14 September 2023

From the editor

A friend reminded me recently that “this life, the one we have been blessed to receive, is not a dress rehearsal”. And because none of us know when it may end, to live your life in the present. Find the joy in your life right now, she suggested. If joy is missing, make the time to [re]discover it and nurture this precious gift.

Finding joy can be as simple as literally stopping to smell the roses, pottering in the garden, feeling the sun’s warmth on your skin (slathered in SPF if required), wearing your favourite piece of clothing or savouring your favourite food, to bigger things – spending time with a person/ creature you love, doing things you enjoy, contributing to your community, and making time to nourish your wellbeing.

Not to say that planning is irrelevant, but not to let plans su ocate joy or mindfulness today. Carpe diem (seize the day) and enjoy life while you can.

Reasons to be grateful this past week include Lifeline Canberra’s spring Bookfair, wonderful company at the Karinya House Gala Dinner and the September Mentor Walk, Sunday brunch, a luxurious facial, and random acts of kindness. Take care,

The Oates family – Zac, Rick, Jono and Sarah – have connected over a newfound passion for GKR Karate.

Photo: Kerrie Brewer. See cover story, page 16.

Meet local hero candidates Mark Brosnan and Dr Lubna Alam

anberrans have been called upon to help select our local heroes and provide community initiatives with a cash injection via the Westfield Local Heroes program. This year, each winner will be awarded $20,000 for their nominated organisation while all finalists receive $5,000. Winners will be announced on Tuesday 10 October.

In the running at Westfield Belconnen are Mark Brosnan, volunteer with Mental Illness Education ACT (MIEACT), and Dr Lubna Alam, co-founder of ALO Enlightened Women Incorporated (ALO).

Sharing his mental health journey

Providing mental health and wellbeing education through programs in community groups, schools and workplaces across Canberra, MIEACT partners with people who have lived experience of mental illness. Their mission says the stories told by those who have lived experience help to promote early intervention, increase mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and emphasise recovery.

Hearing about MIEACT through his role at a community radio station, Mr Brosnan felt that he was at a point in his own journey where he could speak about his experience, particularly if something he went through resonated with someone else and helped them on their own journey.

“I go in with another volunteer, there’s always two of us, and I go in and I share my story. I speak for 15 to 20 minutes, just giving them an outline of what my

story is, where I’ve come from, and where I am now,” he says.

Surviving a knife attack in the workplace in 2006, Mr Brosnan’s life changed in that moment. Working in a dangerous field with people with diminished capacity and negative behaviours, the attack was the final straw, and he remembers the moment his mind ‘broke’.

“My life, for all intents and purposes, ended,” he says. “To say I lost everything would be an understatement.”

Realising something was wrong and that the world he knew had changed dramatically was a confronting experience. Mr Brosnan found a doctor who diagnosed him with Complex PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) and helped him start on the path to recovery.

Wanting to reclaim from mental illness some of the things it has stolen from his life, Mr Brosnan aims to help other people avoid the same mistakes.

“When I was at my worst, I thought that I couldn’t have any hopes or dreams or have a positive impact in the world ever again. When I started to realise that mental illness wasn’t the destination, it was a blip on the road, that I became bolder about talking to people about my experience.”

He loves that the Local Heroes program award wouldn’t go to him directly, instead going to the organisation he supports.

“If we did get the $20,000 it would just help us speak to thousands more students because the

demand far outweighs what we can deliver and what we’re doing is unique,” Mr Brosnan says.

Helping women from CALD backgrounds

Since 2020, ALO has been on a mission to help women from diverse backgrounds settle, assimilate and thrive in Australia. Through free programs, support and training, the organisation wants all women to unlock their potential and help future leaders thrive.

“ALO has been trying to lower the barriers for women from CALD (culturally and linguistically diverse) backgrounds to integrate into Australia easily,” Dr Alam says.

The topics covered in the various programs are broad, from self-care and mental health to car maintenance, financial literacy and leadership courses. While they try to focus on new migrants and women from refugee backgrounds, they also help women who have been in Australia for a while to progress to leadership roles.

“People who are not ready, like newly migrant refugees, we try to offer them free training and help in terms of writing resumes and interviewing skills,” she says.

Helping women prioritise themselves, their health and mental wellbeing is ALO’s Her Health series, an online platform that brings doctors into homes, while the leadership programs are driven by the idea that ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’.

“When women from multicultural backgrounds don’t see powerful women in positions that they can identify with, it hinders their aspirations for going for leadership roles. We’re running a campaign called ‘see it to be it’; we are trying to show authentic leadership CALD role models and also provide training programs.”

According to Dr Alam, the challenges faced by refugee and migrant women stem from several factors, including the cultural shock when they arrive, which is then exacerbated by the language barrier. There are factors such as the lack of skills recognition, where a woman could have experience that isn’t recognised in Australia.

“As a first-generation migrant myself, I’m intimately familiar with the difficulties and vulnerabilities that can emerge from the migration journey,” she says.

Dr Alam says that ALO is thrilled to be nominated for the award, with the recognition cementing the fact they are making a difference in the lives of migrant women.

“We will be able to offer more financial literacy and mental wellbeing programs and support for work and capacity building for working in Australia,” Dr Alam says.

Mark Brosnan has been nominated for his work with Mental Illness Education ACT. Photos supplied.

Dr Lubna Alam has been nominated as the Westfield Belconnen Local Hero for 2023 for her work with ALO Enlightened Women Incorporated.

- Jessica Cordwell Voting in the 2023 Westfield Local Heroes has closed. Winners will be announced on 10 October.

feature The CAPS Clinic

THE CAPS CLINIC CELEBRATES OF SERVICING CANBERRA 25 years

Canberra’s premier plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive clinic is this year celebrating 25 years of servicing the Canberra community.

The Canberra Aesthetic Plastic Surgery Clinic (CAPS Clinic) was founded by Dr Alastair Taylor, a highly qualified, leading plastic surgeon and his wife Cheryl Taylor, CEO of the business. Starting with a small team of two back in 1998, over the past 25 years the business has grown on a simple mantra.

“Our focus is to service the needs of the Canberra community. If we see a need, we fill a need,” says Cheryl.

The CAPS Clinic has become one

of the most comprehensive and established plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive clinics in the country. Located in Deakin, the clinic is a multi-faceted medical facility.

“Dr Taylor o ers a full suite of plastic, aesthetic and reconstructive surgery, o ering breast, body and facial surgery performed in our own private hospital, Sole’vita Surgery,” Cheryl explains.

“In our non-surgical clinic, we o er a comprehensive range of non-surgical skin and body rejuvenation treatments, including non-surgical body sculpting.

“In our 360uv Clinic, we provide a comprehensive and professionally supported skin cancer unit o ering a full range of skin cancer treatments and skin checks.”

The CAPS Clinic is now one of the largest, most comprehensive facilities of its kind in Australia, caring for over 8,000 patients a year and leading a team of 40 sta . Every part of the CAPS Clinic has been specifically designed and purposely built to provide patients with a world class experience, located in one discreet and convenient location.

Dr Taylor and his team have built a reputation for quality and are committed to providing Canberra and the surrounding community with

honest, professional advice and personalised care. Dr Taylor and his professional team dedicate their time to maintaining the highest standard of discreet and personalised care. At the forefront of all work is the comfort, privacy, and safety of the CAPS Clinic’s patients.

“I am so proud of the services CAPS provides to the Canberra community and the amazing team who serve our patients with passion and commitment. 25 years has been a long time, but I can’t see us slowing down any time soon. I may not have another 25 years in me, but I am sure CAPS will continue to be dedicated to excellence for our patients long after I leave,” says Cheryl.

In the 25 years since 1998, CAPS Clinic has grown from a team of two to 40 sta today, caring for over 8,000 patients a year.

Emface

Less wrinkles, more lift – needle free!

Exclusive to the CAPS Non-surgical clinic, Emface reduces wrinkles, tightens sagging skin, and restores definition to the face with no filler, no surgery, no invasive threads, and no downtime.

This is a revolution for the face, targeting skin, connective tissue and muscle and reversing the signs of ageing. Emface is the first and only technology that simultaneously uses synchronised radiofrequency and HIFES energies to treat skin and muscle in a single 20-minute treatment to tighten the skin and strengthen the muscles of the face.

Results that you can expect are a lifting to the cheek area and the jawline as well as a reduction of fine lines on the forehead with overall improved texture and structural appearance. These results can be seen 12 weeks after your final treatment.

We recommend four treatments one week apart, with maintenance being six monthly treatments thereafter. Price: $800 per treatment.

Emsculpt Neo

Less fat, more muscle – a breakthrough in body sculpting 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.

While the former Emsculpt technology has been around for several years, the new and revised Emsculpt NEO embarks on a new era for body sculpting and is exclusive to the CAPS Clinic in Canberra.

The former EmSculpt technology uses HIFEM+ technology to build muscle, whereas EmSculpt NEO combines HIFEM+ technology with radiofrequency to simultaneously

eliminate fat while building/toning muscle. Due to Emsculpt NEO being a combination of radiofrequency and HIFEM+ technology, the muscles are heated before being contracted. This helps to prepare the muscle for treatment but also assists with recovery post treatment. The di erent cycle patterns programmed into the machine ensures lactic acid is drained away from the treatment site.

Results can be seen straight after a treatment, however positive results are usually noticeable two to four weeks after the last treatment and continue to improve for several weeks following.

We recommend four treatments one week apart, with some people requiring further treatments. Price: $550 per treatment.

Aspect Platinum

Earlier this year, Aspect Skincare launched a new product range, Aspect Platinum. The CAPS Clinic was selected as the only clinic in Canberra to stock this new cosmeceutical skincare range.

Aspect Platinum is a range of exceptional skincare products that utilise cutting-edge technology and scientifically proven ingredients to improve your skin’s appearance while restoring and protecting it.

These products work intensively, penetrating multiple layers of the skin with superior ingredients sourced from advanced pharmaceutical and biotechnical companies worldwide. The formulations are free from added fragrances to ensure the active ingredients can deliver maximum

benefits to your skin.

What makes it even more impressive is the advanced technology behind it. Industry-leading chemists have discovered plant-derived enzymes that mimic the body’s natural repair response to photodamage. These enzymes target the e ects of ageing both inside and outside the skin, making them incredibly e ective. The result is a healthier, more youthful-looking complexion that’s supported from within.

Your skin will be in the hands of experts, helping you to achieve the results you want

To celebrate the CAPS Clinic’s 25-year anniversary, we are o ering all new patients a complimentary skin analysis. During your one-hour consultation, our Dermal Technician will discuss your skin concerns, examine and assess the condition of your skin, and develop a personalised treatment plan to meet your specific concerns, lifestyle and budget. You will then be able to access our clinical grade active skincare products, non-surgical skin rejuvenation treatments and skin reviews.

Book your complimentary skin analysis today by calling (02) 6282 1155 or visit: www.capsclinic.com.au/mygenesis/ contact-us/

Emsculpt Neo combines HIFEM+ technology with radio frequency to treat fat and build muscle.

Aspect Platinum is a range of exceptional skincare products which utilises plant-derived enzymes that mimic the body’s natural repair response to photodamage.

Emface technology is exclusively available in Canberra at the CAPS non-surgical clinic.

Youth crime – portent of things to come?

Criminals aged as young as 11 and 12 in Queensland and NSW are being exploited by organised adult criminal gangs to steal cars and break into homes, and then deliver the stolen goods to their masters, according to recent media reports. Because they are so young, the courts are reluctant to lock them up, even for breaching bail. This does not augur well for the ACT. Here, recent amendments to our criminal laws will see young criminals not even be able to be charged with a criminal offence because they are not 14. Already, if they are 11, they can’t be charged, unlike in NSW and Queensland.

Troubled young people will only be encouraged by a near total lack of deterrence. Why on earth would you not commit crimes if you have no moral compass and if you know you can’t be charged? Why on earth wouldn’t nasty criminal adult gangs exploit vulnerable young desperadoes and encourage them to break into other people’s homes, steal the family car/s (and whatever else happens to be lying around), and then sell those cars to

well-organised criminal gangs for a pittance?

It’s a no-brainer. It’s already happening in Sydney, and NSW police are actually still able to charge 11- and 12-year-olds; it’s just that they have weak bail laws and courts that are far from robust.

When you combine this with the decriminalisation of possession of all illicit drugs, and hard decriminalised drugs soon to become readily available, then little wonder ACT police are bracing themselves for a big increase in serious crime. This on top of the fact that our hard-pressed men and women in blue are the most understaffed police force in the country.

Canberra will become a beacon for organised crime, and innocent Canberrans will suffer. Some innocent victims and indeed the young criminals themselves may die or at the very least be seriously hurt by burglaries that go wrong and by 11- and 12-year-olds having accidents in stolen, powerful modern cars.

These crazy experiments were unthinkable

prior to 2012 when the ACT was governed by a compassionate but sensible Labor party led by Jon Stanhope, who would not have any truck with the Greens. Unfortunately, Katy Gallagher got into bed with the Greens, and she and her successor Andrew Barr let the Greens’ crazy, unrealistic attitude to criminal law take over.

That is not to say that our Greens are not personable, well-meaning people. It’s just that their political social engineering ideas fly in the face of human nature and reality.

Of course, we have only ourselves to blame for voting in, election after election, this no doubt well-meaning Green/Labor government. Maybe the government members of the Assembly would think twice about such obviously impractical, crazy laws if there was a provision in the ACT Sentencing Act that all government members had to be responsible and host in their homes one or two juvenile offenders as part of bail conditions or as part of a sentence order. Maybe then reality would soon sink in.

Drug decriminalisation a mistake

The ACT Greens’ push to decriminalise drugs is a big mistake. Seventy per cent of the population of the AMC are drug users. They are not there FOR drug use but BECAUSE of drug use. Court reporting shows how often an offender was “high”. The ACT removed the defence (paraphrasing) of being too drunk (alcohol) to know what you were doing. But a person can glibly say, “I cannot remember. I was high!”

The fix is simple. Actually, two things are needed: if someone has drugs in their system when they commit an offence, there should be a higher, mandatory, penalty imposed in excess of the other offence(s); and all staff at the AMC and the offender should be tested for drugs, at least monthly.

- Ex-Inmate (name and address supplied)

Period of grace for Qantas

I read with interest the call by the Federal Member for Kennedy Bob Katter MP to return ownership of Qantas to the nation (CW online 8 September). The idea has merit given the outrageous prices of Qantas regional flights,

frequent flight cancellations, profit obsession and offshoring of jobs impacting Australians.

Before going down that path. however, the Flying Kangaroo should be given a six-month period of grace to allow the airline to get back to basics, offer reasonable fares for all Australians and put service and reliability every day. If that can’t be done, hand the keys of the aircraft back to the public and get off the runway.

- Adrian Dolahenty, Watson

Notions of beauty

Rather than being ‘shameful’, as John Lawrence (CW 24 August 2023, p18) and Daphne Harding (CW 31 August 2023, p22) believe, Northboume Avenue looks Australian. Native plants, grasses and trees. Rich biodiversity and habitat is vital in an ecological crisis - it looks different to what we have been conditioned. Environmentally, it makes more sense; perhaps we need to adjust our view of exotic trees and mown grass as beautiful or cared for.

- Amy Blain, Ainslie

Another’s gain is not our loss

As a sexagenarian woman of a similar

demographic to Brett Gray (CW 31 August 2023, p22), may I thank him for his wise and courteous letter. I agree with him that we need to get away from thinking that someone else’s gain is necessarily our loss. I am also mystified as to why the “No” case is encouraging ignorance, as surely the typical response to not knowing something is to go and find out.

The Uluru Statement is a single A4 page. If you are worried about that being too brief, you may be reassured by the whole Australian constitution, including explanatory notes, at 90 A6 pages is only 22.5 times as long. We Australians seem to have muddled along OK with that for the last 122 years.

How will the nation be better if you vote “No”?

I am not expecting miracles from voting “Yes”, but even small improvements build up over time.

As a recent cancer survivor, I can certainly attest to the support provided by other people caring about a person’s wellbeing.

- Mary Coombe, Queanbeyan

‘Everyone is equal’

Re Brett Gray’s letter ‘The Referendum is not (continued page 12)

to the editor

(from page 10)

extreme’ (CW 31 August 2023, p22). The reason people are saying that having the Voice will give opportunities to Indigenous and take them away from the rest of the population, is this belief is entirely justified. Democracy is that everyone is equal. A number of the Voice committee have stated that they want reparations, rent, a percentage of GDP, land rights, self-determination and power to tell the government what to do. It is all in black and white in pages 2-26 of the Uluru Statement from the Heart as well as what has been said verbally by those same members. The rest of Australians do not have this, so why would the Indigenous? There are many Indigenous Australians doing very well career-wise. Politicians, lawyers, doctors, dentists, sports people, TV and radio personalities and academics. I also have to add, 80 per cent of the Indigenous Australians living

in the metropolitan areas are no more disadvantaged than the rest of Australians. I do concede the other 20 per cent living in rural Australia do need help, but that is why the government has been giving the 3,000 Indigenous corporations and the NIAA $34 billion a year for decades. They already have a Voice.

- Vi Evans, Macgregor

Retain our national flag

For good or for bad, national flags should ideally be representative of their country, i.e., akin to a historical document. Our flag, which has been with us since 1901, does precisely that and should not be changed just because it may be offensive to some, or does not cater to demographic changes. We must not let the ever pervasive “political correctness” and its followers have their way and change the flag, just for the sake of change and nothing else.

- Mario Stivala, Belconnen

Want to share your opinion?

RZ1 changes in ACT news

The ACT Government has released nine updated district strategies, the new Territory Plan, and new design guides. They will come into effect in November. This follows the passage of the Planning Bill 2022 in June.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the new planning system would increase housing supply where people want to live, in the range of tens of thousands over many decades.

Under the new Territory Plan, Residential Zone 1 (RZ1) blocks greater than 800 square metres will be able to have a secondary dwelling up to 120 square metres in size – larger than

most two-bedroom and many three-bedroom apartments in high density areas, Mr Barr said. This will increase both housing and renting stock, Mick Gentleman, ACT Minister for Planning and Land Management, said.

The government expects that 70 per cent of new establishments and dwellings will occur in the current footprint, and only 30 per cent in greenfield areas.

More information about the new planning system and the finalised documents is available on the ACT Government’s planning website.

The

Join

Wednesday 27th September 2023

5:15pm arrival for 5:30pm presentation, followed by a village tour

The Henry Clubhouse, 94 Fullagar Cresent, Higgins ACT

Drinks and nibbles provided

Contact us to RSVP or to find out more.

Scheduled for completion 2024

Spacious 2 or 3 bedroom residences

All 2 bathroom

From $695,000

Learn

Scan the QR code to register your attendance online

Boutique Retirement Living

AFP Pipes and Drums beat path to Edinburgh Military Tattoo

The AFP Pipes and Drums band has an eclectic mix of professions – not all sworn officers as you may assume – and the best part is that the Pipe Major is a Police Inspector and the Pipe Sergeant is a criminal defender.

Criminal lawyer Andrew Fraser, who used to play at the Burns Club, heard about the AFP’s shortage of pipers and asked if he could join their band.

“They asked, ‘What do you do?’. I said ‘a criminal defender, I hope that’s not a problem’ and we had a bit of a yarn,” Fraser says. “We pretty quickly came to the conclusion it’s part of the great system and the system generally gets it right. The two basic rules are to play pipes and have fun. That’s what we do.”

AFP Detective Inspector Stephen Ladd says they still have a bit of a laugh about it, but never discuss the cases they’re involved in. “I can assure you we don’t divulge any secrets to each other.”

“And I don’t cross examine him,” Fraser pipes in. Jokes aside, the AFP Pipes and Drums is a special band of musicians, having recently received

Dr Damien Bezzina

Skin Doctor

Expertise in the management of Skin Cancer, all lumps & bumps ranging from cysts, lipomas to anal skin tags and most things in between.

SERVICES:

• SKIN CHECKS (full body & spot checks)

• SKIN CANCER MANAGEMENT

an invitation to attend the prestigious Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2024.

You can’t ask to attend this time-honoured ceremony; you must be invited. It’s so sacred that the band doesn’t even know what music they’ll be playing until a month out. It’s top secret.

“We’re not allowed to divulge the information and we sign an agreement,” Detective Inspector Ladd says. “We can practise beforehand, but we’re not allowed to perform it before we get to the Tattoo because they want to keep the sanctity of the Tattoo.”

The Tattoo is gruelling – a performance every night over three weeks and two shows on a Saturday. A massive 8,500 spectators cram Edinburgh Castle each night, a total of 220,000 people throughout the month, and about 300 million watch it on TV.

“I never imagined when I was playing at the local RSL club that I’d be on the esplanade at Edinburgh Castle - something you watched on black and white

TV on New Year’s Eve,” Fraser says. “For ceremonial, there’s no bigger show – I reckon it’s the greatest show on Earth.”

With about 300 players on the esplanade, Inspector Ladd says the sound is magnificent, “you can still hear it hours later, your ears are still ringing”.

Despite the pomp and ceremony that usually accompanies bagpipes, it’s hard to attract new players.

“The trick with pipe bands is trying to get the young people involved,” Detective Inspector Ladd says. “Trying to keep the young people coming in, it’s hard to recruit. Picking up bagpipes isn’t exactly a bass guitar.”

- Georgia Curry

(surgical inc skin aps & grafts & non-surgical)

• LUMPS & BUMPS MANAGEMENT

(cysts, lipomas, skin tags, anal skin tags, any other lesions)

• DERMATOLOGY (RASHES, HAIR LOSS, ALOPECIA ETC)

• BOTULINUM TOXIN FOR TEETH GRINDING/ CLENCHING/JAW PAIN

Appointments can be made via:

Ochre BRUCE 02 6180 8500 or HotDoc online

QUEANBEYAN GP SUPERCLINIC 02 6297 3311 or www.qgpsc.com.au/appointments/

Read the extended story online.

Bagpipers Andrew Fraser, a criminal lawyer, and AFP Detective Inspector Stephen Ladd are off to the Edinburgh Military Tattoo 2024.

Photo Georgia Curry

Stay active, be social

Kickstart family connection with GKR Karate

In a post-pandemic world where many people continue to be less active, one sport has found a whole new popularity. In the past year alone, the number of Canberra region locals training at Go Kan Ryu (GKR) Karate has doubled as people of all ages and backgrounds are reaping the benefits.

“We joined just after Covid, I think we’d stopped doing all the sports and we noticed a massive difference in the boys – their fitness and their energy levels really lifted after starting, which then helps their mood,” says Sarah Oates.

Both Oates boys expressed an interest in martial arts when younger son Jono began asking his parents, Rick and Sarah to try it out. Waiting until Jono and Zac were a bit older and wanting to ensure they chose the right martial

art for them, the family started looking.

“I wanted to make sure that it was going to be something that was safe and a good environment. Where they were learning skills, but they were also learning not to use them for bad but understand the skills and know how to use them appropriately,” says Sarah.

Picking the right one in GKR Karate, Jono enrolled, then just two short weeks later the rest of the family signed up. Watching a lesson and witnessing the fun, non-judgemental and encouraging training style, they thought it could be something the whole family would enjoy.

“When we turned up, there were people as young as six but then there’s people who are 80-plus there as well,” says Rick.

“Everybody was super friendly and welcoming when we came along. It just seemed like a really good place to do it as a family.”

“I got the family involved because I was really enjoying it and then my dad started

remembering some of [the moves]. I simply said, ‘you should join’,” smiles Jono.

Now, a year later, they have all progressed in belt colour, competed in competitions and Sarah is undertaking training to

GKR Karate offers classes for all ages, backgrounds and levels of fitness. Photos: Kerrie Brewer.

assist with lessons. Classes are catered towards skill level with everyone invited to join.

Offering more than just physical training, increasing confidence, discipline, respect and self-control are core aspects of the GKR

philosophy. Their non-contact karate style provides a full-body workout, improving coordination and strength.

School-aged students are encouraged to better their focus on their studies and behaviour while at school and support antibullying sentiments. The Oates say the sport has improved their children’s fitness, discipline, focus and confidence, and they want to continue progressing to achieve their black belts.

“Being thrown in the deep end with the sparring competition, all of us were feeling nervous,” says Rick. “Coming out of the other side of that we can see they are carrying themselves a little taller and proud of their efforts. It gives them that going into day-to-day life as well.”

Additionally, the benefit for the family unit has been undeniable. They are spending more quality

time together when before they were often doing sports separately or with just one parent. When not training, they find themselves talking about karate, their upcoming comps and encouraging each other.

“We’re not just sitting on the edges, spectating,” says Rick. “We’re doing it together and having that time together… It’s been quite good for our family to be supporting each other through those experiences and challenges.”

The first GKR Karate dojo was established in Adelaide in 1984 and since then has grown in popularity. Today, GKR has more than 1,000 locations across three countries. In the Canberra region, GKR is the most popular martial arts club, training more than 1,000 students at various locations each week.

People from all walks of life sign up either solo, with a friend or, like the Oates, as a whole family.

The welcoming nature of the sport ensures that if you do sign up alone, it won’t be long before you find some friends in the club.

No longer seen as a sport for males only, around half the students at GKR Karate are female, many coming for selfdefence or fitness in a welcoming environment.

“As a woman, it’s important to understand how to use your body and how to defend yourself,” says Sarah. “I think being strong into older age is something that I really want. I want to know that my body is capable and strong.”

From out-of-shape to super fit, GKR Karate caters for all fitness levels as students train at their own pace.

“I think it’s worth having a shot,” smiles Sarah.

Visit gkrkarate.com for more information.

- Jessica Cordwell

The Oates family – Zac, Rick, Jono and Sarah – have connected over a newfound passion for GKR Karate.

competition

WIN! Fulminare! concert tickets

The Australian Wind Symphony makes a high-voltage return to Llewellyn Hall this spring with Fulminare! on Saturday 23 September at 2.30pm. This matinee performance features Yasuhide Ito’s stunning symphonic poem ‘Gloriosa’, and oboe soloist

Gina Pontoni performing ‘Hymn for Colin’ by Martyn Hancock. For tickets and more information, visit australianwindsymphony.com.au

CW has 3 x double passes to Fulminare! on 23 September 2.30pm 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 Thursday 21 September 2023 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.

Circus helps children with developmental delays

A new initiative from Warehouse Circus aims to empower early development in children who have been born premature and may be experiencing developmental delays. Already using the craft to help Canberrans manage complex disabilities, improve mental health, and increase social interaction, Warehouse Circus saw another gap in the market.

“On average, about eight per cent of babies in Canberra are born pre-term and from data we’ve found, are likely to experience some form of developmental delay as a result,” says Tom Davis, artistic director.

Believing a circus skills class that focuses on improving coordination, strength and balance could assist in the development challenges faced by this group, the organisation set about learning how to help.

“These challenges can stem from various factors, including motor impairments, prolonged hospitalisation during infancy and toddlerhood,” Mr Davis says.

Research conducted at the University of Melbourne explored whether circus skills could be used as an early invention tool in premature toddlers. Using circus as physical therapy, researchers wanted to see if the children could catch up to their peers with their

developmental milestones, and found positive results.

Involved in the research was Warehouse’s head of social circus, Isaac Fletcher. Due to his contributions, members of the Warehouse team were invited to undertake the new learning modules that had been developed.

“How inclusion works, what they might experience with developmental delays, looking at class structure and how we can support them,” Mr Davis says.

With Healthy Canberra Grants funding to help raise awareness of the project, Warehouse has incorporated the research findings into their new Tiny Tribes classes. These classes see parents and children aged up to five years learn a range of physical skills.

“We are starting things o by folding these new learning modules that our sta have completed training in into existing classes to foster inclusive spaces,” he says.

At this stage, children with and without delays are welcome to join. Depending on the level of interest, Warehouse hopes to host classes catered to those with developmental delays.

To find out more about Tiny Tribes, visit warehousecircus.org.au

- Jessica Cordwell

Warehouse Circus has developed its Tiny Tribes program to help with any developmental delays in children born prematurely.

HAVE YOU HEARD?

GIVIT donation of the week: Men’s joggers

GIVIT is working with an organisation in Canberra that provides various support services for people who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. They are requesting the donation of men’s running shoes for their upcoming event, which raises awareness about the issues and experiences of the homeless and the actions that need to be taken. Generous Canberrans can donate men’s joggers or fund the purchase of new ones with 100% of money received by GIVIT used to purchase joggers. To donate or fund, visit givit.org.au/whats-needed, search Category: ‘men’s joggers’; Location: ‘ACT’.

Fun, friendship at Little Athletics

Do your kids like to run, jump, roll or throw? Are you looking for a local, family friendly sport? Registrations are open for fun, fitness and friendship at Little Athletics. With 17 centres across ACT and region, there is a centre near you. Coaches and age managers are available. Register now at athleticsintheact.com.au or call 6247 1296.

Kippax Marketplace

Kippax Uniting Church, opposite Woolworths carpark, will hold its Monthly Indoor Marketplace on Saturday 16 September 9am-1pm. As well as our individual stallholders, our morning teas and barbecue, our theme for pre-loved goods this month is clothing, accessories, and manchester. Come and enjoy our hospitality, and our low prices! Donations from the community are welcome on Friday 15 September.

ACT RVRA at COTA Seniors Expo

The ACT Retirement Village Residents Association has a booth at the COTA Seniors Expo at Exhibition Park on Thursday 21 September 9.30am-3pm. We would love to see you there to tell you about what we are doing on your behalf, and to hear about your experiences at your retirement village. We will also have some useful information for you to take away. If you are a member of the association by 22 November (membership forms available at booth), you will go into a draw to win some great prizes to be drawn at our AGM on 22 November. All retirement village residents who visit our booth will also be entered into a separate draw to win a $100 voucher. More info: actrvra.org.au

Spring Native Plant Sale at ANBG

The Growing Friends will hold their Spring Native Plant Sale on Saturday 16 September 8.30-10am in the car park between the Banksia Centre and the Crosbie Morrison Building. All plants for sale are propagated by the Growing Friends from cuttings or seeds sourced from the Australian National Botanic Gardens with the support of ANBG staff. Most of the plants for sale cost $6; some larger plants cost $10. Proceeds from sales go to support the Gardens via the Friends of the ANBG. For a full list of plants available for sale, visit the Friends of the ANBG website.

International Day of Peace

The United Nations International Day of Peace Ceremony is fast approaching with the ceremony set for 21 September from 11am at the Canberra Rotary Peace Bell, Flynn Drive, Yarralumla. Key speakers are: Japanese Ambassador HE Suzuki Kazuhiro, Rotary District Governor Andrea Grosvenor, Member for Bean David Smith, and Professor Tom Calma. This year marks the 75th Anniversary of the UN Declaration of Human Rights.

VIEW Club

Woden: Our next meeting is on Tuesday 26 September 11.30am at the Southern Cross Club Club, Woden. Cost: $34 for two-course lunch. We will be celebrating our club’s birthday with a Coronation theme. Entertainment by Bryan Butler. RSVP to Liz on 0437 686 459 by 19 September.

Gungahlin Day: Our next meeting is on Wednesday 27 September 11.45am at the Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club, Nicholls. Cost: $35 for a twocourse lunch. Guest speaker: Jenny from Story Dogs. RSVP to Suzanne on 0413 550 894 by 9pm 24 September.

Braidwood Lions Antique Fair

The Braidwood Lions Club is running an Antique Fair from Friday 29 September to Sunday 1 October in the historic Braidwood National Theatre. For sale will be antiques, collectables, bric-a-brac, linen, porcelain, jewellery, vintage clothes and furniture.

Charity Stall

Relay for Life Team, the Bold Bandannas, will hold a stall at the Belconnen Fresh Food Markets on Saturday 30 September 8.30am-4.30pm to raise funds for cancer research, prevention and support services. There will be homemade preserves, pickles, chutney, lemon butter, sugar-reduced preserves; a range of hand sewn items; plants and worm juice fertiliser; and copies of a children’s book, Who Took the Egg? More info: call Jan on 6231 0761.

social scene

Karinya House 2023 Gala Dinner, Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden.

MUMS

and bubs

Whether you’re expecting your first baby or your youngest is at school, check out our advertisers in this special feature to discover the services and products available locally for parents, carers and little ones.

CCGC

BABYGYM & GYMPLAY

We offer classes designed for bubs 6 months - 3.5years

Brain Development

Body Awareness

Social Interactions

Fine Motor Skills

Physical literacy

BabyGym and GymPlay classes for babies and toddlers!

Come join us for our BabyGym and GymPlay classes at Canberra City Gymnastics Club. We have classes specifically catered to little ones aged six months to 3.5 years. Our enthusiastic coaches are always excited to meet new members and introduce your little ones to the many benefi ts of starting gymnastics at an early age. We o er a trial class for all new members so be sure to contact our o ce today!

85 Chandler St, Belconnen

196 Mouat St, Lyneham

T: 02 6251 1131

E: o ce@canberracity.org.au

W: canberracitygymnastics.com.au

mums and bubs expert advice

Lifelong Learners: The Wonders of Early Education Starting swimming lessons

The early years of a child’s life lay the foundation for a lifetime of learning. As you begin this remarkable journey with your little one, early education is critical to preparing your child for the future.

Early education isn’t just about ABCs and 123s; it’s about fostering curiosity, creativity, and a love of exploration. Here’s why it matters:

1. Cognitive development: Early education stimulates brain development, enhancing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and language proficiency.

2. Social skills: Interacting with peers, building relationships, and developing empathy all set the stage for healthy social interactions in the future.

3. Confidence and independence: Early education nurtures self-esteem and independence, empowering children to tackle challenges with confidence.

4. Lifelong learning: A love for learning early on ensures your child remains curious and adaptable throughout life.

Wonderschool is committed to providing a nurturing, engaging, and stimulating environment where your child can thrive. Together, we can inspire perpetual curiosity, setting your child on a path to success.

The age your child starts can lead to di erent experiences. Starting before age one is a great way to create very natural a nity with the water. Parents will also be in the water during baby levels, which most really enjoy. Starting around age three will see them dive straight into swimming solo, which can cause some added nerves for children at first, but is still a suitable age to build a confident swimmer over time. Starting closer to school age can sometimes be challenging, as children are more concious and aware of the situation. Although there is no “wrong age” to get started, “the younger, the better” is true in most cases.

There are purpose-built, learn to swim facilities which provide a great experience. Many of these are fully indoor, with private amenities catering perfectly for young families. Indoor facilities also provide year-round swimming which is great for ensuring the comfort of young swimmers.

Baby play or a free trial session can be great ways to test the readiness of you and your child before booking into lessons. Book online or contact a local swim school.

Expert advice

by Tracey Anderson Askew

I remember getting some guidance that transformed my experience of the craziness of parenthood.

To see our children as our greatest teachers, and parenting as a spiritual practice. This seemed to bring on a much richer and more fulfilling meaning to the reality a house that looked like a bomb had hit it – and the fighting and arguing that would break out at the most socially embarrassing times. It led me to play with the idea of parenting as a creative act. How can I respond di erently?

Pause and ask yourself some powerful questions in the middle of the hard di cult situations that can preserve your sanity and shift your mindset.

What is funny about this situation?

What can I learn from this situation?

What is this situation/ moment inviting me to be, do, think, feel?

These questions in the moment are far more powerful than:

Why now? Why won’t you go to sleep? Why won’t you listen to me?

Have a play with power questions and watch what happens.

Stay open and creative, Tracey

2/54 McCaughey St, Turner ACT 2612

T: 02 5114 3322

E: enquire@wonderschool.com.au

W: wonderschool.com.au

T: 1300 34 34 68

E: calwell@aquaticachievers.com.au

W: aquaticachievers.com.au/aquatic-achieverscalwell/

M: 0414 267 791

E: hello@transformparenting.com.au

W: transformparenting.com.au

Carers Support Group Program for Mothers of Neurodiverse Children

Are you a mother of a neurodivergent child, feeling overwhelmed and fatigued? Are you looking for a supportive space for yourself? Would you like to meet with other parents who understand your experiences?

Together OT Allied Health Services invites you to join our Carers Support Group, designed to support you through the unique journey of nurturing a neurodivergent child. What a group looks like:

• Unleash the power of peer support. Get connected, share experiences and brainstorm with other mothers in similar situations.

Celebrate your child’s uniqueness while building community in a

comfortable, non-judgmental atmosphere.

• Engage in facilitated discussions that focus on strategies and solutions particular to caring for neurodivergent children and other family members.

• Take part in specially crafted session on topics such as self-care techniques, stress management, resilience building, discover how to address your self-regulation requirements, and lots more, designed to support your everyday carer role. While the Occupational Therapists have ideas, these sessions are for the carers. Exact topics and speakers will be determined by requests and needs identified by

Your Partner in Parenthood

Being a mother is hard work, being a mum to neurodivergent children can be even harder. Our new mothers’ group ‘Carer Support Group of Mothers with Neurodiverse Children’ is designed to:

• Build a support network for mothers.

• Share strategies.

• Help mothers to put on their own oxygen mask first.

At The SPOT Sensory Shop, we strive to build a safe and supportive community that allows mothers to connect with others who understand the challenges and joys of neurodiversity.

the mothers.

• Share and access resources on funding supports, aids, and services available for neurodivergent children. Plus, we are here to help you navigate the NDIS and related services.

• Aid your nervous system regulation through free goody bag of fidgets for adults.

Important details: 45-minute sessions are held once a week on Tuesdays at 11am, in person or via video conference. Young children are welcome to join, but please note that we won't have extra staff available for child supervision. Cost: $45 per session.

Support ongoing learnings

via an information folder and a complimentary bag of adult-friendly fidget tools from the SPOT (Speech Pathology Occupational Therapy) Sensory Shop.

Potential for NDIS funding to be used for the session depending on your child’s goals.

Due to the nature of the group and to provide the best outcomes for participants, numbers are strictly limited. For more information or to register your interest, please contact us at Together OT Allied Health Services: E: info@together-ot.com.au

T: 02 6189 4850

W: spotsensoryshop.com.au togetheroccupationaltherapy.com.au

Wonderschool Early Learning Centres

Shaping Bright Futures for Canberra’s Children

In the journey of parenthood, firsts are important. First steps, first words, first school. Set your child up for success by sending them to an Early Learning Centre that empowers children to excel. With locations across the ACT, Wonderschool is not just a childcare facility; we are a nurturing environment of inspiration and growth for your little ones.

Empowering Tomorrow’s Changemakers

We don’t just prepare children for the world; we empower them to change it. Our innovative curriculum focuses on holistic development, emphasising character, resilience, and social responsibility. We believe in nurturing the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow, instilling in them the values to shape a bright future.

At Wonderschool Early Learning Centres, every day is an adventure, every lesson is a steppingstone, and every child has the potential to be a worldchanger.

A World of Wonder Awaits

At Wonderschool, our mission is to create connected communities

that empower children to change the world. Our dedicated educators are mentors, guides, and partners in your child’s early education journey. Our purposebuilt facilities are designed to foster wonder, integrity, respect, and empowerment in every child. From the moment you step through our doors, you’ll see the captivating process of learning unfold.

Community, Connection and Confidence

Our commitment to creating connected communities is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that parenting can be both enriching and challenging, and that’s why we’ve created a support network that extends beyond the classroom. Wonderschool parents are a close-knit family, bound by the common goal of nurturing our future leaders. Together, we empower our children to forge meaningful connections with others and shape a brighter, more connected future.

Unlock the wonders of your child’s future at Wonderschool!

2/54 McCaughey St, Turner ACT

T: 02 5114 3322

E: enquire@wonderschool.com.au

Nurturing children with wonder, integrity, respect, and empowerment.

Creating safe and confident swimmers across Canberra

Aquatic Achievers are one of Australia’s most popular learn-toswim providers, with a growing number of locations across Australia. What makes them great though, is the well-developed program structure for children, which helps students reach and celebrate milestones more frequently. This success keeps kids engaged and enjoying their learning experience.

As children begin learning to swim at different ages and for a variety

The swim teachers at Aquatic Achievers really enjoy the rewarding nature of their work, along with the support of a friendly team to keep them bringing out the best in the children they teach. Aquatic Achievers’ swim teachers have all the relevant qualifications, giving parents peace of mind that children are enjoying great quality lessons every time. A surprising number of current team members were once customers, or even students in the program, which

How pregnancy and childbirth set us up for parenting

Does a pregnant woman wake up in the morning, and say to her partner, “Darling, get me a cup of tea – today I am growing an eyeball!”

No, she doesn’t – well, maybe she asks for a cup of tea.

Pregnancy and birth is something wired into our very existence. She doesn’t need to set to work to make a baby, her body just does it.

Pregnancy and birth involve deep inner change, not just of her body, but her ways of being. She avoids stressful situations and people. Her care factor at work declines and her priorities shift. She struggles to think, but she can feel. She’s getting ready to meet the needs of a newborn.

How does pregnancy and birth prepare the mother?

She needs to let go of the baby, from her body and then ultimately from her life, as they forge their

own path.

She needs to surrender to not being able to control birth. She needs to surrender to her child knowing that she can’t control them or their life.

She needs to let go of her fears, of the pain of childbirth and of the pain inherent to parenting.

She needs stamina to get through the labour and stamina to get through their childhood.

She needs resources to find comfort during labour to deal with the intensity. She needs resources to find comfort during the intensity of guiding this one through life.

She needs to ask for help during birth, as she is vulnerable. She needs to ask for help during parenting because it is not a job to be done alone.

She needs to travel into the mystery with this child of what lies ahead. She doesn’t know who this baby is, and what they are going

to deliver into her life, how they will bring great joy and great pain.

She needs to push through what she thinks she can do during childbirth, because she can’t escape. This continues into parenting – we can’t put them back where they came from. She will never escape this child – they are lodged fully in her heart and very existence.

It’s all connected – pregnancy, birth, parenting – one big journey,

demanding you to grow together and walk into the mystery of what lies ahead.

It’s a path well worth taking. For more information on how our classes and community can set you up for parenting, go to transformparenting.com.au/theparenting-village/

M: 0414 267 791

E: hello@transformparenting.com.au

W: transformparenting.com.au

Simple, scrumptious seafood recipes

If you’re looking for new ideas of what to bring to the potluck, seafood pairs perfectly with spring's vibrant vegetables to make colourful culinary delights.

WITH TASTE EDITOR, ANJA DE ROZARIO

Orzo with prawns, tomato and marinated feta

Serves 4

200g feta, broken into 1–2cm pieces

1/2 tsp chilli flakes

4 tsp fennel seeds, toasted and lightly crushed

75ml olive oil

250g orzo

3 garlic cloves, crushed

3 strips of finely shaved orange skin

1 x 400g tin of chopped tomatoes

500ml vegetable stock

400g raw shell-o prawns

30g basil leaves, roughly shredded

Salt and black pepper

In a medium bowl, mix the feta with 1/4 teaspoon of the chilli flakes, 2 teaspoons of the fennel seeds and 1 tablespoon of the oil. Set aside while you cook the orzo.

Chilli fish with tahini

Serves 4

800g halibut (or other firm white fish), either 4 steaks, on the bone, or 4 fillets, skinless and boneless

60ml olive oil

1–2 red chillies, chopped widthways into 2cm long chunks, most of the seeds removed

3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 1 tsp caraway seeds, plus 1/4 tsp to serve 1 dried ancho chilli, trimmed, seeds discarded, torn into 5cm pieces (or 1 tsp sweet smoked paprika)

1kg plum tomatoes, chopped into 1cm dice

2 Tbsp tomato paste

1/2 tsp caster sugar

5g coriander leaves, roughly chopped, to serve

Salt

For the tahini sauce

50g tahini

1 Tbsp lemon juice

Lightly season the fish with just 1∕3 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.

Place a large sauté pan, for which you have a lid, on a medium high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of oil, orzo, 8 teaspoon of salt and a good grind of pepper. Fry for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden-brown, then remove from the pan and set aside.

Return the pan to the same heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil, 1/4 teaspoon of chilli flakes and 2 teaspoons of fennel seeds, the garlic and the orange skin. Fry for 1 minute, until the garlic starts to lightly brown, then add the tomatoes, stock, 200ml of water, 3/4 teaspoon of salt and plenty of pepper.

Cook for 2–3 minutes, or until boiling, then stir in the fried orzo. Cover, then lower the heat to medium low and leave to simmer for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice throughout so the orzo is cooked. Remove the lid and cook for a further 1–2 minutes, until the consistency is like a risotto. Stir in the prawns for 2–3 minutes until they are pink and cooked. Stir in the basil and serve at once, with the marinated feta sprinkled on top.

Put the oil into a large sauté pan, for which you have a lid, and place on a medium high heat. Once hot, add the fresh chillies and fry for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add the garlic, caraway seeds and ancho chilli and continue to fry for 1 minute, until the garlic is starting to turn golden-brown. Add the tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt, then, once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and leave to simmer for 15 minutes, stirring from time to time, until the sauce is thick. Add the fish, cover the pan and continue to cook for 10 minutes.

To make the tahini sauce, mix the tahini and lemon juice with 60ml of water and 1∕8 teaspoon of salt.

When ready to serve, gently lift the fish out of the pan and set aside somewhere warm. If the fish has released a lot of liquid during the cooking and the sauce is runny, increase the heat and let it bubble away quickly until thick. Taste and add salt if needed.

Transfer the fish to a serving dish. Spoon over the sauce, sprinkle over the coriander and serve.

This is an extract from Ottolenghi SIMPLE by Yotam Ottolenghi (published by Ebury Press, RRP $55).

History and theatre meet at Lanyon Homestead

Four plays, six actors, one stunning rural location – stories of our past come to life in Drought & Other Plays by Millicent Armstrong. Set against the backdrop of Lanyon Homestead, Music Theatre Projects presents the production on Sunday 24 September.

Written by WWI nurse, soldier settler farmer and educated woman, Millicent Armstrong, her works transcend drama, thriller and laugh-out-loud comedies. Each piece allows the audience to step back in time and experience what life was like in the wartime era through the eyes of a woman.

“The subject matter is really striking, some of them are quite dark and say a lot about the lifestyle that people would have had on modest farms in regional Australia; the difficulty of that and

dealing with natural disasters,” says project director, Dianna Nixon.

Developed for shearing sheds, historic homesteads and community halls, Ms Nixon says the venues will give the audience a connection to the history of the place and to the story. Hoping to take the production across regional Australia, the technical aspects are minimal, requiring just the custom-made soundtrack.

“There’s no microphones, there’s no fancy lighting, but we’ve got this incredible atmosphere that we create with the soundtrack, which includes some elements of voiceover,” she says.

Managing director of Music Theatre Projects, Ms Nixon first discovered Armstrong’s works in 2016 while looking to buy a property in the Gunning area. Coming across the

playwright’s Wikipedia entry, Ms Nixon was amazed she hadn’t heard of Armstrong before. Instantly connecting with the work, she started on her journey to get the pieces in front of audiences.

“It’s written from the perspective of someone who has really lived a very rich life, who’s lived in remote rural Australia who had known the realities of living on a farm … She honed her storytelling craft while she was a nurse during the First World War in France.”

Caring for injured soldiers,

Armstrong created short plays in English and French to take their minds off their situation, Ms Nixon says. The WWI nurse had a lot of insight into human nature and lots of stories to tell, but running a farm meant she lacked time to write a long-form play.

Full story online.

See Drought & Other Plays by Millicent Armstrong at Lanyon Homestead, Tharwa on Sunday 24 September 4pm; 123tix.com.au

- Jessica Cordwell

Drought & Other Plays by Millicent Armstrong comes to Lanyon Homestead on 24 September.

Explore the organic, ephemeral nature of music, playfully bending sound and colour with the CSO Chamber Ensemble

Take 5 with Holly Trueman, CEO of Screen Canberra

AUSTRALIAN SERIES

PLAY OF LIGHT

6.30pm I 21 September 2023

National Museum of Australia

Lisa Illean Lightsense No. 1

Connor D’Netto Susurrus

Andrew Ford Soave sia il vento (May the winds be gentle)

Kate Moore Fern

Paul Stanhope All Air and Shadows

Nardi Simpson Winangaylaylaya (World premiere, new CSO commission)

To book, scan the QR code, go to cso.org.au or call 02 6262 6772 (weekdays 10am–3pm)

by

Guiding the future of film and TV, Screen Canberra is set to become our region’s very own Truman Show as Dr Holly Trueman steps into the role of CEO on 18 September. CW ’s Jessica Cordwell caught up with Dr Trueman to talk motivation, favourites and the future of Australian screen projects.

Tell us your motivation for taking on this new role. One of my main day-to-day motivators is empowering others to reach their full potential. I am excited to be in the position to leverage my extensive industry knowledge and my background in the not-for-profit sector to support the development of a fresh wave of film and TV projects made from Canberra.

2When did you fall in love with screen projects?

I fell in love with film and TV from my very first job in the screen industry, which was working on the groundbreaking BBC child development series, Child of Our Time. Under the guidance of two exceptional factual storytellers, Tessa Livingston and Dinah Lord, my passion for television was ignited. I was fortunate to learn about the immense power of storytelling on screen from some of the industry’s best.

3 What is your vision for Screen Canberra?

Screen Canberra has evolved as the industry has matured in Canberra over the past 15 years. I aim to develop and implement

strategies that support our creative community, encouraging local talent to stay in Canberra while also attracting new talent to the region. I see opportunities to infuse the innovative spirit of Canberra into the screen industry in unique ways.

4 Why do you think people are so drawn to the medium?

It is so entertaining! There is nothing better than collapsing in front of the screen (at home or the cinema) and being completely absorbed in a new story. TV and cinema allow us to escape our everyday lives, help us relax, make us cry, laugh and feel. These stories help us make sense of our lives.

5

What does the future look like for Australian screen projects?

The industry has had to adapt and change so much in the last few years and will continue to do so in the future. Australian screen projects will likely adapt their storytelling style to appeal both to domestic and international markets.

Answers condensed for publication. Find out more about Screen Canberra; screencanberra.com.au

Dr Holly Trueman steps into the role of CEO at Screen Canberra this month.

Supported

Cultural partner

Book talk

This week, Jeff Popple reviews three enjoyable books ideal for spring reading. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com

Quantum Radio by A. G. Riddle

Head of Zeus, $32.99

Fans of conspiracy thrillers will enjoy this latest release by A. G. Riddle. Quantum Radio is a fast-paced, speculative tale about physics, secret messages, and powerful organisations. When quantum physicist Tyson Hauser discovers a pattern in the data from the Large Hadron Collider that suggests someone, or something, is trying to communicate with us, he finds himself on the run from a mysterious group who will do anything to seize control of the data and what it means for humanity. An enjoyable thriller filled with brisk action, interesting history, credible science, and plenty of surprises. A good fun read.

One Day We Are All Going To Die by Elise

Esther Hearst

HQ, $32.99

Elise Esther Hearst’s One Day We Are All Going To

Die is a frank and engaging debut about 27-year-old Naomi who is trying to make her way through a messy life. Burdened by her family’s expectations, her complex relationship with her Holocaust-survivor grandmother, her job at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, and her tendency to be attracted to the wrong sort of people, Naomi is just trying to be normal. It is not easy, however, especially when it is complicated by a bad affair and falling for a man called Moses. An insightful tale about modern society and finding your own way.

Mole Creek by James Dunbar

Echo, $32.99

James Dunbar’s first venture into serious crime fiction, Mole Creek, is a highly entertaining novel that breathes some new life into the spy thriller. Journalist Xander is sceptical when he is told that his retired cop and Vietnam veteran grandfather Pete McAuslan has taken his life in rural Tasmania, especially when he finds that his grandfather’s laptop is missing. Pete had gone to the cabin to write his memoirs and reveal some old secrets, but it seems that someone has other ideas. Moving seamlessly between 1969 and the present day, Mole Creek is a well written and thoroughly engrossing crime novel.

Canberra Weekly competition winners

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

Eva Scott HQ Fiction: L Bermingham, Richardson; A Regan, Ngunnawal; B Kendrick, Ngunnawal; D Larter, Nicholls.

Retribution film passes: C Mikulic, Bonython; J Bown, Wanniassa; D Mark, Karabar; C Khatri, Canberra; J Uildriks, Phillip; E Berra, Karabar; D Di Mezza, Mawson; N Such, Griffith; K Mewett, Lyons; J Lamont, Wanniassa.

Your local, independent bookshop in Kingston

Canberra’s newest independent bookshopstocking a large range of quality new books for readers of all ages.

Written by Emma Wood

what’s on

KATE CEBERANO

The iconic Australian singer teams up with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra to perform some of her personal favourites in My Life Is A Symphony.

Canberra Theatre Centre, Friday 15 September 7.30pm; canberratheatrecentre.com.au

MOON FESTIVAL

This free community event invites Canberrans to celebrate harvest and the bright and roundest moon in this Chinese cultural festival, full of singing, dancing, martial arts, traditional Chinese arts, and food and drink including moon cake.

Gungahlin College, Saturday 16 September 10.30am-3pm.

FLORIADE

Celebrate Australia’s favourite spring festival of beautiful blooms, engaging entertainment, workshops, markets, food and wine, art displays, events and more.

Commonwealth Park, 16 September-15 October; floriadeaustralia.com

REPAIR CAFÉ

Extend the lifespan of your goods with the help of experienced volunteers at Hawker Community Repair Café or find a new treasure in the Local Made market stalls.

Hawker International Softball Centre, Sunday 17 September 10am1pm; hawkermensshed.com.au

Find more listings at canberraweekly.com.au

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

ST. ALI ITALIAN FILM FESTIVAL

Choose from a stunning selection of the best in contemporary Italian cinema, featuring award-winning dramas, comedies and documentaries.

Palace Electric, Acton, 20 September-18 October; italianfilmfestival.com.au

ACT SENIORS EXPO 2023

COTA’s much-anticipated spring ACT Seniors Expo returns with an exceptional showcase of services, products and activities tailored to enhance the lives of seniors in the Canberra region.

Budawang Pavilion, Exhibition Park, Thursday 21 September 9.30am3.30pm; cotaact.org.au

FULMINARE!

The Australian Wind Symphony is making a highvoltage return to Llewellyn Hall this spring. This matinee performance features Yasuhide Ito’s stunning symphonic poem Gloriosa and oboe soloist Gina Pontoni performing Hymn for Colin by Martyn Hancock.

Llewellyn Hall, ANU, Saturday 23 September 2.30pm; australianwindsymphony.com.au

FRIDAY NIGHT DRINKS

Start your weekend right with tunes, mates and a few drinks in the OPH House of Rep’s courtyard as this beloved Canberra event returns.

Old Parliament House, Friday 22 September 5pm; moadoph.gov.au

Now showing

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (PG)

In New York City, TCRI executive Cynthia Utrom (Maya Rudolph), sends a squadron to hunt down rogue scientist Baxter Stockman, who has created a mutagen to form his own mutant animal family. In the scu e, the mutagen falls into the sewers. Fifteen years later, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles meet April O’Neil on the trail of a gang of robbers headed by Superfly (Ice Cube).

Bursting onto the independent comic book scene back in 1984, the TMNT have not slowed down since. Constantly evolving by being reinvented, reimagined, and rebooted throughout the decades, this latest outing is more than inspired by the recent uber success of the Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse franchise. The team that made Superbad highlights the Turtles’ teenage elements while discarding heavier baggage such

as generational grudges, stoicism and discipline. These turtles are beguiled by the idea of being popular teenagers, motivated to publicly capture the crooks behind the latest series of heists and to go viral to join the city above them. The robbers under Superfly are a kind of brethren to the Turtles, less interested in breaking the law than in gaining what the Turtles already have: a family.

Drawn with thick, chalky black lines, the design mimics teenagers’ gra tied schoolbooks like the closing credits of Spider-Man: Homecoming series. Nine Inch Nails’ Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross deliver an interesting but inconsistent industrial and nostalgic synth score amongst a smooth, kinetic, and imaginative animation style.

Verdict: A new, fresh iteration that may alienate older fans. 3 stars.

- Luke McWilliams themovieclub.net

Viewed at Dendy Cinemas.

The Australian Wind Symphony presents Fulminare! at Llewellyn Hall on 23 September.

WITH KAREN AND GILLIAN FROM COLLEEN’S LINGERIE AND SWIMWEAR

Uplifting advice: 12B or not 12B, that is the question

“But I’ve always been a 12B!” Probably not. Somehow this mythical size has become the go-to for women everywhere. We honestly can’t tell you the last time we fitted someone who actually was a 12B!

Women are gloriously diverse in their shapes and sizes and still, 80 per cent of us wear the wrong size bra. Many of us, facing overwhelm in a store full to overflowing with more bras than one woman could ever wear in a lifetime and no-one to help guide us in our choice, simply stick to the same style in the same size and suffer silently through the annoying discomforts of an ill-fitting bra.

It doesn’t have to be this way! A good fitter will do everything possible to minimise your discomfort, respect your personal space and vulnerabilities, and listen to your needs.

In a fitting room at Colleen’s, you are in a safe, respectful, honest and authentic space. Take a deep breath, it’ll go a little something like this:

• First, we’ll talk to you. We’ll listen to you. We’ll hear what issues you’re having with your current

bras and together, come up with some options for you to try.

• Ditch the tape measure. It’s unlikely we’ll need to measure you. A quick glance and a few questions tend to be all we need to select an appropriate size to begin with before we even make it to the fitting room.

• Once in the fitting room, it’s entirely up to you whether we stay and help you into the bra, or if you’d prefer for us to pop out as you change.

• More talking! We’ll ask lots of questions to make sure you’re comfortable and happy in your bra. We’ll make adjustments if necessary and explain the ‘why’ of a good fitting bra and how to properly care for it.

• Once the size is sorted, the fun can begin and you can try on as many bras as you like! It’s normally at this point that the conversations turn to life, kids and other hilarities, so don’t be at all surprised if a few belly laughs are thrown in for good measure.

Simple as that! Now is the time. If you’re constantly pulling at your bra to stop it riding up your back, if your straps are determined to spend the day around your elbows, if your breasts are making a Houdini-worthy escape attempt from under the wire, or you subscribe to the mantra ‘home is where the bra is not!’, then it’s time for a fitting. We promise you, it’s the breast equivalent of trading stilettos for slippers!

We would encourage every woman who hasn’t had a bra fitting or has had a disheartening experience trying to find the right bra, to visit at Colleen’s. Who knows, it might change your life!

Mindful eating: The missing piece in your gut health puzzle

Unlocking the power of mindfulness for a happier digestive system

Have you heard of mindful eating? Over the past 12 years, I’ve helped thousands of individuals to recover from digestive issues such as IBS and food intolerance. Mindful eating has been a powerful tool to transform these patients (and myself) from bloated and anxious to bloat-free and happy.

Many people feel overwhelmed or confused at the prospect of mindful eating as it tends to be overcomplicated by experts. However, when followed correctly, mindful eating is the simplest and most effective tool for improving gut health and recovering from food intolerance.

The gut-brain connection

There is a two-way communication pathway from your brain to your digestive system which plays a crucial role in your overall wellbeing. Research suggests that stress and anxiety can impact

digestion and gut health leading to food sensitivity, nutritional deficiencies and uncomfortable symptoms.

How mindful eating benefits gut health

1. Enhanced nutrient absorption: Eating slowly and mindfully helps your body recognise food types. Flavours and textures signal potential nutrients. This improves digestion and increases nutrient absorption.

2. Reduced bloating and indigestion: Slowing down and chewing your food thoroughly helps break down the food to make digestion easier. This helps reduce gas and fermentation of foods, reducing symptoms of

mindful eating can help improve overall wellbeing and help combat stress and anxiety.

4. Better food choices: By practising mindful eating, you become more attuned to the foods which suit your body (and those that do not) allowing you to know how to personalise your diet.

The 4 simple rules of mindful eating

1. Create a peaceful eating environment: Find a quiet and comfortable space away from your phone, TV and computer. Enjoy your meals without distractions.

2. Engage your senses: Try to enjoy the colours, smells and textures of your food. Engage your senses and enjoy each bite.

3. Chew thoroughly: Chew your food slowly and thoroughly. This aids digestion and allows you to fully experience the flavours.

4. Listen to your body: Tune in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you’re

Trends to watch

WITH CELEBRITY INTERIOR STYLIST MEGAN MORTON

Drawing on the global movements that have affected how we view our homes – from lockdown all the way to Barbie dreamhouse mania

– interior stylist Megan Morton has read the public’s temperature and drilled it down to four key spring/ summer trends to look out for.

Bye-bye, Open Plan

2023 is seeing the reinstating of physical barriers in our personal spaces. Aussies love an open concept home. However, according to Megan, we are seeing a shift towards a more European mentality, where clever planning creates multi-functioning rooms that are both inviting and intimate.

“Open plan loves modern materials that don’t often offer any noise sensitivity,” says Megan. Note that adding a degree of separation and privacy doesn’t have to mean putting up walls. “With this trend, look to add soft furnishings and a plush curtain wherever you can to decrease noise echo,” she says.

Colour Bombing

For too long we have layered neutrals on neutrals, only adding accents of colour as an afterthought. Now, we are seeing

colour at the forefront, on the runway, and across the big screen, with Barbiecore pink bleeding into our interiors as well.

If you’re nervous to try out this trend, Megan suggests choosing a colour that really resonates with you and expanding from there. “Doubling down on a colour superpower always comes across as passionate, inspiring, and very unexpected,” says Megan.

“Try to think: are there more shades or hues of the one colour you love that you can use more of? Are there other textures where this colour can be achieved in throws, cushions, and art?”

Refined Comfort

Our interiors were once the simple domain of a few afterwork hours before crawling into bed, but lockdowns have made us hyperaware of our surroundings, and we all have a new bar for home comfort.

“Living areas should wrap around us, bedrooms should envelop us, and workspaces should be practical and delightful,” says Megan. “It’s important to do a comfort audit to every room and assess what is comfortable to you.

Throw everything into question from your bed to your lighting, even look at how objects sit comfortably next to each other.”

Decorate Responsibly

The mantra for all shopping now relies on our love and care for the things we invest in. Choosing wisely means careful consideration, not necessarily endless budgets.

Megan’s three crucial steps to adopting this trend include:

• Start with investing in the big basics, like a bed, sofa, dining tables and patio sets as they will take up the most space and need to be well thought out.

• Ask yourself, do you really need this, and will this last me several years?

• Lastly, invest in fabrics, lighting, and art – these are the things people notice first. A pop of texture and glam is a subtle way to add some dimension to your home.

Access help for just the parts you need. We take your ideas and your style then pull it altogether so you can move forward. Avoid big ticket mistakes and achieve the stylish, timeless forever home you deserve

Scan to learn more about Choose your Own Adventure Decorating Services

www.journey-home.com.au

Invest first in big basics, like a bed or sofa, and then bring in the accent pieces, pops of colour and texture, that people will notice first in your home. Lyana 7-seater boucle sofa set, $1,999, and Esmund round coffee table, $289, luxoliving.com.au

Interior stylist Megan Morton says one trend we can expect this spring and summer is a higher bar for home comfort. Lyana single seater bouclé sofa, $499, luxoliving.com.au

canberraweekly.com.au/puzzles

No.

ACROSS

1 Pitcher (3)

3 Suggestively; obscenely (11)

9 Scorn (7)

10 Add sugar (7)

11 Roughly (8)

12 Court examinations (6)

14 Single (3)

15 The state of being 'in the moment' (11)

17 Healthy snack and cooking ingredient (6,5)

19 Australian football code (1.1.1)

20 Adjust (6)

21 Mark of disgrace (8)

24 Looks over again (7)

25 Particular (7)

26 Gamblers fear breaking one (5,6)

27 Fuel substance (3)

BRAIN BUSTERS

1 What is the long-nosed African sengi also known as?

VIRGO AUG 24 – SEPT 23

Your sign’s ruler, Mercury, will end its retrograde phase and you’ll begin to feel more in your element and clearer about how you’d like your life to progress. It’s a good week to boost both your personal life and health.

LIBRA SEPT 24 – OCT 23

A get-together or news from a friend or organisation will help you gain an understanding of your or someone else’s health. You may discover a new way to organise your daily schedule so it suits you better. You’ll enjoy a lovely reunion.

SCORPIO OCT 24 – NOV 22

Friday’s new moon will begin a fresh, sociable phase for you. You’ll gain the chance also to improve key relationships. A delicate matter is best kept on the table, or you risk missing the very bright side of love: togetherness.

SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 – DEC 21

DOWN

1 Sensible (9)

2 Lose freshness (2,5)

3 Arguments (5)

4 Isolation (10)

5 Comfortably warm (4)

6 Repeals (9)

7 Cloy (7)

8 Americans in the vernacular (5)

13 Lingering flavour after a meal (10)

15 Fleeting (9)

16 Parts which make up a word (9)

18 Ironic (7)

19 Miraculous (7)

20 Fourth month (5)

22 Of Greece (5)

23 Test to gain admittance into law school (1.1.1.1)

2 Is the planet Uranus made mostly of gas or ice?

3 What was Oprah Winfrey's first job in television?

4 Who was the 10th prime minister of Australia?

5 The works of which Roman author include Amores, Metamorphoses and Tristia?

SOLUTIONS

To make key decisions you need the facts and the truth. Work decisions may impact your home life and vice versa. It’s a good week to discuss your options with those they affect, especially as new doors open either socially or career-wise.

CAPRICORN DEC 22 – JAN 20

You’ll appreciate the opportunity to anchor your plans to do with your big-picture direction, family and home. News regarding a trip or legal matter will point the way towards an ideal outcome, so be sure to do your research.

AQUARIUS JAN 21 – FEB 19

Key get-togethers with kindred spirits will produce a lovely sense of belonging. Some may be a surprise or spontaneous. You’ll appreciate the chance to consider a fresh way to share resources, finances, duties or even space at home.

PISCES FEB 20 – MAR 20

Friday’s new moon will be in your partnership zone, suggesting a new, more settled phase is about to begin in a key business or personal relationship. However, this may involve a little soul-searching first or some research. Be positive and avoid assumptions.

ARIES MAR 21 – APR 20

A fresh incentive may catch your eye in a work context or involving a favourite project, interest or study course. If some information is initially unclear, be sure to find the facts. You may receive key family or financial news.

TAURUS APR 21 – MAY 21

It’s a good week to kickstart a creative project or personal incentive, as Friday’s new moon will help you to forge a solid outcome in practical ways. A domestic matter will become clearer as you work on a long-term plan and career options.

GEMINI MAY 22 – JUN 21

Friday’s new moon will kickstart a new chapter at home, with property or regarding those you love. You’ll gain solid facts and can determine your best way forward. Some Twins will receive key news regarding travel or legal matters.

CANCER JUN 22 – JUL 22

Friday’s new moon will help you put in place a solid structure for a personal project and financial incentive. You may receive an unexpected boost. If you tend to look at your projects idealistically, the realities of your circumstances will become clear.

LEO JUL 23 – AUG 23

A lovely surprise or boost will improve your fortunes, be this in the shape of support, finances or love. It’s the week to go for your goals with full confidence. Just be sure to avoid gambling – both financially and emotionally.

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

Rural luxury near Yass Manton NSW

162 Yass River Road

Known as Anneslie Estate, this grand property is the epitome of luxurious country living. Nestled along the scenic banks of the Yass River, it boasts six bedrooms, four bathrooms, three living rooms, a heated mineral swimming pool, full-size clay tennis court, and a nearly 100-metre wraparound deck offering breathtaking views of the river and rural surrounds.

A practical paradise located just six minutes from Yass, 25 minutes from Canberra, and 2.5 hours from Sydney, there’s plenty to adore about Anneslie.

“Where do I start?” says the previous owner. “The privacy – with no neighbours on either side, we have had the total freedom to live as we wanted without worrying about anyone watching.”

Cradled by hilltops, this property provides the backdrop to a fairytale childhood. “The variety of activities that kids can enjoy is almost endless.

From building tree houses, riding motorbikes, flying kites, and playing with animals, the list goes on and on,” says the previous owner.

“When you journey to the top of the hill or down to the edge of the river, there is nothing better than sitting there and enjoying a glass of wine and watching the world go by.”

An architectural beauty, with high ceilings, timber flooring, and grand stairs in the front and back, this home is a modern country Queenslander – exceptionally unique in the local area.

While the previous owner and their family were able to work and attend school in Canberra, the surrounding community of Yass offers a growing café scene and amazing restaurants and food.

“To have a private 25 acres so close to everything was a pure blessing,” they say.

6 4 15 1

Price $2,490,000

View Contact agent

Agent Lameh Mourad

Mob 0487 555 551

Agent Kad Gunestepe

Mob 0487 555 557

LJ Hooker Gungahlin

6213 3999

real estate recent sales

3/10 Canterbury Crescent, Deakin $2,880,000 Independent

21/7 State Circle, Forrest $2,439,000 Carter + Co

27 Nardoo Crescent, O’Connor $1,910,000 Ray White

10/85 Lowanna Street, Braddon $1,630,000 Independent

27 Maclagan Street, Isaacs $1,505,000 Blackshaw

9C Boronia Drive, O’Connor $1,420,000 Blackshaw

12 Wisdom Place, Hughes $1,417,000 Belle

10 Karl Langer Crescent, Taylor $1,400,000 Fuse

9 Somerville Street, Spence $1,302,500 Timothy Road

35A Gillespie Street, Weetangera $1,300,000 Ray White

29 Montgomery Avenue, Googong $1,295,000 Ray White

180 Robin Boyd Crescent, Taylor $1,290,000 Confidence

4 Stromlo Place, Jerrabomberra $1,270,000 Blackshaw

101 Chuculba Crescent, Giralang $1,251,000 Town Residential

17 Phantom Street, Harrison $1,124,000 LJ Hooker

14 Edkins Street, Downer $1,102,000 Blackshaw

31 Chevalier Street, Weston $1,090,000 Home by Holly

6 Gudgenby Close, Palmerston $1,070,000 Hugo.

15/3 Bowen Drive, Barton $1,030,000 Blackshaw

128 Bicentennial Drive, Jerrabomberra $991,000 Ward

2 Rosella Street, Nicholls $970,000 Blackshaw

39 Hallstrom Circuit, Monash $960,000 Confidence

4 Coghill Close, Kambah $960,000 My Morris

1 Clements Street, Florey $957,000 Michael Potter

32 Garraway Crescent, Googong $945,000 Ward

33 Poplar Crescent, Jerrabomberra $940,000 Distinct

88 De Little Circuit, Greenway

18 Mary Street, Googong $905,000 One Agency

136 Lambrigg Street, Farrer $900,000 Civium

74 De Little Circuit, Greenway $890,500 Luton

67 Carroll Street, Hughes $880,000 Edge

7 McManus Place, Calwell $870,000 McCann

169 Namatijira Drive, Fisher $855,000 Home by Holly

8/29 Cunningham Street, Kingston $855,000 Independent

41 Nambucca Street, Kaleen $846,000 Ray White

165 Anthony Rolfe Avenue, Gungahlin $842,000 Area Specialist

140/56 Eyre Street, Kingston $830,000 Purnell

12 Sharwood Crescent, Evatt $830,000 Belle

8 Hallett Place, Kambah $800,000 Michael Potter

1 Sullivan Crescent, Wanniassa $795,000 Ray White

16/44 Medworth Crescent, Lyneham $780,000 Home by Holly

63/65 Ainslie Avenue, Braddon $776,000 Solely

13/44 Catalano Street, Wright $775,000 LJ Hooker

9/23 Wanderlight Avenue, Lawson $770,000 New Door

49 Helen Leonard Crescent, Forde $766,899 MARQ

5/9 Gouldsmith Street, Dunlop $760,000 Belle

312/19

Stage

OUT

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

- The largest lots at the lowest prices within 30 mins of Canberra’s CBD

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

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

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

Townhouses from $749,900

Now selling, modern terrace style living in the heart of Gungahlin.

Enjoy the lifestyle of inner-city connectivity in a townhouse you could call home. Designed for low-maintenance modern living, 2 & 3-bedroom on a variety of two or three-storeys. With front and rear private open spaces for entertaining and direct garage access.

Walking proximity to Gungahlin Town Centre and adjacent to a nature reserve means you can truly have it all.

Secure off-the-plan terrace-style townhouses with only a 5% deposit.

Construction has commenced with completion in early 2025.

nuegungahlin.com.au

Aster is a contemporary mix of townhouses and apartments. Located in North Coombs, one of Canberra’s most nature rich suburbs, Aster provides picturesque vistas and outdoor opportunities all while being ideally located only minutes to local shops, parks and restaurants.

Be inspired by an attentive selection of spacious 1, 2, 3 and 4 bedroom layouts, designed to improve your lifestyle. Featuring open plan living, large courtyards, balconies, and well considered inclusions, these alluring residences will be a place you can call home.

Apartments from $430,000. Townhouses from $799,000.

Display Suite Now Open Saturday & Sunday 11am - 3pm

Cnr John Gorton Drive & Southcott View, North Coombs

For more information contact Andrew Ligdopoulos 0408 488 148

Artist’s Impression

3 BEDROOMS

2 BATHROOMS

1 CAR SPACE

AUCTION Sat 7/10/2023, 10am onsite

VIEWING Sat 16/9/2023, 12.10-12.40pm Sun 17/9/2023, 12.10-12.40pm

CONTACT Michael Potter 0413 830 598

Ignite your imagination

Single level, extended home with plenty of scope to add your own style and flair.

Offering open plan living and separate dining areas, multi-purpose room, ducted heating, timber kitchen, well maintained ensuite, bathroom and laundry. All bedrooms have builtin-robes and ducted gas heating throughout.

Established, neat and tidy gardens, single garage all in close proximity to popular amenities on offer in the Valley. EER 4

mpotter@mpotter.com.au

CURTIN 8 Willcock Place

AUCTION Sat 23/9/2023, 10am onsite

VIEWING S at 16/9/2023, 11.30-12 noon

Sun 17/9/2023, 11.30-12 noon

CONTACT Michael Potter 0413 830 598

It’s home at first sight

Nestled in the desirable pocket of Willcock Place, Number 8 is defined by a very versatile design offering stylish statements and an unbeatable location.

A long list of ‘must haves’ include a sleek ‘chef’s delight’ kitchen, well-proportioned designer bathrooms, separate living areas and a choice of parking and heating/cooling options.

A complete offering with studio apartment/ teenager’s retreat, private deck area and established gardens. A ‘must see’. EER 4

Sat 23/9/2023, 11.30am onsite

Sat 16/9/2023, 1-1.40pm

Sun 17/9/2023, 11.45-12.30pm

Alisa Lawrence 0404 066 119

Dressed to impress

A rare find in this peaceful location. Beautifully presented and maintained this home offers tasteful renovations and excellent entertaining areas all in a stunning garden setting – the whole package.

Families will love the eat-in style kitchen and adjacent custom home office area, while also enjoying a separate formal dining and living room.

Absolutely nothing to do but unpack, unwind and enjoy! EER 3.5

If you need information on sales or rentals in your suburb or would like a free appraisal on your property please contact

24 Pindari Cres O’Malley Sold $4,200,000

28 Pindari Cres, O’Malley Sold $3,350,000

22 Pindari Cres, O’Malley Sold $2,400,000

17 Cobbadah St, O’Malley Sold $2,050,000

119 Harrington Cres, Kambah Sold $840,000

27 Jean MacNamara St,Macgregor Sold $720,000

11 Gerogery Place, O’Malley

7 Bed | 4 Bath | 3 Car | EER: 1.5 For Sale $3,350,000

12 Keyar Street, O’Malley

5 Bed | 4 Bath | 2 Car | EER: 4.5 For Sale $3,090,000

Planning to downsize?

Brand new 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments selling now. We believe a home is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a place where you feel you belong. At Marigal Gardens, you’ll enjoy access to great facilities and feel part of an already established and thriving community, exclusive to over 55s. Where family and friends are always welcome.

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

• well-appointed kitchens with all the modern conveniences

• reverse cycle air-conditioning

• double glazing

• abundant light and ingenious use of space

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

• internal access to a secure car space

• 24-hour emergency assistance at the push of a button. Experience convenient and comfortable living, many with breathtaking views, in your choice of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments at Marigal Gardens.

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

WIN! Selleys prize packs competition

Are you ready to get spring cleaning?

Much-loved and trusted Aussie brand, Selleys is here to help with the launch of three new cleaning ranges, exclusive to Bunnings. To help celebrate the launch, Selleys is giving you the chance to WIN product from each of the ranges to test out in your own home. Included is Selley’s sustainably conscious product range re:act. The refillable spray bottles come with a selection of dissolvable pods to help reduce your contribution to landfill.

Prize includes: re:act: Glass + Mirror; Complete Clean: Bathroom & Shower, Multipurpose Disinfectant Wipes; and Polyglaze: Windscreen Additive Wash & Wax, Interior Protectant, Liquid Polish. CW has 5 x Selleys prize packs 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 this competition and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 22 September 2023 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.

$500 donated to RSPCA ACT when a new landlord signs up for Property Manager in September 2023*

Professional organiser and Selleys ambassador, Anita Birges with the new Selleys re:act cleaning range.

ATTENTION TRADIES

With the support of other benefactors, Canberra couple Richard Rolfe AM and Debbie Rolfe AM recently hosted a 90th birthday celebration at the Australian War Memorial for Keith Payne VC AM, the last living Australian recipient of the original Imperial Victoria Cross (CW 7 September p10).

Guests at the celebration received two commemorative coins: a 2015 $5 Australian Bravery gold-plated fine silver frosted uncirculated coin; and a 2018 $5 Land Sea Air coloured fine silver proof triangular coin acknowledging the three services of the Australian Defence Force – the Australian Army, the Royal Australian Navy and the Royal Australian Air Force.

Exclusively for CW readers, thanks to the generosity of Richard and Debbie Rolfe, we have five sets of these coins to be won.

STUDIO PODS

By Steeline Canberra

Granny Flat

Studio

Home Office

Pool Cabana

Home Gym

10m kit from $6,790

Steel flooring system

Range of sizes or custom sizing

Versiclad insulated roof panels

DIY kit form

Made in Canberra

Prefabricated Truecore® steel frames

Australian made Colorbond® cladding

FREE QUOTE: 02 6242 2211 CRT@CRTPRODUCTS.COM.AU