04 May 2023

From the editor

Before dozing off the other night, I decided to check the weather for the week ahead to help plan my work outfits, which often need to take me from desk to dinner and beyond. So, I walked over to the phone charger in the far corner, noticed a message, read it, then logged onto social media to see what the message was referring to. Forty minutes later I realised I’d disappeared down the social media rabbit hole, so put the phone down and turned off the lights – only to realise I hadn’t even checked the weather. Duh!

Do you ever get side-tracked online? It’s easy enough to do, even for a non-digital native like me. It’s one of the reasons I like print so much – you either read what’s on the page, flip the page, or put the magazine down. Simples!

Reasons to be grateful this past week include sharing Canberra Symphony Orchestra’s electrifying Electric Blue concert with appreciative friends and a spellbound audience, a fun cinema outing and lunch with a dear friend who’s relocating to Queensland, brunch with another long-time friend back from an overseas posting, rowdy dinner catch-up with former school mums, tasting delicious loaded schnitzels and an apple strudel with my son (courtesy of The Bavarian at Woden), restorative yoga, and the fortune of living in a secure, weatherproof home. Take care,

on the cover

Some of the Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea mugs produced over the past 30 years to raise funds for Cancer Council programs. Photo by Kerrie Brewer. See cover story, page 14.

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Canberra’s close-knit community creating for those in need

With the clicking of knitting needles and careful stitches, members of the Canberra knitting and crocheting community create items made with love for people in need around the world. Some in groups and some alone, often giving to multiple initiatives, they are generous with their time and skills. One of these volunteers is Ruth Oldfield.

Ms Oldfield has been knitting since she was nine years old. During her teens, she made jumpers for herself, then when her children were born, she made clothes for her daughters. In 2015, she found herself unemployed, and, during a chat with her mother back in England, she learnt about the Red Cross Trauma Teddies.

The idea originated in Newcastle, NSW, after a paramedic noted the calming effect a teddy bear had on a screaming child when riding in an ambulance.

“Because children talk to their toys, if you have someone to tell about your trauma, it takes the worry from your subconscious to your conscious … if children tell the teddy bear everything that’s gone wrong, they sleep better,” says Ms Oldfield.

It didn’t take her long to approach the local Red Cross and start making the bears. Soon she had a group of volunteers helping her. Last year, the group and others from the community helped to create 1,824 Trauma

Teddies and were awarded the national team of distinction by the Red Cross for their efforts.

Bears were delivered to every primary school across the ACT during the pandemic to help ease stress, some were sent overseas, and others to the NSW Northern Rivers during the floods. Volunteers during the floods told the team the bears had a huge positive impact on the children.

“Volunteers told me when kids come in, we say, ‘this little guy has lost his house as well, please look after him’ and instead of feeling like a victim, they feel capable and they’ve got someone else to look after,” she says.

According to Ms Oldfield, the feedback the group has received about their bears has been astounding; women and children had a friend to confide in, and children are distracted from broken bones. A package of 17 bears was sent to a museum of disasters in Finland that wanted to know the impact the bears make.

“They don’t interrupt you, they don’t tell you you’re wrong, they don’t correct you and say ‘no, actually, I think you’ve got that wrong’, and they speak any language. They do an enormous amount of help,” she says.

Each month, the group delivers 50 bears to Canberra Hospital, 30 to Calvary Hospital, and 20 to Queanbeyan Hospital. Sometimes they

even deliver to Cooma and Goulburn when they can organise the bears and delivery.

Around 15 volunteers come to Ms Oldfield’s house each month for a day of ‘finishing school’, where they sew the official Red Cross label onto up to 200 bears for people in crisis, while enjoying coffee, cake and a catch-up.

With many of the teddies going to young children, there are strict criteria each bear must meet: no holes or gaps stuffing could be pulled out of, the yarn can’t have glitter or beads, they need to be tightly packed and stand upright when held by the feet. Those that don’t meet these standards are still delivered to someone in need.

“It’s still made with love, still needs a home. So, he goes to an orphanage in the Philippines where they don’t have any toys, it will be loved and do its job,” she says.

It was by word of mouth that Ms Oldfield found out about Wrap With Love, an initiative that delivers handmade blankets to areas of disaster around the world. People knit or crochet 28 ten-inch squares – the size of a single blanket.

Once completed, preferably in a finished blanket, though they do accept just the squares, too, the gifts are shipped to Alexandria. Cutting out any shipping fees, Spotlight and Tobin Brothers Funerals will deliver the blankets to the depot. Every blanket is finished with a kangaroo motif label and the words ‘with love from Australia’, so no matter where it ends up, the recipient will know that Australians care about them.

“They go all over the place – refugees, overseas, Ukraine, Afghanistan, Tonga when there was the volcano eruption, the outback communities, anyone that needs a blanket. It’s massive,” she says.

Yet another project Ms Oldfield is involved with is the Fish and Chips campaign, which aims to see newborn babes across the world dressed in appropriate clothing.

“Newborn babies in third world countries whose mothers don’t have any clothes for them to wear because otherwise they’d be wrapped up in newspaper like fish and chips,” she explains.

The baby clothes are delivered to countries where water for washing clothes isn’t easy to come by; at best they will be washed in a river, and many will never be washed. So, they ensure each pack is bright or deeply coloured. Full story online.

Knit for a cause with Red Cross [redcross.org.au/ teddy], Wrap with Love [wrapwithlove.org], or Fish and Chips [facebook.com/ groups/1767222583489219/].

- Jessica Cordwell

Ruth Oldfield shares her knitting goods with those in need around the country and the globe. Photo: Kerrie Brewer.

Photo Kerrie Brewer

St John Paul II College

Year 7 – 12 Catholic Co-Educational College

17 May 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.

We invite students and their families in years 9 to 12 to attend the JPC Senior College Expo Schedule:

4.30 - 7.00pm - Expo and faculty information

4.30 - 4.50pm - Australian School Based Apprenticeship Information Session

5.30 - 6.15 pm - Principal Welcome and Panel discussion

7.00 pm – Close

During the evening, students and families will have the opportunity to:

• Explore the ‘Careers Expo’ where Universities and Training Organisations will be showcasing their courses - see website for complete list of exhibitors

• Discover JPCs student leadership and co-curricular opportunities

• Meet with teachers and discuss information about senior subjects that JPC is offering for 2024 and beyond. Tours will be available during the evening for families new to JPC. Or book a small group tour during the month of May. For more information and for bookings, visit our website www.jpc.act.edu.au

Why does the media only report bad news?

By the time this edition of the Weekly goes to print, I will be winging my way back to Australia after a few weeks’ holiday going to Gallipoli with my old mate, Adam Duthie, former ACT rugby centre from the ‘80s, and spending time in Cambridge with my cousin, Mary Vickers. Mary is a very positive person who sees good in everyone, and has a positive view on life. She recently bemoaned the fact that the only news reported these days seems to be bad news. She has a point, which got me thinking.

There are a lot of good news stories in Canberra that never get reported.

I’d like to see, say every three months, the local papers only report good news stories for a day (with maybe just one page devoted to essential other news, which may include bad news). Likewise on that day, the local radio and TV also just report good news stories.

I believe it would be uplifting for people to

hear and read about the nice things that are happening in our community; to read and hear about the good things local Canberrans are doing to help their fellow citizens and to make our city and country a better place.

Instead of just reading about all that is wrong with our health system, it would be nice to read of some ground-breaking invention or innovation a team of doctors and nurses at the Canberra Hospital came up with to help save patients’ lives. Or the kindness shown by an ACTION bus driver to a sick or disabled passenger that went way beyond the call of duty. Or the acts of charity people like the late Stasia Dabrowski showed to Canberrans down on their luck by running a soup kitchen at her own expense for decades, and thus winning the Canberra Citizen of the Year award (1996).

We get so used to bad news that a spurt of good news stories would buck us up and give us confidence that we live in a nice city in a nice

country, and the world is not really an awful place.

Similarly, I have always wanted to see a day when the local paper was just devoted to animals, and there were no pictures of humans in it – just animals. You would probably only be able to do this once, maybe twice a year, but people could send in heart-warming animal stories, and groups like the RSPCA ACT could send in stories of the animals in their care and encourage suitable people to adopt them and give them a good home.

I think many of us would find it a refreshing change to see pictures of a litter of kittens and photos of a heroic cavoodle called Maggie whose barking saved her 80-plus-year-old owner from a dreadful housefire whilst that owner was asleep. It would sure beat the more usual photos of Andrew Barr, Shane Rattenbury, Anthony Albanese, and Peter Dutton!

St John Paul II College

Year 7 – 12 Catholic

Co-Educational College

Throughout May St John Paul II College (JPC) welcomes families to visit our innovative educational environment. JPC is a welcoming and inclusive learning community where diversity is embraced and learning outcomes are maximised for each individual.

• 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 & 2025 students) | Friday 19 May or Monday 22 May

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

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Urban street library fighting crime book by book

Ever since a street library was established in Florey, alongside Neighbourhood Watch, crime in the area has dropped significantly. Street librarian Rachael Thorpe believes the new, stronger sense of community has helped to reduce crime.

There are 190 street libraries in Canberra –and counting. This one, however, is different. It also boasts a food staples pantry, fresh produce cart, herb garden and succulent propagation. The list goes on but it’s worth noting here that Rachael has organised all of this while in a wheelchair.

After surgery for a rare spinal cord cancer, Rachael found herself in a wheelchair and looking for a purpose.

The beauty of the food staples pantry is that it is discreet.

“We can’t completely see it from our house because some people don’t feel comfortable receiving charity,” Rachael says. “We’ve set it up so that we can’t really see people coming and going and people feel comfortable grabbing a jar of pasta sauce and some pasta or a box of porridge.”

The produce cart is laden with fresh tomatoes from Rachael’s husband’s garden, a donated metal bathtub is full of fresh herbs, and an old toolbox is crammed with succulents for anyone to take home. Oh, and there’s also a geocache site.

“It gets a lot of use,” Rachael says. “Two groups

and rest.

“It’s a benefit to me,” Rachael says. “Because

Come and support monks and nuns of all Buddhist traditions by participating in an ‘alms round’ near the Canberra Times Fountain, City Walk (by Canberra Centre mall).

The alms round is an ancient Buddhist tradition where monks and nuns walk through an urban area with a bowl, giving people the opportunity to provide them with food to support the spiritual life that they live.

The alms round will take place to commemorate Vesak - the most auspicious day in the Buddhist calendar.

There will be rice provided for those who wish to participate.

Hosted by Sakyamuni Buddhist Monastery and Buddhist Centre, for the Australian Sangha Association. For enquiries, please write to ‘asasecretary@gmail.com ’.

Rachael Thorpe at the popular street library in Florey

Photo Kerrie Brewer

Vinnies launches 2023 Winter Appeal

Vinnies has launched its 2023 Winter Appeal to help older women facing homelessness in the ACT and surrounding region.

“I never thought I’d end up homeless on the street in my 70s,” Joan* said. “Now I know, if it could happen to me, it could happen to any older woman.” (*: Not her real name.)

At the age of 70, Joan found herself homeless soon after she lost her husband. Her eldest daughter stole all her savings, and transferred the house into her own name, after Joan’s beloved husband of 50 years died.

“I’d lost my husband, I’d lost my home, I’d lost my family,” Joan said. “I mean, I had nothing to live for. I didn’t even have a pension.”

Like Joan, many older Australian women face homelessness because of financial insecurity or family and domestic violence.

Women often have to take time off work to look after their families, and this time off is usually unpaid. So, when they retire, women have less money to live on than men.

If they separate, divorce, or become a widow,

they are more vulnerable.

“Thanks to Vinnies, I was placed in crisis accommodation, and met volunteers Jess and Maria,” Joan said. “First stop, Maria organised for me to go to Centrelink to sort out my finances. Then Jess helped me organise a new home. Today, I’ve got a beautiful home I never thought I’d have again.”

John Feint, president of St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn, said: “The most recent census data revealed that incidence of all forms of homelessness has remained stubbornly high in our region and increased. A significant portion are women.”

Between September 2022 and February this year, 68 per cent of people who called the Vinnies Emergency Helpline identified as female, and were likely to be within the age cohorts of 25 to 49 years (62 per cent) and 50 to 64 years (23 per cent).

“These alarming numbers call for an urgent call to action,” Mr Feint said. “This winter, we are aiming to raise $400,000 to support women like Joan in the ACT and surrounding regions.

“The funds raised will be used to provide emergency accommodation so vulnerable older women have a safe place to sleep. Additionally, the funds will be used to provide urgent and practical support such as food, clothing, essential goods, rental payments, accommodation assistance, and medical costs to help prevent homelessness.”

Last winter, Vinnies volunteers provided emergency assistance worth $550,000 in the ACT and surrounds through its emergency relief helpline, in addition to the work of its specialist homelessness services.

“This was only possible because of the generosity of our community,” Mr Feint said.

“We’re asking the Canberra region to support us again this year, which will enable us to continue this crucial support for those in need.”

To donate to the Vinnies 2023 Winter Appeal to help provide emergency accommodation so vulnerable older women have a safe place to sleep, call 13 18 12 or visit www.vinnies.org.au

Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea turns 30!

Thursday 25 May will mark the thirtieth annual Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea (ABMT), where Aussies have come together throughout the decades and raised over $200 million for those affected by cancer.

Participants can host their way, whether that be in person or online, anytime in May or June.

Every dollar goes towards helping the Cancer Council continue their life-saving cancer research, prevention, advocacy, and support programs, like the 13 11 20 information and support line.

This year, Cancer Council hopes to raise $13 million nationwide.

Within the ACT, this will go towards expanding their liaison service, which allows patients and their supporters to drop in for a chat about anything to do with their cancer journey, from questions about treatment to pro bono service referrals.

According to Cancer Council ACT, the need for this service is urgent and growing.

Almost one in two Australians will be

diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, meaning no one is left unaffected.

Each morning tea is as unique as the stories behind it.

Canberra man Scott Marshall is one of the longest running hosts in the country.

He hosted his first ABMT 30 years ago, around the time his mum was diagnosed with colon cancer and has held one almost every year since – even after she lost her battle with the disease.

Scott says, “It has always been to say thank you.”

When his mother was diagnosed, Scott reached out to the Cancer Council for advice on how to best support her.

“When I needed some help and assistance, they gave it to me,” he says.

“They shared tips and advice on how to care for her, how to make sure she’s comfortable.

“Getting advice from an organisation like the Cancer Council, who have seen most if not all of it, really helped get us on track.

“I had heard about Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea and thought, this is my way of paying it back.

“My mum was a pretty good cook back in her day,” Scott smiles. “I’ve always been spoiled with cakes, and I thought it was a good excuse to share some of that.”

While he says he didn’t inherit his mum’s talent in the kitchen, that doesn’t stop him from whipping up a cake every year.

Photos Kerrie Brewer

A selection of Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea merchandise from the past 30 years.

“I always say to people, if I can cook, you can cook,” he laughs.

“I always try to encourage people to bring homemade goods because, in all these years, the homemade stuff goes first, and the packet of biscuits from the shop goes last.”

Over the past 30 years, Scott has hosted an ABMT event in every office he has worked in – from his days back with Ansett to now in the public service – shindigs of 10-15 people to divisional affairs that saw hundreds donate.

He isn’t sure of the exact number of dollars raised in that time but says it’s well within the thousands.

“The best year was actually last year, with help from family, friends and colleagues doing it online in the middle of the pandemic.

“I don’t mind rolling up my

sleeves to help out,” says Scott.

“By helping the Cancer Council, I feel that I’m not only paying it back but paying it forward.”

To register or donate, visit biggestmorningtea.com.au

- Anja de Rozario

Canberra man Scott Marshall is one of the longest running Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea hosts in the country, having hosted his first 30 years ago.

HAVE YOU HEARD?

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

GIVIT seeks pharmacy and Kmart vouchers

GIVIT is calling for the donation of pharmacy and Kmart vouchers for women and children across the Capital Region who have recently escaped family and domestic violence and are experiencing financial hardship. Generous Canberrans can donate pharmacy and Kmart vouchers or fund this request with 100% of money donated used to purchase vouchers to support the needs of these families. To donate, visit givit.org.au/whats-needed; Search Category: keyword ‘pharmacy voucher or Kmart voucher’; Location: ACT. GIVIT supports more than 400 charities and community groups across the Capital Region by matching your items with people who need them most.

Mother’s Day Fete in Hawker

On Saturday 6 May 9am-1pm at Christ Church Hawker (corner of Beetaloo Street and Belconnen Way). There will be a barbecue, curries and other light lunches, Trash & Treasure, books and games, pre-loved clothes and jewellery, an ‘S’ stall, cake stall, and children’s activities. Free admission. Enquiries: 0428 266 658. All welcome!

VIEW Club

Queanbeyan Evening: Our next dinner meeting is on Wednesday 17 May 6pm at the Vanilla Pod, Riverside Plaza, Queanbeyan. Cost: $35 for a twocourse dinner and raffles. Guest speaker: Roz Townsend, an author, funeral celebrant, and accredited mediator. RSVP to Sue on nasforbes@bigpond. com or 0448 427 237 by Sunday 14 May.

Yerrabi: Our next meeting is on 18 May 11am at Eastlake Club, Gungahlin. Guest speaker: Alana from Potter Travel. For more information or to RSVP and then join us afterward for lunch in the bistro, call Dorothy on 0419 698 091 or email dotric65@gmail.com by 15 May.

Canberra Jung Society

At our next meeting on Friday 5 May 7.30pm, Robbie Tulip will be giving a presentation on ‘Holistic Thinking: Jung’s Ethical Worldview’ from 8pm. We meet at MacKillop House, 50 Archibald St, Lyneham, and by Zoom. More info: canberrajungsociety.org.au or call 0406 375 670.

Bricks @ Woden School 2023

Come along and see local LEGO ® creators who are displaying at the annual Bricks @ Woden School event and enjoy a number of great activities on 20-21 May at The Woden School, 127 Denison St, Deakin. Open Saturday 9am-4pm (plus sensory session 4-5pm), Sunday 9am-2pm. Coordinated by the Canberra LEGO User Group (CLUG) in conjunction with The Woden School P&C Association, the show features over 40 local and interstate exhibitors, and promises to provide interesting and creative displays for all ages. A particular highlight will be a huge microscale city built by CLUG members. There will also be displays and posters from students at The Woden School, which provides individual education programs for students in years 7-12 with an intellectual disability and/or autism. The funds raised from the brick show will be used by the school for projects that directly benefit the students. There will be a BBQ, stalls and many other family-friendly activities over the weekend. Entry: $5 child, $10 adult, $20 family. Tickets: available online at www.trybooking.com/CHLDP. More info: email info@clug.com.au

Canberra Flower Club

Canberra Flower Club (Friendship through Flowers) meets the second Tuesday of the month 9.30am-12pm at Downer Community Centre. Our 9 May meeting will feature a Royal Easter Show prize-winning demonstrator from Sydney. $10 admission to help cover costs.

Probus Club

Narrabundah: Our next members’ meeting is on Tuesday 9 May 11am at Harmonie German Club. Guest speaker: Tom Flynn from the MDFoundation, talking about macular degeneration. Members usually enjoy lunch afterwards in the bistro and visitors are always welcome. Probus activities provide a great social experience for retired people. More info: call John on 0432 435 053.

Canberra Lakes Ladies: Celebrating 30 years as a successful social club for women, we meet on the third Monday of each month at the Robertson Room, St John’s Anglican Church, Reid. The next meeting is on Monday 15 May 10am-12pm. Retired or semi-retired women are most welcome to join us for a short meeting, followed by morning tea and a guest speaker. Members can participate in any of our activities which include a movie group, book swap, playing mahjong and monthly outings to interesting places or events. More info: call Colleen on 0409 420 809.

Queanbeyan: We are a combined men and women’s club which meets on the third Monday of each month at the Queanbeyan Ladies Bowling Club. The Club is an active group of retired and semi-retired seniors who regularly attend social events. More info: Dawn on 0419 114 832.

ADFAS Canberra

ADFAS Canberra continues to be excited about bringing overseas speakers back. On Tuesday 16 May 6pm at the National Library of Australia, Ian Gledhill will talk about the Golden Age of Vienna. Entry is $35, payable at the door. More info: adfas.org.au. Bookings: email adfasmembershipcanberra@gmail.com

Masterworks for Winds

The Band of the Royal Military College returns to Llewellyn Hall ANU on Saturday 20 May 7pm for its Masterworks for Winds concert series. Entry by gold coin donation, raising funds for Legacy. Bookings essential via eventbrite.com.au (search ‘Masterworks for Winds’).

Healthy ageing activities

Capital Health Network (CHN) is inviting community organisations, allied health organisations and other organisations to apply to deliver innovative healthy ageing activities within the ACT through a ‘Request for Proposal’ process. More info: bit.ly/3L4qizj

Community Kickstart by ISPT

Gungahlin Village, owned by ISPT, is giving away $10,000 to one local organisation to support their work in creating positive change in the lives and futures of those in the Gungahlin community. The program is open to all registered local groups and voluntary organisations. Applications close on Sunday 21 May, with the announcement of the successful group taking place on Monday 5 June. Community groups can apply via isptcommunitykickstart.com

Jack to hit the road

If you told me at the start of the year that Jack Wighton would sign with Souths, I wouldn’t have believed you; it still feels surreal.

Having been at the club for half his life now, he’s leaving for what we’re told is a change of scenery.

The emotion we saw on the weekend confirmed to me my belief that the move is not a reflection on the club, but a personal decision that must be respected. We know the bond Ricky shares with his playing group and the admiration his senior players have for him, Jack included.

Seeing a club junior leave $1.2 million on the table to move to a glamorous Sydney club is a worst-case scenario for the Raiders and antithetical to the NRL’s ideal of a balanced competition.

While you can’t hold someone against their will, it would have been good to see the NRL step in and offer an ambassadorial top-up payment to keep a club junior and fan favourite in a regional rugby league heartland. We know the Raiders’ huge investment in regional

pathways and seeing Jack leave for a hefty pay cut only serves as a disincentive.

This whole saga could prove a blessing in disguise if we can utilise the newfound cap space. There is a strong youthful core in Seb Kris, Matt Timoko, Xavier Savage, Corey Horsburgh and Hudson Young that can be built around.

It’s a dark week for Raiders fans, but an important time to get behind the club. We saw how much the jersey still means to Jack.

- Green Machine Fan (name supplied), Brisbane QLD

Replace keyboards with shovels

Dream on!

My fantasy is that the bureaucrats working for the ACT’s Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate are non-literate thereby replacing their keyboards with shovels and doing some much needed weeding in the totally neglected southside Nature Reserves. At the same time whilst weeding, they can also get a more accurate count of the number of kangaroos.

- Julie Lindner, Farrer ACT

Taxpayers fund EV subsidies

Re: Electric vehicles increase by a third in ACT in three months (CW 27 April 2023). Is it really surprising that there has been an increase in sales of EVs? The Barr/Rattenbury government have already decreed that it is their intention to have 90 per cent of vehicles sold in the ACT by 2030 will be EVs. To achieve this goal, they are offering incentives such as free vehicle registration, stamp duty exemptions and interest free loans, all of which all the rate/taxpayers in the ACT are funding/subsidising.

The article claims that registration data shows there is a clear appetite for zero emissions transport in the ACT. I would not consider 1.2 per cent to be clear appetite. Apart from the fact that the government fleet has 250 vehicles already with another 130 on order, this would reduce the 1.2 per cent involves very little private ownership.

A real measure of transition to EVs would have to be how many residences have only EVs.

The batteries in EVs do not last as long and will need replacing more often than in the (continued page 18)

TO THE EDITOR

(from page 17)

petrol cars. EV batteries can cost up to $25,000 each; if you buy a used EV you may be up for a new battery sooner rather than later. It has been claimed, the more often the battery is charged the more likely it is to degrade. If your EV battery dies, you could be out in the middle of nowhere. Or the battery could go up in flames, which Lithium-ion batteries have a tendency to do.

- Vi Evans, Macgregor ACT

Want to share your opinion?

space restrictions dictate.

The Geek Markets, Exhibition Park in Canberra.

PUZZLES & STARS

No.

PLAY UNLIMITED PUZZLES ONLINE

canberraweekly.com.au/puzzles

TAu R u S APR 21 – MAy 21

You may receive unexpectedly good financial or work news that could boost your circumstances. The lunar eclipse on Saturday will reboot your personal life if your birthday is on or before Saturday, and will revitalise your usual schedule or health if your birthday is afterwards.

g E mi N i MAy 22 – JuN 21

You’ll enjoy reconnecting with your past and reunions will be fun and maybe even unexpected. Saturday’s lunar eclipse will bring focus to a fresh work or daily routine if you were born in May, and to the chance to reimagine your personal life if you were born in June.

CANCER JuN 22 – Jul 22

The entry of Venus in your sign will bring your attention to love and money over coming weeks and, combined with the lunar eclipse on Saturday, a fresh direction or career move could be on the cards. You may even be surprised by news midweek.

BRAIN BUSTERS

1 to which Beatle did Jane Asher become temporarily engaged?

LE O Jul 23 – AuG 23

ACROSS

1 Drench (4)

3 Whatever the risks may be (2,3,5)

10 Dabbler (7)

11 Worry (7)

12 Aesthetically pleasing (8)

13 i nexpensive (5)

14 Writer of verse (4)

15 Optical instrument (10)

18 uS motorway system (10)

20 Domestic animals (4)

21 Educate (5)

23 Speed (8)

26 Permitted (7)

27 Word made from the letters of another (7)

28 Cut off from the sea (10)

29 Shoot (4)

DOWN

1 Graceful bird (4)

2 Awe (9)

4 Person who uses violence for political aims (9)

5 Overdrafts (5)

6 Options (7)

7 Show amusement (5)

8 Suffering from insomnia (9)

9 t idings (4)

14 Colourful team shooting sport (9)

16 Make reprisals (9)

17 Removed from power (9)

19 Act of renewing (7)

22 u K singer lily – (5)

23 Early form of Sanskrit (5)

24 Cousin of the oyster (4)

25 Self-satisfied (4)

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

2 Which sport did Kareem AbdulJabbar play?

3 Who was the first premier of New South Wales?

4 i n what country is the city of Pretoria?

5 Denali is the highest mountain peak on which continent?

SOLUTIONS

You’ll enjoy being spontaneous and socialising and networking with an upbeat circle. Saturday’s lunar eclipse puts you in a fresh frame of mind concerning your selfdevelopment in such areas as travel, study or spirituality. A legal or ethical matter may surprise you.

vi R g O AuG 24 – SEPt 23

You’ll be in a good position to negotiate and improve your financial or career circumstances this week, so take the initiative. You may undergo a change of situation in a shared area, such as joint finances or space at home, which may even be unexpected.

L i BRA SEPt 24 – OCt 23

You’ll get the chance to spend quality time with someone special, such as a long-term friend. Saturday’s lunar eclipse will encourage you to turn a corner in a collaboration or shared enterprise, and it may involve a surprise.

SCOR pi O OCt 24 – NOv 22

Saturday’s lunar eclipse signals a fresh chapter in a work or personal partnership if you were born before November 9th, and a fresh daily or health schedule if you were born afterwards. You’re also in line for a lucky or a fun development, so take the initiative.

SAgi TTAR iu S NOv 23 – DEC 21

Circumstances that affect your daily routine will arise, with Saturday’s lunar eclipse presenting the chance to anchor a particular work or health schedule, so be ready to negotiate if necessary. It’s also a good time to cultivate romance in your life as your efforts will succeed.

CA p R i CORN DEC 22 – JAN 20

You’ll appreciate the chance to indulge in some of your favourite pastimes, improving health and being creative. A romantic, family or work development could be fortunate, so if something new is attractive to you, be sure to investigate a little more deeply.

AquAR iu S JAN 21 – fEB 19

This is a lovely weekend for socialising, so be sure to organise something fun. You’ll enjoy a trip or visit. Saturday’s lunar eclipse will kickstart a fresh chapter at home or with family and could also motivate you to update or repair a device or a vehicle.

pi SCES fEB 20 – MAR 20

This is a good week to invest in yourself and those you love. A little DIY or home improvement could be a lovely way to do so. Saturday’s lunar eclipse will shine a light on your relationships and communications. You may even be surprised by news midweek.

AR i ES MAR 21 – APR 20

Developments this week will encourage you to seek perspective and potentially even to see yourself in a new light. Saturday’s lunar eclipse will spotlight an important and key area in which you will begin to share finances in a fresh way.

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

“Where nature meets perfection”

Mo er’s Day GIFT GUIDE

Looking for inspired Mother’s Day gift ideas or special ways to spend time with Mum?

Check out these o erings from some of the Canberra region’s leading businesses.

Mother’s Day 2023 is on Sunday 14 May

Make mum feel special

Treat your Mum to an exclusive shopping spree at Debbie Maree’s Fashion Boutique. She will have access to the most exquisite Australian and international ladies’ fashion brands, as well as seasonal ranges crafted by local artisans. This boutique is more than just a store, it’s a place where women leave feeling beautiful and confident.

234 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan

Ph: 6299 3335

Weekdays 9.30am - 5.30pm

Saturday 9am - 3pm

Sunday Closed

Honouring mums and mother figures

International Mother’s Day is celebrated in over 40 countries, many of which, including Australia, mark the occasion on the second Sunday in May. It’s a special day to honour mums and mother figures, motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society.

The modern observance has its roots in the USA in 1907, when Anna Jarvis organised the first Mother’s Day service to be held at her local church in West Virginia, two years after the death of her beloved mother, a peace activist. Four decades earlier, fellow peace activist Julia Ward Howe had made a Mother’s Day proclamation calling on mothers of all nationalities to unite to promote “the great and general interests of peace”. By the 1920s, Jarvis was already frustrated by what she considered the increasing commercialisation of the day.

Today, Australians typically mark the occasion by preparing a special meal or eating out, o ering gifts and flowers, or doing chores to give Mum a welcome day o . It can be a challenging occasion for those whose mothers have died or whose relationship with their mother is strained or absent.

To loving mothers everywhere, we salute you.

Lather Up: Soap-Making Intro

Located at the Holt Village Shops, the Wattlebird Soap Kitchen is a hidden escape perfect for some creative time out. Our workshops are mindful, relaxing and run as small groups. Soap making taster workshops are run twice a month or you may wish to throw yourself into the craft and join one of the Cold Process Soapmaking Level 1 workshops to gain the confidence to make soap at home. Gift vouchers are available.

wattlebirdcanberra.com

GIFT GUIDE Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day Hamper Collection

Shop local this Mother’s Day with our range of carefully curated and lovingly created gift hampers filled with Canberra-made goodies. Whether you’re looking for the perfect vino gift, or a decadent pamper pack, we have the gift for Mum. Shop our Mother’s Day Collection via our website today.

www.giftandcrate.com.au

Shop in time for Mother’s Day

Join us for Museum Market Day, featuring local and interstate stallholders offering jewellery, ceramics, crafts and more! Enjoy music and entertainment from DJ Jungle Jerry and Will Campbell, and pop-up fashion with renowned stylist Trish Murray. Food and drinks available for purchase.

Friends receive 20% discount on purchases inside the Museum Shop*

Sunday 7 May, 9am–2pm

Visit nma.gov.au/market-day

*20% discount includes instore and online purchases for one day only

Not sure what to buy Mum? Purchase a gift voucher from the Museum Shop Visit shop.nma.gov.au/collections/mothers-day

Give Mum the gift of Happy Feet!

Spoil Mum with the gift of comfort from Happy Fit Footwear. Treat her to a cosy pair of slippers that are perfect for lounging around the house or buy her a gift certificate so she can choose her own style.

Happy Fit Footwear take pride in offering an extensive range of comfortable, stylish footwear that are orthotic friendly, enabling them to fit even the most difficult of foot shapes. So why wait? Visit Happy Fit Footwear today and give your mum the gift of comfort that she deserves.

happyfitfootwear.com.au

Quality Australian Hemp Products

Our store o ers a diverse range of unique gift ideas across various categories, including healthy food and oils, skin and haircare, baby products, bedding, home and kitchen accessories, clothing, pet products, fabrics and crafting materials, and books. Whatever the circumstance, you’re sure to find the perfect gift at our store.

84 Wollongong St, Fyshwick 0431 318 898

GIFT GUIDE Mother’s

Give the Gift of Southern Charm and Laughter with Steel Magnolias for Mother’s Day!

This Mother’s Day, treat your mum to a timeless classic with Steel Magnolias, the beloved play that celebrates the strength and resilience of Southern women. With unforgettable characters, hilarious moments, and poignant themes, this play is the perfect way to bond with your mum and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So skip the flowers and chocolates this year and give your mum a gift that she’ll truly treasure. Get your tickets to Steel Magnolias today and celebrate Mother’s Day in style!

Steel Magnolias | 10-20 May 2023

ACT Hub, Spinifex Street Kingston

Blissful Escape: Infrared Sauna & Float Tank Experience

Super mums, touched out mums, and mothers all around, we at Sauna Float ACT have a special o er just for you. Picture this...

A relaxing afternoon of unwinding, all to yourself. Starting with a peaceful hour in the infrared sauna, warm up your joints and body while detoxing out all your stress. Shortly after, step into our dimly lit floatation tank and e ortlessly float in our magnesium salts. Sleep that hour away in blissful darkness or soothe your soul with meditation. Afterwards allow our wonderful massage therapist to work out the knots in your overworked neck, back and shoulders. Finish up with a scenic view of the lake with herbal tea. *gift packages available online or in store saunafloatact.com.au

Big Screen Brilliance

If your mum is always saying she wants more quality family time, treat her to a surprise trip to the cinema. There’s a great range of new releases at HOYTS Belconnen and HOYTS Woden (hoyts.com.au) you can see this Mother’s Day, including Book Club: The Next Chapter and Marvel Studios’ Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Not sure what to choose? Then buy her a HOYTS Gift Card, so she can make the decision herself. Any change she has left over after buying tickets can be used for a glass of wine before or after the movie at Artie’s Bar and Café*, or a scoop of her favourite icecream at Ben and Jerry’s Scoop store.

HOYTS Gift Cards can be purchased in cinema or online at: shop.hoyts.com.au/

*Artie’s Bar and Café available at HOYTS Belconnen.

LET’S GET FIT FOR TRAVEL!

Do you have a holiday planned soon? Do you want to feel more confident in your fitness, mobility and increase your energy?

This 6 week program is for ladies looking to boost their confidence to feel fitter and stronger.

It’s time to fire up your fitness journey and make a change. Our Curves Fitness Coaches will encourage and support you in your preparation for your holiday adventures!

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. So start yours today! Let’s work towards better health and your holiday destination!

curvesbelconnenoffer.com

Reduce the signs of ageing and regain control over the appearance of your skin

Chemical peels are a great way to freshen up your skin this Mother’s Day. Peels gently stimulate activity to nourish, repair and rebuild the structures of the skin. We utilise di erent peeling agents which vary in strength to treat conditions such as acne, acne scarring, sun damage, discolouration, wrinkles and for general rejuvenation of the skin.

Our peels start from $115.

Eliminate fat and build muscle with this non-invasive body shaping

Emsculpt Neo is the first and only treatment of its kind, combining two energies to e ectively and non-invasively eliminate fat and build muscle in a single 30 minute session with no downtime. Exclusive to My Genesis in Canberra, be one of the first in Australia to experience the next generation of body sculpting.

Treatments start from $900.

Refresh and rejuvenate your skin

Restore firmness and youthfulness, tighten the skin on your face and neck

Titan is a non-surgical laser treatment which uses a safe, infrared light to heat the dermis well below the skin’s surface.

This controlled heating can cause immediate collagen contraction, resulting in tighter firmer skin. Titan takes years o your appearance!

Treatments start from $465.

Heal and rejuvenate your skin with light therapy - no pain and no down time

This Mother’s Day rejuvenate your skin and address concerns of ageing like fine lines and wrinkles with LED light technology. This gentle but e ective therapeutic treatment helps with inflammatory skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, eczema and psoriasis, as well as promoting collagen production. It also assists wound healing, reducing scars, swelling, bruising and is ideal for post surgery.

Treatments start from $100.

Give mum a MyGenesis gift voucher this Mother’s Day

The My Genesis Clinic is situated in The CAPS Clinic and o ers an extensive range of non-surgical face and body treatments. It has been operating for 25 years and hosts a team that are experts in their fields. The team is built up of Injecting Nurses, Dermal Clinicians and Dermal Therapists.

Bringing the

King Charles’ pick for Coronation Day

King Charles has crowned his coronation dish, and it reportedly costs around $38 to make. The King’s quiche comes packed with “delicate flavours of spinach, broad beans and fresh tarragon”. However, if you’re celebrating Coronation Day (6 May) there are countless quiche fillings to choose from. Here are four.

WITH TASTE EDITOR, ANJA DE ROZARIO

Easy quiche four ways

Serves 4 | Prep & Cook 45 mins

Base Recipe

220g frozen shortcrust pastry case

3 eggs

125ml (1/2 cup) pure cream

2 Tbsp finely grated Parmesan cheese Choice of filling (see below)

Preheat oven to 180°C. Line pastry case with baking paper and half fill with baking beads or uncooked rice. Bake blind for 10 minutes. Remove paper and beads or rice. Meanwhile, whisk eggs and cream together in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper and stir in parmesan.

Arrange filling of choice over pastry base. Carefully pour over egg mixture and evenly distribute filling. Bake for 20 minutes or until pastry is golden and filling is pu ed, golden and set. Set aside for 10 minutes before serving. Delicious warm or cold.

Leek, ham & mushroom filling

1 Tbsp olive oil

75g shortcut bacon, sliced

1 small leek, thinly sliced

150g button mushrooms, sliced

1 garlic clove, crushed

20g (1/4 cup) grated cheddar cheese Chopped chives, to serve

Heat oil in a large non-stick frying pan. Cook bacon and leek, stirring, for 5 minutes or until softened. Add mushrooms and garlic and cook,

stirring, for 3-4 minutes or until mushrooms are golden. Arrange the mushroom mixture and grated cheese over pastry base, finish o the base quiche recipe, then serve scattered with chopped chives.

Broccolini & feta filling

1 bunch broccolini, trimmed, blanched

1 Tbsp chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley 40g feta cheese, crumbled

Simply arrange the broccolini, parsley and feta over pastry base when ready.

Roasted pumpkin, ricotta & sage filling

1 1/2 cups roasted pumpkin cubes (or other roasted veg such as sweet potato)

1 Tbsp chopped fresh sage

80g (1/3 cup) fresh ricotta cheese, crumbled

Arrange the pumpkin, sage, and ricotta over pastry base when ready.

Cherry tomato, asparagus & goat’s cheese filling

1 bunch asparagus, cut into 6cm lengths, blanched

100g cherry tomatoes, halved 40g soft goat’s cheese, crumbled Basil leaves, to serve

Arrange the asparagus, tomato, and feta over pastry base, finish o the base quiche recipe, then serve scattered with basil leaves.

Recipe and image courtesy of Australian Eggs.

See the story of the wizards who were also there, at The Q

We all know what the heroes were doing, but have you ever wondered what was happening behind the scenes in your favourite stories? Puffs lets you peek into the lives of the lesser-known characters of a certain wizarding school. The play hits the stage at The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre from 11 to 20 May.

“It’s not the story of that certain boy wizard, it’s not the story of the boy who lived. It’s the story of the Puffs – the story of the outcasts, the misfits and underdogs,” says director, Jordan Best.

Young wizards and witches are sorted into four houses at a prestigious wizarding school. The courageous are sent to the Braves, the sassy to the Snakes and the clever are sent to the Smarts. Which leaves, well, the rest – and they are destined to be the Puffs.

“They’re super loyal and kind and generous and they’re just really desperate to get third place,” smiles Best.

Puffs centres on Wayne and the misfit crew of

badger-loving weirdos. The characters include a maths genius, who is struggling with the fact that he isn’t that great at magic, a young witch who was raised by wolves, and an invisible spell caster.

“Goofy, a bit gullible, and with that, Puffs themselves being extremely weird. Everyone is weird in their own individual way,” says actor Nick Dyball.

While the Braves might have the boy who lived, destined to save the wizarding world from a terrifying threat, the Puffs have Wayne. Travelling all the way to attend school in England from Tumbarumba, New South Wales, Wayne is destined to be a hero, maybe.

“He was born on the same day as the Harry that we’ve heard of before and he could be what Harry is. He is an orphan, and he lives with his uncle Dave who is a bit of an alcoholic and doesn’t necessarily look out for Wayne that much, but he is very bright and silly,” says Dyball.

For Dyball, playing Wayne was a way to

represent the characters who may have been left out in the original series. The actor says he enjoyed the original series but not the writing. In the background, the audience will see parts of the story they know and love.

Visit a somewhat familiar magic world in Puffs at The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 11- 20 May; theq.net.au

- Jessica Cordwell

Photo Kerrie Brewer

Actor Nick Dyball (left) and director Jordan Best bring Puffs to the stage at The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre, 11-20 May.

Private yoga classes

Tailored coaching packages

Enrolments now open for Term 2

All classes include postures, breathing and deep relaxation practices

Relax, recharge, build selfawareness & emotional resilience

Bookings online at www.yogaontheridge.com.au

Or contact Katherine 0409 972 620

Take 5 with Stephanie Bull, Director of MoAD

From the Australian War Memorial to the National Museum of Australia, Stephanie Bull has been curating Australian stories for nearly three decades. She recently stepped into the role of Director of Museum of Australian Democracy (MoAD). CW’s Jessica Cordwell chatted with Ms Bull about plans for the museum and the importance of our history.

1 Tell us why you took on this new role.

I am passionate about Australian history and social history and being able to tell those stories for the public on site and across the nation.

2

Have you always had an interest in politics?

I have a strong interest in social and Australian history; there are many facets to our nation’s history and I love telling that story. National collecting institutions, whether they are a gallery or a library or a museum but also local, regional museums, and communityrun volunteer-run museums in country towns, all play a significant role in

telling the story of our community. Here at MoAD, we get to do that on a national scale.

3

What do you have planned for MoAD?

We are just starting the process of developing a new strategic plan. To simplify it, there would be two key focus areas. One is to tell more of the story of the people here and on site and to take the story of the people’s house to the people around the country.

4

Who are the people on site?

Often, I think people might think of Old Parliament House as just being

about the politicians but it’s absolutely not the case. There’s a whole community here. One of the things I was excited to learn when I started here, one of the heritage experts showed me the heritage kitchens here. In any one year, the kitchens would prepare 350,000 meals. It was a real city, a real hub.

5

Why is it important to share these histories?

Everyone’s history matters; everybody has a story. Everybody has a story to tell whether it is as individuals, communities, families, organisations or as a nation, these stories matter. Learning and understanding our past helps us shape and participate in the future.

Answers have been condensed for publication.

Keep up to date with the Museum of Australian Democracy; moadoph.gov.au

PUFFS

by Matt Cox

11-20 May

A play for anyone who has never been destined to save the world

Direct from London's West End production of Phantom of the Opera

PAUL ETTORE TABONE IN Golden

Days

The Songs from the Movies and Musicals

6 May 2023

Get ready to SWING THAT MUSIC, Canbe a!

Ed Wilson and Emma Pask are coming to Canberra with their amazing jazz/ swing/big band skills for a strictly one-o celebration with the incredible Australian Wind Symphony. Experience Swing That Music at Hellenic Club, Woden on Thursday 25 May at 8pm.

Long before Postmodern Jukebox put their retro arrangements over contemporary songs, trombonist Ed Wilson spent the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s swinging, rocking and funking with jazz standards and pop songs. Ed’s career exploded in 1969 via the iconic Daly–Wilson Big Band, Australia’s internationally acclaimed and most successful Jazz Big Band, and five decades later he’s still blowing up a storm.

One of Australia’s great music icons, Ed has worked with some of the biggest names in

TIME OUT

Now showing

Polite Society (M)

In London, British-Pakistani teenager Ria Khan (Priya Kansara) trains with her older sister Lena (Ritu Arya) to be a stuntwoman. Lena has returned home after leaving her art college and, by way of her strict, traditional parents, is soon being wooed by the bachelor Salim (Akshay Khanna) who is hunting for a wife. As Lena strays closer to giving up her dreams of being an artist, the fiercely independent Ria looks to save her sister from the patriarchy.

Those expecting a soft blending of a traditional romantic story and a Bollywood production such as Bride and Prejudice, or a sports-comedy-drama about the challenges of a youth from a traditional immigrant family trying to assimilate into British contemporary society à la Bend it Like Beckham are sure to be disappointed. Polite Society is its own wacky blend of genres, including high

showbiz

- Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jnr, Liza Minelli, Bobby Darin, Tony Bennett, and Tom Jones to name a few. Ed was an integral member of the orchestras for major television shows including the Don Lane show, Geo Harvey’s band at Channel 9, and Tommy Tycho’s band at Channel 7. This performance features custom arrangements by Ed for the Australian Wind Symphony, not least of which is the ominously named No Lockdown Here, written in early 2020, jinxing this event with four COVID-related postponements! Not this time!

Joining Ed and the Australian Wind Symphony on stage is one of Australia’s favourite jazz vocalists, Emma Pask. Emma’s two-decade career began when she was spotted by the legendary James Morrison –who once dubbed her “the greatest gift to

school drama, kung-fu shenanigans and possible sci-fi threats. Whereas Ria’s initial focus on the evils of the patriarchy threatening her and her sister’s independent spirits is vague, her increasing anger and determination become focused once a mysterious conspiracy comes further to light to raise the stakes.

While the kung-fu fighting contrasted against a traditional Pakistani background is the key signature hook here, such sequences are played literally instead of utilising magical realism or surrealism, jarring the reality of the movie’s environments and confusing its overall tone.

Verdict: While an intriguing concept due to the action, violence, and potential social commentary, the writer/ director’s feature directorial debut comes across as quite silly and immature instead. 2 stars.

- Luke McWilliams themovieclub.net Viewed at Dendy Cinemas.

Australian jazz vocals in the last decade”. From performing at Nicole Kidman’s wedding to Keith Urban, dazzling audiences around the globe and featuring on The Voice, Emma’s e ortless honest stage presence combined with her powerful vocal ability leaves audiences spellbound and inspired whenever she takes to the stage.

After 50+ years and thousands of events, Ed’s calling this his last gig. “Ed has chosen to close his stellar career in Canberra with the 40-piece Australian Wind Symphony,” says Artistic Director Geo Grey. “This is a coup for the Capital Region, marking this great event as one that can’t be missed for music lovers of any age.”

Bookings are available via the websites of the Australian Wind Symphony or the Hellenic Club.

WIN! Marlowe film passes

When private detective Phillip Marlowe (Liam Neeson) is hired to find the ex-lover of a glamorous heiress, it looks to be an open and shut case, but Marlowe soon finds himself in the underbelly of Hollywood’s film industry of the 1930s and unwittingly drawn into the crossfire of a legendary Hollywood actress (Jessica Lange) and her subversive, ambitious daughter (Diane Kruger).

In cinemas 18 May.

CW has 5 x Marlowe (MA15+) in-season double passes to be won.

Enter to win

To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberraweekly.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 12 May 2023 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.

‘Swing That Music’ with Ed Wilson, Emma Pask and the Australian Wind Symphony at Hellenic Club, Woden, Thursday 25 May 8pm.

Show how much you love her Mother’s Day

Spend $50 in Centre* and receive a FREE Dusk Candle from the Artisan Collection.

*T&C’s Apply. See website for full details.

6 - 14 May

MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND

We invite all mums and mums at heart to enjoy themselves at our Mother’s Day Pamper Place!

There will be lots of freebies including a ‘Mum-Osa’, Mother’s Day cards, hamper giveaways and grazing platters!

13 and 14 May | 11am – 2pm

Local author tells of bunyips and stars

The traditional and the new come together in the new book from Canberra preschool teacher Adam Duncan and illustrated by Paul Lalo, Bunyip and the Stars, recently launched at the National Museum of Australia (NMA).

The book is the first of five in a series commissioned by the NMA, inspired by the play areas in the Museum’s Tim and Gina Fairfax Discovery Centre. The series will be printed by National Museum of Australia Press and released over the next few years.

Debuting his first children’s book, Mr Duncan developed the story with the preschool children he teaches at the University of Canberra Wiradjuri Preschool and Child Care Centre in Bruce. Creating stories together is a staple part of the education curriculum, often giving the children the bare bones of a story and encouraging them to explore the subject, in this case, stars.

The Bunyip and the Stars tells the story of the importance of the connection between country and family. Ngariin (Big Sister) has to use her knowledge of her Country, the bushlands and mob stories to find Wumbirr (Little Brother) who has been taken by the bunyip.

Mr Duncan says the bunyip is most recognised as a monster that

lives in billabongs and freshwater lakes in Australia’s interior. They are known for causing mayhem and snatching livestock and people who are swimming when they shouldn’t be.

“They live under the water and snatch people up; they’ve been described in a lot of different ways depending on the story being told. They’re depicted as sea serpent-like creatures but typically they are bestial creatures,” he says.

The bunyip has deep roots in Indigenous storytelling; it is a quintessentially Australian creature whose stories continued after settlement and have also been told by non-Indigenous storytellers, Mr Duncan says. Growing up, the author didn’t have any traditional knowledge, and says he learnt storytelling from conventional European literature.

“I feel like the traditional stories were something that my family were unfortunate enough to have not had, but I had very strong cultural role models in that my father and my grandparents were very active community members,” he says.

Bunyip and the Stars by Adam Duncan and Paul Lalo is available at nma.gov.au

- Jessica Cordwell

Book talk

This week, Jeff Popple reviews three great books for Mum this Mother’s Day! More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

Motherland

by Stephanie Trethewey

Allen

& Unwin,

$34.99

In 2019, Stephanie Trethewey left her role as an accomplished journalist and moved to rural Tasmania with her farmer husband. Challenged by the loneliness of life on the land, Trethewey launched Motherland, a not-for-profit organisation intent on eliminating the sense of isolation for rural mums. The organisation and the connections she formed inspired Trethewey to write Motherland, which is a fascinating behind the scenes look at the lives of 14 rural mothers spread across Australia. Sharing stories of love and tragedy, Motherland gives rare insight into life on the land. A great present for all mothers!

The Tea Ladies

by Amanda Hampson

Penguin, $32.99

Amanda Hampson’s latest novel, The Tea Ladies, is a marvellous recreation of 1960s Sydney and a witty murder mystery that will appeal to a wide range of mothers. Featuring a terrific new sleuth in the form of tea lady Hazel Bates, The Tea Ladies is a smoothly written story that effortlessly glides its way through a twisty plot. Hazel is the long-standing tea lady at Empire Fashionwear, and in her own quiet way is an influential figure as she moves across the social divides within the factory. When murder occurs, Hazel springs into action. A good mystery that is perfect for fans of Miss Marple.

Time After Time

by Karly Lane

Allen & Unwin, $29.99

Mothers who enjoy small country town stories will appreciate the heart-warming novel Time After Time. Australian rural romance veteran Karly Lane adds another touching book to her resume with this latest novel about a woman who has to decide between love and career. Alice Croydon is on the verge of marrying her small-town childhood sweetheart, when she gets the offer of a lifetime. The only trouble is that it involves her moving across to the other side of the world. But one day she will have to return home. An enjoyable read that will be warmly welcomed by fans of Australian romance writing.

Canberra Weekly competition winners

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

SkullCandy x Burton Crusher: T Dobie, Duffy.

Swing That Music: M Dunn, Bonner; K Groeschel, Bruce; J Gillan, Isabella Plains. Jimmy Brings: E Grigorieva, Macgregor; G Watson, Chifley; R Fleurant, Kambah; F Solari, Evatt.

German Film Festival: D Stevens, Theodore; T Jiggins, Nicholls; M Tee, Palmerston; T Mcintosh, Conder; C Neave, Lyneham.

Fleurette Aromatherapy: B McIntosh 2603.

Crimes of the Heart

TIME OUT

what’s on

BUDDHIST VESAK ALMS ROUND

THE TURNER BROWN BAND

MAY

07 MAY

MARKET DAY

Discover beautiful goods from both local and interstate stall holders. As you wander, pick up a delicious snack and soak up live entertainment.

MAY

Male and Female Monastics from across Australia will be in a special Vesak “alms round” near Canberra Times Fountain, City Walk by the Canberra Centre. Come say G’day and put some rice in each Monastic’s bowl to symbolise love, humility and gratitude.

Canberra Times Fountain, City Walk, Friday 12 May 10.15am; australiansangha.org

22

HOMESCHOOL OPEN DAY

Looking for a totally customised learning experience for your child? Have you considered homeschooling? It is easier than you think and there is a large and vibrant homeschooling community in Canberra. Come and meet homeschooling families and providers at the first-ever Homeschool Open Day.

MAY

Returning to Canberra for one show only, The Turner Brown Band – a joint Australia/USA musical collaboration between Australian slide guitarist and music producer Dom Turner (Backsliders) and Ohio-based lap-slide guitar and vocal sensation Nikki D Brown – offers an eclectic uplifting duelling-guitar gospelblues musical feast. This four-piece powerhouse band will blow your mind! Grab tickets before they sell out. Tuggeranong Arts Centre, Saturday 13 May 7.30pm; tuggeranongarts.com

National Museum of Australia, Sunday 7 May 9am- 2pm; nma.gov.au

11-21

MOUSETRAP

O’Connor Uniting Church, Monday 22 May 4pm-7pm; homeschoolopendaycanberra. weebly.com

MAY

Continuing its record run, the genre-defining murder mystery from Agatha Christie brings intrigue and danger to the Canberra stage.

Canberra Theatre Centre, 11-21 May; canberratheatrecentre.com.au

Find more listings at canberraweekly.com.au

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

Learn all about how to teach your child at the Homeschool Open Day, O’Connor Uniting Church, 22 May.

Dom Turner and Nikki Brown bring The Turner Brown Band to Tuggeranong Arts Centre, 13 May.

Photo Andrew Orr

Drop love, humility and gratitude in the bowls of Monastics at City Walk on 12 May.

Best of the Met 2023

Four years after his death, German-born designer Karl Lagerfeld is the controversial theme of fashion’s biggest night of the year. There was a four-word code for the 2023 Met Gala: “In honour of Karl,” who, over a 65-year career, worked with Chloe, Fendi, Balmain, and Patou. However, he is most remembered for revolutionising the house of Chanel. While some notable faces were missing on the night, including one Miss Blake Lively, several other celebs jumped at the opportunity to dress to the nines.

Emily Ratajkowski injected her natural bombshell glamour into this Chanel-inspired look. The dove grey gown is Tory Burch, and the hair moment is taken straight from vintage Chanel runways.

Moments after gracing the red carpet, supermodel Anok Yai was declared the best dressed of the evening on Instagram, radiant from head to toe in this stunning design by Prabal Gurung.

Jenna Ortega was a living doll in this Victoriana look was designed by Thom Browne. The monochrome colour palette, abundance of gold chains and pearls are all Karl Lagerfeld signatures.

As far as guests dressing as Lagerfeld’s beloved pet cat, Choupette, go, Doja Cat’s hooded silver gown by Oscar de la Renta was by far the preferred choice. Never one to do things by halves, Doja’s gown reportedly took more than 5000 hours and 350,000 beads to create.

WITH FASHION & BEAUTY EDITOR, ANJA DE ROZARIO

Eco-friendly laundry habits

Winter is setting in and as we come in from the cold and rain, so too does our laundry. Unfortunately, this leads to cranking up the heat and endless tumble drying to get wet clothes ready to wear, which can have a big impact on the environment and your energy bills.

Australian households are responsible for one-fifth of Australia’s total emissions, which is especially significant considering that Australia emits more emissions per capita than any other Western nation.

Using an airer over a tumble dryer to dry wet laundry (especially in winter) lessens the impact on the environment and your budget, says sustainability advocate, Sally Flower of Home Sanctuary.

In partnership with laundry specialist Hills, Sally outlines the reasons why, when it comes to drying clothes, natural is best.

Natural is best when drying your washing

Small changes to your indoor laundry habits can make a big difference.

“Instead of using your clothes dryer, drying clothes can be done naturally with two simple

natural ingredients, sun and air, with the ideal alternative being an airer. To maximise drying efficiency, I recommend positioning your airer in the warmest, breezy spot. This could be under an open window, over an air vent or by an open door – all allowing for quality airflow,” says Sally.

“Once you have found the best drying position, it’s time to get smarter with your washing days. Before rushing off to start another load, consult your weather app and opt for sunny warmer days, if possible.”

Smarter washing day habits

Keep your home tidy and plan for drying to take place when you are out of the house. Most washing machines have timers, meaning you can set them to finish as you wake up and get the bulk of your clothes dry while you are at work.

Smart space savers

The key to a tidy laundry is finding foldable clothes airers.

“There is always a suitable airer for the space available as well as a storage solution,” says Sally,

such as under the bed, under or behind the couch, tucked in beside the fridge, or behind an internal door that is generally left open, inside the pantry, standing up on a balcony, lying flat on a top shelf, coat cupboard or against a wall with a plant in front.

A-frames also offer a flat space for folding clothes.

“Speed up your laundry time and fold clothes on the airer, move to the laundry basket and return folded clothes straight into drawers and cupboards. This reduces wrinkles, folding time and saves your back,” says Sally.

For more information, visit hillshome.com.au

Hills aluminium A-frame airer, $99, Bunnings Warehouse

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Available at ambertech.com.au

One lucky CW reader will win Jays a-Seven Wireless headphones in grey, valued at $219.

Enter to win

To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberraweekly.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find this competition and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 12 May 2023 and winner drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.

Decorating is fun, until you get stuck. Even for smaller projects, our expert help is at hand. We offer decorating solutions for curtains and blinds, rugs, flooring, fabric, furniture, colours and more from our Choose your own Adventure service menu.

Call or visit our website to find out how we help you avoid mistakes and bring it together

REAL ESTATE North-facing oasis

Nicholls ACT 15 Wendy Ey Place

This stunning five-bedroom home blends touches of luxury with an abundance of space for growing or extended families, featuring not just one, but four generously sized living areas. Agent Virginia Stoker absolutely loves the spaciousness and versatility on offer.

“The immaculate gardens are also a standout feature; a serene and picturesque setting that’s perfect for unwinding and enjoying the outdoors,” she says. The private alfresco area lends itself to year-round celebrations and gatherings.

“And let’s not forget the tranquil garden views

creating a sense of peacefulness and serenity that is truly priceless.”

The surrounding area offers a range of boutique specialty shops, cafés, golf courses, and even a walk-in aviary, which provides endless opportunity for relaxation and recreation.

This north-facing oasis on Harcourt Hill extends an exceptional living experience, with enough room for a large family to spread out, while convenience is never sacrificed.

“There is so much room to relax, play, entertain and spend quality time with

5 3 3

EER 5.0

Auction Sat 13 May 10am

Price Contact agent

View Thu 4 May 5.15-5.45pm Sat 6 May 10.30-11am

Agent Virginia Stoker Mob 0434 610 698

LJ Hooker Gungahlin | 6213 3999

31/14 Trevillian Quay, Kingston $1,780,000 Boris.

30 Kanooka Street, Rivett $1,370,000 Confidence

51 Doris Turner Street, Forde $1,335,000 MARQ

2 Ambalindum Street, Hawker $1,320,000 Property Collective

1/35 Esperence Street, Red Hill $1,300,000 Belle

25 Thorpe Avenue, Queanbeyan $1,280,000 McNamee

57 Trinca Street, Denman Prospect $1,250,000 Belle

38 Helen Leonard Crescent, Forde $1,155,000 Independent

18 Aldor Green, Conder $1,100,000 Ray White

109 Cooma Street, Queanbeyan $1,000,000 White Rhino

52/121 Thynne Street, Bruce $940,000 Home by Holly

9 Simonetti Street, Dunlop $910,000 LJ Hooker

31 Parkview Crescent, Jerrabomberra $890,000 Belle

20 Springbett Street, Kambah $865,000 Michael Potter

39 Partridge Street, Fadden $850,000 Edge

32 Moonlight Avenue, Harrison $842,000 Canberry

17 Bicheno Mews, Watson $825,000 Michael Potter

6 Don Banks Crescent, Whitlam $820,000 Edge

18 Meagher Place, Evatt $820,000 Blackshaw

16 Boote place, Spence $815,000 Town Residential

7 Dalyell Street, Chisholm $768,500 Ray White

3/155 Plimsoll Drive, Casey $760,000 Blackshaw

20 Maharatta Circuit, Isabella Plains $754,000 LJ Hooker

2 Farrelly Close, Oxley $746,000 Blackshaw

1/75 Bellhouse Crescent, Moncrieff $739,000 Canberry

52 Rockwood Street, Casey $730,000 Morrissey Property

34 Keppel Street, Harrison $725,000 Canberry

404/55 Dooring Street, Dickson $721,000 HIVE

69 Shoobridge Circuit, Dunlop $687,500 Luton

1323/15 Bowes Street, Phillip $685,000 VERV

11/7-9 Waterloo Street, Queanbeyan $680,000 Ward

20/22 Dulcie Holland Crescent, Moncrieff $680,000 Canberry

84/45 West Row, City $670,000 Archer

4/15 Jabanungga Avenue, Ngunnawal $650,000 Stone

4/6 Cunningham Street, Griffith $645,000 Home by Holly

20 Yerra Court, Ngunnawal $645,000

20 Springbett Street, Kambah

Greenway $350,000

46/21 Battye Street, Bruce $350,000 Morrissey Property Data is provided by agents. Source: Realestate.com.au

R U R A L S U R R O U N D S , C O U N T R Y L I V I N G

7 1 K a b a r d i n L a n e , Y o u n g N S W

P i c t u r e s q u e v i e w s m o d e r n h o m e r u r a l s u r r o u n d s ' K a n a n g r a ' i s a v e r y w e l l p r e s e n t e d f o u r - b e d r o o m b r i c k v e n e e r h o m e o n a n i m p r e s s i v e 1 2 1 5 h a ( 3 0 a c r e s )

L o c a t e d i n t h e h e a r t o f t h e H i l l t o p s R e g i o n , a p p r o x *

1 2 5 k m f r o m Y o u n g

A G E N T S :

0 a c r e s o f r i c h f e r t i l e s o i l s

O R S A L E

$ 1 , 0 5 0 , 0 0 0

For Sale $799,000

3 Bedroom Freehold Home in Community Setting 3

45/70 Little River Road, Braidwood, NSW, 2622

The village of Braidwood is a charming rural community located just an hour from Canberra and three hours from Sydney. It offers a number of attractions, including a golf course, wineries, shops & cafes, historic buildings and plenty of scenic walks.

* 6.6Kw solar system

* Ducted & zoned air-conditioning

* 5000 litre rainwater tank

* NBN fibre to the home

* North facing sun-room for passive solar

* Crimsafe security both front and back

* Heated indoor pool

* Clubhouse and gym

Jane Mackenzie-Ross 0400 472 577 janemross@atrealty.com.au

Three-bedroom townhouse with single garage.

6/21 Namadgi Circuit, Palmerston ACT 2913

3 | 2 | 1 | EER 0.5

This single level home is tucked away at the end of a quiet townhouse complex and presents as a blank canvas to add your own personal touch. Vacant and ready for immediate occupation, make sure you add this property to your inspection list. A short walk to Palmerston Shops and the sought-after Palmerston District Primary School, with Burgmann Anglican School, Gungahlin College, and Gungahlin Town Centre all very close by.

• All bedrooms with built in robes

• Main bedroom with ensuite plus bathroom with separate shower and bathtub

• Combined living and dining room

• Separate family room adjacent to kitchen

• NBN Connection, Fibre to the Premises

• Entertaining deck

• Single garage with internal access

• Vacant and ready to occupy

• Close to walking/cycling trails and Palmerston Oval

Hugo Mendez

hugo@hugocanberra.com.au

0421 349 916

Auction: Saturday 13 May, 9:30am on site

View: Saturday 6 May, 10:00am - 10:30am

PERFECT LIFESTYLE BLOCK

1987 Burley Griffin Way, Binalong NSW 2584

New rural style fencing has been installed, dividing the property into 3 paddocks. A creek runs through the property and irrigation for over 300 trees has been connected. A professionally installed 40 foot shipping container is included, enjoying amazing views over the shared dam and to the mountains that surround this stunning piece of country.

• 5.44 acres (approx.)

• Three fully fenced paddocks

• Dam and running creek

22014 sqm

• An array of over 300 trees

• Professionally installed shipping container

AUCTION Saturday 6th May 12pm, on site

VIEW Saturday 6 May, 11.30am

Jeremy Maher

M 0410 481 260

jeremy@binalongrealestate.com.au