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MARKETING MANAGER Bianca Naoumidis bianca@newstimemedia.com.au
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Well done Red Hill Primary!
CO N T R IBU
BILL STEFANIAK AM RFD FORMER ACT
OPPOSITION LEADER
Happy New Year to you all. I’d like to start the year with a good news story.
Now, I’m a bit biased, as I was in the first intake of pupils at the thenbrand-new Red Hill Primary School in 1960 — pupil number 441, to be exact.
I’m pleased to see that the school seems to be following a policy I implemented in 1995, which ensures all students participate in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week while also utilising their P&C funds for
ground and oval improvements. In the late ‘90s, I am aware that Macquarie Primary followed this approach, maintaining approximately an acre of sports ground suitable for a rugby, league, or soccer-sized playing field.
The 1995 policy was the result of a large committee consisting of PE teachers, P&C representatives, and even my shadow Labor colleague Roberta McRae, along with our thenGreen member Kerrie Tucker. As a result, everyone had ownership of the final outcome of their deliberations, and most people were very happy with it. The principal of our school at Jervis Bay told me that for 30 minutes before lunch, he ensured all his students burned o energy through PE. He found that after the lunch break, the students were much more focused and attentive during their afternoon lessons.
One of the advantages of schools
investing in sports fields is that the community can also benefit from their use. I regularly played tennis at Kingswood Smith Kindergarten to Year 10 School on the bitumen tennis courts when I was the local member for Ginninderra, as they were open to the public and featured a steel net to prevent vandalism.
I was therefore delighted to see the Red Hill P&C establish a magnificent, well-maintained rugby/ soccer field several years ago. The Red Hill P&C has since extended these facilities by adding a half-sized synthetic soccer pitch next to the field. Additionally, on the previously unkempt part of the old oval, they constructed a basic BMX track for the kids. They have also built a basketball court and a shaded area closer to the school.
I regularly see both fields filled with active, happy students during
chores
Our Serviced Apartments make life a little easier.
the school term. After school and on weekends, an increasing number of adult groups can be seen playing sports — often soccer, but also everything from frisbees and touch footy to goal-kicking practice on the fields, as well as basketball games on the courts.
So, well done to the Red Hill P&C and school community for this initiative. I commend it to other P&Cs and hope the current government continues to ensure that all its government schools, from K to Year 10, engage in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week.
It’s common knowledge that healthy children perform better at school than unhealthy, unfit children. I believe the Red Hill school community deserves recognition from the ACT Government for their e orts on this initiative if they have not already received it.
At the Grange Deakin, our serviced apartments allow you to enjoy the comfort of your own one bedroom apartment with meals prepared by our chef onsite, your apartment cleaned, and bedlinen and towels changed weekly. All this with the added benefit of no home maintenance, so you’ll have more time to enjoy the things you love.
Take a stroll through the village gardens, a dip in the pool, enjoy a chat with your neighbours or participate in the village activities. All before you step outside the village or wander to the Deakin shops, just 300m up the road. Call 02 6282 1782 to book a private tour.
Another year of Canberra’s Summernats cruises on by
More than 130,000 revheads flocked to Exhibition Park in Canberra across the weekend for the 2025 Summernats.
Summernats 37 ran at EPIC, with additional events in Braddon and along Northbourne Avenue, from 2-5 January.
Across the Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, 30,000 people attended the Braddon Fringe Festival.
Summernats co-owner Andy Lopez said this year’s event was their most successful to date.
“Record crowds poured into the nation’s capital to enjoy what we reckon is the best car festival in the world,” Mr Lopez said.
“The atmosphere was incredible, and the crowd behaviour was excellent. NSRG Security and ACT Policing set a really positive, supportive vibe from the moment people arrived until they went home.
“The Summernats team put a huge effort into delivering something special this year, and I’m so proud of every single person in our amazing crew. Long live Summernats!”
A total of 2,500 cars cruised and were showcased at EPIC, while 500 vehicles took to the streets of Canberra for the annual city cruise.
In the pavilion, 23 brand new elite cars were uncovered.
The Summernats Grand Champion was crowned on Sunday 5 January, which went to John Fenech’s LJ Torana; a tribute to Sam Fenech, a much-loved engine builder and drag racer who lost his life in an accident at Willowbank Raceway in Queensland in 2023.
The $50,000 in the Pro Burnout Series went to Peter Grmusa, who had previously retired from the sport.
The venue was packed to the rafters across the weekend as car lovers watched lawnmower
races, burnouts on grass, skid row and on the burnout pad and live music was played, while spectators had a drink or two and a bite to eat.
For the car owners, Summernats gave them a chance to show off the vehicles they had poured their blood, sweat and tears into with an array of events on offer.
Security was questioned prior to the event due to incidents that occurred at the 2024 event, and while there was an improvement in 2025, Summernats 37 wasn’t without incident.
ACT Policing was generally happy with crowd behaviour both inside EPIC and the fringe festival but a small number of arrests were made for matters including assault, breach of bail, failing to comply with a police direction and assault police.
Officers also issued almost 30 ‘move on’ directions, more than 95 traffic infringement notices and 32 vehicle defect notices.
Three vehicles were seized and five drivers tested positive to illicit drugs while driving.
Police are also seeking witnesses and dashcam footage of an incident involving a black Mazda SUV and a traffic controller working near EPIC on Friday 3 January.
Tickets for the 2026 event are already on sale.
S U M M E R M A R K E T RE - OPENING FOR 2025!
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and see some of the best handcrafts and highquality items on offer. Take a bite of some freshly baked treats, summer fruits, artful accessories from jewellers, and listen to our many talented performers.
LILLIAN ALTMAN
Photos Jordan Mirchevski
New Year, new smile
Canberra’s ‘dog whisperer’
GEORGIA
Canberra resident Jeremy Wikner is a “dog whisperer” of sorts, training dogs to be expert trackers and his natural teaching method – the only one like it in Australia - is sought after in South Africa, New Caledonia and New Zealand.
What looks like just a stroll with a pooch on a leash is actually complex, with Jeremy watching the dog’s body language, posture and speed, right down to its tail wag (even noting wind direction, temperature and humidity).
Jeremy can harness a dog’s innate scent tracking skill and in turn, help dogs to catch poachers in South Africa, find missing persons and offenders for New Caledonian
police, and conduct search and rescue in Australia.
He recently finished a workshop in Canberra, where his furry students included a Kelpie, Dutch Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Belgian Malinois, Springer Spaniel, and a Bloodhound.
“The natural training method [GAK9] uses a dog’s innate scenttracking skills,” Jeremy said.
“Every dog uses their nose from the moment they are born and do so initially to find their mother’s teat for milk. These are skills that are ingrained in dogs at birth and cannot be reproduced by humans.
“Our philosophy is that we cannot train a dog to track because they already have this ability from the moment they crawl. On the contrary, human interpretation of
this ability is often biased and contradictory to the tracking instinct of canines.”
So, Jeremy gives the dog its nose, or as he says, “teaches without teaching”.
Canberra’s nature reserves are perfect for laying trails for dogs to track. Jeremy simply walks a trail, placing a “scent article” (like a bottle) at the start point, which tells the dog who they are tracking.
Then he waits. Jeremy has waited at the end of a track for anywhere from 10 minutes to more than four hours.
“Our job as a dog handler is to teach the dog to track in a variety of environments [urban and field] and stay focused on one target at a time; olfactory discrimination,” he said.
“These training styles enable the dog to learn through self-discovery.”
A recent graduate of Jeremy’s school is Hans the Belgian Malinois, who’s been deployed to South Africa to search for poachers hunting rhinoceros. So far, Hans has had great success and Jeremy receives regular updates.
If you book in for one of Jeremy’s workshops, he delivers tracking skills in days, not months. He prepares dogs for the real world through “evasion tracking” (when a person being pursued tries to throw a dog off their trail) and “double blind testing”
(where no-one present with the dog has a clue about where the track is).
Other former students of Jeremy’s (all Belgian Malinois) include Errol, sold to a wildlife conservation organisation in Victoria; Dirk, sold to the Australian Army (military police in Darwin) and Frank, sold to state police.
When Jeremy’s not training dogs, he’s, well, training dogs. He works for the Federal Department of Defence in Canberra.
This year, Jeremy’s off to South Africa and New Zealand for more GAK9 tracking training, making him one of only 60 qualified trainers in the world
(and the only one in Australia).
Despite Jeremy’s proven expertise, not all dogs graduate, and his own pet dog Charlie is a failed working dog. He’s an 11-year-old Belgian Malinois from the Netherlands (he speaks Dutch) and he was discharged from a government agency because he was nervous around gunfire (who wouldn’t be).
Charlie’s now the family pet, who doesn’t do much tracking, but Jeremy’s two-year-old toddler loves him.
Jeremy Wikner runs Ascencion Canine Training ascensioncaninetraining.com and is on Facebook.
Local dog whisperer Jeremy Wikner trains dogs to be expert trackers. Photo: Olivia Wikner
have you heard?
GIVIT donation of the week: Clothing voucher
GIVIT is requesting the donation of clothing vouchers for a woman who is struggling with a mental illness. She is currently being assisted by an organisation in Canberra that supports families and individuals in hardship. Due to traumatic events from her past, this woman has been struggling with severe depression, anxiety and addiction. As a result, she faces challenges in meeting her daily needs. GIVIT is requesting the donation of some essentials such as clothing vouchers to help her return to normal life while getting the support she needs. Generous Canberrans can donate clothing vouchers or fund the purchase of vouchers. 100% of your financial donation will be used to purchase these items.To help please visit: GIVIT.org.au/what’s-needed, search; Location State: ‘ACT’, Keywords: ‘clothing vouchers’ and Suburb: ‘Yarralumla ACT 2600’.
Try Tai Chi
A new round of beginner classes run by the non-profit Taoist Tai Chi Society will commence across Canberra in the week beginning 3 February. Suitable for all ages and abilities. If you’d like to check out what’s involved and ‘have a go’ for free, we are holding Open Houses on Saturday 18 January from 10 to 11:15am at Woden Valley Uniting Church, 40 Gillies St, Curtin, and on Saturday 1 February from 11:15am to 12:45pm at Folk Dance Hall, 114 Maitland St, Hackett. Come to one or both! No need to register for Open Houses. For further information, contact act@ taoisttaichi.org or call 0427 734 271.
Suited for persons who are retired or semi-retired looking for additional income. Applicants need a driver’s licence and one tonne ute, van or equivalent.
Must be available on Thursday mornings from 8am to commence deliveries.
community noticeboard
email news@newstimemedia.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field
Omnia Adventurers and Social Club
Would you like to meet new people and forge new friendships while enjoying a wide range of social activities? Omnia Adventurers and Social Club could be the place for you! Our activities include drinks and dinner on Friday nights, regular walks around town, bushwalking, movies, gallery outings and more! We are a welcoming group of people who would love to meet you. Please come and join us! Please check out our new, improved website at oaasc. memberjungle.com for further information and to apply to join.
Return your Bottles and Cans for Rise Above
Did you know Rise Above are now registered to receive donations from the ACT Container Deposit Scheme? When you return your 10 cent bottles and cans to recycling centres across Canberra, it is very easy to donate your credits to Rise Above. You can help Rise Above - Capital Region Cancer Relief to help local cancer patients and at the same time the planet. Now that’s a win/win. Deposit sites go to: actcds.org.au/return-points. Alternatively, tax deductible donations can be made at riseabvecbr.org.au
ARIES (MARCH 21-APRIL 19)
Because you are so creative, your mind whirrs with possibilities. As you’re decisive, you quickly narrow down your options to the ones that make the most sense. As you’re a leader, your choices will be mimicked by others. And as you’re open, you’ll forge ahead, gathering strength in numbers.
TAURUS (APRIL 20-MAY 20)
It’s an ambitious time. Cheer yourself on. Words can be like a spell, compelling you toward the goal. But keep the energy to yourself. Your own ambition is a source of fuel; but that of others gives you unnecessary rules, making things harder than they need to be.
GEMINI (MAY 21-JUNE 21)
BRAIN BUSTERS
1 Jonas Salk developed a vaccine against which disease during the 20th century?
2 Lake Murray and Lake Kutubu are the largest lakes in which country?
3 What is the main ingredient in traditional Latin American ceviche?
4 What is the symbol of the chemical element, manganese?
5 How many stars appear on the logo of Instagram?
Attempt things without wondering if you’ll be good at them because the only thing that matters is that you experience everything in life as much as possible. Besides, being skilled is far less important than enjoying a process. Learning is a pleasure – like a massage for the mind.
CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22)
When you’re happy, other people will be happy, too. When you learn something new, seek your own delight and take care of yourself, you are building all your other relationships at the same time because your relationship with yourself is the cornerstone for every other connection.
LEO (JULY 23-AUG. 22)
You’ll sort out complications because you’re so excellent at seeing the state of things. You notice how things work. It’s easy for you to know how things really are – to separate fact from fiction and artifice from the essence. You’ll use this gift to improve life for more than just you.
VIRGO (AUG. 23-SEPT. 22)
When you need something, it’s normal to reach out to the people who are close to you, though they are not always the ones who are able to provide what you need. Maybe, sometimes you just need escape, joy, fun and connection, and what you’re given are results that don’t apply to your scene.
LIBRA (SEPT. 23-OCT. 23)
When you feel out of place, it’s a good sign – a reminder that you’re the person who puts themself in unfamiliar situations. With personal growth an inevitable outcome, you embrace the awkwardness that comes with new experiences. Your confidence will bring opportunity.
SCORPIO (OCT. 24-NOV. 21)
And while it’s fun to imagine big, exciting experiences, when it comes to having an experience, small moments of joy are often your favorite. This week’s thrills come from the idea that change is coming. Indications of progress will bring satisfaction. It’s good to know that you make a difference.
SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 22-DEC. 21)
What you do is special but maybe you’re too close to your work to see how it fits into the big picture. This week, someone will give you the perspective that helps you understand it differently. This is the game changer that allows you to concentrate your efforts where they’ll count the most.
CAPRICORN (DEC. 22-JAN. 19)
You have a host of reasons for diving into an endeavour, and the money involved is the least influential factor. You want to know you’ve brought more joy into the world. One way to be sure of this is to do what brings you enjoyment. If it works for you, chances are it will work for others.
AQUARIUS (JAN. 20-FEB. 18)
You have plenty of interests and there’s much you want to accomplish, so it makes sense that you’re resistant to jumping into another person’s grand vision. However, it could be lucky to participate in someone else’s dream. New skills and friends are coming your way this week.
PISCES (FEB. 19-MARCH 20)
You’ve overcome so much already and you’re still dreaming. Perhaps you feel invisible, but your efforts, your dreams, your troubles – they matter. Help will show up. Your resilience is legendary, and your ability to find a way forward will be a source of pride, confidence and success.
DIFFICULTY RATING
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and flavour at Patissez. From our signature Freakshakes to savory tacos and delightful French toasts, there’s something for everyone.
Visit us for a cozy meal or follow @patissez on Instagram for updates.
www.patissez.com
Mango delights
Celebrate the vibrant flavours of Australian mangoes with these refreshing, fruity desserts. Perfect for warm days, they’re simple, delicious, and sure to be a hit with the whole family! Recipes from Australian Mangoes.
Rippled Mango Popsicles
Mango ice cream
2 whole mangoes
400gm double cream
3 cups fresh milk
½ cup caster sugar
Vanilla ice cream
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
½ cup sugar
1 vanilla bean pod, split in half lengthwise
¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
You can use store-bought vanilla ice cream if you prefer.
Mango Chia Pudding
¾ cup chia seeds
2 cups coconut milk
1 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
¼ cup honey extra water
Mango ice cream
Remove the mango flesh from the fruit, and place into a blender with the remaining ingredients.
Puree until smooth (about a minute) and then chill in the freezer in a large plastic container with a lid.
After 1 hour remove from the freezer and stir, and then return to the freezer for another 4 hours or until set.
Vanilla ice cream
Pour 1 cup of cream into a medium saucepan, and add the sugar and salt. Scrape the seeds from the vanilla bean pod into the saucepan, and add the pod to the pot. Warm over medium heat, stirring, until the sugar is dissolved.
2 chopped mangoes (pureed) 1 tablespoon lemon juice
In a large bowl mix together ¾ cup chia seeds with 2 cups coconut milk, 1 cup water and one teaspoon vanilla essence.
Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Next day, stir ¼ cup honey through the mix. Add a little extra water if mixture
Remove from the heat; add the remaining 1 cup cream, milk and the vanilla extract. Chill the mixture thoroughly in the refrigerator. Once mixture is chilled and ready to churn, remove the vanilla bean and then freeze the mixture in your ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Assembly
To make the popsicles use a teaspoon to make the bottom layer of mango. Return to the freezer to set slightly (for 1 hour), then s poon in a layer of vanilla. Allow the vanilla layer to set before filling up the rest with more mango. Insert a paddle pop stick into the center of the ice cream, then freeze overnight for best results. Dip the popsicles in warm water to remove them from the molds and serve.
is too thick.
Puree two chopped mangoes (reserve a handful not pureed) with 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Place half the puree in the base of four serving cups or glasses.
Divide the chia pudding mixture over the mango puree, then top each glass with remaining mango puree. Serve puddings garnished with extra chopped mango and toasted coconut.
Step into the wilderness with virtual reality
LILLIAN ALTMAN
Take a step into the world of the Kimberley in the northern part of Western Australia without even leaving Canberra.
You can experience this through the virtual reality (VR) documentary, The Great Kimberley Wilderness, which opened at the National Museum of Australia (NMA) on Boxing Day, 26 December.
The Great Kimberley Wilderness is narrated by the eldest Hemsworth brother, Luke, with appearances of scientists and traditional owners.
The documentary showcases a variety of landscapes, from coastlines to gorges, and explores stunning locations such as King George Falls and the UNESCO-listed Purnululu
National Park.
White Spark Pictures managing director Benn Ellard said the VR headsets were provided upon entering the theatre.
“It’s a completely seated experience, no headphones,” Mr Ellard said.
“It’s a documentary that runs for 35 minutes, so you experience the film through the headset, 360 degrees up, down and all around.
“Then you’ve got the external audio of the actual theatre. It’s an immersive 360-degree sound, so if you hear a cricket or a bird behind you, there’s a cricket or a bird in that direction.”
He said not having to wear headphones meant it was a shared experience with the rest of the audience.
“You can hear the oohs and aahs of everyone else’s reactions to things that are happening on the screen like you would when you go to a movie,” Mr Ellard said.
“For us, we think that’s a really important way to create that sense of a shared experience in VR, which has been missing in a lot of experiences that you usually do.
“It’s either someone doing it by themselves or in a game, or even when it is shared, it’s with headphones.”
CW took a test run, strapping on the headset and watching the film alongside others ahead of its opening.
One minute you are the passenger of a helicopter looking down on the spectacular scenery of the Kimberley,
the next minute you’re standing on the edge of a cli or in a cave looking at Indigenous art.
It was so cool being able to turn your head from left to right, up and down, to view everything that was surrounding you. However, being seated, it was a little bit more di cult to look at what was behind you.
The Kimberley is a place I have wanted to visit for a while and watching this film made me want to go even more.
I would suggest anyone who gets motion sickness or vertigo or is afraid of heights to take caution.
For session times, to book tickets or for more information, visit nma.gov.au/ whats-on/tours-experiences/the-greatkimberley-wilderness
FREE ENTRY | OPEN 7 DAYS | VISIT TODAY 18 King George Terrace, Parkes, Canberra, Ngunnawal, Ngunawal, Ngambri Country
CATHY WILCOX Climate Action Nine Papers 26 July 2024
Audience members watching The Great Kimberley Wilderness documentary through the VR headsets. Picture: Jordan Mirchevski
‘Regional plus Canberra’: Take 5 with Sarah Blasko
LILLIAN ALTMAN
Multi-ARIA-Award-winning Australian singer-songwriter Sarah Blasko will kick off her extended I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain “regional” tour in Canberra in 2025. She will perform at the Canberra Theatre Centre on 1 February in her first regional tour since 2017. Tickets are on sale at sarahblasko.com, with special guests to be announced.
1How was your recent visit to Canberra for RockWiz LIVE! and how does it feel to be coming back again soon?
I love performing there because that’s where my family is – my sister (Kate) and her family (partner and three children) and my dad and his partner – they all ended up there by coincidence.
So, when people get online and ask why I’m not coming to Canberra, I say the first people I have to answer to are my family, as they don’t come up to Sydney.
Although my dad (Nikolai Blaskow) did come up to my recent show and his car broke down on the way.
Dad didn’t think there was a train that day as they were cancelled. He caught a taxi from Sutton Forest which cost him $450 – and his car was towed back to Canberra, so I think it ended up costing him thousands of dollars.
I told him I’m coming to Canberra on 1 February, so I’ll have to make the show slightly different.
We went to Canberra a couple of times, and
we love it now, but when I was a teenager, it didn’t seem like an exciting holiday. Then Mum would say, “We’ll cycle around the lake.”
2
How does it feel to do regional touring again?
I didn’t do much of a regional tour with my last album, Depth of Field, which came out in 2018.
I’ve done a regional tour with pretty much every album, so I was a bit sad about that.
It’s great to get out of the cities. People are appreciative and responsive which is a bit different to the cities. I consider Canberra to be a city and regional. I didn’t want to offend anybody – so it’s regional plus Canberra.
3
What can audience members attending the show expect?
It’s a continuation of the shows, where I want to showcase my new record and a selection from all of my albums.
There’s a pretty strong emotional intensity and emotional quality to this show and the songs all together in this one show.
I’ve been amazed at the reaction of the audience because sometimes you don’t know how it’s going to play out when you play the whole record, which I plan to do but that may change.
I think it’s been impactful and not in a way that I’ve experienced before. It’s special. The first half of the record is about being heartbroken and trying to work out what to do.
The second half, which I based the tracklist on, becomes more obvious and heightened when played live, showcasing the real struggle and release of that part of the record.
4
How does it feel that 20 years have passed since your first album, The Overture and the Underscore, was released, and how do you reflect on the career that has followed?
It feels amazing really and while I hoped I would have had so many records, I never took it as a given that would happen.
So, I’m just glad that I haven’t gotten so discouraged over that time – and there have been many times I’ve wanted to give
up - so I think more than anything I’m happy I haven’t given up. I love and appreciate it more than ever.
In your twenties maybe you take everything for granted but now at 48, I don’t take anything for granted.
I feel like I’ve found my voice in a way I didn’t have on the first record and a confidence I have developed over time.
I feel fortunate to have been able to develop in my own time, gradually, and people have come along for that journey. I didn’t come up fully informed.
5
What’s next after this tour?
The plan is to do some overseas shows halfway through and later in the year.
My first two albums haven’t been released on vinyl - I didn’t think I’d ever see the day vinyls would come back – so I might do a series of shows to celebrate that.
I also hope to do heaps of shows and hopefully write a new record. I made this one at the end of 2022 so I’m really looking forward to writing again.
Celebrating Lunar New Year Of The Snake - 2025 新年大吉
Tuesday 28 Jan 2025 at 6pm – 1am
Gourmet vegetarian food stalls open and annual dinner, cultural music and performances including lion dance, prayers for ancestors, parents, and families, gifts and giveaways,
Wednesday, 29 January –
Saturday, 1 February 2025 6:00AM-8pm
Monastery open for visitors and prayers, New Year sermon and service, and lunch
Sunday, 2 February 2025 6:00 AM–8:00 PM
Monastery open for visitors and prayers, memorial services for Most Ven. Thich Giac Tanh and Most Ven. Thich Thien Hoa and communal luncheon for all attendees.
Sakyamuni Buddhist Centre 32 Archibald St, Lyneham ACT 2602 | 0412 224 553 thichquangba@gmail.com
Sarah Blasko. Photo: Mclean Stephenson
Stunning pictures, epic sound: IMAX opens in Canberra
former Canberra Raiders captain Jarrod Croker.
The sound of a lion roaring, raging water, and a rocket ship launching can be felt through your body at Canberra’s new IMAX screen.
The new addition to Dendy Canberra was celebrated in December, with the red carpet rolled out for the exclusive ACT premiere of Mufasa: The Lion King—the first venue in the capital to screen the film ahead of its release.
Guests at the screening—where drinks, food, and live music flowed—included Member for Canberra, Alicia Payne MP, and
The live music included a medley from The Lion King, speeches were made, and a taste of the three-dimensional (3D) IMAX experience was had.
The panoramic screen is floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall, and uses laser technology and a multi-channel sound system.
Dendy Icon Group chief executive officer Sharon Strickland said Canberra was chosen because locals had a “long love affair” with Dendy Canberra.
“So, it was the perfect cinema complex to bring IMAX to the
people of Canberra,” Ms Strickland said.
She said it was only the third IMAX screen in Australia—the others are in Melbourne and Sydney—but the first independent cinema to partner with IMAX.
“So, it’s incredibly exciting we’re bringing to the capital of Australia this amazing cinema experience that you will get nowhere else in
Canberra,” Ms Strickland said.
She said IMAX was the most immersive cinema experience.
“It’s not just about the size of the screen, but it’s about the surround sound,” Ms Strickland said.
“The speakers are placed everywhere around the auditorium to give everybody the amazing experience and feel the sound coming up to the body.
Dendy Icon Group chief executive officer Sharon Strickland and Dendy Canberra project manager Leigh Barnett at Dendy Canberra’s IMAX. Photos: Jordan Mirchevski
LILLIAN ALTMAN
“But it’s also about the images on the screen, they are crystal clear, and the colour brightness that you won’t get on any other projector.”
More than 300 people can fit into the cinema.
When asked how cinemas have adapted to people streaming shows and movies at home, Ms Strickland said visiting IMAX was about the “experience”.
“It’s about creating an experience that makes you want to get off your couches and come to the (Canberra) Centre. Something like IMAX is happening worldwide, with people wanting premium, large-format screens to immerse themselves in the film,” she said.
Films already out that will be screened at IMAX include Wicked, Gladiator II and the 10th anniversary of Interstellar. Releases for 2025 include Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts*, How to Train Your Dragon, F1,
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning and Superman.
Some films will also be screened in 3D, including concerts and documentaries.
“In time there will be live events at IMAX,” Ms Strickland said.
Dendy Canberra project manager Leigh Barnett said bringing IMAX to Canberra was the independent cinema chain’s biggest achievement.
IMAX at Dendy Canberra opened to the public on 19 December.
showingNow
based on Shakespeare’s Hamlet with touching, memorable songs from Sir Elton John.
Mufasa: The Lion King (PG)
In the Pride Lands of Tanzania, after the events of The Lion King (2019), Simba (voiced by Donald Glover) and Nala (Beyoncé Knowles-Carter) leave their young daughter Kiara (Blue Ivy Carter) with Timon the meerkat (Billy Eichner), Pumbaa the warthog (Seth Rogan) and Rafiki, the shaman mandrill (John Kani) as they head off for the day together. To keep Kiara calm during a storm, the trio tells her the story of how her grandfather, Mufasa (Aaron Pierre), first met Scar, then known as Taka, (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) and went on to become the Lion King!
The Lion King (1994) is a beloved two-dimensional animation, riffing off the classic Japanese Manga magazine serial Kimba the White Lion, which was published from 1950-1954 and released as a television series in the mid-1960s,
The 2019 remake failed to recapture the magic due to its photorealistic CGI animation dulling the highly emotive expressions of its cast of singing characters. This sequel takes a note from The Godfather: Part II (1974) by playing both as a sequel and a prequel to the original, explaining the origins of our leads and a few side characters as well.
Disappointingly, but quite contemporarily, the story deviates from the importance of a royal bloodline, stressing the point of self-made heroes and chosen families. Mufasa finds himself as an interloper, becoming quick friends with a young king-in-waiting who eventually becomes the outed Scar. Verdict: An amazing-looking but frenetic and redundant semi-remake that makes the same errors as its predecessor.
- Luke McWilliams, themovieclub.net Viewed at Dendy Cinemas IMAX screen
time out
Booktalk
Jeff Popple reviews three enjoyable books to start off the year’s reading. More of Jeff’s reviews can be found on his blog: murdermayhemandlongdogs.com
The Writing Class by Esther Campion
Hachette, $32.99
Those looking for a ‘feel good’ read to start the year off with, will embrace Esther Campion’s The Writing Class. Devastated when her husband leaves her, recently retired teacher Vivian Molloy retreats to her home in a small, picturesque town in rural Tasmania. Forced out of her solitude by a friend, Vivian reluctantly takes up the challenge of teaching a writing class at the local library. Her expectations are low, but she soon finds new confidence and happiness as the class becomes a refuge for an odd collection of strangers. A pleasant, heartwarming tale about second chances and unlikely friendships.
Best Australian Political Cartoons 2024
edited by Russ Radcliffe Scribe, $35
Convict-Era Port Arthur by prolific Canberran historian David Cameron takes us back to Australia’s own dark days. With his usual readable style, Cameron provides a comprehensive, well-researched history of the Port Arthur penal settlement from the first arrival of the convicts till its closure in 1877. Using a variety of sources, including detailed archive records, Cameron tells the story of Port Arthur through the words of the soldiers, convicts and administrators who spent time there. Recommended.
One Dark Night by Hannah Richell
Simon & Schuster, $32.99
The early morning discovery of a murdered girl’s body at the bottom of an old stone folly in the supposedly haunted woods near a small British town sets Hannah Richell’s One Dark Night off to a grim start. The girl is a student at the local school where investigating detective Ben Chase’s daughter goes, and he soon finds himself pressured to find the killer before his daughter’s involvement in the night becomes public. Mixing family drama with detective work, and a touch of the supernatural, it moves along at a solid pace with clever twists and an underlying sense of tension. Good beach reading.
Canberra Weekly competition winners!
The winners in Canberra Weekly’s latest round of competition draws are:
The Booster by The Help: K. Bell, Forrest; D. Reid, Phillip; A. Lipapis, Cook; L. Curtis, Gungahlin; G. Poole, Calwell
Scott Leggo ‘Cracked’: E. Watson, Banks
Parthenope Film Passes: S. Hudson, Wanniassa; D. Casey, Franklin; A. McGuinness; T. Filippello, Karabar; N. Such, Griffith
Fluerette Aromatherapy: J. Burge, Curtin; C. Fulton, Latham; T. Baxter, Jacka
Vtech: N. Preston, Kambah
DinoFest Canberra
More than 30 huge dinosaurs will stomp into Acton for Canberra’s first-ever showing of the ultimate outdoor dinosaur event that has taken Australia by storm, featuring life-size, real walking and moving dinosaurs.
Black Mount Peninsula, Acton, 11 January to 2 February; dinofest.com
17
Raiders open training session
Fans can attend the Raiders Centre to watch an open training session as the Canberra Raiders prepare for their Las Vegas trip and the 2025 season. The team mascots, Victor and Velda, will be there and there will also be an opportunity to try out Wheelchair Rugby League.
Raiders Centre, Braddon, 17 January, 2-4pm; facebook.com/ share/12DFHnB2R5v
24-26
Drone SkyShow + Night Markets
The FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow & Night Markets returns to the National Capital on the Australia Day weekend for a series of shows to reflect, respect and celebrate the ever-evolving story of our nation.
Commonwealth Place and Regatta Point, 24-26 January; nca.gov.au/ events/flight-drone-skyshow-nightmarkets-2025
25-26 JAN
Festival of Speed
More than 200 of the world’s most exotic road and race cars will take part in the “ultimate garden party”. Cars will blast past the spectators around the purpose-built exhibition circuit. There will also be interactive trade stalls and a European food village.
EPIC, from 4pm Saturday and 9am Sunday, 25-26 January; canberrafestivalofspeed.com
QUALITY AUSTRALIAN HEMP PRODUCTS
26
JAN
Australia Day AfroAboriginal Cultural Dance Fusion
An African and Aboriginal cultural showcase. Experience the fusion of cultures to celebrate Australia Day, with free food and drinks included.
Yerrabi Pond District Park, Gungahlin, January 26, 1-5pm; eventbrite.com.au/o/celebrationof-african-australians-actinc-8572581937
01
Canberra Lunar New Year Festival
FEB
Welcome the Year of the Snake with cultural performances, traditional food, live music and more.
Woolley Street, Dickson, 1 February, 10am-10pm; events. canberra.com.au/whatson/6752405b087b4181358ba1c5/ canberra-lunar-new-year-festival
15 FEB
The Big Gay Yoga Day
A yoga, meditation, breathwork and sound healing event for the LGBTQ+ community, their friends and chosen family. Lead by four local queer wellness facilitators. It includes lunch and snacks. $5 from every ticket purchase will be donated to the queer youth charity Minus18.
The Griffith Neighbourhood Centre, 15 February, 10am-4pm; andreasembodiment.com/ biggayyogaday
21-23
2025 Royal Canberra Show
FEB
This year’s show will include bmx trick bicycles, showjumping, a grand parade, fireworks, dog races, animals, rides, showbags and more.
Exhibition Park in Canberra, 21-23 February; canberrashow.org.au
Find more listings at canberradaily.com.au
To advertise here, contact Anand on 0432 887 457 or anand@newstimemedia.com.au
Mental health goal setting for the new year health & wellbeing
CO N T R IBU
VIVIENNE
LEWIS
ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AT UNIVERSITY OF CANBERRA
The start of a new year is an excellent time to reflect on your mental wellbeing and plan for positive changes. Consider what habits or experiences from the past year energised you and what drained your energy. For example, did regular exercise, spending time outdoors, or connecting with loved
ones help you feel more balanced? On the other hand, did overcommitting, skipping rest, or excessive screen time leave you feeling depleted? Reflecting on these patterns can guide you in making thoughtful adjustments.
Set realistic goals that are clear and achievable. Instead of broadly aiming to “sleep better,” try a specific goal like, “I’ll go to bed by 10:30pm on weeknights.” Goals aligned with your personal values—such as improving your health, deepening relationships, or creating more downtime—are often more fulfilling and motivating. Planning self-care activities and scheduling them into your routine is key to maintaining your
wellbeing. Small, consistent actions like setting aside 15 minutes daily to read, meditate, or enjoy a hobby can have a big impact over time. Regular physical activity—whether it’s walking, dancing, or yoga—can also boost your mood and energy levels. The key is to choose activities that bring you joy and fit into your lifestyle.
It’s also important to anticipate challenges that might interfere with self-care and create backup plans. If bad weather makes outdoor exercise difficult, prepare an indoor alternative like a workout video. If stress gets in the way, try quick relaxation techniques like deep breathing or grounding exercises to help you refocus. Thinking ahead makes it easier to stay consistent with your goals, even when obstacles arise.
Learning to say no to commitments that drain your energy is another valuable habit. Protecting your time allows you to focus on what truly matters. For example, instead of automatically agreeing to every request, try saying, “I’d love to help, but I’m not able to right now.” Similarly, reducing time spent on social media can free up space for more meaningful activities. You might set limits, such as no social media an hour before bed or taking one “screen-free” day each week.
Canberra Weekly Half Page Ad Health & Wellbeing - 213mm W x 125mm H.pdf 1 06/12/2024 11:32:32 am
Regularly reviewing your goals and adjusting them as needed helps you stay on track. If exercising every day feels overwhelming, scale back to three times a week and incorporate gentler activities on other days. Flexibility ensures that your goals remain achievable and sustainable.
Taking time to care for yourself is not only essential for your wellbeing but also helps you show up fully for others. By reflecting on what works, setting clear goals, and planning for obstacles, you can create a year filled with balance, energy, and joy.
Australians plan to be more frugal and trim down in 2025, but experts warn meaningful change will take sustained effort.
Comparison website Finder surveyed over 1000 people and found more than 50 per cent were planning to save more, while over a third of Australians had plans to lose weight.
Many have set financial goals including half who plan to save more, 30 per cent who hope to spend less and over 25 per cent who want to reduce expenses as households continue to grapple with cost-of-living pressures.
Almost 40 per cent of respondents said they wanted to eat healthier, while about a third said they wanted to improve fitness or lose weight.
However, Brain and Mind centre director Ian Hickie said most New Year resolutions were a waste of time because people are hardwired to enjoy pleasure.
“People underrate how difficult it is to achieve changes in their behaviour,” he said.
“All the short-term things we have are all pleasurable and fun and easy to do, and all the better things are hard, not much fun with not much enjoyment.”
He said it’s easy for someone to say they will eat better or give up drinking but the key to success is having groups of people who want to do it with them.
“When your individual motivation died out ... somebody else says, ‘no, no, we’re getting out of bed or we’re going to the gym again’.
“Because if you try to do it alone, the evidence shows us you give up about two days in ... and they are back to where they were.”
At least 20 per cent of Australians are planning to head overseas, and five per cent said they would move interstate or overseas in the year ahead.
Other resolutions included more rest, improving work-life balance and renovating the home.
Many Australians will prioritise their physical and mental wellbeing in the coming year, Finder’s head of consumer research Graham Cooke said.
“Prioritising sleep and striving for a healthier work-life balance can significantly enhance productivity, performance and overall life satisfaction.”
He said meaningful change would take time and reminded people to celebrate the small wins with consistent effort.
Modern design and community living
Googong 2 Roselawn Avenue
Located in the heart of the Googong community, 2 Roselawn Avenue o ers a modern home and land package with approved plans, making it a great value choice for families seeking a blend of convenience and sustainable living.
Googong is a thoughtfully designed, master-planned community just 10 km south of Queanbeyan and 15 km from Canberra. The area is known for its eco-conscious features, including a water recycling system and conservation areas to protect local wildlife. Residents enjoy excellent amenities, such as schools, shopping centres, and recreational spaces, all integrated into the town’s design.
The property itself is designed with
functionality and modern family living in mind. It features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, creating a spacious and connected heart of the home. The alfresco area enhances the indoor-outdoor flow, perfect for entertaining. The floor plan includes three bedrooms, with the master suite o ering privacy, an ensuite, and a walk-in wardrobe. Additional features include a dedicated study, a large garage, and a separate lounge, providing plenty of space for both relaxation and productivity.
Combining modern design, eco-friendly initiatives, and a strong sense of community, this property o ers the ideal balance of comfort and sustainability, making it a perfect home for
families seeking a forward-thinking lifestyle in a prime location.
View Contact agent
Agent Hamid Muradi Mob 0424 858 600
Meet Kate & Bushy
Kate and Bushy are a renowned real estate team in both the Canberra and rural lifestyle markets, known for their unique combination of skills and nearly two decades of experience. Their focus on understanding and prioritising the people behind every home has led them to successfully close over a thousand deals combined, earning them a reputation for exceptional service and results. Their philosophy and purpose of doing great work for good people drives the success of their repeat and referral sales business.
If you’re thinking about making a move in the new year, chat with Kate and Bushy to find out how they will get you there .
KATE BILLSON
0417 514 045
GRAHAM BUSH
0427 225 823
graham@windroseproperty.com.au
kate@windroseproperty.com.au WINDROSEPROPERTY.COM.AU
Available soon, this modern light 2-bedroom home includes:
• Generous open plan living space opening onto balcony
• Modern kitchen with granite benchtops, user friendly appliances and dishwasher
• Large master bedroom with plenty of built-in storage
• Large accessible bathroom, a powder room and internal laundry
• Reverse cycle air-conditioning and heating for year-round comfort
• Internal access to garage
• Smart metering and community solar power to reduce your energy footprint, and cost of living
• Emergency buttons connected to on site staff 24 hours a day
Our residents love calling Bellerive Village home – and you will too.
Our relaxed, contemporary retirement village makes it easy for you to make the most of every day. Ditch the mower and enjoy the social community, neighbours you know, and your own home without the time-consuming maintenance. We’ll even change the lightbulbs.
For your day-to-day needs, Bellerive’s conveniently located close to the Canberra Hospital and the heart of Woden, home to Westfield, the bus interchange and many of Canberra’s premier clubs.
34/70 Little River Road, Braidwood
THE HOME:
• Located in Summerfield Over 55s estate
• Brand new beautifully crafted home
• Passive solar build with north facing sunroom
• 6.6kW solar system * 5000 litre rainwater tank
• 185m2 in area
• All fully disabled compliant
• Ducted and zoned air-conditioning
• Heated indoor pool * gym * clubhouse
Jane Mackenzie-Ross 0400 472 577
janemross@atrealty.com.au
Private Inspection by Appointment
SUMMERFIELD FACILITIES INCLUDE:
• Heated Indoor Swimming Pool
• Clubhouse and Function Room
• Gymnasium
• Arts and Craft Centre
• Lake, Jetty and BBQ Area
Summerfield is a thriving community of 56 homes set on 8 acres. Overlooking heritage listed countryside on three sides, you will have a brand new sustainable home in a township everyone knows and loves.
35/70 Little River Road, Braidwood
THE HOME:
• Stunning vaulted ceiling in living area
• Double tandem garage with back roller door
• Soft-close kitchen cabinetry with stone benches
• 6.6kW solar system
• 5000 litre rainwater tank
• 187m2 in area
• All fully disabled compliant
• Ducted & zone air-conditioning
Jane Mackenzie-Ross 0400 472 577
janemross@atrealty.com.au
Private Inspection by Appointment
SUMMERFIELD FACILITIES INCLUDE:
• Heated Indoor Swimming Pool
• Clubhouse and Function Room
• Gymnasium
• Arts and Craft Centre
• Lake, Jetty and BBQ Area
Summerfield is a thriving community of 56 homes set on 8 acres. Overlooking heritage listed countryside on three sides, you will have a brand new sustainable home in a township everyone knows and loves.
real estate property news
ACT home values decline slightly in 2024
The ACT property market experienced modest changes in 2024, with overall dwelling values dipping slightly by -0.4%, remaining 6.8% below the record highs set in May 2022. A decline of 2.9% in unit values was the primary drag on growth, while house values edged up by 0.4% over the year.
Among Canberra’s sub-regions, Molonglo recorded the strongest performance with a 2.3% annual increase in property values, followed by Tuggeranong, which rose by 1.6%. Gungahlin was the weakest market, with values falling by 3.2%, while South Canberra saw a 1.7% decline.
In positive news for the rental market, Canberra rents posted a slight recovery in the December quarter, rising by 0.6% after a 0.9% dip in the previous quarter.
CoreLogic’s national data
revealed a similar softening, with home values declining by -0.1% in December, ending a period of steady growth seen since early 2023. Three of the capitals recorded a decline in values over the year; Melbourne (-3.0%), Hobart (-0.6%) and the ACT. At the other end of the spectrum were the mid-sized capitals, with Perth values surging 19.1% higher over the year, Adelaide up 13.1% and Brisbane values 11.2% higher. Although the mid-sized capitals recorded double-digit annual growth in 2024, it is clear these markets have passed their peak rate of growth.
While the ACT’s overall performance remained subdued, local trends varied significantly by region, highlighting the importance of understanding market dynamics at a neighbourhood level.
50 Burton Street, Bombala
The majestic grandeur and classic opulence of Stradone can’t help but turn heads
• 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms (1 upstairs, 1.5 downstairs)
• Large open kitchen and dining room, sunken living with slow combustion heating
• Modern conservatory with French doors and reverse cycle air conditioning
• Rumpus room with private patio
• Beautiful pressed metal ceilings
• Sweeping verandah around two sides
• Established trees and gardens
• Paved driveway around to single carport
• Short stroll to the main shopping centre/centre of town
Once in a lifetime properties of this stature come on the market, now is the time to make Stradone yours. Auction 18/02/2025 11am at Bombala Golf Club Inspections By appointment
Christine
Christine.mcintosh@nh.com.au
Nutrien Harcourts Bombala
Trades & Services Guide
Trades & Services Guide
TIL I N G
LOCAL TILING ACT
All suburbs
For all your tiling needs:
Bathroom, Laundry and Kitchen tiling
Walls and oors tiling
Bathroom Renovations
No job too big or small
Water proo ng shower leaks
Call Alex today 0475 000 528
localtilingact@hotmail.com
Antoniak Tiling and Renovations
Email: Bantoniak051@gmail.com | 0417 092 760
Brodie Antoniak
Owner and contractor
ABN 14724243822
Reference available on request
U P H O LST E RY
Sometimes in today’s modern world we can forget the beauty in artisanal craftsmanship. Get in touch to start your dream project today.
✓ Re-Upholstery & Restorations
✓ Custom-Made Furniture
✓ Commercial Fit-Outs
✓ Bedheads and Wall Upholstery
Call or email us today! 0422 073 665 / 6181 3511 toni@twinstitchupholstery.com.au
Get visibility of your business. Register today in the Trades & Services Guide, call CW on 6175 8800.
WIN! We Live in Time (M) double passes
Almut (Florence Pugh) and Tobias (Andrew Garfield) are brought together in a surprise encounter that changes their lives. Through snapshots of their life together – falling for each other, building a home, becoming a family – a di cult truth is revealed that rocks its foundation. As they embark on a path challenged by the limits of time, they learn to cherish each moment of the unconventional route their love story has taken, in filmmaker John Crowley’s decade-spanning, deeply moving romance. In Cinemas 16 January.
WIN! Pilot pens prize packs
Get back to school and work with Pilot Frixion erasable pens and markers! There’s nothing like smart new stationery to get organised for the new school and work year ahead. With FriXion erasable pens and markers, you can erase messy mistakes and start again without a trace for neat work every time. Choose from smooth gel ink, colourful felt-tips and versatile highlighters to create the perfect pencil case collection. Win a set of FriXion and a bullet journalling starter kit RRP $152. CW has three prize packs to be won! FriXion products are available at O ceworks, Big W, Amazon, major retailers and independent stationery suppliers, RRP $3.15-$6.55 each. For further information, visit pilotpen.com.au
Enter to win!
To enter, scan the QR code or visit canberradaily.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Friday 17 January 2025 and winners drawn same day. One entry per person per giveaway. Entrants must be aged 18+.
