23 March 2023

From the editor

“Flash as a rat with a gold tooth” – as my dearly departed Dad was fond of saying – is how I felt at our friends’ 1920s jazz party on Saturday evening.

I was the bee’s knees, dressed in my flapper’s outfit cobbled together from vintage pieces in my wardrobe and opportune op-shop finds. A four-piece band played jazz from the era as guests mingled, admiring our great Gatsby getups. Canberra Swing Katz put on a high-energy dance performance and provided eager party goers with a quick Charleston class that had us doing a passable version in under 15 minutes. Such a swell time!

It was also a good time at the COTA ACT Seniors Expo in Autumn last Wednesday, which attracted over 3,000 guests throughout the day. Along with my colleagues Samantha and Kerrie, we met lots of lovely readers, many of whom gave us positive feedback and helpful suggestions, along with a few [unnecessarily] aggressive grumps. Living proof that “it takes every kinda people to make what life’s about,” as Robert Palmer croons.

Reasons to be grateful this past week include meeting every kinda people at the Seniors Expo, fun at Martin and Jana’s 1920s party, an evening with a sake master at the Japanese Embassy, Underground Spirits X QT Canberra cocktail experience, a sensational vegan feast and farm tour at Pialligo Estate, and a cool change. Take care,

on the cover

Ahoy, good folk! Canberra Shanty Club is one of various ACT acts performing at the National Folk Festival at Exhibition Park in Canberra this Easter, 6-10 April. Photo by Kerrie Brewer. Shot on location at Lake Burley Grif n. See cover story, page 4.

Billy Bragg • The Waifs

Luke O’Shea

Fred Smith

The Pigs

Mick Thomas

Steve Poltz

Jessie Lloyd

Jan Preston

Charm of Finches • Tony McManus

Natalie & Brittany Haas • Apodimi Compania

We Mavericks

Kavisha Mazzella

Alinta Barlow

Keith Potger with Moya Simpson & John Shortis

Chris While & Julie Matthews (UK)

Frank Yamma

Royal High Jinx

The Soul of Ukraine

The Cherry Pickers

ONLY 2 WEEKS TO GO!

Miss Ohio

Luke Plumb Band

The Blues Cowgirls

+ many more

This Easter long weekend

6 – 10 April 2023

Better than ever, National Folk Festival returns to Canberra

If you’re after something other than chocolate eggs and fluffy bunny tails this Easter, check out the National Folk Festival when it returns to Exhibition Park in Canberra over the long weekend, 6-10 April.

Making Canberra its permanent home in the early 1990s, the Easter weekend festival is known for its great music, fantastic stalls and interactive workshops. This year, international acts return, including UK-based Billy Bragg, Greece’s Apodimi Compania, Tony McManus from Canada, and Chris While & Julie Matthews from the UK.

Homegrown acts include headliners The Waifs, Canberra’s own Fred Smith, Luke O’Shea and Mick Thomas. The Festival’s interim managing director, Chris Grange, says while other festivals may be packed with international acts, their approach to talent scouting is different to most.

“It’s a different route for us because we don’t look for the big names, we look for the up-andcoming names. We look for the people who are really excellent at their craft, and who are going to surprise our audiences,” says Mr Grange.

For this year’s event, organisers chose from 800 acts, double the previous year’s

numbers. In total, 145 acts and close to 1,000 people will share their music, dance and street performance with the crowds this Easter.

One of those is the Canberra Shanty Club, which was born from connections made at the National Folk Festival five years ago. Dr Iain Johnston, his wife, Norrae, and Ewan Laurie sat together singing songs with the stalwart older crew at the festival. It was such a great time that they thought it would be something worth doing regularly in Canberra.

“Soon after the festival, we sat around at each other’s places and had dinner and practised a few songs, then we said ‘okay, now we’ve got it together let’s do it a pub’,” Dr Johnston says.

From Old Canberra Inn to their permanent spot at Smith’s Alternative two nights a month, the club has grown. Their simple songs are great for people with no experience and revolve around fun. The call-back chorus-style tunes feature classics like Haul Away Joe, Paddy Lay Back, South Australia, and many sea shanties.

“Sea shanties, by definition, are working songs, so there were songs that sailors would sing with a caller, the shanty man, to keep time while undertaking an activity. They’re just songs to get everyone working

together in time, that’s why they always have a big steady beat,” Dr Johnston explains.

Turning it up a notch this year, the Canberra Shanty Club is joined by members from Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania divisions coming to take part. The club will be running workshops each day, spread around the festival. Dr Johnston says you’ll be able to find them easily with around 30 people screaming their lungs out.

Intimate musical experiences spread across the grounds and the smaller venues allow for energetic performances where crowds feel at one with the artist. Mr Grange believes it is more than the tunes that bring people back to the festival each year.

“I’ve got people in the office, whose parents took them to the Folk Festival when they were children, and they are still coming or still volunteering or even working for the Folk Festival,” he smiles.

The dances incorporate cultures from around the world with guests invited to experience something new, while the circus and roving performers add a dash of colour to the festivities. Food vendors and merchandise stalls are set to cater for all tastes and requirements.

Mr Grange recommends checking out the workshop program with something for every level of experience and confidence, encouraging attendees to get hands-on with their time there. He says it doesn’t matter if you’re musical or not, just pick a title that speaks to you and you are sure to have a great time.

While you might not catch a huge pop star like Sir Elton John performing at the festival, you can hear his songs in the Infinite Elton Song Contest. Artists from acts playing at the festival battle it out to be the best recreator of one of the Rocket Man’s hit tunes.

A community focus means the event caters for all members of the family regardless of age, and a dedicated kids’ festival provides the perfect spot for parents to drop their kids off for a couple of hours.

One of the most famous attractions of the festival is the Sessions Bar, which runs all day and all night, Mr Grange says.

“We encourage groups of people to get together and play music; these are not performers – they are attendees, patrons … There are some people who go to our festival who will spend nearly all their time in the Sessions Bar and not actually go and see anything,” he smiles.

Canberra Shanty Club members include Norrae Johnston, Dr Iain Johnston and Cate Lemann.

The National Folk Festival takes over Exhibition Parkin Canberra, 6-10 April. For tickets and the program, visit folkfestival.org.au

- Jessica Cordwell

Photo Kerrie Brewer

St John Paul II College

Year 7 – 12 Catholic Co-Educational College

Open Evening

30 March 2023

St John Paul II College (JPC) is a welcoming and inclusive learning community where diversity is embraced and learning outcomes are maximised for each individual. The college is a flagship in education and provides a unique, innovative educational environment where all students can flourish. The college’s core principles of Justice, Peace and Courage support the holistic development of students as they navigate an ever changing world.

Key Dates

• Open Evening | Thursday 30 March 2023 commencing at 4.30pm, last tour at 6.30pm

• School Tours | Small group tours are available during May

• Senior College Expo (Year 9-12 Students) | Wednesday 17 May 2023 from 4.30-7.00pm

• Try JPC Day (for Year 7 2024 students) | Friday 19 May or Monday 22 May

For more information and for bookings, visit our website www.jpc.act.edu.au

Puja Nagaria: Beauty, brains and Bollywood dreams

Puja Nagaria has beauty, brains, and Bollywood ambitions, but it is a passion for social justice that fuels her zest for life.

Born and raised in Canberra, the 27-year-old recently shone on the national stage as Miss India Australian Social Impact 2022 for her Ghaar app, which allows Indians to feel more at home in Australia while remaining connected to their roots.

Raised by her Indian immigrant parents, Puja experienced cultural conflict in her youth, which later inspired her work to help Australians like herself reclaim their identities.

“Growing up in Australia … [I feel] like I lost my Indian heritage,” Puja says.

“It was a bit racist when I was growing up here as well. I would get the typical racist comments like, ‘oh, is your dad Apu from

The Simpsons?’.”

Attending Narrabundah College in her senior years helped Puja feel proud of her Indian heritage, rather than attempting to hide it.

The diversity of cultures at the school connected her with other Indian students with whom she bonded over their culture, food, and favourite Bollywood movies.

“Also seeing role models, Indian role models, for example, Maria Thattil – she won Miss Australia and she’s an Indian girl – in 2020,” smiles Puja. “Seeing role models like that, made me think ‘wait, there’s nothing wrong with being Indian’. I shouldn’t have let all those racist comments get to me; I’m seeing all these girls and men make it and there’s nothing wrong with it.”

Two Indian actresses Puja admires are Priyanka Chopra and Aishwarya

Rai Bachchan, whose footsteps she aspires to follow in and become a Bollywood star.

“Growing up watching [Bollywood movies] I knew I always wanted to do that, and I love also being in front of the camera,” she says.

“I feel like telling a story is such a powerful thing, especially movies about quite controversial things in India.”

Being showcased in an Indian Dove beauty campaign two years ago further fanned Puja’s passion for cinema.

With stardom in her sights, she still has many plans at home to fulfill.

Her journey to reconnect with her heritage led Puja to apply to the Miss India Australia pageant, and winning the Social Impact award was beyond her wildest dreams.

“Winning the social impact title, I was ecstatic. It’s one of my goals to help the community and change lives.

“I believe it will give me also a platform to speak about issues I’m really passionate about, such as racism and equality, and also give me further skills in pursuing acting and networking.”

- Abbey Halter

• Can you help a lovely dog to have a happy holiday in your own home when their owner is away?

• Enjoy the company of your new doggy friends and the satisfaction that, while their owners are away, you’re giving them a great holiday too!

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

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

Born and raised in Canberra, Puja Nagaria, 27, was recently awarded Miss India Australia Social Impact 2022.

Photo Kerrie Brewer

THIS IS MORE THAN JUST AN EVENING TOUR OF THE ZOO!

THE ADVENTURE INCLUDES:

WILD NIGHT ZooVenture

• The zoo to yourselves

• A motorised tour*

• A sundowner stop with snacks and drinks**, followed by dinner!

Saturday Night!

Choose your vehicle and have a chef-prepared dinner!

Viking Can-Am Hummer Chef Dinner

Notes:

Electric buses and buggies

$200 adults & $100 children*** Bad Boy, Wolverine, Viking buggies $250 adults & $125 children***

H1 Hummer, Can-Am buggy $300 adults & $125 children***

Thursday Night special!

Electric Vehicle

Picnic Hamper

electric vehicle with a picnic hamper dinner!

Individual bookings

1-5 guests: $155 adult & $50 children**

Group Rates

Minimum 6 adults: $135 adults & $40 children***

Minimum 10 adults: $120 adults & $30 children***

* Tours involve some walking

**Drinks include soft drinks, beer and wines from the Jamala Cellar

***Children under 16 years

Tours run until 29 April and then resume in September with the picnic hamper dinner option GO TO OUR WEBSITE TO CHECK THE OPTIONS!

www.nationalzoo.com.au/Wildnightzooventure

999 Lady Denman Drive, Canberra ACT

frontdesk@nationalzoo.com.au

Purchase online or call 02 6287 8400.

Our NSW neighbours off to the polls

Well, our Queanbeyan and surrounding NSW readers will be off to the polls on Saturday.

In Monaro, they have a choice between the sitting member, the vivacious, energetic and competent Nicole Overall and the solid, experienced former member Steve Whan, who was parachuted in to replace former Raider and Queanbeyan Blues legend Terry Campese. I’m not quite sure why the ALP ditched Terry. I have seen videos of the party where everyone seemed to be having a good time but it may have more to do with some friends he visited in jail. Politics is a tough game and whilst in my view Terry would have been a good member if elected, Steve Whan is a more than capable replacement.

Nicole Overall, having up until recently been a local government representative, has proved to be a highly capable, energetic and valued local member. In my view, she is an outstanding candidate who deserves to be re-elected and it’s just a shame that Steve can’t stand for the ALP somewhere else and

be elected. I would also hope that Terry can be considered by his party at a later stage for election if he does not lose interest in the meantime.

Dominic Perrottet has done nothing wrong to lose the election and the baseball bats don’t seem to be out for him, but the NSW Libs have not covered themselves in glory with their internal squabbling, and treasurer Matt Keene really should be in the Greens. ALP leader Chris Minns has not made many mistakes in this election and I liked that when he became opposition leader, he wanted to build things like trains in NSW again. Great idea, Chris, but you will need reliable electricity for that, mate, so I’d go easy on closing down reliable coal and gas power sources until they can be properly replaced by reliable cleaner power sources; you may also like to try modular nuclear power sources. Remember President Xi’s sage words last year. He promised that China would “not be getting rid of the old until the new is ready to replace it”. Why on earth can’t this

country do that?

I think Labor will win with either a small majority or as a minority government. As long as they are not dependent on the Greens; I found it concerning that the Greens want separate Indigenous seats –that smacks of Apartheid to me. I thought we wanted to bring people together, not divide them.

Another candidate who impresses me is Mark Latham, former ALP federal opposition leader and now One Nation leader in NSW. Being a former member of the NSW right faction, his centrist and anti-woke politics will, if his party has the balance of power in the upper house, be a brake on any silly measure a Labor government dependent on Green support in the lower house might try to inflict on the people of NSW. My only advice to voters would be if you want a

strive to deliver a holistic Catholic education for boys which incorporates academic faith sporting and extra curricular pursuits We believe in preparing boys for life, helping them focus on their strengths and better themselves as individuals in the years they spend at the College

Edmund’s College Canberra a Catholic School in the Edmund Rice Tradition has been educating boys from Year 4 to Year 12 for 69 years Since 1954, the College has seen over 11,000 boys grow into fine young men with generations of families passing through the halls

Hamish Chapman Vice Captain (Academic)

Liuaki Percival Vice Captain (Service)

Mr Joe Zavone College Principal Damian Jelfs-Smith Vice Captain (Mission)

Deveraux Tapelu College Captain

Continuing with the approach and layout adopted and refined in 2022, COTA ACT’s first major event for 2023, the Seniors Expo in Autumn, attracted almost 3,000 older Canberrans to Exhibition Park in Canberra (EPIC) on Wednesday 15 March, under sun-filled skies and gently falling autumn leaves.

This event was designed to inspire, inform and foster social connections for older Canberrans, enabling them to engage and forge strong and productive links with over 136 stallholders, who represented business, government agencies and community organisations. Expo stallholders were provided with a welcoming, spacious and relaxed atmosphere in which to sell products, promote services and to increase the awareness level for expo patrons, in one collective swoop, under one roof, in just one day.

Major sponsors, Transport Canberra and Canberra Metro, again offered older Canberrans free public transport on the day, including shuttle buses from interchanges. This was further enhanced by major sponsors, LDK, who generously supplied a free shuttle coach to ferry light rail passengers from the rail stop at Phillip Avenue, Watson, to the front of the Budawang Pavilion, with return services also provided as a courtesy to expo patrons. Major sponsors, ActewAGL, presented a Smart Energy Hub from their stall cluster within the pavilion, in addition to offering demonstration drives in the latest EV’s, from the front car park of the pavilion. Media sponsors Canberra Weekly were on hand throughout the day, offering fabulous hampers as raffle prizes, and Mix 106.3 and Radio 2CA conducted broadcasts in the morning.

Special attractions within the Budawang Pavilion included a Green Hub for gardening enthusiasts, featuring gardening guru, Tracey Bool, and for the first time, displays and advice provided by the Canberra Environment Centre and Seechange. The nearby Hobby Hub featured a wonderful display for model railway enthusiasts, whilst the Woodcraft Guild offered a visually exciting display of their wonderful hand-crafted wood crafts. All expo stallholders experienced considerable commercial and awareness success at the Seniors Expo, in terms of sales generated and in terms of stall visitations by expo patrons, with some commercial stall sites experiencing turnover in excess of $100,000 in just over five hours of stalls participation!

The Seniors Expo also experienced an upsurge in interest from local politicians. ACT Minister for Seniors and Veterans, Emma Davidson MLA, visited the expo, whilst Nicole Lawder MLA, Michael Pettersson MLA, Senator David Pocock, and David Smith MP, participated as stallholders.

Expo patrons were treated to a wonderful program of live music entertainment throughout the day, including two ‘singalong’ music concerts by entertainers, Shortis and Simpson, featuring songs from Broadway and West End musicals, with song lyrics projected upon large screens, to assist expo patrons. Elvis impersonator, Andrew Leonard, presented two concerts: Elvis in the ‘50s and Elvis in Las Vegas, before entertaining expo patrons with a music tribute to Johnny Cash in the late afternoon. Highly-respected Canberra jazz singer and pianist, Leisa Keen, performed two wonderful concerts featuring love songs of the ‘60s and ‘70, to much acclaim by expo patrons.

COTA ACT CEO Jenny Mobbs attributed the success of the Seniors Expo in Autumn to a combination of factors, including the ability of COTA ACT to respond to a diverse range of needs and considerations for both expo patrons and stallholders, where flexibility and the ability to adapt are of paramount importance to older Australians.

Of equal importance, the generosity and spirit of cooperation that COTA ACT enjoys with a wonderful range of sponsors, including the ACT Government, LDK Seniors Living, ActewAGL, Transport Canberra, Canberra Metro, Capital Chemist, APT Luxury Travel, Sleeptime, Canberra Weekly, Beyond Bank, ACT Human Rights Commission, COTA Insurance, KJB Law, Phillips Wealth Partners, Nurse Next Door, Radio 2CA and Mix 106.3 cannot be underestimated in the overall success of the Seniors Expo in Autumn.

A recent letter (L Arundell, CW 9 March 2023 p10) questioned the ACT’s credentials on climate action and our methodologies for emissions accounting.

The ACT is highly transparent with our emissions reporting, publishing a yearly update in our ACT Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory Report. The 2021-22 report was produced by independent experts Point Advisory, and showed that since the baseline year (1989-90), the Territory’s total emissions have fallen 47% from 3,098 kt CO2-e to 1,647 kt CO2-e. In this time, the ACT population has grown 63% from 279,000 to 454,000.

These figures are calculated in line with agreed best-practice international accounting methods, and mean that Canberra is a world-leading city in addressing climate change.

Your letter writer focuses on what are known as Scope 3

CANBERRA’S BEST PLUMBERS

emissions, or indirect emissions. In simple terms, these are emissions resulting from the production of goods outside the ACT. Under the international rules, those emissions are recorded in the place where the goods are produced, not where they are consumed.

Reducing Scope 3 emissions presents an opportunity for the ACT to contribute even more and generate emissions reductions in other jurisdictions by purchasing lower carbon products.

There are no international plans to tackle Scope 3 emissions yet, but we have started that work by having the Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment evaluate Scope 3 emissions for the ACT, the first time this has been done.

Cutting emissions quickly enough to tackle climate change is a major challenge. Our current focus is to cut emissions from fossil fuel gas use, and cut transport emissions

Over 100 categories to discover. Find Canberra’s expert leaders in one location, offering quality and reliable services across the ACT.

by increasing public transport use, encouraging walking and cycling, and increasing the use of zero emissions vehicles. The effort by many Canberrans to cut emissions in their homes, business and other places is a welcome part of that journey.

- Shane Rattenbury MLA, ACT Greens Leader and Minister for Energy and Emissions

It is such a slap in the face to hard working people when the government (at any level) decides to spend a huge amount of public/taxpayer money on something that is not necessary.

After finding out about the National Indigenous Australian Agency (NIAA), it certainly appears to be the case with the current push for the “Voice”. This NIAA has been in existence since May 2019 and already sits inside the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. I urge you to have a look at its website. The first thing noted there is the NIAA’s “Vision” which states that “Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are heard, recognised and empowered”. Sounds a bit familiar, doesn’t it? It would appear to be a huge chunk of public money to establish something that already exists. In 2021-22, this Agency received Government funding of over $268 million. The hypocrisy is magnified in times when everyday Australians are struggling to pay

their bills and keep food on the table. There is already a plethora of organisations specifically to look out for the Indigenous peoples of Australia. According to the Indigenous Voices Co-Design Process July 2021 document, it is highly likely there will be many more organisations, boards, groups, etc., - bureaucracy gone mad at ever-increasing expense to the public. Maybe it’s just a case of “what will a few more $million (or $billion) matter?” It’s not like more spending will increase inflation, is it?

- J Wholohan, Tinderry NSW

Former PM Paul Keating believes that instead of purchasing several nuclear subs for our defence, not offence, as he risibly suggested at his recent appearance at the National Press Club, that more of the archaic submersible white elephants otherwise known as the Collins class subs would have sufficed to defend our coastline and “provide a stronger defence”. Really, in what way? The home-grown subs were poorly designed and constructed, they were too noisy in operation making them very easily detectable, additionally they were plagued with operational problems from inception resulting in some of them being out of action for considerable periods of time of

up to a whole year. His speech at the National Press Club was vintage Keating, full of invectives against anyone that disagreed with his own views. He also advocated that China does not intend to threaten Australia; does he possess psychic powers or a crystal ball? Chinas massive ongoing increase in its military, coupled with its actions in the South Pacific region are a cause for concern to everyone. Surely the current size of its military and its “wall of steel” is more than enough for defence purposes and is now rapidly accelerating towards the offensive side? Under the circumstances, it would be very unwise for Australia to trust China as it has proven to be very untrustworthy in the past. Better to be safe than sorry and tread with extreme caution where China is involved.

- M Stivala, Belconnen ACT

Then we found The Grange Deakin Serviced Apartments. After a little encouragement Dad moved in and within days couldn’t stop thanking me. Dad has his own apartment, he’s surrounded by company and regular social activities. The household chores are no longer a burden, the apartment is cleaned, and the linen changed weekly. Plus the pressure of the building maintenance is gone. Dad’s now out doing things he loves again.

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

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

“Dad isn’t ready for aged care”

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

HAVE YOU HEARD?

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

Dainere’s Rainbow Bibbidi Bobbidi Ball

In 2013, Dainere Anthoney was posthumously named the Young Canberra Citizen of the Year, jointly with her brother Jarret, in recognition of their determined efforts to raise awareness in the community of paediatric brain tumours. This year, the GroupOne Dainere’s Rainbow Bibbidi Bobbidi Ball will be held at the National Arboretum Canberra on Saturday 24 June, the 10th anniversary of Dainere’s untimely death, aged just 15, from brain cancer – the leading disease killer of children in Australia. The evening includes live entertainment from Leisa Keen and Majura the Magician, DJ Alex Carder for dancing the night away, a live auction, silent auction, raffle, wine bags, lucky door prize, guest speaker, and other surprises. Bookings are essential. To buy tickets, learn about sponsorship opportunities, or to donate auction prizes, please visit daineresrainbow.com.au/events or email the Dainere’s Rainbow Team at daineresrainbow@gmail.com

VIEW Club

Woden: The next meeting is on Tuesday 28 March 11.30am at Canberra

Southern Cross Club, Woden. Cost: $34 for two-course lunch. Entertainment: Mark Thomann and Jonathon, singer/guitarist and percussion. RSVP to Monica by 22 March on 0412 664 195.

Weston Creek: The next meeting is on Tuesday 4 April 11.30am at Canberra

Southern Cross Club, Woden. Cost: $38 for two-course lunch. Guest speaker: Heather Hart from the Stroke Foundation discussing risk factors, awareness and symptoms as well as stroke prevention. RSVP to Barbara on 0408 864 616 by Thursday 30 March.

GIVIT donation of the week: Baby bouncer/rocker

GIVIT is calling for the donation of a baby bouncer or rocker for a young woman who has escaped family violence. She is pregnant and is raising two young children while trying to finish her studies at the same time. This young woman is being supported by a community service in Canberra that is assisting her with an application for permanent housing. She has been active and engaged in her studies but she prioritises her children’s needs and is currently sleeping on a mattress on the floor. She would like to prepare her home for a new baby and a bouncer or rocker would be extremely helpful. Generous Canberrans can donate a baby bouncer/rocker or fund this request with 100% of money donated used to purchase a baby bouncer for this young mother. To find out how you can help, please visit givit.org.au/whats-needed; search category: keyword ‘Baby bouncer/rocker’; location: ‘ACT’.

Shearers’ Ball

Join in a fun evening of music and dance with the Monaro Folk Society Bush Dance Band on Saturday 25 March 7-10.30pm at Folkdance Hall, Hackett. Tickets, cash only, at the door: adult $25, concession $23, MFS and Dance Delights $20, student $10, u18 free. Please bring a plate to share for supper. More info: monarofolk.org.au

Farrer Neighbour Day 2023

Farrer NeighbourHood Watch team invites you to our annual Neighbour Day on Sunday 26 March 4-6pm at Farrer Adventure Nature Park. Entertainment for all ages including live music, terracotta pot painting, balloon art, free BBQ, free cake and, importantly, an opportunity to meet with your neighbours.

Charity Stall

IN NEED OF SOME EXTRA $$

DELIVERERS REQUIRED For Canberra Weekly – Commercial Runs

Suited for persons who are retired or semi-retired looking for additional income.

Applicants need a driver’s license and a one tonne ute, van or equivalent.

Must be available on Thursday mornings from 8am to commence deliveries.

Relay for Life Team, the Bold Bandannas, will hold a stall at the Fyshwick Markets (within Ziggy’s) on Saturday 25 March 8am-5pm. Due to space, we shall be selling only our trademark preserves, pickles, chutneys, etc., lemon butter and sugar-reduced items. More info: Jan on 6231 0761.

Vibes@Northside

Come along to Vibes@Northside, a family-friendly, drug- and alcohol-free youth event at 2 Rosevear Place, Dickson on Friday 31 March 3.30-5.30pm. Enjoy free food trucks, beautiful tunes from talented singer and Ngunnawal woman, Alinta Barlow, the energetic and acrobatic stylings of the Jazzy Jumpers, Canberra’s talented skipping rope jumpers, and our community information market stalls. All welcome. Register for your free ticket via Eventbrite.

Canberra Jung Society

At our next meeting on Friday 31 March, at 8pm guest speaker Carolyn Minchin will be giving a presentation about ‘Dadirri - Deep Listening’ an ancient wisdom practice renewed in contemporary Indigenous culture. We meet 7.30-10pm at MacKillop House, 50 Archibald St, Lyneham (and by Zoom). Guests $15; seniors/concession $10. More info: call 0406 375 670 or visit CanberraJungSociety.org.au

Kangara Waters Mini Market

Residents of the Kangara Waters Retirement Village are conducting an April Fools’ Day fundraising Mini Market on Saturday 1 April 8.30am-12.30pm at the Village community centre, 2 Joy Cummings Place, Belconnen. Stalls will include: White elephant, treasures, jewellery, cakes, and books.

Kathy Mossop, Jenny Mobbs, Sally Pertzel

Rosie Chisholm, Harry Brown, Ray Farmer Ruby Kentwell, Ashley King, Sammi Pandaram, Melissa Woolf, Dilly Cliffe

Lisa Maunsell, Louise, Etienne Hingee

Philippa Haas, Adam Gregory

Tom Brimson, Carol Taloni

Pip Fulton, Katherine Haynes, Jo Stewart

Matt Neems, David Gray

Triny Thomson, Amanda Caust

Elisa Aitchison, Kate Flask, Lyn Brown

Cassidy Richens, Rebecca Drew

Joe Symons, Mark Parkinson

Amanda Cassidy, Narelle Jansen, Gabi Jones, Sarah Alfiler, Kylie Williams

ABOVE COTA ACT Seniors Expo in Autumn, Exhibition Park in Canberra. Photos: Kerrie Brewer. BELOW An Evening with a Sake Master, Residence of the Ambassador of Japan, Yarralumla. Photos: Anja de Rozario.

Liz Young, Anthony Young

John Leverink, Ming Tsai

Jarrett Mack, Callum Mack, Tadaatsu Mori Dorothy Barclay, Russell Evans

Karahashi Hiroyuki, Japanese Ambassador HE Yamagami Shingo

ACROSS

1 Meagre (6)

4 Egyptian god of the afterlife (6)

10 first ballerina ( i tal) (5)

11 Pink, wriggly creature that lives in soil (9)

12 unduly prominent (9)

13 Lord (5)

14 Made (6)

15 Comely (4)

19 Potpourri (4)

20 Lengthy recitation (6)

24 Propelled (5)

25 Hosiery (9)

27 Elusively (9)

28 Take place (5)

29 Creations (6)

30 Multiple loss of life (6)

PLAY

UNLIMITED PUZZLES ONLINE

canberraweekly.com.au/puzzles

AR ie S MAR 21 – APR 20

The entry of Pluto into Aquarius will put fresh focus on your career, general direction or status. It’s time for something new. A spontaneous change of routine, or fresh focus in your personal life will bring the company of like-minded people into your sphere next week.

TAu R u S APR 21 – MAy 21

You’ll enjoy doing things differently; you may appreciate a change of pace or a fresh project. It’s a good week to consider a change of environment and to bring more variety into your life. News will prompt you to change a key aspect of your work or health routine.

gemi N i MAy 22 – Jun 21

So much focus will be on a change of circumstance concerning an area you share, such as your space at home, joint finances or shared duties. You may feel sensitive as change around you sets a fast pace, so take things step by step. Key work or health news is on the way.

BRAIN BUSTERS

1 What song by John farnham was the highest-selling single by an Australian artist of the 1960s?

CANC e R Jun 22 – JuL 22

DOWN

1 Assumed (8)

2 Aircraft pilots (8)

3 Ordinance (7)

5 Specialist in a branch of study (7)

6 – scholar (6)

7 Boil gently (6)

8 Prefix meaning half (4)

9 Store (7)

16 uS dictionary maker (7)

17 Wooden panelling on the lower part of a wall (8)

18 Word to describe very ugly buildings (8)

19 from Stockholm, say (7)

21 i rritating (7)

22 Meaning modifier (6)

23 Lifts balloon (3,3)

26 Black quartz (4)

2 The n ew Zealand town of Rotorua famously smells of what?

3 TV host Dr Phil first gained fame appearing on which talk show?

4 Who founded The Canberra Times in 1926?

5 Who played Sam Spade in the 1941 noir film The Maltese falcon?

SOLUTIONS

A key relationship will step to a fresh level; someone close may have news for you. You’ll enjoy a gettogether, a trip or the chance to be more proactive with a project will spur you on to do great things. It’s a good week to improve health and wellbeing.

leO JuL 23 – AuG 23

A work matter and daily logistics are best approached carefully. Avoid acting before you think things through, as you may be surprised by someone’s reactions. Avoid taking developments personally. Next week a lovely trip, news or get-together will prove therapeutic.

vi R g O AuG 24 – SEPT 23

A family matter is about to step into a fresh phase. Be progressive, proactive and ready to step into new territory. Next week, circumstances will be ideal for evaluating your finances. Key news will encourage you to formulate a financial plan.

li BRA SEPT 24 – OCT 23

You’ll be drawn to consider your personal, family or domestic matters in a new light. A frank talk with someone close will require you to dig deep to express yourself. It’s a good week for fitness and beauty appointments, but you must be clear about what you want.

SCORP i O OCT 24 – nOV 22

Be prepared to step into fresh territory; for October-born Scorpios this will be domestically or with property, while November-born Scorpios will be drawn to a fresh way to develop and invest in relationships. You’ll be drawn to travel or to update a device.

SAgi TTAR iu S nOV 23 – DEC 21

It’s time for something new! You may be drawn to fresh technology or gadgets, such as a new communications device and, if finances have been tight, this will be a good time to consider a fresh budget. News from a friend or family next week will require focus.

CAPR i CORN DEC 22 – JAn 20

You will appreciate the opportunity to revitalise your relationships, and may even experience a surprise development. A meeting with friends or family will be refreshing. News concerning family, someone close or a domestic circumstance will draw attention next week.

AquAR iu S JAn 21 – fEB 19

Particular news to do with health or a change of schedule at work may mean you must adjust to circumstances. This is a good time to be innovative, and to embrace change as opposed to cling to the past. A short trip will take you somewhere revitalising.

P i SC e S fEB 20 – MAR 20

A changeable atmosphere may lead to indecision about which events to attend. You’ll make way for an out-of-the-ordinary or unexpected event, and may be surprised by the attention you gain. Key news will encourage you to devise a budget.

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

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

“Where nature meets perfection”

SCHOOL HOLIDAY Fun!

This year, autumn break for ACT schools begins on Thursday afternoon 6 April and continues until Term 2 starts on Monday 24 April. Check out the advertisers in our special school holiday activity guide and discover activities, attractions or hidden gems in and around Canberra that o er fun for all the family.

Gymnastics Circuits, Games, Free-time, Crafts, Movies/TV Shows and lots more!

SWING INTO SCHOOL HOLIDAYS AT CANBERRA CITY GYMNASTICS!

Does your child love to run, jump and climb? With school holidays fast approaching, Canberra City Gymnastics is o ering an opportunity to do something di erent! Children will be entertained and challenged by fun activities, games, and gymnastics circuits. Experienced coaches make sure each child feels happy and comfortable. The full day program runs 8.30am-5.30pm throughout the holidays in Belconnen and Lyneham. Healthy morning and afternoon tea is provided, BYO lunch.

Contact our friendly o ce team to book now:

T: 6251 1131

E: o ce@canberracity.org.au

8:30am-5:30pm

Monday to Friday 11/04/23 – 14/04/2023 17/04/23 – 21/04/2023

$90 (1 day) $176 (2 days) $255 (3 days) $332 (4 days) $80 per day for 5+ days

OUTWARD BOUND:

A

LIFE-CHANGING

FOR TEENAGERS AND YOUNG ADULTS

Does your teenager need an adventure that will push them outside of their comfort zone, and help them develop confidence and life skills?

Outward Bound o ers a variety of programs designed specifically for teenagers, including expeditions, leadership courses, and personal development programs. These programs provide a unique opportunity for teenagers to explore the great outdoors, make new friends, and learn valuable skills that will last a lifetime.

Make friends and build confidence

Through these challenges such as hiking, camping, abseiling, rafting, and ropes courses, teenagers learn to develop problem-solving abilities, build resilience, improve social skills, and gain confidence in their capabilities.

Some teens find it di cult to make new friends and connections. Outward Bound’s holiday programs bring diverse groups together in a supportive environment. Highly trained sta are passionate about and skilled at bringing out the best in people. Young people very quickly find themselves making new friends and building social confidence.

Outward Bound programs are designed to help teenagers better understand themselves, their strengths, and their values. Through this process, they learn to set goals, make decisions, and take responsibility for their actions.

ADVENTURE

Putting screens away

It’s no secret that parents are concerned about how much time their children spend on screens and social media. Outward Bound is a chance to disconnect from technology and reconnect with themselves and nature. Through their activity-rich adventurous programs, teens rediscover their curiosity and how to find joy through nature, friends, and the simple things in life. Learning self-responsibility

Outward Bound is all about teamwork. Participants work together to achieve shared goals, learn how to communicate e ectively, resolve conflicts, and support one another. These skills are invaluable for teenagers as they navigate their way through school, social relationships, and future careers.

Participants cook for themselves and each other. Outward Bound encourages them to take initiative for themselves. Teens return home with more gratitude, participate in conversation, and a willingness to engage around the house.

No experience needed

It doesn’t matter if your child has never camped or done anything like this before. Outward Bound provides a safe and supportive environment for your child to thrive.

Outward Bound’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity means their programs cater to people of di erent ages, genders, backgrounds, and abilities.

You’re in safe hands

Outward Bound has been o ering programs for young Australians since 1956. Your child will be supported by highly trained sta and internationally recognised safety systems and reputation. Over 250,000 Australians have completed an Outward Bound program, putting them at the forefront of youth development and outdoor education.

On Canberra’s doorstep

Outward Bound’s bush property in Tharwa and access to Namadgi National Park makes their programs easy to access for families in Canberra. Exploring the local area also builds confidence and skills to one day venture out on their own adventures in life and nature.

Programs for ages 12+

Outward Bound has programs for various ages and abilities in the January, April, July, and September school holidays. You can find the right adventure for your child on our website or feel free to give us a call.

This could be an incredible opportunity for your teenager looking for adventure, personal growth, and an unforgettable experience. The skills and confidence gained through these programs will benefit them for a lifetime, and the memories made will last a lifetime as well.

Scholarships are available for those who require financial assistance.

To find out more, visit www.outwardbound.org.au

April 11-19

16-24 yrs

'KIANDRA TO KOSCIUSZKO'

Join us this April for a 9-day hiking adventure. Qualifies for both the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Gold Practice and Qualifying Adventurous Journeys. Participants don't need to be enrolled in Duke of Ed to participate.

JUNIOR

ACT: January, April, September

5 days

12-15 yrs

Experience adventure, fun and friendship in the bush. An inspiring program to discover your strengths, develop life skills and expand confidence through facing new challenges and building new friendships

EXPEDITION

ACT: January, July

10 days

15-24 yrs

Journey through Australia's bush; hike, abseil, climb, paddle and navigate with a map and compass on expedition Take a giant step into your future with increased self-belief, resourcefulness and determination to succeed.

LEADERSHIP

ACT, VIC, WA: April, September

5 days

16-24 yrs

Learn leadership in the outdoors Discover how to best apply yourself in life, school, work and the world. Suitable for Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award Residential Project.

BOUNCE INTO BELCONNEN THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Belconnen’s bounciest attraction, BOUNCE, is ready to keep your children entertained all holidays! Open to kids both young and old, the centre is 1800sqm of adventure-packed, adrenaline-fuelled fun. Offering ticketed experiences for all abilities, choose your flavour and explore the free-jump trampolines, dodgeball, wall climb, X-Park ninja course and cliff jump.

Don’t stress about your little bouncers; there’s a dedicated miniBOUNCE zone for junior jumpers.

Parents and carers are welcome to hit the tramps and join the fun or keep a watch from nearby.

Looking for that perfect party? BOUNCE has you covered with three different options – we’ve taken all

the hassle out of party planning.

If you want to up your bouncing game, join a holiday camp or the BOUNCE Freestyle Academy for Term 2. Spring into action with BOUNCE Belconnen. Ticket information and prices available at

LIMELIGHT CINEMAS BRING BIG MOVIES AND FREE FAMILY FUN THESE HOLIDAYS

Wahoo! Limelight Cinemas has announced our school holiday program, and it’s chock full of big screen adventure, as well as free arts and crafts to keep the troops entertained.

Things kick off with a Super Mario Celebration, as Nintendo and Illumination Entertainment (the makers of Minions, Despicable Me, Secret Life of Pets and Sing) join forces to bring you the Super Mario Bros. Movie – a new, big-screen adventure starring pop culture’s favourite plumber!

Based on the world of Nintendo’s Mario Games, the film invites audiences into a vibrant, thrilling new universe unlike any created before, in an action packed, exuberant cinematic comedy event. Featuring an amazing voice cast including

Chris Pratt, Jack Black, Seth Rogen and Anya Taylor-Joy - Super Mario Bros. is the family movie event of 2023, and it opens at Limelight Cinemas on April 5 – just in time for Easter School holidays.

Catch G-rated animated adventure, Argonuts, or classic screenings of Hop, Willie Wonka or Charlie & The Chocolate Factory. Or for the bigger kids, we’ve got the latest from DC in Shazam: Fury of The Gods, or the big screen game adaptation of Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, starring Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez and Hugh Grant.

To complement these screenings, Limelight Cinemas have prepared a bumper program of free artistic activities that will engage kids and make your trip to the movies memorable. Colouring

and activity books, face painting, origami and more are all in store – and we’ve got terrific value family tickets available in variations of Admit 3 or 4, priced from $30.

The fun doesn’t need to end with the holidays – as great value birthday party packages are available all year round, starting from $17.50 per child (minimum 8 kids and includes ticket, kids popcorn +

drink, and complimentary adult ticket per package). Check our website for details:

www.limelightcinemas.com.au

Limelight Cinemas – making moviegoing fun and affordable for the whole family.

South.Point Tuggeranong

W: limelightcinemas.com.au

Willy Wonka is tumbling into South.Point Shopping Centre these school holidays!

Mr Wonka is bringing his Chocolate Factory to Centre Court! While there may not be chocolate rivers, there will be super fun crafts where your child can discover a wondrous and delicious Chocolate Factory - Craft Village.

From Monday 10 April to Friday 21 April, there are plenty of exciting and creative activities happening every day to keep the little ones busy. They can create candy butterflies – a beautiful sweet treat! And make a candy swirl garland to decorate their room. Add a little bit of magic to your child’s day with felt lollipop wands, let them live out their fantasy of being Willy Wonka by designing a Willy Wonka Hat. Or bring out the little scientist within and book them in for the chocolate slime craft day – they are going to love it!

And what would Willy Wonka be without the famous golden tickets? There will be thousands of Wonka Chocolate Bars up for grabs, with only 5 hiding a winning Golden Ticket. If you are lucky enough to unwrap a Golden Ticket, you instantly win a $200 South.Point Gift Card. If not, you still get to enjoy a delicious chocolate bar.

For a chance to win, spend $50 at any speciality retailer to receive a Wonka Chocolate Bar which could contain one of five Golden Tickets. Don’t miss your Charlie Bucket moment and a chance to win a Golden Ticket!

Willy Wonka is not the only famous face at the centre these holidays – the Easter Bunny will also be making a stop at South.Point! On Easter Sunday (9 April), catch the Easter Bunny hopping around the centre between 10am and 1pm handing out Easter eggs and hugs, and taking lots of photos.

So come and experience the Chocolate Factory these holidays and explore over 180 retailers including 30 new brands, such as MacPac, Rivers, Miniso, TK Maxx, Supre, Cotton On Mega, Harry Hartog, Typo and lots more. We’ve also opened over 10 new cafes and dining options like Burrito Bar, MsBaCo, Glasshouse Cafe, Chinese Kitchen Dumpling, and Matatang Hot Pot. The shopping centre experience is thriving at South.Point, so if you haven’t visited us recently, now’s the time.

Chocolate Factory Craft Village:

• Monday 10 April – Friday 21 April

• 10am – 4pm

• Centre Court

Bookings essential with 150 spots per day, please book via southpointcanberra.com.au

Easter Bunny Visit:

• Sunday 9 April

• 10am – 1pm

• Throughout the centre

Wonka Golden Ticket Giveaway

Tuesday 4 April – Sunday 23 April

Find 1 of 5 Golden Tickets hidden inside a free Wonka Chocolate Bar to win a $200 South.Point Gift Card. Just spend $50 at any specialty retailer and receive a Wonka Chocolate Bar.

Terms and conditions apply, visit southpointcanberra.com.au for more details.

South.Point Shopping Centre, Corner of Anketell Street and Reed Street, Greenway ACT

T: 6293 1000

E: reception@southpointcanberra.com.au

W: southpointcanberra.com.au

CANDY, CRAFTS AND CHUCKLES AT THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY AT SOUTH.POINT

VISIT TREETOPS ADVENTURE NOWRA

Experience Australia’s first tree rope and cliff-edge adventure! Treetops Adventure Nowra is located about two and a half hours away from Canberra, with aerial activities set along the cliffs of the Shoalhaven River. The adventure park features a range of challenging courses and obstacles suitable for all ages from three years old and up, featuring ziplines, wooden bridges, and cargo nets, providing an exhilarating experience high up in the trees. In addition to the treetop courses, families can make a day of it by visiting the Shoalhaven Zoo and enjoy a picnic in the beautiful surroundings. Overall, a visit to Treetops Adventure Nowra from Canberra is sure to be an exhilarating and memorable experience for the whole family.

23 Rock Hill Road, North Nowra NSW

T: 02 4411 1016

E: nowra@treetopsadventure.com.au

W: treetopsadventure.com.au/location/nowra/

DYNAMIC MOTIVATION SCHOOL HOLIDAY MTB DAY CAMPS

World class MTB instruction for Beginner to Advanced riders, ages 6-16.

We have a fun full day of riding with our MTB day camps each week day from 11 to 21 April. You can enrol in one or many days. Each day we split into appropriate small skills groups (6 per instructor) and ride and focus on skills relevant to the group. Our goal is to send them home tired, more skilful, and happy. Cost: $98/day.

For all programs bring your bike, safety equipment, spare tube, sense of adventure and food for the day or order from the café onsite.

Stromlo Forest Park, Wright

T: 0401 791 880

E: info@dynamicmotivation.com.au

MTB Holiday Programs

Ages 6 - 16 Beginner - Advanced

Week days Tues 11th April - Fri 21st April

World class MTB skills instruction in a fun and inclusive small group setting

Stromlo Forest Park, ACT

Mt Gladstone, Cooma, NSW (transport ex ACT)

Info and bookings: www.dynamicmotivation.com.au

UNLOCK THEIR FUTURES WITH JUNIOR ENGINEERS SCHOOL HOLIDAY CODING CLUBS

Not your average holiday camp! More than 40,000 Australian families can’t be wrong! Give the kids a break from vacation care, and give them something they’ll really look forward to attending.

Junior Engineers is bringing our fun and hands-on two and three-day school holiday coding camps to three locations across Canberra this Easter school holidays. Ignite a love of STEM and equip your child with the valuable problem-solving, cognitive, social, and collaborative skills that prepare them for the jobs of the future.

LinkedIn recently released a list of the most in-demand skills based actual roles advertised on the site over the past six months. It is no

surprise that IT topped this list: coding (particularly Python, JavaScript, CSS and C++) and cyber-security skills are in hot demand in 2023, and this is only anticipated to continue well into the future.

Junior Engineers’ highly engaging, tried-and-tested program for kids aged 5-12 years will spark a passion for coding and robotics, because not only is it fun, but it’s also delivered by qualified, dedicated instructors.

Can’t make it in person? Small group classes with a maximum of seven students per class are also available online under the guidance of live instructors who are committed to your child’s learning.

If you’re after an even more

in-depth experience, tailored oneon-one private tutoring programs are available online with live instructors leading the way. It’s a convenient schedule to keep them occupied at home for a morning or afternoon around other activities.

Junior Engineers programs are located across Canberra, in Chapman,

Evatt and Weetangera. Hop onto the website and snag yourself an eggcellent Easter Holiday activity for the kids to extend their brains and have fun along the way!

T: 1300 089 344

E: customerservice@jnrengineers.com

W: jnrengineers.com

B e c o m e a j u n i o r i n v e n t o r b y d e s i g n i n g , c r e a t i n g a n d s h o w c a s i n g y o u r v e r y o w n m o b i l e a p p p r o t o t y p e

L a u n c h i n t o a w o r l d o f s c i e n c e , t e c h n o l o g y a n d e n g i n e e r i n g i n a f u n , h a n d s - o n p r o g r a m !

D i v e i n t o a f u n , h a n d s - o n p r o g r a m , b u i l d i n g a n i n c r e d i b l e u n d e r w a t e r w o r l d i n M i n e c r a f t .

C o d e a g a m i n g d e v i c e ; a p o c k e t - s i z e d c o m p u t e r a n d d e v e l o p a n u n d e r w a t e r M i n e c r a f t w o r l d a l l i n o n e !

VR CANBERRA OFFERS AWE-INSPIRING FUN THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Why sit around at home on school holidays? The future is now!

Fill up these school holidays with new virtual worlds, jampacked with awe-inspiring rides, characters, sights, and sounds.

VR Canberra’s ACT School Holiday Program means unlimited games and rides, Monday to Friday, with two sessions daily: 10am–1pm, and 2–5pm.

For $80 pp, kids aged six and up can access

exhilarating solo games like VR Super Hero, or team up with a friend to embark on virtual adventures with the 9DVR Egg Double Seats.

After that, hop into the driver’s seat for VR Super Racing, or enjoy 90+ Retro Games in the Arcade Machine, including Pacman, Space Invasion, 1947, Contra, and many more.

Want to play as a team? VR family provides crazy adventures for groups of six, and Multi-Player Gaming

SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

GAMES AND RIDES

Period: During ACT School Holidays

Date and Time: Monday-Friday 10.00am – 1:00pm | 2:00pm – 5:00pm

Price: $80 per person

*Booking required **Minimum 4 people required

BOOK NOW  02 6262 2160

Address: Shop 5/83-101

Lysaght St, Mitchell ACT 2911

allows groups of four to play Elven Assassin Bow & Arrow; Fight to save the kingdom with advanced technology in Oculus Quest 2.

VR Canberra has venues for hire for birthday parties. For $45 extra, you can follow up a day of virtual adventuring with dancing through the night. The dance party setup includes speakers, a microphone, and sparkling disco lights (BYO music device).

Want to keep the party going? VR equipment Is now available for hire at home.

Hiring the 4-player VR party setup includes trusty staff on hand to assist you during the party. They will take care of the setup and pack up, so you can focus on having fun.

With over 50 game selections to choose from, VR Canberra can help make your party unforgettable at your place. Don't settle for a run-of-the-mill celebration – enjoy state-of-the-art virtual reality technology.

Bookings are essential, call 02 6262 2160 today or visit www.vrcanberra.com.au

facebook.com/vrcanberramitchell instagram.com/vrcanberra

SCHOOL TERM PROGRAM

UNLIMITED GAMES AND RIDES

Period: Week days during school term

Date and Time: Monday-Thursday 2:00pm – 5:00pm

Price: $80 per person

Minimum number: 2 Persons

*Booking required

Also find us in Westfield Belconnen these School Holidays near Upper Food Court

FUN FOR ALL AS NATIONAL DINOSAUR MUSEUM TURNS 30

National Dinosaur Museum turns 30 on Saturday 8 April! The museum was founded in 1993 and for a fun fact; this happens to be the same time as the release of

From 10am to 4pm, join us for our Family Birthday Fun Day with workshops, face painting, dinosaur encounters, food vendors, and fossil talks, craft activities, show bags and more. You don’t want to miss a special Easter egg hunt planned every hour, organised by Fun Canberra and sponsored by La Casa Property Group!

family tours upstairs, and local author Sandra

Tickets must be purchased in advance from our website: www.nationaldinosaurmuseum.com.au

• $20 per adult for Family Birthday Fun Day (10am

HOP INTO CANBERRA OUTLET FOR EASTER HOLIDAY FUN

Hop into Canberra Outlet these April school holidays for heaps of eggstra special Easter fun!

While Canberra Outlet will be closed on Good Friday, they are open from 10am to 6pm Saturday, Easter Sunday, and Easter Monday.

The Easter Bunny will be hopping around the Centre on Wednesday 5th, Thursday 6th, Saturday 8th, and Sunday 9th April between 11am to 2pm and will be handing out delicious Lindt chocolates. How eggstravagant!

This year’s April School Holiday theme is ‘Sweet Factory’ with an exciting and colourful pick and mix wall.

School Holiday activities start on Saturday 8th April, where kids can make Easter baskets, ready for the Easter Bunny’s arrival on Sunday morning. Other fun activities include bunny masks, Easter baskets, egg cartons, chocolate bunny decorating, and cupcake decorating.

The assortment of free School Holiday activities

continues right up until Sunday 23rd April, so there’s plenty of opportunity for you to join in the fun.

Plus, if parents sign their little ones up to Canberra Outlet Kids Club, they will also receive a free backpack and toy!

337 Canberra Ave, Fyshwick

W: www.canberraoutlet.com.au

T: 6112 6222

E: infocanberra@retprogroup.com.au

SCHOOL HOLI D A Y

Don’t miss out on our Sweet Factory these school holidays! With plenty of activities including creating your own bunny masks, Easter baskets, and cupcake decorating!

JUMP FOR JOY AS FLIP OUT MAJURA TURNS ONE! EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES AT CANBERRA GLASSWORKS

Bring the heat to your Autumn holidays with Canberra Glassworks. Book into one of three school holiday programs and unleash your child’s imagination in glass. Under the guidance of some of Australia’s most acclaimed glass artists, your children will learn introductory techniques in glassmaking to create their very own masterpiece that is sure to be the envy of their classmates.

Choose your own glass adventure – playing with molten glass in Teen Glass Blowing, designing a seasonal tile in Holiday Tiles, or moulding a sculpture in Casting Light. Book now before they book out!

11 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston ACT

T: 6260 7005

E: contactus@canberraglassworks.com

W: www.canberraglassworks.com/create/holidays

Flip Out Majura is celebrating our 1st Birthday Bash on Saturday 29 April. One year of endless fun, adventure, and flipping. We want to celebrate our birthday with you!

Visit us in store on 29 April and bring in this coupon for a chance to go into the draw to win a heap of exciting prizes on the day! Must be in store on the day to win; T&C’s apply.

Flip Flip Hooray!

13 Mustang Ave, Majura Park ACT

Opening Hours: 9am – 9pm

T: (02) 5133 7777

W: flipout.com.au/majura/

Teaching artist, Rob Schwartz blowing glass in at Canberra Glassworks.

Photo by PewPewStudio for artsACT

Have you been to Kita? Canberra’s midnight café

If you’ve watched Midnight Diner on Netflix, chances are you have also longed for your own nocturnal cafe to curl up in with some good food, in a space that is both cosy and liminal.

In Canberra, that space is easy to find. Simply ask the nearest hospo worker, emergency services operator, or insomniac, and they will point you towards Kita Café in Narrabundah.

The constants of the café include mismatched flooring reminiscent of Indonesian Warung, eclectic décor that shouldn’t go together, but just does, a TV that plays Studio Ghibli movies through the night, and 23-year-old Zachary Young.

Zac has been nocturnal for four years now since taking over the café at age 18.

“My dad and I started the renovations ourselves and we opened the doors two months later on 31 October 2018.”

There are a handful of Canberra staples that stay open past midnight. However, since the closure of Pancake Parlour in Civic, Kita is the only dine-in experience open from 6pm to 6am.

The owlish hours aren’t for everyone, something Zac has to be completely transparent about when interviewing new staff.

The late evening and early morning crew conduct a handover halfway through the night. Only he stays from 6pm to 6am.

“If we were in the city centre, I would probably have an extra set of hands or two,” said Zac. “But out here in Narrabundah, even though we’ve been established for four years, some nights I only get a couple of tables.”

He laughed in surprise when asked if it ever gets lonely.

“No one has ever asked me that before. It definitely does. Being the age that I am, in the industry I’m in, it can get quite lonely in the sense that I’m always here.”

In the last four years, he says can count on one hand the nights he’s had off.

“Last August, me and my girlfriend went to Cebu in the Philippines, where she’s from. I had a week off and it was the first time I’ve ever had off since we opened.

“I don’t get to have a more traditional life as a 23-year-old, or even an 18-year-old back when we opened … To be honest, I would not prefer to be anywhere else.”

People ask Zac all the time what keeps him motivated to stick with the nocturnal lifestyle that Kita brings. Much of it comes back to the reason the café was created.

“My dad’s a shift worker, and he always has been. For most of my life he’s been in the protective services.”

Throughout his career, Zac’s father noticed the countless workers that were limited to McDonald’s or service station food after coming off the night shift. It was a market that had been forgotten about for so long that no one other than Zac’s parents believed that Kita would be a success.

“Industries that I had never even heard of until I started working the same hours as them. It’s like this whole other world,” says Zac.

“AFP, emergency services, people who work the overnight shifts in disaster centres. Night workers from Fyshwick. Writers. Students.

“During exam periods, we can have a whole sea of just uni

students with their laptops, studying all through the night. I can have 80 per cent of the restaurant full at 10pm, and it’s completely silent,” he smiles.

For Canberra’s hospo workers in particular, Kita has become a common ground. Zac says he can tell what line of hospitality a customer is in from the time they walk through the door.

“Restaurant workers come in anywhere between 10pm to midnight. Bar staff come in between midnight to 2am. And then we have club staff coming in anywhere between 3am and 5am.”

At 5am the kitchens close, as does Zac’s favourite part of the night.

“2am to 5am is just an open

door to anyone who wants to come through. You get the occasional person that’s just up in the middle of the night or had a big one at the casino.

“I get messages from people in the morning after they’ve come in at 3am saying they’ve woken up better for it, because they actually had some decent food before bed,” says Zac.

“And a bunch of water, since we don’t sell alcohol.”

Much like the Chef character of Midnight Diner, the conversations held in the wee hours, and serving hearty food to diners who are often forgotten about outside the café’s doors, is what keeps Zac going.

- Anja de Rozario

ACT Hub stages one of Australia’s best love stories

Dubbed the Romeo & Juliet of the AIDS epidemic, Holding the Man follows the true story of Timothy Conigrave and his lover, John Caleo, from their high school romance until their untimely deaths. The tale continues on stage at ACT Hub until 1 April.

Like a Shakespearean novella, the tragic tale is uplifted with flickers of comedy and relatable moments, however, this story is true. The book, written by Conigrave, was released just months after his death, and adapted for stage by playwright Tommy Murphy, debuting with the Griffin Theatre Company in 2006. It has since gone on to be one of Australia’s most successful plays, produced around the world. Murphy also adapted the work for the screen.

Holding The Man is a story of a love that spans 15 years, Conigrave falls for the school captain of the football team at their Catholic boys school. Soon the pair start a relationship that grows with them as they become men; there are ups, and downs, betrayal and separation. Murphy says at

the time of writing it, people were tired of hearing about AIDS.

“There was exhaustion with HIV stories and that story had been told enough. My feeling is that at a time of great loss, a very meaningful time, that you should continue to find new ways of telling that story,” he says.

The playwright was apprehensive when first commissioned for the project, feeling that he was generationally removed from a love story during the height of HIV and AIDS. Soon those fears were put to rest and Murphy realised it wasn’t a hindrance at all.

“I was coming with such a hunger and curiosity to know about that history, and about the queer heroes that I felt I was standing on the shoulders of.”

The story told through Conigrave’s eyes is raw and honest, revealing a lot of his own flaws. One of the major conflicts is that Conigrave wants an open relationship, while Caleo is happy to be with just each other.

“Tim doesn’t do what I imagine is very tempting to do as a writer of an autobiography, which would be to just make yourself the hero. He gives a lot of moral authority to John in a really remarkable way that’s very brave,” says Murphy.

While the audience might see Conigrave as a villain, Murphy says neither man is bad. They both approach things reasonably, have their own stances and genuine human needs, and make efforts to accommodate each other, which makes it such a poignant love story. Murphy says Conigrave is clear that he is the one hurting Caleo, who is forgiving, and it is obvious how

THE SOUL-STIRRING, GOSPEL-INSPIRED BROADWAY HIT

Everyman Productions director, Jarrad West, with playwright, Tommy Murphy, who adapted Timothy Conigrave’s poignant book, Holding the Man, for the stage.

much it pains both men.

“Our challenge in the writing and then in performance is to make sure that John is active and punching back and I think that’s there,” says Murphy.

Bringing the play to the Hub stage is Everyman Productions and director, Jarrad West, who first discovered the book when he was 18. He says, in a way, the book is the ultimate fantasy of finding your love in high school and remaining with them; when he was that age he would have been grateful just to know someone else was queer.

“All the things that are in the novel that I think as a young gay man growing up happen to you, that you thought were just exclusive to you; to be able to go ‘someone else has this experience’ is really wonderful,” says West.

The play has moments most Australians can relate to, such as warm summer afternoons and sipping on fruity lexia. It also acknowledges Australia’s response

to the AIDS epidemic, which vastly differed to the American approach that tried to sweep it under the rug.

Murphy says that frankness is attached to the HIV story; the government was frank, and people had to be honest about how many partners they had, whether they paid for sex, or injected drugs. He says Conigrave is the embodiment of frankness. On his deathbed, with nothing else to lose, he tells his story – the good, bad, ugly and moving.

West says that telling these stories is a way of honouring what current generations may owe to the ones who went before and as a way of sharing the past with the ones who come after.

“We were the villains again, we were something wrong with the world. These stories being told still, all these different aspects of what happened.”

- Jessica Cordwell

Holding The Man at ACT Hub, Kingston, 22 March-1 April; acthub.com.au

Now showing

Shazam! Fury of the Gods (M)

The daughters of the Titan Atlas, Hespera (Helen Mirren) and Kalypso (Lucy Liu), steal the Wizard’s broken staff from the Acropolis Museum in Athens, Greece. In Philadelphia, Billy Batson (Asher Angel) and his foster ‘Shazamily’ operate as a superhero group. Soon, the daughters of Atlas besiege the team in an effort to steal back the power of the gods.

The first film in the series introduced the troubled character of Billy Batson: abandoned by his biological mother, Billy had to acclimate to a new foster family while coping with newfound superpowers. Mark Strong delivered a sinister adversary who outmatched our hero in experience and villainy. In the vein of a classic 1980s children’s movie, the stakes were high and the bad guys were very scary! This sequel is one of the last projects

of the old guard at the DC Extended Universe which is set to be rebooted with the upcoming The Flash. While canon, the continuity is limited, which begs the question: why would fans get invested? The movie lacks the grim tone and stakes of the original, instead adopting the Marvel template of an inconsequential storyline following whippy protagonists as they attempt to stop generic antagonists from obtaining a MacGuffin amidst a light tone. While Angel’s Billy Batson takes a backseat to lead Zachary Levi’s showboating, Jack Dylan Grazer’s humorous and layered performance continues to be the series standout.

Verdict: A fun, light adventure for younger fans, but a disappointment when compared to the superior original. 2 stars.

- Luke McWilliams themovieclub.net.

Viewed at Palace Electric Cinemas

Canberra French Language Institute

Are you travelling to France or to a French speaking country? Do you want to learn to speak French for fun? The go no further. CFLI is the school for you!

At CFLI, we work in a friendly and encouraging environment to help adults and students of all ages to reach their goals. All our teachers are highly qualified and ready to facilitate your learning experience. And we guarantee e ective and enjoyable learning from day one.

Book talk

This week, Michael Popple checks out big new releases from three of the world’s top authors. You can find more of Michael’s book reviews on his blog: unseenlibrary.com

Burner

by Mark Greaney Sphere, $32.99

As the war in Ukraine rages, vast amounts of Russian money is finding its way into the West, syphoned out for nefarious purposes. When a banker obtains files identifying the dirty money and its recipients, both Russia and the CIA want him dead. His only hope to reveal the full corruption lies with the legendary Gray Man, Court Gentry, and his lethal partner Zoya Zakharova. Mark Greaney continues his epic Gray Man series in a big way with the exceptional Burner. Featuring an intense spy thriller narrative that expertly incorporates contemporary events, Burner is an outstanding and ultra-exciting read that is impossible to put down.

How to Sell a Haunted House by

Grady Hendrix Titan Books, $24.99

Following the sudden death of her parents, Louise returns to Charleston to deal with her family home and her deadbeat brother Mark. Forced to work together, the argumentative siblings begin cleaning up their parents’ spooky house, hoping to sell it. However, Louise and Mark are about to run into a big problem; their old house is haunted, and does not want to be sold. The always imaginative Grady Hendrix returns with another unique horror novel, this time examining the haunted house sub-genre. The book is one part horror, one part family drama, and is a superb and compelling read.

Unnatural History

by Jonathan

Kellerman

Century, $32.99

When a photographer is found murdered in a Los Angeles warehouse, the case falls to the team of Lieutenant Milo Sturgis and psychologist Alex Delaware. But was his killing related to the photographer’s controversial work with the city’s poor, or due to his own family’s insane wealth? And how does the case relate to the flood of dead bodies occurring across the Unnatural History is a fantastic and powerful addition to the long-running Alex Delaware series. Jonathan Kellerman has produced another captivating and clever murder mystery that will have you riveted all the way to the fantastic conclusion. Recommended.

Canberra Weekly competition winners

The winners in Canberra Weekly’s latest round of competition draws are:

Scent Australia Home: A Makin, Franklin.

Allelujah film passes: J Wood, Gordon; D Stevens, Theodore; K Mitchell, McKellar; C Beurle, Cook; K Smith, Harrison

what’s on

SCATTERED PEOPLE

Free fi lm screening at Heath Lecture Theatre, Radford College. Food and music from 4.30pm, fi lm starts at 5pm. Through the eyes and hearts of two Iranian musicians, Scattered People (M) is a fi lm about the healing power of music, featuring Missy Higgins and Archie Roach. After the 60-minute fi lm, student organisers will interview refugee advocate Emeritus Professor John Minns.

Heath Lecture Theatre, Radford College, 1 College Street, Bruce, Friday 24 March 5pm; www.scatteredpeoplefilm.org

26 MAR

ALEX LLOYD

Don’t miss Alex Lloyd –Live and Amazing – at Tallagandra Hill 6.30pm this Sunday 26 March. Limited tickets still available.

Tallagandra Hill Winery, 1692 Murrumbateman Rd, Gundaroo NSW. Tickets: tallagandrahill.com.au

29-02

CHOIR BOY

26 MAR

THE GROGANS

The Melbourne-based trio bring their Which Way is Out Tour to UC Hub, University of Canberra, 26 March.

Tickets: thegrogansband.com

UNTIL 01 APR

HOLDING THE MAN

One of Australia’s most recognisable odes to love, the story of Timothy Conigrave comes to the Canberra stage with this Everyman Theatre production, at ACT HUB, Kingston, 22 March-1 April.

Tickets: acthub.com.au

MAR APR

The soul-stirring, gospel-inspired Broadway hit by Tarell Alvin McCraney comes to Canberra Theatre Centre for six shows only, Wednesday 29 March –Sunday 2 April.

Bookings: canberratheatrecentre.com.au

04-08 APR

360 ALLSTARS

The worldwide smash hit urban circus comes to Canberra Theatre Centre, 4-8 April.

Bookings: canberratheatrecentre.com.au

UNTIL 05 APR

FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

Presented by Alliance Française, this wonderful festival of French cinema continues in Canberra at Palace Electric Cinemas, until 5 April. For the program and tickets, visit a renchfilmfestival.org

Find more listings at canberraweekly.com.au

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

The Grogans head to UC HVub 26 March.

Image supplied.

Portraits depict ‘private world of pain’ of Endometriosis

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, which aims to raise the profile of a debilitating disease that affects one in nine Australian women.

According to Endometriosis Australia, endo is a common disease where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it in other parts of the body.

Diagnosis takes an average of 6.5 years.

This March, Canberra artist Melissa Hammond photographed local woman Kristy Stephenson, who lives with Stage IV Endometriosis – the most advanced stage.

“I said, I could show you all my scars from my surgeries, but she wanted to find out what pain looks like for me,” Kristy says.

“For me, pain is usually in the middle of the night. I wake up in excruciating pain. I take myself to the bathroom, dripping with sweat, and lie on the cold floor in the dark.

“It’s something that nobody in my life has ever seen. I’ve always kept it on the down low, even from my parents when I was younger. I’ve had relationships in which I would close the door if I’m going through it.

“I was told from a young age, ‘There’s nothing wrong with you. It’s all in your head. You’re fine.’

“That thought has grown into this big monster that says I have to just keep pretending everything’s okay … I look fine, so I better act like I’m fine.”

Sadly, those messages also came from the mouths

Kristy was properly diagnosed.

“Feeling ignored, misunderstood, completely fobbed off. ‘It’s just stress.’ ‘Get over it.’ Those were the messages that I took for about 12 months,” she says.

“Now I have my professional persona, and my personality with my friends and family, where everything’s cool. And then I have this private world of pain that I deal with.”

Kristy met “the beast named Endometriosis” for the

“I’m a type of person who doesn’t want to be perceived as weak,” says Canberra woman Kristy Stephenson, who lives with Stage IV Endometriosis. Photo: Melissa Hammond©

through Manhattan.

She experienced a sudden fever, combined with crushing stomach pain, made worse by the late summer humidity.

“You start to faint, want to vomit, don’t know if you’re dying. You have to get off the bus but have no idea if your legs will move.

“You yell some incoherent swearwords at the poor bus driver, get off the bus, walk towards whatever open door you can find, and say ‘bathroom’ to whoever is in front of you.

“Drenched in sweat, in excruciating pain, you collapse. Then you wake up with people all around you in a café restroom with next to no recollection of what happened or how you got there.

“That is what it feels like to have an endometrial cyst rupture.

“At 44, I have lived with this debilitating disease for my whole adult life. In the last three years, I’ve had two major surgeries. I lost my left ovary, and nearly ended up with a colostomy bag.”

Kristy allowed Melissa to capture the scene of her lowest moments in hopes of raising awareness for the personal burden women bear in recovery.

“I want workplaces to understand the physical, emotional, and mental toll this disease takes on a

person. Sometimes ‘fake it till you make it’ results in being found by your manager, passed out under your desk from pain.

“Just because you look okay, doesn’t mean that you’re high functioning most of the time.

“The financial burden of paying for my surgery, then funding my life for three months while recovering was extraordinarily difficult, dipping into superannuation funds and personal savings.

“You get 10 days of sick leave a year. I could easily exhaust that in a month.”

The 24 years since her diagnosis have brought an increase in endo awareness among younger generations, something Kristy is immensely happy to see.

“Back then, I was told it was a single spinster’s disease, an old woman’s disease.

“I was told that having children should cure it; 21 years old, and being told to have children to help my pain.

“That’s something that has been taken away from me. The advice I was given when I was younger didn’t allow me to look into the preservation of my organs that would allow me to have children at a later stage.

“The younger generation are more fortunate in that there is a bit more of an awareness.

“I am told to welcome menopause as it should bring relief, one last battle before maybe my body, mind, and spirit can finally rest and be free of pain,” says Kristy.

“As an older woman who’s gone through it, I would really like to say that I see them and there’s support out there.”

- Anja

de Rozario

Photo Melissa Hammond ©

Jenna Ortega: Goth glam

20-year-old actress Jenna Ortega has been on a highfashion streak since her breakout role in Netflix’s Wednesday. Her now signature goth-meets-glam look is in no small part inspired by the titular spooky character, allowing Ortega a smooth transition from Disney child star to certified scream queen.

WITH BEAUTY AND FASHION EDITOR, ANJA DE ROZARIO

While chatting with Jimmy Kimmel last November about donning the role of Wednesday and attending Disney Prom, Jenna sported one of her first forays into goth glam – a black Dion Lee midi dress with daring lace cutout, and soaring stiletto Louboutins.

Just five days later outside Good Morning America, she showcased what would become a trend in her post-Disney wardrobe – menswear. On the chilly streets of New York, she added a black trench coat that featured a flash of cheetah print, and a maroon Dolce & Gabbana handbag.

Paris Fashion Week allows many to go no-holds-barred for the aesthetic, and Jenna, too, committed to hers. She wore this showstopping Yves Saint Laurent hooded halter-neck to the fashion house’s 2023 Menswear runway. Fun fact: YSL originally popularised hooded gowns in the mid-1980s.

At the Screen Actors Guild Awards, where she was nominated for Wednesday, Jenna again married macabre with chic in archival Versace. The gown is constructed from leather, and originally had a shoulder strap that was removed to modernise the piece for the Gen Z icon.

An ANU study has found that too little or too much sleep could be a risk factor in dementia

Ample sleep can delay onset of dementia

according to ANU study

A recent study by researchers at The Australian National University (ANU) has shown that the right amount of sleep becomes even more important to brain health upon reaching middle age.

According to lead author Dr Tergel Namsrai, it’s not just lack of sleep that can impair brain health, but too much of it.

“Getting more than nine hours of sleep a day or less than six hours were both associated with lower brain volume and cognitive measures – crucial for things like reaction time and memory,” Dr Namsrai said.

“Daytime dozing was also associated with some of these indicators of impaired brain health.”

The study looked at the sleep habits of over 29,000 people aged between 37 and 73 and could provide the basis for helping to combat major diseases like dementia.

Dr Namsrai said there needs to be greater focus on the links

Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by stress and anxiety?

If so, my name is Jessica from Inspired Life Collective (ILC), and I understand how you feel.

At ILC, I offer a unique integration of alternative therapies and coaching to help you achieve deep healing and transformation in all aspects of your life. Whether you’re looking to overcome past trauma, improve your relationships, or enhance your career, I have the tools and expertise to help you succeed.

Utilising techniques such as EFT Tapping and clinical hypnotherapy, I’ll help you break free from stress and anxiety and experience healing, growth, and elevation in all areas of your life.

EFT Tapping, for instance, is a powerful alternative therapy that combines principles of acupressure with talk therapy to help process negative emotions and limiting beliefs. It also has an immediate calming effect on the body, making it a great tool to help you take charge of your mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing.

between sleep and brain health, as well as more research into ways to improve sleep.

“The mechanisms underlying the link between sleep and brain health

are not well understood –there’s a lot of work to be done,” she said.

“But our study shows it could be an important target if we want to improve brain health into old age and delay the onset of dementia.”

Dementia is among the world’s leading causes of death worldwide and is expected to impact 150 million people by 2050.

My services are tailored to meet your individual needs and goals. As an experienced practitioner, I understand that every individual’s journey is unique, and I work with you to create a customised plan that helps you achieve the transformation you desire.

I believe that everyone deserves to live their best life, and I am here to help you achieve that. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a happier and more fulfilling life, I invite you to book your complimentary consultation with me to help you discover how ILC services can help you achieve your goals. Don’t let stress and anxiety hold you back any longer - it’s time to create the life you deserve.

and empowering you to thrive.

is currently no cure –making identifying risk factors even more important.

There

“Around 20 to 40 per cent of dementia cases are attributable to modifiable, non-genetic factors,” Dr Namsrai said.

“The most well-known of these include smoking, alcohol misuse and obesity. But sleep is an emerging risk factor.”

@jessica.read.ilc

As you navigate life,

Neon colour pop!

One potential flaw in mainstream interior design (in my opinion) is the emphasis on neutral colour palettes. Instead, why not incorporate vibrant and bold colours to add a little ‘pop!’ to your space? Check out these colourful pieces with pizzazz that are sure to liven up your home.

Can’t seem to pull your decorating

together?

Now you can access help for just the parts you need. With your ideas, our expertise & resources you’ll confidently take action. Avoid big ticket mistakes with our holistic plan to achieving the forever home you deserve.

Scan to learn more about Choose your Own Adventure Decorating Services

www.journey-home.com.au

WITH HOME EDITOR, ABBEY HALTER

1 Wharton rhubarb breakfast cushion, $89.99, Sheridan; 2 Aqua peacock table lamp, $373, Paradiso Ceramics, Crookwell; 3 Colours of Canberra acrylic desk block, $60, Scott Leggo Gallery, Kingston; 4 Aphrodite crystal vase in amber and lilac, $420, fentonandfenton.com.au; 5 Tempo bath towel, $9, Pillow Talk 6 Neon rays triple scented candle, $59.95, Pillow Talk; 7 Decorate wall plate, $55, Paradiso Ceramics, Crookwell; 8 Blue acrylic glasses, $50 for 4, Mario Luca Giusti at Dirty Janes, Fyshwick; 9 Vintage icicles ice bucket , $19, Dirty Janes, Fyshwick

REAL ESTATE Family entertainer and

Downer 3 Briggs Street

This home was designed with family living in mind. A knock-down rebuild boasting a newly renovated sage green kitchen, 3 Briggs Street is move-in ready for a growing, modern family.

Entering the home, you will be instantly greeted with space and natural light. The bedrooms are set at the rear of the property, separated from the hustle and bustle of the family hub. The master bedroom enjoys an outlook of the pool and boasts a large walk-in robe and private ensuite.

“We love that the bedrooms

are in a segregated wing and that there’s two separate, spacious living areas,” says agent Andrew Grenfell.

“Most of all, we adore the beautifully renovated kitchen with huge island bench and tons of amenities – including a built-in wine fridge, 900ml induction cooktop and oven, and double door fridge.”

Located in peaceful Downer, the suburb is becoming increasingly popular among first home buyers, families, and downsizers alike.

“It’s got a great community sense with excellent local shops.

REAL ESTATE RECENT SALES

The close proximity to Northbourne Avenue provides immediate access to public transport and everything the Inner North has to offer.”

The indoor/outdoor flow of this home effortlessly leads to an oasis-like pool and entertainment area, allowing for relaxing swims and family celebrations in the warmer seasons.

70 Bimberi Crescent, Palmerston $1,050,000 Luton

2 Mckinnon Street, Nicholls $1,001,000 Town Residential

24 Fisken Crescent, Kambah $995,000 Property Collective 401/19 Marcus Clarke Street, City $960,000 Crowthers

3 Scoble Place, Mawson $949,000 Property Collective

19 Leist Street, Weston $945,000 Blackshaw

7 Krichauff Street, Page $942,250 Property Collective

11/21 Keira Street, Narrabundah $940,000 Luton

9 Ashcroft Crescent, Monash

Crescent, Kingston $1,150,000 Home by Holly

199 Mabo Boulevard, Bonner $1,130,000 Distinct

26 Jackie Howe Crescent, Macarthur $1,110,000 Independent

9 Aston Crescent, Cook $1,110,000 LJ Hooker

17/37 Ipima Street, Braddon $1,110,000 Home by Holly

11 Armfield Place, Chisholm $1,100,000 Luton

22 Rose Street, Murrumbateman $1,100,000 Independent

10 Joan Bradley Street, Franklin $1,080,000 Confidence

4 2 2 1

EER 5.0

Price $1,600,000+

View Sat 25 March 11-11.30am

Agent Stephen Bunday

Mob 0416 014 431

Agent Andrew Grenfell

Mob 0424 858 529

LJ Hooker Dickson | 6257 2111

Bellhouse Crescent, Moncrieff $625,000 Luton

20 Garrad Court, Charnwood $610,000 LJ Hooker

8/1 Surprize Place, Phillip $590,000 Independent

107/55 Burkitt Street, Page $560,000 Upside

4/36 Petterd Street, Page $539,000 Blackshaw

27/161 Uriarra Road, Crestwood $515,000 Ray White

296/1 Anthony Rolfe Avenue, Gungahlin $500,000 LJ Hooker

414/81-83 Cooyong Street, Reid $495,000 LJ Hooker

39/1 Playfair Place, Belconnen $452,000 Independent

307/9 Watkin Street, Bruce $450,000 LJ Hooker

293/325 Anketell Street, Greenway $420,000 LJ Hooker

85/1 Mouat Street, Lyneham $410,000 Luton

104/484 Northbourne Avenue, Dickson$400,518 Independent

19/67 Derrima Road, Crestwood $325,000 Ray White

Data is provided by agents. Source: Realestate.com.au

Ditch the mower and the weeds

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

Display Suite open Monday to Friday. Book a private tour or join us at our Open for Inspections every Wednesday, 10am to 2pm.

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.

Over 50% Sold

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.

8153 Monaro Highway, Bombala

Rare rural lifestyle opportunity close to town!

“Merriwee” is a golden opportunity for those wanting a country lifestyle with the convenience of being minutes from town.

The property is located only 5 minutes from Bombala and features 57.23ha/141.415ac of rich open grazing country, well subdivided into manageable paddocks with 2 dams for stock water. Merriwee lends itself to a smaller grazing

opportunity allowing purchasers to enjoy an idyllic life on the land, whilst earning a solid additional income.

The homestead features 4 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, formal lounge room, living room, family friendly farmhouse kitchen complete with all mod cons, home office, external laundry, single car garage/shed, circular

4 2 1 57.23ha

Virtual Online Auction

driveway and established gardens and trees. This comfortable country home has reverse cycle air conditioning but also offers the charm of slow combustion heaters and an open fireplace.

Additional improvements include a large 1 stand shearing/machinery shed - with timber sheep/cattle yards and established orchard.

Tuesday 14 April at 11am, unless sold prior Conditions apply.

Christine McIntosh M 0427 584 004

Christine.mcintosh@nh.com.au

Nutrien Harcourts Bombala

nutrienharcourts.com.au

HARRISON 54/64 Kings Canyon Street

In the sought after suburb of Harrison, we welcome this spacious and stylish three-bedroom townhouse to the market, split across three levels. With 120sqm of living, this home

has everything you need for comfortable living. It will make for the perfect first home, up-sizer or newest investment opportunity.

Immediately you are greeted by that luscious green front yard

that’s perfect for outdoor entertaining or the kids to safely play. That natural north-facing light floods the open plan living area, with your lounge and dining room

3 2 2

EER 6.0

Auction Wed 29 March 6pm

Price guide $679,000+

View Sat 25 March 1.30pm

Agent Sandra Masters

Mob 0416 121 155

Agent Ryan Hedley

Mob 0458 440 375

WIN! Maker2Market Business Taster experience

Maker2Market Business Taster experience is a three-day deep dive for creative teens, aged 10-17, creating a micro-business and selling handmade products to real customers at Old Bus Depot Markets.

Over 500 teens have tried the Maker2Market three-day Taster program – it’s a fun learning experience (based on design thinking methodology) that grows entrepreneurial mindset, problem-solving, curiosity, creativity,

Enter to win

critical thinking, perseverance, and social skills. A great introduction to the innovation lifecycle of designing, prototyping and testing. The real-world learning and skills enable creative teens to be entrepreneurial and start to earn their own money! More and to book: www.edii.com.au

Two lucky CW readers will each win a Maker2Market Business Taster experience in the upcoming April school holidays.

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

WIN! Mambo Australia prize pack

Mambo Australia is here to help Aussie families by giving away 4 x School Essentials prize packs, valued at $55 each.

Each prize pack includes a fully matching Mambo Backpack Set – with all the essentials in a one-stop shop. Each backpack set includes five-piece lunch box set, a matching bag and a pencil case.

Inspired by all things art, surf, and Australiana, Mambo Australia’s signature style is designed to bring your kids school essentials to life.

Note: Prize packs on offer may differ from that pictured.

WIN! Puffin Easter prize pack

Celebrate Easter the Puffin way this year by entering this giveaway jam-packed full of festive children’s books, including beloved reads featuring classic characters like Bluey, Peter Rabbit and the Very Hungry Caterpillar, PLUS a giant Peter Rabbit plush (90cm).

This eggs-tra special prize pack includes: Giant Peter Rabbit plush; Bluey: Easter; Bluey: Happy Easter; Bluey: Easter Fun!; The Tale of Peter Rabbit Picture Book; The Unfunny Bunny by Adrian Beck; The Very Hungry Caterpillar’s Easter Picnic by Eric Carle; Mr. Men Little Miss Easter Bunny by Roger Hargreaves; Peppa Pig: Peppa’s Easter Hide & Seek; Find Spot at Easter by Eric Hill; Roald Dahl: Easter EGGstravaganza by Roald Dahl.