16 February 2023

DON’TMISSOUT

From the editor

Confession. I do love a hot cross bun – the traditional spiced sweet kind with mixed dried fruit – fresh from the bakery, or next day, toasted, with added buttery goodness. But I tend to hold out until Easter before indulging – possibly a throwback to my youth when that’s the only time they were available, but also because, dear reader, they make me burp. So, the HCB is definitely a sometimes food.

Lately, this special occasion treat has become available year-round, gracing supermarket shelves from Boxing Day through to Christmas. Plus, the HCB has spawned offspring of diverse flavours – from no-fruit, chocolate chip, and caramel, to apple and cinnamon, cheese and vegemite, and even barbecue sauce. Given the ready availability of all kinds of buns, scrolls or rolls, the simple addition of the flour cross seems to be a very successful marketing ploy swallowed by eager consumers.

Our online poll suggests about six in 10 respondents only eat the traditional HCB at Easter, while 15 per cent will devour any flavour, anytime. Where do you sit?

Reasons to be grateful this past week include the gift of experiencing love in its many flavours throughout my life, a delightful dinner for two, a clean bill of health at my annual checkup, rain after hot weather, and our colleague Gary sharing his homemade rhubarb and nashi pies plus more homegrown produce. Bon appetit!

on the cover

Melissa Bensley and Alarick the English Hackney prepare for the upcoming 2023 Royal Canberra Show at on 24-26 February. Photo by Kerrie Brewer. Shot on location at Exhibition Park in Canberra. See cover story, page 10.

Take a road trip back in time

The 1950s will forever be remembered as the decade of the post war boom, with a family focus, fabulous fashions, and fast cars. Catch some of the decade’s hottest rods in the Shannon’s Wheels Car Display 2023 at Queanbeyan Showground on Sunday 19 February.

The 41st annual charity event brings together car clubs from around the region as they head ‘Back to the 1950s’. However, the display spans much more than a single decade, with vehicles from the 1910s all way up to modern EVs to be included in the approximately 800 cars on show.

Supported by the Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council and major sponsor, Shannon’s Insurance, the funds raised through the gold coin entry donation, generous vendors and patrons, are divided among four local charities that are dedicated to helping people with disabilities, vulnerabilities, and animals of the region.

This year the beneficiaries are Technical Aid to the Disabled ACT, The Stroke Foundation, The Queanbeyan Pound, and Pegasus Riding for the Disabled.

“The main criteria is probably being local; if we feel it can benefit from the money, that’s important. It’s why we do the event,” says Malcolm John, member of the organising committee.

For the past four years, the event has been organised by the Canberra Antique and

Classic Motor Club on behalf of the Council of ACT Motor Clubs. Mr John says the day is a great opportunity for kids to be able to see what cars used to be like and for parents to chat with people who know the vehicles. The static show means the cars will remain in place, but Mr John says that doesn’t stop people from getting to experience the vehicles.

“If a kid comes up and shows interest in the car, I’ll get them to climb in, so it’s interactive,” he says.

Thirty or so car clubs are set to participate in the event, showcasing how cars have changed through the years – from Jaguars, MGs and Mercedes, to Holdens, Fords, and everything in between. Mr John is set to bring a couple from his impressive collection, including his show-stopping 1956 Austin Healy 100-4.

“It’s probably one of the most beautiful cars that was ever designed … beautiful in the eye of the beholder of course,” he smiles.

A true collector, Mr John has a number of beautiful antique cars – some restored, some preserved, and others still in the works. Elsie, the stunning 1926 Bullnose Morris Oxford, has been preserved and may make an appearance at the show. Her proud owner first saw her years ago when we couldn’t afford her, then thanks to fate and word of mouth, when she came up for sale he was able to bring her home.

“The original owner was called Elsie and her father bought it for her at the Adelaide Motor

Show in 1926. She had a chauffeur who just drove her to church every Sunday,” he smiles.

Each of his cars has a story, such as Willie the Veteran, a 1914 Morris Oxford Deluxe which came all the way from a museum in Scotland and is named after the man who invented it, William Morris.

“It’s the oldest surviving Morris Oxford Deluxe in the world. It is very unusual there are not many running around, there are about 12.”

With around 250 registered members, Mr John says the Canberra Antique and Classic Motor Club is the largest car club in the capital. However, he says on run days they are lucky to get 20 cars to come along, as some of the runs are more suited to automatic and newer vehicles.

For him, the club, the friendships he has made, and being able to help others has given him an extra sense of purpose. Together they trouble shoot, with one member even making new pistons for his Veteran, something he couldn’t find anywhere else.

“It’s just good to be involved with other people and get out and do stuff; really that’s the essence of a club. To see what other people are doing and see how they restore cars.”

Shannon’s Wheels Car Display 2023 at Queanbeyan Showground, Sunday 19 February 10am-3pm; eventbrite.com.au

- Jessica Cordwell

Malcolm John and his 1956 Austin Healey will be at Shannon’s Wheels Car Display at Queanbeyan Showground, Sunday 19 February.

Malcolm’s show-stopping 1956 Austin Healy 100-4.

Malcolm is proud owner of some rare vintage vehicles, including this 1968 Mini in British Racing Green.

Photos Kerrie Brewer

136 stalls featuring products, services and advice

Green Hub, Artist Hub, Hobby Hub and Model Railways

0am–3:30pm

Smart Energy Hub courtesy of SolarHub and ActewAGL

Singalong Sessions with Shortis and Simpson

Advice and information on the latest scams

Love songs of the 60’s and 70’s with Leisa Keen

15 March 2023 In Canberra (EPIC)

Elvis and Johnny Cash music tribute performances

Free parking and disabled car parking at EPIC

Free travel courtesy Transport Canberra & Canberra Metro

All this for a gold coin (or note) donation entry!

10am–3:30pm

15 March 2023 Exhibition Park

In Canberra (EPIC)

Sponsors:

Our

A royally good time at the Canberra Show

February in Canberra heralds the return of one of the region’s favourite family events, the Royal Canberra Show. This year’s Show takes over Exhibition Park on 24-26 February for three exciting and fun-filled days.

The feeling of being at the Show is unlike any other; spirits are high, bright colours and smiling faces meet you at every turn. You can spend your time mingling with barnyard babes in the nursery, watching feats of animal and human endurance in the main arena, trying your luck at a game, or thrill seeking on one of the wild rides. There is something for everyone in the Show’s carefully curated program.

“We’re always looking for new entertainment, things that are relevant to the agricultural aspects of things and entertainment,” says Rick Jones, President of the Royal National Capital Agricultural Society (RNCAS).

Mr Jones says the pig racing is always a popular one with the children, as are the fireworks and the sideshow alley rides. Across the weekend, there will be a number of crowd drawing events

including the lawnmower races, motocross stunt driving, tent pegging and the animal displays. Learn how to milk a cow, shear a sheep, and how to train a horse for movie roles. It is the horses that hold a special place in Mr Jones’s heart.

“My mother was a racehorse trainer, we had racehorses, I rode from the time I was born. My grandfather and my whole family have been into it all their lives and Melissa [daughter] and my grandkids are the next generations doing it,” he says.

Throughout his career in the penal system, spending time as the Governor of Goulburn Jail, Mr Jones also kept the horse business thriving. He has bred, reared, trained and shown horses, getting them to the point where he has been on movie sets like Pirates of the Caribbean, guiding stunt horses.

From being a councillor to member of the RNCAS board, to president, Mr Jones decided it was best to spend his time focusing on making the Show a great family event, which meant handing the reins to his daughter, Melissa Bensley.

“I always said when I retired, I would put a bit back in. Everybody has put Shows on over the years for me to attend, so I thought, well, it’s time I did the same,” he says.

While they own different breeds of horses, Mr Jones and now his daughter and son-in-law are known for their English Hackney horses. They own and operate Cherry Farm Hackney Stud, a horse-drawn carriage service where they breed and show the endangered horses. He says there are now fewer than 400 of the striking creatures in the world. Originally bred in the 1700s as a roadster, they were the equivalent of a top of the range sportscar today, with a fast trot and regal stance that turned heads.

Ms Bensley will be entering in the carriage driving event at this year’s Royal Canberra Show with one of their horse and buggy combinations. They own over 100 horse-drawn vehicles, some of which are centuries old, while others have been recreated from vintage designs. Helping with restorations is Mr Jones’s good friend, Neil Wilson, a coachbuilder and wheelwright.

Melissa Bensley and Alarick the English Hackney are ready for the Royal Canberra Show at Exhibition Park, 24-26 February. Photo: Kerrie Brewer.

Joining Ms Bensley for the Show is their English Hackney stallion, Alarick. At 23 years old, he has been their go-to breeding stud for the past two decades. Standing at 14.2 hands and with perfect poise, he has won supreme champion at most of the royal shows around the country.

Fittingly, his name means ruler of everything. He is the apple of Ms Bensley’s eye as well as being full of personality and like a member of the family, according to Mr Jones.

“He has a mirror in the stall, he loves his mirror … or he wants to be with you all the time, he is just that sort of horse,” smiles Mr Jones.

Catch Alarick strut his stuff along with hundreds of other horses over the weekend, in displays of elegance, athleticism, and a stunning parade.

Head to sideshow alley and jump on one of the wild rides

- the Hurricane, Dark Ride the ghost train, and Freak Out are recommended for the thrill seeker. Do a spot of showbag shopping at the Leisure and Lifestyle Pavilion, find a new hobby at the Craft Expo, or learn more about horticulture and produce at Harvest Hall.

Once you have worked up an appetite, head over to Capital Brewing Beer Garden, Family Food Court, Hearty Choice Food Court, or grab a dagwood dog from one of the food vans.

Pre-purchase your tickets online via canberrashow.org.au to qualify for free public transport to and from the Show in the ACT. Bring the family for a day of fun at the Royal Canberra Show at Exhibition Park, 24-26 February. Find more information in the four-page pull-out guide inside this magazine.

- Jessica Cordwell

Melissa Bensley, Alarick the English Hackney, and Rick Jones keep the horse business in the family at the Royal Canberra Show, Exhibition Park, 24-26 February. Photo: Kerrie Brewer.

Fun and games await at Sideshow Alley.

High flying fun in the Main Arena. What’s a visit to the Royal Canberra Show without showbags and rides?

Blue sky with grey clouds ahead

After a much needed few weeks of holidays for many of us, we‘re already back to the reality of life, work, school, and business in 2023.

In this mixed-up world of rising prices, staff and supply shortages, increasing travel, and the impacts of 2020-2021, business sentiment is unsurprisingly somewhat mixed.

On a positive note, businesses are telling us that for the first time in years, the road ahead seems clear, and there’s a growing confidence that we can just get on with it, with the sudden disruptions and surprises of the “Covid lockdown era” behind us.

While we can see further down the road ahead with clarity, however, the view isn’t necessarily a good one.

The costs of doing business are spiralling along with inflation, impacting supplies and other inputs like energy bills.

At the same time, the record shortages of workers and skills have been driving up wage bills. In a small city with a limited pool of labour,

businesses compete for talent against one another, the public sector, and interstate counterparts. So, while there has been discussion over the past year about real wages keeping pace with inflation, many businesses here in Canberra have been paying increases of 10 to 25 per cent to hire and keep the people they need, and one-off sign on and retention payments are becoming more common.

For small businesses that are focused on looking after consumers, it is a triple whammy. They are experiencing rapidly rising costs, but doing everything they can not to pass those increases onto consumers, drive inflation further, and risk losing customers.

Their customers have less disposable income and less to spend. So, while we may see plenty of people in a shop or restaurant, they might be spending only 70 per cent of what they were a year ago. Retail spend statistics might show healthy spending, but a component of this reflects the significant additional cost of buying the same goods and services.

In February, we experienced the ninth increase to interest rates since May last year. And while attention is understandably focused on the squeeze that higher mortgage payments place on households, businesses are also suffering the cost of rising interest rates through loans on their buildings, capital assets such as machinery, and to cover the ongoing costs of their operations.

When margins are lower for small businesses, that means incomes are down for owners and their families as the costs of living grow and interest rates continue to climb.

There’s no doubt that the road ahead will be challenging. We urge you to remember there are 33,000 local businesses and 63 per cent of our jobs are in the private sector; 97 per cent are small family-owned businesses employing fewer than 20 people.

In Canberra, business matters, and the months ahead are time to show support for the local businesses who looked after our community over the past few difficult years.

If you are interested in participating in this FREE PROGRAM or wanting to learn more, please contact us on 1800 699 799 or visit our website at dementia.com.au/dsa-staying-at-home

Gentleman’s lack of parking spaces in new apartments is disturbing

Firstly, there were two worrying developments federally this past week. Tanya Plibersek, Federal Minister for the Environment and Water, stopped a coal mine in Central Queensland going ahead, thus sending all the wrong messages to investors and making it harder for 300 million Indians to be brought out of poverty, not to mention threatening our energy security.

Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong announced, of all things, an Australian Ambassador for Diversity. A journalist should ask, for starters, our new Ambassador to define for us what a woman is, and also how much this is costing the taxpayer.

Neither announcement could be said to be in Australia’s best interests.

Back in Canberra, planning minister Mick Gentleman’s recent announcement that all new apartment blocks in the ACT will have less parking available is disturbing, to say the least. The reason given is that people living in their

apartments will not need a car.

Now, I like public transport. I regularly catch a bus, and also park and ride. These days, there is little parking in Civic. I also catch the tram, and love to travel by train to see family and friends in Sydney, Wollongong, and elsewhere in NSW. I even took the train to Melbourne last year for a veterans’ rugby game. In my view, we should ditch stage 2 of the tram, and work out better and more cost-effective ways of getting more people into public transport.

However, I’ve got news for Mr Gentleman. Even if we had a better public transport system, and whilst the number of people taking public transport is now up to about 8 per cent of ACT residents, Canberrans still depend on having access to a car. The tram is not the answer. It can’t go everywhere, and is slow, overpriced to build, and 19th century technology. Buses also can’t go everywhere. Many people need to hop

into their car to go to another part of Canberra for work purposes, and even people who live on public transport routes and usually take public transport need to go to an outer suburb to, for example, play sport or see friends and family.

Many people living in apartments like to go to the snow or the South Coast, and it is simply impossible to do so effectively by public transport.

This illogical proposed plan needs to be radically altered. One wonders why it was flagged in the first place. I suspect the developers might well have something to do with it, as fewer car spaces mean it’s a lot cheaper for them to build the apartments, and thus increases their profit margins.

Despite the huge effort of the ACT Government to force people into public transport, the usage rates have not improved much in 30 years. In 1990, it was about 6 per cent. Canberrans love their cars, and for good reason, due to the design of the city. Bad call, Mick! Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Canberra Weekly

This exhibition is supported by Visions of Australia and the National Collecting Institutions Touring and Outreach Program.

SOLACE CREATIONS 17success CELEBRATES YEARS OF

This Friday, 17 February, marks 17 years of local family business, Solace Creations, helping Canberrans to improve their homes. One of the very first double-glazing businesses in the ACT is now a household name, and residents are well acquainted with Karen from Solace Creations – a previous Canberra Business Woman of the Year and Telstra Entrepreneur of the Year.

But did you know the last 10 years of success almost never came to be?

“Seventeen years ago, we started the business in the loungeroom of our house in Kambah,” Karen tells Canberra Weekly.

“I noticed a gap in the market where Canberrans were not insulating our windows and doors properly and it wasn’t easy to find good quality double glazing,” she says.

Solace Creations was just one part of Karen and her then husband’s construction business, of which he was the builder.

“I had two little babies, and customers would come to our house while the babies were sleeping to buy windows.”

Today, all five of Karen’s children, aged 16 to 31, work with her at Solace Creations – including those two little babies, Tyler and Riley, who now provide top-quality installations to the community.

“We still have returning customers who first visited the house when the babies were there,” smiles Karen.

Before the kids grew up, and before

she was an established name in the community, Karen was forced to restart from scratch and go at it on her own as a single mum.

Following her divorce in 2011, and her ex-husband taking the building company in the split, Karen faced the decision of leaving behind five years of hard work, or “starting from ground zero”.

She chose the latter.

“There were periods of time where I couldn’t even pay myself,” she says.

“If there’s one message I would like to give to others who are in that position today, it’s that moment when you are so close to giving up is often a sign that you’re really close to a breakthrough.”

For Karen, that breakthrough came in 2014, when Solace Creations won Telstra’s Micro Business of the Year award.

“That win catapulted me into my future success – it was the beginning. Before that, I was applying to get back into the public service, but the universe had other plans.”

The publicity she received from her win put Karen and Solace Creations on the map and lined her up for Canberra Women in Business naming her their Business Woman of the Year in 2015.

Soon after, she was able to move into the company’s current showroom in Fyshwick – a huge win for the family business.

Her eldest, Hannah, joined the company and soon became her right-hand woman.

“In the last 10 years we’ve grown to a point where we have over 20 team

members and double glaze over 500 homes a year,” says Karen.

“I just want to thank the Canberra community for having faith in Solace Creations. We have had thousands and thousands of customers who took that leap of faith with us.

“And with Australia’s new 7-star energy e ciency building standards, we are well placed to take the community even further, and create solace in their homes.”

Starting in October this year, the National Construction Code states that all new homes must be built with a minimum energy e ciency of 7 stars, as opposed to 6, meaning single-glazed windows are a thing of the past.

That will mean a lot of new cowboys joining the market, says Karen, “a market that we’re 17 years ahead of”.

Karen was able to pay it forward in 2021, when Solace Creations came on board Master Builders ACT’s

charity build in Strathnairn. The house was designed, built, and will be auctioned o by women to raise funds for local charities.

Karen is excited about the next installation of the Solace Creations journey.

“We’re just going to keep improving and looking after our customers in the community,” she smiles.

To find out more, visit solacecreations.com.au or meet Karen and the team at their studio, 17 Townsville Street, Fyshwick. For a complimentary home consultation and quote, call 6260 1621 or email quote@solacecreations.com.au

Successful Canberra business woman Karen Porter works with all five of her children in the family business, Solace Creations.

Meet the Solace Creations showroom team: Penny Brayshaw, Lucy Ferry, Karen Porter and Noni Hayes.

Chief Architect Michelle Graham redefines what women working in IT looks like

When Australia’s Chief Architect for Department of Home Affairs, Michelle Graham, was crowned 2022’s WICked Woman of the Year, she had a message for the women in the crowd: “Take a risk. Do something that scares you and excites you.”

For Michelle, that risk was raising her hand for a two-year position in war-torn Iraq.

The WIC in ‘WICked’ stands for Women in Information and Communications Technology.

A far cry from the “guy coding in a hoodie” she says is often associated with IT, Michelle utilised her specialisation in cybersecurity and architecture to advise the Secretary of Defence and Prime Minister of Iraq in 2008.

“We were helping them re-establish their government, but it was a war zone being bombed every day, multiple times a day.

“I did that for almost two years. It was the best job I’ve ever had, and it absolutely frightened me.”

During her time in Iraq, Michelle led the eradication of landmines that surrounded the city of Baghdad. “[For years] before I arrived, the coalition had tried

to get rid of them, but they weren’t having much luck because the Iraqis had other priorities.”

Michelle found she had a unique opening to develop a close working relationship with leaders in the Iraqi government, in a setting that was out of bounds for her male colleagues: family functions.

“Quite a few people thought that because I’m a woman, it would be too difficult, but it ended up being the opposite because I was allowed to spend time with their families.”

She sought to understand what these priorities of the senior leaders were, their family systems, and how they affected what was most important to them.

“The Iraqi people were just like us,” said Michelle. “They just wanted running water, and electricity, to just get their children to school.

“They agreed. We got the Red Cross in and got the landmine removal program happening in an area where every day there were children playing, where locals were coming in and out of the green zone.”

While being the only woman in the room helped her in Iraq, Michelle said this was the greatest

challenge she faced at the beginning of her career.

“Eventually, you just get over it and get on with it, but as a younger person, without realising it, we look for people who are like us. We think ‘If they could do that, I could do that’.

From being the only woman in her PhD cohort, to being the only female Chief Architect in federal government, Michelle is dedicated to becoming the female mentor she was missing.

“What strikes me the most is that the next generation’s perception of what a woman in IT looks like is wrong.

“IT is so much broader than coding in a dark room,” said Michelle.

“If you think about our lifestyles today, there is almost nothing that doesn’t have a technology aspect to it anymore.

“We need to get role models out there so that they can visually see that, actually, this is what you can do with an IT degree.”

- Anja

de Rozario Read an extended version online at canberraweekly.com.au

After 29 years, JP knows Macca’s is ‘100 per cent adaptable’

Jean Pierre Neves, known to everyone as JP, has spent almost two-thirds of his life watching McDonald’s family restaurants keep pace with an ever-evolving world.

Now aged 44, JP has come full circle and returned as restaurant manager of McDonald’s Dickson, where he got his first job at age 16.

“Sixteen is considered a bit of a late bloomer in McDonald’s terms,” he smiles. “I was just looking for a part-time job back then, and a lot of my friends worked at Macca’s.”

JP, a born and bred Canberran, grew up in

Belconnen and attended Charnwood High School.

Back in the summer of 1994, the old Civic McDonald’s was closing down, the Braddon Macca’s was about to open on the corner of Mort Street, and Summernats ‘94 was fast approaching.

“I got hired for the Braddon restaurant and was trained at their old Civic store. But Braddon over-hired a bit for its opening, and Dickson needed staff.”

Four years later, he would go on to win Macca’s Assistant Manager of The Year Award for NSW/ ACT in 1998.

JP had his first go around as restaurant manager

of McDonald’s Dickson in 2002 while also helping run McDonald’s Fyshwick and Manuka. He would later manage McDonald’s Kippax, Charnwood, Belconnen, and Yass.

“This is my 29th year on the job,” says JP. “I joined because my friends were here and stuck around for the same reason.

After almost three decades climbing the McDonald’s career path, JP says the company has been “massive in adapting to how the world changes”.

“If you had said to me 10 years ago that this is what stores would look like, I would have said ‘no

Jean Pierre Neves, aka JP, has returned to McDonald’s Dickson as restaurant manager after starting his Macca’s career right there in 1994.

I’ve still got friends from when I started and kept in touch with to this day, even after a lot of them moved away from Canberra.

way’. The amount of technology we use, from mobile apps to self-serve kiosks, is just amazing.”

When asked what he suspects the average Macca’s in Canberra will look like 10 years from now, JP says ‘who knows?’

“They’ll have a crack at everything, and usually succeed.”

Technology isn’t the only space in which McDonald’s has proved to be adaptable.

JP says the number one benefit of a career at McDonald’s is “it can be whatever you want to make it”.

“A lot of the current generation use it as a stepping stone, especially when they go to university, because the flexibility of our hours makes it so adaptable to their schedule.

“They can work in the morning, during the day, or overnight depending on their schedules, and earn their Cert II or III in retail while they do it,” says JP.

“And if you stick around once you have your degree, there are so many branches of the

McDonald’s company that need someone with your qualifications, from IT to advertising and marketing, to real estate and construction.”

Whether you’re going from crew member to national marketing manager, JP explains that the Macca’s career ladder doesn’t end in retail.

“The company will look at someone who’s working within the industry, rather than someone who hasn’t,” he says.

“Even if you haven’t had as much experience, you know how the business works, you have the worker mentality, and you know how to implement that as a former employee.”

But for the young Canberrans just like him on his first day at Dickson, JP says that if you’re looking for a part-time job, all you need is a smile and a willingness to learn at Macca’s.

“It’s one of the best first jobs you can have, if not the best – the skills you can gain, the friends you can make, the range of hours you can work.

“There have been times when we hired young

and shy people who don’t say very much and then three or four years later they are our assistant managers ‘learning the ropes’ through our certificate programs we offer which they can gain a qualification by just working.

“If they struggle with anxiety, we can work in small steps, starting in the kitchen and working their way to the front.

“In training, we focus on working shoulder-to-shoulder with them, so they learn how to do it the right way, and customers get the right experience.

“Anyone can work at Macca’s,” says JP.

“We’re always hiring, for any part of the day. Whether you’re looking for your first job, or a job that can fit into your schedule, our door is always open.”

To find out more about career opportunities at McDonald’s, visit careers.mcdonalds.com.au

One of the biggest changes at Macca’s in the past three decades has been how the stores embrace technology.

JP says the number one benefit of a career at Macca’s is “it can be whatever you want to make it”.

Multicultural Festival back after three-year absence

At long last, after a three-year absence, the 25th anniversary National Multicultural Festival will be held in Canberra this weekend, 17-19 February, – and multicultural affairs minister Tara Cheyne MLA is thrilled it’s back, bigger than ever.

The free, community-run festival celebrating the 170 cultures found in the ACT begins on Friday afternoon and finishes late afternoon on Sunday.

The “iconic extravaganza”, Ms Cheyne said, “will bring the heart of Canberra to life with incredible entertainment, a melting pot of cultures, countless cuisines from around the world, and a quintessentially Canberra experience for all.”

This year, there’s almost three times as much entertainment, Ms Cheyne said: eight stages featuring cultural talent and performances from across the globe; more than 100 individual performance groups; and 30 community showcases with their own lineup of entertainment and performers (including the first Afghan showcase).

Headline acts include Mitch Tambo, a First Nations entertainer and international sensation; American singer Lisa Hunt, who has sold more

than a million records worldwide; ARIA-nominated Punjabi-Australian singer Parvyn; multi-ARIA Award winning entertainer and Play School presenter Justine Clarke; jazz virtuoso James Morrison; and musician, actor, and children’s entertainer Jay Laga’aia.

They are supported by artists from around the world, including East Timorese reggae/ska favourites Dili Allstars; Tibetan singer and multiinstrumentalist Tenzin Choegyal, collaborating with the Phoenix Collective; the German musical and comedy group The Beez; and renowned contemporary South Sudanese singer Ajak Kwai.

For the first time, the festival will include 35 free hands-on workshops so communities can share their cultural heritage through dance, art, and language.

More than 250 food, drink, and information stalls will be spread throughout the festival. Another first for the silver anniversary event will be a dedicated cooking demonstration program at the City Walk stage across all three days. More than 15 community and professional chefs will share the stories and techniques behind cultural dishes from

Taiwan to Assyria, Peru to Thailand.

This weekend will be a scorcher: 33°C on Friday, 34°C on Saturday, and 32°C on Sunday, so be SunSmart. Use public transport if possible. Free shuttle buses will run from Belconnen, Woden, the Parliamentary Triangle, and Russell to the Festival, until 11.30pm on Friday and Saturday nights. For more information, visit nationalmulticulturalfestival.com.au

Tara Cheyne MLA and members of the National Multicultural Festival Community Panel Reference Group.

Photo ACT Government.

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Science and Health

WITH THE KEY TO THE SCRIPTURES

by

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Baker Eddy

The textbook of Christian Science Spiritual healing explained

After suffering three years I heard of Christian Science, … I took Science and Health and applied its teachings as best I could. In three days the trouble completely left me and there has never been the slightest return. My health has been good ever since, and I am at present in perfect physical health.

Science and Health p615

Purchase Science and Health at the Bookshop and Reading Room, corner Macquarie & Bligh Streets Barton 11.00-2.00 Mon-Fri or the online shop at christianscience.com

FOR MORE INFORMATION: CHRISTIANSCIENCECANBERRA.COM OR 04 0827 4498

I wonder if the women of Canberra have noticed a marked rise in the amount of street abuse they receive from other women, typically middle aged?

In the past week, I have been twice verbally abused in public, both times when I was acting in complete privacy. The first, on public transport, when a bus route went down the wrong road, I alerted the driver (I was right), but a toothless female passenger yelled out that I was a “stupid [female dog]”. And on 12 February in the car park of an animal hospital, collecting the ashes of my recently-deceased pet, another middle-aged woman who had just blocked access to myself and another vehicle with her own car (I said nothing, but patiently waited for her to unblock access), she screamed (yes!) at me over the car park because I did not speak with her, yelling “I am apologising, you [female dog]!” In both cases, I had zero interactions with either of these females, but they hurled disgusting abuse in public, to someone they do not know (me).

I hold a doctoral degree and my career is dedicated to advocating for women in professional fields. It seems that many women in the ACT community are appallingly misogynistic themselves. How sad that some in Canberra’s middle-aged female population should behave in this way. Even more regrettable that Canberra’s hard-working women, such as myself, should be subjected to this gutter-level abuse, by other women.

Is it too much to walk out one’s own door, mind one’s own business, and be treated with respect on the street? In Canberra, of all places.

- N Bourne, Phillip ACT

Our Chief Minister wants the ACT to have the highest Voice vote, thus matching our

gold medal Republican and Same Sex Marriage votes. Those issues were clear and unifying: respectively, the notion of ancestral blue blood is ridiculous, and gays deserve the same rights as anybody else. In contrast, the Voice is peppered with notions of ancestral black blood, and consequently remains muddy, divisive, and pessimistic.

- P Robinson, Ainslie ACT

I applaud Bill Stefaniak’s suggestion that defined benefits recipients of more than $100,000 per year be taxed on their benefits over that amount (CW, 2 Feb 2023, p8). I have a suggestion that is likely to be equally unpalatable and perhaps as remunerative as Bill Stefaniak’s. Place a ‘temporary deficit levy’ on the deceased estates of all persons who were aged 60 and 60+ on January 1 2020. Notwithstanding the need to protect our farmlands which need to be treated differently if owned by Australians, when one is dead, one no longer has a pecuniary interest to feel selfrighteously protective over. The would-be direct beneficiaries of one’s estate will already be in their mature adulthood and variously well-placed; they and their children will still benefit from the estate, and it is always an unearnt bonus to receive from departed loved ones. The grandchildren of the cohort paying the levy will benefit from the paying down of the nation’s indebtedness. The bonus is that those of us who reaped the largesse of democratic socialism in the ‘70s and early ‘80s, who reaped the health benefits of an open and healthy semi-rural Australian lifestyle in the post war years, will truly give back as their last act upon this earth.

Disclaimer: I am a Baby Boomer; this would apply to my estate, too.

- M Riddell, Isabella Plains ACT

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As an Australian born and bred, in my sixties, the question as to whether we should change the date for Australia Day is a resolute YES. Why? Because the simple answer is that 26 January does not represent all Australians. It certainly doesn’t represent me, as my ancestors were not “First Fleeters”, it doesn’t represent the First Nations peoples, nor, I suspect, immigrants and refugees.

Having looked into this, it appears the best date to be 3 March. 3 March represents the date the Australia Act commenced. 1 January 1901 isn’t suitable as it primarily relates to 6 British Colonies changing into Australian States.

The importance of the Australia Act should not be underestimated. In 2003, the High Court held that the act “gave voice to the completion of Australia’s evolutionary independence ... it was a formal declaration that the Commonwealth of Australia and the Australian states were completely constitutionally independent of the United Kingdom.”

By the way, I’m all for a new national anthem and flag.

- R Soxsmith, Kambah ACT

Thank you, David Smith, for raising this in the public sphere. We now need to see it in reality.

- E Staples, Campbell ACT

Bill Stefaniak (CW 9 February 2023, p14) says he’ll express no definitive view on the Voice. He’s happy, however, to express an un-definitive one, including a deliberate misquote he attributes directly to the Prime Minister. Bill should also know that an Amendment expert task force is going through the draft wording announced by Anthony Albanese last July at Garma, to ensure the elimination of any vexatious legal challenges.

A Referendum is also totally different to the example he cites about ACT public meetings discussing legislation. A Constitutional Referendum is usually about asking Australians to simply say yes or no to a basic principle; like that spelled out in the Garma draft (a final version, soon to be available, is likely to be little different apart perhaps from a few legal tweaks). The simple principle we’ll vote on is: do we want to see the historic uniqueness of our First Australians acknowledged in the Constitution through a right to have their views heard by the parliament?

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As the wife of a recently deceased former ‘Kiap’, I fully endorse MP David Smith’s call for a memorial to the Kiaps who served in preindependent PNG.

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It was a challenging and rewarding life and was geared to preparing the people and land of PNG for Independence, self government. It was never intended to be an exploited colony.

Many former Kiaps have left this world and it would be fitting that a memorial to all serving officers be created before the last passes away.

My husband was keen to see this happen, but it is too late for him, and so many others who are gone.

Finally, Mr Stefaniak conflates the Referendum with the more detailed structure and operation of the legislated Voice Advisory body itself. That will be decided by the Parliament after the Amendment is voted on. Everyone who wants to will have a chance to discuss and debate those details, including the Opposition having the capacity to offer suggestions it thinks will result in a more efficient and effective body. So far, there’s been silence from the political naysayers in this regard, including Mr Stefaniak.

- E Hunter, Cook ACT

Want to share your opinion?

Dementia Demolition Squad raises funds for research

Saturday 4 March will be a night of fun at the Canberra Deakin Football Club, with everyone from trivia lords to the quizzically challenged invited.

Theona Combos, a dedicated daughter leading the Dementia Demolition Squad in her mother’s memory, will host a trivia night fundraiser with every dollar raised going towards dementia and Parkinson’s research.

Five rounds, 10 to a table, and a whole plethora of prizes. There’s even something sweet in store for the biggest losers.

However, the true bounty will be hidden in the raffle on the night, with major prizes including a family zoo adventure valued at $600, a $300 Bunnings hamper, and a Challenge Flight in the B737 Flight Simulator valued at $250. Stephen Cenatiempo of 2CC will be the emcee on the night.

Although the cause could not be closer to Theona’s heart, she guarantees the fundraising is just a bonus to a night of fabulous surprises.

At age 65, Theona’s mum, Helen Poteris, was living life for her large family of adult kids, grandkids, siblings, nephews, and nieces.

“She was cooking every day,” says Theona. “No

one left mum’s home hungry or empty handed.

“As dementia set in, all of this slowed right down. Recipes were scrambled. Numbers confused. Ingredients forgotten. You see, mum’s recipes were all in her head.”

Helen’s dementia progressed rapidly.

“I used to ring her constantly to make sure she was okay. And then it got to a point where she couldn’t pick up the phone.

“My mum did not deserve what happened to her. No one does,” Theona says.

“Mum couldn’t walk or talk for the last six years of her life. I became her voice, her advocate.

“I stood by her as friends and family – all the many she had fed and nurtured all these years –slipped away and stayed away.

“‘She doesn’t recognise me,’ they say. ‘But you do,’ I would say! You remember this woman who has done so much for you.

“The message I would like to get out to families is don’t give up on your person. They need love and attention from everybody, not just from one person.”

Theona and her husband Peter began fundraising for a cure in 2016, supporting Neuroscience Research Australia in Sydney. The

Helen and Emmanuel Poteris Award, also named for Theona’s father who died of Parkinson’s at age 68, will sponsor its seventh PhD student this year. Dementia Trivia Night, 4 March, Canberra Deakin Football Club: Tickets: $35 each, $300 table of 10; trybooking.com/events/landing/1004210

- Anja de Rozario

Theona Combos remembers parents, Helen and Emmanuel Poteris, for whom she is holding a trivia night to raise $7,000 towards dementia and Parkinson’s research.

Photo Kerrie Brewer

PHOENIX ICT SOLUTIONS

AUSTRALIAN MISSILE CORPORATION wi TO PARTNER TO SUPPORT GWEO

Phoenix ICT Solutions is pleased to announce that it has signed a Letter of Intent with The Australian Missile Corporation (AMC). The AMC was invited to become an Enterprise Partner of the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) enterprise in April 2022 and has since been engaged by the Commonwealth of Australia to assess national industrial capability and readiness to support GWEO outcomes.

Phoenix ICT Solutions has identified several opportunities to cooperate with the AMC including Cyber Security Assurance, Electronic Warfare, C4ISR, Systems Engineering, Test and Evaluation activities.

Phoenix ICT Solutions CEO, Vijay Selvarathinam, said, “We are thrilled to work with AMC and its network of partners to assist in the

NEWS

delivery of this iconic Australian Defence Program.”

Phoenix ICT Solutions is an Australian SME headquartered in Canberra and has recently expanded its portfolio to include information technology, intelligence, systems engineering, and other in-demand capabilities centred in the Defence and National Security space. This expansion also increases Phoenix ICT Solutions service o ering to Defence from strategic business advice, architecture and design to data science and systems engineering and integration, and grows its cadre of clients to now include the Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, Head Quarters Joint Operations Command, Chief Information O cer Group, Army Head Quarters, DIO, Australian Cyber Security Centre and Space Command.

Helping ACT looks to expand school breakfast program

Last week, Tuesday 7 February, marked the first delivery of 2023 to one of the only free school meal programs currently operating in the ACT. This is in spite of 12 per cent of children in Canberra living in low-income households.

Mohammed Ali of Helping ACT began delivering free breakfast supplies to Mount Stromlo High School in September last year.

“Now we are spreading the word. We can easily accommodate two to three more schools,” he said.

He urges schools that feel they may have any number of students who would benefit from food assistance to contact Helping ACT.

The bounty of muesli bars, cereal, Up & Go’s, and more, comes from the Helping ACT pantry, which is stocked by community donations.

On average, 30 students attend each week, with as many as 45 students attending ‘breakfast club’ last year.

“We need our youngsters, our children, to thrive and have nutritious food. As Canberrans, we can definitely afford it,” says Mohammed.

“No one should go to sleep or school hungry

in Canberra.”

He explains that families who require food assistance apply through the Helping ACT website and fill out a form indicating which items they are most in need of.

“Written in almost every request was ‘school snacks’. That tells us that families are struggling to fill their kids’ lunch boxes.”

Mohammed worries that an “underclass” is forming in Canberra due to the rising cost of living.

“It is becoming more and more difficult for families to make ends meet, and this is Canberra-wide.

“We have identified that one in 10 people in Canberra need food assistance.”

Mohammed insists that it is just as important to address the “flip side” to that statistic.

“That means nine out of 10 people in Canberra can easily serve that one person. That is not a level of optimism that we are unable to meet.

The ACT government announced in September 2020 that they would trial a free breakfast and lunch program, three days a week, at five public schools.

Despite this announcement being made almost two and a half years ago, the trial is yet to take effect.

When approached by CW for comment, an ACT Government spokesperson said, “The Education Directorate is working with school principals to identify five public schools to participate in a staged rollout of the Meals in Schools pilot during 2023.” Visit helpingact.org/help to apply for food assistance.

- Anja de Rozario

Sainath Mallapur, Mohammed Ali and Basil La Brooy of Helping ACT deliver supplies to the free breakfast program at Mount Stromlo High School.

Photo Kerrie Brewer

Vijay Selvarathinam – CEO of Phoenix ICT Solutions and Director, Phoenix Group of Companies.

HAVE YOU HEARD?

community noticeboard  email news@canberraweekly.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field

GIVIT seeks football registration fees

GIVIT is working with a community organisation in the ACT that is currently supporting a single mother with six children who recently arrived in Australia from Afghanistan. The organisation is requesting support to cover football club registration fees for the five brothers who have always excelled in football but are suffering from post-traumatic stress. The registration fee is $454.95 for each brother. To fund this request, please visit givit.org.au/whats-needed, search Category: Football registration fee; Location: ACT.

Marymead Garage & Plant Sale

Marymead’s first event for 2023, the Summer Garage & Plant Sale, is on Saturday 18 February 9am-1pm at 255 Goyder Street, Narrabundah. There will be a large variety of plants, clothes, books, homewares, jewellery, bric-a-brac, handbags, craft, toys, accessories and more! All proceeds will go towards supporting Marymead.

Kippax Marketplace

Kippax Uniting Church will hold its first 2023 Marketplace on Saturday 18 February 9am-1pm. Individual market stalls, barbecue, jumping castle, coffee van, a hall full of pre-loved kitchenware and homewares and a cake stall. Community donations welcome on Friday 17. More info: kippax.marketplace@gmail.com

Ukrainian vigil

On Friday 24 February 10am-5pm, the local Ukrainian community, their friends and supporters will hold a vigil in front of the Embassy of the Russian Federation in Canberra to mark the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. More info: Andrew 0416 241 441.

Free preview of Fragments

Canberrans can get a sneak preview of Fragments, an award-winning Canberra web series on youth mental health, at a free screening and Q&A at the National Film and Sound Archives on Thursday 23 February 6pm. Supported by the ACT Government through artsACT, the Fragments web series will be launched by the ACT Arts Minister, Tara Cheyne, followed by a screening and a Q&A with the creative/production team. Bookings via Eventbrite.

Bold Bandannas charity stall

Relay for Life Team, the Bold Bandannas will hold a stall at the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets in the Piazza on Saturday 25 February 8am-5pm to raise funds for Cancer Council ACT. There will be: homemade preserves, handsewn items, crocheted items, a cot quilt, worm juice for your plants, and philatelic items. More info: call Jan on 6231 0761.

Dementia Support Australia

A new program for carers and people living with dementia will be held at Sutton on 7-9 March. Dementia Support Australia is running Staying at Home, an Australian Government-funded, no cost to participants, innovative three-day/two-night residential program to empower people living with dementia and their carers to continue living together at home for as long as possible, with effective methods for coping and caring. More info: dementia.com.au/dsa-staying-at-home or 1800 699 799.

VIEW Club

Gungahlin Day: The next meeting will be our AGM, on Wednesday 22 February 11.45am at Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club, Nicholls. All committee positions are now vacant and you are all encouraged to nominate. Cost: $35 for a two-course lunch. RSVP to Hilary on 0407 556 460 by 17 February 9pm.

Friends of ANBG Thursday Talks

On 23 February 12.30-1.30pm, ANU Emeritus Professor Patrick De Deckker will outline the extraordinary scientific discoveries and achievements of the French Baudin expedition of 1800–1804. More info: email talks@friendsanbg.gov.au

Friends of Ireland

Friends of Ireland invite you to join us for a St Brigid’s Day event to celebrate the strengths and achievements of women, on 23 February 6pm at Federal Golf Club. There will be kenote speakers, traditional Irish music, singing and dancing, and a trivia quiz. To register and order meals with Eventbrite, go to friendsofireland.org.au and click on Events 2023, Friends of Ireland Tickets.

Dementia Trivia Night

Raising funds for research into dementia and Parkinson’s disease, enjoy trivia, prizes, and a fantastic raffle on Saturday 4 March at Canberra Deakin Football Club. Tickets: $35 each, or $300 for table of 10, via trybooking.com/events/landing/1004210

Australian American Association’s Super Bowl LVII event, King O’Malley’s Irish Pub, Canberra. Photos: Kerrie Brewer.

Heidi Appleby, Kylie Waring

Mike Wagstaff, Chris Pockette

Neal Falzarano, Anna Richwood

Shelby Higgs, Cindy Young

Peter Barclay, Alicia Doherty, Connor Whitney

Mark Peisley, Archie Bolger Angus Wagstaff, Abu Khan Nic Pyne, Thomas Roderick

Food for thought

The latest in foodie news, events, and products, with CW Taste editor, Anja de Rozario.

We have it on good authority that the name ‘Canberra’ was derived from the Ngunnawal word for ‘meeting place,’ and fittingly so, a number of great collaborations have taken place here – the latest of which saw Women in ICT (WIC) team up with Underground Spirits to break barriers in the tech industry and create WIC Gin. A mix of natives and traditional botanicals, WIC Gin smells fruity and zesty, with sweet juicy notes of strawberry and Gumbi Gumbi. Underground Spirits CEO Claudia Roughley wants the gin to spark discussions around the challenges women face in male-dominated industries, slapping a bright pink label on a spirit that everyone will enjoy. “Distilling is an ancient craft – a science, traditionally done by men,” Claudia

said. “Just like the tech space is filled with talented and game-changing women, we also want to break down stereotypes and show women are leading the way in the distilling industry.” From each sale, $20 will go towards WIC events, awards, and initiatives that support girls and women in tech across all stages of their career. “We know that women are dropping out of ICT as young as 11,” said WIC President Tara Searle. “And yet, young girls are running the most amazing websites, online businesses, and social media … We want all women to envision themselves in digital and STEM.”

If you’ve been looking for an excuse to check out Highball’s new, bigger and boozier location, and a chance

to network with more women in Canberra, head down to 75 London Circuit on 20 February to celebrate the fourth birthday of CBR Gals – it may be the most fun you’ve ever had on a Monday night. The reigning Canberra Women in Business Young Business Woman of the Year, Rae Knopik invites one and all to CBR Gals’ famous Happy Hour event to get to know like-minded gals over a cocktail or two. Whether you’re new to Canberra, or a familiar face, everyone is welcome. Tickets are $24 and include bubbly upon arrival and some nibbles to graze on. Wear your favourite pink or orange outfit to make the vibes immaculate. Book your ticket at cbrgals.com/ event/gals-turn-four/

Canberrans are invited to sip, sample, and savour the world’s best gins at the first ever International Gin Festival, coming to University of Canberra’s UC Refectory on 30 June and 1 July. The two-day festival will

feature 120 different gins from 4pm to 7pm on each day, when guests are invited to “taste their way around the room”. Regular tickets are $70, and for $160 attendees can also participate in a masterclass featuring three unique Japanese craft gins. All drinks are covered by the ticket and all gin is available for take-home purchasing.

Visit ginevents.com.au for bookings.

Canberra Weekly tried and tasted! FebFast is halfway done, which hopefully means that many Canberrans have developed a taste for non-alcs. Let bad habits stay broken with Zeffer’s 0% Crisp Apple Cider. The kiwi brand is New Zealand’s first Zero Carbon cidery and has scored their Zero Carbon Business Operation certificate – so points for sustainability as well!

Zeffer’s 0% Crisp Apple Cider is available at Coles supermarkets nationwide at $14.99 per 4-pack.

Underground Spirits WIC Gin, $95, undergroundspirits.com.au.

Photo: @aopbranding

Canberra’s inaugural International Gin Festival will take place at the UC Refectory starting 30 June.

Sparrow-Folk reveals a Nice Pair at Courtyard Theatre

Hatching out of Canberra, Sparrow-Folk are sure to ruffle a few feathers – the right way – in their new show, Nice Pair. Before taking the show to Melbourne Comedy Festival and beyond, hometown audiences are invited to a preview at Canberra Theatre Centre’s Courtyard Studio on 2-3 March.

Juliet Moody and Cathy Crowley make up the dynamic duo, who shot to fame when their song, Ruin Your Day, went viral in 2014. Quickly becoming an anthem, the breastfeeding ballad took the internet by storm; Moody wrote the song when she was nursing her youngest child. The experiences she had when nursing in public – from stares to rude remarks – sparked the idea, which was originally something she wrote to share with friends.

She said she had seen serious articles written on the subject of breastfeeding in public, but no one had tackled it from a comedic point of view.

“It was a real experience, it happened to me and I was feeling awful and thinking to myself

‘people should not be treating people like this’,” says Moody.

Up to that point, the pair had never performed in a proper comedy show; they had put one on in Crowley’s backyard and taken part in a chalkboard gig they had signed up for.

Moody says Sparrow-Folk hadn’t set out to find a career in comedy, originally starting out with a band as an excuse to hang out together.

“Best friends who had no time to hang out and we’re both improvisors and did a few improv shows and realised we both loved song writing and goofing around,” smiles Moody.

Introduced by a mutual friend when they were working as drama teachers in Canberra, the pair connected instantly. The comedy/”glam folk” pair have travelled all over entertaining audiences with their shows, created from relatable moments from their lives. Moody has four children, aged from 10 to 23, while Crowley has a six- and three-year-old. Together, their families cover the whole parenting spectrum.

(continued page 34)

Sparrow-Folk preview their new live show, Nice Pair, for Canberra audiences at Canberra Theatre Centre, 2-3 March.

Sparrow-Folk reveals a Nice Pair at Courtyard Theatre

(from page 33)

Their songs and show are about all aspects of life. Before the pandemic they released a song about wearing leisure wear to formal functions. Moody says Trackie Dacks became a Covid anthem and they find things they are talking about resonate with a lot of people.

“It’s almost like we predicted it. It’s a melting pot, we are operating in this big soup,” she says.

With a bird inspired name, the pair say they are like your everyday shopping centre feathered visitor, one you can be relaxed around. They say they are constantly watching people, gathering crumbs and morsels of information to steal other people’s mishaps like a sparrow.

“We never assumed to be the big bright male birds of paradise,” says Moody.

“We’re more relatable,” agrees Crowley.

With one of the pair flying the nest and moving interstate, working on a show has become a bit trickier these days. They say they

can still catch up for a glass of wine or three over Zoom, however the delay makes it harder to harmonise. They have been teaching themselves how to navigate the distance, filming things separately and editing them together. Both agree their strength is in live performance, which is really just a catch-up of two best friends with a crowd.

“We feel with every new audience, we walk out going we are now best friends,” says Crowley.

“We like them to feel like they know us, and they’ve had a good night out with friends,” says Moody.

Wanting to shake things up, they brought on a director for their new show, with funding thanks to Arts ACT. Additional support came from Canberra Theatre Centre with the use of their space to really incubate the performance.

Guests to their Thursday night show are in for a treat, the launch of the Sparrow-Folk podcast, what the women say is the first and only

narrative musical podcast to come out Canberra. Adventures in SuBIRDia follows two middle-aged suburban-based women, Fox (Crowley) and Lark (Moody), as they dream of super stardom, armed with their ukuleles.

With the world slowly waking back up from the pandemic haze, Sparrow-Folk say there is no better time to grab your bestie, make a pair and share in some laughs at a live show. With a pair that made it big singing about breastfeeding, nothing is off the cards.

“We sometimes reveal things to the other person that they’re only hearing for the first time,” says Moody.

“You could see a therapist, or you could come see a comedy show,” smiles Crowley.

Join the fun with Sparrow-Folk in Nice Pair at The Courtyard Studio, Canberra Theatre Centre, 2-3 March; canberratheatrecentre.com.au

- Jessica Cordwell

FreshOut Fair Day 2023

Part of the Canberra Enlighten Festival

This year, we’re amping up the energy with Enlighten Festival, along with a fresh new brand, themed spaces and nonstop entertainment for families, youth, adults, and those young at heart!

Get reacquainted with Distant Friends at Megalo

The Covid-19 pandemic switched a dinner and movie night out to shared streaming and eating over devices, and while we remained connected, the distance between us was vast. Canberra artist Peter McLean was inspired by the digitisation of friendships in his new exhibition Distant Friends, on display at Megalo Print Studio until 25 March.

The portraits featured in the exhibition are of people the artist knows, taken from their social media pages, mostly with permission during a time when they couldn’t connect in person.

“We could have been old school and written letters, but mostly didn’t; we used digital tools to

then it’s that image, you can reprint it, but you put another image on. This system means I build the image print from it and then that literally gets pulled apart,” he says.

At a distance the portraits are clear, then as you get closer, each image begins to blur, eyes lose their sparkle, becoming colours and squares. Much like how conversations over video were still possible, something about them became more distorted, so to with these pieces. McLean says our brain makes up the information.

“It’s about how keyed in we are to recognise faces, such as survival instinct to be able to recognise a face, hence why we see them in himself, and two to be displayed and sold.

Inspired by the Covid-19 pandemic, Peter McLean’s Distant Friends exhibition is on at Megalo Print Studio until 25 March.

Photo Kerrie Brewer

DARREN COGGAN AND DAMIEN LEITH PRESENT

Take 5 with Angel Strawbridge, star of Escape to the Chateau

Dick and Angel Strawbridge have kept audiences captivated with their adventures renovating a French castle in Escape to the Chateau. For the first time, the couple bring their live show to Australia, coming to Canberra Theatre Centre on 8-9 March. CW ’s Jessica Cordwell caught up with Angel to discuss renos and dreams.

1

What can audiences expect?

Many will know our chateau adventures, but less will know of how we got to live in a beautiful chateau with two beautiful children. So, the first half the show is our story, our past, and how we found each other and the chateau. This is a love story, after all!

After the interval we have a bit of fun and play chateau bingo with prizes up for grabs. The items are parts of the chateau’s past, so the winners can literally say they own a bit of the chateau!

2

What drew you to the chateau originally?

It had nearly everything on our wish list … we had searched for years to find the one and with its fairy-tale turrets, moat, and walled

garden, how could we not fall in love?!

3

Were you interested in renovations before buying the property?

Very much so – Dick can turn his hand to pretty much anything and loves the engineering and problem solving in everything. I’m more interested in the cosmetic element, but it’s a good match! Neither of us is afraid of a bit of hard work. We know that old buildings need a lot of TLC, so we were fully prepared to get stuck in with a renovation.

4

How did buying a home turn into a hit television series?

We had made the decision to move to France for the lifestyle it offered. When we discovered

we could buy a chateau with the potential to turn our home into a business, which also meant we could be around more for our young children, we felt that the challenges and achievements could make happy TV!

5

What’s next for you?

Our trip Down Under is a dream come true for our whole family – we are so excited for this adventure! We have more TV, a new book, and some other exciting projects in the pipeline which we also can’t wait to share later this year. Catch Dick and Angel in Dare to Do It at Canberra Theatre Centre, 8-9 March; canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Dick and Angel Strawbridge bring the behind-the-scenes story of Escape to the Chateau to Canberra Theatre Centre on 8-9 March.

WIN! BIG4 Easts Holiday Park getaway

Win with The Royal Canberra Show and BIG4 Batemans Bay at Easts Riverside Holiday Park! Enjoy three nights in a two-bedroom Waterfront Cabin (conditions apply), for one lucky Canberra Weekly reader!

Nestled on the shores of the beautiful Clyde River, the award winning BIG4 Batemans Bay at Easts Riverside Holiday Park offers spectacular views of crystal clear waters during the day and alluring glows from the Batemans Bay town centre at night. Embark on the many nature and water-based adventures on offer, enjoy the fabulous park facilities, or take the five-minute stroll into town for fantastic shopping and dining experiences.

Enter to win

To enter, visit canberraweekly.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find this competition and follow the entry instructions. Entries close

The Canberra Retirement Village & Resort Expo

Sunday 26th & Monday 27th February 2023

Canberra Southern Cross Club 92-96 Corinna St, Woden ACT 10am-3pm daily | FREE ADMISSION

On display will be the latest resort style developments as well as established villages from many different organisations, all offering a wide range of services & facilities, sizes, prices and locations. This is a wonderful opportunity to ask questions and gather information about many different retirement villages and over-50s resorts all under one roof.

That’s art and entertainment

CW Time Out editor Jessica Cordwell brings you the latest in arts and entertainment news from around the Canberra region. Highlights this week include the GTM line-up and a tour through history and glass.

Tour history, glass, and art

Locals are invited to take a peek behind the scenes of the national capital’s oldest public building, the Canberra Glassworks.

Running every Wednesday and Friday, a guide walks you through the history of the building from when it was instrumental in providing electricity for building our city to now. Discover remains of its old days and see its transformation into one of the country’s leading glass making facilities.

Learn how artists craft incredible pieces of art, jewellery and homewares on the hot shop floor. If you want to make your own piece, you can

undertake a tile making class for an additional fee.

Walk through history at Canberra Glassworks, every Wednesday and Friday; canberraglassworks.com

Moosic line-up announced

Groovin the Moo (GTM) is making its way to Canberra’s Exhibition Park, stopping in on Sunday 23 April.

The travelling festival has announced a stellar line-up of homegrown and international acts; from the UK, Fatboy Slim, alt-j, Eliza Rose, Laurel, Skepta and Sophie May, while bbno$, Denzel

Curry, Omar Apollo and Slayyyter travel from the US and Canada.

Homegrown heroes Ball Park Music, Ocean Alley and Amy Shark are sure to get people moving. Canberra’s own Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers are on the line-up; keeping with the teen theme is Teenage Dads and Teenage Joans; Triple j Unearthed artists, and local programs still to come.

Find the full line-up and tickets at gtm.net.au

Recording a year of unrest

The Polish Embassy is marking a year of the Russian invasion of Ukraine with a free screening of Mahsa & Valentyna at Kambri Cultural Centre, ANU, Tuesday 21 February.

The documentary follows two women, Masha, 17, and Valentyna, 41, who fled their homes in Ukraine to cross the Polish border following the Russian invasion. Two of an estimated seven million women and children to have entered Poland last year, they were able to find safety in homes there. However, they remain spilt from their families who have been spread across Europe.

Filmed mainly by the women themselves, the

Canberra Glassworks Weekday Behind-the-Scenes History Tour. Courtesy of Canberra Glassworks.

documentary gives the viewer an intimate insight into their lives. Australian director Simon Target hosts a Q & A after the screening. Masha & Valentyna, Kambri Cultural Centre, ANU 21 February 7.30pm; eventbrite.com.au

Hit music show gets a revamp

Relive the sounds that rang out on the airwaves during the turbulent times of the 1960s-70s in Good Morning Vietnam, Volume Two, premiering at The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre on 5 March.

After the success of their first show, Good Morning Vietnam, Music from the Vietnam War Era - Live in Concert, the band is back with more hits from the war years. Musical director, Simon Gardener said they were often approached after shows asking about the songs they didn’t play, so they created a second instalment.

Returning with the performers audiences loved in the first show, they will be reimagining a new list of tracks. Creedence Clearwater Revival, Johnny Cash, and The Doors are just a few of the names to appear on the line-up that features songs of political turmoil and cultural change.

Images and videos of flowers, soldiers and

protests accompany the songs and $1 from every ticket sold goes to the Guitars for Veterans organisation.

Good Morning Vietnam, Volume Two at The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, Sunday 5 March 2pm; theq.net.au

Frontline Workers commemorated Now on at Canberra Museum and Gallery until

30 July, the Stronger Together exhibition shines a light on those who have helped the community most over the past few years.

Our frontline workers have worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic, and their resilience has been captured in a series of photographs and watercolours. From inside and around vaccination and testing centres, our Covid-19 story is told.

Voices and experiences of those health workers behind the scenes, such as epidemiologists and contact tracers, have been told through an audio-visual installation to create the full picture of Canberra’s response. Stronger Together at Canberra Museum and Gallery until 30 July; cmag.com.au

Marzena Wasikowska, Epic Covid-19 Testing Clinic 1 2022, digital photograph, courtesy Canberra Health Services and the artist.

Good Morning Vietnam, Volume Two brings the hits of the wartime period to The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 5 March.

TIME OUT

WIN! AMPLIFY Tributes at the Arboretum tickets

AMPLIFY Tributes at the Arboretum brings together three of Australia’s finest tribute bands: Diamond, Elton out of the Closet, and BABBA –enjoy the sounds of a generation that keep on giving! See out summer at the amphitheatre, bring a picnic blanket, choose from a range of food and beverages, and enjoy the dynamic live show at Canberra’s most scenic location. The VIP experience gives you an enjoyable and seamless evening with exclusive bar, delicious catering, dedicated VIP parking, front stage access and beach chair.

When: Saturday 25 February, gates open 5pm.

Tickets: General Admission $90, Concession $75, Family of 4 $230 (2A, 2C), VIP $190. Bookings: http://tix.yt/amplify-tributes

CW has 5 x AMPLIFY Tributes at the Arboretum general admission double passes (two tickets worth $90 each) to be won.

Enter to win

To enter, visit canberraweekly.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find this competition and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Thursday 23 February 2023 and winners drawn same day. Winners must be able to attend. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.

Now showing

Tár (M)

In New York, Lydia Tár (Cate Blanchett) plans her upcoming live recording of Mahler’s Fifth Symphony, and book, Tár on Tár. As the first female chief conductor of the Berlin Philharmonic, Lydia is flanked with a personal assistant Francesca (Noémie Merlant), and her wife and concertmaster Sharon (Nina Hoss). Soon, Lydia receives a book from a former, unhinged, Accordion fellow, Krista.

The movie starts thick and slow, with Tár pontificating on her upcoming work, her inspiration for music, and her conducting process and procedure in that she controls both the time and motion of her orchestra. Tár thunders through her life balanced between teaching, conducting, and homelife, all the while navigating the political landscape of the competitive and transactional classical music community.

In her position of power, Tár holds the cards on many people’s fates: one false move and it may all come down. In this character study, Tár is both an antagonist and protagonist, not neatly fitting into a moral preconception. Is Tár simply acting like any other CEO, doing all that she can to succeed in such an environment or is she morally and criminally culpable for her questionable behaviour?

Unlike Darren Aronofsky’s Black Swan, Tár is reserved and measured, with only a dashing of Gothic horror for a bit of ‘colour’: Tár is ironically haunted by sound, which may or may not be external from her increasingly troubled mind. Verdict: A restrained exploration of a complex character in a confounding environment, worlds away from her physical, spiritual and musical origins. 4 stars.

- Luke McWilliams | themovieclub.net

Viewed at Palace Cinemas

Book talk

This week, Michael Popple recommends three outstanding examples of Australian crime fiction. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.com

How to Kill a Client

by Joanna Jenkins

Allen & Unwin, $32.99

Gavin Jones was not a good man when he died young. The in-house lawyer for a major mining company, Jones enjoyed the sycophantic admiration of Australian legal firm Howard Greene, who relied on his patronage for their survival. However, his manipulations and destructive behaviour towards women led many to wish him dead. But who finally killed him? This is a clever debut from Joanna Jenkins who uses her experiences as a lawyer to create a powerful mystery that looks at the dark side of the legal profession. Shocking and highly addictive, this is a very impressive novel from a talented new author.

Red Dirt Road

by S. R. White Headline, $32.99

In the deep outback town of Unamurra, two men have been murdered, their bodies displayed as obscene artworks. With no cooperating witnesses, unconventional Detective Dana Russo is flown in to solve the crime. Isolated and working against the clock, Russo needs to discover which of the 80 residents of Unamurra is the killer. But to solve the crime, Russo first needs to understand the town’s weird society and dark secrets. White produces another unique and deeply compelling rural Australian mystery with Red Dirt Road. Featuring a striking setting and a complex case, it will keep you guessing right to the end.

The Death of John Lacey

by Ben Hobson

Allen & Unwin, $32.99

John Lacey is a power-hungry villain who has managed to gain control of the Australian goldfields, twisting the treasure hunters to his designs. His influence looks absolute until outlaw brothers Ernst and Joe Montague ride into town, bringing chaos, disorder and retribution. Their actions will bring about a dangerous confrontation as Lacey’s hidden crimes are finally dragged into the light. One of Australia’s more distinctive writers returns with another intriguing read, as Ben Hobson presents a local take on the western genre. A fast-paced, visceral, and intense historical crime novel, it is very much worth a read.

Canberra Weekly competition winners

The winners in Canberra Weekly’s latest round of competition draws are: Never Surrender novels: S Gillard, Fraser; L Cormack, Fadden; R Whitehead, Gungahlin; J Brown, Wanniassa.

The Blue Caftan film passes: A Kendal, Kingston; B Wong, Canberra; M Fenning, Crace; P Gorton, New Acton; D Witheford, Canberra City.

15 February with PJ Williams

16 February with Stefanie Lekkas

18 February with Jay James-Moody

23 February with Elliot Cleaves

24 February with Zsuzsi Soboslay

what’s on

NATIONAL MULTICULTURAL FESTIVAL

For three glorious days, indulge your senses in a cultural feast of international cuisines, performances, and activities in the Capital’s favourite celebration of culture, the National Multicultural Festival.

Canberra City and Glebe Park, 17-19 February; multiculturalfestival.com.au

CRESSIDA CAMPBELL

Coming to an end is the lauded Australian artist’s largest exhibition, with more than 140 works spanning her impressive career. Grazing by the Garden dining experience allows you to design your own meal inspired by Campbell’s love of gardens and food between friends.

National Gallery of Australia, until 19 February; nga.gov.au

CANBERRA CHORDSMEN

The Canberra Chordsmen, a men’s a cappella chorus in the barbershop four-part harmony style, are once again running their popular five-week Sing With Us program commencing 28 February for those gentlemen out there who love to sing.

Taylor Primary School, Kambah, from 28 February; canberrachordsmen.org.au

Find more listings at canberraweekly.com.au

To advertise here, contact Samantha on 0423 355 536 or samantha@canberraweekly.com.au

SHANNON’S WHEELS CAR DISPLAY 2023

With this year’s theme of Back to the 1950s, the fundraising event returns for the 41st time. See beautiful cars from that decade and beyond with proceeds going to local charities.

Queanbeyan Showground, 19 February 10am-1.30pm

Canberra Chordsmen invite the gentleman of Canberra to their Sing with Us program from 28 February.

Cressida Campbell, installation view, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra/ Kamberri, 2022 © Cressida Campbell

Presented by: Falun Dafa Association of Australia Inc.

Links Building Road Closed

Highlights

Pre-Purchased tickets with FREE Public transport on Buses & Lightrail canberrashow.org.au No cash at the gates. Entertainment across the entire day!

Lots of food & beverage stalls

Showbags & Carnival Get up close to see all the animals. Follow our FB & Insta for Show information & prizes @RoyalCanberraShow

In the Milking Barn

Noah’s Farm Thoroughbred Racing

At the Main Arena

Catching up with Stefania, lingerie model and role model in lingerie

It’s been over five years since Stefania Ferrario – one of the most famous models from the national capital since Lara Cox - graced the cover of Canberra Weekly. Now that she’s ‘made it,’ the 29-year-old is using her platform to speak up about animal rights, with millions watching.

When we last caught up with Stefania (27 July 2017), she had just been named one of the four faces of Melbourne Fashion Week, after being put on the map as the face of internationally renowned burlesque star, Dita Von Teese’s Australian lingerie line.

Soon after, she starred alongside body-positivity icons Lizzo and Ashley Graham in Swimsuits for All’s 2018 campaign, posing to Good as Hell in the Bahamas.

“Lizzo and I had a nude shower together and talked about boys,” she laughs, chatting with CW at her childhood home in Deakin.

“When I was 19, I jumped on a one-way Greyhound from Jolimont station to Southern Cross and just decided I was going to make it as a model from then on.

I didn’t have any idea how to get into the industry though.”

“I didn’t have contacts; I hadn’t been signed yet … But I just had that urge, that feeling to follow it. Narcissism maybe?” she laughs.

“It only took four years of hard work. Years of organising photo shoots with photographers, makeup artists, hair stylists here in Canberra … so much of my base happened here before I moved to Melbourne.”

Since then, Stefania has become a body-positivity icon in her own right, spearheading the

#DropThePlus movement, which rallied against the industry labelling anyone larger than a size 8 as a ‘plus-size’ model.

Then came 2020, a turning point for many, and Stefania was no exception

“I thought, ‘What’s the point of having all these massive platforms all about myself?’ I’ve spoken a lot about body positivity, but I still felt it was very ‘me, me, me’.

“On 1 January 2020, I went vegan after deliberating for years. I knew it was the right thing to do [but] when you’re participating in an act … it’s hard to see the forest for the trees.

“[Using my platform to speak about animal rights] just felt right. I didn’t have that fear of losing followers because I knew that would come with it, and I’d already gotten to where I wanted to be.”

While brainstorming with controversial animal rights activist Tash Peterson, Stefania thought of a new idea, and a nudie idea – lingerie protests for animal rights.

“My first lingerie job in 2013 was with Dita Von Teese. I was standing next to her, in my underwear, on Bourke Street [Melbourne].

“Eight years later, I’m on Bourke Street, in my underwear, holding an animal rights sign,” she laughs.

“It had such a fabulous response, especially in comparison to a lot of animal rights activism, because people don’t want to hear it. But we had cheeky signs that were a bit comical too, and it was just much more palatable for the average passer-by.

“Women were shouting ‘You go, girls!’ On the second one we ever did, a woman came up to us saying, ‘Oh my god, I’ve been vegan two weeks since I saw you guys out here in the city.’

“And then the next minute we

were seeing lingerie protests for animal rights in New York, and then one in Sweden, and then another in Germany … we had started a bit of a global movement.”

Not many could have guessed that the model/activist, in her nearly-naked glory, would have anything but confidence while posing on the busy streets of Melbourne.

“I was terrified!” says Stefania. “I was so scared. Even now, I’ve done four or five lingerie protests, and I still get nervous before them.

“Then, once I’m in my underwear, holding the sign, all of that just goes away. It just feels right. I could go for a couple of hours, in heels, in the street, in the middle of winter.”

- Anja de Rozario

Australian model and animal rights activist, Stefania, with her rescue rabbit Bambi, sat down with CW in her childhood home in Canberra.

Photo Kerrie Brewer

WITH WESLEY SMITH, DIRECTOR, LIVE WELL HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTRE MANUKA LIVEWELLNATURALLY.COM.AU

New hope for PTSD and depression sufferers

The wheels of medical regulation are often observed to move very slowly in Australia, which is why the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) decision to approve therapeutic use of psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms) and MDMA (ecstasy) came as a surprise to most.

The TGA, Australia’s regulator of medicines, elevated MDMA and psilocybin – previously deemed prohibited substances – to the status of medicines. In doing so, the TGA has made Australia the first country in the world to recognise psychedelics as medicines. This will enable approved psychiatrists to prescribe MDMA for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and psilocybin for Treatment Resistant Depression from July this year.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is common in the aftermath of traumatic experiences like sexual assault, war, violent crime or bullying. Following trauma, the nervous system can stay in a chronic state of heightened alert long after the trauma or threat has passed. PTSD sufferers typically re-experience the traumatic events again and again,

and consequently suffer from anxiety, episodes of panic, and exhaustion. In many cases, PTSD proves difficult to treat with standard therapy, as revisiting the trauma to try and understand it or process it proves too painful and distressing.

How does MDMA help?

Brain imaging studies on people taking MDMA showed it reduces activity in the amygdala (emotional processing) and hippocampus (memory and emotions). This reduction in brain activity may go some way to explain how it helps people revisit their traumatic experiences without being re-traumatised, in turn allowing for increased insight and memory. Therapists report the introduction of the psychedelic element allows the client to be with their traumatic memories without being overwhelmed by the profoundly negative effects that usually accompany the recall of their most frightening experiences and thoughts.

What is Treatment Resistant Depression?

As the name suggests, it’s a harder-to-treat depression

that has not improved following standard therapeutic strategies such as antidepressant medications. Current medications target neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, but when these don’t work, pharmaceutical options are limited.

How does psilocybin help?

In short, psilocybin has an ability to rewire the brain of depressed people, fostering greater connection between different regions of the brain and liberating them up from long-held patterns of rumination and excessive self-focus.

Whilst the TGA’s decision was widely applauded, some argued there was not yet enough evidence of safety and efficacy to warrant the move. However, I imagine that for those who are suffering with protracted depression or from PTSD, as well as their families and loved ones, this decision and the hope that comes with it was a very welcome one. Editor’s note: This wellbeing column provides information that is general in nature. Please always refer to your preferred health professional for advice suited to your personal healthcare requirements.

How to Feng Shui your home

Originating in ancient China, Feng Shui is the practice of arranging home furniture in living spaces to create a balance within the natural world. “Feng” means wind and “shui” means water, and the concept is derived from a traditional Chinese poem that explains how human life is connected and flows with the surrounding environment. Early Settler product manager Monica Porter shares with CW their top tips on how to Feng Shui your home.

WITH HOME EDITOR, ABBEY HALTER

Balance the elements

Feng Shui creates the formula for creating an inviting interior with a clever balance of colours, textures, and shapes. Honouring each of the five elements in a room is the cornerstone of Feng Shui:

• Earth: Tones of brown, orange, and yellow, and flat, square shapes.

• Metal: Shades of white and grey, metallic colours, and spherical, round forms.

• Water: Black and dark blue colours and pieces with curves or wavy characteristics.

• Wood: Hues of blue and green, and shapes of rectangles or columns.

• Fire: Look to fiery reds and triangular shapes.

Monica suggests mixing and matching the physical elements – a metal lamp, a plant, a wooden chair, an aquarium, and a candle.

Furniture placement

The furniture arrangement of your living room should warmly welcome and draw you into the room. Navigating the room with ease is a must! Having the back of your sofa facing the door will make the room feel closed off, so try and avoid this placement.

Add some plants

Bringing the outside world into your home can dramatically improve your Feng Shui, Monica

Can’t seem to pull your home together?

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

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www.journey-home.com.au

It’s important to use conscious colour choices when practising Feng Shui.

Decorating is… Colour, Wallpaper, Furniture, Rugs, Art, Lamps, Fabrics, Lights, Flooring, Curtains, Blinds, Furniture arranging, Upholstery – For downsizers to luxury homes

says. Try and add some foliage or flowers, either freshly cut from the garden or artificial.

Top tip: Add a few drops of essential oils to a faux stem arrangement for a beautiful floral or native gum smell.

Conscious colour choice

Monica says colours should be intentional. While you should always choose colours you’re naturally drawn to, Feng Shui experts lean towards a number of colour palettes ranging from warm neutrals to crisp greys. If you’re feeling adventurous this year and are keen to get yourself out of your comfort zone, try some colours considered lucky during the Year of the Rabbit – azure blue, apple green, red, and pearl white. Monica says she has been drawn to beautiful greens over the past six months.

Top tip: Add a personal touch of a quirky vase or cushion, or a pop of colour in an armchair to make your house feel like home.

Illuminate the space

A simple way to lift the mood in a room is to illuminate the space. To let natural light filter into the space during the day, consider sheer window furnishings, and create mood lighting

at night with table and floor lamps. Another way to bring light into a room is with mirrors. Try positioning one to reflect the outdoors, rather than your everyday home clutter, and it will assist in expanding your visual space.

Mixing and matching the five elements is a must-do for a Feng Shui styled space. Photos courtesy of Early Settler.

ACROSS

1 Graceful bird (4)

3 South a sian republic (10)

10 High-protein food pulse (7)

11 l argest of the Ryukyu islands, south of Japan (7)

12 Rump (8)

13 Of the nose (5)

14 Summit (4)

15 a n automatic weapon (7,3)

18 actually, truthfully (10)

20 Devoted followers (4)

21 Step-by-step guide (3,2)

23 Relating to cultivated land (8)

26 Of that (7)

27 c ontinuing (7)

28 Black and white (10)

29 Just (4)

PLAY UNLIMITED PUZZLES ONLINE

canberraweekly.com.au/puzzles

AquAR iu S JaN 21 – fEB 19

Monday’s new moon and supermoon provide a good time to begin new ventures, especially those that involve a financial or personal investment. Be guided by your intuition, but avoid making decisions now based on assumptions alone, and impulsiveness midweek.

pi SCES fEB 20 – MaR 20

Monday’s Pisces new moon and supermoon will be an excellent time to revitalise all aspects of your life, especially your health, wellbeing and work schedule. You may begin a fresh work project. Follow your instincts. Be optimistic but avoid being super idealistic.

AR i ES MaR 21 – aPR 20

Venus in Aries from Monday will put the focus on love and money. Monday’s new moon and supermoon will prompt a fresh daily or health routine that supports your goals more fully. Just avoid rash decisions midweek, as you may receive unexpected news.

BRAIN BUSTERS

1 On what date is a ll Saints’ Day celebrated?

TAu R u S aPR 21 – May 21

DOWN

1 a King’s c ounsel (coll) (4)

2 (Said or done) so often as to become tiresome (2,7)

4 Partner; colleague (9)

5 Shine (5)

6 city in southern france (7)

7 tests (5)

8 front stories (9)

9 Perfect (4)

14 Indifferent (9)

16 Mirthful (9)

17 Subtle change by degrees (9)

19 uS writer (1817–62), Henry David – (7)

22 Revolver (5)

23 Horrible (5)

24 c arpets (4)

25 unsightly (4)

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

2 Which former f ilipino first lady gained notoriety for her extensive collection of shoes?

3 Grease was filmed at the same los a ngeles high school as which 1980s classic film starring Molly Ringwald?

4 Whose company originated the design for what would become the Eiffel tower?

5 What is the name of charlie Brown’s dog in the the Peanuts comic strip?

SOLUTIONS

You’ll enjoy socialising and your favourite past-times. Monday’s new moon and supermoon will encourage you to turn a corner with your career, status and direction. If your current circumstance has become restrictive, you’ll feel motivated to change this.

g E mi N i May 22 – JuN 21

You’ll enjoy some lovely gettogethers or events this weekend, so take the initiative. The Pisces new moon is always inspiring and, if you are drawn to new ventures, this is an ideal time to launch your ideas. This is also a good week to overcome past disagreements.

CANCER JuN 22 – Jul 22

You’ll appreciate the opportunity to turn a corner with a shared responsibility. Consider a fresh way to manage your finances, taxes or even space at home. Midweek next week, it’ll be important to avoid mix-ups in communications.

LE O Jul 23 – auG 23

You may be drawn to a fresh personal relationship at this time. This is a good week to make a commitment to a venture or a person, but you must avoid being super idealistic. Check the facts, and if everything lines up, you may experience a wonderful opportunity.

vi R g O auG 24 – SEPt 23

You’re ready to turn a corner at work. This will be an exciting time to make new connections at work and/or to seek new contracts, as you’ll be working well towards goals and with colleagues and associates. Just be sure to be flexible and avoid limiting your options.

L i BRA SEPt 24 – Oct 23

Monday’s new moon will help you to turn a corner, especially if you feel some areas of your life have become stale or need to be re-prioritised. Consider how you could boost interpersonal dynamics and take the initiative. A creative project begun now could be a success.

SCOR pi O Oct 24 – NOv 22

You may be drawn to spruce up domestic dynamics; to renovate or even to move. This is a good time to make decisions regarding personal and domestic matters, but you must avoid snap decisions, or making changes because things seem too limiting for now.

SAgi TTAR iu S NOv 23 – DEc 21

This is a good week to consider the best way forward regarding personal, domestic and propertyrelated matters. You’ll enjoy the chance to boost finances in relation to these areas, and to see a personal development flourish. Just avoid gambling midweek next week.

CA p R i CORN DEc 22 – JaN 20

Your wish for a deeper connection with someone may kick-start a fresh chapter in your personal life. You may be drawn to upgrade or to change a communications device, travel route or vehicle. A key financial decision may be made.

iN THE STARS with PatSy BENNEtt

For personal readings, contact Patsy through her website to make an appointment, or call 0448 808 333. Facebook: facebook.com/patsybennettpsychicastrology Instagram: instagram.com/patsybennettastrology www.patsybennett.com

REAL ESTATE

Weetangera 18 Mathieson Crescent

Nestled on a massive 1013sqm (approximately) block, 18 Mathieson Crescent in Weetangera is an exemplary family abode.

Prepare to feel instantly at home as soon as you cross the threshold. The spacious layout allows an effortless flow from one room to the next, the timber flooring fills the home with a sense of warmth, and the fireplace in the family room exudes a cosy ambience.

The chef of the household will be – expansive, appointed with beautiful timber cupboards, an extra-large cooktop, abundant storage, a gas stove, and double

oven. Overlooking the open plan living area and with direct access to the formal dining room, the kitchen is the heart of this home. Leading through to the outdoor space, the kids can run free and play to their hearts’ content while you relax on the covered patio or host family and friends for a summer barbecue.

Agent Treston Bamber describes the property as “unique” and says his favourite aspects are the multiple living areas, the sense of privacy, and the generous layout.

Mr Bamber says the home is close to Weetangera Primary School, situated on a “very

family-friendly street” in a quiet yet central neighbourhood –it’s a picturesque place to raise a family.

Extra features of this property include ducted gas heating, split system air conditioning, and instant gas hot water.

5 2 2

EER 2.0

Auction Thu 23 Feb 6pm

View Sat 18 Feb 10.45-11.15am

Agent Treston Bamber Mob 0488 488 956 Ray White Canberra | 6173

- Super-sized fully serviced lots ranging from 850m 2 to 1,547m2

- Prices from $548,500 to $630,000 (from $399 per m2)

- Freehold Land with no time limit to build (save now, build later)

- Spend less on your land leaving you more $$ to build your new home

- 30mins to Canberra’s CBD and under 20mins to Queanbeyan

- Exchange on 5% deposit with no more to pay until Aug/Sept 2023

in awe of the dreamy kitchen

O p e n t h e d oo ette P r ope r ty M a ement

r to B r nag .

LJ Hooker Kaleen and Kippax offer a complete property service for property investors backed by marketing services, systems and professional training.

Our pro mi se to yo u

• We will call you to discuss all tenant applications

• We will inspect your property and provide pictorial report

• We will invite you to attend inspections with your property manag

• We will review your rent annually

• We will always respond to enquires within 1 business day

• We will ensure you are contacted when maintenance is r

• We look after our tenants and treat them with respect

• We provide 24/7 access to log maintenance issues & acc

• We provide reward opportunities to landlords who lease the

ccess to emergency trades ir property with us

Our fir st 12 mo nth promise - If yo u are not hap py it’s on the house

If we do not fulfill our promise at any time in the first 12 months and we fail to action your concerns within 7 days, you may cancel our contract, and receive a full refund on all management fees.

management consistent

GORDON 4 Sturrock Place

4 BEDROOMS

2 BATHROOMS

2 CAR SPACES

AUCTION

VIEWING

Sat 4/3/2023, 10am onsite

Sat 18/2/2023, 10-10.40am

Sun 19/2/2023, 10-10.40am

CONTACT Alisa Lawrence 0404 066 119

Family living at its finest

Perfectly positioned in an elevated location, this welcoming split-level family home combines a versatile floorplan with tasteful design features. The renovated kitchen combines quality appliances, a large island bench and an abundance of storage.

With three distinct living areas, a segregated master suite, covered entertaining area and stunning rural views - this home is an absolute winner. EER 3

alawrence@mpotter.com.au

You Can’t Buy Experience

38 Years Industry Knowledge

With a combined 38 years industry knowledge, Michael and Alisa have the experience, especially in changing markets, to assist you with a successful sale or purchase.

Showcasing:

- effective communication, marketing and negotiating techniques

- a bubbly, effervescent and transparent approach

- persistence, patience and positivity

- a ‘one stop shop’ offering a complete project management service to have your property ‘market ready’

- a long list of advocates and referrals. buying, selling or just want some honest market advice, reach out - we are here to assist!

A ‘Blue Ribbon’ Experience

We just wanted to say, Michael & Alisa, what a great job you do. We completely underestimated the stress of selling a house and just wanted to say how the genuine effort you have put into this for our family has been so sincerely appreciated and reassuring. You are all doing so much for us. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Josh, Sarah, Saxon & Charlee (Duffy)

We cannot speak highly enough of Michael and the team! They have made the process stress free and achieved a phenomenal outcome for us which has changed our lives. Do yourself a favour and enlist the best to sell your real estate!

Courtney & Brendan (Kambah)

A note of appreciation for the outstanding and personal service we received from you, and Alisa with the sale of our apartment at Deakin. Communication with each of you, as the occasion required, was always prompt, concise and efficient. We were delighted with the result and after sales service. We would be happy to recommend you and your team.

Nerida & John (Deakin)

CAMPBELL 40/1 Provan Street

To those who know the Campbell 5 Precinct, ‘Saint-Germain’ is the first one built and set the standard. Fixtures and fittings are simply beyond comparison with any other residence in the Precinct and there are no commercial shops.

The apartment exudes classic elegance and a hint of French

romance with bespoke fittings and fixtures everywhere you look: marble skirting boards, bronze gold tapware, three king-sized bedrooms, and so much more.

This absolutely stunning “grand residence” three-bedroom executive apartment is available for you to call

home. Perfection and opulence combine in this light-filled, modern, luxurious home located on the north-east corner of Level 3, with floor-to-ceiling windows providing spectacular uninterrupted views of Mt Ainslie, the War Memorial and the parkland below.

EER 6.0

Auction Sat 25 Feb 1.30pm

Price $1,200,000

View Sun 19 Feb 3-3.45pm Tue 21 Feb 5-5.30pm

Agent Christine Shaw Mob 0405 135 009

Blackshaw Manuka | 6295 2433

15 Timbarra Crescent, O’Malley 6 8 15

Rejuvenate of an evening in the spa on the rear patio while watching the evening lights and admiring the Black Mountain view! This substantial residence in the diplomatic suburb offers a large home for extended family, space for a home business or an entertainer’s delight! Entry is stunning with chandelier, high ceiling, 3 living rooms, a spacious dining opening to rear north patio. There is a preparation kitchen with 1 upright stove with oven, 2 separate ovens, 3 dishwashers and 2 fridges.

Upstairs: Accessible by stairs or lift, all 5 bedrooms are very large with robes and ensuites in each and master with spa ensuite and 3 walk-in-robe. Basement: there is a 5 car garage with car hoist plus a huge showroom for entertainment or car enthusiast. Also a 1-2 bedroom flat for guest or maid.

UVC: $1,666,000 Land: 2,044m² Living Space: 841m² EER: 4.0

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Open Home Saturday 18th February 2023 at 11am-12pm

Margaret Reynolds margaret.reynolds@civium.com.au

EXCLUSIVE TO OVER 55’s

• Located in the vibrant heart of Manuka and on the doorstep of some of Canberra’s best restaurants shops and amenities

• Only a select number apartments are now remaining. 1 bedroom apartments from $420,000 and 2 bedroom apartments from $690,000

• 1 car space with each apartment

• 5% deposit and 6 month settlement options available

• No stamp duty, strata fees, rates or water payment

• High quality inclusions

• Independent living at its best

• 90% now sold

Melissa Martin-Smith 0412 765 198

melissa@canberryproperties.com.au

Take a dip in the pool

While someone else does the mowing and weeding. Display Suite open Monday to Friday. Book a private tour or join us at our Open for Inspections every Wednesday, 10am to 2pm.

Embrace the ease of a low maintenance brand new 1, 2 or 3 bedroom apartment, selling now.

Over 50% Sold

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.

REAL ESTATE ON THE MARKET

Tomakin NSW 14 Beachside Boulevard

Beachside bliss on the boulevard! Perfectly located just a 300m grassed walk to the stunning Barling’s Beach, this large level block spans over 810sqm of prime seaside land and is one of the very few remaining blocks.

Surrounded by facilities including the Tomakin Club just 1.4km away, access to the Tomago River, 650m to a local café, 2km to Tomakin IGA and two golf courses within 5 km –including the stunning Oaks Ranch Country Club.

Price $880,000

View Contact Agent Agent Megan Goucher Mob 0410 582 875

My Agent Team Batemans Bay

(02) 4479 0229

(02) 4479 0229 myagentteam.com.au

#boutiqueisbetter

149 Lakeview Road TARAGO 5 bed 2 bath 2 car

Secluded and Peaceful With Potential For Profit

This exquisite rural property spans over 100 acres of gloriously secluded pastoral land, completely set up, ready to run as a working farm from the comfort of a large, modern home that is impeccably placed to enjoy the 360-degree views.

The homestead was built in 2010 some features include five large bedrooms including a generous master with walk-inrobe and ensuite, open plan kitchen and dining, lounge and living enjoying a two-way slow combustion wood fire heater, 6.66kw solar system and ducted reverse cycle A/C.

The property includes two large dams, seasonal creek and has undergone extensive improvements since the current owners purchased it including comprehensive perimeter fencing, enormous four-bay steel shed set up with removable livestock pens, horse stable conversion, new livestock shelters, 3 acre fenced paddock around the house, an additional five separate fully fenced paddocks cover over 9 acres in total of prime grazing land and much more.

For Sale

$1,550,000 - $1,650,000 View By Appointment Only Agent Megan Goucher 0410 582 875 Office

My Agent Team

1/9 Orient Street Batesmans Bay NSW 2536

WIN! Dare To Do It tickets

Dick and Angel Strawbridge, the stars of hit television series, Escape to the Chateau, along with their kids Arthur and Dorothy, are coming to Australia for the first time with a special tour that will see them live on stage, sharing stories and secrets from Escape to the Chateau and more. Millions of viewers across the world have been enthralled by Dick and Angel’s adventures, following the couple as they bought a run-down chateau in France and set about renovating it – and along the way they got married, welcomed two kids, and turned the chateau into a beautiful home and thriving business.

Dare To Do It at the Canberra Theatre, 8 March. Tickets available via canberratheatrecentre.com.au

CW has 3 x double passes to the Wednesday 8 March Dare To Do It live show to be won.

Enter to win

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 24 February 2023 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.

WIN! Recipes for Love and Murder DVDs

Kind, quiet Tannie Maria isn’t a woman who draws much notice. She leads a solitary life, writing recipes for the local gazette, cooking with ingredients from her garden, and chatting to her pet chicken. When Maria becomes the newspaper’s advice columnist, she peppers her responses with delectable recipes to help people fix their problems. But after a woman who wrote to her turns up dead, Maria and her colleague, rookie journalist Jessie, spring into action. Can the detecting duo crack the case before the murderer catches them?

Based on the bestselling novels by Sally Andrew, CW has 10 x Recipes for Love and Murder S1 (M) DVDs to be won.

SOUGHT AFTER SECOND RELEASE NOW OPEN

Limited release of 10 premium lots.

Spacious and tranquil rural lots with stunning views towards the Yass River and surrounding farmland. An ecologically sensitive development located just 20 minutes to the CBD. Construction has commenced and settlements are anticipated in late 2023.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to secure your dream block in the region’s most desirable rural setting.

Site inspections are now available and expressions of interest are closing soon.

The land will be sold by Expression of Interest closing 27th February. Find out more by attending an inspection day or at:

woodburyridgesutton.com.au

Exclusive Sales Agent