentre. com.au, they may read what I really say.

My papers agree that there has been global warming, but question the claimed cause being due only to fossil-fuel generated greenhouse emissions.

My papers also document the rising prevalence of these emissions and agree with their accuracy. However, what is not proved, and I defy Dr Mackenzie or any other climate scientist to show proof that GHG, especially CO2, is in fact the primary driver of global warming, given its relatively low greenhouse effect compared to massive water vapour in an atmosphere, the behaviour of which is still largely unknown, as acknowledged by some climate scientists.

Max Flint, via email

Lisa should hang her head in shame

LISA Wilkinson should hang her head in shame for the irresponsible manner in which she handled herself at the presentation of her silver Logie award.

Despite the warning from the ACT director of Public Prosecutions about the potential for public statements to derail the upcoming alleged rape trial, she went ahead with a prepared speech regardless of the consequences.

I believe it was all about headlines, and her vanity. Her ill-conceived speech ensured that the trial date was set back. It was also, arguably, a contempt of court.

I have never had too much respect for the Logie awards, now I have none.

Mario Stivala, Belconnen

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WINNING TEAMS

Teams that work to take their businesses higher

Beauty, exercise, law, no matter what the profession, there are many businesses in Canberra that bring the expertise of skilled and passionate people together to deliver for customers and clients.

This week “CityNews” spoke with businesses that pride themselves on the professional environments their team creates.

A team of compassion, empathy and efficiency

FINANCE director Rhonda Hubert says the staff at Capon and Hubert take pride in knowing that respect and courtesy always takes priority.

Together, lawyers Ken Hubert, Ashilpa Khanna and Daryn Griffiths cover family law, wills and estates and conveyancing.

“Ken is experienced in all areas of family law, including adoptions,” says Rhonda.

“He is an accredited mediator and has been practicing in Canberra for 40 years.

“He helps people with their legal issues with confidence and compassion.”

Ashilpa joined the team five years ago, says Rhonda, and specialises in wills and estates.

“At the time of your loss, we know you need people who understand the challenges of this time and Ashilpa is known for her empathy,” says Rhonda.

“Daryn joined us four years ago and leads our

conveyancing team, buying and selling property, both residential and commercial.”

He can also help with advice regarding contracts for retirement village accommodation, says Rhonda: “He is professional, efficient and a tireless worker for his clients.

“The Capon and Hubert team has been operating for many years in Canberra and enjoys working together.

“Many of our clients have been coming to us for a long time and much of our client base comes through referral, which speaks to Capon and Hubert’s success and the confidence their clients and other professionals have in the team.”

Capon and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators, first floor, 32-38 Townshend Street, Philip. Call 6152 9203 or visit chsol.com.au

Winners balancing professionalism and fun

THE physiotherapists and exercise physiologists at Higher Function are a highly trained team, says CEO Janet Fabbri.

She says the team uses the latest scientific research in their evidencebased treatments, and they are winners because they maintain their professionalism, and still know how to have fun.

“People in pain are often feeling stressed and vulnerable, they’re scared to exercise so we try and make it comforting and it’s a motivating atmosphere as well,” says Janet.

“You don’t want people to feel intimidated, and so we make sure they have enough room to move in our gym

“We might have Abba playing in our strong-bones class, we’ll be stomping to ‘Mamma Mia’ with weights in our hands and laughing and carrying on. It’s hard work but we laugh a lot and we try, we call it ‘smoke and mirrors’ where we make it seem like it’s really fun but it’s actually very hard work.

“We’re also winners because we’re very thorough, we give people a really good, long assessment and that enables us and gives us time to listen to what’s wrong with people and to find out in great detail what the problem is.”

Higher Function Physio & Pilates, Suite

Ken Hubert Family Law and Mediation

Ashilpa Khanna Wills and Estate Planning Lawyer. Notary Public

Daryn Griffiths Property and Commercial Solicitor

Hair team feels more like family

AMANDA Harrington, owner of Socialise Hair, says her staff are friendly and approachable, and they have a wealth of knowledge and experience.

She opened Socialise Hair two years ago, and has 15 years of experience in the hairdressing industry, 10 of which in Canberra.

“We’re just a small salon with a great team and beautiful clients,” says Amanda.

“We’re always together here; we’re more like a family than just a team.

“It creates a really comfortable and happy atmos-

phere, which encourages client interaction,” she says.

Socialise Hair provides cutting, styling and colouring services, as well as hair extensions and moisture and protein treatments.

Amanda says the most rewarding part for the team is making people feel beautiful.

“Our clients are important to us. We love spending time creating beautiful hair and awesome friendships.”

Socialise Hair, 117a Anthony Rolfe Avenue, Gungahlin. Call 0422 456690 or visit socialisehair.com.au

Waxing & Tinting · Artisan Brow Design · Lash Extensions Advanced Skincare · Teeth Whitening & Tooth Gems

The Glowing Complexions is a beauty salon located in Weetangera. We have highly qualified therapists that use the latest technologies and techniques.

Scan our QR code to book online or check out our list of services and pricing. Be sure to check out our pamper package deals. Huge saving on a range of treatments.

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WINNING TEAMS

Up-close and beautiful

OLIVIA Robinson, owner of The Glowing Complexions, says their skilled team offers a full range of professional beauty services.

Olivia began working in beauty when she was 15 and, eight years later, she says she’s never stopped learning.

“There’s always more to learn, there’s all these new ingredients to figure out and it just never stops,” she says.

She’s encouraging new people who enter the industry to do a lot of training, and practice as much as they can.

“I struggled getting used to being so close to people, because they’re in such a vulnerable state and you’re near their eyes. It’s a bit nerve-wracking to start with but you do get used to it.”

Olivia loves working in beauty, and loves that there’s new things to learn every day.

“Giving people confidence, and boosting their natural features, it makes them feel good about themselves and that’s why I love it,” she says.

“Facials are fun, and it’s satisfying to see the change in people’s face and skin.”

The Glowing Complexions, 3/16 Weetangera Place, Weetangera. Call 0401 164421 or visit theglowingcomplexions.com

Protective and energy efficient window tinting

DIAMOND Tints is committed to supplying Canberra with one of the best automotive window films on the market, says owner Jason Taylor.

“We’re a family owned business, providing a professional service with top quality automotive window tinting for Canberra and surrounds,” he says.

“We pride ourselves on our experienced, friendly and professional service.”

Jason says there are heaps of benefits to window tints that many people might not initially realise.

“There’s privacy, 99 per cent UV protection, safety and we offer lifetime warranty,” he says.

“Our film will significantly improve your vehicle energy efficiency, reduce energy costs and glare, as well as enhancing overall aesthetics.”

THE Dante Alighieri Society of Canberra has been providing the local community with an authentic experience of Italian language and culture for 65 years, says president Franco Papandrea.

“The society has grown from a handful of elite admirers of Italian culture to a substantial broadbased membership of people from all walks of life and cultural backgrounds sharing a common interest in Italian culture,” says Mr Papandrea.

“In addition to its long-standing language

society for almost two decades, says they’ve been fortunate in attracting many talented people with a passion for Italian culture to serve on its management committee. “Our extensive cultural program is well attended by members and the Society’s Choir, the Dante Alighieri Musica Viva Choir, has been a popular feature at numerous community events for more than a decade,” he says.

“Special events are held regularly. The next

Reliable team of knowledgeable staff

COOL Country Natives stocks the largest range of native Australian plants in the ACT and surrounds, says owner Karen Brien.

Her dedicated team of reliable and knowledgeable staff say they’re happy to talk to customers and help them with any queries.

“We go out of our way to help people find the right plant for the right spot; we’re attentive and we know what stock is in the nursery,” she says.

“We specialise in local species as well as hardy and cold tolerant natives, and carry a large range of native plant varieties, ranging in size from tubestock to 200mm, plus a growing range of advanced stock.

Grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees suitable for cool climate gardens available year round. A large range of unusual grafted plants and bush food plants also available. Expert staff happy to advise or answer questions.

“Shoppers can find groundcovers, grasses, ferns, climbers and small-to-large shrubs and trees such as acacia, banksia, crowea, daisies, ferns and grevillea.

“Our growth from humble beginnings has been steady and reliable and assures us of the popularity of native plants in our area.

“We know how it grows and what it requires. The team do their best to help our shoppers wherever they can, and I know the nursery is in good hands.”

Cool Country Natives, 5A Beltana Road, Pialligo. Call 6257 6666, email retail@coolcountrynatives.com.au or visit coolcountrynatives.com.au

If the hydrangea hasn’t flowered and the foliage has a point, then don’t prune as this is next year’s flower bud.

By Jackie WARBURTON

HYDRANGEAS can be pruned now as they have lost their leaves and gone into dormancy.

Older hydrangeas can have their old, grey wood completely removed and reduce stems that have already flowered.

Hardwood cuttings can be taken as well by cutting some small stems with a few sets of buds that haven’t flowered into a loose potting mix. Water well and place in the shade of the garden and check them every week or so to give them a drink.

When pruning hydrangeas, prune

hard, but no more than three double buds from the base of the plant.

Generally, if a stem has flowered then it can be pruned hard, but if it hasn’t flowered and the foliage has a point then don’t prune as this is next year’s flower bud.

Hydrangeas are shade-loving plants that love morning sun and a south-east facing site in moist, good-quality soil. The colours range from white, blue, pink and all shades between.

For blue hydrangea flowers, use a blueing agent, available at the nurseries, or add iron chelates to the soil several times throughout the year.

For pink flowers, add lime to the soil to raise the pH to 6-7. Hydrangeas are shallow-rooted plants and now is a perfect time to

spade to sever plants and roots with a clean cut, trim roots relative to the size of the stems and place into good-quality potting mix with compost and water well.

For a little while they will be sticks in a pot but by spring, foliage will appear and they will grow into new plants.

INDOOR plants close to the windows at night need to be moved as they can burn. Indoor plants need a draft-free area to grow and sufficient daylight.

CANBERRA soils are notoriously heavy in clay and don’t drain well. With all the rain we have had, now’s a good time to increase organic matter to these soils and add mulch to finish.

PREPARATION for any tree to be planted in winter needs to happen now before bringing the tree home for planting.

Be generous with digging the hole and make sure it is at least double the size of the pot, add a

size hole and see how fast the water dissipates into the soil below. If there is still water in the hole after a few hours, then the soil will need more drainage before planting. Alternatively, if the water drains too quickly more organic matter might be needed to hold moisture around the root zones of the plant.

ONE-sided bottlebrush (Calothamnus quadrifidus) is a wonderfully tough native plant that’s in flower now. It’s an evergreen shrub with feathery like leaves that are attractive to nectar-feeding birds and perfect as a screening bush for under the powerlines.

While endemic to WA, it copes surprisingly well in our Canberra winters. It is relatively quick growing and grows to about 2.5 metres tall. If space is limited, a dwarf form might be suitable that only grows to a metre tall. They can be a little hard to come by, but look out for it and plant when the big frosts are over in spring around October.

jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Musical flushed with success, despite the title

By Helen MUSA

LET’S face it, “Urinetown” has to be the worst title ever dreamt up for a stage musical – but at least you won’t forget it.

“The title’s AWFUL,” says one of the characters, Little Sally, and even the Canberra Theatre, which is hosting the debut production by the semi-professional HeartStrings Theatre Co, has given it an honorary Canberra Theatre Centre Award for Worst Title, but there’s a good reason.

When I catch up with the director, Ylaria Rogers, I find that her familiarity with the show goes back many years.

A busy actor last seen playing Celia in Lakespeare’s “As You Like It”, she was in “Urinetown” in 2010 at the ANU Arts Centre and staged it years earlier at Narrabundah College.

Last time around, she played Little Becky, but this time she’s assembled an impressive list of actors, all of whom will receive a fee for their involvement under a profit-share arrangement.

“I think it’s such a great musical for the covid time,” she says of the postapocalyptic show, which has heavy subject

matter through happy music. And the subject matter?

Briefly, (this is explained in the first five minutes so there’s no spoiler) the water supply in the fictional city of Urinetown

– hence the title – becomes so bad that private toilets are outlawed, so public toilets are where everyone goes.

Mr Cladwell (Max Gambale) has built a business empire by running toilets and

The Year of Magical Thinking

by Joan Didion

“We felt like privileged listeners, given access to an extraordinarily insightful confrontation with the way in which grief loosens our grasp on reason ”

personifies a grim picture of society.

The 2001 satirical musical was written by Mark Hollmann and Greg Kotis to stimulate discussions about the tensions between environmentalism and capitalism, but is nonetheless a funny show.

“It’s so uplifting and great fun,” Rogers

“We need that lightness, that element of entertainment, because we are asking the question as to whether the bad are truly bad and whether the good are truly good… we have to listen to each other before we can move forward.”

The 2002 Tony Awards judges praised it for its joyous music and gave it awards for Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score, she notes, so she can’t be going too

“People go along thinking it’s going to be toilet humour written by uni students, but it isn’t like that at all,” she stresses, adding that she knows the title is awful and they have The Courtyard Studio to fill.

She sees it as a platform for HeartStrings Theatre, which she formed in 2021 in keeping with her belief that artists can be ethical.

She’s not been funded by the Canberra Theatre Centre, but is very much supported by them and the Courtyard Studio has the benefit of intimacy.

Enter Gambale, who played the sort-of antagonist, Cladwell, in the ANU production

and will reprise the role here.

“When I found out Ylaria was directing ‘Urinetown’ I wanted to be part of it, and she’s always wanted to direct it,” he says.

Gambale, who stole the show in “As You Like It” for several cameo parts, is usually seen in musical theatres and says: “It’s very unusual for me to have two straight plays together in a row.”

But then again, “Urinetown: The Musical” is not exactly a straight play and he’s enjoying playing a smooth-talking CEO who’s lobbying the government to get his way, while seeing himself as a saviour of the people.

“Ylaria has a clear vision…the show raises issues that our society is not discussing, but does it in a way that is hilarious and self-deprecating — and it has songs.”

With Leisa Keen as musical director, he says, you can be sure that side of it is in good hands.

Gambale is especially pleased that Rogers is working hard to create a conversation where Cladwell is a real character and not a caricature.

“Because there is no simple solution to complex problems,” he says.

Except, that is, to stage what Rogers calls “a big Broadway musical in a small environment.”

“Urinetown: The Musical”, Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre, July 14-24.

Greece is the (lino)cutting edge of Michael’s art

By Helen MUSA

has exhibited widely in Canberra, most prominently with a grand exhibition of artworks about Australia’s involvement in Crete during World War II at the Australian War Memorial in 2005.

He is responsible for several large public murals around the ACT, is still an active painting teacher and regularly takes his students on arty trips to the Greek islands to soak up the kind of inspiration the former boy from Frankston enjoyed when he was a

island of Leros, he travelled to Sweden and studied at the Stockholm School of the Arts, then lived in the UK, returning to Greece several times.

After exhibiting in London and Sweden, he repatriated to Australia, but kept returning to Greece for long periods from 1979.

He tells me about his arrival in Canberra in 1992 from living near Bathurst for a few years and how, almost by accident, he happened upon Studio One Print Workshop

is the linocut. “Lino is more resilient, you can heat it with a hairdryer,” he tells me.

“The joy of cutting these blocks is indescribable,” Winters says, explaining how some of his lino cuts have ended up with 30 colours, a technical challenge that involves a reductive practice of printing – cleaning one block off, recutting it a little and changing the colours.

Although at first a painter trained at Caulfield Institute of Technology, then a

ARTS

lithographer and linocut artist, Winters likes to experiment and in a major exhibition at Orange Regional Gallery, he exhibited framed three-dimensional hanging works, some of which will be on show in the exhibition.

The idea behind the three-dimensional works, he says, is “to play with how you use a graphic to describe a place in all its complexity. It’s not just descriptive”.

One such is “Sailing into the Depths of Time No 10,” showing an ancient Greek “trireme” vessel set as a backdrop of Leros.

His exhibition will cover linocut images of Athens, Monemvasia, Corinth, ancient Olympia and Crete, but the majority will

IN THE CITY

be of Leros, where, in 2007 he shipped his equipment and spent two years making prints and teaching in the adopted homeland of his youth.

The title of the exhibition, he says, is intended to show how much of his creative life is entwined with Greece.

“My history of art lecturer instilled in me the desire to visit Greece, which I did,” he says.

The relationship continues – the Saturday before we talked, Winters learnt that he’d just sold two works on Leros.

“My Greece”, West Gallery, Belconnen Arts Centre, July 8-22.

Hunt takes the ‘Messiah’ baton

By Helen Musa

ANTHONY Hunt will replace Simon Hewett to conduct the Canberra Symphony Orchestra’s midwinter “Messiah” with Tobias Cole, Chloe Lankshear, Andrew Goodwin and Adrian Tamburini as soloists. Hunt, who makes his CSO debut on the podium, is head of music and chorus master at the State Opera of SA and will conduct two performances of Handel’s most famous work at Llewellyn Hall, July 8 and 9.

BRITISH artist and operatic composer BP Moore has released two contemporary classical songs under the title “Monaro” in response to Nigel Featherstone’s new novel, “My Heart is a Little Wild Thing”.

GEORGIA Pike-Rowney has been appointed lecturer and curator of the Friends of the Classics Museum. Pike holds degrees in classics and music from the ANU and is an expert in the material culture of ancient music as well as arts education from classical antiquity to the present day. She is also well-known in the Canberra musical theatre scene and as a public advocate for the therapeutic potential of singing.

TWO of the country’s biggest drag artists Art Simone and Etcetera Etcetera, will be here with the ultimate “Priscilla” drag extravaganza. The Playhouse, July 8.

CANBERRA-born classical guitarist Rupert Boyd and his wife, the American cellist Laura Metcalf, will tour Australia exactly three years after their last trip here from New York. Boyd says the trip is mostly a chance to catch up with family and friends, but the duo will perform music from their new album, “Songs of Love and Despair”. Wesley Music Centre, 3pm, July 10.

LEGENDARY country singer Fanny Lumsden, 2020 win ner of an ARIA for Best Country Album, and her band The Pack bring their “Deep in the Fallow” tour to The Street Theatre, 7.30pm on July 9.

DINING / Sourdog Provisions, Nicholls

Deli serves a breath of fresh air

By Wendy JOHNSON

Asian food expertise.

I selected the crackling pork belly with the sensational salads created for that day’s menu. I was delighted with the new-season, tangy apple sauce and the pork belly was soft and tender ($20).

flatbread with Barossa Valley ham, cheddar and Zhoug (a yummy green sauce) for $12.

THE minute we walked into Sourdog Provisions we felt joy. Esther Loke sang “good morning” as we entered while she and Gerald Ong were busy serving behind the long counter.

Sourdog Provisions – a charming neighbourhood bakery, deli and providore – is a breath of fresh air for the Nicholls shops, offering dine-in, takeaway and catering.

My priority was to check if the burnt Basque cheesecake was available. It was. I’ve been dreaming about that dessert since Esther and Gerald tested their food through the Project Enoki pop-up at Verity Lane.

Sourdog Provisions’ menu has shifted since then and is now a strong collaboration of Esther’s pastry experience (including Pialligo Estate and Under Bakery) and Gerald’s creative south-east

WINE

Jesus

By Richard CALVER

The figs in one salad are sourced from Hundred Acres Produce in Hall (a few kilometres down the road) and married beautifully with Meredith Dairy feta, balsamic and peppery rocket. The potato salad was loaded with goodness – spring onion, Dijon mustard, chopped lemon, celery, dill. Salads were both $13.

One friend enjoyed a hot chorizo and pork sausage roll with super flaky pastry and a great combo of flavours. My other friend went vegetarian with thickly sliced, roasted-to-perfection pumpkin with almonds in brown butter, plus a salad.

The cinnamon and bay roasted pumpkin was a memory jogger for me with the special spice mixture reminding me of pumpkin pie in autumn in Canada.

Other savoury options included spinach, feta and coriander spiced flatbread ($7.50), and

Sourdog Provisions has small, sweet bakes such as a classic French madeleine with honey and citrus zest ($2.80), fig and honey Danish ($4) and petite banana cake ($3.80) all made with love. Even more decadent is a Guinness Stout brownie ($6).

Cakes included “that cheesecake” ($12) and I indulged. It was light with goat’s cheese and so, so, so creamy. Another must-try is the buckwheat almond torte and hazelnut mousseline ($12), not overly sweet but soul satisfying. And we adored the cinnamon bun ($6), which apparently run out the door.

On our visit, Sourdog Provisions had highquality, batch-brewed coffee (locally roasted) while waiting for their espresso machine to arrive at the end of June.

The menu changes often so Sourdog Provisions is a place to head often. A la carte portions of salad and protein range from $13 to $20 (generous serves). Mix and match with two options $23, three options $25, and four options $40.

and Bacchus have a lot in common

LET me start with a salty joke: What do you call a biblical character who pulls into their church? A parking Lot.

As the cold sets in, sitting in front of the television with the heater blazing is increasingly attractive. Recently, on such a cold and socially inhibiting evening, I watched the 2021 movie “No Sudden Move” on Netflix. The dialogue was intriguing with many an interesting and quirky exchange.

The plot centres around the recovery of a document by two 1950s Detroit small-time criminals, played by Don Cheadle as Curt and Benicio del Toro as Ronald, the latter a drunken, low-level Don Juan. That’s it. No more plot explanation. I detest reviews/commentary that reveal the plot of a book/movie.

In any event, one of the scenes made me laugh out loud. Ronald and Curt meet in an upscale restaurant. Ronald asks Curt if he’d

portrayed in an oil painting by Italian Baroque master Caravaggio, circa 1596.

like some wine. Curt refuses. Ronald, pouring himself some wine, then says: “Wine is good for you. Ask Jesus.” Curt responds by saying: “So is a clear head. Ask Pontius Pilate.”

After the movie was over, I spoke with my daughter about this funny exchange, and I said it is clever because it resonates of the Eucharist and is a smidge blasphemous without any offence. That revealed a blank look and the conversation moved on after I said: “The Eucharist’s the Catholic ceremony where the body and blood of Christ are

symbolised in the offering of bread and wine to the congregation.”

Later, I thought: wait. That answer contains a whole lot of assumptions. Let’s do some research here.

So, according to one website, Eucharist comes from the Greek eukharistia, which also means “thanksgiving”. In the Eucharistic “sacrifice”, the bread and wine become the body and blood of Jesus. I then went to an historical source that I find exemplary when it comes to the history of all things wine: Paul Lukacs’ book “Inventing Wine”. Lukacs believes that, whilst contestable, the Christian ritual derives from the prior veneration of the wine God Bacchus in GrecoRoman culture. For the Greeks and Romans and even those in more ancient cultures, wine was sacred. With all respect to those of a religious persuasion, Lukacs is compelling in his close comparison of the cult of Bacchus and Christian practices: “Several… parallels seem striking. Both Jesus and Bacchus are born from a mortal woman but fathered by a god; both return from the dead; both give wine to their followers to drink.”

He continues that for both Bacchus and Christ, a filled cup of wine contained the divine spirit of their god, a deity that was said to live within the believer rather than in a separate place such as a mountain top. The other salient comparison is that both cultures ensured that the occasion to imbibe was formal, devoted to fellowship and centred on a mystery – that conferred by the partaking of bread and wine.

Britannica substantiates this view by indicating that, following Christ’s death, “some abuses had arisen in conjunction with the common meal, or agapé, with which it was combined. It had become an occasion of drunkenness and gluttony. To rectify this, St Paul recalled and reestablished the original institution and its purpose and interpretation as a sacrificial-sacramental rite.”

One day at Bible class, a teacher was talking about Lot’s family leaving Sodom as its destruction occurred: “Lot’s wife looked back and was turned into a pillar of salt.”

“That’s nothing,” said a little girl. “The other day my mother looked back as she was driving the car and turned into a mailbox.”

| songland.com.au

STREAMING

Full-on psycho show that refuses to slow down

By Nick OVERALL

THE term “Stockholm Syndrome” is no simple coincidence.

It was a bank robbery in Sweden’s capital city in 1973 that inspired the name for this intriguing psychological phenomenon where hostages develop an emotional bond with their captors.

The famous heist, the Norrmalmstorg robbery, saw four bank employees held captive inside a vault for six terrifying days, their lives at multiple points hanging by a thread.

And yet, when it was all over, the hostages not only refused to testify against their captors in court, they actively raised money to fund their defence.

How and why? Netflix’s new Swedish sixparter “Clark” gets psychoanalytical on it all.

Bill Skarsgård brings a creepy charm to the role of Clark Olofsson, a crook who, along with accomplice Jan-Erik Olsson, got tied up

in the robbery that took place in the centre of Sweden’s capital city.

upbringing of the series’ eponymous thief, trying to dissect his actions from a young age and setting the stage for his eventual crimes.

Viewers are slung into a bizarre, yet entertaining intro that will quickly filter out those who won’t go for the rest of the show’s hyper-stylised approach.

From its first episode, titled “Being the Best at Being the Best Was Not My Thing, So I Decided to Be the Best at Being the Worst”,

in the set is being whipped at the canvas. In Clark’s broken childhood, the colour is drained out to black and white. In others, as a rebellious teenager on the run from police, things are saturated into a lurid brightness in an attempt to capture the adrenaline he gets out of breaking the law.

What we get is not so much a factual recount of Clark’s life, but one that seems

Talking to the names making news.

Sundays, 9am-noon.

SUNDAY ROAST

more interested in how this narcissistic crook saw himself and the world he inhabited. It feels more like we’re inside Clark’s mind than out of it.

The result is quite the colourful end product, a canvas that at the finale of all this stylistic patchwork and criminal glorification is messy, but intriguing to look at nonetheless.

MEANWHILE this month, Disney Plus has dropped some more catnip for caped crusader fans.

“Ms. Marvel” is the seventh television show in the relentless barrage of Marvel Cinematic Universe content that Disney continues to pump out.

This series follows Kamala Khan, a seemingly ordinary 16-year-old fangirl of the Avengers played by Pakistani-Canadian actress Iman Vellani who’s no doubt set to be a big star.

While on a trip to “AvengerCon”, a convention dedicated to worshipping and dressing up as Earth’s mightiest heroes, the teen’s world is turned upside down when she discovers she herself has superpowers.

CINEMA / Reviews

In an era where many super-hero affairs go for dark and gritty, “Ms. Marvel” happily flies in the opposite direction by trying to return some joyous family adventure to the genre.

The atmosphere of childhood wonder is akin to DC Comics’ 2019 flick “Shazam” (on Binge), which of course also has a promised sequel on the way.

“Ms. Marvel” is some innocent, if twee fun, that will no doubt be a hit for many families who have closely followed the Marvel universe. For others fatigued with the genre, it may not quite save the day.

All the happy-clappy in the show does look rather ridiculous as it releases its weekly episodes right alongside Amazon Prime Video’s “The Boys”, a wickedly smart satire that makes a mockery of the superhero fluff on display in Disney’s ever-expanding franchise.

With a fourth season of this cynical hit on the way, one can almost hear the pens of “The Boys” writing room scratching away in light of Disney’s newest offering. They’ll no doubt be having an absolute field day with the idea of “AvengerCon”.

A Hunk, a hunk of burning love

“Elvis” (M)

THREE people stand in the creative front line of this filmic blockbuster (159 minutes) around the life of the singer credited with creating rock and roll.

Leading the pack is Australian Baz Luhrmann. Director and (with three associates) screenwriter. Says he prefers not to work with a producer, but a film this big needs somebody at the top of the heap to make the decisions and I can’t find anybody higher than him for “Elvis”.

Next is actor Austin Butler. Will turn 31 next month. 35 acting credits to date, of which 29 are in TV and short films. Playing Elvis Presley is the first time his name has headed any movie’s cast list. Watching him is a satisfying experience.

Ever heard of Jonathan Redmond? Together with Matt Villa, he edits the movie, assembling cinematographer Mandy Walker’s photographic moments into a cohesive story. Few scenes in the final structure of “Elvis” would run for more than about 10 seconds. But you couldn’t call the result of their work “flicky”.

Where was this film about high points in the life of a quintessential American actually made? In a studio in a suburb of Queensland’s City of Gold Coast.

What is it about? At its heart, it’s a conflict movie. What conflict? Is it a conflict about ownership of the squillions of dollars that flowed into the Presley coffers after young Elvis’ musical style had the world’s young women pulling down their panties and throwing them at his gyrating body while he performed? Not really.

Elvis’ voice and physical presence brought in enough money to support his family several times over and sling a manager’s fee at the man who took control of his life for too long, Col. Tom Parker.

Tom Hanks plays Parker – if that was his real name; and there is no record of his ever having been a soldier of any rank much less a colonel. Portraying a man whom it is a pleasure to hate, Hanks gives a cracker of a performance, worth filing away while awaiting next year’s awards season.

Elvis’ musical style, form and content never grabbed me during his life. But I sat enthralled by how Luhrmann and Butler have told his story, ultimately pitiful despite the squillions of $$$ it brought in. And I wonder how many $$$ Luhrmann’s movie will bring.

At all cinemas

“Lost Illusions” (M)

BASED on a novel by Balzac, this film tells how, in the early 19th century with the French monarchy back in power, liberals were pushing for changing the regime

or at least experimenting with new liberties such as parliamentarism and press freedom.

Coming to Paris eager to live from his literary skills, driven by forbidden love to a rich aristocrat, Lucien de Rubempré (Benjamin Voisin) loses his illusions as greed and machiavellian dishonesty exploit his naïveté and arrogance. Among corrupt Parisian circles, vices and bad habits, he has created nothing beyond a slim book of poetry.

In Paris, Lucien falls in love with Coralie, a young and beautiful actress, despised for her Andalusian ethnicity and her profession. Napoleon is no longer in power; press, critics, publishers, authors, playwrights and rogue courtiers are scheming to fill the gap and marginalise the bourgeoisie. For Lucien, this ambience offers unexpected stimulations.

Together with a handsome display of early 19th century costumes and locations, “Lost Illusions” delivers witty dialogue offering journalism as relevant now as it was then but with a rather different moral aesthetic. The cast includes Gérard Depardieu in a cameo as a publisher who can neither read nor write but has an unfailing sense of what will sell. Telling a serious story with that kind of pervasive comic underlay carries the whole film into an area that I and another patron sitting along the row agreed was rather good fun.

At Palace Electric

WEEKLY HOROSCOPE PUZZLES

By Joanne Madeline Moore

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

The planetary patterns highlight freedom, independence, creativity and local community projects. If you pace yourself and prioritise, then you’ll get things done without feeling frazzled. It’s also a good week to socialise with family, friends and work colleagues, as you participate in some lively and stimulating conversations. But avoid getting drawn into a fiery argument (in person or online) where you end up saying controversial things that you later regret.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)

Careful communication is the key to an agreeable week for smart Bulls. Mars and Uranus encourage you to blast away redundant attitudes, release old grudges and let bygones be bygones. Plus, Mars and Mercury push you to work through domestic dramas and family squabbles in a proactive and diplomatic way. So your mantra for the moment is from the Dalai Lama (who turns 87 on Wednesday): “Forgive others… be kind, honest and have positive thoughts.”

GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

Stop gallivanting around in a general fluster and instead, focus on revamping your close relationships. With vivacious Venus visiting your sign, it’s time to charge up your charisma and call in a few old favours. Others will find your intriguing Gemini charm and friendly nature hard to resist! So – with a dash of deft diplomacy and improved communication skills – it’s a wonderful week to get a troubled partnership heading in a positive new direction.

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

Prepare for a contrary kind of week, Crabs! The current celestial cocktail includes a Sun/Uranus connection, and Mercury moves into your sign. So you’re in the mood for change but you’re also feeling sentimental, as you revisit the past or wallow in an ocean of emotion. Proactive Mars encourages you to look to the future with fresh eyes, a curious mind and a full heart. Venus activates your spiritual and privacy zone as you daydream, imagine and create.

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

Unpredictable Uranus links up with the fiery Sun (your power planet). So boredom is a big no-no this week, as you search out unusual people, places and activities, especially connected with work. You’ll favour excitement and novel ideas over your usual daily routine. When it comes to communication, education or a business trip, be cautious. Things aren’t as straight-forward as they seem. Don’t just muddle through – get someone you trust to help you out.

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

Your very discreet Virgo nature is emphasised this week, as Mercury (your power planet) moves into your peer-group zone. So make it a priority to connect with like-minded people who understand your particular peccadillos and strong need for privacy. A loved one could be temperamental on Saturday, so handle them with extra care and don’t even try to work out where they are coming from. Travel, adventure and group activities are favoured on the weekend.

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

Librans are natural matchmakers and love to counsel others. This week, with Venus (your power planet) transiting through the dual sign of Gemini, there’ll be two distinct sides to every relationship story. So, when giving advice, make sure you communicate clearly and are scrupulously fair to all parties involved. Travelling and exploring appeal, as the planets stimulate your latent adventurous side. It’s also a good time to re-connect with your international friends.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

Are you still punishing yourself for mistakes you made many moons ago? Or are you still holding a grudge towards someone who wronged you many years ago? It’s time to forgive others – and yourself – for transgressions from the past. So your mantra is from author Marianne Williamson (who was born on July 8): “Forgiveness is not always easy… and yet, there is no peace without forgiveness.” The Sun and Mercury encourage fresh adventures and updated philosophies.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

Prepare for a special week, Sagittarius, as the planets activate your relationship zones and put you in the mood for lashings of romance and a touch of magic. Be inspired by fellow-Cancerian, actor Tom Hanks (who was born on July 9): “I always look up at the Moon and see it as the single most romantic place within the cosmos.” But be careful what you say on Saturday, when Jupiter squares Mercury and you’ll find diplomacy and discretion fly out the window.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

Mars and Uranus activate creative projects and fire up friendships. But the Mercury/Jupiter square could disrupt your daily routine and distract you from your domestic responsibilities. So aim to be creative and compassionate, but also robust and resilient. Then the bumps along the road will only make you stronger! It’s a good week to become more involved with volunteer projects and philanthropic pursuits, especially in your local community.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

This week the Sun/Uranus link wakes up a work project or fires up a family dream. And how are you really feeling? The Sun and Mercury energise your wellbeing zone. So it’s a good time to review your health and fitness, revise your diet and exercise routine, and then make appropriate adjustments and improvements. But they must be creative tweaks that specifically suit your idiosyncratic Aquarian style. The more flexible (and quirky) your program is, the better!

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

The week starts with Mercury and Venus visiting your domestic zone. So the focus is firmly on family and close friends… anyone who is a part of your cherished inner circle. It’s time for good food, relaxed entertaining and cosy companionship. As birthday great the Dalai Lama observes: “A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation of your life.” But if your inner voice tells you something (or someone) isn’t the real deal, make sure you act on that information.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2022

3 Which NRL team is known as the Raiders? (8)

7 To which animal kingdom does the jackal belong? (6)

8 What is another name for the card game “nap”? (8)

9 What do we call an armed guard? (6)

10 Name the 20th letters in some alphabets. (8)

11 What is action carried on aside while the main action proceeds? (6)

14 What is a bell tower attached to a church? (6)

17 To give positive or negative status, is to do what? (8)

18 Who won the Dally-M Award in 2010, Todd ...? (6)

19 To reduce a building to ruins, is to do what to it? (8)

20 What do we call people who act on behalf of others? (6)

21 Name the process of writing words for songs. (8)

1 Name a soft woven fabric, made from wool. (7)

2 What describes spectacles having two lenses? (7)

3 Which term designates 100 years? (7)

4 What is a salt of hydrobromic acid? (7)

5 To say, or write is an easy, continuous way, is to do what? (4,3)

6 What is a general pardon for offences against a government? (7)

11 Which expression describes a two-footed animal? (7)

12 Australian banknotes are made of which material? (7)

13 Name a fabric, such as orlon. (7)

14 Name an English orchestral conductor, Sir Thomas ... (7)

15 To have gained knowledge by study, is to have become what? (7)

16 Name those who exercise ruling power in kingdoms. (7)

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT

TRICKS AND TREATS OF COVID GRANTS

It's tax time and Derek was in touch to say he was unsure about how to claim covid monies and whether there were any other useful things he needed to know to complete his company tax returns.

I told him that covid grants were paid out this year and needed to be checked to determine their status for tax purposes.

"I note that your company received the ACT government’s COVID-19 business support grant," I said.

"This grant is classified as non-assessable, non-exempt income so it's not included as income in your tax return and is not subject to income tax provided that it remains within the company. You will see it in your company’s balance sheet as a reserve.

"However, when you want to take it out of your company, you either have to distribute it as a dividend or as salary to the director/s. This has the impact of making it taxable in the hands of the recipients at that time. So effectively it is not taxable in the year that it is received but income tax may be paid on it later. This grant is also exempt from GST as it is not in the nature of a supply as defined in the legislation.”

Derek also received reimbursements under the small-business hardship scheme.

"These were not declared as non-assessable non-exempt income," I advised him. "Therefore they need to be included in your taxable income.”

Derek said sorting through this was a bit more complex than he thought it would be.

I said: “Then there is the question of covid tests for your employees. These are now deductible both to employers, if they pay for them, and to employees, similarly provided that they are a requirement for work purposes and they were all used to determine your employees’ suitability for work that day.”

I then offered Derek some advice on a couple of useful things for future years.

"Firstly, temporary full expensing has been extended to June 30, 2023, which means any items of plant and equipment, including motor vehicles, that you buy for your business in the next year will be written off in full, which will certainly minimise any tax that you have to pay while your business is recovering from the effects of the covid epidemic," I said.

"However, the downside is that when you sell the items, all sale proceeds will be fully accessable. As you are starting to get back on your feet, I think it would be a good idea for you to include purchase of new assets into your business plan for the next year.

“The other good thing is that the tax rate for small companies like yours, known as base rate entities, has been reduced to 25 per cent effective for the tax year 2021-2022. So, if your company does have to pay any tax, it will be at this lower rate.

“I should also remind you that the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has again recommended that tax returns are not lodged too early so that all required information has been received by the ATO.

"If you lodge early and the ATO subsequently receives information that means the lodged return is incorrect, you will be contacted and asked to amend your return. This could possibly incur penalties, so be wary if you do lodge early.”

Derek said: “Thanks, Gail. All duly noted.”

If you require any information on your income tax returns or the COVID requirements contact the friendly team at Gail Freeman & Co on 6295 2844.

Disclaimer

This column contains general advice, please do not rely on it. If you require specific