Canberra CityNews April 9-15, 2009

CityNews April 9-15 

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CityNews April 9-15

news

Police step up city presence

By Jorian Gardner

POLICE have stepped up their patrols in the central Civic area, including at least one targeted uniform and plain-clothed swoop on the area by members of the ACT Policing Beat Team that resulted in more than 20 arrests and formal cautions.

This follows community concerns, raised by “CityNews” (“Disgrace of Garema Place” March 5), about the lack of visible policing and trouble in the city centre, especially around Garema Place, City Walk and the bus interchange.

Business owners had complained about the behaviour of loitering young people.

Peter Barclay, owner of King O’Malley’s pub, wedged in between the bus interchange and Garema Place – right in the middle of the trouble – says he has noticed a heightened police presence during the second half of March and early April.

“I have definitely seen more police on the streets in Civic in the last month,” Mr Barclay said. “They are doing a very tough job and doing it well at the moment.”

Police have confirmed that extra officers have been added to their Civic teams and were especially targeting anti-social behaviour.

An Action Buses employee, who did not wish to be named, told “CityNews” that he had also noticed increased policing of the area around the bus interchange.

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“Without a doubt there has been more police in Civic during March and their response times to any calls we have made also seem to have been fine-tuned – they are getting here really quick when trouble starts,” he said.

“CityNews” can reveal that as recently as Friday, March 20, a targeted operation was undertaken in the Civic area, with uniformed and plain-clothed members of the Beat Team conducting targeted patrols throughout the evening.

As a result of the operation, two men were arrested for theft offences while a further two men are to appear in court at a later date on charges relating to stolen property.

An additional 18 people were formally cautioned during the operation, including 17 for possessing/consuming alcohol in a prescribed public place, and one for possessing a knife.

“ACT Policing regularly reviews resources to ensure that police are delivering an efficient and effective policing service to members of the Canberra public and police listen to advice and information from members of the public and direct resources to particular areas to ensure that community concerns are addressed,” a spokesperson for ACT Police said.

However, Rod Howell, owner of the Bookmart in Garema Place, is less sure about policing of the area during the day.

“I have seen police on bicycles, and I haven’t seen them in a while, but that’s about it,” Mr Howell said.

15-16 22 16 16-17 22 8 15 4 23-32 12-13 22 20-21

Wine winner: The winner of the “CityNews” Canberra district wine competition (two dozen bottles valued at $500) is Philip Henry, of Florey.

General manager: Greg Jones 0419 418196, greg@citynews.com.au Advertising sales executives: Melissa Delfino, 0415 137660 Jonathan Hick, 0415 177345 Sebastien Kriegel, 0438 198701 Advertising sales co-ordinator: Nick Garfoot, 6262 9100, ad@citynews.com.au Sydney advertising sales: Ad Sales Connect, 02 9439 9929 Adelaide advertising sales: HWR Media, 08 8379 9522 Perth advertising sales: HWR Media, 08 9429 3075 Front cover: Real estate legend Philip Kouvelis. Profile Page 6. Photo by Silas.

An artist’s impression of the new, split-level terminal.

Airport grows for growth CANBERRA Airport is to invest $350 million in what is “the biggest private sector investment that this town has ever seen,” managing director Stephen Byron told “CityNews”.

Passenger numbers through the airport are expected to rise from the current three million a year to 7.2 million by 2029.

“We have worked very hard with our banks to build a level of confidence and this has come from the fact that we have been able to effectively drought-proof the airport from the economic downturn through our investment in the airport’s business park.

“We have wanted to build a spectacular new terminal since we came to the airport 11 years ago, but now is the time and, in four years, we will have the best facility in the country and one that will provide the best-possible experience for travellers we can offer.

“With a regional coach terminal, indoor taxi ranks – a first in Australia – the new-look airport will be a true, integrated transport hub for Canberra.

The project will create 1350 new jobs during the construction phase.

“These are tough times, and we are committed to the community – we use local contractors and subbies – and that is not just a one off, it is for the life of the four-year project,” Mr Byron said.

The project includes three new aircraft parking positions, two structured car parks (1200 undercover spaces each) and two new terminals; the southern terminal, which will begin construction now and a western terminal, to be started late 2010.

There will be double the number of check-in counters (from 17 to 44), triple the current baggage capacity and a two-storey roadside drop off and pick up system with departures on the upper level and arrivals on the lower level.

The project will allow the airport to have a dedicated international capability with customs, immigration and quarantine facilities.

–Jorian Gardner

Phone 6262 9100 Fax 6262 9111 GPO Box 2448, Canberra City 2601 Editor: Ian Meikle ed@citynews.com.au Senior writer & arts editor: Jorian Gardner, 0415 516286 Lifestyle editor: Megan Haggan, 0411 045592 lifestyle@citynews.com.au Arts writer: Helen Musa, 0413 466121 Design and photography: Silas Brown, 0412 718086 Designer: Joran Dilucian Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler accounts@citynews.com.au

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Six-month audit to September 30, 2008 Responsibility for election comment is taken by Ian Meikle, of Suite 1, Level 1, 143 London Circuit, Canberra.

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politics

Not happy, Jon, says Assembly CHIEF Minister Jon Stanhope was upset recently because other members of the Assembly were telling him that he could not use taxpayers’ money for political advertising. And he really wants to!

At the last ACT election, the Stanhope Labor Government used millions of dollars of taxpayers’ money telling us what a great job they had done in areas such as health, education and municipal services.

When Opposition Leader, Zed Seselja introduced the Government Agencies (Campaign Advertising) Bill 2008 in December he said it was “a real tool that can actually bring some restraint to this practice and accountability to the people”. He went on to add that it would apply “the strength of statutory regulation” to force governments to meet standards and be subject to independent scrutiny. The independent scrutiny that has been nominated is the Auditor-General. The role of this office is to scrutinise public spending and is an excellent choice.

The Assembly has now passed the Bill “in principle” and in the recent debate, the Chief Minister was clearly disturbed, describing it as “a Bill in which every clause is absurd, ridiculous or redundant” and that it was “deliberately crafted to create confusion and uncertainty.”

The joys of minority government – he was not getting his own way! And the result was akin to a tantrum.

Under the legislation, the government will have to develop and adhere to guidelines that are consistent with the Act. As subordinate legislation, these guidelines will be disallowable and able to be amended in the Assembly. They should also allow governments to run sensible campaigns in areas

Politics

By Michael Moore

Chief Minister Jon Stanhope… He was in an acerbic mood calling it a “politically motivated Bill”.

Photo by Silas. that improve health or community safety.

In principle, this is good legislation. However, the Assembly has referred it to a Committee to determine if the Opposition has the detail right. It is the detail that was attacked by Mr Stanhope, who argued that the legislation will have unintended consequences.

He was in an acerbic mood calling it a “politically motivated Bill” and describing it as “sloppy, lazy and ill-conceived”. He also included “cheap

points” and accused Mr Seselja of being “hazy” before attacking him about the Liberal Party result at the last election. This is Jon Stanhope the projectionist: inflicting his own concerns about himself on to others. He was the one that led the Labor Party to the loss of a significant proportion of the vote and the loss of its majority status – it is just that the voter dissatisfaction did not transfer to the Liberals.

And Labor’s poor showing in the polls was despite the large sums spent on politically motivated advertising with taxpayers’ money.

Now the Assembly can have the opportunity to examine it in the quiet light of day and to ensure that it does what it is intended to do – to prevent the expenditure by governments of taxpayers’ money to assist in their own political agenda. No doubt the Select Committee on Campaign Advertising will have the opportunity to improve the mechanisms in the Bill, but the Committee members should not lose sight of the important goals and aims of the legislation.

The public now has the opportunity to make representation to the Committee. The legislation also provides an opportunity for the ACT to show some leadership, with or without Jon Stanhope and his Labor colleagues.

Michael Moore is a former independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and minister for health.

Park to get CBD touch

WEST Row Park is the latest target for improvement by Canberra CBD Limited.

CEO Linda Staite said the businessesinspired organisation wanted to “give new life to the park and also make the plants in it sustaining”. A tender process was underway.

CBD administers a levy on property owners in Civic to improve and rejuvenate the city centre.

For example, Ms Staite said the colourful planters, which popped up all over Civic attached to poles late last year, had made a huge improvement to the look of the city over the last few months.

“We have also been cleaning up all the garbage areas – skips and so on – that are lurking in lane-ways around the city. The new Civic ranger has been doing a great job getting rid of all old pallets, trays etc that clutter up back areas needlessly. It may not be sexy, but it’s necessary work!” she said.

“Also we are looking at new, modern signage, possibly electronic attached to lamp poles across the CBD.” However, one of the biggest projects is to come up with a plan to invigorate the look and functionality of the iconic Sydney and Melbourne buildings.

“A study is under-way at the moment as to what we can do with these buildings and will be ready by July,” Ms Staite said. “We should have something quite significant to say by early August.”

–Jorian Gardner

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holiday travel

Why Mr Kouvelis can’t help himself

Staying safe on the roads

THE holidays are a time for family, rest and relaxation, says Tony Gill, director of Roads ACT in Territory and Municipal Services. But it is also a time of travel…

“They used to call me the ‘Golden Greek’ when I was younger – now they call me the ‘Grey Greek’!” JORIAN GARDNER comes face to face with the irrepressible Philip Kouvelis.

WHEN I congratulate Philip Kouvelis on his 30 years in the real estate business, he is quick to correct me. “Thirty years at my office that is”, he says. “I was another six years at a real estate agent before I opened my doors on July 20, 1979 – so 36 all up. I don’t want to sell myself short!”

When it comes to Philip, that’s never likely to happen. And however long it’s been, it’s been a long time and that’s a lot of properties bought and sold for this veteran of Canberra real estate: one of the city’s best-known, silver-haired “charmers”.

“They used to call me the ‘Golden Greek’ when I was younger – now they call me the ‘Grey Greek’!” he says with a laugh.

Kouvelis is a proud Canberran who loves the city he has seen change so rapidly “especially over the last decade” and also a proud man of Greek heritage.

“My father first came to Australia in about 1914 and later opened five or six picture theatres and an open air-theatre in Wagga, throughout the 1930s. He came to Cooma in 1950 and opened a hotel, where I was born and then I came to Canberra in 1961. So I am an entrenched Canberran. I love it. I have often thought about liv-

ing somewhere else, but everything I have ever done has been in Canberra, so why would I? “But there is a saying I love: That Canberra was designed by Americans, built by the Italians and owned by the Greeks. It may sound funny, but it’s true! We came here with nothing and built ourselves up. The Greeks buy property – they don’t sell it. The Greek community seems to have the hunger, to seize on the opportunities, I guess, and have a go!”

And have a go, the now-Grey Greek has. He describes himself as a “single-minded real estate career man” and says that while the money Philip Kouvelis… “I just love selling houses and if has been good over the years, it’s the sale that I ever lose the passion then I won’t be doing it.”

Photo by Silas. still excites him.

“The sale is more important than the cash. I And I will do it for many different types of charijust love selling houses and if I ever lose the pas- ties, my favourite being the Red Cross Ball, but sion then I won’t be doing it. I really enjoy what I am happy to do everything, too – I will gladly I do – it’s a great attribute to have.” do the school fete!

One of the ways he shows his proud commu“It is just great to meet people and also, surnity connections is through his regular work prisingly, helps you to have the confidence to do as a charity auctioneer, something he says that the job that you do. Because my job is about marholds a special place in his heart. keting yourself well; getting yourself out there “I do a lot of charity auctions; I would have – when people think real estate, I want them to raised more than $1.5 million over the years. think Mr Kouvelis!”

“HOLIDAY travel increases the volume of vehicles on our roads and highways, with drivers often travelling long distances for long periods on unfamiliar roads,” Mr Gill said.

“Driving can be dangerous enough, even without the added threat of careless behaviour such as speeding, drink driving and driving while fatigued.”

Speed was a key contributor to road crashes, Mr Gill said.

“Even going 5kms over the posted speed limit increases the risk of a crash and adds to the severity if one should occur.”

Another significant contributor to road crashes was driver fatigue. “Take a break if travelling more than two hours. Use roadside rest stops or share your driving to help avoid fatigue,” he said.

A third concern was driver distraction.

“A mobile phone call, a conversation with a passenger or even using your music system are some of the driver distractions which can mean that a driver makes a fatal error,” Mr Gill said.

“Drivers need to be vigilant and be prepared to stop and deal with a problem, rather than risk getting the driving wrong.”

Mr Gill also warned against driving if we have been enjoying alcohol.

“Choose alternative transport options or arrange a designated driver. Don’t drink and drive.”

Never mind the blame, we’ve moved on!

I BLAME Lionel Murphy.

When the Whitlam Government’s Attorney General introduced “no fault” divorce in the 1970s he started a process that has eaten away at the very roots of our social values.

The immediate effect was that it suddenly became unfashionable to blame men for junking their marriage vows and taking their pleasures elsewhere. So, of course, they did. The result was a generation of broken homes, scarred children and “blended” families as the divorce rate went through the roof. (Today the divorce rate is settling down a little, but that’s mainly because fewer couples are choosing to marry. But I digress.)

The point is that Mr Murphy gave “blame” a bad name and thereafter we have gone to evergreater lengths to avoid it. In fact, almost without realising it we are becoming a “blameless” society where no one takes responsibility for

CityNews April 9-15

THE GADFLY

By Robert Macklin anything.

How often, for example, have you heard a politician – with his serious face on – intone ‘‘there is no silver bullet” available to him to resolve the problem for which he’s nominally responsible.

What he’s telling us is that he’s too dumb or gutless to come up with a solution. But we have to let that go “through to the keeper” because, you see, no one is to blame.

It’s not only politicians. Sports commentators have become infected with the same disease. How long is it since you heard a TV cricket commen-

tator say: “What a dumb shot”, or “That appeal was a damned disgrace”? (And there have been plenty of dumb shots and disgraceful appeals, believe me.) But no, they say: “Oh dear, he’ll be disappointed with that.”

Disappointed! The idiot’s nerve has crumbled; he’s backed away outside his leg stump, slogged at a half volley and been clean-bowled middle stump. “Oh,” they say, “his captain won’t be happy with that.”

Happy?! His captain should spear him through the heart with a rusty stump… but no, that would offend his delicate sensibilities with “blame”.

Then there’s the butcher who has poisoned people with salmonella or the railway boss whose train has broken down in the middle of the Harbour Bridge or the Quarantine Service that has allowed horse flu into the country – do any of them actually take the blame? No, no, they

say, “the important thing is that we’ve learned lessons and it’s time to move on.”

No it isn’t. It’s time to take the blame. It’s time to be shamed and sacked and slammed in the pokie. And that’s just Australia. Truth is, the contagion has spread worldwide. Take those New York bankers who have wrecked the world economy with their grasping greed, who have destroyed our superannuation, thrown millions out of work and brought heartache to homes around the globe – are we naming and blaming them? Are they being carted off to jail? Are they even being interrogated?

The answer, I reckon, is a coil of rope and a lamp post – the one at the corner of Wall Street and Broadway would do just fine.

I mean, who’d blame us? robert@robertmacklin.com

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IF YOU SPEED IT’S OVER. IF YOU DRINK & DRIVE IT’S OVER. IF YOU DRIVE WHEN TIRED IT’S OVER. PLEASE DON’T GO OVER. You’re responsible for the lives of everyone in your vehicle. Remember when you drive this holiday season, prepare for your journey with a good night’s rest and ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Slow down, drive according to the road and weather conditions, and don’t drink and drive.

Make your holiday a memorable one—for all the right reasons.

CityNews April 9-15

letters

Family Law Matters

Superannuation in property settlements For years the Family Court has been able to divide the superannuation entitlements of separated spouses as part of property settlements—called ‘superannuation splitting’. The Court can now divide the entitlements of eligible de facto couples.

Do the laws apply to me?

If separated from your spouse or divorced, yes.

If your de facto relationship ended after 1 March 2009, yes. If your de facto relationship ended before 1 March 2009, you can only receive a share of your ex-partner’s super if he/she agrees.

What is the process? Must it involve the Court?

You need to obtain information from the super fund’s Trustee using a ‘Request for Superannuation’ form. You will likely need a valuer to determine the value of the entitlements for family law purposes.

If parties agree about a super split, the Court does not need to be involved. You can send a Superannuation Agreement to the Trustee to implement. However, if you are also dealing with other property matters, you may want to enter into a Consent Order which you lodge with the Court for approval and then send to the Trustee.

If you and your ex spouse cannot agree on a super split, you can apply to the Court for a super split order. The same applies to de facto couples separated after 1 March 2009.

It sounds complicated…

It can be and you need legal advice. Super is treated differently to other assets in property settlements because, often, it cannot be accessed for many years. Also, super splitting is not mandatory and each case must be assessed on its merits.

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Shoe check annoys, too AS an older woman fed up to the teeth with having to remove my lace-up shoes at the airport security gates and finding nowhere to sit on the other side to put them on again and re-lace them, I couldn’t agree more with John Schumann (“CityNews”, April 2).

If, as has been reported, the bikie altercation started on the plane, why weren’t security guards summoned by the crew to escort them off? Secure? I don’t think so.

Margaret Lee, Hawker

Keep drug prohibition MAY I joust with your columnist Michael Moore regarding his criticism of drug prohibition (“CityNews”, April 2)? The current illegal-drug strategy in Australia has been framed to take into account a very liberal ideology that does not look unfavourably on decriminalisation of many illegal drugs. Sweden threw out this liberal policy 20-plus years ago, which explains why UN drug reports continue to show Sweden near the bottom of the drug-use table, and Australia near the top.

Mr Moore claims the greater the policing success the higher the [drug] price.

In the car trade the price is exactly what keeps 99 per cent of us from being able to buy a Ferrari. Not having a Ferrari won’t kill us and, by analogy, fewer will buy drugs and fewer will die. Mr Moore also states: “The current prohibition is vigorously driven by the US”. Let’s be grateful!

Why? Because, in contrast, that country’s laws on prohibition of guns are virtually non-existent, and regarded internationally as a disgrace – the result being over 10,000 gunshot deaths annually. Prohibition must be strengthened if we are to stop our youth getting killer drugs as easily as American youth can get guns.

Colliss Parrett, Barton

Moore is misleading I JUST read Michael Moore’s article “Fielding’s Alcopop Flop” (“CityNews”, March 26) and, while I normally enjoy reading your articles, I find this one to be pushing the boundaries of free speech.

I feel that Mr Moore’s piece is mislead-

ing given weight by the disclaimer presented before it. Being the CEO of the Public Health Association of Australia is admirable, and being former ACT health minister is all well and good, but how long ago was that? How much contact did he have with alcopops and the alcopops tax? Where were the figures supporting his claim of “less harm”? Where was the percentage reduction in binge drinking, or alcohol-related incidents in the target demographic?

While Mr Moore is supposedly an authority on the political aspect of this legislation, his piece has no heart.

It isn’t hard to understand Mr Moore’s stance – it is shared by many adults and politicians because they only see figures and percentages. But Moore’s percentages are irresponsibly couched in pseudo-fact and uncontextualised figures, a cold, unfeeling and above all crude abstraction of the people involved, people that will tell you the same thing: the alcopops tax didn’t work.

Dave Ellis (age 23), via email

To the Heads, Robert! it is some years since I’ve seen a column

by Robert Macklin (“CityNews”, March 26). Mr Macklin’s belief in male proprietorship of women clearly remains as strong as ever. Hence, Jeremy owns Jemima and Shirley is “Ted’s ‘good woman’”.

The sooner this dinosaur moves to Tuross Head and stays there, the better.

Patricia Saunders, Chapman

Wrapped and delighted THIS year Vision Australia’s Myer Gift Wrap fund-raiser raised more than $78,000 to support Australians who are blind or have low vision.

On behalf of Vision Australia, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in Canberra who helped make this annual fund-raiser such an overwhelming success. Your local stores raised more than $4200 towards the total.

I’d especially like to thank the volunteers who generously gave their time at such a busy time of year – we couldn’t have done it without you.

The money you have helped to raise will be put to great use. For example, $35 will help pay for a white cane, $81 will buy a book title for our national library service and $134 pays for a Braille training session for one.

Gerard Menses, CEO, Vision Australia

I WISH to comment on Jorian Gardner’s article (“CityNews”, March 26) “Stanhope sits tight on shock report”.

In addressing the Assembly resolution requesting that the Chief Minister table the “Costello Report”, Mr Stanhope stated: “The impact of the Assembly’s resolution goes to the heart of the relationship between the executive and the legislature in the ACT, and to core issues of responsible government and Cabinet confidentiality in this jurisdiction”.

The two concepts of “Cabinet confidentiality” and “responsible government” are poles apart. The Chief Minister selects members of the executive from his political friends and allies. “Cabinet confidentially” serves to bond the executive in a pact of secrecy which enables its members to get up to all sorts of undemocratic mischief that the public does not get to hear about. I would have thought that “responsible government” was located in the legislature, which is at least elected in comparison to the executive, which is really an old boys’ and girls’ club.

Mr Stanhope’s somewhat ambiguous statement linking “responsible government” with “Cabinet solidarity”, gives the erroneous impression that responsible government is somehow magically guaranteed by Cabinet solidarity and confidentiality. Given these polarities, any relationship between the executive and the legislature would most likely be cantankerous or tokenistic and “responsible government” would be the first casualty.

Caroline Ambrus, author of “Capital Tyranny – Governance Gone Wrong”

Cornwell points the way GREG Cornwell’s thoughtful article “Fixed terms would freshen the Assembly” (“CityNews”, April 2) deserves attention and positive action by the ACT Assembly.

As Mr Cornwell highlights so logically in his concluding paragraph, 12 years tenure is both adequate and fair. Parties and the electorate should embrace the cleansing and replacement process. Mr Cornwell has pointed the way.

Harold Grant, Campbell

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You could spend days relaxing there, saving your energy for adventures north to rainforests, out to the Great Barrier Reef or Magnetic Island, just 25 minutes away by regular, fast cat ferries.

There are fabulous dive sites just offshore and on dry land you can explore Charters Towers or Wallaman Falls and return in plenty of time for dinner on The Strand.

Magnetic Island is nestled in the Great Barrier Reef. The contrasting landscape of this World Heritage-listed island makes it distinctive: Rocky headlands fuse with 23 bays and beaches with sprawling hiking trails to enjoy the views. Or bask in the tranquil waters of the secluded beaches or snorkel along the reef and explore the shipwreck trail.

Two thirds of Magnetic Island is national park with secluded but easily accessible bays and golden beaches. The island has nearly 25 kilometres of walking tracks meandering through the protected national parks which are home to stands of eucalypts, more than 2500 free-roaming koalas and 166 different species of wildlife.

The island comprises self-contained accommodation as well as backpacker hostels. There are a vast range of activities available including: boat trips around the island, parasailing, Harley Davidson tours, water sports, golf, diving expeditions, jet skiing, great fishing, horse riding, and moke hire are all available.

Getting to Townsville and Magnetic Island is easy with Virgin Blue’s new, daily, non-stop serv-

ices from Canberra. Blue Holidays, the holiday program of Virgin Blue, is offering a great special to both destinations to celebrate the launch of the new services. Holidays to Townsville include return airfares, three nights’ accommodation and breakfast from $696pp*. Holidays to Magnetic Island include return airfares, three nights’ accommodation and transfers from $771pp*.

Visit virginblue.com.au/townsvilleholidays or call Blue Holidays on 13 15 16.

Terms & Conditions: *Price per person twin share. Subject to change and subject to availability. Packages valid for sale until May 31, 2009, valid for travel until July 31, 2009.

*Departing Canberra. Prices based on per person, twin share. Seats are limited and may not be available at peak times or on all flights. Package price is per person twin share and is correct as at Apr 1, 2009. Package on sale from May 31, 2009 for travel until Jul 31, 2009. During some periods air and hotel pricing may not be available and surcharges may apply. Prices are subject to availability and are not guaranteed until the booking is completed and confirmed. Full payment is required at the time of booking and cancellation or amendment fees apply. Package pricing is based on web bookings or $40 more per person by phone. A credit card service fee of 1.5% of the total package price is applicable. Prices based on direct route, including taxes, levies and other government charges which may vary and are subject to change. Seasonal

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attractions New, direct flights go north and south

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VIRGIN Blue is increasing its presence in the Canberra market and has launched two new direct flights from the nation’s capital.

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The new flights will complement Virgin Blue’s existing flights from Canberra to Brisbane (four a day), Melbourne (six a day), Gold Coast (once daily) Adelaide (once daily) and Sydney (eight a day) and represent an increase of 10 per cent in frequency to the Canberra market.

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JUST imagine a couple of lazy days enjoying the sights and attractions of tropical Townsville – there’s swimming, diving, sightseeing and the Great Barrier Reef to experience.

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chill out in the warm tropics. townsville & magnetic island holidays.

Now Virgin Blue flies non-stop from Canberra to Townsville, it’s easy to escape to the tropics whenever you want. Townsville is your gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, lush rainforests, historic gold mining towns, and of course Magnetic Island, just 25 minutes away. Swap your winter woolies for blue skies, warm days and beautiful, balmy nights. Book with Blue Holidays now at virginblue.com.au/townsvilleholidays or call 13 15 16.

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CumminsNitro © VIR 1561/CCNdps

scene At the Malkara charity high tea, Government House

Carolyn Bristow and Danielle Neale

Sarah Kelly and Nicole Dimoff

Monica Kovacova and Veselinka Ivanova

Rosemary Thompson, Wally Perfect and Joy Robertson

Myriam Rivetti and Lisa Tremopoulos

Anna Karelas, Christina Vois and Effie Kasimatis

At Young Entrepreneurs Networking Group, Pro-Fit

Jenny Tiffen and Rose Males

Cha eparing a Hawk pr

r ir Sniffe

New CLUB LOUNGE now open

Socrates Mechanicos and Katrina Kounnas

Matt Ferrari, Zoe Vogel and Jon McGrath

At the Myer Ladies’ Day, Thoroughbred Park

THE FULLY RENOVATED CLUB LOUNGE SETS A NEW STYLE STANDARD FOR CANBERRA A sophisticated and discreet atmosphere makes Club Lounge the perfect place to catch up with friends, impress clients and visitors or to have a celebratory drink or meal. Drop by after work, enjoy fine company and try one of our politically incorrect CLUB LOUNGE Cocktails. They include Leadership Challenge, Working Families, Chair Sniffer, Scumbag, Memoirs, Brasnapper, $7 Stroganoff, Double Dissolution and are complimented by tempting tapas and piano bar entertainment.

Hayley Richmont, Christine McDougall, Elinor Lascelles, Lisa Brotherson and Wendy Willing

6239 couchcreative.com.au

SOCIAL MEMBERSHIP NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST TIME – JUST $75.

BUT BE QUICK! VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE DETAILS

12 CityNews April 9-15

16 National Circuit, Barton ACT 2600 | Telephone 6121 2199

www.npc.org.au

Amy Rodrick and Vanessa Lau

Tracey Brennan and Claire Crocker

Erin Molan and Catalina Florez

More photos at www.citynews.com.au

At the National Portrait Gallery’s launch of ‘Friendspace’

Alex Dewar, Jessica Casbey and Sybilla Grady

Mel and Shed White with Sass and Bide's Heidi Middleton and David Edghill

Sass and Bide's Sarah-Jane Clarke and Kat Circuit

Stephanie Allan and Justine Fardell

John and Sue Reilly

Mack Wilcox, Amelia Lester and Desmond Portman

Tara and Adam Feeney

Natalie Kokic Schmidt and Hannah Moore

Natalie Nation with Alain and Aline Thammavong

Cherie and Tony Radovanovic, Jan Batho and Ken Archer Lisa Ridgley and Renee Shearer

Jacqui Davidson, Jemma Johnston, Mel Moss and Sian Jowitt

Yvonne and Rebecca Pino

More photos from this event, Page 30

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CityNews April 9-15  13

advertising feature

Lollypotz

Louise gets Lollypotz off to ‘dream’ start HAD anyone told Louise Curtis six years ago that she would own two businesses, be the mother of two children and be opening her rst store in NZ, she would have laughed.

But here she is into her sixth year as owner of Hamperesque, Canberra’s online gift and corporate hamper supplier, and now opening her second business, Lollypotz.

Lollypotz are a collection of chocolate and confectionery bouquets styled like a bouquet of owers and presented in different ways from boxes to pots and hand-held bouquets. In some cases, they also include alcohol.

The chocolate bouquets are not new to Louise.

Her other business, Hamperesque, had been making them for around 18 months. However, last year Louise decided to include some Christmas-themed chocolate bouquets in her Christmas catalogue.

“It was unbelievable,” she said. “We actually had to remove them from our range and our website before the end of November as we were totally inundated.”

It got Louise thinking and she realised that if she revamped the range, it could be a whole new business on its own and more. She decided not only to start the new business, but also to build a national brand and franchise it throughout Australia.

“Employing the services of a franchising consultant has been the best thing we have done,” said Louise.

“The opportunities which are now being presented to us are what you dream about being in business for.”

Louise said that in the three months since com-

ing up with the idea, Lollypotz had sold three territories in NSW and the master franchise in NZ, with an Auckland operation opening before the end of June. Negotiations were also taking place with another seven parties around the country.

“One thing Hamperesque has taught us is that our customers want our products, but not just here in Canberra, all around the country,” she said.

“By having a national brand, we can provide exactly the same items on a same-day basis to each capital city and also some regional areas.

“They are a great gift for any occasion, being birthdays, anniversaries, get-well gifts or for corporate/client appreciation.”

She said that another attraction of the Lollypotz system was that it would be taken to regional Australia and offering franchises to mums who were at home looking for a business opportunity.

Since winning her three Telstra Business Awards last year, Louise and her staff of six are forging ahead in a time of economic uncertainty. Louise believes that to a certain extent this business is “recession proof”.

“Gift giving doesn’t stop in a downturn, people are still having birthdays and other events and the chocolate bouquets are a great alternative to owers because they will not die in a couple of days,” she said.

“They may not die in a few days, but if you’re a chocoholic it’s hard to keep them sitting around, either!”

Lollypotz can be found at www.lollypotz.com. au, on 1300 550 270 or at 66 Maryborough Street, Fyshwick.

Louise Curtis… “Gift giving doesn’t stop in a downturn, people are still having birthdays and other events and the chocolate bouquets are a great alternative to owers because they will not die in a couple of days.”

Chocolate Bouquets

Canberra’s newest gift sensation

Australia wide delivery 6/66 Maryborough Street, Fyshwick 14 CityNews April 9-15

CityNews March 5-11

10

citylife

arts | cinema | dining | fashion | home | television | horoscope | crossword

Whore, tart, trollop, Georgina emerges!

By Helen Musa BELL Shakespeare has been billing Georgina Symes an emerging artist, but you’d have to wonder just how much more she needs to emerge. She has a CV a mile long and was last seen in Canberra in 2005 in a national tour commemorating 20th anniversary of Michael Gow’s “Away.”

Symes will be in town from April 24 starring as the provocative trollop Doll Common in the forthcoming production of Ben Jonson’s “The Alchemist” in a co-production between Queensland Theatre Company and Bell Shakespeare, directed by John Bell himself.

It’s Symes’s first production with Bell as part of the team of six performers from the QTC matched by six from Bell.

Some critics have described Doll as “a whore with attitude”, but Symes likes to think of her as a working girl with many faces. A graduate of Dean Carey’s course at the Actors’ Centre in Sydney, Symes is a genuine Queensland girl from the Gold Coast. Her hometown was a possible source for the dextrous Doll, but in the end she preferred to go for the Kings Cross model of the scheming tart.

In this famous 17th century satirical comedy, Doll is part of a trio of “coney-catchers” – confidence tricksters or scammers. Together with her old friend, the housekeeper Face (played

by Andrew Tighe) and his friend Subtle the alchemist, (played by Patrick Dickson) she sets up a racket in the home of the absent Lovewit.

The aesthetic of the show, Symes explains, is to do with face – many faces. She can easily switch from playing a grand lady to the queen of the fairies or a common fishwife, depending on the client. Off-duty, Doll prefers cowboy boots, fishnet stockings and a formidable Amy Winehouse wig, but then again, she spends much of the play dressing up.

Georgina Symes… Some critics have described her role as Doll as “a whore with attitude”.

Symes is having an uproarious time. “The text is so rich,” she says.

“Non-stop hilarity.” It’s two hours and 10 minutes straight through and imaginatively they meld Doll, Subtle and Face into one as they dupe a string of “gulls” or victims such as Dapper, Drugger, and the biggest catch of all, Sir Epicure Mammon, a wealthy client whom Doll successfully tricks and leaves broken-hearted.

“It’s so deliciously ridiculous,” she says, with the physical comedy enhanced by the fact that the gulls keep coming back for more. The set is unusual, like a rehearsal room, with racks of clothes to jump in and out of as the

night progresses and the improbabilities become wilder and wilder.

It’s nothing new for Bell to depart from the works of the Bard. Several years ago, he scored a smash hit with Goldoni’s “A Servant of two Masters”.

Then there was a radical adaptation of Gogol’s “The Government Inspector”. John Bell is certainly not fed up with Shakespeare, but he does argue, “It’s about time we did some of his contemporaries… some of the greats like Ben Jonson – the greatest.”

“The Alchemist”, Canberra Playhouse, April 28-May 9, with previews April 24-25. Bookings, www.canberraticketing.com.au

CINEMA

By Dougal Macdonald

Mary and Max (M) AN “M” rating for a feature using a medium catering mostly to kids is rare, but you’d need to search far and wide to find one better served by that rating than Oscar-winning (best Animated Short Film, 2004) Australian claymation film-maker Adam Elliott’s tale of an improbable friendship.

Mary, five when the story begins, plain and little loved, her best friend a rooster called Ethel, living in a worker’s cottage in Lamington Drive, Melbourne, starts a blind correspondence with New York tenement dweller Max, in his late 40s, obese, blighted by Asperger’s Syndrome, living on chocolate hot-dogs with only a goldfish for company.

Great wit and comic invention permeate this film, even in its serious moments. Mature people are best equipped to appreciate its humour fully, not because it’s raunchy, but because its references and structures reflect life experience that only maturity can bring.

A strong thread of pathos carries the story of an unlikely pair exchanging joys, sadnesses, simple gifts and their lives’ experiences during quarter of a century. While Max merely continues the friendship, Mary graduates, writes a book, marries and conceives a child with Damien, a Greek boy reluctant to come out.

Elliott’s screenplay offers profound charm and compassion without getting maudlin or contriving happiness that rings less than true. The film’s rewards develop more from a leisurely observation of its characters and situations than plot energy. Voicing by Toni Collette, Phillip Seymour Hoffman, Eric Bana and Molly Meldrum, and narration by Barry Humphries, are top class. The music, including the theme to ABC Radio’s Children’s Session and popular hits from a less media-plenteous era, nicely complements the story’s mood.

Another Oscar ? Why not ?

At Dendy

Summer Hours (M) THIS engaging but complex film about a family disputing how to share an inherit-

Mighty Mary and Max

ance begins with grandmother, on her 75th birthday, telling her children they are to share it equally. Elder son Frederic (Charles Berling) wants to retain her country house, its valuable paintings, objéts d’art and furnishings. Daughter Adrienne (Juliette Binoche) and second son Jeremie (Jeremie Reinier) want cash because they can’t easily enjoy the estate from bases in New York and China.

While the plot focuses on resolution of that conflict, its subtext about generational attitudes, family differences and the role of art in life drives some compelling tensions. I found its last 10 or so minutes inviting us to interpret an implicit statement to be somewhat discomforting yet rewarding.

At Dendy

Inkheart (PG) Mo (Brendan Fraser) has a unique gift – he is a Silvertongue who by reading aloud can bring characters to life. Reading a novel to his infant daughter Meggie, Mo has brought Dustfinger (Paul Bettany) into the real world in unwitting exchange for his beloved wife. Ever since, Mo has been dragging the now-adolescent Meggie (Eliza Bennett) around the world seeking a copy to read aloud and restore the displaced pair to their rightful places.

For comic diversion, Helen Mirren is engaging as Mo’s acerbic bibliophile aunt while Jim Broadbent is Fenoglio who, having written the book, is the only person empowered to vary it and save Mo and Meggie from villainous Capricorn (Andy Serkis).

Filmed among magnificent mountains and enough special effects to be diverting, it’s enjoyable fantasy vigorously delivered, with some insistence on suspension of disbelief expressed with more credibility than you might expect, some defects in its making and a nicely-judged over-all balance between kid-stuff and grown-up appeal.

At Hoyts

CityNews April 9-15 15

arts&entertainment

Deep Blu vibe

fashion

DINING

By Wendy Johnson THINKING there’s a recession in town? Try wandering around the new dining precinct in Civic on a Thursday night. The place buzzes and the crowd at Blu Ginger, open just four weeks, was part of the scene.

Named after its original Sydney location on the famous eating strip on Blues Point Road, McMahon’s Point, this Indian restaurant dares to be different in its décor and some of the dishes on the menu.

There’s nothing blue about the décor (except for the colour of the wrapping on the chocolate you get at the end of your meal). The huge, mustard-colour lotus flower, which forms the main design feature of the restaurant, is on the back wall with a flat screen TV on either side (would have preferred the flower on its own, but anyway!).

Instead, Blu Ginger’s interior is designed around steely greys with dark brown tables and the taupe and red wallpaper adds a welcome touch of warmth. The ceiling is high and the noise levels can be intense, but it’s all about vibe.

The menu has classic Indian dishes, but also some modern twists – all using traditional and exotic spices.

We started with pappadums that were sensational – light and crispy, served with a refreshing mint yoghurt.

Next were the palak patha chaat and tandoori quail entreés (both $9.90). The first was made with batterfried spinach and served with a yogurt tamarind sauce, chickpeas and potatoes. The sauce was sweet, which we liked, but there was too much of it and so the poor

Blu Ginger...the place buzzes. spinach was simply smothered. The quail were every bit “tandoori”, although the meat was dry.

The highlight of the evening was the goat curry, from the extensive classic curries section of the menu, which also includes Bombay beef, a house special cooked with a hint of fenugreek leaves and cream ($16.90). The goat was tender and cooked on the bone using a North Indian recipe ($17.90). If you’ve never had goat, this is a great introduction to this flavoursome meat. And the Blu Ginger cooks it well.

The Blu Ginger offers an extensive list of vegetarian dishes and the entrées include an interesting-sounding tandoor fish tikka (fish fillet marinated and grilled in a clay oven), at $14.90 for three pieces, and the chef’s tandoori platter (for two) at $21.90.

The service at Blu Ginger is attentive and the staff keen to know if our dining experience was all we expected it to be.

Blu Ginger, 5 Benge Street, Canberra (6247 2228), open seven days.

Double dose of imagination Theatre

“DIY Double Bill” “Love Cupboard” written and directed by Emma Gibson; “Ghost Town Days” written and directed by Aj Biega. Belconnen Theatre. Season ended.

Reviewed by Joe Woodward. of the work. This was followed by a short pastiche sequence. The use of stillness and clipped dialogue was effective in the first 10 minutes. Biega’s work is still finding its form. Clichéd vampire dialogue detracted from the well established ambiguity of the “immortal” questions about life’s purpose and identity.

Having these plays performed in front of receptive audiences helps ensure the revitalisation of art within our culture. Both works provided challenging and engaging ideas about our relationships with each other and our wider connection to the world.

Cast lags script CANBERRA Dramatics’ stated aim of bringing the work of local playwrights to the stage is laudable, but in practice this has largely meant staging worked by the company’s founder Trevar Alan Chilver. It is probably time for Chilver to take a back seat and let someone else direct his own works.

The actual script of “The Incident at Fugue Bay” is an enticing romantic comedy-thriller and kept me guessing for the whole night, but the performances lagged well behind the text’s potential.

Gabrielle Adams, unconvincingly young for the psychiatrist 16 CityNews April 9-15

Theatre

“The Incident at Fugue Bay” Written and directed by Trevar Alan Chilver. Tuggeranong Arts Centre. Season ended Reviewed by Helen Musa Dr Anna Healey, nevertheless made a serious go at realising the pivotal character. Luke Blair as the amnesiac Todd Williams performed with commitment, but looked more like Anna’s kid brother than her ex-fiancé, while as the other love interest Constable Michael Addams, Nathan Stiles seemed too much the nice guy.

Hats on for a special high tea

By Megan Haggan MORE than 200 guests turned out to a “Hats and Gloves High Tea” in aid of Malkara School, which provides an early intervention and pre-school program for children with developmental delays, as well as a primary school program for children with moderate to severe intellectual disabilities.

According to Myriam Rivetti, one of the organisers, the event was partly for fundraising but, more importantly, was held to raise awareness of the school’s work.

“I think Australians are more socially aware than people from many other countries; and so we see a lot of people doing work for breast cancer and AIDS, which are admirable causes,” she told “CityNews”.

“But I think disability is something we

don’t hear about very much – so we wanted to raise awareness, because disability is for life, it’s not something you can heal from.”

Guests donned hats and gloves for a high tea and floor show at Government House.

The event was organised by the “Friends of Malkara” team of diplomatic spouses, two of whom have children at the school.

They say they are delighted by the way their children have “blossomed” there.

The floor show, MC’d by Lizzie Wagner, featured fashion from Review to show off hats and fascinators by Angela Menz and bags, shoes and fashion accessories from Carmen Steffens. Award-winning bridal gowns by Leonard Derecourt were also featured.

Social photos, Page 12

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TWO very imaginative plays with a lot of potential were presented as works-in-progress at The Belconnen Theatre.

In “Love Cupboard”, the more formed of the two, Emma Gibson has crafted a work with the strong central image of a closet from which emerges 16year-old Annabel (Hanna Cormick) who resides there while in a furtive relationship with an older man, Warren (Ben Drysdale).

Both actors imbued the work with naïve responses to their environment. This made for a most effective exposition of a seemingly real event.

Audiences were left discussing the ending. While the play’s vehicle is prepared, the destination is still too familiar.

Aj Biega’s “Ghost Town Days” offered glimpses of a richly textured exploration of materialism and the eternal. Scott Cumming’s delivery of the opening monologue established the absurdist nature

Gowns by Leonard Derecourt modelled by Simone Luker, left, and Kate Prowse.

Photo by Silas.

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JENNINE Jones, of Waramanga, took home a $600 gift voucher and luxe gift basket from Myer, as the winner of Classic Ladies’ Racewear on Myer Ladies’ Day at Thoroughbred Park.

Second was Diana Tundulin, of McKellar, and third Jackie Stenhouse, of Yarralumla.

Thoroughbred Park marketing manager Briony Young says the standard of competition was very high – “We were thrilled with the turnout and high dress standards.”

The contest was judged by Brian Cronk from Myer Canberra, Belinda Hamilton from Myer National Office, and WIN News’ Erin Jacqui Stenhouse, Brian Cronk, Jennie Jones and Diana Tundulin.

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Fashion keeps up with the Joneses

When the plane’s too fat to fly!

MD0139

I REMEMBER a time when flying was a lot more enjoyable than it is now. These days it has become just one of life’s necessary evils – something to be endured; sort of on par with a trip to the dentist or a PAP smear.

I’m writing this just after having a particularly freaky set of flight delays and cancellations that culminated in the disturbing episode I to refer to as the “plane that was too fat to fly”.

I caught an early flight out of Canberra and was up before 4am. Then, at the end of a long day, my return flight from Sydney was delayed on the tarmac for what seemed like forever.

The plane was packed with other Canberrans anxious to get home and the atmosphere was pretty fraught.

Eventually, after a long delay, an airline official came on board and announced that our plane was too overweight to take off and that all the baggage that had just been loaded on would have to be removed.

What’s more, four passengers were asked to volunteer to leave the plane (actually, more than four people got up to go, no doubt wondering what else might be wrong with the flight).

The flight attendants and pilot could not have been more embarrassed and apologetic and most of the passengers all took it happily on the chin. Eventually, we took off and I picked at a

Mum in the city

By Sonya Fladun

pretty stale sandwich because what else can you do when you’re stuck in seat with your knees under your chin?

Certainly, it struck me that flying these days really does feel like cattle being loaded, chucked a bit of hay to keep you occupied during the journey, and then herded out at the other end.

It’s a grim, mass-transit, public-toilet type of experience that leaves a lot to be desired.

And this isn’t helped by the desire of the airlines to minimise the human factor of the equation. Maybe the computer check-in facilities do reduce queues – and I know I’m showing my grey hairs when I admit I would much rather deal with a person than a computer – but seeking assistance from a touch screen just doesn’t do it when you are anxious and frazzled.

I like being able to talk to a real person and to get some service with a smile. I remember last year being really sick while away for work and the effort a lovely staff member at the check in counter went to so I could get on an earlier flight. I’d like to see a touch screen do that!

It Started with a Kiss...

Technology has never been my thing. I only made a Facebook profile two years ago so I could look at my friend Sam’s photos of her work at the Koala Sanctuary in Port Macquarie!

After I looked at her photos, I never thought about Facebook again – until Sam emailed me about a message she’d received from a man, asking if I was the same Kathy Walsh he’d known 21 years ago.

Brett and I had been engaged, but we were very young, and I hadn’t been sure I was ready to get married. I called the wedding off and broke his heart.

After I spoke to Sam, I logged onto Facebook. I wasn’t expecting a message to pop straight up – “Boo!” It was Brett! We started talking via Facebook, and then on the

phone – and before we both knew it he was coming from Sydney to spend weekends with me in Canberra.

A couple of weeks ago Brett asked me to marry him… again! Of course I said yes, and we’re going to be married on October 31st.

November 1 is Brett’s birthday, and my birthday present to him will be for him to wake up with me, his wife.

I can’t wait until the wedding day, when I’ll be able to finally wear the ring Brett and I have designed with the lovely Tina at Dimitries Jewellers – 24 years after we become “officially” engaged!

To talk to Tina about your fairytale ending, call 6299 1300 or email dimitrie@iinet.net.au.

Shop 5 Citylink Plaza, Morisset St, QUEANBEYAN, N.S.W 2620 02 6299 1300 CityNews April 9-15 17

18  CityNews April 9-15

keeping warm this winter

home

Simon says it’s easy to save energy Energy Minister Simon Corbell tells MEGAN HAGGAN that his Home Energy Action Kits are a great way of reducing carbon footprints over winter.

THERE’S a good reason Canberra has a national reputation for its winters.

But despite the chill, winter is a prime opportunity for Canberrans to reduce energy consumption via heaters and other electrical devices, says Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Water, and Minister for Energy, Simon Corbell.

“We know Canberrans are keen to save energy where possible,” Mr Corbell told “CityNews”.

He encouraged residents to take advantage of Home Energy Action Kits, available for hire from ACT public libraries, to help them reduce their carbon footprint over winter. The kits have enjoyed a very positive reaction from Canberrans, Mr Corbell said.

“These kits allow residents to highlight areas in their home where they can improve energy efficiency.”

He suggested several measures we can take to conserve energy over winter.

“Targeting your ducted heating to the room you’re occupying, installing insulation in the roof cavity and walls to keep heat in, turning off lights when leaving the room, having shorter showers and using less hot water, and reducing air leakage around doorframes can help reduce energy con-

In-floor heating... maintenance-free and no-cleaning, says Peter Heaney.

Cosy from the floor up “ONCE you’ve lived with in-floor heating, you’ll never again settle for less,” says Peter Heaney, proprietor of P.A.P. Heating Solutions in Mitchell.

In-floor heating is maintenance-free and so doesn’t require the cleaning or replacement of filters, he says, and is well suited for those who have concerns about air-borne allergens and asthma.

“Heat is evenly distributed as the cables are evenly spaced in the floor, leaving no hot or cold pockets of air,” he explains.

Benefits include a silent, dust-free operation; high efficiency and safety for small children. It’s also unobtrusive, not restricting décor with vents, radiators or ducts, he says.

“In terms of cost, the installation of electric in-floor heating compares very favourably with hydronic or ducted split systems. In-slab heating takes advantage of off-peak electricity rates and is zoned to suit the customer’s own preferences,” Mr Heaney says.

“It can also be used in combination with

other systems or as stand-alone, using some day rate energy.

“Under tile (demand) heating can be installed in existing homes or during construction alongside other systems including in-slab heating.”

As well as being suitable for houses and apartments, P.A.P’s in-floor heating products are also well suited to nursing homes, child care centres and day spas.

Mr Heaney says the company, which was established in 1988, uses only products that meet the highest national and international standards.

These include the Elektra VCD Twin Heating Cable, Elektra Heating Mats, Elektra Self-Regulating Cable and Frost Protection Systems and the DM20 in Screed (Undertile) Heating Cable.

“Our systems are backed by the accuracy and reliability of the OJ High Efficiency Thermostat range,” Mr Heaney says.

Home Energy Action Kit, available for hire from ACT public libraries. sumption with the added benefit of saving money on your regular bills.”

The Federal Government’s second economic stimulus package includes incentives for homeowners and landlords to install ceiling insulation; the Federal Government also announced a rebate of $1600 for solar hot water systems.

designcraft

Canberra’s contemporary furniture showroom

For more information call 6242 9310.

Future Directions Live

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Topic: State of the Market – How do our future leaders navigate through the GFC? Guest speakers: Adrian Harrington, CEO Funds Management, UK & US, Mirvac and Peter Verwer, Chief Executive, Property Council of Australia When: Thursday 23 April Time: 6pm to 8pm Venue: Level 4, Uni Pub, 17 London Circuit, Canberra City Proudly sponsored by: HBO + EMTB and Zenith Interiors

Commercial Property Asset Management Diploma – 3 Day course When: 26 May, 2 June and 9 June Time: 8am to 5pm Venue: Minter Ellison Lawyers, Level 3, 25 National Circuit, Forrest Proudly sponsored by: Minter Ellison Lawyers

Property Council of Australia (ACT) Awards Night and Gala Ball

All about Canberra

For more information on upcoming events, membership or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Antoinette Perera on 02 6248 6902 or email Aperera@propertyoz.com.au

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Theme: A Bollywood Affair When: Friday 7 August Time: 7:00pm Venue: National Convention Centre Proudly sponsored by St Hilliers

CityNews April 9-15 19

prime time television Highlights Just For Laughs: Montreal Comedy Festival

Monday, SC Ten, 8.30pm

SBS

SC Ten

WIn

PrIme

ABC1

For those not in the mood – or not in the right city – to get out of the house and check out some of the attractions at this year’s Melbourne International Comedy Festival, there’s this timely broadcast of last year’s Just for Laughs festival in Montreal, Canada. Hosted by Good News Week’s Paul McDermott (above).

Cutting Edge: Wall Street – The Meltdown

Guerilla Gardeners

Mad Men

Midsomer Murders

Sadly, this reality show doesn’t follow a group of planting primates but rather a crack team of renegade landscapers who flout council rules all in the name of beautifying urban eyesores. Under the watchful eye of host Dave Lawson (above), the energetic team of garden gurus replace graffiti with greenery and trash with trees, to transform neglected intersections, roundabouts and even rail bridges into inner-city oases.

It’s about time this gorgeously shot series made it to free-to-air. It is 1960 and Don Draper (John Hamm) is the alpha male of Madison Avenue’s ad men, cutting a swathe through the office with bullish pitches and confidently dispatching the younger men vying for his job. Over 13 episodes the show’s writers tease apart characters’ hidden pasts to reveal the social complexities of this era.

The thankfully fictional county of Midsomer is England’s murder capital.

All that stands between the citizens of what should be a scenic sleepy-hollow village and a seemingly endless horde of crafty killers is determined detective Tom Barnaby (John Nettles, above). This week, aided by offsider Gavin Troy (Daniel Casey), he’s on the case of the murderer of extremely unpopular landlord and magistrate.

Wednesday, SC Ten, 8pm

Tuesday, SBS, 8.30pm Focusing on Henry “Hank” Paulson (right), then Secretary of the US Treasury, who decided not to bail out major investment bank Lehman Brothers in September 2008, this doco looks at the build-up to the Wall Street crash and actions taken by those in positions of power and responsibility. The jury is still out on whether he made the right call. Watch and tremble.

Thursday, SBS, 8.30pm

ABC1, 8.30pm

SundAy, 12

mondAy, 13

TueSdAy, 14

WedneSdAy, 15

6.00 At The Movies. (R, S) 6.30 The Einstein Factor. (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The Story Of India: Spice Routes And Silk Roads. (G, S) 8.25 News. (S) 8.30 Agatha Christie’s Poirot. (Final) While on holiday in Syria, Hercule Poirot becomes involved with an archaeological expedition led by an English nobleman and his cadre of troublesome relatives. Events take an unexpected turn, however, after the man’s wealthy wife is murdered. (M, S) 10.05 Compass.

11.05 Grace Kelly: Destiny Of A Princess. (G, R, S)

6.00 Landline Extra. (R, S) 6.30 Talking Heads. (G, R, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 Australian Story. Extraordinary Australians tell personal stories with pathos, drama and humour. (S) 8.30 Four Corners.

Investigative journalism program. (S) 9.20 Media Watch.

Hosted by Jonathan Holmes. (S) 9.35 Spooks. Britain is on the verge of an epidemic and the team must track down and quarantine anyone infected. (M, S) 10.30 Lateline. (S) 11.10 An Alien History Of Planet Earth. (PG, R, S)

6.05 Time Team. (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. Mark Corcoran presents stories from the ABC’s correspondents. (S) 8.30 Around The World In 80 Gardens: Mexico And Cuba. British gardening writer and TV presenter Monty Don sets off on a global journey visiting 80 of the world’s most celebrated and stunning gardens. (G, S) 9.30 Lead Balloon. (PG, S) 10.05 Artscape. (M, S) 10.35 Lateline. (S) 11.10 Lateline Business. (S) 11.35 Four Corners. (R, S)

6.00 Travel Oz. (G, S) 6.30 The Cook And The Chef. (S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 The New Inventors. (S) 8.30 Spicks And Specks. Music game show. Hosted by Adam Hills. (S) 9.00 The Gruen Transfer.

Comedian Wil Anderson is joined by experts to dissect the advertising industry and consumerism. (S) 9.35 Lawrence Leung’s Choose Your Own Adventure: Be The Best In The World. (M, S) 10.05 At The Movies. (S) 10.35 Lateline. (S) 11.10 Lateline Business. (S) 11.35 Proof. (M, R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Air Crash Investigations: Missed Approach. (PG, S) 7.30 Border Security – Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R, S) 8.00 Coastwatch. A New Zealand navy warship hunts for a suspicious deep-sea trawler. Northland fishery officers stake out a notorious paua-poaching spot.

(PG, S) 8.30 Bones. Brennan and Booth investigate the site of a train derailment caused by a car sitting on the track, possibly a suicide. (M, R, S) 10.30 Infamous Assassinations.

(M) 11.00 24. (M, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 How I Met Your Mother. (PG, R, S) 8.00 Scrubs. When Ted falls in love, the Janitor and JD join forces to help him woo the girl of his dreams. (PG, S) 8.30 Movie: Picture Perfect. (1997) Jennifer Aniston, Jay Mohr, Kevin Bacon, Olympia Dukakis. A female advertising executive pretends to be engaged to further her career.

(M, R, S) 10.40 Boston Legal. (M, R, S). 11.40 30 Rock. (PG, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 RSPCA Animal Rescue. (G, R, S) 8.00 Find My Family. Amy is angry and hurt that her father was never in her life, but her dad has his own story to tell. Julia discovered she was adopted at eight, and now wants to find her biological parents. Hosted by Jack Thompson.

(PG, R, S) 8.30 Movie: The Truth About Cats & Dogs. (1996) Janeane Garofalo, Uma Thurman, Ben Chaplin, Jamie Foxx.

(M, R, S) 10.30 Eli Stone. (M, S) 11.30 Carpoolers. (PG)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 Australia’s Got Talent. (G, S) 8.30 Criminal Minds. (M, R, S) A serial arsonist targets the homes of wealthy families while they sleep. Hotch and Gideon determine the victims are linked via development companies that have been accused of building on contaminated land. 10.30 Lost. (M, S) 11.30 Disorderly Conduct Caught On Tape. (M)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 20 To 01. (PG, R, S) 7.30 60 Minutes.

(S) 8.30 Movie: Mr & Mrs Smith. (2005) Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Vince Vaughn. A young couple whose marriage has lost its spark keep their jobs as hired assassins secret from each other. But their deception is exposed when the rival organisations they work for give them the same assignment. (M, R, S) 11.00 Hell’s Kitchen. (MA15+)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 Two And A Half Men. (PG, R, S) 8.00 Customs. (Final) Follows Customs officers as they investigate suspected drug traffickers and people smugglers in a quest to keep the UK safe. (PG, S) 8.30 Underbelly: A Tale Of Two Cities.

Terry decides to franchise his crime empire and expand into the UK market. Allison is promoted to a major role in the organisation. (M, R, S) 11.20 Entertainment Tonight. (R, S) 11.50 WIN Presents. (PG, R)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair.

(S) 7.30 AFHV: World’s Funniest Videos. (PG, S) 8.00 Commercial Breakdown. Clever and funny commercials from around the world. Hosted by Darren McMullen.

(PG, S) 8.30 Two And A Half Men. Charlie becomes impotent when armchair psychoanalysis by Rose tells him he has unresolved issues with his mother. (M, R, S) 9.30 Hell’s Kitchen. (MA15+, S) 10.30 Bridezillas. (M, S) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 What’s Good For You. (PG, S) 8.00 RPA. 17-year-old Daniel received shattering news that he must lose his left arm to survive a cancerous bone tumour, and now the doctors have more bad news. (M, S) 8.30 The Mentalist.

After a body washes ashore, Patrick sets a trap to identify the killer, who is thought to be hiding among a group of surfers. (M, R, S) 9.30 Cold Case. (PG, R, S) 10.30 Cold Case.

(M, R, S) 11.30 Entertainment Tonight. (R, S)

6.00 The Simpsons. (PG, R, S) 6.30 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 7.30 So You Think You Can Dance Australia. (PG, S) 9.30 Rove. Celebrity interviews, comedy, music and regular variety segments. Guests include Adam Hills, Arj Barker and Russell Kane and Relentless7 performing their song Shimmer and Shine. (M, S) 10.40 Dexter. (MA15+) 11.40 The Office. (PG)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 7.30 I Get That A Lot. (S) 8.00 The Simpsons. Principal Skinner opens a Counter Truancy Unit at Springfield Elementary, with Lisa heading up the operation. Homer is sent to dispose of a container of yoghurt so far past its freshness date that it could be toxic.

(PG, R, S) 8.30 Just For Laughs: Montreal Comedy Festival.

(PG, S) 10.30 News/Sports Tonight. (S) 11.15 David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 8.00 Bondi Rescue. Sydney experiences a record numbers of sharks visiting its shores. (PG, S) 8.30 NCIS. After a marine colonel dies in an explosion at a military golf course, the team investigates a suspected terrorist attack. The team finds compromising evidence among the possessions of an honoured veteran who is found dead in a hotel. (M, R, S) 10.30 News/Sports Tonight. (S) 11.15 David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 The Simpsons. (PG, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 8.00 Guerrilla Gardeners. A team of six gardeners transforms barren and under-used city spaces into oases of greenery. (PG, S) 8.30 House.

After months of caring for her dying husband, a woman collapses from an unknown disease. While her condition rapidly deteriorates, her husband’s health mysteriously improves. (M, S) 9.30 Life. (M, S) 10.30 News/Sports Tonight. (S) 11.15 Late Show With David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 Thalassa: Divers Of The Caribbean. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Lost Worlds: Walking The Bible. (Final) (G, R, S) 8.30 Movie: Saved. (2009) Claudia Karvan, Andy Rodoreda, Osamah Sami. A young woman struggling to come to terms with a recent tragedy becomes involved in the plight of an Iranian asylum seeker being detained in Australia. (M, S) 10.10 Cycling.

Paris-Roubaix. From France.

6.00 Living Black. (S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Top Gear. (PG, S) 8.30 Swift And Shift Couriers. With the depot’s logistics system in ruins, Mario is ordered to deliver a realistic-looking sex doll to a farmer in a small town. (M, R, S) 9.00 Bogan Pride. Jennie is forced to sell “bonsai cats” to pay for her mother’s stomach-stapling operation. (M, R, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 Shameless. (MA15+, S) 10.55 Skins.

(M, R, S) 11.50 Movie: Reconstruction. (2003) (M, R, S)

6.00 Global Village. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia.

(S) 7.30 Insight. (S) 8.30 Cutting Edge: Wall Street – The Meltdown. Chronicles the origins of the global financial crisis and the role Wall Street played in the disaster, as well as how figures such as Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke may have contributed. (G, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 Hot Docs: The Take. (M, R, S) 11.25 Movie: The Bodyguard. (2006) (M, S)

6.00 Global Village: The Sulphur Slaves. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Food Safari. (G, R, S) 8.00 Trawlermen: The Great Prawn Hunter. (G, S) 8.35 Long Way Round. Ewan and Charley receive a warm welcome at the Kazakhstani border where they visit a UNICEF project and take a much-needed break from their journey. (M, R, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 Movie: Himalaya. (1999) (PG, R, S) 11.50 Movie: Pope John Paul II. (2005) (PG, R, S)

20 CityNews April 9-15

April 12-18

TransTV highlights

Movies

Hot Fuzz

Jindabyne

Himalaya

From the warped minds that brought you horror spoof Shaun of the Dead comes this criminally funny cop movie parody that plays like Bad Boys meets Midsomer Murders.

Simon Pegg (above) stars as top London cop Nicholas Angel, transferred to a sleepy Somerset village. It’s supposed to be an easy gig, but pretty soon he’s up to his eyeballs in murder. Also stars Bill Nighy and Timothy Dalton.

Based on the same Raymond Carver short story that Robert Altman included as part of Short Cuts, director Ray Lawrence (Lantana) tells the grim tale of Irishman Stewart Kane (Gabriel Byrne, right) and his Aussie mates (John Howard, Stelios Yiakmis, Simon Stone), who stumble upon the corpse of a girl while on a fishing trip. There isn’t a poor performance to be found in Jindabyne – it’s the kind of slow-burn, introspective drama that local filmmakers revel in.

Wednesday, SBS, 10pm Plot and characters take a back seat to the aweinspiring Himlayan scenery in Roger Valli’s Oscar-nominated depiction of the area’s local yak herders. The familiar story concerns impetuous younger herder Karma (Gurgon Kyap, above) who, believing there is a better way to do things, engages in a battle-of-wills with his elder Tinle (Thilen Lhondup).

Saturday, Prime, 9.05pm

Saturday, WIN, 9.30pm

6.10 Grand Designs. (G, R, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 The 7.30 Report. (S) 8.00 Catalyst. A look at a virtual reality treatment that is helping soldiers deal with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. (S) 8.30 Solo. Follows Andrew McAuley’s ill-fated attempt to become the first person to kayak 1600km from Australia to New Zealand across one of the wildest and loneliest stretches of ocean on Earth. (M, S) 9.30 Q&A. (S) 10.30 Lateline. (S) 11.05 Lateline Business.

(S) 11.30 Spectacle: Elvis Costello With… (PG, R, S)

6.00 Message Stick. (G, R, S) 6.30 Can We Help? (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 Stateline. (S) 8.00 Collectors. (S) 8.30 Midsomer Murders. The peace of Martyr Warren is disturbed by the arrival of Travellers whose presence coincides with the murder of a local magistrate. However, when Barnaby and Troy investigate they quickly discover no shortage of suspects among the villagers. (M, S) 10.15 The Hollowmen. (M, R, S) 10.45 Lateline. (S) 11.20 triple j tv With The Doctor. (R, S) 11.50 Good Game. (R, S)

6.00 Totally Frank. (PG, R, S) 6.25 Minuscule: Picnic. (G) 6.30 Gardening Australia. (G, S) 7.00 News. (S) 7.30 New Tricks. (PG, R, S) 8.25 News. (S) 8.30 The Bill. DC Moss is still undercover, and on the run with her target Rob Towler, leaving a confused DS Turner wondering what happened to provoke her actions. The police are called to a stabbing in a nightclub on New Year’s Eve. (M, S) 10.00 News. (S) 10.05 Silent Witness. (Final, M, R, S) 11.50 Rage.

(M)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 Ghost Whisperer. (PG, R, S) 8.30 Private Practice. Pete’s girlfriend, Meg, returns to Los Angeles and notices that Pete and Violet are considerably closer.

Kevin questions the direction he and Addison are headed in as a couple. Cooper treats a young diabetic boy with a mysterious past. Charlotte and her team continue to siphon business away from Oceanside Wellness. (M, S) 10.30 Scrubs. (PG, R) 11.20 Beauty And The Geek. (PG)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Today Tonight. (S) 7.00 Home And Away. (PG, S) 7.30 Better Homes And Gardens. (G, S) 8.30 Heartbeat. Blaketon falls out with a close friend when he dabbles in the criminal underworld in order to pay for his daughter’s wedding. (PG) 9.30 Football. AFL. Round 4.

Brisbane Lions v Collingwood. From the Gabba. (S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Thunderbeast. (PG, S) 7.30 Movie: Antz. (1998) (PG, R, S) 9.05 Movie: Hot Fuzz. (2007) Simon Pegg, Martin Freeman, Bill Nighy. An overly competent police officer is transferred to a remote and apparently peaceful posting by his jealous colleagues. However, a series of grisly murders soon sees him back in action along with his new, well-meaning partner. (MA15+, S) 11.20 Ripping Yarns. (PG, R)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair. (S) 7.30 Getaway. (PG, S) 8.30 20 To 01. Bert Newton counts down 20 celebrations, from festival fun to unique rites of passage, with Australians letting their hair down as only Aussies can. (PG, R, S) 9.30 The Footy Show. NRL. (M, S) 11.00 WIN News. (S) 11.30 The Footy Show. AFL. Join hosts Garry Lyon, James Brayshaw and Sam Newman, along with Billy Brownless, Craig Hutchison and Shane Crawford, for the latest news and match previews. (M, S)

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 WIN News. (S) 7.00 A Current Affair.

(S) 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 6. Penrith Panthers v Brisbane Broncos. From CUA Stadium, Penrith. (S) 9.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 6. Gold Coast Titans v Canberra Raiders. From Skilled Park Stadium, Gold Coast. (S) 11.30 WIN News. (S)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 8.00 Bondi Vet. (PG, S) 8.30 Law & Order: SVU. In the process of investigating an attack on a young girl, detectives Benson and Stabler uncover a problem with drugs and abuse in a women’s prison.

(M, R, S) 9.30 Life On Mars. The detectives raid a motel where they discover a city councillor in a compromising position. (M, S) 10.30 News/Sports Tonight. (S) 11.15 The Late Show With David Letterman. (PG)

6.00 The Simpsons. (G, R, S) 6.30 Neighbours. (G, S) 7.00 The Biggest Loser. (PG, S) 7.30 The Simpsons. (PG, R, S) 8.30 Medium. Allison and Ariel begin to have dreams about a crime. They each see events unfold from different perspectives, revealing two suspects. (M, R, S) 9.30 Law & Order. Detectives Green and Lupo suspect a case of mistaken identity when a murdered doctor appears to have been in the wrong place at the wrong time. (M, R, S) 11.20 News. (S) 11.50 Sports Tonight. (S)

6.00 Futurama. (PG, R, S) 6.30 The Simpsons. (PG, R, S) 8.00 The Simpsons. Lisa tries to befriend a new student, only to become the target of the girl’s violent outbursts. (G, R, S) 8.30 Movie: Ned Kelly. (2003) Heath Ledger, Orlando Bloom, Naomi Watts, Geoffrey Rush.

Dramatisation of the short life and violent death of legendary Australian outlaw Ned Kelly. (M, R, S) 10.40 Football. AFL. Round 4. Adelaide v Geelong. From AAMI Stadium.

6.00 Global Village. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia.

(S) 7.35 Inspector Rex. (PG, R) 8.30 Mad Men. Don Draper, family man and ad executive at a top Manhattan agency in the early 1960s, struggles with his professional and personal impulses, against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America. (M, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 UEFA Champions League Hour. Features highlights from the UEFA Champions League. 11.00 Oz. (MA15+, R, S)

6.00 Global Village. (G, R, S) 6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 Inside The Saudi Kingdom. (PG, S) 8.35 As It Happened: Guests Of The Ayatollah – Takeover. Part 1 of 4. Examines and re-enacts the events surrounding the Iran hostage crisis from 1979-81. (PG, S) 9.30 World News Australia. (S) 9.55 Market Update. 10.00 Call Girls: The Truth. Investigates London’s escort industry to find out more about the women who have embraced the profession. (MA15+, R, S) 10.55 Movie: Faust.

5.0 (2001) (MA15+, R, S).

6.30 World News Australia. (S) 7.30 MythBusters. (PG, S) 8.30 Iron Chef. Japanese cooking show in which a world-renowned chef and his challenger have one hour to concoct a banquet. (G, S) 9.20 RocKwiz. Music quiz show hosted by Julia Zemiro, featuring guests Archie Roach and Sara Storer. Each guest performs one of their songs backed by the RocKwiz Orkestra before combining for a closing duet. (M, R, S) 10.10 Movie: The Blue Box. (2005) (M, S) 11.45 Shorts On Screen. (M)

6PM – DISNEY CHANNEL (201)

In order to spend more time with Miley, Lily joins the cheerleading squad. But things don’t go as planned when Miley doesn’t make the squad and ends up as the team mascot!

Exploring Malaysia 7.30PM – BBC WORLD NEWS (452)

saturday, 18

Prime

friday, 17

Hannah Montana

aBC1

thursday, 16

SUNDAY, APRIL 12

This three-part series, presented by Malaysian actress and environmentalist Joanna Bessey, gives an insider’s look at the people, the places and the tastes of emerging Malaysia.

August Rush 8.30PM – MOVIE ONE (411)

Starring Robin Williams and Freddie Highmore, this is a heart-warming tale of an orphaned, musical prodigy determined to find his birth parents in the bustling streets of New York.

MONDAY, APRIL 13 Worldwide Exchange 6PM – CNBC (453)

WiN

6.00 News. (S) 6.30 Australia’s Funniest Home Videos. (G, S) 7.30 Movie: Serving Sara. (2002) (PG, R, S) 9.30 Movie: Jindabyne. (2006) Gabriel Byrne, Laura Linney, DeborraLee Furness. An Irishman living in the Australian town of Jindabyne discovers the body of a dead girl while on a fishing trip with three friends in isolated bushland. (M, S)

“Worldwide Exchange” looks at the close of the trading day from Asia, the middle of the trading day in Europe and the pre-market action in the US.

In Too Deep – Peru 8PM – ANIMAL PLANET (306)

sC teN

Jamie Crawford heads to the Amazon in Peru to see how animals survive in this harsh and testing environment.

Rebel Without a Cause 8.30PM – Movie Greats (415)

A rebellious young man with a troubled past moves to a new town and finds friends – and enemies. Starring James Dean and Natalie Wood.

sBs

www.transact.com.au

CityNews April 9-15 21

general knowledge crossword ACROSS 3 In classical legend, which hero of great strength performed 12 extraordinary tasks?

7 In golf, what is a position in which an opponent's ball lies directly between the player's ball and the hole?

8 Name the most important narcotic principle of opium?

9 To withdraw something formally is to what?

10 Which soft unctuous medical preparation is applied to the skin?

1 11 Name a US city in NE New Jersey.

14 Which term describes something that is 7 quite new?

17 The marriage of one woman with one man is what?

18 Name a gold mining township north of 9 Bathurst NSW. 19 Which word describes industrial automatic processes?

20 What is another word for an exit?

21 Those who "linger longer" are what?

11

No. 206 11 Which word expresses a number?

12 Name the horse that won the 1925 Melbourne cup.

13 What is an organised series of boat races?

14 What is the Latin name for Odysseus?

15 The apparel of a police officer or the like is called a what?

16 Which term describes that which is infinite?

Solution next week

2

3

4

5

6

10

13

14

15

16

What is a lofty tower attached to a church?

Name the more common term for loss of memory?

Having been sentenced to death, which poison did Socrates drink?

Which nautical device is used for hoisting weights?

One who "hangs about" does what?

To be perfumed is to be what?

17 18 19

Though others are going down potholes and hitting brick walls, you are sailing on relentlessly. It is all by virtue of your incurable optimism. It doesn’t really give you the room to doubt that sinks some of your fellow travellers. Be slightly aware of your footing.

Your roots will serve you better than your longing for the sky. The winds of change are strong and for now it is wise to have a good relationship with solid ground.

Though it’s less exciting to be walking rather than flying, it will help give you more of who you are.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

You certainly aren’t dancing with anything that is going on at the surface of your life.

You are however very powerfully excited by the more subterranean shifts and changes that are afoot. Call a halt to communication that isn’t serving your higher interests.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

21

Sudoku medium No. 004

4 9 1 7 3 8 7 7 6 4 8 2 5 4 6 5

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

There’s a gap in the psycho-spiritual traffic.

You are being gifted a moment of free flow and opportunity. There is confluence for you, where there is incongruence landing in other people’s laps. Don’t look a gift centaur in the mouth. Take your chances.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) 20

9 2 1

ARIES Mar 21 – Apr 20

If you can comprehend the full scale of what is going on, you will be gifted all the tools you need to get through it. If you head into ostrich land and bury your head in a fluffy cloud, then not so. Be real. It’s a joyous experience to have an unadulterated view.

DOWN 1

2

3

4

5 6

With Sudhir (M.J.Dean) April 11 – April 18

The wall that you are facing is an important one. The very fact of its insurmountable-ness is what will take you to a new level of being.

In facing the inescapable, the ego is humbled and with a gentle twist the spirit can fly. Don’t push – instead, ponder.

8

12

your week in the stars

1 3 9 1

Sudoku is an 81, square number Solution Crossword No.205 E X O D U S U S I grid with nine X A A T R O P I N E blocks each P E NM A N T L F A D R I V E WA Y containing nine O R I P S AW E N cells. To solve T K I MM U N I T Y the puzzle, all E C O E R I C K S H AW B A the blank cells S N E R A S E R must be filled in C A V A L I E R N L using numbers I V B MO D U L I D A T E L I N E I N from 1 to 9.

H S S N U T M E G Each number can only appear once in each Solution Sudoku row, column and hard No. 003 in the nine 3x3 1 4 3 6 5 7 8 9 2 blocks. You can 6 9 2 8 1 3 4 5 7 successfully solve 5 8 7 2 9 4 1 3 6 the puzzle just by 4 6 5 9 8 1 2 7 3 using logic and 3 2 1 7 4 5 6 8 9 the process of 8 7 9 3 6 2 5 4 1 elimination.

7 1 8 5 3 6 9 2 4 Solution next week

It is inevitable when it comes to expressing feelings that the atmosphere becomes just that little bit more volatile. The trick is to be so utterly certain of the rightness of the encounter that you never lose sight of the greater joy that births itself through honesty.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) Love will carry you through territory that all that you thought you knew from the past can’t. Yesterday is important – but isn’t a perfect template for today. Life is such a deliciously creative beast that it’s always going to have an extra card or three up its sleeve.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22) There’s a tremendous battle going on in your heart between all that is safe and secure and all that wants to innovate, shift out of known territory and fly high. The very friction of this is creating a third thing, which is full of light and way beyond your mind’s eye.

For those who are willing to have a go at understanding the natural order, there is ground under foot. Wisdom will fix what all the knowledge in the world can’t. Don’t get offside with your heart. Step back and give it a listen when disharmony gets too much.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) The future isn’t going to be pulled into place by your will. It is going to unfold at its own pace and in it’s own inimitable way. Honour all that you feel with no hint of an expectation - and lo and behold - results that go beyond what you expect, show up.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) You are confronting old patterns that are sticking you in the mud. No fishy likes to be in that particular spot. If you panic you’ll just get more stuck and you know it. Relax, be still and untie the bits of seaweed one strand at a time. Soon you’ll be swimming free.

Copyright 2009 Sudhir (M.J.Dean).

2 5 4 1 7 9 3 6 8 9 3 6 4 2 8 7 1 5

© Auspac Media

UNLIMITED ENTRY FOR ENTIRE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS DFO Canberra cnr Canberra Ave & Newcastle St Fyshwick ACT 2609 02 6280 5294 / 02 6280 5482

22 CityNews April 9-15

0 5 $ per childee dult Fr

anying A 1 Accomp

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of April

prestigeproperty

Flow and harmony THE promise of “perfect flow and harmony” greets visitors to this distinctive Yerrabi residence, artistically designed and built by Deluxe Homes.

From a grand entrance through the expansive formal and informal living areas, the astonishing “kitchen of tomorrow”, stylish bathrooms and spacious bedrooms, to fabulous alfresco and lush garden, the house is set over a single level of comfort and style.

“Be impressed by the fine balance of elegance, sophisticated informality and opulent interiors this property has on offer,” says selling agent Elizabeth Jancewicz.

The property’s rumpus room with separate access, own bathroom and ample parking would suit an executive professional wanting to work from home.

Built on one of Yerrabi’s largest blocks (932m2), the house is only metres from the lake and nearby boulevard.

“It is one of Gungahlin’s most enviable properties, situated only short walk from Marketplace, schools, clubs, cafes and restaurants, yet so close to nature with its peace and overwhelming beauty,” says Elizabeth.

Address: 16 Chidley Street, Yerrabi.

Price: $970,000+.

Inspection: By appointment.

Agent: Elizabeth Jancewicz, Peter Blackshaw Gungahlin, 0408 219148 or 6241 9444.

Property Management: 6296 5595

hrussell@peterblackshawtuggeranong.com.au

Budget time: and the focus is survival THE focus of the upcoming ACT Budget, due on May 5, needs to be sharp, clear and responsive to protecting the Territory from the current economic downturn. It should deal not only with the here-and-now, but also our long-term prosperity.

It should show that the ACT Government is serious about keeping the economy going by prioritising the attraction of investment and the retention and creation of jobs. It should provide incentives for projects that do that.

Challenges that should be given clear priority in the Budget include planning, tax reform, completing the long-awaited infrastructure plan and providing incentives for converting existing buildings to make them less energy and water hungry.

Some basic themes could be “jobs”, “incentives”, “economic stimulus” and “environmental responsibility”. A basic priority for all initiatives could be “integrated and strategic planning”. A central proviso for considering initiatives could be “the long-term implications for the Territory”.

The Budget should provide incentives for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions by, say, improving the green credentials of existing buildings.

The Government needs to set an agenda that

Danielle Freeman Property Manager

Property

By Catherine Carter shows a vision for Canberra, for the next 20 years as well as the immediate future. It needs to show it has the fundamentals right – taxes, incentives, and priorities for major works.

Preparing an effective Budget in times like these is a big task for any government, and for the ACT it also represents an opportunity to address outstanding issues and build on current achievements.

For example, Planning Minister Andrew Barr’s recent announcement to increase urban density in the town centres over the next five to 10 years and to restructure ACTPLA to ease planning approval bottlenecks should ultimately remove hindrances to those projects which create jobs and keep the economy viable, as well as reducing the Territory’s commuting carbon emissions.

However, what we need is something more definite than a statement. We need specific deadline dates for these initiatives, and the Budget is the opportunity to do this.

Catherine Carter is the executive director of the Property Council of Australia (ACT).

Craig Sleeman Cr Property Manager Pr Natasha Greaves Executive Assistant

Heidi Russell Property Management Co-Ordinator

Sarah Thorpe S Property Manager P

Is your property manager really taking care of your investment?

Ask yourself these questions...

• • • •

Has your property been inspected, and have you been informed about it in the last 6 months?

Is your property up to the current market rent? Does your property manager even know?

Do you call and/or email your property manager with little or no response?

Do you feel like you are managing your property, but paying an agent?

Call us today to discuss how easy it is to transfer your management to a team who genuinely cares.

TUGGERANONG

Tel: 6296 5595

51 Comrie St, Wanniassa ACT 2903

Lic Agent Canberra South R/E Pty Ltd

for more information on DELUXE•HOMES visit our website at www.deluxehomes.com.au or phone 0418 632216 CityNews April 9-15 23

Elmslea Home + Land Packages

Chelsea 24

19 squares living

• Land size: over 1,200m2 • 4 bedrooms + ensuite • Floor coverings included • Driveways & Fencing incl.

Sirocco 7

22.5 Squares Living

• Land size: over 1,200m2 • 4 beds + ensuite • Reverse cycle air cond.

• Large ‘great’ room

$451,300

• Reverse cycle air cond.

• Choose your own colours • Dbl garage + int access • Optional alfresco area

$465,200

• Dbl garage + int access • Floor coverings incl.

• Driveway & Fencing incl.

• Rumpus room

Allenby

12.5 Squares Living

• Land size: 1,260m2 • 3 bedrooms + 2 way bath • Dirveway & Fencing incl.

• Floor coverings included

Accent

21 Squares Living

• 4 bedrooms + ensuite • Bonus ‘common’ room • Dbl garage + int access • Rumpus & family room

$496,500

• Reverse cycle air cond.

• Modern Knebel kitchen • Quality floor coverings • Driveway & Fencing incl.

Attention: 1st Homebuyers are eligible for $24,000 government grant + another $6,000 developers discount.

PH: 6297 7911

Chelsea 24

19 squares living

• Land size: 6.5 acres • 4 bedrooms + ensuite • Open plan living • Floor coverings included

$678,300

• Reverse cycle air cond.

• Dbl garage + int access • Optional alfresco area • Choose your own colours

Sirocco 7

22.5 Squares Living

• Land size: over 6 acres • 4 beds + ensuite • Reverse cycle air cond.

• Large ‘great’ room

$696,500

• Dbl garage + int access • Floor coverings incl.

• Rumpus room • A great family home

Heritage Estate 24.6 Squares Living $724,700

Chisolm Lodge 30 Squares Living $761,300

• Land size: 6.4 acres • 4 bedrooms + ensuite • Huge master bedroom • Dbl garage + int access

• Land size: 6.5 acres • 4 bedrooms + ensuite • Huge master bedroom • Dbl garage + workshop

• Rumpus & family room • Reverse cycle air cond.

• Quality floor coverings • Attractive rural home

• Rumpus & conservatory • Reverse cycle air cond.

• Modern Knebel kitchen • Quality floor coverings

All Royalla packages include a $20,000 allowance for water tank & septic system.

Only 8 bloc remainks ing

All packages are subject to site costs.

• Freehold Land — NO time limit to build and NO Government housing • 15mins to Queanbeyan, 20minutes to Fyshwick, 30minutes to the City centre • Close to shops, child care centre, schools, local cafes, restaurants, wineries & antique stores • Either choose from our great range of 3, 4 or 5 bedroom Home + Land packages or choose your own builder

Cnr McCusker & McMahon Dr, Bungendore

$424,250

• Choose your own colours • Single lock-up gar + int access • Reverse cycle air cond.

• Large open plan living area

Royalla Home + Land Packages

All packages are subject to site costs.

50% • FREEHOLD LAND — No time limit to build and NO community title already • Final Stage Now Selling! — Only 38 blocks ranging from 5 to 30 acres sold • Only 10 minutes to Calwell, 15 minutes to the Tuggeranong Town Centre, 30 minutes to the City • Either choose from our great range of 3,4 or 5 bedroom Home + Land packages or choose your own builder • Fully sealed roads, fully fenced, underground electricity, bus services, water bore or dam & ADSL2 Broadband

Call today to arrange your personal on-site inspection or email royallaestate@bigpond.com

State of the Art

PH:6238 0111

Heart of Forrest, an exquisite Terry Ring designed town residence. Formal lounge and dining room, 3 bedrooms and study, media room & 3 MMM designed bathrooms. Gourmet kitchen with enviable storage, bi-fold timber doors that bring the outdoor entertainment area indoors. Family room with floor to wall north facing windows & gas fireplace.

Magnificent master bedroom suite with huge dressing room & stunning ensuite. Sunny balcony with views to Parliament House. Secure 4 car garage, cellar & storage. A lift takes you to the basement or upper floor & a huge garage with automated turntable. Level stroll to Manuka. EER 5 Auction on site 11am Saturday 18th April

Built by Blackett Homes MBA National Award winning builder

Forrest 30 EMPIRE CIRCUIT

Robert Westropp-Evans 0419 365 666

Peter Blackshaw Manuka 6295 2433 [OFFICE DETAILS]

24 CityNews April 9-15

[AGENT DETAILS]

www.peterblackshaw.com.au

Banks

Queanbeyan

6 MENZIES COURT

39 MCCRAE STREET

Set in a quiet cul de sac this quality 3 bedroom plus study home enjoys gorgeous mountain views.

Superbly presented single level 4 bedroom home set on a level block backing parkland. Offering

Spacious living areas include formal lounge & a sundrenched family room with meals area open to a

formal & informal living areas, sun drenched family room & rumpus room. Features gourmet

great covered entertaining area. A large purpose built study has been professionally fitted & has the

kitchen, ducted gas heating, ducted evaporative cooling, ducted vacuum system & security alarm.

potential to be converted to a 4th bedroom. A triple garage is fitted with workbenches while there is

A large double garage provides the car accommodation plus additional off street parking for work

additional off street parking for boat or van. EER 4 Auction on site 3.30pm Saturday 2nd May

vehicle or boat. Auction on site 11.30am Saturday 2nd May

Manuka 6295 2433

Manuka 6295 2433

Paul Sutton 0407 099 175 or Robyn Sutton 0409 442 484

Paul Sutton 0407 099 175 or Robyn Sutton 0409 442 484

Jerrabomberra

Bungendore

74 WATERFALL DRIVE

31 MALBON STREET

Stylish spacious & saturated with an abundance of natural light, this executive home is set on a 1075 m2

One of the few commercial/residential blocks left with the potential to be economically developed (subject to

(approx) block backing reserve, enjoys great views & offers all the comforts of modern living. A spacious floor

council approval). On a large 1897m2 (approx) block in the centre of the village, only 25 minutes out from

plan offers separate formal & informal areas, a desirable northerly aspect, 4 bedrooms & double garage

Canberra on the main coastal route. This 2 bedroom cottage with modern kitchen & bathroom is a great

with internal access. Crafted & finished to the highest standard it boasts a modern kitchen with stainless

opportunity for first home buyers to live in now and invest in the future. Rare offering.

steel appliances & high ceilings in the family room. Auction on site 1.30pm Saturday 2nd May

Auction on site 9.30am Saturday 2nd May

Manuka 6295 2433

Manuka 6295 2433

Belconnen 6251 9111

Paul Sutton 0407 099 175 or Robyn Sutton 0409 442 484

Gungahlin 6241 9444

Inner North 6262 5122

www.peterblackshaw.com.au

Manuka 6295 2433

Paul Sutton 0407 099 175 or Robyn Sutton 0409 442 484

Tuggeranong 6296 7077

Woden 6282 4488 CityNews April 9-15  25

MurrumbatemanPROPERTIES MANTON PARK

OPEN SAT 2.30 - 3.30 PM

sold sold

sold sold

sold

sold

sold

sold sold

You will be impressed with this attractive rural location, its convenience, its easy commute and with Historic Yass town on your doorstep. Ready to build on, fully fenced building blocks range from 6 acres to 21 acres (2.6 ha to 8.8 ha), underground power, dam or bore to each building block, Telstra Smart Community, Council domestic & recycle collection, efcient mail delivery. If you are looking to live on country acreage without sacricing the conveniences, this is the place to be. Manton Park building block prices start from $205,000.

Follow Agency directional signage from Barton Hwy @ Yass roundabout, right into Yass Valley Way

PRICE: from $205,000

Appointments available all weekend.

13 Thoroughbred Drive

Lot 406 Vine Close

Cul-de-sac position

Live in the heart of Murrumbateman

With an all year round picturesque Vineyard as your backdrop, you will love the position of this Thoroughbred Drive building block offering some 7784 square metres and ready to build on.

No time limit to build, Fully fenced, Underground power, garden water, Mail delivery, Council domestic & recycle collection, Community tennis court, walk riding paths, School bus.

A unique position with a desirable Merryville Estate street address.

No through road position for this elevated, lovely 7734 square metre building block ready for your build; extensive rural views, underground power, garden water, fully fenced with recessed entry, secure mailbox.

Well appointed with proximity Murrumbateman Village, Restaurant/ Cafes, walking /cycling paths ........ you will be pleased with this perfectly convenient location. An opportunity to secure a quality building block in the very heart of Murrumbateman. You will love our lifestyle.

PRICE: $232,000 OPEN: Sat, Sun, Mon 2.30 - 3.30pm

PRICE: $249,000 OPEN: Sat, Sun, Mon 2:30 – 3:30 pm

LAND SALES Anne Williams 0418 26 CityNews April 9-15

207291 * Glyn Williams 0418 975343

allhomes.com.au

NEW Murrumbateman Land Subdivision offering

7

Quality Lots remaining

The smart, affordable lifestyle choice House & Land Packages from $366,000 www.murrumbateman-realestate.com.au

SOLD

Follow Agency directional signage from Barton Highway at Murrumbateman Village

SOLD

SOLD

SOLD

.30 2 om r f ON M / UN S / T A S n Ope SOLD • • •

m

p 0 3 .

-3

Building Blocks range from 6045 square metres to 8683 square metres House & Land packages available from leading NSW builder Masterton Homes Land prices start from $199,000

HOME SALES Cheryl O’BrienCityNews 0423April 201184 9-15 27

GJ2771

SOLD

first

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gathering Stop Taking Unnecessary Risks - Protect yourself from things that can go wrong Property Experts, Real Estate Agents, Finance Strategists, will be delivering powerful and necessary information to enable you to get it right the first time around.

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EXPERIENCE, MATURITY, DEDICATION Would you like your home or investment property managed by one of Canberra’s leading property management boutique agencies?

We aim to provide stress free property management.

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& ASSOCIATES

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LIC’D AGENT CANBERRA WIDE PTY LTD T/A RICHARD LUTON PROPERTIES • �� BOUGAINVILLE STREET, MANUKA ACT ����

P R O P E R T I E S

SPECIAL OFFER - LIMITED TIME ONLY. CALL NOW FOR DETAILS. WILL YOU VENTURE TO TALIESIN TO BE TOUCHED BY ITS NATURAL BEAUTY? Perfectly positioned to take advantage of everything this rich and diverse region has to offer, Taliesin is located only 24 kilometres from Canberra’s CBD, minutes to the airport and is set within a magnificent parcel of rural land. With guidelines designed to enhance and compliment the existing sheltered environment – this first release of 13 parcels of land (only 8 remaining) provides long term value by ensuring a rural residential lifestyle will be retained and enjoyed for years to come. This foundation has been achieved by the thoughtful placement of home sites that enjoy expansive views yet allow homes to retain privacy and shelter from the wind. The north-facing orientation ensures residents can take advantage of natural light and solar orientation. Lot sizes from 3.2 to 9.6 hectares.

AGENTS ON SITE SUNDAY �.����.��PM OR BY APPOINTMENT Directions: Follow the Kings Highway, turn onto Captains Flat Road, turn right at Wanna Wanna Road Details: Margrit Sedlacek 0402 024 447, Greg Hedger 0427 214 337

VT

28 CityNews April 9-15

Virtual Tours available online

BELCONNEN 6253 2323

DICKSON 6230 0005

MANUKA 6260 8999

TUGGERANONG 6293 2323

WESTON CREEK 6287 1600

WODEN 6281 6900

Canberra Central 6295 4999

www.prdcanberracentral.com.au

Bricks & Mortar Real Estate Pty Ltd trading as PRDnationwide Canberra Central 100 Giles Street Kingston ABN 89 521 891 951

HUGHES

www.twentysixatpoynton.com.au

3,4

2

2

ExCLUSivE oPPoRtUNity iN A PREMiUM LoCAtioN A change of lifestyle at 26 Poynton Street exists for those looking for something special. Whether downsizing or looking for an attractive and spacious town residence with style and low maintenance www.twentysixatpoynton.com.au will delight.

Nestled within this lovely suburb and conveniently located within a short walk to the local shops, these fantastic town residence also have the luxury of easy access to the Woden town centre, Manuka & Kingston shopping, reserves, playing fields and public transport.

A boutique development of four stunning two level residences, boasting modern architecture, clean lines and state of the art inclusions.

Three of the residences offer 3 bedroom accommodation and one offers 4 bedrooms. The four bedroom design has flexible living with the master bedroom positioned downstairs.

Features include: - 5 good sized bedrooms Including: - Master bed with ensuite, WIR and balcony • Individual ensuites to all 3 bedroom designs • Fully landscaped - Formal and informal lounge andirrigated living areas • Study Nook • Fully • Alarm system • LG home - Integrated audio system throughoutentertainment the homesystem with 42” LG plasma television • Remote garage doors • High level of finishes and fittings - 3climate car control garage with built in storage & storage • Ducted heating and cooling – inverter with • Modern Architecture clean lines and lots of northern sun

A feature rarely found is that all bedrooms enjoy their own ensuite, not just the master! This may be the ideal time to down size from your existing home or capture this limited opportunity to live in this highly sought after suburb. Completion Mid 2010. EER 5.5 - 6

• Video intercom • Ducted vacuum • High ceilings

• Large outdoor entertaining area

PRiCE: $710,000 - $770,000 oPEN: by appointment Jeremy Francis 0418 429 470 or Matthew Wenman 0421 350 518 jeremy@prdcanberracentral.com.au CityNews April 9-15 29

Badenoch says thanks to loyal clients SUCCESSFUL, boutique Canberra agency Badenoch Real Estate said a big “thank you” to loyal clients with a stylish cocktail and awards night at The Lobby Restaurant recently.

While the evening was principally to thank the agency’s clients, the occasion was also celebrated with various awards being presented to business associates and team members.

Looking for a property manager or are thinking of selling? You’d be hard-pressed to nd agents more experienced, more professional and more interested in getting the right result than the fabulous team at Badenoch Real Estate.

Heather Badenoch and Archie Tsirimokos

Marjorie and Malcolm Farrow

Christina Agresta, Sally Bowman with Janene and Dominic Commisso

Joanna Gash, Shannan and Paul Wilson with Lisa Chivers

For more information go to www.badenoch.com.au.

Mickayla Sams with Wanda Jones and Ian Jones

Rob Ivankovic, Heather Badenoch, Ivan Ivankovic and Ros Di Bartolo

Vicki and Peter Klouth with Kim Cosgrove

64/1 Beissel St Belconnen

Fax: 02 6264 0999

General/Sales Enquiries

Investment Property Management

Phone: 02 6264 0900

www.badenoch.com.au

bre@badenoch.com.au

bre@badenoch.com.au

Canberra’s best value Apartments

dable or

award

Land from $195,000* 1&2 Bedrooms from $292,900 EER5-6

Government grant of $21,000 for 1st home buyers**

IMAGINE THE NATURAL BEAUTY

of Canberra’s fastest selling community and winner of the HIA-CSR 2008 Best $IIRUGDEOH +RXVLQJ DZDUG IRU $&7 6RXWKHUQ 16: 1RZ LPDJLQH WKH EHQHßWVÞQHZ 3 bedroom homes with standard solar hot water, landscaping and water tanks, and easy access to schools, shops, community facilities and Belconnen Town Centre. Your time KDV FRPH WR GLVFRYHU %ULQGDEHOOD DW 0DFJUHJRUÞZKHUH GUHDPV DQG DIIRUGDELOLW\ PHHW

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* Land ready to build on now ** Conditions apply. Stamp duty $20 for home sales less than $340,000. Stamp duty concessions for land sales less than $233,200.

30 CityNews April 9-15

78 Sold!

Government grant of $21,000 for 1st home buyers* ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF LIVING IN BRUCE

one of Canberra’s most desirable suburbs. Located near beautiful parklands, the AIS, CIT, Canberra Stadium and Belconnen Mall, The Hub at Bruce offers an environmentally conscious, hassle-free lifestyle at an affordable price. The choice is yours…1 or 2 bedroom apartments in close proximity to numerous shopping, community and lifestyle conveniences and just 7 km to the City!

Phone Vlada on

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Releasing 18 April

0404 891 155

villagebuilding.com.au

Sales Office Thynne Street, near Kinloch Circuit, follow signs from Ginninderra Drive.

Open 10.30 - 4.30 Sat. * Conditions apply. Stamp duty $20 for 1 bedroom units.

THE

you’re home

BRIND_HUB_CN_145x260_06.04.09

EER5-6

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housin

best aff

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TO VIEW ALL PR OPER TIES www .lan yonr ealesta te .com.au PROPER OPERTIES www.lan .lany onrealesta ealestate te.com.au

CONDER

NEW LISTING

$390 000 - $440 000

3 bedrooms, Ensuite, Double Garage, Free-Standing!!

WANNIASSA

NEW LISTING

$390 000 - $430 000

Location, Price - Location, Price - Location, Price.

Free-standing from the others, located in a small complex , is this 123sqm (approx) 3 bedroom, ensuite townhouse. All bedrooms have mirror sliding door built-in robes & the main bedroom is segregated for your privacy. A functional kitchen with gas cook-top & a dishwasher looks out over the backyard & valley. The spacious open plan living can be warmed by the ducted gas heating when the cooler days set in. A double garage with internal access means no more running to the car when the frost returns & a rear deck is great for admiring the beautiful views of the valley. EER 4

.... and just in case you missed it – LOCATION, PRICE! Great property for today’s first home buyer (buy now to be sure of getting your FHOG - it could finish in June) and located just a hop, skip and well, maybe it’s a bit further to the Hyperdome but still, not too much further. Fresh and tidy 3 bedroom cottage in quiet crescent with no back neighbours. Gated yard with garage, carport & glorious, mature shade trees. One of the few available in this area in this price range, so make sure you see it early and be sure to bring your cheque book!

EER 1.5

Kate Williams 0408 186 532

Andrew York 0418 624 411

GORDON

NEW LISTING

$330 000 - $370 000

Dream Starter - An Excellent Choice for your First Home

This is a wonderful sun filled 3 bedroom home in an excellent Gordon location. First homebuyers and downsizers will be surprised by the extra bonuses - back to base security, quality screen doors, external shades on most windows, 2 foxtel outlets in the open plan lounge & meals area which enables you to change your furniture around, good sized kitchen with a modern rangehood, 2 way bathroom with a separate shower recess and bath, split system aircon, nice rear yard, timber deck, garden shed and carport.

EER 3.5

GORDON

Bargain Basement Price

You wont find a cheaper home this size in the valley, with 217m2 (23.4sq) of living, the owners are committed elsewhere, they need it sold now, its ready to move into, so you can bag a bargain. This large split level, 4 bedroom, ensuite home including rumpus and family room has all the toys, fully air-conditioned, ducted vacuum, covered deck, fantastic views, under house storage, close to all amenities, double garage under roof line, stencil concrete and landscaped yards and good street appeal complete the package.

EER 1.5

Paula Guy 0418 285 737 BANKS

$459 000

Immaculate Presentation!!

Bring the family, bring your furniture, get settled in, put your feet up & enjoy what this beautiful home has to offer. 4 Bedrooms, ensuite, huge double garage with internal access, rear roller door & rear glass doors, a great covered pergola leading to a secure, rear yard.

EER 4

Betty Wark 0408 166 833 BONYTHON

$390 000 - $430 000

Work in Greenway? Walk to work.

Just a gentle toddle from the Hyperdome, this 2 storey, 3 bedroom townhouse could save you a poultice in travel costs. Small complex, sunny kitchen and meals area, powder room, double garage, enormous main bedroom, ensuite and covered balcony. Do yourself a favour – see it.

EER 4

Andrew York 0418 624 411

GORDON

Wayne Kennedy 0414 622 926 $369 000

First Home Buyers Take Note!

Elevated 3 bedroom split level townhouse with a double garage & workshop in a quiet cul–de-sac location. Two living areas, ducted heating & cooling, functional kitchen with gas cook top. Sliding doors to the balcony, with magnificent views, rear terraced easy care landscaped yard.

EER 2.5

Wayne Kennedy 0414 622 926 CHISHOLM

$499 950

GORDON

Class & Style in a Perfect Packag!!

Built with quality fittings and kitted out with quality inclusions, this home certainly exudes charm and style. 4 bedrooms, ensuite, powder room, formal lounge & dining, spacious family & meals area, big rumpus room, sewing room 2 x double garages & much more!!

EER 4

Betty Wark 0408 166 833

$640 000 BONYTHON

5 Bedrooms + OFFICE + Pretty Garden

This is a magnificent home overflowing with class, space and attention to detail. Large formal lounge & dining with solid hardwood floors, huge kitchen, great family room, purpose built office, 5 bedrooms, ensuite, dramatic pergola covered deck, landscaped grounds, 4 car garage.

EER 1

Paula Guy 0418 285 737

$659 000

$499 000

185 sqm – 20 Square of Living!! * Excellent location – Walk to the Hyperdome. * 4 Brms, ensuite, WIR, Sep Formal & Informal areas. * Even 3 toilets, 2 courtyards, inslab heating & RCAC. * Double Garage with internal access & Remotes * No Body Corp Fees–Just easy care living!! EER 4

Betty Wark 0408 166 833

BANKS

$449 000

Plenty of Living Areas – Inside & Out!!

Fantastic 4 bedroom ensuite family home with gas heating & cooking. 2 x RCAC. Sep lounge, dining & family rooms plus a large covered rear deck leading to a private, secure rear yard & a full length covered front verandah. Double car accom & storage add to the appeal.

EER 4

Betty Wark 0408 166 833 CLEAR RANGE

$380 000 - $420 000

Rare River Frontage Land

Freehold elevated land with Murrumbidgee River frontage, 18ha (44 acres) not far from from Lanyon.

Approved building envelope with several house sites all with river views in unspoiled native forest, all this and the privacy of country life just a short drive from the ACT. Build your dream home in paradise!!

Wayne Kennedy 0414 622 926

CityNews April 9-15 31

Based on our most recent statistics we believe 90% of ACt home buyers find their property . on

save money, ask your agent to‌

try 32  CityNews April 9-15

first!