22 December 2022 - 04 January 2023

From the editor

Once a year, most of the CW team – full- and part-timers and casual employees – gather at our annual Xmas party. It’s a time to let our hair down a tad, enjoy one another’s company outside of work, laugh at the boss’s jokes, and reflect on the ebbs and flows of the past year. Thanks to everyone – our team members, advertisers and you, dear readers – who has contributed to CW’s continuing mission to share local news and information in print and online, for your support.

Also at this time of year, we present our annual swimsuit edition, this time featuring the beautiful Phillyda from Victoria’s Models. Mother Nature bestowed upon us the most perfect early summer day for our fashion shoot, lakeside at Lotus Bay. Thanks to Peter from the Traditional Boat Squadron, and his son Felix, who helped us handle their graceful rowing boat, Njord. Thanks also to our photographer, Kerrie, for capturing these lovely shots and our fashion editor, Anja, for styling the looks. We hope you enjoy the images and looks as much as we enjoy bringing them to you. Flip to The Look (pages 31-43) for more.

Reasons to be grateful this past week include fun at the work Xmas bash, catch-ups with relatives and friends, gardening, Canberra’s beautiful birdlife and nature reserves, and family birthday celebrations. Stay safe over the festive season. See you next year!

on the cover

Our cover model, Phillyda of Victoria’s Models, wears pieces styled by CW fashion editor, Anja de Rozario. Photos by Kerrie Brewer. Njord courtesy of Peter Ottesen, Traditional Boat Squadron. Shot on location at Lotus Bay, Yarralumla. For details, flip to The Look, page 31.

Canberra Vinnies open to offset donation dumping

‘Tis the season when Vinnies Canberra is expanding their hours to give locals a chance to get on Santa’s nice list by donating quality, preloved items.

On Tuesday 27 December, Vinnies Tuggeranong, Belconnen, Gungahlin, and Dickson will all be open for standard business hours.

Lindsay Rae, Director of Commercial Operations at Vinnies Canberra/Goulburn, says that this is to offset donation dumping while the stores are closed for the Christmas public holidays.

Despite very few Vinnies seeing a dumping problem any other time of year, it can accumulate after Christmas due to the huge volume of donations, according to Mr Rae.

“Where possible, we would appreciate it if people can hang onto their donations until midweek or the following week, when things are a little slower,” he says.

“Though some people may be well meaning, by leaving their donations outside our shops they are unusable by morning and end up at the tip.”

He says that when bags of

donations are left out over the usual shut-down period, they inevitably get picked through, with the unwanted goods left on the pavement.

“It is such a waste. We then have to get volunteers to come in early before we open to clean up the mess. Then we have to pay for it to go to the tip.”

Last November, Vinnies Canberra’s waste bill was more than $30,000, up 2.5 times since November 2019, prior to the pandemic. Mr Rae confirmed that this was mostly attributed to textile waste.

Ever since the ACT government reduced numbers of clothing charity bins in 2020, the volume of donations seen instore has increased tremendously.

However, Mr Rae explains he was happy to see the bins go, as they encouraged “offloading” of items that are well beyond the point of reuse, hence why Vinnies got rid of their own bins 15 years ago.

“Removing the other donation bins during COVID-19 has,

however, put a lot more pressure on our staff.”

More unusable items are also now being donated instore. “As a general rule of thumb, if you won’t give it to a mate, then please don’t donate it to an op shop.”

If in doubt, ask a volunteer instore or check out vinnies.org.

‘Always a need’ for volunteers in Canberra

Acting CEO of Volunteering ACT Susan Helyar says there’s more than one way to volunteer and that not having an abundance of time shouldn’t be a barrier.

“There’s always a need for people to join organisations and contribute through volunteering, and volunteer organisations are always open to new people coming along and learning about what’s needed and building skills and knowledge to contribute,” Ms Helyar says.

“It makes a massive contribution, from everything to social welfare, sports, cultural institutions – and the emergency services from the extreme weather events from this year has been important work.”

You can build new skills, social connections, knowledge base, and open your eyes to some lives and circumstances that you may not have been otherwise exposed to, she says.

Volunteering ACT’s goal for the year has been focusing on improving the diversity of people who connect to volunteering and improving the ability of organisations to be inclusive.

Ms Helyar says it’s been “really heartening” to see the influx of diverse people working in many different organisations and being recognised as nominees and recipients of awards.

The 2022 Volunteering ACT

Awards held earlier this month illustrated the increased diversity within the sector.

The recipient of Volunteering ACT’s 2022 Volunteer of the Year was Deborah Martin. Ms Helyar says Ms Martin’s decades-long contribution to reducing the risk of First Nation peoples having contact with the justice system and in the child protection space made her more than worthy of the acknowledgement.

The Volunteering ACT Award winners for 2022 are: Volunteer Leadership Award – John Butcher from Oakey Hill ParkCare Group; Innovation Award – Share the Dignity, ACT Team; Inclusion Award

au/page/Donate/Donate_Goods/ “Donations are valuable to us, they are the main source of funding that we use to pay for the essentials we supply to those most in need in our community,” says Mr Rae.

- Anja de Rozario

– Chris Van Reyk from Community Services #1; COVID-19 Relief and Resilience Award – ACT State Emergency Service Volunteers; Senior Volunteer of the Year Award – Angela Brown from Australia’s Consumer Advisory Committee; Junior Volunteer of the Year Award –Alexandra Banks from Roundabout Canberra; Volunteer Team of the Year Award – Indigenous Reading Project, Engagement Team.

If you’re thinking about becoming a volunteer in Canberra, Ms Helyar recommends checking out the Volunteering ACT website, which lists vacancies within the community.

- Abbey Halter

The Dickson Vinnies team is ready to accept your donations post-Christmas on Tuesday 27 December.

‘Go Local First’ where possible this summer

It’s been another massive year in the capital and I know Canberrans are looking forward to a wellearned break this Christmas season.

While the impacts of natural disasters, economic shock from the war in Ukraine and the pandemic continue, 2022 has been a busy year of rebuilding and getting back on track.

The year in Australian politics has been no different – with the election campaign, a change of government, and the Albanese Labor Government’s determination to act swiftly in the interest of the nation and not waste a day in government.

In just seven months, Labor has already legislated territory rights, climate action, a National Anti-Corruption Commission, made childhood education and medicines cheaper, reformed aged care, extended paid parental leave, free TAFE, and introduced paid family and domestic violence leave.

We have been working hard to provide cost of living relief and some buffer from the international economic fallout from Russia’s war in Ukraine and domestic inflation pressures from the impact of

flooding across the east coast.

For those Canberrans who are working over Christmas, I sincerely thank you and appreciate the sacrifice you and your family are making for our community.

If you’re in a spending mood, it’s also important to remember our small and local businesses –whether at home in the capital or travelling for a summer break. Small businesses are the engine room of our community, employing nearly half of Australians and contributing a third of the national GDP. These small businesses have had a horror run over recent years and it’s important that we support them by deciding to ‘Go Local First’ where possible this summer.

Many thought they had weathered the storm after bushfires, lockdowns and supply chain issues. But inflation, interest rate rises, and workforce shortages have continued to hit their bottom line. Shoppers going local will make all the difference to the health of small business this summer.

We’ve been lucky in the ACT and our local economy has bounced back strongly, but the recovery is not complete nor a certainty.

It’s also important to be patient with staff during a hectic and, at times, stressful period. Businesses might be short-staffed and those working are doing their best under trying circumstances. Bad and abusive behaviour towards staff is unacceptable and should not be tolerated. Let’s all share some Christmas spirit!

Many Canberrans are doing it tough this Christmas, too. Organisations that provide food relief and emergency assistance report that the need for support is significantly higher this year, including from people who wouldn’t usually require assistance, such as those who are working but struggling to make ends meet. For example, demand for Christmas hampers from Community Services #1 in Narrabundah is double the usual number this year.

If you can, please support these great organisations to help fellow Canberrans with a donation of money, food or a gift for a giving tree –everyone deserves a special Christmas.

I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. May 2023 continue the recovery and be peaceful and prosperous.

Pets as presents?

Not the best idea, says RSPCA ACT

Are you thinking that an adorable ball of fur would make the perfect present under the Christmas tree this year? The RSPCA ACT says gifting yourself a fluffy, feathered, or scaley friend can be okay if you are ready for a new family member, but strongly advises against choosing one for friends or relatives.

“Please don’t. It’s not a great surprise; it’s a terrible surprise,” says RSPCA ACT CEO Michelle Robertson. “We don’t recommend

that you gift a pet to somebody because it’s a massive commitment. That person needs to want a pet.”

Ms Robertson says the RSPCA has a very particular process when matching an animal to its future owner; they want to create bonds to last the duration of your pet’s life.

When choosing an animal, prospective owners have to take into account their lifestyle, home environment, preferences, and finances, she says.

“You can’t give somebody a Great

Dane if they don’t have the physical space or financial means to look after a giant breed dog. It’s not a decision to take lightly.”

If your friend or relative has shown interest in getting a pet, Ms Robertson says that you could talk to them and ask how they would feel if you were to get them a pet. She recommends asking about their preferences and requirements or, even better, getting them an RSPCA gift card so they can choose their own pet to adopt.

“We want that animal to stay with that person forever and if you just lump on your friend a surprise puppy, they might really like the puppy because puppies are cute, and kittens are cute. But if they didn’t really want that puppy, it’s a massive commitment. You must want that or else it’s a terrible idea,” she says.

Understanding not everyone wants to adopt, as they may be after a specific breed, she implores these people to ensure they are purchasing from reputable breeders.

Ms Robertson says a lot of people won’t know what to look for in a reputable breeder, just as

she didn’t long ago when she bought home her first animals. It is important to do research, make sure the breeder has all the right registrations and licences, and that you have seen the environment that the parent animals are living in. She says some of the identifiers include the way the breeder interacts with you in the process, including not pressing you for money, and being transparent at every step.

“A reputable breeder will have all of the paperwork, they will insist that you come and actually visit them because they want to make sure that you’re okay as well because they genuinely care about their animals.”

Ms Robertson says staff and volunteers at RSPCA ACT deeply care for all the animals they look after, with 230 currently being helped, including 100 animals on their surrender list. If you are considering a new family member, she urges everyone to consider adoption.

To support the animals in care at RSPCA ACT, you can become a ‘Guardian Angel’ this Christmas by donating online at rspca-act.org.au

- Jessica Cordwell

A beautiful bundle of kittens may look great under the tree, but RSPCA ACT says it is best not to gift someone else a pet. Photo: Kerrie Brewer.

Blumers handle the claims, so you can focus on

recovery

From stacking it on uneven pavement, to slipping on a banana peel at the supermarket, a public liability case can come seemingly out of nowhere. Should it ever happen to you, it’s best to know the do’s and don’ts.

Solicitors at Blumers Personal Injury Lawyers, Alex Rigon and Talia Gedik, share the essentials you need to know about public liability.

“Public liability claims are essentially when someone gets injured due to someone else’s negligence,” says Talia.

“It applies to those personal injury cases that don’t neatly fall into worker’s compensation, medical negligence, or motor accidents.” Although, she notes, all three can have public liability aspects.

Despite the name, public liability isn’t necessarily limited to people getting injured in public places.

“We’ve had cases where renters have been injured in their homes, and had a public liability claim against those who built the faulty steps,” explains Talia.

Like most personal injury claims, public liability can be a complex and lengthy process. “Once notified, the respondent has to hand over certain documents that can provide evidence that someone was negligent.

“For example, in a slip and fall at a supermarket, we might get CCTV footage and cleaning records.

“As lawyers, we might not necessarily know whether you have a case or not until we see those records,” says Talia.

The Do’s and Don’ts

Do seek medical attention immediately.

“Talk to your doctor, get the treatment you need. That should happen whether you’ve got a claim or not,” says Alex. “We’ll handle the claims, so you can focus on recovery.”

Do record early evidence.

“If you’re injured in a shopping centre, report it to store management. If you’re injured on a pavement, report it to Access Canberra. That way there’s an early record of your injury,” says Talia.

“In a public liability claim, taking photos is a good thing to do: where it happened, why it happened.

“If you tripped on a paver, then it’s good to get measurements of the di erence in the pavement. Because you might trip one day, then find they’ve fixed it the next day.

Don’t wait too long.

“In the ACT, you’ve got nine months from the date of your injury to notify the potential respondent that you may have a claim against them,” advises Alex. “Four months if you have lawyer.

“Then you have three years from the day to commence court proceedings.”

“It’s important not to wait too long, especially because things can change so quickly,” says Talia. “It’s good to have someone get in there early to see how the location was at the time you were injured.”

FAQs

How much is my claim worth?

Alex says, “In most cases it’s far too early to tell when people initially come in, there’s a lot of water to flow under the bridge first.”

“One thing that makes [Public Liability] di erent to other claims is that no one’s going to pay for your treatment or wages along the way, which can be done in a workers compensation or motor accident claim,” says Talia.

“The treatment comes out of pocket. Then, if you have a successful claim, it gets called back at the end.”

“What you’re entitled to claim is the cost of past and future treatment, economic loss, and domestic assistance, as well as general damages,” says Alex.

Who to sue?

“This is where it can get more tricky than other cases,” Talia says. “In workers compensation, you know who your employer is, and in medical negligence, you know who the medical professional is. But in public liability, you’ve got to work out who’s responsible for what.

“Quite frequently, there’s more than one defendant. If you tripped and fell at the supermarket because the roof was leaking, then you could look to the supermarket itself, but then also who owns that centre and who’s responsible for the roof.”

Is making a claim worth it?

“In most cases, the client would be going through treatment and missing work regardless of whether they have a claim or not.

“Whether or not someone wants to make a claim is a personal decision, as it’s not necessarily a quick process, but it is a way for people to recuperate their losses,” says Talia.

At Blumers, there’s nothing to pay along the way.

“If, once we get those records, we don’t think there’s a case, then the client won’t be charged,” she says.

“If there is a case, then we pay for all disbursements throughout their claim.”

“At the very least, many people just want to know what their rights are, whether they’re in the time limit, and what they should do next,” adds Alex.

“In which case, calling Blumers can give you a better idea of where you’re at.

“It doesn’t hurt to make a call.”

Find out more at blumers.com.au

Level 12, 15 London Circuit Canberra City ACT 2601

Mon – Fri 8:30am – 5:00pm blumers.com.au blumers@blumers.com.au (02) 6208 2600

Talia Gedik (left) and Alex Rigon at Blumers Personal Injury Lawyers are experts in the field of ACT public liability law.

Slabs for Heroes help families in need this Christmas

Families in need will be able to go on an adventure these holidays –trips to zoos, the movies, and fun parks; meals at restaurants – thanks to the charity Slabs for Heroes and local businesses. The community can help by donating fuel vouchers.

“Previously, we’ve done pretty presents for kids, but presents are supported fairly well through lots of the other charitable organisations,” Slabs for Heroes’ Roseanne Howes said. “We decided that we’d do something a little bit different to bring the family together and give them an outing together, so they can enjoy a day out, and maybe have a meal somewhere, as well.

“You know what it’s like with kids during the holidays: you’re generally pulling your hair out, and when money is tight, going somewhere isn’t normally on the list of priorities.”

At least 25 families will receive the Family Xmas Adventure Packs, as well as food, Ms Howes said.

Slabs for Heroes held two food drives at the Casey shopping centre and Coles Amaroo. Lots of items were donated, Ms Howes said: both staples and Christmas

items. The charity packed them into boxes decorated by the children at Ngunnawal Primary School, then approached local businesses to see whether they could support the Adventure Packs.

More than 20 local businesses obliged. The National Zoo and Aquarium, Hoyts Belconnen, Canberra Aqua Park, Canberra Reptile Zoo, the National Dinosaur Museum, and Zone 3 all provided family passes and tickets.

Spice Affair Indian Cuisine and Noi Noi Vietnamese Restaurant (Casey); the George Harcourt Inn (Nicholls); Kynefin Café, 1882 Hall, Daughters at Hall; Southern Seoul Casey, Bombay Bites (Belconnen), Delhi to Canberra (Melba); and The District – Crace provided dining vouchers.

Canberra Centre, Revolution CD, and Idaisy’s Nails and Spa also provided vouchers.

The public can help Slabs for Heroes’ good work by buying fuel vouchers and groceries. You can send Slabs for Heroes a private message through its Facebook page; Ms Howes will contact you.

- Nicholas Fuller

TO THE EDITOR

Hard to believe that [Canberra Weekly] could prepare a three-page ‘Meet the Chief’ article (8 December 2022, p4) featuring Chief Minister Andrew Barr and avoid discussing the issue that Canberrans are most concerned about. I speak, of course, of the tram from Civic to Woden. While we still don’t know the cost (because Barr hasn’t divulged it), estimates currently run into the

billions of dollars. Contrary to the obsequious ‘Meet the Chief’ article, Barr’s legacy to the ACT will be an extravagant and obsolete transport network and rundown health and education sectors. Hopefully, the NCA will be able to delay the tram project long enough for the Liberals to can it if after winning the 2024 election.

- C Williams, Forrest

Want to share your opinion?

Email news@canberraweekly.com.au with ‘To the editor’ in the subject field; include your full name, phone number, street address (NFP) and suburb. Keep letters to 250 words maximum. Note, letters may be shortened if space restrictions dictate.

Good

by Elizabeth Lee to can the tram

Well, as John Lennon once said: “And so this is Christmas” – and it’s been some year in Australian politics. The new federal government has done well in foreign affairs and defence, to date (especially in the South Pacific), but in recent weeks has put some measures in place in a hasty manner which could come back to bite them . (Helpful hint, Albo and Co.: the best way to ease energy problems and drop prices is to release more gas into the market, with priority going to Australia, not overseas consumers first.)

Locally, it was good to see the Liberal Opposition come out with a policy to stop Stage Two of the tram. I have railed against this project for some time now. There seems to be no business case for it, and it has been draining money from more essential areas like the hospital (worst emergency waiting times for the fifth year in a row now); police (lowest number of police per head of population in Australia); and schools (teacher shortages, declining standards, and increased violence). The $3 billion saved from the tram would help turn this quickly around.

Few people want to see Stage Two proceed, and so it’s a good call by the Opposition, but they need to prosecute it with vigour between now and the election. They need to make their case, and keep making it. They need to make several other announcements that differentiate them from the Green/Labor government. Governing the Territory is largely about the efficient delivery of local services. People want their hospitals and schools to run properly, they want an urban environment that is cared for, and they want their concerns listened to and acted upon.

Elizabeth Lee and her team are getting some traction now, and need to aggressively keep up the pressure in the media. That’s easier said than done, but even a somewhat biased media can’t ignore a story totally if it’s newsworthy enough.

She has some good natural media performers in her team, too, and I’m quite impressed with the lively Leanne Castley (health), the effervescent Mark Parton (housing

and transport), and the experienced and professional Jeremy Hanson. The rest seem to be hardworking members, if not quite so visible in terms of media hits.

If Canberra voters are concerned about ideology – well, they’ve come to the wrong place – that’s much more relevant federally. There is not much ideology in rates, potholes, rubbish collection, or even in delivering a good, functioning hospital system. It will be 23 years of Labor/Green government in 2024. It’s about time there was a change, and there is nothing scary about Elizabeth Lee. Another four years of Messrs Barr, Rattenbury, Steele, and Gentleman is somewhat scary, but if people put them back in, they have only themselves to blame, and it’s no use whingeing after the event. As an old acquaintance of mine once said in 1972: “It’s time.”

Merry Christmas to you all. Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Canberra Weekly

CREATING VALUE CONNECTING COMMUNITIES

Village Display Home, South Jerra NSW

‘Humble’ Canberra volunteer raises over $400,000 for cancer patients

When Leesa Ffrench’s brother in-law was battling cancer, she witnessed firsthand the ripple effect of the disease, which impacts many more lives beyond the patient.

Affected by the experience, the 44-year-old Canberra woman decided to make a difference, so she began volunteering for Rise Above – Capital Region Cancer Relief, a charity that financially assists cancer patients in the Canberra region.

Rise Above assists with food, fuel vouchers, electricity bills, medication, supplements, fertility, counselling … whatever the family needs, they’re there to help.

Leesa’s passion for volunteering was recognised at the recent

Volunteering ACT Awards 2022, winning the Canberra’s Choice Award as voted by the community.

“Very, very humbled”, her acknowledgement was well deserved as she raised over $400,000 for local patients and their families in the past year.

“It was amazing to receive the award, get the recognition and get the Rise Above name out there as well, which is what it’s all about,” Leesa told CW.

You can find Leesa selling raffle tickets, shaking buckets, and cooking barbecues to raise funds. During the Christmas season, she helps host a lunch and organise hampers for families.

“They say even just getting that

LOVE DOGS?

• Help a lovely dog to have a happy holiday in your home when their owner is away.

• Enjoy the company of your new doggy friend and have the satisfaction of knowing they are having a great time too.

• You tell us the size and breed of dog you would like to mind and how often - regularly or occasionally.

• You’ll be rewarded by a wagging tail and a daily allowance.

ham allows them to put a nice Christmas lunch on … let’s face it, hams are expensive,” she says. “And that’s all because of the community fundraising and people being so generous.”

Per patient, the charity needs between $600,000 to $700,000 to assist them and their family each year.

“My sister had to give up work to be able to care for [her husband], so then there’s no income coming in … when we hand out a voucher for fuel or food, that puts food on their table,” Leesa explains.

“Christmas time, we give hampers that’s got your ham and all the treats for Christmas, and we do a toy drive for the children so the children don’t miss out because the family’s got no income coming in.”

Rise Above are always looking for more volunteers, Leesa says, and even just a couple of hours a week can make a difference.

“For instance, on the weekend we were at the Handmade Markets, so I was there for a three-hour stint. Just knowing that every coin that went in that bucket you’re helping someone, and at the end of the day, I could have been sitting at home doing nothing, whereas you’re out there helping someone less fortunate than yourself.

“It’s just a good feeling knowing that you’ve done something that day that’s productive and helpful.”

Rise Above have seen patient numbers increase by 24 per cent over the last six months, with the financial support required increasing accordingly. On average, the charity registers 25 new patients per month and has around 300 families requiring

help.

If you’re not able to donate financially, Leesa says there’s plenty of ways to get involved with Rise Above.

“Just putting our name out there, sharing our posts on social media pages. Because the name’s out there, people are getting more involved and the more people we can get involved, the more money we can raise,” Leesa says.

“Our money doesn’t go to research; our money goes to people. So, in that respect, it’s good because you might donate to another company, another sort of community, and 50 per cent of it might go to research and 50 per cent might go to the actual person, whereas ours all goes to the actual person.”

Leesa smiles as she reveals the satisfaction she feels while spending time volunteering is a “great feeling”.

If you have a couple of hours to give, she says, “come on board; Rise Above would love to have you”.

- Abbey Halter

Treasurer and volunteer at Rise Above, Leesa Ffrench (left), was awarded the Canberra’s Choice Award at the 2022 Volunteering ACT Awards by 2021 Young Volunteer of the Year, Ben Walker.

Extended Trading Hours

Enjoy more time for your holiday shopping with extended hours.

From Mon 19 Dec to Fri 23 Dec. See website for details

It’s all happening

Charity Gift Wrapping

Pack more into your day by letting someone else wrap your gifts.

‘Gold Coin Donation’ wrapping service in partnership with the Lion’s Club of CanberraKambah.

Until Sat 24 Dec Centre Court

The shopping centre experience is thriving at South.Point, so if you haven’t visited us recently, now’s the time.

Christmas and New Year messages

Carrie-Ann Leeson CEO of Lifeline Canberra

I would like to wish the Canberra community a safe and meaningful Christmas season.

Canberrans have been hit hard by the years gone by, and individuals continue to experience challenges at work, in relationships, and with their health. It is my hope that, next year, we all find joy and peace in what we are doing, the choices we make, and continue to connect with ourselves and others to strengthen this incredible community.

The end of a year always brings a period of reflection. For so many,

it is a joyous time, filled with friends and family; but, for others, it can be a time of stress, pain, and isolation. It is so important, irrespective of your situation, to remain kind to yourself and others, maintain your boundaries, and continue to work on wellness. Please always remember that there is support available, always, at Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Thank you to every one of our incredible volunteers and supporters. None of us can imagine a world without Lifeline in it, and it brings me so much comfort to know we are surrounded by earth angels.

On behalf of the ACT Government, I wish Canberrans a great Christmas and a happy New Year.

It has been another challenging year; if you are getting a break –rest up and spend time with family and friends.

Think of those in our community who may not have family and friends around, or who just need that little extra support.

This summer in Canberra, there is a lot to see and do: the Cressida Campbell exhibition is on at the National Gallery of Australia, Feared and Revered

Shane Rattenbury Leader of the ACT Greens

As 2022 comes to a close, I’d like to acknowledge that it’s been a hard year for many. Adjusting to a new way of life with COVID has been a global challenge, but the impacts are felt locally and individually. Many Australians have been affected by devastating floods, and our hearts go out to those around the world who have been impacted by the tragic war in the Ukraine.

I would like to take this opportunity to also reflect on some of the positives from the year and, in particular, share with you a number of ACT Greens policies and commitments that have been realised this year. These achievements reflect the critical role the six ACT Greens MLAs play in our shared Government and the progressive vision we have for Canberra.

The ACT now has a permanent fixed pill testing site up and running, an important health intervention, and something the ACT Greens have been championing for many years.

We have also established a roadmap to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 – a vital change to remove children from the criminal justice system.

As part of our ongoing climate change leadership, we have set targets to phase out internal

at the National Museum of Australia. There are also a lot of old favourites plus new restaurants and cafés to check out all over Canberra.

In what is becoming a New Year’s Eve tradition for the nation’s capital, Canberrans and visitors are invited to picnic along the foreshore of Lake Burley Griffin from 6pm, enjoy the community atmosphere with friends and family, and bring in the New Year with fireworks displays at 9pm and 12am.

Have a happy and safe summer!

combustion engines and introduced generous incentives to promote the uptake of electric vehicles. And it’s working – EV sales have really taken off in recent months.

We’ve announced the phase out of fossil fuel gas in the ACT and outlined a plan to electrify the city. This nation-leading work is crucial to reaching zero net emissions, tackling climate change, and making the ACT an exemplar sustainable city.

We’re driving more nationleading reforms to strengthen protections for renters by ending “no-cause evictions” and setting new minimum standards for energy efficiency in rental properties. Tenants will have better security, more comfortable and safe housing, as well as energy bill relief.

We have driven updates to the national construction code –including minimum accessibility standards for all new homes and 7-star energy efficiency standards for all new homes built from October 2023.

I am really proud of the work we’re doing as Greens in Government, and we will deliver even more for the Canberra community in 2023. On behalf of the ACT Greens team in the Assembly, I wish all of your readers a safe and happy festive season

ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr

Senator David Pocock

It has been such a privilege serving the community I love this year as the ACT’s first independent senator.

I want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank-you to everyone who has engaged with me since the election. It is so important for me to be hearing directly from you – both the good and the bad – so I can do the best job possible representing you in federal parliament.

It’s been a huge first six months that has delivered some big wins for the ACT, with the passage of some massive reforms, from legislating our first ever national emissions reduction target and National AntiCorruption Commission, to industrial relations and aged care reform, as well as finally restoring territory rights. The righting of that 25-yearold injustice showed what is possible when our community comes together and doesn’t give up.

Next year promises to be just as big with some really important housing legislation kicking off the

parliamentary year followed by big debates on reforming our federal environmental laws, the management of water, and a host of other issues.

In the run up to the next federal budget in May, I will keep making the case for more investment in the ACT to make up for more than a decade of neglect. Priorities must include sustainable funding for our national cultural institutions and investment in the long-term renewal of key assets like the convention centre and stadium as part of a city partnership deal.

I know cost-of-living and access to health services are two other front of mind issues for us here in the ACT, and I will be focusing on these for the benefit of our community.

I wish everyone a happy and, most importantly, a safe festive season, and pay tribute to the people who will be working through this period looking out for and after us, whether that’s in retail, hospitality, health, emergency or other frontline services. Thank you, and here’s to a cracking 2023.

“Dad isn’t ready for aged care”

Dr Emma Campbell CEO of the ACT Council of Social Service (ACTCOSS)

The festive season should be a time of celebration, relaxation, and enjoyment. However, the 38,000 Canberrans living below the poverty line – including more than 9,000 children – will not be afforded this luxury.

As many households enjoy the company of family and friends, others will reach out to Canberra’s community organisations to receive vital support to avoid hunger or homelessness.

Over the past 12 months, the ACT’s community organisations have seen a significant demand for support increase as households have struggled to stretch their declining budgets to cover the rising costs of the basics.

Canberra remains the most expensive capital city to rent a

house or a unit, and the ACT has the highest rate of rental stress among low-income private renters.

Let’s make 2023 a year where we deliver for those who have the least. We are calling on the Australian Government to raise the rate of working age payments to at least $70 a day and for all governments to work together to finally fix the ACT’s housing crisis.

And while the new year will undoubtedly bring change, ACTCOSS will remain firm in its advocacy for Canberrans on low incomes and people who face disadvantage.

ACTCOSS thanks the Canberra community for its ongoing support, and wishes everyone a safe and happy Christmas and new year.

CW also contacted the office of ACT Opposition Leader, Elizabeth Lee, to provide a message, however the response was not received prior to print deadline.

Dad

Then we found The Grange Deakin Serviced Apartments. After a little encouragement Dad moved in and within days couldn’t stop thanking me.

Dad has his own apartment, he’s surrounded by company and regular social activities. The household chores are no longer a burden, the apartment is cleaned, and the linen changed weekly. Plus the pressure of the building maintenance is gone. Dad’s now out doing things he loves again.

I know Dad gets breakfast delivered in the morning and two home cooked meals. For added peace of mind there is someone there 24 hours a day in case of an emergency. The Grange isn’t aged care, but I know when the time comes, I can organise external community home care support to help Dad stay independent longer.

Now when we talk it’s without the worry and nagging. Dad couldn’t be happier.

was lonely in the house by himself. He was still independent but needed a little domestic help.

Weird Years, art to invoke change to mental health approach in ACT

Love, family, friendship, turmoil, and a life lost too soon are all themes explored in Weird Years, on at Smith’s Alternative until late January. The paintings created by local artist Ravi Madan tell his story, one that his parents are hoping will help reshape the way we approach mental health care in the ACT.

Ravi was only 23 years old when he took his own life in April 2021 after a struggle with mental illness and spending time in and out of care facilities. Now, his parents are fighting to change how families and carers are treated during mental health episodes, so no other family has to lose their child.

The talented young artist is remembered as an old soul who was charming, funny, intelligent, handsome, and a bit cheeky.

“He would ask questions; in fact, at a Catholic primary school he questioned the bishop, he questioned him on a point of order,” smiles Leigh Watson, Ravi’s mother.

Ravi’s father, Ashish Madan, and Leigh have been campaigning since they lost their son. While they appreciate the care Ravi received, they believe that more could have been done to help support not only Ravi, but to guide them as parents on how to support their child.

Self-taught, Ravi showed an interest in art from an early age. Leigh recalls when she was a stay-athome mum, her go-to activities for Ravi and his

sister were creative endeavours.

Hindsight being 20/20, Ravi’s parents say they try not to obsess over when he first showed signs of potential mental illness, thinking that he was going through teenage angst, and that he would come into his own when he went to university. They say this strategy worked well during his first year living on campus.

“He was a different person; he was his own person, and we didn’t want to spoil that by highlighting it or by getting him a counsellor. But I guess his first suicide attempt was when it was really clear to us,” says Leigh.

Throughout the two-and-a-half-year struggle, Ravi stayed in mental health units at both public and private facilities. Leigh believes that there wasn’t a lot of effort put into reaching a diagnosis or a succinct treatment plan. She says they were never involved as parents; not one person asked about Ravi’s homelife, childhood, or when he started to show signs that something wasn’t right.

“It seems the first person who ever saw him put with a question borderline personality disorder, not with an actual question mark just with the way it was worded. Then ever since then, people have just read that and taken it as read,” Leigh says.

But for them it wasn’t the diagnosis that was important, it was the prognosis. How could they

Ravi Madan’s work depicted life around him, including friends, family, and his beloved cat.

better help their son when he returned home, what does his future look like, and what steps should they be taking to ensure Ravi would be safe?

However, as their son was over the age of 18, no one could talk with them about his mental state without Ravi’s permission, something he didn’t give.

“Once you are 18, the system doesn’t seem to want to talk to the carers; that’s where there is a big gap in which they will not talk to you. If you ring them up and say what is the diagnosis, prognosis, they can’t talk to you about it,” Ashish says.

The concerned parents kept fighting for someone to talk to them about what was going on in their son’s life, someone to explain it to them and to help them. The couple say all these calls fell on deaf ears. Eventually, a much sought-after meeting with a psychiatrist treating Ravi still did not provide them with the information they were seeking that could help them support their child.

The couple are recommending that the system recognises this gap and takes steps to involve the carers, the people who will be living with and interacting with the patient. They have outlined recommendations they believe could help other families, including a family peer support program following an attempted suicide. A support worker would ensure the family is provided with relevant information in a format they could understand, and guidance on how to navigate the mental health system.

“We are looking for positive change to the system so that other people don’t actually suffer in their journey to get well. We need to get people on board with what is happening,” says Ashish. See the art of Ravi Madan in Weird Years at Smith’s Alternative until late January; smithsalternative.com or see more of Ravi’s work on Facebook; facebook.com/Ravistribute If this story has raised concerns, help is available. Call or visit the website of Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636). In an emergency, call 000.

Read an extended version at canberraweekly.com.au

Weird Years honours the life of artist Ravi Madan while also advocating for change in the ACT’s approach to mental health care.

Photos Kerrie Brewer

Brindabella Christian College achieves their with 2 students scoring

Highest ATAR results ever, 99.85

Two students at Brindabella Christian College scored 99.85 and a third 99.65 on their ATARs this year. Ten per cent of the school’s Year 12 students scored an ATAR over 99, 28 per cent scored over 95, and 31 per cent scored over 90, with several students scoring just below 90.

Mrs Jones, Principal of Brindabella Christian College said, “We are delighted with this year’s results. These scores are a testament to the dedication and

hard work of our students, the excellent education from their teachers, and the support and encouragement from their parents. We are so proud of all our graduates.”

This year’s graduating cohort included students from non-English speaking backgrounds, who arrived in Australia at the start of Year 11 and Year 12. Mrs Jones congratulated them for not only transitioning to a new country and embracing a new language and culture, but also for doing so well in their final Senior

Secondary studies.

Brindabella Christian College caters for students from ELC through to Year 12 and is known for their excellent academic standards, but this year’s results have shown

their highest scores ever. Well done to these young men and women!

For more information on Brindabella Christian College, visit bcc.act.edu.au

Bereaved by Suicide Support Group

This support group is a partnership between Lifeline Canberra and The Canberra Grief Centre.

The bereaved by suicide support group provides a safe and supportive space for participants to share their common grief experience The group provides a forum for emotional support

It is a closed group meaning you will go through this journey with the same people over a period of 6 sessions

The program is for adults over 18 years of age who are between 3 months and 3 years bereaved

The cost of the program is a one-off donation of $26 to Lifeline Canberra The cost of a life-changing call to 13 11 14

To register your interest please contact: Rosie Phelan@act lifeline org au or call us on 6171 6313

GIVIT donation of the week: Bluey related toys

GIVIT is working with a community organisation in the Capital Region that assists people and families who are experiencing hardship. They are currently assisting a mum with three kids who recently separated from her long-term partner due to family and domestic violence. She is struggling to provide her three children with Christmas presents as she is currently living week to week. Her two-year-old daughter loves Bluey so the organisation is requesting Bluey related toys as a Christmas gift. 100% of donated funds received by GIVIT will be used to purchase these. To donate or fund, visit givit.org.au/whats-needed, search Category: ‘Bluey related toys; Location: ‘ACT’. GIVIT supports more than 400 charities and community groups across the Capital Region by matching your items with people who need them most.

NYE Folk Dance

The Monaro Folk Society’s New Year’s Eve dance will feature a special performance by the Woolshed Hoppers, led by Dave Johnson. Don Richmond, the caller on the night, is considered as one of the best in Australia. On Saturday 31 December 8pm-12.30am at Yarralumla Woolshed, Cotter Road. Tickets at the door, cash only. The entry fee includes unlimited tea, coffee, water and cordial. Please bring a plate of food for a shared supper to be served about 10pm. BYO additional nibbles and drinks. More info: monarofolk. org.au or call/text 0413 295 004.

ANU Classics Museum

Voluntary guides are offering several free events in January. Two public one-hour tours of the museum’s collection of ancient Greek and Roman artefacts on Friday 13 and 27 January 11am. A children’s event exploring the museum, with morning tea on Friday 20 January 10am-12pm. Suitable for ages 8-12, accompanied by an adult or two. Numbers are limited. The museum is a little gem in Canberra’s cultural scene, located in the AD Hope Building, Ellery Crescent, ANU. Email rosjackson4@gmail.com to register or for more information. Free, but donations welcome.

Share your community event. Email news@canberraweekly.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field. Deadline is 10 days prior to Thursday edition date.

SPARK Women in Civil Construction Program

Due to the outstanding success of this program over the past four years, SPARK is pleased to announce it will be delivering another Women in Civil Construction Program in 2023. SPARK in partnership with JobTrainer, Master Builders ACT, Civil Contractors Federation ACT and the Construction Industry Training Council, are proud to deliver this innovative training program to encourage more women to consider a career in the civil construction industry. This program will provide participants with specialised accredited training and employment pathways. Specifically targeting women from the ACT, this program will provide participants with: Seven core units of competency and a pathway into qualification in civil construction; 11084NAT – Asbestos Awareness; CPCWHS1001 –Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry; 10830NAT - Course in Crystalline Silica Exposure Prevention; Provide a range of interesting workshops including resilience, mental health and wellbeing, time management and more; a four-week work placement within the civil sector and potential employment pathways for successful program graduates. This program will commence on Monday 1 May 2023 and run five days a week (Mon-Fri) for 9 weeks. More info: contact Shayla at Ginninderry on 1800 316 900 or email spark@ginninderry.com

HAVE YOU HEARD?

AHEPA supports refugee families

In the lead up to Christmas, the local Australasian Hellenic Educational Progressive Association, aka AHEPA, donated $500 worth of groceries to the Red Cross Humanitarian Settlement Program to support refugee families. The presentation took place at the Hellenic Club in Woden on Wednesday 14 December.

Handmade Canberra

In 2022, attendees at Canberra’s renowned Handmade Markets helped raised over $25,000 for charities such as The Salvation Army, Rise Above Capital Region Cancer Relief, Menslink and Lids4Kids, and donated approximately 520 items to the Salvation Army during the winter market’s blanket drive. More than 550 Australian small businesses were supported through the in-person markets and online directory. The October event introduced Handmade’s first Low Sensory Shopping hour, which is being implemented at all future markets.

what's on  must do  must see

Photo Kerrie Brewer

To all our valued readers, we wish you a

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year

from the team at

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BE A PART OF THE TEAM THAT DELIVERS THE ACT REGION’S LEADING NEWS, COMMUNITY, LIFESTYLE AND REAL ESTATE MAGAZINE.

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Joe Roff, Diane Kargas Bray

Peter Campos, Sue Hart, Adrian Bray

Michael Hopkins, Jo Farrell

Sophie Nicoll, Lisa Buckley

Christine Shaw, Elizabeth Woods, Desmond Woods

Gavan Newland, Peter Flanagan, Tim Fulton, Emmanuel Rodriguez

Fiona O’Donnell, Peter Gordon, Jenelle Kenner

Genevieve Jacobs, Nathalie Maconachie

ABOVE Hands Across Canberra end of year celebration and thank you, Senate Gardens. Photos: Kerrie Brewer

BELOW AHEPA donation to Red Cross Humanitarian Support Program, Hellenic Club, Woden. Photos: Kerrie Brewer.

Elly Padol, Vicky Petsas

Paul Levantis, Benjamin Chapman, Frankie Daglis

Andrew Nolan, Danielle Sweetman, Sophia Notaras

Maria Alexandrou, Paula Katheklakis, Jim Katheklakis, Metaxia Miras, Con Poulos

Beautiful

Prize winner, Matt Curtis, such as his Crumple Vase collection, as the perfect Christmas gift for that someone special. No matter what it is or for whom it is you’re looking for, let us find it for you at Canberra Glassworks. Shop instore Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm. 11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston ACT 2604 Extended trading from 21 to 23 December 9am-5pm. Reopening 5 January 2023.

How to make a classic trifle

At any summer garden party, there’s one classic Aussie dessert that’s guaranteed to keep everyone happy. What goes into your trifle? Cherries? Rum? Beef? Either way, we have you covered for an easy-peasy trifle recipe to start with, and an extra special something to top it o .

WITH TASTE EDITOR, ANJA DE ROZARIO

Easy custard and berry trifle

Serves 6 | Prep 35 mins

For the custard

300ml pure cream

300ml milk

6 egg yolks

2 Tbsp cornflour

1 tsp vanilla bean paste

75g (1/3 cup) caster sugar

For the trifle

2 tsp finely grated orange zest, plus extra zest to serve

9 jam mini rolls, cut into 3cm slices

250g fresh strawberries, hulled, halved

125g fresh blueberries

250g fresh raspberries

2 Tbsp chopped pistachio kernels

300ml thickened cream, whipped

For the custard, combine cream and milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat and bring to just a simmer. Meanwhile, whisk yolks, cornflour, vanilla, and sugar

together in a large heatproof bowl. Gradually whisk in the hot cream mixture until smooth.

Return mixture to cleaned saucepan and place over low heat. Cook, stirring constantly, until custard thickens and thickly coats the back of a spoon.

Serve warm or transfer to a glass bowl and cover surface with plastic wrap (to prevent a skin from forming). Set aside to chill in the fridge.

For the trifle, stir orange zest through the chilled custard.

Layer half the jam roll slices on the base of a 2 litre (8-cup) capacity serving dish, pressing the cut surface of the rolls against the glass. Top with one-third of the custard. Layer three-quarters of the strawberries in the custard, pressing halves against the glass, and scatter with three-quarters of the blueberries. Repeat with another one-third of the custard and remaining jam rolls. Add remaining custard to top of jam rolls.

Top the trifle with dollops of cream. Scatter with raspberries and remaining strawberries and blueberries, pistachios, and extra orange zest. Cover and refrigerate until required.

Cold tip: To allow custard to chill, cook night before needed and refrigerate overnight.

Garnish with … Meringue kisses

Makes 30

200g caster (superfine) sugar

100g egg whites

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Line three baking trays with baking paper. Sprinkle the sugar over one of the trays and bake for 4–5 minutes or until the edges just begin to melt. Reduce the oven temperature to 100°C.

Meanwhile, begin whisking the egg whites on medium speed in an electric mixer fi tted with the whisk attachment. When soft peaks form, take the hot sugar directly from the oven and slowly pour it onto the egg whites. Continue whisking on medium–high speed until a thick, glossy meringue forms.

Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fi tted with a 1.5 cm round or star nozzle. Pipe teardrop peaks of the meringue onto the baking trays.

Bake the meringue kisses for 1 hour. Turn o the oven and allow the meringue kisses to cool in the oven. Store in an airtight container.

Optional steps: Mix it up! Garnish your meringue kisses with a little gold leaf or dust them with freeze-dried raspberry or strawberry powder.

Try experimenting with di erent flavour extracts – my favourite are peppermint and watermelon. Don’t use flavouring oils as they will deflate the meringue. Add the flavouring after you’ve whisked in the hot sugar.

Add some stripes of colouring to give your meringue kisses a bit of personality. Before you put the meringue mixture in your piping bag, dip a toothpick into a gel-based food colouring and run the tip of the toothpick down the inside edge of the bag. This will create a stripe of colour that will transfer onto your meringue kisses as you pipe them.

Image and text from First, Cream the Butter and Sugar by Emelia Jackson, photography by Armelle Habib. Murdoch Books RRP $59.99.

Recipe and image courtesy of Australian Eggs.

Food for thought

The latest in foodie news, events and products.

It’s oh-fish-ial, Snapper & Co in Yarralumla has been named ACT’s Winner for the 2022 Great Australian Fish & Chip Awards. Organised by Seafood Industry Australia (SIA), the country’s best fish & chippers in each state and territory were crowned after close to 60,000 votes from the public were cast across 683 stores. Snapper & Co’s win follows their reopening in October, in which new dining space, The Deck, was launched. When making a day trip upcoast, keep NSW’s winner, Pelican Rocks at Greenwell Point, in mind. New South Welshmen cast the most votes out of any state or territory, meaning Pelican Rocks reeled in the most votes in the entire competition. SIA CEO Veronica Papacosta said the awards highlight the importance of buying fresh, local, Australian seafood. “It’s important to always ask for Aussie seafood; even when you’re buying fish & chips,” she says. “Australian seafood is one of the most sustainable protein sources in the world and our fisheries management is world-class. However, 62 per cent of seafood eaten in Australia is imported, so until the Albanese Government’s Country of Origin Labelling for seafood sold in

foodservice is brought in, it’s important you chat to your server about where your seafood is from,” said Ms Papacosta.

To view the full list of winners, visit fishandchipawards.com.au

Stressed university students might want to add walnuts to their daily diet in the weeks leading up to exams, according to new research from the University of South Australia. A clinical trial of undergraduate students has shown positive effects of walnut consumption on self-reported measures of mental health, including stress and depression, and biomarkers of general health.

The study, published in the journal Nutrients, also suggests that walnuts may counteract the effects of academic stress on the gut microbiota, especially in females.

Lead researchers, PhD student Mauritz Herselman and Associate Professor Larisa Bobrovskaya, say the results add to the growing body of evidence linking walnuts with improved brain and gut health.

Eighty undergrads were split into treatment and control groups and were clinically assessed in three intervals, at the beginning of a 13-week university semester, during the examination period, and two

weeks after the examination period. Those in the treatment group were given walnuts to consume daily for 16 weeks over these three intervals. “We found that those who consumed about half a cup of walnuts every day showed improvements in self-reported mental health indicators,” Mr Herselman says. “Walnut consumers also showed improved metabolic biomarkers and overall sleep quality in the longer term.” Students in the control group reported increased stress and depression levels in the leadup to exams but those in the treatment

group did not. Previous research has shown that walnuts are full of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, as well as melatonin (sleep inducing hormone), polyphenols, folate, and vitamin E, all of which promote a healthy brain and gut. Associate Professor Bobrovskaya expanded on the future of the research. “Due to fewer numbers of males in the study, more research is needed to establish sex-dependent effects of walnuts and academic stress in university students. It’s also possible that a placebo effect might have come into play as this was not a blind study.”

Snapper & Co in Yarralumla have won the Great Australian Fish & Chip Award for the ACT

Walnuts are the new brain food for stressed university students, according to new research.

The ‘Nats are back this summer

Canberra sleepily welcomes in the new year, streets are quiet, and many residents have headed to the coast or interstate. Soon, we’re jolted awake again by the smell of petrol and the revving of engines as the entrants make their way to EPIC for the country’s biggest car festival. To be held from 5 to 8 January, Summernats 35 promises to be the biggest and best festival yet.

For the first time in Summernats’ history, car entries have completed sold out and organisers have had to cap numbers. Summernats co-owner Andy Lopez says there was such strong demand that in September they started thinking they might have a record event on their hands.

After much juggling and number crunching, they decided it would be best to cap the number of cars; having had 2,500 at the event before, they agreed 2,700 would be the limit. There are still spectator tickets available from the website.

“It’s great to have a sold-out event but people still have to be able to enjoy themselves and get around safely,” Lopez says.

He says they are thrilled to have evolved the event to a place where they have to cap entries, as it demonstrates a lot of faith and loyalty in what they are doing. This time they want to deliver an even better experience to their attendees, with one very exciting

announcement.

“The team from Hoonigan in the US, the world’s biggest content creators in the crazy automotive space, are coming to Summernats to film episodes,” Lopez says.

Famous for their gymkhana videos, Lopez has also pitched the idea of doing one here, however, he wants there to be a very Canberran twist – cruising with an electric car.

“Canberra sees itself as the capital of EVs and hopefully that will put it on the map,” he says.

The Braddon Fringe Fest returns after its success last year. Organisers have worked together with the ACT government to provide a fun and safe way for the public to interact with the cars. Once again, the streets of Braddon will be filled with live music as around 250 preselected cars come for a cruise and a bit of a showo . The team also hopes that it will provide an injection of patrons and cash for surrounding businesses.

“Share a bit of the Summernats love around … taking good, well-managed activities out into the city is a positive model for the future,” Lopez says.

This year also boasts the festival’s biggest music line-up. After headliner Jimmy Barnes had to pull out due to a back injury, the team put their heads together.

“Sometimes adversity forces really good change, so we thought we would go nuts with the line-up. On Friday night we’ve got Shannon Noll, Daryl Braithwaite, Diesel and Jon Stevens.”

Saturday night brings the party with Bliss N Eso, Sta ord Brothers and Brooke Evers. Lopez says they are still on the look-out for a local opening act.

Sadly, one important part of the Summernats festival won’t be in attendance this time – founder

Chic Henry, who passed away in April this year. Lopez says there will be both private and public activities happening to commemorate the man who created something that had never been done anywhere before.

“The joyous nature of Summernats is 100 per cent Chic Henry; he created something that is just really unique. It has his DNA through the event, it will always be there,” Lopez says.

Earlier this year the burnout grandstand was o cially named after the founder, something Lopez is grateful to have done while Henry was there to enjoy the event.

Returning for the second year since the pandemic began in 2020, Lopez says it feels like a weight has been lifted not having strict Covid-19 safety guidelines to adhere to. While they are still taking it seriously and mitigating risks where possible, organisers feel they can approach things with a more free-spirted approach this time. One of the benefits of EPIC is that it has plenty of great big open spaces, he says.

“If people want to wear a mask, wear a mask; you can be socially distant or you can get amongst it.”

Lopez is passionate about ensuring that “Summernats curious” people who may have not come before out of fear of its reputation know that times have changed.

“It has had troubles in the past and we have worked really hard and cleaned that up; it has been a real focus for the last few years,” he says.

The change was met with no resistance, as the festival was ready to evolve and grow to meet society’s expectations around safety and respect. Lopez says the festival has always been about the cars, the music, and the good times, and they want it to be something everyone can enjoy.

“It’s really good to shake your world up a bit and Summernats is a great place to do that.”

Check out the cars, music, and good times at Summernats 35, Exhibition Park in Canberra, 5-8 January 2023; summernats.com.au

- Jessica Cordwell

The country’s biggest car festival returns to Exhibition Park in Summernats 35 revs up from 5 to 8 January.

Canberra when Image supplied.

“Sometimes adversity forces really good change, created

That’s art and entertainment

Laughs return with comedy fest

The Canberra Comedy Festival is barrelling its way back to the capital for 10 glorious days in March with its biggest line-up ever.

Spreading the love across different venues from 16 to 26 March, the country’s best comedians will take to the stages, pubs and clubs and try to make us laugh. Award-winning comedy juggernaut and UC alumnus Wil Anderson appears on the roster for the first time, as does Melanie Bracewell in her Canberra solo debut.

The Umbilical Brothers bring their new award-winning show to town while festival favourites Rove McManus, Dave Hughes, and Peter Helliar are just a few included in the incredible line-up. For the full line-up, visit canberracomedyfestival.com.au

25 years of Multicultural Festival 2023 celebrates 25 years of the National Multicultural Festival when it returns to Canberra’s

CBD and Glebe Park on 17-19 February.

Returning for the first time in six years, the Multicultural Comedy Gala comes to Canberra Theatre on the Saturday. Hosted by John Safran in a celebration of our rich cultural diversity, comedians from all backgrounds take the stage.

Sunday sees a festival first with a day full of family-friendly entertainment and activities. The free hands-on program includes circus workshops, cultural art activities and bilingual story time.

Full details available at multiculturalfestival.com.au

On stage with Canberra’s Youth

The Canberra Youth Theatre (CYT) is making sure its 51st year is one to be remembered with an impressive new season of laughs, tears, and trials.

The curtain rises on the season on 19-28 May with a play straight from London’s West End, The Trials by Dawn King. Set not long from now, the heat is unbearable as the climate emergency is

coming to a head and someone needs to be held accountable, by a jury of teenagers.

You Can’t Tell Anyone by Joanna Richards, winner of the 2021 Emerging Playwright Commission, comes to the stage on 10-20 August; a thrilling ride about an end-of-school party full of honesty, cruelty and secrets being spilled.

Rosieville by Mary Rachel Brown follows a homing pigeon, which is not great with directions, as it helps Rose navigate loss and heartbreak on stage from 29 September to 8 October.

Learn more about Canberra Youth Theatre and its upcoming season at canberrayouththeatre.com.au

Rosieville by Mary Rachel Brown, runs 29 September–8 October at Canberra Theatre Centre. Photo: Adam McGrath – HCreations.

CW Time Out editor Jessica Cordwell brings you the latest in arts and entertainment news from around the Canberra region. In this edition, we look ahead at the entertainment to come in 2023.

Now showing

Avatar: The Way of Water (M)

More than a decade after the events of Avatar (2008), Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) is chief of his forest-dwelling Na’vi tribe while raising four children with his beloved Neytiri (Zoe Saldana). Soon, dastardly humans return to colonise Pandora. Flashing forward one year later, the humans have erected an operating base and have rebirthed Quaritch (Stephen Lang) and his team of mercenaries as cloned Na’vi to rid Jake and his team of insurgents from their operations.

The original Avatar was a celebration of visuals, ambiance, and environment over story, which was derivative of Pocahontas and, in turn, Dances with Wolves. A story of a white saviour eventually empathising with the plight of an indigenous people, the sequel serves as a soft reboot/sequel than a direct continuation. Close to 14 years later,

the stakes rise with the introduction of the Sully clan. Unable to guarantee his children’s safety, Jake takes a literal sea-change by moving his family to the presumed safety of Pandora’s ‘reef people’ to wait out the mercenaries who are hell-bent on his destruction.

The reincarnated Quaritch is further complicated, having been rebirthed in his enemy’s form and similarly burdened with a child which serves as both a blessing and a curse of vulnerability in the battlefield.

While the graphics are hyper-realistic, overindulgent scenes and subplots bloat the movie’s runtime beyond what is needed for the re/telling of the story.

Verdict: A visually sumptuous all-encompassing environmental experience over story. Come and experience James Cameron’s Pandora again. 3.5 stars. - Luke McWilliams themovieclub.net

Viewed in 2D at Dendy Canberra.

Book talk

This week, Michael Popple recommends three outstanding books to relax with this summer. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.com

Headcase by Jack Heath

Allen & Unwin, $32.99

A highly rated book for summer is the latest gruesome thriller from Canberra author Jack Heath, Headcase. When a dead Chinese astronaut is found at the NASA complex in Houston, no one can explain how he got there. Now working for the CIA, cannibal Timothy Blake is sent to investigate and soon finds himself facing off against spies, serial killers, and his former FBI partner. This is an exceptional dark thriller that really highlights Heath’s position as one of Australia’s best authors. Bringing together an impressive, and over the top, mystery with deliciously complex characters, Headcase is an epic and enjoyable read.

Star Wars: Convergence by Zoraida Córdova

Del Rey, $32.99

Make sure all the Star Wars fans in your life spend summer reading the latest High Republic entry, Convergence. The Republic is in an age of exploration led by the Jedi. However, new dangers lurk on the horizon as the Republic attempts to mediate peace between two warring planets. When an outside party interferes, it falls to a troubled Jedi Knight and foppish political scion to stop them. The next chapter of Star Wars fiction is off to a very strong start. An addictive read, Convergence perfectly introduces a new phase of the High Republic sub-series with an amazing and powerful story.

Red Winter by Marc Cameron Sphere, $32.99

Nothing is better for summer reading than a new Jack Ryan book. When an experimental US aircraft crashes in the Nevada desert in 1985, a Stasi agent is able to obtain its secrets. To stop the information falling into the wrong hands, Jack Ryan goes behind the Iron Curtain to East Germany to secure a potential defector. Marc Cameron continues his brilliant work expanding Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan series with this awesome read. A slick and captivating spy thriller that takes the reader back to the heyday of Clancy’s writing, Red Winter is a fantastic novel that makes for great poolside reading.

Canberra Weekly competition winners

The winners in Canberra Weekly’s latest round of competition draws are: Fodbods: S Schneider, karabar; M Vetter, Deakin; R Simunic, Gungahlin. Darby and Joan DVDs: B Collins, Oxley; P Bayliss; Goulburn; K Davis, Gilmore; A Kendal, Kingston; K Kelly, Downer; A Toner, Gowrie; A Ryan, Nicholls; J Triggs, Bruce; S Watt, Macgregor; J Dzirba, Kaleen. Red Rooster: L Curtis, Gungahlin; P Kershaw, Dunlop; R McNamara, Kambah. The Fabelmans film passes: L Bijorac, Queanbeyan East; K Gallagher, Calwell; A Bolton, Kambah; C Doherty, Chisholm; P Mooney, Griffith. A Man Called Otto film passes: M Price, Gordon; A Mengel, Campbell; J Bown, Wanniassa; J Vickers, Weston; S Shepherd, Braddon.

Take 5 with Ross Wilson

Ross Wilson is hoping to help change the way touring impacts the environment with Ross Wilson’s Cool World Tour 2023, stopping in the Canberra region at Tallagandra Hill Winery on Saturday 28 January with supporting guests . CW caught up with Wilson to talk sustainability and surviving the industry for half a century.

1

The Cool World Tour is about promoting sustainability; why is it important to you?

It isn’t a new idea; it’s been banging on for years and years.

I wrote a song called Cool World which was a big hit when I was in Mondo Rock. Now it can be interpreted in many ways; it could be about people being closed-minded to this idea. A double meaning, trying to cool the world, turning it into a reality.

2What will you be doing differently?

Just simple things: you needed water on stage, we would be provided with water bottles, I take my own refillable along. Just one gig it would cut down on an immense amount of plastic. We’re so used to everything being packaged and put in the little yellow bin and hope someone else takes care of it.

I don’t get on stage and preach a sermon to anyone. It’s an underlying theme we’re trying to get across; let’s make the world cooler, not hotter.

3At what point in your career did realise the toll touring takes on the environment?

A long time ago; it is something that you have to juggle. We fly around the place, we do have a footprint whether we fly or drive. We are hoping down the track that we are getting access to electric vehicles.

4 Do you incorporate sustainable practices into your personal life?

I try to keep the house running nicely, the council in Port Phillip was mindful of things and provide a lot of services, there is a good recycling program, and they are about to start

another bin where you put your organic material and will turn it into compost and use it in the many great parks. I am quite proud of them.

5 Fifty years in the industry is

incredible achievement; do you have any highlights?

an

I’ve been really lucky to just work in the music biz for that time, either performing or writing songs, producing other artists, but what I really love doing is performing live.

Ross Wilson will perform at Tallagandra Hill Winery, Gundaroo, 28 January 5.30pm; ticketebo.com.au

Some answers have been condensed for publication.

- Jessica Cordwell

Ross Wilson brings his Ross Wilson’s Cool World Tour to Tallagandra Hill Winery, 28 January. Image supplied.

WHAT’S ON

FEARED AND REVERED: Explore feminine spiritual power through the ages in this exhibition on loan from the British Museum, National Museum of Australia, until 27 August; nma.gov.au

BLUEPRINT: Discover objects which helped shape Australia at the new permanent interactive exhibition at the Museum of Australian Democracy, Old Parliament House; moadoph.gov.au

WHO ARE YOU: Australian Portraiture brings together pieces from the National Gallery of Victoria and National Portrait Gallery in a rich study, at the NPG until 29 January; free. Also a free creative activities family space inspired by the exhibition; portrait.gov.au

CLOUD COUNTRY: Canberra’s Caroline Reid showcases paintings of the rich water resources from the ACT to the Victorian border, Raglan Art Gallery, Cooma, until 21 January; raglangallerycooma.com

MOAD: Home to a host of exhibitions, such as Behind the Lines 2022 and Statement: Jack Green’s Paintings at Old Parliament House, free entry; bookings encouraged.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL: The Charles Dickens classic continues at Canberra Theatre, until 24 December; canberratheatrecentre.com.au

CHRISTMAS PARKRUN: Connect with the community with a morning walk or run, grab your best festive gear and head to Lake Burley Griffin or Yerrabi Pond, Sunday 25 December; parkrun.com.au/special-events

DRAW IN: Audiences are invited to draw and listen to the live music of Bella Groove, National Portrait Gallery, 28 December 1pm; portrait.gov.au

NYE CELEBRATE BY THE LAKE: Ring in the new year beside Lake Burley Griffin with firework displays at 9pm and midnight, grab a rug and head to one of the four hubs featuring live entertainment and food vendors, 31 December from 6pm; events.canberra.com.au

THE BASEMENT: The Belconnen venue presents a night of tribute acts, including tributes to Devo, the Violent Femmes and others, on New Year’s Eve, 31 December; thebasementcanberra.com.au

NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE: The Monaro Folk Society invites all to see the year out with a dance and performance by the Woolshed Hoppers, Yarralumla Woolshed, 31 December 8pm.

VINES AND VIBES: Celebrate the new year at Lake George Winery with delicious food, fine wine and live music, 1 January 12-5pm; lakegeorgewinery.com.au

TENNIS: The P2 Advisory Canberra International 2023 makes a long-awaited return to Canberra Tennis Centre, 1-7 January; tennis.com.au/act

DRAW IN: Audiences are invited to draw while listening to the live music of Salar Ayoubi, National Portrait Gallery, 2 January 1pm; portrait.gov.au

PORTRAIT PLAY: Explores ‘My Favourite Things’ with children aged 4-8 encouraged to bring their own things to create a portrait, National Portrait Gallery, 3 January-27 February, bookings essential; portrait.gov.au

SUMMERNATS: The annual street machine festival returns to Exhibition Park in Canberra with displays, burnouts, live music and more, 5-8 January; summernats.com.au

SUMMER MUSIC SCHOOL: Returns with a program of song, dance, instrument making and learning for primary aged children, Macquarie Primary School, 9-13 January; youngmusicsociety.org.au

GRACE PETRIE: The UK folk artist brings her Australian to the capital at Smith’s Alternative, 10 January 7pm; smithsalternative.com

BUBBLES & BEATS: Indulge in a meal or grab a picnic to enjoy on the lawn as DJ Arnott Olsen provides live entertainment at Lake George Winery, 14 January 12-5pm; lakegeorgewinery.com.au

SLAM! PRO WRESTLING: Experience a night unlike any other when the biggest names in wrestling battle it out at Ainslie Football Club, 14 January 7pm; eventbrite.com.au

STORY TIME: A reading of Do You Want to Meet Grandma? with author SV Middleby, National Portrait Gallery, 16 January 10.30am; www.portrait.gov.au

OLD BUS DEPOT MARKETS: The much-loved markets continue at the Old Bus Depot in Kingston, Sundays 9.30 am-2.30pm; obdm.com.au

BRIC-A-BRAC RUMMAGE: Hunt for second-hand treasure in front of South.Point, Tuggeranong, Sundays 9am-3pm.

LUNCHULELE: Every Monday 12.30- 1.30pm, ukulele players perform at Smith’s Alternative; smithsalternative.com

SING AUSTRALIA: Weekly sessions at: Belconnen, Thursday 9.30am; Duntroon, Monday 7.30pm; Greenway, Monday 1pm. Costs apply; singaustralia.com.au

KIPPAX MARKETPLACE: Indoor market at Kippax Uniting Church Community Centre on the 3rd Saturday of the month 8am-12pm; free entry.

COMMUNITY MARKET: Monthly market at Calwell shopping centre on the 3rd Saturday of the month 9am-3pm and Queanbeyan Park on the 3rd Sunday 9am-2pm.

LITTLE FACES: A special program for babies, toddlers and their carers full of singing, play and discovery, National Portrait Gallery, 18-20 January; portrait.gov.au

Send your free entertainment listings to: arts@canberraweekly.com.au with ‘what’s on’ in the subject field. Deadline is 10 days prior to Thursday edition date.

NYE Celebrate by the Lake, 31 December from 6pm.

THE LOOK

Retro Riviera

The Riviera stretches between Cannes, France, and La Spezia, Italy. Sheltered to the north by the Maritime Alps, the district enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year. In Canberra, our winters may not be as mild, but our summers have their own charm – captured here lakeside at Lotus Bay in Yarralumla. Plus, you don’t have to hop on a plane to look the part.

Venetian Venus

Phillyda wears Anna jewel earring, $79.95, Lou jewel necklace, $129, print tuck detail halter dress, $299 and Mini woven shopper, $129, Country Road; Barcs Gala pearl & stone bracelet, $49.95, Reality Kiss Kiss sunglasses, $59, and David Lawrence cu bracelet, $99.95, David Jones; Frankie4 Jay II sandal, $249.95, Happy Fit; Yango Creek hat, $125, oogee.com.au. In the bag Seafolly wa e beach towel set, $79.95, David Jones.

Tres cool

Phillyda wears Helen Kaminski raffia braid visor, $195, Reality Loren sunglasses, $59, David Lawrence bangle, $119.95, Mimco Fascinate bracelet, $49.95, Mimco Ecliptic bracelet, $49.95, and Milana beach bag, $129.95, David Jones; Livvy crystal hoop, $79.95 and tie detail tunic, $179, Country Road; Aqua Blu Melissa one piece, $189.99, Colleen’s Lingerie and Swimwear; ELK Vester platforms, $209, Debbie Maree’s Fashion Boutique. In the bag Sheridan mullerton throw, $199.99, David Jones.

canberraweekly.com.au

Diamonds Manuka have a comprehensive range of coloured Diamonds, Gemstones and South Sea Pearls.

Make it a December to remember with a beautifully handcrafted gift from Diamonds Manuka Manuka

Sprezzatura

Ciao,

Photography Kerrie Brewer

Styling

Anja de Rozario

Model Phillyda from Victoria’s Models

Rowboat: Njord, courtesy of Peter Ottesen, Traditional Boat Squadron

Meme

Bottega Green was one of the most popular colors of 2021 and continues to be splashed across summer window displays into the new year. However, fashion, as it’s prone to do, has already moved on one step further, rolling out what Australian Vogue has coined ‘chroma key green’ on royals, celebrities, and fashion week guests alike.

WITH FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR, ANJA DE ROZARIO

Catherine, Princess of Wales wore a column dress in the eyewateringly bright shade to attend the 2022 Earthshot Prize, and the internet had a ball. The ‘green screen dress’ was used to photoshop the princess wearing pepperoni pizza, avocado toast, and, perhaps most tongue-and-cheek of all, promo for Harry & Meghan’s new Netflix tell-all.

AJ

Odudu also wore meme green to the Awards, in the form of a Stella McCartney dress featuring daring cut-outs, which the British television presenter remarked was “well worth freezing me chops o for.”

Fashion-savvy celebs are also going mad for the meme-able green with several sporting the shade to the 2022 Fashion Awards, including House of the Dragon’s Queen of Team Green herself, Emily Carey, who plays young Alicent Hightower.

Finishing o the trifecta of Fashion Awards attendees, Marvel actress Pom Klementie wore this pom-pom of a dress - which was, in fact, designed by H&M! The dress was part of the H&M Metaverse Design Story, showcased on the red carpet, and is created from recycled polyester. (continued next page)

Be your best with the support of the experienced team at Curves Jamison. We are more than a gym! We are women supporting women, as a community. Kicking o 2023 with a Joining fee for ONLY $20.23*

O er is only available for January 2023. Get in quick 10 spots available.

Meme green also graced Paris fashion Week last October.

On Day 7, German fashion blogger, asymmetric cut-out bodysuit in the shade, paired with futurist sunglasses, a longline blazer, and high waist trousers.

Y o u r f a c i a l a e s t h e t i c j o u r n e y i s u n i q u e t o e a c h p e r s o n a n d h e r e a t

W h y A e s t h e t i c s , w e c a r e a b o u t Y O U R W H Y

B e a u t y a n d w e l l n e s s c a n g o h a n d i n h a n d T h e r e i s a r a n g e o f s e r v i c e s a v a i l a b l e t o s u i t a n y n o n - i n v a s i v e c o s m e t i c r e q u i r e m e n t s y o u h a v e C o m p l i m e n t a r y a n d o b l i g a t i o n - f r e e i n i t i a l a s s e s s m e n t s a l l o w f o r a p r o p e r m e d i c a l a n d f a c i a l a s s e s s m e n t F

l l o w u s o n I n s t a g r a m f o r w e e k l y s p e c i a l s

Summer essentials

Before you go rushing lakeside to celebrate summer, make sure you have the sun smart essentials for a barbie by the bay. Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world, with approximately two in three Aussies diagnosed during their lifetime. Whether you’re relaxing with a beach read, designated grill master, or jumping straight in the water, slip on sun-protective clothing, slop on water-resistant sunscreen, slap on a broad brimmed hat, seek shade, and slide on a pair of sunnies.

Face day wear invisible fluid SPF50+ 50ml, $19.95, Face day wear moisturiser invisible SPF50+ 75ml, $15.95, Outback lightweight fedora hat, $55, and Berrimah sunglasses, $34.95, cancercouncilshop.org.au; Simple Fancy by Margo and Rosa Flanagan, $39.99, Dymocks.

Photo Kerrie Brewer

Luke Clews

Ringing in the New Year with plenty of laughter and loved ones is a tradition as old as time, and this year is no exception. Whether you’re a disco queen or an afternoon frolic in a park type of New Year’s Eve partier, CW has got you covered in styling your last day of the year. Goodbye 2022, hello 2023!

WITH HOME EDITOR, ABBEY HALTER

Inside & out

The latest in news, trends and happenings for the home, with CW Home editor, Abbey Halter.

Community gardens grow global citizens

The simple act of gardening can deliver unique learning experiences, research from the University of South Australia shows. Primary school children are using horticulture to engage with their curriculum through a weekly gardening project while encouraging a sustainable future.

UniSA Associate Professor Kathryn Paige said the students were learning maths, chemistry, science and biology, and literacy through the project, and their social skills also improved as they engaged with their peers.

2023 Wallpaper trends

Wallpaper remains a key interior design element in Australian homes.

Superfresco Easy have predicted the top two wallpaper trends for 2023.

Neutrals: Warmer neutrals – terracotta red, rich browns, and celadon green – are expected to be popular in adding calmness, subtlety and sophistication to homes.

Wood, brick, panels & tiles: We expect to see realistic wallpapers replicating wood, bricks, panels, and tiles, along with geometric designs. Bringing a sense of tradition and comfort to rooms, this simple and structured style will be right on trend.

together?

Access help for the parts of decorating you need. We take your style, then pull it all together so you can move forward. Avoid big ticket mistakes and achieve the stylish, classic, forever home you deserve.

Scan to learn more about ‘Choose your Own Adventure Decorating Services’

www.journey-home.com.au

Can’t seem to pull your home

Location doesn’t get much better than 2/83-85 Timbara Crescent. In a beachfront position in gorgeous Surfside NSW, this coastal home has everything you need – surf, sand, and a place to call home.

Nestled directly across from the grassy parkland reserve, the ocean is literally 20 metres away while Batemans Bay town centre is just a 1.5km walk, and you’ll surely fall in love with the picturesque views of the Bay.

Set across two storeys, this townhouse offers open plan living with stylish vaulted ceilings, an abundance of space, built-in wardrobes in both bedrooms, and two bathrooms for total convenience.

Agent Rob Routledge describes the home is having a contemporary design mixed with a retro exterior.

“Perfect for a holiday home or those who are looking for direct access to the water, great for someone who wants to add value to a property,” Mr Routledge says.

“Central to everything with great water views … you can see all that the Bay has to offer.

“It has a fantastic record as a holiday let and would be the perfect home for a permanent holiday house. It’s right on the water with direct access to the beach and is the low-maintenance, perfect lock-up-and-leave type of property.”

8 Blakely Row, Yarralumla $2,280,000 Maloneys

10 Viner Place, Nicholls $2,100,000 Town Residential

8 Lawson Place, Jerrabomberra $1,845,000 Belle

56 Marungul Avenue, Ngunnawal $1,765,000 Stone

5 Ena Noel Street, Coombs $1,750,000 Maria Selleck

22 Nicholii Loop, Jerrabomberra $1,680,000 Blewitt

73A Birdwood Street, Hughes $1,650,000 Luton

4 Deloraine Street, Lyons $1,440,000 Maloneys

11 Myall Street, O'Connor $1,318,000 Luton

181 Newman-Morris Cct, Oxley $1,283,000 Estate Realty

29 Hibberd Crescent, Forde $1,255,000 Stone

76/15 Darling Street, Barton $1,250,000 Boris

107 Kitchener Street, Garran $1,235,000 Hodgkinson

37 Kinlyside Avenue, Jerrabomberra $1,230,000 LJ Hooker

4 Osmand Street, Wanniassa $1,185,000 McCann

51 Clem Hill Street, Gordon $1,170,000 Solely

52/18 Austin Street, Griffith $1,149,000 Belle

44 Michael Holt Crescent, Gordon $1,125,000 Independent

39 Charles Perkins Circuit, Bonner $1,120,000 Home by Holly

70 Heagney Crescent, Chisholm $1,115,000 Property Collective

32 Newton Street, Hackett $1,100,000 Home by Holly

9 Springvale Drive, Weetangera $1,075,000 Ray White

306/2 Grose Street, Deakin $1,075,000 Belle

17 Mathieson, Weetangera $1,075,000 Town Residential

2 Rockley Parade, Googong $1,060,000 Property Collective

73 Maribyrnong Avenue, Kaleen $1,030,000 LJ Hooker

13 Dargin Crescent, Moncrieff $987,500 Canberry

5 Partridge Street, Gowrie $850,000 Property Collective

21 Tregellas Crescent, Banks $840,000 Property Collective

10 Allnutt Crescent, Forde $839,500 Stone

3/15 Calaby Street, Coombs $830,000 Property Collective 3 Gymea Street, Narrabundah $830,000 Connected Agency 208 Newman-Morris Circuit, Oxley $825,000 McCann 164 Kingsford Smith Drive, Melba $806,000 Ray White

26/56 Christina Stead Street, Franklin $800,000 Stone 21 Raiwalla Court, Ngunnawal $790,000 Impact Properties 40/2 Rouseabout Street, Lawson $750,000 Independent 49 Elkedra Close, Hawker $750,000 Independent 27/2 Clare Burton Crescent, Franklin $747,500 MARQ Property 2 Whitmore Crescent, Watson $740,000 LJ Hooker 100 Carlile Street, Evatt $737,500 Luton 37 Fellows Street, Latham $730,000 LJ Hooker 164/15 Mower Place, Phillip $675,000 Independent 23/51 Leahy Close, Narrabundah $655,000 LJ Hooker 35/66 Allara Street, City $642,500 Luton

A prominent 2,090sqm land holding in Canberra’s popular Inner North mixed-use precinct, Braddon, is set to be redeveloped and revitalised, bringing new life to a prime site.

Director of capital markets at Colliers, Matthew Winter, led the recent sale of the Elouera Street Flats and said it presented one of the few remaining development opportunities within the Braddon precinct.

The site sits on the corner of Elouera Street and Northbourne Avenue – one of Canberra’s most recognisable corner locations.

The Elouera Street Flats are comprised of 16 separate units that were sold in one-line after three years of preparation by various owners and Colliers.

The purchaser, Rowan Liebke of Liebke & Co, is considering how best

to utilise the prime location.

“We are looking at all of our options for this incredible site. We had the site originally slated for a world class, low environmental impact workspace anchored by a global tech giant, however, the overwhelming need for boutique residential apartments has seen our team running a dual strategy,” Mr Liebke said.

“The location is second to none, laying the canvas for us to deliver a stunning asset. Canberra has a very stable commercial and residential market; we are extremely confident to continue to make investments in the area.”

According to Mr Winter, this sale indicates the ongoing interest of interstate purchasers for value-add type opportunities in the ACT.

The Elouera Street Flats in Braddon have been purchased by Rowan Liebke of Liebke & Co.

Updated Home near Gungahlin Town Centre

! In highly desirable location, this renovated property invites all aspects of cosmopolitan living near Gungahlin town centre. Light-filled throughout with separate living areas, a wealth of space is provided to help you relax in comfort or entertain in a massive backyard among family and friends. Well designed with practical layout of this home offers a peaceful setting for you & your family to enjoy living near the town centre. At this great location, this home is to be most popular with home buyers and investors alike. With great access to both the Gungahlin town centre, arterial roads and the light rail, commuting is a breeze.

Located in the heart of Deakin, just 300m from the shops and close to medical facilities, The Grange retirement village offers you independent living in your own private home without the hassle of the building maintenance, and the security of knowing staff are onsite 24 hours a day in case of an emergency.

Join the vibrant and welcoming community where you can live life your way. Enjoy lunch or dinner in the private dining room. Take part in the many social activities or interest groups in the village. Keep fit at one of the regular exercise classes, the indoor pool or the many walking tracks nearby including Red Hill. Indulge your passion for culture at the many museums and galleries close by.

Call 02 6282 1782 to book a tour

Call 02 6282 1782 to find out more www.thegrangedeakin.com.au

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It’s more than a home, it’s a community

One Bedroom Home Coming Soon

We have a modern one-bedroom apartment available soon. This home comes with:

• Generous open plan living space opening onto a a balcony

• Modern kitchen with stone benchtops and user friendly appliances

• Large master bedroom

• Reverse cycle air conditioning to keep you comfortable all year round

• A accessible bathroom

• Internal laundry

• Smart metering and community solar electricity to reduce you energy footprint, and cost of living

It’s more than a home

Our residents love calling Bellerive Village home – and you will too.

Our relaxed, contemporary retirement village makes it easy for you to make the most of every day. Ditch the mower and enjoy the social community, neighbours you know, and your own home without the time-consuming maintenance. We’ll even change the lightbulbs.

For your day-to-day needs, Bellerive’s conveniently located close to the Canberra Hospital and the heart of Woden, home to Westfield, the bus interchange and many of Canberra’s premier clubs.

15 Burnie Street, Lyons ACT 2606 www.bellerivevillage.com.au

We believe a home is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a sanctuary that allows you more time to do the things you love.

At Marigal Gardens retirement village, you’ll enjoy access to fabulous facilities and services at your doorstep, and an already established and thriving community.

And, when you’re ready to unwind or entertain in the privacy of your own home, you’ll enjoy:

• generous open plan living areas designed to be practical and inviting

• spacious balconies or courtyards to enjoy the paper and a coffee, or dabble in some gardening

• well-appointed kitchens with all the modern conveniences

• reverse cycle air-conditioning for all year round comfort

• double glazing

• abundant light and ingenious use of space

• sophisticated neutral palette and subtle textures that create a timeless canvas to add your own personal touch

• internal access to a secure car space with a storage cage

• 24-hour emergency assistance at the push of a button for peace of mind.

Experience convenient and comfortable living, where someone else mows the lawns and takes care of the extensive village gardens there for your enjoyment.

Executive Golf and Beachside Retreat

Set in a highly sought-after location flowing onto Mollymook’s Beachside Golf Course capturing panoramic ocean and golf course views, this property provides an abundance of space upon its rare 917sqm level parcel. Spanning over two levels, this executive retreat offers multiple living and entertaining areas.

Direct access to the 9 Hole Beachside Golf Course

• Gourmet kitchen with Caesarstone benchtops

• Elevated east facing timber deck to capture the morning sun

• Spacious backyard with beautiful established gardens

• Residential lift providing access from garage to 1st floor

• Downstairs fully self-contained guest accommodation

• Triple drive through garage, plus additional off-street parking

11 Guerilla Bay Road Guerilla Bay

TRANQUIL SHORES

Not often does a property such as this present to the market in Guerilla Bay one of the most hidden, sheltered, and picturesque positions in the Eurobodalla. The home for all intents and purposes has been set up for large groups to stay over and enjoy the peaceful ambiance or just spoil yourself and enjoy the space. Imagine your family and friends all enjoying the location and that old-style Australian holiday walks along the beach a dip in the clear sheltered waters or throw in a line out of the kayak.

50 Wattlebird Way

Bay

21 Lilli Pilli Road Lilli Pilli South Coast NSW

SOUGHT AFTER LOCATION

1/42 Peninsula Drive North Batesmans Bay

A free-standing dual occupancy home for the discerning purchaser. Every now and then you walk into a property and on close inspection you can see the quality input that has been built into the home. The large cedar bi-fold doors open right up to create the seamless flow to the outdoor entertaining area, complete with private bush views and even a glimpse of the close by beach.

3 2 2

For Sale $1,000,000 - $1,100,000

View Contact Agent

81 Eric Fenning Drive Surf Beach

ROOM TO MOVE

1266sqm 4 2 2

Paradise is Found

This home is like a tropical paradise - with walls of glass stretching from the floor to the ceiling, creating a retreatlike environment. The open plan living compliments the generous space of this home, creating a relaxed and spacious area for formal and casual meals, and a super large lounge. The kitchen is a delight with loads of space for all the budding chefs, heaps of cupboards, extensive benches and breakfast bar. This area opens onto the deep timber balcony with glass balustrade. Downstairs has an extra bathroom, large laundry and plenty of room under the house for the table tennis table, parking the car and keeping all your beach toys. Only a short walk to Lilli Pilli Beach.

Homes in this location tend to sell quickly so if a good sized 3 bed 2 bath 2 car home is on your list this may be the one, with garaging and workshop space under and the rest of the home all on one level with a great private entertaining area to the back it ticks many of the boxes. With around 335sm of floor area, large master suite and separate living areas it’s a great family home with the bonus of a back to grid solar system to keep the costs down.

The home itself is single level with a great layout, separating the roomy master suite with ensuite at one end of the home. The other 3 bedrooms and family bathroom with separate W/C is well away at the other end. The semi-open plan living sits in the centre of the home offering a great choice on which way you want to set things up to suit your own lifestyle

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided.Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

For Sale $950,000

View Contact Agent

Agent

For Sale By Negotiation View By Appointment Agent Nola Debney 0412 907 002 ljhooker.com/X57F8F CWM0955-V2

batemansbay.ljhooker.com.au LJ Hooker Batemans Bay 02 4472 6455

1/57 Maloneys Drive

Maloneys Beach

THE BEACH BECKONS

If the smell of the sea and a short walk to get your feet in the water at the beach this property might be the one. Being a duplex there is no strata fees to pay, the back yard is fenced and has room for your pets the front has easy street access and parking for your boat.

3 2 1

For Sale

$750,000

View Contact Agent Agent Rob Routledge 0414 235 976

57 Waterson Drive

Surf Beach

PRESTIGE LOCATION

Small acreage lots are always in demand you get room to let your design thoughts expand not constrained by the close boundaries of a normal lot, want a shed or two no problems, want room for the boat and the R/V it’s all too easy, Potential for a dual occupancy, the zoning allows it (STCA).

2.99ha

For Sale

$690,000 - $750,000

View Contact Agent Agent Rob Routledge 0414 235 976

Lot 4 Bunderra Circuit

Lyrebird Hill Malua Bay

1.49ha

21 Lilli Pilli Road Lilli Pilli South Coast NSW

SECLUDED ACREAGE NEAR THE BEACH

For Sale

48 Catalina Drive Catalina

BUILD YOUR DREAM

1347sqm

For Sale

Paradise is Found

$695,000

Rarely does such a private acreage, close to both Malua Bay Beach and shops and the private Lilli Pilli Beach, present to the market. Connected to water, sewer, underground power and NBN, this block is reached via private sealed road access. With ocean views, to reinforce your proximity to the beach you can just hear the waves breaking on the beach.

View Contact Agent Agent Rob Routledge 0414 235 976

Vacant blocks of land are in short supply so a cleared block of 1347sm with no time limit to build is sure to be of interest to people either ready to get building straight away or just hold as a landbank for the future.

This home is like a tropical paradise - with walls of glass stretching from the floor to the ceiling, creating a retreatlike environment. The open plan living compliments the generous space of this home, creating a relaxed and spacious area for formal and casual meals, and a super large lounge. The kitchen is a delight with loads of space for all the budding chefs, heaps of cupboards, extensive benches and breakfast bar. This area opens onto the deep timber balcony with glass balustrade. Downstairs has an extra bathroom, large laundry and plenty of room under the house for the table tennis table, parking the car and keeping all your beach toys. Only a short walk to Lilli Pilli Beach.

There are homes built either side and the block would lend itself to a large home or even two separate homes

$380,000 - $420,000

View Contact Agent Agent Rob Routledge 0414 235 976

batemansbay.ljhooker.com.au LJ Hooker Batemans Bay 02 4472 6455

batemansbay.ljhooker.com.au

Move straight in, with nothing more to do to add to the appeal and comfort of the property. This spacious, neutrally decorated, entertainers delight is located within a short walk to Maloney’s beach!

This double storey home offers four large double sized bedrooms, all with built in robes. Master, privately located downstairs with its own retreat/ media room and

Batemans Bay

Hincksman Lifestyle

SPACIOUS, BEACH LIFESTYLE ENTERTAINER

ensuite. The three remaining bedrooms are located upstairs, where there is another lounge/ living area.

Sale $1,100,000

Contact Roslyn Pollard 0478 800 054

PRIVATE AND WELL LOCATED

This beautifully presented home offers idyllic coastal living, encompassing versatile design and outdoor living. Split level home featuring open plan living, dining and kitchen area with beautiful, raked ceilings leading out to the covered entertaining deck. Ample storage in the kitchen with a walk-in pantry, wall oven and gas stovetop. Separate lounge area located at the front of the home with large bay

windows.

OWNERS HAVE NOW COMMITTED ELSEWHERE AND ARE OPEN TO OFFERS!

Sale $972,000

Contact Rebecca Shepheard 0413 580 309

BAREFOOT COMFORT WITH A LUXURIOUS VIBE…

The façade, an impressive building to blend timeless style with modern family life to a scale that will instantly impress… Two 4 Bedroom Townhouses artfully designed and inspired to maximise the spectacular waterfront location tease the sense at rst glance with a luxurious and exhilarating lifestyle experience o ering the homeowner the ultimate digs. Tiered living oozes edgy design functionality. Contemporary minimal palette, high quality design elements and retractable doors merge vast indoor and outdoor spaces to take full advantage of the tip-top Clyde River foreshore location. Sun-drenched

with a sea breeze the casual ease of multi-living zones will be too hard to leave. If messing about on boats is what you love best the Marina is right here on your doorstep. You will love the convenience of Restaurants, Cafes, Country Club and Batemans Bay Central. Overlooking the intra-coastal waterway, enjoy far reaching views of the Bay & Islands. Indulgent, imaginative and inspired 31A & 31B Beach Road are turn-key ready and waiting for a new owner. For more details go to: www.realbayside.com.au

instrumentalists (9)

Spice; kick the ball between an opponent’s legs (6)

Movable shelter (6)

Painting of the countryside (9)

funeral or burial rites (9)

Barack — (5)

Burrow (6)

i nconsequential things (6)

i nflated (6)

Black deposit (4)

Struggles; filters (7)

Cheering (7)

about

(2,6)

1. What is the capital of Tahiti?

Is a mansard a type of roof, bug or soil? 3. Whose first novel, An Open Swimmer, was published in 1982? 4. The vibraphone belongs to which family of musical instruments? 5. Suryavarman II was a 12th-century king of what empire? 6. And in what country is the empire now located? 7. In what year did the Sydney Harbour Bridge open? 8. Greens senator Lidia Thorpe won which electoral district in the 2017 by-election? 9. In a game of marbles, what is it to phernudge?

Moloch horridus is the Latin name for which Australian lizard?

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(4)

22 december – 28 december 2022

WIth patsY bennett

www.patsybennett.com for personal readings, contact p atsy through her website to make an appointment, or call 0448 808 333.

facebook: facebook.com/patsybennettpsychicastrology

Instagram: instagram.com/patsybennettastrology

AquA rius jan 21 – feb 19

friday’s new moon produces the opportunity to broaden your social circle and to enjoy meeting a diverse crowd. You may be surprised by some of the scenarios that arise, but if you keep an open mind, you’ll enjoy them, and will avoid arguments. You may be tempted to overspend.

pisc E s feb 20 – mar 20

a s you look back at this past year, you may see that you have changed to a certain degree, and what’s more, that new options will arise as a result. j ust be sure to avoid a battle of egos this festive week, as when you do, you’ll enjoy being spontaneous and indulging in romance and socialising.

A ri E s mar 21 – apr 20 the next few weeks will be ideal for planning dynamic and adventurous projects. b ut you must avoid overextending yourself and must keep things in perspective. friday’s new moon and supermoon will enable progress with a travel, legal or study matter, so take the initiative.

TAurus a pr 21 – maY 21

You may be surprised by developments that fast-forward you into fresh terrain. f or some, this will be in your personal life, for others, via a relationship. b e practical so that you can manage shared concerns such as space at home and joint duties. You’ll enjoy a lovely get-together.

g E mini maY 22 – jun 21

You may be pleasantly surprised by news regarding finances or work, but must consider negotiating your circumstances carefully on thursday. friday’s new moon and supermoon spells a fresh chapter in your relationships, which could alter your status as you progress in your life.

celebrity birthday

Jennifer Hawkins, 22 December 1983

Jennifer Hawkins possesses not only beauty but also strong motivation and drive. s he is likely to always achieve her goals. s he is also a considerate and compassionate person, understanding that everyone needs a helping hand at some point. Due to her nurturing abilities and her talent for improvement and beautification, her focus not only on family and property but also on charity will continue to appeal to her.

LEo jul 23 – aug 23

You may be surprised by news or developments in your personal life. b e prepared to look at circumstances from a practical point of view and avoid unnecessary arguments over shared jobs around the house or even family squabbles. You’ll enjoy a lovely gettogether or change of routine.

virgo aug 24 – sept 23 friday’s new moon and supermoon spells a fresh chapter in your domestic life. If you work with property, news may surprise you. It’s a good week to keep things on an even keel in the home and with those you love. a s a result, you’ll enjoy unexpected delights and romance could thrive.

scorpio oct 24 – nov 22

friday’s new moon and supermoon will kick-start a fresh financial chapter. this will be due to a new direction or fresh priorities. a change of place or of pace will bring unexpected developments your way, so be prepared to be flexible. avoid over-indulging as you’re likely to regret it.

sAgi TTA rius nov 23 – dec 21 n ovember-born s agittarians will appreciate the chance to create a more stable financial situation and may even receive good news at work or financially. december-born s agittarians will relish the chance to turn a corner in your personal life, with seasonal celebrations a contributing factor.

cA nc

the new moon and supermoon on friday will be ideal for creating a stable daily schedule. You may also be drawn to negotiate a fresh undertaking in your usual routine, such as ensuring your health and diet are in top form. You’ll receive surprising news. romance could flourish.

WIN! Good Change Store gift sets

Good Change Store is on a mission to rid your household of plastic, starting with your cleaning cupboard, and they’re giving away 4 x one of their favourite eco-cleaning gift sets that includes:

• 1 x pack Medium Eco Cloth, 1 x Large Eco Cloth – Highly absorbent cloths made up of biodegradable materials.

• 1 x roll Bamboo Reusable Towels –Sustainable alternatives to single-use paper towels.

• 1 x pack Eco Scrubs – An eco-alternative to your daily kitchen scourer, can also be used for body care.

For stockist enquiries, please visit the Good Change website: www.goodchangestore.com/

CW has 4 x these Good Change Store gift sets to be won.

WIN! Emily film passes

Emily (M) tells the imagined life of one of the world’s most famous authors, Emily Brontë. The film stars Emma Mackey as Emily, a rebel and misfit, as she finds her voice and writes the literary classic ‘Wuthering Heights’. Emily explores the relationships that inspired her –her raw, passionate sisterhood with Charlotte (Alexandra Dowling) and Anne (Amelia Gething); her first aching, forbidden love for Weightman (Oliver Jackson-Cohen) and her care for her maverick brother Branwell (Fionn Whitehead), whom she idolises.

In cinemas from 12 January.

CW has 10 x Emily (M) in-season double passes to be won.

WIN! Bestselling historical fiction books

Harlequin Australia has four fantastic book packs to give away in this edition of Canberra Weekly.

In The Forthright Woman by Darry Fraser and The

To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberraweekly.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 6 January 2023 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.