Canberra CityNews October 15-21, 2009

CityNews October 15-21 

  CityNews October 15-21

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Andrew pops the question

briefly Mike’s top of the talk, again DRIVE show presenter Mike Welsh, of 2CC, has won the Best Talk Presenter in the provincial categories of the 21st Australian Commercial Radio Awards. It is the third consecutive year he has won this award.

Ashleigh Hudson, of 104.7/MIX 106.3, won Best Newcomer Off-Air and 104.7 won best sales promotion. Commercial Radio Australia CEO Joan Warner said: “Canberra is well serviced by its commercial radio stations which continually strive to provide the best radio possible for their audiences. That they have been recognised at a national level shows the excellent quality and standard of commercial radio in Canberra.”

By Jorian Gardner

OPENLY gay Minister Andrew Barr will enter into a civil union with partner Anthony Toms next month, just as the ACT Legislative Assembly attempts another run at putting forward same-sex partnerships legislation similar to that recently passed in Tasmania.

“I have joined the gym to be fit and lean for what is a particularly significant event for me next month,” Minister Barr told “CItyNews” somewhat coyly.

“I asked and he said ‘yes’! I think we have one of the longest engagements ever – we’ve been together 10 years.”

“So, after all that time, I am really looking forward to celebrating our relationship and entering into a formal civil partnership. It’s very exciting and something that is occupying my thoughts and time at the moment.

“For me, it’s always been about making that public statement. It’s going to be a small,

INDEX October 15-21, 2009

Since 1993: Volume 15, Number 40

Arts&Entertainment Body Dining Fashion Health&Fitness Letter Movie reviews News Politics Property Puzzles Social Scene Women in Business

33-35 38-39 35 36 40 15 34 3-13 6 31-40 41 15-16 17-32

A word from Waterford Andrew Barr and partner Anthony Toms… “I asked and he said ‘yes’! I think we have one of the longest engagements ever – we’ve been together 10 years.” private affair with for family and friends.

“I won’t be sending out a press release or anything like that!” he laughed.

“There will be no ‘Women’s Day’, double-page spreads! I suspect there might be some interest from the local media, but I want to keep it very low key.”

Barr has been a long-time supporter of the Civil Partnerships Bill and has again thrown his weight behind Labor’s decision to reintroduce same-sex legislation at the behest of the Green’s with some minor amendments.

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COVER PHOTO: Telstra ACT Business Woman of the Year Veronica Wensing. Story Page 11.

Photo by Silas

Jeanette Schofield

By Jorian Gardner BACKBENCH newcomer Joy Burch has been elected unopposed by the Labor caucus to the ministry following the formal resignation of John Hargreaves.

Chief Minister Jon Stanhope, announcing her promotion, said he expected her to take on the previous Minister’s responsibilities and ruled out any major reshuffle of the Cabinet. He would announce her portfolios by month’s end.

The always-colourful Hargreaves will stand down as a minister from October 31. He will move to the backbench for the remainder of his term.

“I am tired,” he said. “I don’t need it anymore. I leave the ministry of my own volition, for personal reasons.”

The minister blamed the media for the big part he believed it had played in his demise saying that some journalists, specifically some from ABC local radio and “The Canberra Times”, “do not know the damage that they do”.

Mr Hargreaves rattled off a list of achievements from his various portfolios over the years sighting his creation of community fire units and community policing as some of his highlights.

Joy Burch.

“The portfolio of Multicultural Affairs was very dear to me,” Mr Hargreaves said. “I worked hard to make Canberra’s model of multiculturalism the most successful in the country and the ACT is now internationally acclaimed for its approach to cultural diversity.

“However, the item that gives me the greatest personal satisfaction is the banning of consumer fireworks and I thank all those Canberrans who have contacted me to express their support for the Government’s decision.”

Michael Moore: How Hargreaves made Stanhope look weak – Page 6 Burch gets big break – Page 11

Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au Senior writer and arts editor: Jorian Gardner, 0415 516286 Lifestyle editor: Kathryn Vukovljak, 6262 9100 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 Distribution and circulation: Richard Watson, 6262 9100

JGD

41,165 copies a week Six-month audit to March 31, 2009

Responsibility for election comment is taken by Ian Meikle, of Suite 1, Level 1, 143 London Circuit, Canberra.

The Team

Sue Mortimer

Restless Barr hints at career move – Page 4

CANBERRA journalist Jack Waterford is the guest speaker at the ACT Association for Advancing Disabled Sport and Recreation fundraising lunch at The Brassey Hotel, Barton, on Thursday October 29. In its 16 years, ACTAADS has raised nearly $400,000 for grants to people with disabilities, some of whom have distinguished themselves as Paralympic athletes. The three-course lunch and drinks cost $75, and Kim on 6248 8175 or kim@khanna.com. au is taking bookings.

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Belconnen CityNews October 15-21

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Restless Barr hints at move EXCLUSIVE

By Jorian Gardner

ANDREW Barr has hinted that he would consider the option of moving to another city or even to federal politics to further pursue his political ambitions after he feels his work in the ACT Assembly is done.

“It is not the only political arena in Australia and this is not the only city in Australia,” the 36-year-old Education Minister Barr told “CityNews” in a frank and exclusive interview.

“I am not tied down to Canberra forever and it (the job) doesn’t mean you are tied down to one parliament if you want to continue a political career.

“Federal politics is an option, but… there are no vacancies at this point in time nor am I expecting any.”

However, Federal Labor Member for Fraser, Bob McMullen, has already announced the next election will be his last and Canberra member Annette Ellis is also rumoured to be considering standing down – so there is a possibility in the future.

Widely regarded as a future leader, even by the Chief Minister, Barr said that he is leaving all his options open at this stage.

“I think he (Mr McMullen) has indicated that he will stand at the next election and that will be his last so that’s along time

CityNews October 15-21

away – that pushes things out to 2013, and that’s four years away so who knows where people will be at that point,” Minster Barr said.

“I am not so driven to think that the only thing for me is the Assembly… you have to weigh up where you can make your best contribution – in public and in your private life. One of the neat things about politics is that each election cycle forces you to look at your future.

“You have got to have your eyes open to life beyond politics here; I am not going to spend 20 years in the place (the Assembly). I think there are some people around (my office) that have bigger leadership ambitions (locally) for me than I have for myself.

“I don’t want to be in the place when I am 55 because that would have meant that I would have spent 23 years there! You’ve got to think about what you do beyond that (the Assembly), there is a danger of spending to much time in that place, and without wanting to name names, there are some in the 20 years of self government and some who are currently in the Assembly who have spent too long there,” he said.

“However, I made a commitment in 2008 to serve a four-year term and I have a lot of interesting areas in which I am working and a lot of things that I feel are half complete that I want to see through.”

Shoeboxes of Christmas cheer MLA Alistair Coe joins the Holden clan – Hannah (9), mum Alissa, Caleb (4) and Joseph (6) – as they pack shoeboxes as part of Operation Christmas Child, a project of the Samaritan’s Purse charity.

Each year thousands of shoeboxes are filled by children and adults with gifts for young people in a variety of countries around the world who could use some Christmas cheer.

The Holdens have been packing shoeboxes for the charity for five years.

“We just love doing it,” said Alissa.

Last year, 23,867 shoeboxes were collected from the ACT/Southern NSW region and 304,000 nationally. This year, gifts will be sent to Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and the South Pacific.

To volunteer, or to find out more information contact 1800 684300 or visit www.samaritanspurse. org.au.

Photo by Silas.

CityNews October 15-21 

GIVE YOUR CHILD A HEAD START Find out about an exciting proposal to establish a bilingual (Mandarin/English) childcare centre at the University of Canberra.

Saturday 24 October 2009 2pm until 3.30 pm University of Canberra, Building 2, Room B2 Refreshments provided

RSVP by 22 October to canberrapanda@gmail.com.au

Fair Work Act 2009 – What it means for you Speakers: Allyson Hine, Bradley Allen Lawyers, Elissa Speight, Blake Dawson and Murray Campbell, ActewAGL When: Monday 19 October 2009 Time: 4pm to 6pm Venue: Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit Barton

Property Council Golf Classic

When: Thursday 22 October 2009 Venue: Federal Golf Club, Red Hill Proudly sponsored by NDH Property Services

Division Luncheon with the Hon. Lindsay Tanner MP

When: Wednesday 28 October 2009 Time: 12:00 to 2:00pm Venue: Hyatt Hotel Canberra Proudly sponsored by Commonwealth Bank

Site Inspection @ Foresight, 53 Wentworth Avenue, Kingston

COUNCIL of Australia

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When: Thursday 29 October 2009 Time: 3:30pm to 5pm Proudly sponsored by Knight Frank

PROPERTY

ACT Association for Advancing Disabled Sport and Recreation

Presents

A lunch and auction to raise funds for ACT people with a disability to help them at work or engage in their favourite recreation or sport. With speaker, journalist Jack Waterford.

CityNews October 15-21

Date: Thursday, October 29 TIME: 12 for 12.30pm VENUE: The Brassey Hotel, Barton Cost: $75 enquiries: 6239 7919 or 0409 308410

How Hargreaves made Stanhope look weak IT was generous of the Chief Minister to allow his Minister for Messing Things Up to fall on his sword. Jon Stanhope has emerged looking even weaker than before, after this latest foray with the wayward John Hargreaves.

It was a weakness not to fire Hargreaves over the drink-driving incident in 2006.

Hargreaves was Transport Minister at the time and it was only months since he had been replaced as the Minister for Police.

There was no issue about power in the factions at that time and Stanhope’s hold on Chief Minister was completely secure.

Having been appointed Minister for Corrections after the 2008 elections, Hargreaves had to manage the unrealistic opening date expectations that had been set in the pre-election spin. Ironically, the poor management of this project landed on the hapless Hargreaves even though it was one of the occasions that he did not bring it on himself. However, in the public mind the issue added to the perception of a weak minister that could not be moved because of his factional strength.

More recently, Stanhope looked particularly soft over the way Hargreaves sprung the fireworks decision on Cabinet and forced it through despite the obvious reluctance of the Chief Minister. This sponginess in the leadership was further emphasised when it was revealed by “City News” that Hargreaves had spent considerable sums of money on polling that was ignored because it was not consistent with his own opinion.

The Fringe Festival fiasco provided

Organised by a Canberra non-prot organisation with 25 years experience in bilingual childcare (see http://alma.anu.edu)

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

news

Fun in the ‘woods’

IF you’d gone down to the woods (well, the Tuggeranong Town Park), you’d have been in for a big surprise with the Teddy Bear’s Picnic in full swing. That’s where snapper, Silas Brown found this excited quartet – from left, Jasmyn Mowell, Chloe Guntor, Olivia Kirkculdie and Gabrielle Pike – having fun at the annual ‘Round Town event with the grand teddy bear’s parade just getting in ahead of the rumbling storm that sent everyone home. And far right, Jacob Kowalski gets into the space theme as R2D2 from “Star Wars”.

Politics

By Michael Moore

Porter deserved a go

IT now seems that the right-wing faction has stomped on Chief Minister Jon Stanhope over the miniserial appointment of backbencher Joy Birch, who is new in the Assembly and lacks the experience of the other contender.

Mary Porter deserved a chance as a minister. She would have brought enthusiasm, ability and compassion to portfolios such as disabilities, housing, corrections and multicultural affairs.

Stanhope could have shown some strength by standing up to the right faction and appointing his own minister.

Michael Moore another embarrassment that required a public chastisement and ripping control of the event out of Hargreaves hands and back to the Chief Minister. Between the fireworks and the Fringe Festival issues it seems that Hargreaves was just off doing his own thing without keeping the rest of Cabinet in the loop.

Perhaps he just became cocky knowing that his faction had the power to remove Stanhope if it were deemed necessary. But timing is everything in politics and now this opportunity has dissipated. Had Hargreaves and Barr used their factional power

to move on the Chief Minister it would now be Jon Stanhope falling on his own sword.

The Bresnan apology (or lack thereof) seems to have provided the last nail for Hargreaves’ ministerial coffin. Perhaps it is the arrogance of power and ministerial leather that made it so hard for Hargreaves to genuinely say sorry for the embarrassment that he had caused.

With the announcement that Hargreaves would be stepping down, the Chief Minister was suddenly able to elaborate on the positive aspects. Apparently, Stanhope believes that “no-one who has met John Hargreaves could have any doubt about his dedication to this city, nor about his genuine commitment to the areas of service delivery over which he has presided as Minister”.

If Stanhope was not able to contain Hargreaves within the tight constricts of Cabinet solidarity, how will he manage him on the backbench? He waxed lyrical on the departure: “I am sure the people of Brindabella are glad that he will remain representing them in the Assembly as a local member. I am certain that he will continue to advance their interests vigorously, as a crucial member of the Labor Caucus”.

It is hard to believe that there is not more pain coming for the Chief Minister from the new backbencher, who told reporter Jorian Gardner (with a smile on his face): “What I will say is that I give Jon Stanhope as much loyalty as he gives me.”

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

CityNews October 15-21 

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C L I N I C S

Still crazy after

Few people look forward to having braces put on or adjusted but, says MEGAN HAGGAN, it’s a bit more fun when the orthodontist is decked out in a Hawaiian shirt and lei, pyjamas or a wig.

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CityNews October 15-21

“IT’S about having fun with patients; I learned a long time ago that being professional isn’t about being serious all the time – it’s doing good work, but making the whole experience a bit more fun,” says Dr Michael Hyde Michael, the city-based orthodontist who believes that having our teeth done doesn’t need to be a miserable experience.

“When I opened my own practice 11 years ago, I thought what would my daughters like out of an orthodontist? If you think about what would be best for your family, you deliver the right message, and it’s coming from the right place,” he told “CityNews”.

Michael’s daughters, Lauren and Siobhan, are now 23 and 21 (and with straight teeth, thanks to their dad).

He’s celebrating 21 years in practice in Canberra this month.

The “fun days” began when Michael began wearing Disney socks and waistcoats to work – “I got a great reaction when I went to the shops in a character waistcoat and bow tie!” – and grew from there.

Understanding what makes kids tick is the reason why his surgery has Foxtel tuned to a music station and games consoles in a waiting room.

“I wanted to treat the kids the way I’d want my own kids to be treated. For example, I booked out Intencity at the height of its popularity and took about 600 patients there for three hours, and the kids just went crazy on all the machines.

“We see a lot of kids run out of the elevator and

straight in here, especially the little kids with brothers or sisters who are having work done; or kids will bring their school friends along. It gets pretty busy in here.”

It’s clear that Michael loves his work.

“People ask me: ‘How can you stand looking in people’s mouths all the time?’ but to me that’s not the issue; it’s about working with young people and creating their smiles at a time when their whole life and personality is changing.

“Creating a beautiful smile and watching the young person flourish and become more confident within themselves is wonderful.”

It’s very common for parents who’ve undergone orthodontic treatment themselves to be surprised at how much less painful their children’s experience is, Michael says.

“Some have had treatment themselves in the past and so they can really appreciate why we’re taking a different line.

“Or, on the other hand, they might not have had treatment when they needed it: And when they see their children get a beautiful result they book in themselves! It’s pretty different to what they went through.”

Michael says he owes his outlook on life to his mum and dad, who arrived in Australia from India with very little.

“They basically had to start all over again, and they were both really community-minded.

“They taught me to be generous and not let material possessions be everything to me.”

all these years

Dr Michael Hyde and staff… “Being professional isn’t about being serious all the time.”

CityNews October 15-21

opinion

Hey, hey, it’s not okay I WAS not at all offended by the now infamous “Red Faces” black-face skit on “Hey, Hey It’s Saturday”, but I knew that many others would be; I knew it would cause untold drama for the program and those associated with it.

The makers of “Hey Hey” should have been smart enough to stop the skit from going to air. In 2009, you can’t put black paint on your face, wear an Afro wig and play the fool.

This isn’t about whether you or I found it offensive. It’s about the fact that a large number of the audience would have found it racially offensive and it is against the law to racially vilify on mainstream media.

I run some pre-recorded comedy on my radio program each morning at 2CC. I’ve occasionally featured Dave Prior, who was responsible for the “Kevin Bloody Rudd” song that got a bit of a run in national media in 2007. He sent me a copy of his

Broadcaster MARK PARTON puts on a brave face over the black faces in “Red Faces”. latest album, “My Soup’s Too Hot” last month. I found most of it really funny, but there were many of the tracks I wouldn’t dream of playing on air.

Some of them feature stories about an indigenous friend of Dave’s, complete with a send-up Aboriginal accent. They made me laugh when I previewed them in the CD player in my car, but I was instantly aware that I couldn’t play them on air. There was a time in my broadcast life when it would have been acceptable.

That time is long gone.

Argue all you like about whether this is political correctness gone crazy, but you can’t escape the reality.

The News Limited websites ran a poll online in the days after the “Hey Hey” skit.

More than 30,000 readers voted. Nearly 70 per cent said that they didn’t find the skit racist or offensive in any way. That’s not the point. The point is that 30 per cent did. It’s certainly not surprising that “Red Faces” judge singer Harry Connick Jr, a resident of New Orleans was among those who were offended.

Black-face entertainment is a symbol of oppression in the US. If such a skit had been performed on stage in New Orleans, it may well have led to arrests. Some of the same sensitivities also apply here.

I think the fact that most Australians don’t understand what the fuss is about probably illustrates that we are not a racist nation. We are culturally ignorant on that front. Sometimes ignorance is bliss... in this case it’s not.

The week we go to water environment

By Tanya Davies

Guest Speaker: Bernard Salt CBC’s 30 Year Anniversary Dinner celebrating the successes of the previous year and acknowledging those who have contributed to the strength of the ACT and Capital region economy.

Hotel Realm, Barton 7.00pm, Thursday 29 October 2009

HOW TO DEAL WITH THE OHS & EMPLOYMENT LAW CHANGES Detailed discussion on the management & impact that the

OHS changes will have on small business Meyer Vandenberg , 1 Farrell Pl, Canberra 7.45am-9.00am, Wednesday 11 Nov

OHS & EMPLOYMENT LAW OVERVIEW

Overview of recent changes that have come in related to ACT Work Safety & the current stage & timetable for introduction of the National OHS changes.

Meyer Vandenberg ,1 Farrell Pl, Canberra 7.45am-9.00am, Wednesday 28 Oct 2009 Register at www.canberrabusinesscouncil.com.au or phone 02 6247 4199

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ANNUAL GALA DINNER AND BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

DESPITE all the rain, water saving is as important as ever. And there’s heaps happening around Canberra this month to celebrate National Water Week and raise awareness of our most precious resource.

One thousand Canberra students from around 50 schools will take part in the MDBA International River Conference from October 18-20. Along with another 1000 students from around Australia and NZ, these young people will put the hard questions to politicians Greg Hunt, Christine Milne and Nick Xenophon and campaigners from Make Poverty History, World Vision and Change & Switch.

The difference with this event is that it is lead by the students.

“Kids Teaching Kids” environmental conferences were conceived 10 years ago

by Arron Wood on the banks of the Murray, with the help of his dad who was then a school principal in Mildura. Arron, who won Environmentalist of the Year in 2007, says: “Adults take a back seat at this event as kids from all over Australia teach each other about environment issues and take

Woo hoo, it’s National Water Week… Here come the international river conference participants. part in hands-on environment projects.

“What makes this event so popular and effective is that kids teach each other in much more interesting creative ways than the usual classroom format, with songs, dance, poems, drama, games, interactive quizzes and crafts.”

National Water Week’s focus this year is on the community.

Tom Mollenkopf, CEO of the Australian Water Association, said: “There is a real interest from the community in becoming more literate on water-related matters.”

Research at the ANU will help this, by identifying specific habits of household water use. Kate Harriden is conducting a second year of her water study by asking

Canberrans to keep a water diary for National Water Week.

Margaret Ning, from Ngunnawal, made a water diary last year. “We already had a number of water-saving practices in place, but it helped us think about how to reduce our use more,” said Margaret.

Together with husband Geoff she has reduced their water use from about 30 kilolitres to just three kilolitres. Her biggest tip? Use grey water from the washing machine or tank water to flush the toilet.

“I think it’s criminal to use mains water that has been chlorinated or fluoridated to flush the toilet,” she said.

For more National Water Week events go to www.nationalwaterweek.org.au.

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Friday 16 October 10am - 6pm Saturday 17 October 10am - 5pm Sunday 18 October 10am - 3pm Hotel Realm - 18 National Circuit, Barton. ACT. 10 CityNews October 15-21

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Burch gets big break Joy who? With barely a year on the backbench, there’s a new addition to the ministry.

JORIAN GARDNER puts a face to the name.

JOY Burch is just getting over the fact she got elected to the Assembly, let alone the fact that she is about to become a Minister on Labor’s front bench.

She will take over from gaffe-prone John Hargreaves when he retires to better health on the backbench on October 31.

“I came in here not having pre-conceived expectations, but at least I am not scratching my head so much now!” she says with a laugh.

“I was pleased and surprised to be elected, and I want to continue to honour that (her election), not only to my colleagues here but to the wider community who put me here.

“I am new and I will be supporting the members of this government. I will do what my colleagues ask me to do.”

Well, Joy, your colleagues have asked you to be a Minister.

Burch was a surprise in the election last year, beating sitting member Mick Gentleman in Brindabella.

She trained as a nurse, complete with graduate and post-graduate qualifications.

She has managed her own childcare business and community health and support services, and worked in policy roles in both the government and non-government sectors. She is married with three sons and

cover story

Veronica wins top business title

By Kathryn Vukovljak

Joy Burch… “There have been some tough times, but I have learnt how to handle the personal stuff that gets thrown around the Assembly.”

Photo by Silas. lives in Tuggeranong.

“I have over 30 years’ experience in the healthcare, childcare and education sectors and am passionate about making life better for our community,” she says.

Burch is aware of the difficult road ahead and says she is lucky she has already had a year under her belt to get to know the way that her new workplace works.

“There have been some tough times, but I have learnt how to handle the personal stuff that gets thrown around the Assembly. I might exchange words with the Opposition in the committee process and so on, but we still pass each other on the stairs and say ‘g’day’ – it’s all good,” she says.

or

“We are all here for a common purpose after all.”

Perhaps Education Minister Andrew Barr might be looking over his shoulder, because when Burch rattles off her policy passions, there appears to be really only one.

“I have a keen interest in education, but for me it’s not just the schools debate, it’s about lifelong learning,” she says.

“We need a good public education system.

I mean, you see 15-year-old kids hanging around on the streets, so we need to work out how to re-engage them. As a society, we need to work out how to deal with everyone, including the many square pegs that don’t fit in round holes!”

VERONICA Wensing, executive officer of Canberra Rape Crisis Centre, is this year’s Telstra ACT Business Woman of the Year.

“I was in disbelief when I won the category award, let alone the overall one!” Veronica told “CityNews” moments after the announcement was made at a function at Parliament House.

“But it’s fantastic – great for the centre. Anything that exposes these issues to a mainstream audience is exactly what we need.”

Veronica oversees the centre, which provides round-theclock phone support for people affected by sexual violence, legal and medical advocacy services, face-to-face counseling, community education and input into government policy and reforms.

“I’m the first executive officer we’ve had – previously it was a collective,” says Veronica. “I make sure we link back to those roots and try to be as collaborative as possible.

“In the four years I’ve been

here I’ve worked hard on ‘professionalising’ our image – although we’re not-for-profit, we are primarily a business.”

Veronica says her motivation is to bring attention to issues affecting the rights of men and women, and to inspire other women to contribute to collective action.

Her next project is implementing the Respectful Relationships program in schools.

“I want to work on prevention rather than cure,” she says.

Veronica will now progress to the national finals in Melbourne on November 12.

Category winners: The White Pages Community and Government Award: Veronica Wensing, Canberra Rape Crisis Centre.

Commonwealth Bank Business Owner Award: Vicki Berry, Easycare Landscapes.

Hudson Private and Corporate Sector Award: Joanne Metcalfe, GHD. marie claire Young Business Women’s Award: Kelly Tunney, Kelly Tunney Photographer.

Award winners will also compete for the national award in their category.

“CityNews” Women in Business feature starts Page 17

or

CityNews October 15-21 11

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letter

Floriade disappoints Canberra visitor

Where perfume fills the air Words: Kathryn Vukovljak Photos: Silas Brown

GORGEOUS perfumes fill the air at Peronelle Windeyer’s unique, personal and waterwise Red Hill garden, with Himalayan daphne, wisteria, lilies, peonies and roses in abundance.

The garden will be open to the public on Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25 as part of Australia’s Open Garden Scheme, a selffunding, not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote the pleasure of gardening.

The garden is screened beautifully from the street and has been developed over 26 years, changing as the family’s children grew up and less lawn was required. A tough summer grass,

12 CityNews October 15-21

called conquest couch, has since been laid to save water.

Many shrubs, peonies, small bulbs and woodland plants were brought to the garden from Peronelle’s father Barney Hutton’s garden in Mt Macedon, Victoria, following his death in 2005.

A passionate plant collector, relocating many of the rare plants he propagated – some of which are unique to Canberra – makes for a special garden that reflects an English childhood and provides familiar, living memories for the Windeyers.

A deciduous azalea bed is evolving into a woodland-like area with maples to shade English wood anemone and beautiful and rare trilliums from North America. Self-sown sweet william, love-in-the-mist and other plants fill

in spaces in the garden, which is much loved by the owners without being a burden. Salad greens, rhubarb, blackcurrants, apricots, quinces, limes, lemons and passion fruit also flourish, and with 10 water tanks installed, everything is fed by captured rainwater.

Proceeds from the opening will go to the Open Garden Scheme and to Mahboba’s Promise, a charity founded by Mahboba Rawi to support Afghani widows and children.

The Windeyer garden, 50 Golden Grove, Red Hill, will be open to the public on Saturday, October 24 and Sunday, October 25 from 10am to 4.30pm. More information at www.opengarden. org.au.

I CANNOT recall the last time I penned a serious letter of complaint.

During the week of the Floriade Night Fest my daughter and I took time off work to travel and supposedly enjoy the Canberra Floriade. We had read the internet marketing, particularly the additional information for the Night Fest. It had been a few years since my last visit to Floriade.

To say we were disappointed this year would be a gross understatement. Where to begin?

The hyped designer rooms and special sections within the Floriade precinct were huge letdowns.

Our perceptions were that they appeared to have been commissioned almost as an afterthought.

While two had obviously spent considerable sums of money on labor and construction costs – they provided nil impact. They could best be described as bland and emotionless. The number of people (that we observed) who streamed past without bothering to stop and look simply confirmed our opinions.

The notion gleaned from the internet and related marketing was that for an admission price of $20 per person we would be provided at Night Fest with an almost carnival atmosphere with roving entertainers, a variety of events/entertainers running concurrently and spectacular lighting and effects.

Nothing, absolutely nothing, met our expectations.

Value for money: Nil. When we reflect that a team with wages and resources spent time and effort constructing this event, our view is they missed delivery on the core objectives (captured in the marketing) of excitement, beauty, visual and emotional impact. Rather our view is that your teams were obsessed and focused on the $$$ return.

Bob Lee, Glenbrook, NSW

CityNews October 15-21  13

14  CityNews October 15-21

scene

More photos at www.facebook.com/canberracitynews

At the opening night of Circus Oz, At the Camp Quality esCarpade bon voyage dinner, Hellenic Club, Woden Canberra Theatre, Civic

Angus, Ian and Madison Tidy with Layla and Lynette Wilson

Jeffrey Song, Karen Westlake, Fiona Song, Tom Luxton and Lydia Shipton

Ruth Osborne, Kathryn Newham and Paul O'Keeffe

Nicole McAnulty and Georgia Carmichael

Wiliam Hall, Mike Finch and Bruce Carmichael

Zoe Cartledge and Ellen Warner

Keryn and Michael Zissler with Ivan and Anna Slavich

Richard Hedley, Philip Kouvelis and George Volis

Narelle Henderson, Cathy Norton and Wendy Duggan

Tahnee McGrath, Elissa Michel and Roselyn Salloum

Alastair Parker and Mai-lih Phan

Jessica Reimer and Adam Kercher

Jacqueline Stenhouse, Kelly Muckle and Michelle Whyte

Mark Duggan, Clinton Henderson and Brett Norton

Alana Austin and Michael Hyde

Karen Anderson, Wayne Fleming and Jessica Bereth

CityNews October 15-21  15

scene

Invite us at silas@citynews.com.au

At the CAPO Ball launch, Government House

Governor-General Quentin Bryce with Gail Lubbock

Karina Harris, Neil Hobbs and Peter Vandermark

Ian Whyte and Maree van Arkel

16  CityNews October 15-21

Doug Francis, Karen and Nicole Smith, Charlotte Wheeler and Ivana Stojanovic

John and Anthoula Fragopoulos with Bill and Militza Stojanovic

Elizabeth and Anton Voveris with Wally Ludzwioweit and Julie McPhail

Colin MacDonald, Ele Weber, Penny Jurkiewicz Glenn Hughes and Rosemary Willoughby

Susan Ellis, Rebecca Lindsay and Deborah Lyons

Marilyn Gray, Dianne West, Michael Bryce and Anne McMahon

Anne Caine, Bruce Gale and Arthur Gray

At the Peppered Prawn cocktail party, Phillip

Denise Higgins, Denise Ferris and Sandie Little

Zoe Darcy, Louise Whyte, Andrew Magnussen and Jo Wilson

Pam Chilman, Margaret Russell and Anne Jenkin

Bill Mason, Gilbert Labour and Greg Gallagher

CityNews October 15-21  17

Home is where Laurie’s heart is ARMED only with a credit card and one investment property, entrepreneur Laurie McDonald started Canberra Furnished Accommodation while she was on maternity leave in 2003.

“Initially it was to meet a nancial need and to enable me to stay at home with Connor for longer,” she says.

“It was never my intention to start a large business but now that it’s evolved I’ve become passionate about business itself – I’m fascinated by how a good business keeps going and base my own philosophy on quality, excellence, passion and balance.”

Just because you’re not at home it doesn’t mean you should be without your comforts.

Sponsored by

Balance is the key for Laurie, who won ACT Business Woman of the Year in August – being able to work around raising her two young sons is the most important thing in her life, and something she has extended into the workplace.

“When Bailey arrived in 2005 I knew it was time to expand, as I couldn’t cope with a newborn, a toddler and the business,” she says. “So we took on more properties, opened commercial premises and hired staff – all within eight weeks! It was a huge challenge but it has been amazing.

“Making the ofce a family-friendly environment was a natural progression for me, since I started out for the same reasons,” says Laurie. “Kids are welcome in the ofce and we work around school hours for those that need it.”

DIRECTOR

Canberra Furnished Accommodation Shop 10, 55 Kembla Street, Fyshwick www.canberrafurnished.com.au Phone: 6295 0975 Email: info@canberrafurnished.com.au Laurie now owns or manages 37 properties and provides fully furnished corporate and holiday accommodation for long or short stay in residential locations across Canberra.

“I love matching clients to the ideal property for their needs – even if it means asking lots of questions!” she laughs. “I see it as part of the service we provide.

I’m also passionate about interior design, and creating a home away from home – somewhere that’s not as impersonal as a hotel, but doesn’t feel like someone else’s house either.

“Just because you’re not at home it doesn’t mean you should be without your comforts. That’s why I include things like an espresso machine and throw rugs on the sofa for those cold Canberra nights.”

Laurie’s success in balancing work and home life has led to public speaking engagements about how she does it.

“I talk about juggling everything in our lives and how to keep those balls in the air,” she says. “I’ve really come to enjoy the talks and getting feedback from people who have been touched by what I’ve said and want to change their lives too.”

Canberra Furnished Accommodation has just implemented online bookings. “Business is constantly changing and you have to change with it or you’ll stagnate,” says Laurie.

Laurie McDonald… “Kids are welcome in the ofce and we work around school hours for those that need it.”

Avida

aesthetic & wellness clinic canberrafurnished.com.au

18 CityNews October 15-21

Toni Goodyer

Toni Friend

MANAGER

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

I HAVE been the manager at Acacia Hair for the past ve years, but I started my apprenticeship here nine years ago. This career is what not what I saw myself doing as a school leaver, but the job found me all those years ago and I would not change a thing.

The interaction with different people is what I love the most. My clients range from babies to the more mature generation, which is fantastic. I guess if I did not do a great job with their hair they would not keep coming back – and they do! This business continually grows, and it has a fantastic, friendly environment – that’s why our clients love it.

At the end of the day I excel at my job because I have pride in what I do and the training that Maria and June have provided me over the years has got me to where I am today.

“I LOVE getting out and about town discussing issues and concerns with businesses in the region,” says Toni Friend. “Being a part of the Canberra Business community is very important to me. Building on relationships and helping Chamber members with everyday business issues is really very rewarding in so many ways. I get to be an active partner in the success of their business which is great!”

Toni is the ACT and Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s, business development manager with responsibility including leadership of the team’s strategic direction as well as all facets of Chamber membership.

“I enjoy meeting a wide variety of people and gaining knowledge from the different businesses I talk to,” she says.

Toni has gained a wide variety of experience across a range of industries which she says gives her the ability to respond to the needs of all Chamber members who come from all different sectors of the ACT business community.

Acacia Hair Shop 1 Gwydir Square, Kaleen 2617 Phone: 62413203 Email: acaciahd@eftel.net.au

Acacia Hair Shop 1 Gwydir Square, Kaleen 2617 Phone: 62413203 Email: acaciahd@eftel.net.au

ACT & Region Chamber of Commerce and Industry 12a Theisger Court, Deakin 2600 Phone: 6283 5200 Email: sam@actchamber.com.au

ACT & Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry 12a Thesiger Court, Deakin 2600 Phone: 62835248 Email: toni.friend@actchamber.com.au

Maria Garreffe

Dianne O’Hara

OWNER

GENERAL MANAGER BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND STRATEGY

I HAVE been part of the hairdressing industry for the past 28 years.

During this time, I have seen many changes to the industry, including improvements in products, equipment and technique, which has enabled me to grow as a stylist.

Hairdressing has allowed me to develop a good rapport within the community, which is why I nd every day a new challenge.

As part of my personal journey, I have an increased my knowledge of the industry.

I am proud to be part of Acacia Hair and have been able to watch it grow from a business into a wonderful family over the past 16 years.

I hope that more of the next generation will enter the industry and enjoy the challenges that it brings.

AS part of her role as general manager of business development and strategy at ActewAGL, Dianne is involved in making the ACT and surrounding region a greener place to live.

She is responsible for investigating new investment opportunities, which includes researching renewable energy generation such as solar and wind farms, infrastructure to support the introduction of electric vehicles, and other energy-saving initiatives such as smart meters and smart grids.

“What I like about my role is the variety in projects, and the prospect of being involved in implementing energy-efcient solutions for Canberra and the surrounding region,” she says.

Since 1993, Dianne has worked for ActewAGL and TransACT in various industrial relations, employment relations and managerial roles. ActewAGL has a number of initiatives to support its female workforce, including its own women’s network called Women in Utilities, which will be ofcially launched later this month. The network aims to encourage professional development, create network opportunities, and provide career support and advice.

ActewAGL actewagl.com.au Phone: 131493

Sam Andrewartha

Lisa Milner

EVENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR

CENTRE MANAGER

SAM Andrewartha, says that her youth, yet experience, means she possess innovative thinking and problem-solving methods.

“I was selected from a highly competitive eld to represent Australia in the Future Business Counterparts Program in Japan, which was attended by 48 Australians, all from different States,” she says. “This program enabled me to better understand the challenges facing Australian commerce leading into the next decade.”

The Chamber represents a large segment of ACT Businesses and, Sam says, her experiences working on marketing and sponsorships have beneted her both personally and professionally.

“Working with the Chamber has helped me grow. The opportunity to work for a not-for-prot organisation was also something I hold in high regard.”

Sam is also the executive ofcer of the ACT Young Business Network, Australian Industry & Defence Network (Canberra), Retail Traders Association ACT Region, and the Hong Kong Australia Business Association Limited.

CENTRE manager and personal trainer Lisa believes wholeheartedly in the importance of exercise as benecial for both body and mind.

“I love watching our members improve their way of life, often changing a lifetime of bad habits and increasing their tness, health and well-being – it’s inspirational,” she says.

With six years in the tness industry and four years at Alive! under her belt, Lisa worked her way up to management after starting out on reception and then moving into sales. Her passion for the industry then led her to take her Certicate IV in tness training.

Lisa hopes that tness will be incorporated into more people’s lives.

“Too often it is pushed aside for other priorities, but surely your health should be the most important thing,” she says.

Exercise is so benecial, you just have to nd the right kind for you and work out how and where to t it in.”

Alive! Health & Fitness Queanbeyan 5-9 High Street, Queanbeyan 2620 Phone: 6297 7788 Email: info@alivestudio.com.au

CityNews October 15-21 19

Alive! Health and Fitness Cnr Jerrabomberra Ave & Hindmarsh Dr, Narrabundah 2604 Phone: 62959500 Email: cathy.vardos@alivestudio. com.au

allhomes.com.au 47 Jardine Street, Kingston 2604 Phone: 6296 4814 Email: sdeirocini@allhomes.com.au

ANZ Mortgage Solutions Belconnen, Gungahlin, Inner North www.anzmobilelending.com.au Phone: 0400 131314 or 6232 9863 Email pedenk@ anzmortgagesolutions.com 20 CityNews October 15-21

Cathy Vardos

Tania Vidovic

DIRECTOR

MOBILE LEADER / DIRECTOR

CATHY founded the Alive! Health and Fitness clubs in 2004.

“Health and tness was always the industry I wanted to be in,” says Cathy. “I absolutely love what I do and couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.”

With 15 years in the industry, Cathy started out as a group tness instructor, teaching a couple of classes a week.

She has also done membership sales. Now she is manager of operations and oversees the daily running of the club.

For the future, Cathy is aiming for the continued growth and stability of the business.

“I enjoy the overall management aspect of my role, as well as providing customer service and teaching classes,” she says.

Cathy also oversees the stafng and rosters, and it’s a long day, with 5.30am starts and 9pm nishes – seven days a week.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” she says.

“I’m passionate about helping people reach their tness goals – I nd it very rewarding.”

CHANGING business to suit the lifestyles of many of our local residents – this is how Tania is making more convenient banking available to her many clients with ANZ Mobile Lending.

Can’t get to bank? She will bring the bank to you anywhere, anytime.

Tania started her career in Canberra and has worked in both the real estate and nance industry for over the past 10 years, assisting many local residents realise the ultimate dream of home ownership.

She is now the owner and director of a very successful company, building a great reputation with not only her exceptional service, but her local knowledge and expertise are highly sort after.

Since joining ANZ, Tania has won several awards and is currently one of the Top 5 ANZ Franchise’s in Australia. Tania prides herself in her commitment to the industry and the convenient services offered being available after hours and weekends. She is helping to create a banking solution to the needs of our community.

ANZ Mobile Lending Canberra Southside and Weston Creek Phone: 6299 2099 or 0437 131314 Email: taniac@ anzmortgagesolutions.com

Sharon Dei Rocini

Bernadette Solar

MANAGER

PROPRIETOR MANAGER

SHARON Dei Rocini may be the nancial controller in the fastpaced real estate Canberra based success story that is the property portal, allhomes, but she says she’s just a country girl at heart from Bombala (which explains her love of customers service!).

“I started working in property management doing the bookkeeping and quickly realised I loved the challenge of it and loved assisting local and interstate residents nding a place to call home,” says the married mother of four, who oversees all administration and nance for the business as well as its all-important customer service programs. “It certainly is a diverse and challenging career.”

Sharon says that it is her organisational skills and knowledge of real estate in Canberra that sets her apart.

“There is nothing better than knowing that our customers are satised with the help we have given them,” she says. “allhomes has a strong community presence, which is really important. I also have the ability to always be positive!”

“EXPERIENCE and skill is important, but most importantly, my listening skill is my best attribute to ensuring the client gets what they want,” says Aqua Hair principal Bernadette Solar.

She says that one of her major challenges in her salon is maintaining a sound knowledge of the new and current style trends.

Bernadette has 30 years experience in hairdressing, following her elder sister into the industry straight from school.

“In those days it was the necessity to leave school and start a trade,” she says.

She grew up in various regional NSW towns before settling in Canberra where she “now enjoys her large family life.”

Little wonder, then, that she lists her greatest achievement as running a business while raising ve children.

And the future for her business? “I want to sustain the strong community presence Aqua Hair has gained in the Canberra community.”

Aqua Hair Shop 4, Cook Shopping Centre Phone: 6251 2103

Kylie Peden

Mikaela Jones

MOBILE LENDER/DIRECTOR

OWNER/MANAGER

CANBERRA-born mum of two, Kylie Peden has worked locally for the past 20 years and has a wealth of experience in mortgage lending, helping many families nance their home or obtain their rst investment property.

With her team of ANZ mobile lenders, who service the Belconnen/Gungahlin and inner-north areas seven days a week, Kylie says she not only delivers ANZ award-winning home loans, whenever and wherever, but provides exceptional service while doing so.

“If you are considering buying a home or investment property, building a new home or renovating, accessing the equity in your property for a holiday or wedding, renancing from another lender, considering xed rates, or simply wanting to consolidate debts using your equity, my team can come to see you to discuss how your home loan can work for you,” she says.

Monday to Saturday they are available by appointment at ANZ Belconnen, Gungahlin and Dickson branches – or they can come to see you at home or work, evenings or weekends.

WORKING in the beauty industry for seven years, Mikaela has been with the Beauty Bar for ve years during which time she has worked to develop and grow the business.

This includes keeping up to date with the latest trends and techniques.

Mikaela likes to lead by example. “If there is work to be done, I will be in there helping my staff,” she says.

“I love working with people, I love working with my hands and I think the power of touch is so powerful in making people feel good about themselves.

“As one of the leading Dermalogica salons in Canberra, I was invited to attend an international Dermalogica conference in Turkey,” Mikaela says of her greatest achievement to date.

She enjoys the challenges of meeting the changes in clients’ lifestyles and needs.

“I strive to give exceptional customer service and, with the shortage of well-trained therapists, additional training is so important for our industry,” Mikaela says.

Beauty Bar Shop A08 Jamison Plaza, Macquarie 2614 Phone: 6253 4488 Email: mikaela_beautybar@hotmail. com

Bensons of Curtin Shop 9 Curtin Place Phone: 6281 4286 Email: ih.jones10@bigpond.com.au

Bentleys of Canberra Jamison Plaza, Macquarie 2614 Phone: 6251 2681 Email: Trudy@hitparade.com.au

Helen Jones

Sarah Booth

OWNER/MANAGER

OWNER

HELEN Jones brings a wealth of experience and a love of working with people to her role as owner/manager of wellestablished hair salon, Bensons of Curtin.

With more than 30 years in the industry, Helen entered the profession to acquire a trade that could be utilised anywhere in the world which involved dealing with people.

“Back in those days, you were encouraged to do an apprenticeship, and hairdressing seemed the better choice that suited my attributes,” she says.

Helen counts among her greatest achievements her ability to build and enhance rapport and loyalty with clients, while maintaining a harmonious home life.

The best attributes she contributes to her business are her personality, skills, good work ethic and a treasured ability to remember clients’ names, which adds a personal touch.

“The challenge of my role is to provide each client with an experience that they are enthused about,” she says.

“For the future, I look forward to maintaining and growing my client base.”

WITH more than 16 years hairdressing experience to her name, Sarah continues to grow her salon and her staff to be the best-educated and well-informed stylists they can be.

Her focus is on excellent training in hands-on skills and technical knowledge in the entire industry that hairdressing encapsulates.

She is also very busy with the bridal studio, which creates beautiful and unique hair and make-up for brides, their bridal parties and all formal and special occasions.

Always supported by her very special family, Sarah is hoping to build an empire for her two sons to continue her dreams, and hopefully theirs, into the future.

Apart from her family, her greatest achievement was becoming a nalist in the 2008 Telstra Young Business Woman of the Year Award.

Bentleys of Canberra, Garran and Bentleys Bridal Studio Shop 7, Garran Shopping Centre, Gilmore Crescent, Garran 2605 Phone: 6281 4339 Email: bentleysbridal@grapevine.com.au

Trudy Meehan

Kylie Sibraa

SALON CO-ORDINATOR

SENIOR PROPERTY MANAGER

TRUDY began hairdressing in 1993 in Kingaroy, Queensland, and went on to become a manager in one of Toowoomba’s top salons. She moved to Canberra seven years ago to take up her position as salon co-ordinator for Bentleys.

“Being a very creative person with a love of fashion, hairdressing was the obvious choice for me. I love making people feel good about themselves and my work allows me to meet so many interesting people.”

She’s not just one of Bentleys senior stylists, but manages the day-to-day running of the salon liaising with other owners and managers within the Bentleys group.

One day, Trudy hopes to develop her skills to the point where she can join the Bentleys group with her own salon.

“Until then, I want to help other team members to reach their personal and professional goals as much as I can so that everyone is able to be the best they can be.”

“MY role, as the senior property manager with Blue Property Marketing is to work closely with property owners to preserve and increase the value of their real estate investments” says Kylie.

“My background has always been in the real estate industry.

I started with a real estate reception job straight out of school, but discovered that I really loved the industry, especially the property management side, and have been in the industry for 13 years.

“I offer all the qualities that Blue considers to be important to be part of their property management team – integrity, professionalism, honesty and, most importantly, an understanding of landlords’ requirements from their property manager.

Kylie says she would like to see property management become a diploma course, as “a property manager’s work really hard and it should be recognised for its professionalism.”

She is dedicated to doing the best-possible job to meet all parties’ needs and deliver friendly professional service. “Going that extra step really does make the difference!”

Blue Property Marketing 42 Mort Street Braddon, ACT Phone: 6163 8888 Email: kylie.sibraa@blueproperty.com. au

June Irving

Amanda Mutton

SALON OWNER

DIRECTOR

ONE of Canberra’s most successful salon owners, June Irving says her greatest pleasure is seeing her junior hairdressers blossom into condent, young professionals.

June is one of the stalwarts in the hair and beauty industry, having 36 years’ experience of growing the Bentleys of Canberra group, all Schwarzkopf Professional salons.

Over the decades, she has nurtured scores of young apprentices, many of whom have advanced within her group or have branched out on their own.

“I am committed to making sure the young ones coming through the industry are well mannered, well presented and condent in what they’re doing,” she says.

To keep abreast of developments in the industry, June regularly attends seminars and workshops interstate and Bentleys of Canberra travels overseas every year.

Jamison Plaza: 6251 2681 June, who grew up in Cooma, began hairdressing as a Garran Shops: 6281 4339 young mum in Canberra.

Beauty Bar, Jamison Plaza: 6253 4488 While her rst love is hair, she has “slipped across into the Bentleys Bridal Studio, Jamison Plaza: beauty industry” in recent years, opening The Beauty Bar and 6251 2681 Bentleys Bridal Studio in Jamison.

Griffin Day Spa, Kingston: 6260 6648

Blue Property Marketing Phone: 6163 8888 Email: amanda.mutton@blueproperty. com.au

AMANDA has long experience in the real estate industry and in 2002 Amanda won the prestigious REI ACT Salesperson of the Year Award.

In 2004 she reached her personal goal of opening up an agency – Blue Property Marketing Pty Ltd. Since 2004 Blue Property Marketing has gone from strength to strength and is recognised for its professionalism in property management and property sales.

Amanda believes that the success of Blue has been due to having great staff that share her passion for the industry and a like-minded philosophy in customer service.

Amanda says one of the keys to her personal success in real estate has been that she enjoys spending time with people; and even though it is hard work, she absolutely loves the rewards it brings her clients, both the vendors and the buyers of property. It is generally a win-win situation for both parties and that brings her a lot of joy.

CityNews October 15-21 21

Blaze Hair Culture Shop AO2 Jamison Centre, Macquarie 2614 Phone: 6162 2855 Email: jess.mcauley@hotmail.com

Bobbi Cook Behaviour Management and Counselling Cook Shopping Centre, Cook Place, Cook 2614 www.bcbm.com.au Phone: 62533116 Email: admin@bcbm.com.au

Brazilian Buttery Level 1, 23 Garema Place, Civic Phone: 6247 6000 Email: canberracity@brazilianbutterfly. com 22 CityNews October 15-21

Jessica McAuley

Tania Lee West

OWNER

SENIOR ACCOUNT DIRECTOR

JESS started her career in hairdressing in Canberra in 2003 and says she is now realising her ambition of becoming a force in the Canberra hairdressing scene!

“As the owner of the vibrant new hair salon Blaze Hair Culture in Jamison, we provide a new and exciting atmosphere for our steadily expanding client base.”

"I work with a team of highly skilled professionals specialising in all aspects of the profession from styling to colouring.

The satisfaction of working together to provide our clients with a superior service is very rewarding for me.”

Jess and her team have hit the ground running since opening in February and take pride in the fact that Blaze’s clientele is continuing to grow every week.

“New clients are coming to us and quickly returning for their next appointment – which tells us we are heading in the right direction!”

Jess says she hopes to become the “hairdresser of choice” for many Canberrans in the future.

TANIA is a senior account director for CA Pty Ltd, one of the world’s largest IT management software providers, delivering software and expertise that unies and simplies complex IT environments.

Her career started in the legal sector before she moved into IT. She has a BA in communications and management.

“IT is exciting. There are always new emerging technologies and frameworks that mean the industry is constantly on the move,” she says.

Six-time CA Club member – a prestigious worldwide award – and one of CA’s top performers over the last nine years, Tania’s role is to manage and facilitate all engagement within client accounts. She is responsible for strategy and its execution, as well as being responsible for articulating the company’s business prole with senior Government clients.

For the future, Tania says she would like to see a closer alignment between ICT providers and clients to drive key business outcomes and enable government to deliver a better service. “I’d also love to see more women in the industry in a similar role.”

CA Pty Ltd 10 National Circuit, Barton 2600 Phone: 6253 6100 Email: tania.west@ca.com

Bobbi Cook

Kylie-Ann Petroni

SENIOR THERAPIST

MANGING DIRECTOR

CHILD, youth and family behaviour therapist and counsellor Bobbi Cook has worked with children and families in one form or another for last 20 years and has been in private practice for last ve years.

A clinical counsellor, mother to ve and grandmother to eight, Bobbi strives to provide sensible “solution focused”, family friendly support, skill development and counselling services by supporting normal, average families in a practical way to develop skills for parenting “I have a son with additional needs and challenges and don’t want families to go through what I went through,” she says, “not knowing if things were normal or not and needing good, sensible, practical ideas and strategies to be more effective as a parent and meaningful ongoing and consistent support and skill development for my son.

She was awarded the 2009 Chamber of Women in business Outstanding Community Spirit Award for work with siblings of children with autism and the 2008 Australian Counselling Association National Award for Outstanding Contribution to Advancement of the Counselling Profession in Australia.

FROM building and construction projects to setting up export markets in South East Asia, Kylie-Ann says she has always had a design element associated with her working life.

“I have always been drawn to working with companies that would allow for creativity and design, albeit in very different industries,” she says.

“Being a mum and a business owner sometimes proves to be a little frustrating in terms of people assuming that you are doing this as a hobby rather than a real ‘grown up’ business.”

Cackleberry Kids, which turns three in March, designs and manufactures Australian made children’s garments and evolved to cater for a gap in the market – stylish boys clothing.

“Our goals are to continue the growth of label and brand throughout Australia and overseas,” says Kylie-Ann, who hopes next to open an outlet in Japan.

Cackleberry Kids was a nalist in the ACT Chief Minister’s Export Awards for 2009.

Cackleberry Kids PO BOX 1006, Fyshwick 2609 Phone: 62392484 Email: kylie@cackleberrykids.com

Jacqui Mortensen

Jenny Tiffen

OWNER / FRANCHISEE

FOUNDER

WAXING was always beauty therapist Jacqui’s favourite treatment, so when the opportunity arose to purchase a Brazilian Buttery franchise, she took it.

“Beauty is my passion,” she says. “I love the instant results hair removal gives and making people feel condent about their appearance.”

Starting out in the industry at 17, Jacqui took a break and completed a commerce degree in accounting before opening her rst Brazilian Buttery salon with her husband in Melbourne in 2005. They now have three salons – two in Melbourne and one in Canberra.

Brazilian Buttery was established after identifying a gap in the beauty industry – the need for a professional, fresh, and progressive waxing salon specialising in a niche market. Jacqui is responsible for the day-to-day running of the salon and training the therapists to maintain a high standard.

“I hope that Brazilian Buttery continues to grow nationally – and internationally – as a chain,” she says.

“I’d also like to expand the number of outlets in Canberra.”

AFTER two pregnancies, Jenny Tiffen was keen to get back into shape and socialise with other Canberra mums – but where?

She identied a gap in the market, as there was no opportunity for a mother to exercise during the day with other mums and bring the children along.

“I joined forces with Marty Porter to grow the business to where it is today,” she says.

“We train the majority of sessions and also employ two personal trainers as well as nannies to entertain the babes of FitMums.”

Two sessions a week are held in Brand Depot’s shopping mall and, now that the warm weather has returned, sessions are held by Lake Burley Grifn.

“We recently launched FitMums safe and fun pregnancy exercise sessions as well as a skin-care line allowing other stay-at-home mums to operate a small business.

“We are constantly running promotions that combine parent and children activities ensuring the post-natal woman feels fantastic about herself!”

Canberra FitMums www.fitmums.biz Phone: 0411 112 464 Email: jenny@fitmums.biz

ckimage 50 Jansz Crescent, Griffith 2603 Phone: 0412 628620 Email: carol@ckimage.com.au

Clarity Communications Australia Phone: 6282 0578 Mobile: 0414 295857 Email: clarity@claritycomms.com.au

Clear Complexions Clinic Unit 11, 100 Eastern Valley Way, Belconnen Phone: 6251 8889 Unit 1/43 Comrie St Wanniassa Phone: 6231 0003 Email: info@clearcomplexions.com.au

Carol Mitchell

Kylie Murdoch

MANAGING DIRECTOR

SALES MANAGER

BREAKING barriers, increasing condence and creating memorable impressions is just the start.

Carol helps people feel positive about the way they present themselves, providing the tools to give them an edge in a competitive world.

The image industry has always been a major part of Carol’s life with more than 25 years’ experience from a beginning; as an international model, fashion designer, make-up artist and artistic designer, Carol has all the qualications to assist with the creation of a remarkable First Impression.

Your image is one area over which you have total control.

However, it is important to remember you are not the judge of your own rst impression.

After spending time with Carol you will understand how you can change your life forever with your attitude, your appearance and your presence.

Carol can help you build an image that is right for you and you will be guaranteed an enjoyable experience while achieving your goals.

KYLIE Murdoch, Cliftons ACT sales manager, has been part of the professional development and corporate training environment with Cliftons for the past ve years.

“Cliftons provides the perfect venue solutions for forwardthinking companies who are looking to develop, retain and motivate staff,” says Kylie.

“Whether you're after a computer-training facility; a large, cocktail-style functions space; a conference room or a place away from the ofce for a team building or strategic-planning day, Cliftons can help, leaving you to focus on your core business objectives.”

Boasting more than 200 training rooms spanning 10 locations across Australia, NZ, Hong Kong, and Singapore, and a network of afliate venues throughout regional Australia and the world, Kylie says that Cliftons has become an integral part of many companies' engagement and training programs.

“I can assist Federal and State Government, and Canberra organisations streamline their training and meeting programs to maximise efciency and value – and in today’s business environment that’s really very important.”

Cliftons Level 2, 10 Moore Street, Civic 2600 Phone: 6122 0968 Email: kylie.murdoch@cliftons.com

Wendy Johnson

Deborah Webb

BUSINESS OWNER

BUSINESS PARTNER/OWNER

“In language, clarity is everything.” It is an ancient saying that holds true today, says Wendy Johnson, owner of Clarity Communications Australia, an award-winning advertising/PR company with a strong writing-editing arm.

Wendy believes so much in this Confucius saying she created a course to teach business how to write clearly and to aim content at the reader. “In business the reader is often your source of income,” says Wendy.

“Yet many businesses overwrite to ‘impress not express’.

They force readers to plough through unclear text for meaning.”

The highly-successful course includes practical tips to show business people – junior to senior – how to strengthen their written communication skills. It can be as short as three hours and has been taught within the public and private sectors here and internationally.

“Good writing adds to the bottom line,” says Wendy, “but confusing material, whether it’s an email, letter or report, is not worth the paper it’s written on.”

OWNER and stylist Deborah specialises in hair carving, which she does freehand with a cut-throat razor.

“I love being able to create new looks and use my artistic air,” she says.

Her role is to keep the salon running smoothly, which she does by taking the time to look after her clients and her staff.

“Dealing with the different personalities and demands that crop up in any given day is a challenge,” she says.

Deborah grew up in Berry, NSW, and starting hairdressing at the age of 15 before moving to Wollongong for a few years. “I came to Canberra for the opportunities and worked in several salons before opening Coco’s, my rst business,” she says.

“I love the fun, friendly atmosphere and meeting new people.

“I have a vibrant personality, good communication skills and dedicated to meeting clients’ needs.”

With 13 years in hairdressing, Deborah also loves keeping up with the latest trends and fashions in the industry.

Coco’s Hair Shop 4 Watson shops, Watson 2602 Phone: 6241 1510 Email: cocos@eftel.net.au

Suzie Hoitink

Donna Reynolds

OWNER

MARKETING MANAGER

HAVING battled skin issues herself and nding very little help available, Suzie opened the Clear Complexions Clinic to ll a niche between cosmetic surgeons and beauticians.

Owner of clinics in Belconnen and Tuggeranong, Suzie consults and treats clients every day in both clinics to maintain constant contact. “I want my clients to receive the highest standard of care possible,” she says.

Registered nurse Suzie opened the rst clinic in 2005, with a focus on helping clients with all manner of skin conditions. The clinics offer medical-grade treatments performed by skilled nurses.

With 13 years in various nursing roles, Suzie regularly speaks at conferences about the effectiveness of light-based treatments. She has also appeared on “Today Tonight” and featured in “Harpers Bazaar” and “Vouge” magazines.

For the future, Suzie would love to see a higher degree of regulation to protect the client from unsafe practices and ineffective treatments.

Suzie is available to clients, both new and existing, for consultations and advice.

“The responsibility for marketing Connexxion Business Solutions is a role that I really enjoy. Connexxion is about connecting people with technology solutions and achieving a positive outcome based on a trusted relationship,” says Donna.

“I arrived at Connexxion in 2007 after 12 years in cosmetics sales and marketing ready for a new challenge. The company had been steadily growing as APA Management Systems and was at a point where it was keen to achieve the vision of becoming a large IT provider.

“It has been rewarding to see that vision take shape and work to build the brand.

“There are a number of new offerings including nance and HR systems that we are currently exploring, so the future is bright and the challenges for me are really exciting.”

Donna says that Connexxion focuses on acting as a trusted adviser in every situation.

“The IT industry is a dynamic one and I take pleasure in working with great customers and as part of the talented Connexxion team.”

Connexxion Business Solutions Level 5, 28 University Avenue, Canberra 2600 Phone: 6262 6288 Email: donna.reynolds@connexxion. com.au

CityNews October 15-21 23

Jessica Sciannimanica

Christina Triston-Rattay

OFFICE MANAGER

Cosmorex Coffee 47 Kembla Street, Fyshwick Phone: 6280 7511 Email: contact@cosmorexcoffee. com.au

Cosmorex Coffee Pty Ltd 47 Kembla Street, Fyshwick 2609 Phone: 6280 7511 Email: contact@cosmorexcoffee.com

Contours de Femme Endermologie Clinic Manuka Upstairs Style Arcade, Palmerston Lane, Manuka 2603 Phone: 62958848 Email: contact@ contoursdefemme.com.au 24 CityNews October 15-21

BEING a part of the family business means a lot to Jessica, who entered the coffee industry so she could work alongside her parents.

“Although my background is in sports management and retail, I could see the benets my degree could have for the company,” she says.

Jessica started working casually in the warehouse and worked her way through sales to the position of ofce manager. “I’ve only been in my current role for 18 months, but the business has always been part of my life.”

Seeing her family’s hard work pay off is incredibly rewarding, says Jessica.

“We might not always agree on the best course of action in some circumstances, but when we work together, we always achieve the best result.”

With her new ideas and a fresh outlook, Jessica oversees the daily operations of the business and deals with nances.

“Eventually, I’d like to take on new challenges within Cosmorex and see the business expand – hopefully, internationally.”

ENDERMOLOGIST

Contours de Femme Upstairs, Style Arcade, Franklin Street, Manuka 2603 Phone: 6295 8848 Email: contact@contoursdefemme. com.au

CHRISTINA is a specialist in Endermologie and Regen Pro treatments for weight loss, anti-aging and overall wellness.

“I have always had a keen interest in beauty and fashion. I enjoy helping people look and feel their best,” she says.

“The non-invasive approach to beauty really interests me. I feel it's the way of the future in beauty. More and more men and women are opting for this approach over surgery.

“Unlike surgery, our approach is about overall wellbeing and permanent lifestyle change in parallel to treatments.”

A graduate of the London College of Fashion, she started her career working in the hair and beauty industry in London before a spell in Europe working in fashion.

“I took a break to raise a family of three wonderful children and recently restarted my career in Canberra. I feel quite privileged to be working with professional women in the clinic. I'm working with and being trained by the best in the industry,” she says.

Anne Sciannimanica

Rosana McLeod

DIRECTOR

OWNER

EVEN though she has been in the family business for nearly 25 years, Anne Sciannimanica still see’s Cosmorex Coffee as an evolving organisation with a staff of 15 and plans to take on more.

“We are still very much a work-in-progress as I am continuously rening, adding and changing the work spaces and procedures,” she says.

“Nowadays, I am much more in a planning and operational role; forging the direction of the company.”

Anne rates the successful development of Cosmorex’s new Fyshwick premises and direction of the business as her biggest business feather-in-her-cap.

“I haven’t done this alone; it was a great team effort,” she says.

Her passionate work ethic combined with a love of coffee, means she’s able to impart a wealth of knowledge to staff and loves training enthusiastic young professionals wanting a career in the coffee industry.

“I want to continue to motivate our fantastic staff and to keep the motor going with new ideas and directions,” she says.

JUGGLING a family with two children and the demands of a business means that Rosana McLeod has to live by the company's motto of “organise your life”!

She has been with Creative by Design, a national wardrobe and home ofce design company, for 18 years, starting out as a wardrobe designer and says her business success is due to her commitment, belief in her product and love of managing her team of brilliant designers “Creative by Design was the original Creative Wardrobe Company and has been serving Canberra for more than 21 years,” she says.

“Having the time to bring order to our busy lives is the issue and Creative by Design has time-saving storage solutions for every room of your home with specialised, custom-made; wardrobes, home ofces, doors and storage furniture.”

Rosana, who has won the company’s sales manager of the year and franchise of the year awards, had to educate herself in the technicalities of manufacturing and installation, getting involved in all aspects of the business, including the more male-dominated production process.

Creative By Design 175 Gilmore Road, Queanbeyan 2620 Phone: 62842759 Email: rosana.mcleod@ creativebydesign.com.au

Jayne Armstrong

Julie McPhail

OWNER / CLINICIAN

DIRECTOR

JAYNE Armstrong started out with a local cosmetic surgeon, where she practised non-invasive, non-surgical procedures with a medical approach to anti-ageing for health and wellbeing. Now she has her own clinic.

“The trend now is towards more non-invasive, non-surgical procedures and, as a result, the future for Contours de Femme is very exciting,” she says.

“We’re now celebrating our fourth year in business with a staff of four professional women, highly skilled in their chosen elds,” she says.

“I work predominately with women and my dedication and passion is wanting to make a difference.

“Being a results-driven clinic, the importance of wordof-mouth and the relationships formed with our patients contribute to the success of our busy practice. To be able to help them achieve their desired results is the most rewarding and satisfying job of all.

"I've always viewed my practice as having a guest in my little French boutique every hour, a beautiful reason to get up every day".

WHEN Julie arrived back in Canberra in the early ‘80s after living overseas, she noticed a gap in the furniture market for European and American trends.

“I enjoy offering unusual pieces which make people smile and keeps them coming back year after year,” she says. “We also do special order requests and nd unusual items for customers. Our staff give personal attention to our customers and have a relaxed approach.”

Julie’s 25-year background in interior design makes her ideally placed to buy in all styles of furniture and decorator pieces, particularly lamps, prints and Asian feature pieces.

Challenges include keeping the balance of the stock right to appeal to all tastes.

“I’m proud to still be running a successful business after so many years and in this current nancial market,” she says.

“We’re grateful to our loyal customers – I hope and expect we will continue to contribute to the community and maintain our excellent reputation for style, value and service.”

Decor Living Furniture 134 Gladstone St Fyshwick Phone: 6280 7798 Email: decorliving@webone.com.au

Dynamic Studios Upper Level Unit 5/23 Essington Street, Mitchell Phone: 6262 3222 Email: admin@dynamicstudios.com.au

EBA Lawyers 122 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan Phone: 6128 1200 Email: jessica.barker@ ebalawyers.com.au

EBA Lawyers 17-21 University Avenue, Canberra Phone: 6206 1300 Email: claire.grogan@ ebalawyers.com.au

Nicole Georgiou

Deborah Olde

FOUNDER/DIRECTOR

OWNER / MANAGER

NICOLE has been dancing since she was four years old, training in all styles including tap, jazz, ballet, contemporary, ballet, lyrical, latin, hip hop, street funk and many more.

“This business has been a dream of mine since I was a child,” she says. “I feel I was born to dance and run a business which would change peoples lives, teach people to follow their heart and live a life with passion.”

Starting the business more than 16 years ago when she was 18, Telstra Young Business Woman of the Year 2005 Nicole runs everything from nance and marketing to training and teaching.

Dynamic Studios is Canberra's only dance, performing arts, tness and wellbeing centre, which caters for ages 18 months to adults, and is home to Canberra's only performing arts troupe, the Dynamic Dancers, who have just returned from performing in Paris, London and California.

“My aim is to show women that goals are achievable through dedication, persistence and believing in yourself, your passion and your dreams,” she says.

DEBORAH did her beauty therapy training at the NT University.

“I have always had an interest in skin care, make-up and making people feel good about themselves,” she says. “I love what I do.”

She takes understandable pride at owning her own busy beauty salon in Queanbeyan after working from home for ve years.

“My rst encounter with the beauty industry was with an Ella Bache salon in Darwin, then to Canberra, where I had the opportunity to established a beauty business in the city within a hairdressing salon,” she says.

“I moved the business to my home in Jerrabomberra, where it operated for ve years before I bought and revamped an established salon in Queanbeyan.”

She sees management, training and leadership as important drivers to growing her staff and the business and sets her personal goal as continuing to grow and expand the business.

Her professional objectives are to see better regulation and an improvement to the general standard of the profession.

Elements Face and Body Shop 24 City Link Plaza Morisset Street, Queanbeyan 2620 Phone: 6298 1226 Email: info@elementsfaceandbody. com.au

Jessica Barker

Julie Ford

SOLICITOR

FINANCIAL PLANNER

A DESIRE to help people resolve their legal problems, to explore interesting issues and problems in the law, and to keep her brain active and challenged were Jessica Barker’s motivations for becoming a solicitor.

Growing up in regional NSW, Jessica graduated with a double degree in arts law from the University of Wollongong in 2007.

Completing a graduate diploma in legal practice at ANU while working full-time with EBA Lawyers, she was admitted as a solicitor in June, 2008.

Jessica practices in the areas of litigation and criminal law.

“I pride myself in consistently demonstrating an approachable and understanding attitude,” she says. In the future, Jessica hopes to see more opportunities for training solicitors in “bedside manner”.

Also, more efcient and improved systems Australia-wide for Legal Aid so that legal representation can be available to all people, regardless of their circumstances.

“THIS is a family business that my father has been involved in for over 40 years,” says a proud Julie. “As I grew up I was taught the value of money management and what you can achieve no matter the size of your base income.

“The most satisfying aspect of this profession is helping people realise their life’s goals, being it from paying off their credit card debt to their creating a diversied investment portfolio – or even just being able to afford that family holiday they always wanted to take!”

Julie is a born-and-bred local and she and her husband are the proud parents of a beautiful year-old daughter.

As a Certied Financial Planner, she says that her ability to understand people’s needs and then devise the right strategy to help them is her greatest asset.

“Perhaps even more important than being able to devise a clever nancial strategy, is to be able to explain it to clients in an easy-to-understand way.”

Financial Wisdom Phone: 62862 2042 Email: julie@fordandford.com

Authorised representative of Financial Wisdom ABN 70 006 646 108 AFSL No. 231138

Claire Grogan

Amanda Pulford

LAWYER

DIRECTOR

“FAMILY Law can be a highly emotional area of the law, requiring patience and understanding,” says Claire Grogan, an associate at EBA Lawyers.

Claire’s main practice is family law in both the Commonwealth and State jurisdictions. Her work includes property applications, children’s matters, divorce, and care matters.

In addition to acting for husbands, fathers, mothers and wives, she acts for grandparents, aunts and uncles and is also an independent children’s lawyer/child representative.

Claire has a thorough knowledge of family law and an excellent record of achieving good results. A particularly good communicator, she is able to empathise in order to properly understand the needs of her clients.

She has Law and Commerce degrees from ANU, a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice, and a Master of Laws. Her postgraduate studies have been in law and alternative dispute resolution. Claire has also undertaken interdisciplinary team collaborative training.

FITSISTAS Director Amanda Pulford is excited to have been recently nominated as an ACT nalist in the Fitness Industry Awards of Excellence for 2009. If successful she will have the opportunity to compete nationally.

Her 20 years’ experience in the tness industry – including competitive body building, a passion for women’s tness and a love of marketing – has led Amanda to open the only pole studio to employ registered tness professionals.

As a member of the Regional Council for Fitness Australia, Amanda understands the importance of providing a professional service to her customers in a safe environment, while still delivering a fun and challenging exercise. Focusing on tness and strength, her Powapole™ Fitness Classes are enjoyed by women aged 18 to 60-years-old and of all different tness levels.

“It’s such a positive environment to be in; to help to bring out the physical best in someone is so rewarding,” she says.

FitSistas Pole & Fitness Studio 2/21 Lonsdale Street, Braddon 2612 Phone: 6248 5999 Email: info@fitsistas.com.au

CityNews October 15-21 25

Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd 9/71 Leichardt Street, Kingston 2604 Phone: 6295 2844

Genesis Relationship Consultancy Suite 9/108 Bunda Street, Civic 2602 Phone: 6262 9622 Email: genesis3@iimetro.com.au

Giorgio’s Hair & Beauty Shop 7, Kippax Fair, Hardwick Crescent, Holt 2615 Phone: 62548605

26 CityNews October 15-21

Gail Freeman

Tehmi Mukadam

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT, FINANCIAL PLANNER

REAL ESTATE CONSULTANT

GAIL loves helping people sort out their business and nances, helping them to walk away with a more robust business than they had before.

“In Australia, we’ve weathered the recent economic downturn pretty well, but it has been an interesting time nonetheless,” says Gail.

“My job requires a different perspective now. A couple of years ago people were condent that whatever they invested in would go up, but now they’re more wary. That’s probably a good thing!”

Gail says she genuinely loves working in this eld and is passionate about accountancy. “I gain so much excitement exploring the endless possibilities out there for people around their money,” she says. “It allows me to make a difference.”

In her free time, Gail does a lot of work with Rotary, having taken on the role of district treasurer, organising conferences and recently travelling to the UK for the Rotary International Convention.

She also loves spending time with her family, theatre, ballroom dancing and walking.

Tehmi Mukadam says she loves dealing with people and property.

“I was a property investor long before I started my career and believe in the long-term wealth that property can produce” says Tehmi.

“It gives me great pleasure to help people nd a home of their own – the delight and excitement they share are a source of pure joy for me.”

Having a focus on customer service, Tehmi believes in dealing with all people with dignity, honesty and a smile!

“I am a better listener than a speaker and strive to deliver what our buyers and sellers really want”, says Tehmi.

“I see our fair city of Canberra growing in leaps and bounds and property growing along with it. In my opinion, the current legislation sets a road map for ethical business practices and encourages professionalism. The business is now becoming more and more appealing to women as its becoming more family friendly.”

Independent Property Group Mobile: 0421 279152 Email: tnm@independent.com.au

Lara Medway

Lilian Griffin

MANAGING DIRECTOR

SALES CONSULTANT

LOOKING for love can be tough, but Lara provides a personal dating service at Genesis that is guaranteed to be safe, simple and condential.

“Meeting every client face-to-face helps eliminate the uncertainties of internet dating websites,” she says. “I make sure we only introduce genuine single, divorced, separated and widowed people to each other for friendship and romance.”

With a background in psychology and counselling, Lara deals with the highs and lows of people’s emotions on a daily basis, and says it’s one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences in her career.

“There can be tough times when things go wrong, particularly if there are children involved,” she says.

“But I’m proud to say we have personally introduced thousands of happy couples who are now either married or in long-term de facto relationships,” she says. “This is due to our ongoing client/consultant relationships, and successfully managing a client base of thousands of people. It’s a great achievement in itself!”

LILIAN Grifn is a highly motivated person. Originally from Queensland, her parents and a brother are all in real estate and she knew that she, too, would like to make this her career.

“I remember as a kid going out with my dad in Townsville, showing people through houses and him teaching me how to give a good handshake. His favourite saying was, ‘If you’re going to do something, do it properly the rst time’ which is something that I have tried to achieve through life,” she says.

Combined with her condence and honesty, this attitude makes her an easy person to be around.

She chose Independent Property Group for her career because of their commitment to personal development and training, backed with their great reputation.

Lilian knows this is her career for life and strives to constantly learn and reach her goals, hoping to one day become a motivational speaker at one of the many real estate seminars across Australia.

Independent Property Group GPO Box 1539, Civic 2601 Phone: 6209 7742 Mobile: 0418 170 904 Email: lgn@independent.com.au

Patricia Giorgio

Lesley Richards

BUSINESS OWNER & MANAGER

MANAGING DIRECTOR

PATRICIA is a hairdresser of many years’ experience and says her passion and enthusiasm is always reected in her dealings with her seven staff members and clients.

"I have a passion for being around people and it gives me great pleasure to transform a person’s look,” she says.

“Team support and honesty play an important role in my business: We keep our staff aware of new fashions, styles, colours and that, in turn, motivates them to pass this knowledge on to their clients.

“Training is also important in my salon, we are constantly attending courses and learning about new fashions and trends from around the world. We travel interstate for courses and seminars.”

Staff member Stella Voudouris won the CIT 2009 Norris Hair & Beauty award.

Of Greek background, Patricia was born in Canberra, and has been married to Steve for 21 years. They have three teenage boys: Tony, James and Daniel. Patricia enjoys running a successful business and balancing quality time with family, friends and travelling.

ESTABLISHED in 1994, Interaction Consulting Group has grown from a small home ofce to a business with 12 permanent staff – and a growing professional reputation.

Managing director Lesley Richards purchased the Phillipbased boutique management consulting rm in 2007 and since then has continued to build on the company’s niche – working in partnership with the public sector to help provide organisations with the tools to build the capacity of their people and business through a range of services and products.

“We cover a range of areas including team building, development programs, individual coaching, business planning and strategic advice,” she says.

“For years Interaction has worked primarily with clients in the Australian Public Service, but in recent times we have been excited to work increasingly with the ACT Government.”

Lesley is passionate about Interaction and she and her team strive to make a difference for all clients: one individual, one team, one organisation at a time.

Interaction Consulting Group 4/71 Dundas Court, Phillip 2606 Phone: 9282 8111 Email: lesley.richards@ interactionconsulting.com.au

ISIS Fertility Suite 1, 9 Sydney Avenue, Barton, ACT 2600 Phone: 6175 9000 Email: info@isisfertility.com.au

Jindii EcoSpa 20 Jindabyne Street, Duffy 2612 Phone: 6257 8777 Email: relax@jindii.com.au

Kerri Dickman & Co PO Box 1356, Tuggeranong 2901 Phone: 6295 3733 Email: admin@dickmans.biz

Jeanette Dyer

Kerri Dickman

BUSINESS MANAGER

OWNER

WHEN Jeanette was two, she started up a shoe shop – by lining up her mum’s shoes and trying to sell them back to her! Her business acumen hasn’t diminished since then.

“I’ve always had a passion for customer service, implementing new processes and solving problems,” she says.

Three years ago she started Bundles 3D/4D Ultrasound, and a year ago approached ISIS fertility specialist Dr Nicole Sides and offered to set up and run the business for her.

“I wanted to be involved because this business makes a difference in peoples’ lives,” she says. “Six weeks later, I was thrown in the deep end!”

Jeanette focuses on the day-to-day running of ISIS including HR, marketing, nance and quality assurance. She says that balancing the needs of the company, stakeholders and patients is a challenge, but a positive one.

“Every time I hit a challenging point in my day, I think of it as experience for the future,” she says.

KERRI’S accounting rm specialises in working with small business, individuals and not-for-prots.

“I love to work for small businesses without their own inhouse accountant to help them reap all the benets of being in business,” she says.

With 20 years experience in public practice and 10 years in her own rm, Kerri is passionate about accounting.

“It’s a dynamic industry which is constantly evolving,” she says. “It means no business can stand still, even if they don’t want to grow or are happy with where they are now.”

Kerri says she enjoys building relationships such that her clients think of her as their business partner, not as an outside or external advisor. “This includes community organisations where good governance will help them achieve more,” she says.

“I love what I do and want to keep working with my clients so their accounting function is integral to the success of their business or organisation and not a compliance burden.”

Kerri Dickman & Co PO Box 1356, Tuggeranong 2901 Phone: 6296 3733 Email: admin@dickmans.biz

Bianca Prichard

Kylie Watson

OWNER

MANAGING DIRECTOR

A LIFELONG interest in health and wellbeing lead massage therapist Bianca Prichard to open her rst day spa, Floressence Day Spa, six years ago.

After enjoying much success with Floressence, including winning New Spa of the Year and Spa Manager of the Year in the 2008 Li'Tya “Spirit of Spa” Awards, Bianca is now the owner and director of Jindii EcoSpa. Jindii is a new-concept day spa that is setting a precedent for healthier, “greener” practices in the industry.

"Jindii grew very naturally out of Floressence, but I felt I wanted to do more," she says.

"I believe it's illogical to offer wellness therapies that are harmful to the environment. How can we be 'well' if our planet is not?"

Bianca's sense of responsibility and respect when it comes to environmental issues has become central to the services at Jindii.

She hopes to set the example that you CAN make a difference if you simply choose to take action.

WITH a love of fashion jewellery, Kylie found it frustrating to have her favourite pieces broken all the time by her baby and her toddler pulling on them, as well as from everyday wear.

She saw a gap in the market for fashion necklaces, bangles and rings that have sassy designs, but are also comfortable and resilient enough for everyday wear.

Kylie forged ahead and set up La Bella Creations as an online boutique that retails affordable, funky, strong and dependable fashion jewellery to entice and tempt all women.

The jewellery is designed by Kylie and tested before it is retailed for durability, practicality, comfort and gorgeousness!

The unique Modern Mumma range also includes tug-proof breastfeeding and teething necklaces.

La Bella is a family business with four-year-old Lakeisha helping with the wrapping of orders and Bella (one) being chief tug tester.

La Bella recently won the 2009 Chamber of Women in Business Best New Business Award.

La Bella Creations PO Box 7018 Watson www.labellacreations.com.au Phone: 6162 1121 Email: info@labellacreations.com.au

Marguerite Stewart

Kylie McPaul

TAXATION MANAGER

SALON MANAGER

MARGUERITE has been preparing personal income tax returns for the past 25 years, specialising in salary earners and small businesses, many with rental properties, investments – and helping those who forgot in prior years.

“I enjoy the challenges presented by an ever-changing tax world,” she says.

“I know many people feel overwhelmed by tax, whether it’s personal or business. I see my role as one to help others understand their tax affairs and therefore feel more comfortable.

“It takes time to address the issues and to guide these clients into a better understanding of the tax system.”

Honesty, integrity and openness are important to Marguerite. “In an industry that is ever changing, the relationships I have with my clients are an achievement,” she says.

She says she enjoys helping people who have a fear of the tax system, or who have had a bad experience concerning tax advice, and also nds it rewarding to mentor less experienced staff.

AS the instore manager for the La Bimbi city salon, Kylie is responsible for the day-to-day ow of clients through the business.

“I try to ensure that each and every guest we have at La Bimbi is treated in accordance with our wonderful philosophical approach: Love hair, love fashion, love music! Could there be any better profession?”

Kylie says that she also enjoys mentoring the younger stylists and colourists through the provision of on-going in-house and external training.

“I like to think that I am helping to provide a career path for young and aspiring people to show off their talents,” she says.

“The salons are fantastic to work in – they provide products which are cutting edge and that lead the world in environmental sustainability, something close to my heart. The training is second-to-none and, importantly, the people are great to work with.

“The best thing is that everyone has fun and is exceptional in what they do,” she enthuses.

La Bimbi Salons 12 Kendall Lane, New Acton Canberra City 2601 www.labimbi.com.au Phone: 6239 6153 Email: info@labimbi.com.au

CityNews October 15-21 27

Lil' Blossom – Boutique Florist & Events Ground Floor, Cinema Centre Building, 29 Bunda Street, Civic Phone: 6162 1780 Email: info@lilblossom.com.au

Lily Rimanic Real Estate PO Box 3131 Manuka, ACT 2603 Phone: 0418 263 040 Email: lily.rimanic@actwide.com.au

Maria Selleck Properties 30 Bougainville Street, Manuka Mobile: 0417 258803 Email: maria.selleck@mariaselleck. com.au 28 CityNews October 15-21

Adi Watters

Tracy Hayes

MANAGER / OWNER

MANAGER

ADI loves creating displays and has always had a passion for owers and plants, as well as all aspects of design.

“I am inspired by creating displays that have only a momentary beauty,” she says.

Having completed her training under Edwina Wagland, founder of Prickles, Adi drew from that her own unique style.

Now, with her own business, which she has realised her greatest achievement.

“Putting your concept – essentially yourself – out there and watching the response is the most terrifying part of it,” she says.

“Every time I hear someone compliment Lil’ Blossom, that’s growth, and that makes me smile – it’s lil' achievements every day.”

Building a recognisable brand is currently a priority for Adi, but she does have future plans. “Eventually I’d love to incorporate event co-ordination or branch out into small-scale landscape design – they’re two little passions of mine.

“I like to live by Confucius’ ideal that if you choose a job you love, you’ll never work a day in your life.”

THERE is nothing ‘Hazy’ about this young female professional!

Tracy Hayes is an inspiration to all chartered accountants and young female professionals.

Commencing with Maxim in 2004, Tracy has become one of the signicant links in Maxim’s business services team.

“I love the young, vibrant culture at Maxim, and the fact that I get to experience working on a whole range of business services, not just tax accounting,” she says.

Tracy’s specialisation in property and property-related service clients has allowed her to develop a strong knowledge base of these industries.

Her expertise and technical knowledge in these areas has enabled her to highlight issues and to provide clear solutions to many of Canberra’s elite businesses in managing their taxation obligations.

By leading the way with her insights, professionalism and personality, Tracy is a valuable and respected part of the Maxim team. Her input has aided Maxim in being as a serious player to stay ahead of their game.

Maxim Chartered Accountants PO Box 4259, Manuka Phone: 6295 8744 Email: info@maximca.com.au

Lily Rimanic

Jo O'Sullivan

BUSINESS OWNER

COMMUNITY BANKING MANAGER

ALWAYS the quiet achiever, Lily Rimanic is Canberra’s property sales specialist. Investors requiring property management services are referred to independent experts in that eld; to people who, like Lily, would rather excel in one area than provide average service in two.

Her clients applaud the difference: “We chose Lily as our agent for a number of reasons: we were referred by a trusted friend; she wasn't part of a large organisation; we appreciated her prompt response to our initial call; we liked her condence,” said J & C Gilmour.

“From the outset, her honesty and competence led us to trust her totally with our affairs. We truly appreciated her intelligent approach, especially to technical issues that arose, and the time she took to deal with them.

“We were impressed with her positive attitude under the most trying conditions, the care she took to keep us informed, her courteous and honest dealings with all parties, her decisiveness and her advice.

We've now successfully completed our business dealings, but still think of her often.”

JO has more than 20 years experience in specialised areas of banking and nancial services and is community banking manager for one of Australia's largest National Credit Unions, mecu. “mecu is a leader in socially responsible banking practices and has been recognised nationally and internationally,” she says. “It shares much in common with the community sector, including a shared sense of values and purpose. That's why we're committed to meeting the banking needs of the community sector including schools and a host of non-government organisations, charities foundations and ‘affordable housing’ providers. “mecu aims to become the pre-eminent socially responsible banking brand in Australia.”

Jo is a board member for Tandem ACT, a primary provider of disability respite services and a council member of the ACT council of Save the Children Australia.

“I will take the time to learn about your organisation, can offer great rates and products to the community sector while offering services unmatched by our competitors,” she says.

mecu Lower Level, CSIRO Discovery Centre, Black Mountain, Acton 2905 Phone: 6120 5702 Email: jo.osullivan@mecu.com.au

Maria Selleck

Adriana Shepherd

OWNER/DIRECTOR

SALES MANAGER

ALTHOUGH Maria is a rm believer in that old-fashioned service and courtesy, she represents a new breed of agency committed to delivering exceptional results for all of their clients.

In her relatively short career of seven years as a real estate agent and even shorter as a director of her own company (since January), Maria has earned her reputation as one of Canberra’s leading agents.

“I like maintaining that personal touch – it’s an important part of our business,” she says. “This has achieved great results for our clients with over 60 record-price and milliondollar sales. We have received multiple local and national achievement awards.”

Maria’s dynamic style and willingness to go the extra mile ensures top results with a minimum of fuss.

“I am enthusiastic and very passionate about real estate.

That’s why we have a very high level of repeat and referral business, a true testament to our success and the quality of our sales results.”

ADRIANA is passionate about helping businesses grow and says she enjoys watching and contributing to her clients’ success.

“I’m always looking for the latest media options and searching for new and exciting opportunities to present to clients,” she says.

Adriana has been with Motto Management for three years, with nine years’ experience in the advertising/media sales industry.

“I’m a positive and creative team member, able to form strong and loyal client relationships,” she says.

Twice Salesperson of the Year at Southern Cross Ten, where she worked for six years, Adriana says she loves to contribute creative, fresh ideas and produce successful results.

“I enjoy all the challenges thrown my way,” she says. “I feel lucky to be able to work with a professional, upbeat and creative team who share the same goals and work ethics as I do.”

For the future, Adriana hopes for the continued growth and success of the business, and to maintain happy, loyal clients.

Motto Media and Communications 8/41-45 Tennant Street, Fyshwick 2609 Phone: 6280 0500 Email: adriana@mottomedia.com

Nspire Recruitment 100 Gungahlin Place, Gungahlin 2912 Phone: 1800 733537 Email: kham@nspirerecruitment.com.au

Papercut 18 Bent Street, Turner 2612 Phone: 61624045 Email: claire@papercut.net.au

Personal Property Services & Personal Property Cleaning Services Phone: 6259 6666 Email: pps.act@bigpond.com PO Box 1076, Dickson

Kham Xaysavanh

Justine Lockwood

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

DIRECTOR

WITH a passion for ICT recruitment and a commitment to impeccable service, Kham discovered a niche market within the industry and started up Nspire Recruitment in Canberra and then opened ofces nationally.

Nspire Recruitment’s unique selling proposition is quality service delivery, substantially lower fees and consultative approach to business.

Kham says she has an exceptional skill in partnering with organisations to understand their strategic business drivers and tailoring recruitment solutions around these requirements.

She holds strong values of integrity, trust and upfront honesty.

“Nspire Recruitment’s success is underpinned by our long-term business relationships and excellent reputation,” she says.

For more information visit www.nspirerecruitment.com.au or call Kham on 1800 SEEKER (733537).

JUSTINE started her company the same week her third child, now 18 months old, was born.

“I didn’t want to be a public servant forever,” she says.

“Property management was a natural choice as I have a passion for investing, especially in property.

“Also, my mother had a property management business when I was younger, and I would help out, and my sister (and business partner) is a property manager.”

Justine runs the marketing, client relations and strategic planning side of the business.

“I’m the ideas person,” she says. “I’m always looking for improvement, especially in ways we can improve our service to our customers.”

“I believe people should expect their properties are going to be managed professionally and efciently, just like any other investment such as shares or superannuation.”

Time is Justine’s biggest challenge. “As with anyone who is a business owner and a mother, there never seems to be enough hours in the day to t everything in!” she says.

Personal Property Services & Personal Property Cleaning Services PO Box 1076 Dickson Phone: 6259 6666 Email: pps.act@bigpond.com

Claire Connelly

Rachel Bird

DIRECTOR

OWNER

A TYPICAL day for creative director Claire Connelly can see her overseeing a slew of design projects and perhaps doing a bit of designing herself; developing new business; taking client briefs; quality checking work; directing staff – all the while maintaining Papercut’s passionate “green” focus.

“I see Papercut continuing to grow and develop whilst making sure we never lose sight of our purpose and the reason we are in this exciting industry,” Claire says. “I hope that all designers will adopt the environmental issues we face and offer clever considerate ideas to clients to combat waste and ensure we are kind to this planet.”

Originally a window dresser and merchandiser, Claire discovered graphic design late in her career and says she found her passion.

“A love of art and design and the application of those two things to a viable business and progressive industry was the attraction,” she says.

Her tips for being successful in business? “Balance, perspective, foresight and enthusiasm!”

RACHEL Bird opened her own rm just over four years ago and since then her practice has expanded to 10 staff members.

Rachel and her team offer advice in all areas of law with the exception of conveyancing.

“We pride ourselves for being results driven and down to earth,” she says.

“We are not afraid of going to court. We go to court to win, having our client’s best interest’s rst in our minds.”

Rachel was a nalist in the 2008 Telstra Business Woman’s Awards in the Business Owner category for the ACT. She is also a member of the ACT Woman’s Lawyers Association, NSW & ACT Law Societies, and has been a member of Law Society Committees between 1998 to date in both jurisdictions.

Rachel and her team practise in both the ACT and NSW.

Rachel Bird & Co Phone: 6248 6616 Email: rachel@rachelbird.com.au

Kirsty Clark

Catherine Andrews

DIRECTOR

MANAGING DIRECTOR

KIRSTY followed in her mother’s footsteps and worked in her property management business in Adelaide when she left school.

“I enjoyed the face-to-face client contact and the diversity the industry offers,” she says.

“We decided to start the cleaning company as I am particular about the way a property is kept and I had difculty nding a cleaning company that delivered to the standard I expect for my clients.”

With a degree in applied science, a full agent’s licence and 17 years in the industry, Kirsty manages the property portfolio and is the main point of contact for all property-related matters.

“We have increased our client base by 500 per cent in the past year,” she says. “I’m the details person in the business!”

“It’s my hope that our business grows to become a prospective client’s rst choice to consider when choosing a property manager, and that our company will provide one of the best services in Canberra.”

CATHERINE Andrews is managing director of RMC (Recruitment Management Company), an Australian company established in Canberra in 2000 by a group of former senior APS ofcers.

Catherine took on the role of MD in 2005 having held management positions at the University of Canberra, Canberra Theatre Trust and the Federal and ACT Government.

An early career challenge was her role as planning analyst/ operations co-ordinator for the XII Commonwealth Games in Brisbane in 1982. This led to initiatives in event management in sport (World Cup Athletics and University Games), the arts (a founding member of the Capital Arts Patrons Organisation) and theatre (National Festival of Australian Theatre). She is a founding board member of GreaterGood, the Capital Region community foundation.

RMC has a network of senior consultants working in all capital cities providing a range of recruitment and project support, training and resource services to 60+ public sector agencies.

Like Catherine, RMC’s consultants deliver a wealth of senior and diverse public sector experiences.

Recruitment Management Company, RMC PO Box 167 Deakin West 2600 Phone: 1300 668832 Email: catherineandrews@rmco.com.au

CityNews October 15-21 29

Richard Luton Properties 6/205 Anketel Street & Shop 20 Hyperdome, Tuggeranong 2903 Phone: 6293 2323 or 0410 564284 Email: susan.jamieson@luton.com.au

Richard Luton Properties Mobile: 0418 294192 Email:maria.tarzia@luton.com.au

Richard Luton Properties Mobile: 0404 895729 Email: Jackie.rettie@luton.com.au

30 CityNews October 15-21

Sue Jamieson

Christine Shaw

SALES CONSULTANT

REAL ESTATE SALES EXECUTIVE

HAVING been a proud Canberra resident for more than 20 years working in both the public as well as the private sectors, Sue says she has nally found her niche in real estate and she nds it the most rewarding and challenging job of her career.

"It is a joy to wake up every morning to go to work,” she enthuses.

“The greatest part about my job is meeting new people every day and trying to help them achieve their dreams of being a homeowner.”

Sue says that having happy clients through delivering a rst-class service not only to the vendor but also the buyer, helps make the property dealing process as stress free as possible.

“I joined Richard Luton Properties because of their highly recognised and established brand, as well as their ethical reputation as one of the most respected agencies in the ACT,” she says.

“It’s the reason that more Canberrans buy homes from us than anywhere else.”

“I WAKE up each morning enthusiastic about my work, and deciding on a real estate career 15 months ago was denitely the right choice,” says an enthusiastic Christine Shaw, a sales executive with leading Canberra real estate agent Richard Luton Properties.

After 30 years in management positions in human resources, overseas aid, conference consulting and social policy initiatives around Australia, Christine believes that she brings “a truly unique” approach to real estate.

“When you deal with me, your privacy will always be respected, and I will be honest and frank in my communication with you – no tricks,” she says.

“I’ve achieved 17 listings and 18 sales in my rst year (which was deemed a difcult year by many analysts), have assisted our RLP Executive to write a tender and co-wrote our submissions to the REI ACT Awards.

“I can make the selling experience enjoyable and I have past clients ready to speak with you before you decide on your agent.”

Richard Luton Properties Phone: 0405 135009 Email: Christine.shaw@luton.com.au

Maria Tarzia

Aniko Carey

SALES CONSULTANT

SALES CONSULTANT

AFTER 25 years in the hairdressing industry, Maria Tarzia decided it was time for a career makeover and made the move into real estate.

“In hairdressing, I felt I had a positive inuence on people’s lives and felt that I could do the same in a broader eld such as real estate. Hair is very important for a person’s positive image and clients are very discerning when choosing a hairdresser. The same applies to real estate and choosing the right agent with whom you are able to establish a trusting relationship with strong communication skills working together to achieve the best possible outcome for the sale of your most valuable posession your home!,” she says.

“The purchase of a home is also one of the most important decisions in an individual’s life. I would like to be part of that process, leaving a positive inuence and easing the sometimes stressful and daunting process of selling and buying by honest feedback and communication.”

As well as empathy for clients’ needs and wants, and high levels of customer service skills, Maria’s best attributes are her enthusiasm, communication skills, honesty, loyalty, outgoing personality and negotiation skills.

THIS month Aniko Carey celebrates her eighth anniversary as a sales consultant with leading Canberra real estate company Richard Luton Properties.

During her time with the organisation, she has been the delighted recipient of the annual “Excellence in Customer Service Award” on four separate occasions, which is an exceptional achievement. This award comes by way of direct nomination from her valued clients.

Aniko is a fully licensed agent and able to sell properties north, south, east or west – anywhere in the ACT and NSW. For the last three years she has worked together with her partner Peter (“You get two for the price of one!” she laughs).

Aniko says they nd the richest reward being able to meet lovely, new people on a daily basis.

“Peter and I always feel privileged to be invited into homes to assist individuals and families in moving forward to achieve their new direction in life,” she says.

Richard Luton Properties Phone: 62300005 or 0429 487939 Email: Aniko.Carey@luton.com.au

Jackie Rettie

Elise Knight

REAL ESTATE SALES EXECUTIVE

OWNER/MANAGER

GROWING up in a multicultural society and working with the UN, has helped real estate sales executive Jackie Rettie in her dealings with people of all backgrounds.

“I grew up in Burma under successive repressive military regimes. After leaving university, I joined the UNICEF Burma ofce and later the Bangladesh ofce,” Jackie says.

She came to Canberra to raise her children and to read postgraduate studies at the ANU in Asian studies, later working as a senior Burmese interpreter for a Federal department.

An interest in interior decoration and looking at ne houses, rst led Jackie to develop an amateur interest in real estate.

When an opening emerged at a local real estate agency, she joined it and was well trained. That was nine years ago. Now Jackie has established a high prole in her specialist area. A long list of happy vendors is her crowning achievement as she believes that her clients are the most important part of her business.

I HAVE been with Rhubarb and Me for the last three years and am proud to announce that I am now the new owner and manager.

It all began with my dream to become a hairdresser from a young age. I started hairdressing on weekends when I was 15 and when I left college I began my full-time apprenticeship.

From that time on I never looked back, combining my dream of hairdressing with my love of meeting new people. I am constantly nding fullling challenges and rewards in the job that I have devoted my life to.

I have had extensive training with the Tony and Guy Academy in Sydney, as well as exclusive and professional training with Schwartzkopf Professional and Vidal Sassoon.

I have also won numerous awards with the International Hairstylists Society.

Under my guidance, the Rhubarb and Me team will continue to bring a high, international calibre of hairdressing to the Canberra community for many years to come.

Rhubarb & Me Shop 3, 76-80 Wattle Street, Lyneham Phone: 62626111 Email: rhubarbme@grapevine.com.au

Natasha Lukin

Jasmine Pedley

PROPRIETOR

SPA DIRECTOR

WHEN a car accident left Natasha partially disabled, she tried the Shapemaster technology and found it gave her back exibility and mobility. Impressed, she decided to go into business for herself.

Shapemaster Feel Good Studio opened in February and offers a holistic approach to the body. Shapemaster toning tables, far infrared and vibration technology for detox, subcutaneous fat meltdown and instantaneous pain relief are among treatments on offer.

With a background in biology and medical research, Natasha says she loves working in a business where she can help others achieve what she achieved herself.

“Fortunately, the paradigm is changing towards better researched and pre-calculated physical exercise recommendations based on human physiology,” she says. “To push anyone Shapemaster Feel Good Studio over the limit never brings any good in the long run.”

Suite 11, 5 McKay Gardens Professional “The road to good health is not the one that requires you Centre, Turner 2612 to soak in own sweat,” says Natasha. “I believe a gentle, Phone: 6247 6267 individualised, thoughtful approach to exercise is the way to Email: feelgood@shapemastercanberra. improve your overall health and tness.” com.au

Sibu Beauty Unit 27 Nicholls Shops, 64 Kelleway Avenue, Nicholls 2602 Phone: 6241 4115 Email: sibu.beauty@gmail.com

Sibu Hair Unit 26 Kelleway Ave, Nicholls 2913 Phone: 6241 1511 Email: sibuhair@bigpond.com.au

Soma Day Spa 12 Kendall Lane, New Acton Canberra City 2601 www.soma.net.au Phone: 6162 3636 Email: info@soma.net.au

LOCATED within the NewActon Precinct, set within the heritage buildings, and overlooking Lake Burley Grifn, Soma Day Spa offers indulgence in an unsurpassed environment, says spa director Jasmine Pedley.

“My key responsibilities are ensuring all our guests receive a treatment betting the spa's reputation and setting,” she says “This includes ensuring all the operational and staff training requirements are met and surpassed.”

Soma Day Spa’s services include body treatments, facials and pedicures, massage, skin care, exotic treatments, sauna, waxing and tinting and make-up. “I love my role and responsibilities and working in a heavenly spot in the city,” says Jasmine. “We also provide specialist skin treatments, so it’s a mix of a day spa, medispa and retreat all rolled into one.

“Before each service, we ask you to complete a questionnaire which helps your therapist determine your dominant elemental inuence and the underlying causes of imbalance.

“This allows us to customise products, aromas and massage techniques to create personalised treatments and self-care rituals.”

Elissa Michel

Chantel Priestly

BUSINESS OWNER

OWNER/MANAGER

Make-up artist Elissa bought Sibu Beauty in 2008 and has enjoyed every minute of running her business, even though she also works full-time as a project manager in the public service.

“I like to challenge myself and see what I can achieve,” says Elissa. “I enjoy being busy, so my organisational skills are pretty exceptional!”

As well as make-up and spray-tanning, Elissa organises marketing and promotions for the salon, does the bookkeeping and accounts and builds relationships with staff and clients.

“Sibu has a great reputation,” she says. “I would love to eventually open another beauty salon of the same calibre.

“I'm a hard worker, have high expectations of myself and am really passionate about my work,” she adds.

“I believe that if you stop enjoying and loving what you do, it’s time to stop doing it because it always reects in your work.”

CHANTEL has always dreamed of being a hairdresser. “I have a passion for hair and love making people feel good about themselves,” she says.

A Canberra girl through and through, Chantel entered the industry straight from high school and has been working for Bentleys for six years, with several years as a manager.

“After six fantastic years of working and managing the big and wonderful team at Bentleys, I feel it’s time to branch out on my own,” she says. “I am soon to be opening my own salon called The Avenue, so keep an eye out for it!”

Chantel says that opening the salon will be her biggest challenge to date, but with the skills she has acquired during the last few years, as well as experience from working alongside the Schwarzkopf professional team in Sydney recently, she feels ready for it.

“My aim is to make it an inviting and fun atmosphere to work in,” she says.

The Avenue Phone: 0432 288876 Email: chantel.priestly@hotmail.com

Rosen Zakman

Dr Jennifer Dunlop

OWNER

MEDICAL DIRECTOR

ROSEN is the owner of Sibu Hair and says she is passionate about all aspects of hairdressing.

“We create a luscious salon environment for our clients to come to and feel really pampered,” she says. “It’s a modern yet relaxed salon and we have many loyal customers that really appreciate the fun, friendly attitude of the staff.

“I’m always trying to balance new work ethics with the old – creating a balanced team that work well together.

“I want to create an understanding and caring work environment for both clients and staff.”

With 21 years in the industry, Rosen is proud that Sibu Hair won IHS Salon of the Year 2009, and condent that the business will continue to grow.

“My aim for the future is that we keep pushing the business to the next level by maintaining continuous education and training for the staff, so that we all stay on the cutting edge of hair trends.”

DR Jennifer Dunlop is the medical director of the Capital Cosmetic and Laser Clinic in Deakin.

She has just celebrated the 10th anniversary of her clinic and the fourth in her new, purpose-built rooms in the John James Clinical Services Building.

Dr Dunlop has been a medical practitioner for 28 years and is also celebrating a silver jubilee here – it’s been 25 years since she came to Canberra in 1984.

The Capital Cosmetic and Laser Clinic is a friendly, quiet and discreet place that many people enjoy visiting to treat particular issues they may have with their skin.

Word of mouth spreads in this town and many people are encouraged by their friends, colleagues and relatives to trust the minimally invasive procedures offered by Dr Dunlop.

Often improving little things makes a big difference to someone’s life and wellbeing. “Coming to CCLC is a positive step to a brighter, clearer future where you can be more comfortable in the skin you’re in,” she says.

The Capital Cosmetic and Laser Clinic Suite 5 John James Clinical Services Bldg, 173 Strickland Cresent, Deakin Phone: 6232 4946

CityNews October 15-21 31

The Party Hive Gungahlin Place Gungahlin, 2912 Phone: 6262 2655 Email: rebecca@thepartyhive.com.au

Tiffen & Co / The Mortgage Detective 23 Jardine St, Kingston 2604 Phone: 0423 56 55 66 Email: stephanie@ themortgagedetective.com.au

Tiffen & Co/The Mortgage Detective 23 Jardine Street Kingston 2604 Phone: 62607880 Email: alison@themortgagedetective. com.au 32 CityNews October 15-21

Rebecca Ciavattone

Monica Davidson

MANAGING DIRECTOR

MANAGING DIRECTOR

REBECCA Ciavattone is Canberra's newest businesswoman, having opened her business, The Party Hive, only two weeks ago.

Like most people, Rebecca loves celebrating birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, religious occasions and life in general. However, over the years she had become increasingly frustrated and disappointed with the lack of variety and availability of affordable and unique products in one location.

After working as an operations manager in retail pharmacy for the past 10 years, Rebecca was motivated to use her extensive experience to embark on a new venture that offers Canberrans a unique range of products and services.

Her mission is to provide an inspirational shopping experience that is as exciting and fun as the celebration itself! Her goal is to deliver outstanding customer service with the motto: "If we don't have it, we will nd it for you!"

Located outside The Maketplace in Gungahlin, The Party Hive is a one-stop decorating shop and boasts Canberra largest range of character-themed party products.

MONICA established Vermillion to ll a gap in the consulting industry by providing clients with strategic and improved business outcomes.

“My experience in business and consulting has spanned 13 years, however I established Vermillion late 2008 when I felt I was at the peak of what I could achieve in the public sector,” she says.

With a background in business and corporate strategy, Monica says she provides the drive and vision to develop the frameworks and standards that Vermillion works by.

“I take pride in ensuring our business exemplies the outcomes that we seek to achieve with our clients,” she says.

“It’s rewarding to turn out healthier businesses, some of which have been struggling for more than 40 years.”

Monica says a major challenge facing the industry in the current economic climate is asking clients to see the long-term benets of investing in business improvement strategies in the short term.

“We aim to achieve that by provoking thought and inspiring action,” she says.

Vermillion Business Management

by Monica PO Box 3440, Manuka Phone: 0402 422 883 Email: monica@vbmbm.com.au

Stephanie Brennan

Viktoria Novak

MORTGAGE PLANNER

OWNER

AS a mortgage planner, Stephanie’s role is to facilitate a lending solution that suits her clients’ needs.

“Whether I’m dealing with a rst home buyer, an astute property investor or renancing existing debt, I endeavour to provide my clients with personal service and expert advice,” she says.

“Helping my clients realise the dream of purchasing their own home is very satisfying.”

Stephanie has been involved in banking and real estate for nine years, with the last six years specialising in mortgage planning.

With a background in nancial services and as a full member of the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia, she brings a fresh approach in assisting her clients with not only their current mortgage requirements but also structuring their wealth in the long term.

“Regulation in our industry is looming, and this will provide consumers with the condence that they are dealing with professional individuals. This will be good for both the industry and the home buyer.”

MILLINER, stylist, designer and business owner – Viktoria Novak is one busy lady.

“I specialise in a personalised service for customers creating fascinators, hatinators and hats with each piece meticulously designed and handcrafted by me,” says the bubbly fashionista.

“At a young age, I developed a strong passion for fashion – by seven I started collecting vintage clothing and accessories.

I obtained qualications in both interior and fashion design, and then started selling my custom-made fascinators to a growing list of clients in Melbourne and the business was born.”

Viktoria says she spends the majority of her time designing, planning, researching, consulting, and retrieving the perfect materials to be used in her creations, which she hopes will eventually be a success on the international market.

“My hat products can be worn all year round not just to the races. I want women to wear my bold creations with condence, pride and feel extra special knowing that it has been made just for them.”

Viktoria Novak Design www.viktorianovakdesign.com Phone: 0421 372733 Email: viktoria.novakdesign@gmail. com

Alison Whittle

Catherine Smith

DIRECTOR – OPERATIONS

PROPERTY INVESTMENT COACH AND ADVISOR

ALISON Whittle is a born-and-bred Canberran and has been involved in banking and nance for more than 20 years, specialising in mortgage broking since 1995.

The Mortgage Detective and Tiffen & Co, two of Canberra's longest-established mortgage-broking rms, merged in October 2008 and the new company has just been recognised as one of Australia's top 25 brokerages. Her role is to oversee the company’s business management and administration.

Alison is the local representative for members of the Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia and proudly works toward assisting educate consumers on the many benets in dealing with educated, professional mortgage brokers.

“The nance industry is under close scrutiny at the moment with impending regulation. The proposed educational and professional levels for people working in nance is a positive for the industry and, ultimately, the consumer,” she says.

“I am committed to giving back to an industry that has rewarded me professionally and personally.”

WITH ve children under 11, Catherine is the ultimate multitasker and brings an abundance of energy, enthusiasm and talent to her many different roles.

“It’s very challenging to raise a young family while also managing many businesses and clients,” she says.

Catherine is an accountant, tax agent, nancial planner, mortgage broker, real estate agent, SMSF specialist, JP in NSW & ACT, and managing director of Wholistic Financial Solutions and OzInvest Canberra.

“My aim is to help others achieve wealth and freedom in a safe, achievable way,” Catherine says. “I’m passionate about working towards a more nancially sustainable economy for all.”

Catherine brings an innate ability to structure her clients’ nancial affairs in the most effective manner possible, to enhance wealth and reduce tax while ensuring they remain nancially comfortable.

“Our company currently supports the Salvation Army homeless shelter appeal, and we’d like to do more by establishing a rehabilitation and training centre for homeless and disadvantaged children at the coast.”

Wholistic Financial Solutions/ Investor Property & Finance/ OzInvest Canberra PO Box 192, Dickson 2602 Phone: 6162 4548 Email: catherine@wholisticfinancialso lutions.com.au

all about living

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Cliff hanger gets the festival off to a bang For the new artistic director of the Canberra International Film Festival, Simon Weaving, it’s nearly time to dim the lights and get on with the shows, reports HELEN MUSA. CANBERRA International Film Festival, Simon Weaving has snared a biggie for the opening night.

It’s American director Kathryn Bigelow’s new film “The Hurt Locker”, a psychological cliff hanger that focuses on the character of a bomb-disposal expert in Iraq.

Screened at Venice last June, it’s only just come on to the market.

No film since “The Godfather” has scored so high on all fronts at the festival. Guy Pearce is one of the stars and it’s a roaring commercial success.

While Weaving thinks he’s got a good mixture of “commercial art house and more adventurous films,” he admits to piling “a few cherries on the top”.

Some of those cherries? The Australian premiere of the newest Coen Brothers movie “A Serious Man”, along with the new bio-pic “Nowhere Boy” about John Lennon’s early years (to screen in Canberra only 10 days after it premieres at the London Film Festival). Then there’s “In the Loop”, a bumbling comedy about a spin-doctor and a bumbling minister who is in need of a cover-up. “Very satirical in a Brit-

Festival opener “The Hurt Locker”… a psychological cliff hanger that focuses on the character of a bomb-disposal expert in Iraq.

One of Weaving’s “cherries”… the newest Coen Brothers movie “A Serious Man”. ish way and selling out everywhere,” he says.

And this year, the festival will have “strands”. One is a youth segment that includes the animated film “Brendan and the Secret of Kells”, set in the era where the Norsemen were descending upon the monks of Ireland. In “The Archive Connection” strand, newly restored films will be screened at the National Film and Sound Archive’s Arc cinema, including Michael Powell’s “The Red Shoes” and restorations by the Scorsese Cinema Foundation.

Australia’s strand is “Tales in the Backyard” and includes Canberra filmmaker Robert Nugent’s alternative insight into the daily lives of our soldiers in Iraq. The “Edge of Frame” strand features “Bronson”, an account of the life and times of the most violent prisoner in Britain

and already tagged “the ‘Clockwork Orange’ of the 21st century”.

Weaving’s international favourites in other strands include Alexei Balabanov’s “Morphia”, in which a young Russian revolutionary doctor becomes addicted to morphine, and the Australian premiere of “Sin Nombre”, produced by Mexican actors Gael Garcia Bernal and Diego Luna.

Weaving says overseas filmmakers are genuinely fascinated by what people in Canberra think of their work and urges everybody to get on line and have a say.

Canberra International Film Festival, October 28 to November 8 at Dendy and Arc cinemas.

Festival membership at $20 offers some half-price tickets and free screenings. Visit the website www. canberrafilmfestival.com.au.

ARTS IN THE CITY

By Jorian Gardner

Minister bows to a gossip writer IT’S unlike the Chief Minister to back down when it comes to public art, but he has bowed to the “unhelpful” comments of “The Canberra Times” and shelved his beloved Per Cent for Art scheme.

At the launch of the most recently purchased works in Civic, Jon Stanhope said he would not be re-visiting the two-year-old program, which funds public art from directing one per cent of each year’s new capital works budget. He said that “The Times” had helped turn public opinion against the public art – so he has been forced to bow to the pressure. “CityNews” suggested that he was backing away from his passionate support for public art because of the opinions of just one single media outlet, and, as Arts Minister, he appeared to be weak on the issue, to which he, politely, disagreed.

Public art in the ACT should be expanded – not contracted – no matter what a gossip columnist says, minister.

WANT to “feel the force”? “One Man Star Wars” is a new show where actor Charles Ross brings to life all the characters from the original “Star Wars” trilogy – Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, C3PO, Chewbacca et al – all on stage. Early reviews say it’s hilarious. Book at www.canberratheatrecentre.org.au.

TEMPO Theatre will present “Kindly Leave The Stage”, a comedy by well-known English playwright John Chapman at the Belconnen Theatre on November 5-14. Bookings on 6275 2700.

THE Canberra Festival Ballet’s “Gala Performance 2009” will be at the Canberra Theatre on November 20 and 21. The show provides the opportunity to showcase the finer work of our young ballet students as they grace the large, professional stage.

RON Blair’s enormously successful play “The Christian Brothers”, written in 1975 and set in the ‘50s, might appear to be a period piece, but nothing could be further from the truth because it is so much more than a simple satire of Catholic education. Local director Geoffrey Borny brings the controversial work to life at the Tuggeranong Arts Centre, on now until October 24. Bookings on 6293 1443.

CityNews October 15-21 33

arts&entertainment

Pippa’s moving plot “The Private Lives of Pippa Lee” (M)

THIS relationship drama written and directed by Rebecca Miller is a discomfiting film deserving close attention for how it tells us about its people.

Robin Wright Penn is magnificent as Pippa, wife to Herb (Alan Arkin), a publisher perhaps three, certainly two, decades older, who married her after the macabre termination of his first marriage.

Miller moves the plot about, keeping us on our toes while making us witting of events in Pippa’s pre-marital life. She now has two adult children. But now the marriage has become too familiar, confronting risks forming the film’s main structural elements that neither of them particularly enjoys.

The supporting cast includes Shirley Knight as a neighbour whose son comes home after failing at life (Keanu Reeves giving a controlled and meritorious performance), offers Pippa a rock to cling to if she chooses. Winona Ryder is good as a complex woman beset by a guilty secret. Julianne Moore is, as always, a power to be reckoned with as the lover of Pippa’s aunt.

I took true satisfaction from this film and the wisdom in its gems of dialogue. However, its directness and refusal to compromise truth may well

CINEMA

By Dougal Macdonald disturb Joe and Betty Average. Which is no reason for avoiding it.

At Dendy

such a grossly physical role that requires her to take down women twice her size. But she’s certainly an impressive actress unfazed by a role making few demands beyond the purely physical.

At Dendy

“Julie and Julia” (PG)

“Whip It” (M)

FOOD and sex are the two sensory experiences that we cannot truly experience from THIS film delivers two debuts – direction by cinema.

Drew Barrymore, who also plays one of its Nora Ephron’s film jumps between the more colourful characters, and writing by experiences that led American Foreign Shauna Cross based on people and events Service wife Julia Child to collaborate in encountered during her roller derby career. publishing “Mastering the Art of French Each manifests a tyro coming new to a Cooking” and, four decades later, young trade. graduate and wife Julie Powell overcoming Ellen Page plays 17-year-old Bliss whose the terminal boredom of a public service mom (Marcia Gay Harden) wants her to call centre by writing an internet blog become Bluebonnet Queen in a small Texas about her experiences cooking the book’s 542 recipes within a year. town. But Bliss wants to get rough and tough with the girls in the high-speed, Dramatising a cookbook requires a high-powered contact sport of roller derby, courageous effort that by and large has in which the only rule seems to be don’t kill achieved its ambitions, but the film’s your opponent. drama falls short of crisis or tension. With Much of Cross’s screenplay doesn’t a vocal inflexion evoking memories of withstand close examination, offering Hyacinth Bucket, Meryl Streep offers a clichés, stretching credibility, telegraphing vintage performance as Julia Child and Amy outcomes and sidestepping the bleeding Adams isn’t troubled by the role of a young woman who finally finished a project she‘d obvious. But in an immature way, it’s good fun after making allowances for its begun. But the pair worked to far better gratuitous violence on and off the skating effect when they confronted each other in “Doubt”. track.

Page looks too petite and vulnerable for At all Canberra cinemas

Engaging night with the ‘Shrew’ BELL Shakespeare’s “The Taming of The Shrew” set high aims and standards for itself. And it mostly achieved them.

While performances were uniformly strong, Jeanette Cronin’s Petruchio and Emily Rose Brennan’s Bianca displayed a totally captivating flexibility that ensured constant engagement with the audience.

It was a bonus to experience the excellent performances of Sandy Gore and Judi Farr, two virtual icons of Australian stage and screen.

The design featured a totally open stage, like a wedding function room in a club. This provided a clear context for the work, while also providing difficulties for vocal acoustics.

34 CityNews October 15-21

the force of her charismatic husband and the social compliance of family and sycophant friends, we see what Orwell saw in “1984”: One person must accept the dogma of another in order to survive.

The problem for the production was that after setting up such a clear setting with The ritual submission of one person by an all-female cast, the final scene provided another is shrouded in a sense of social a vague and self-conscious take on the sanctioning and cultural light-heartedness “shrew’s” final compliance and surrender. that denies and masks through the veneer Cronin’s showing of Petruchio’s of its costumes and dress up. private moments expressing genuine Marion Potts’ direction and Anna love for Kate was telling. But is his need Tregloan’s design were masterful in these for total compliance the source for his scenes. own destruction like that of King Lear As Lotte St Clair’s Kate began to at the hands of his seemingly compliant disappear and have her life drained by children?

THEATRE

“The Taming of The Shrew”

By William Shakespeare, directed by Marion Potts. Canberra Theatre, until October 17 Reviewed by Joe Woodward

ACT Association for Advancing Disabled Sport and Recreation

Presents

A lunch and auction to raise funds for ACT people with a disability to help them at work or engage in their favourite recreation or sport. With speaker, journalist Jack Waterford.

Date: Thursday, October 29 TIME: 12 for 12.30pm VENUE: The Brassey Hotel, Barton Cost: $75 enquiries: 6239 7919 or 0409 308410

dining

Bite of the past IT’S a good, old-fashioned steakhouse that hasn’t changed much (if at all) since it opened its doors in the ‘60s, but the décor isn’t why you go to The Charcoal Restaurant. It’s mostly about the good old Aussie beef.

It was our first time at this award-winning Canberra institution that has built its reputation on serving big, juicy, tender, mouth-watering steaks – cooked exactly to order – and some amazing wines including cellar master selections and a few Grange Hermitage (one for $902 if you feel like splurging).

The Charcoal Restaurant has an old-fashioned, homey feel with wooden tables and dark, warm colours – we wondered if we’d be the only women (we weren’t) and could imagine the times when the “blokes” would sit smoking big, fat cigars after a huge meal. And we had a giggle over the placemats featuring jackaroos on their horses with the station dog running alongside.

The tables are close to one another so we struck up a conversation with those sitting next to us.

The gentleman told us he has frequented the restaurant for years – he used to take his daughters there and now he takes his granddaughters for a special treat. The couple recommended we indulge in the house-made pate, which we did.

Move over Maggie Beer. This chicken pate with green peppercorns is silky smooth and to die for – a perfect dish to share.

It’s no surprise there’s a massive range of beef dishes. You can get charcoal sizzling cuts starting from 350 grams ($40.70) up to 1000 grams ($57.20).

My super tender fillet mignon, wrapped with a piece of salty bacon was sensational ($34.50).

Enough iron to keep me going for days. My friend’s

Dance that Janine built DANCE

“The House That Jack Built” Janine Ayres Aerial Dance in collaboration with cast and crew.

By Janine Ayres. Sound selection by Lanny K and Miss Yetti. The Street Theatre, season closed.

Reviewed by Joe Woodward

DINING

By Wendy Johnson pepper steak – pan-fried eye fillet – was equally wonderful ($37.40).

Both dishes came with a big baked potato in foil and we were offered a whopping dollop of sour cream and fresh chives. A small dish of steamed vegetables balanced the meal.

If you’re not a beef lover The Charcoal Restaurant also has chicken dishes (including Kiev, Maryland and Parmigiana), veal (including Cordon Bleu) and fish (including lemon sole). This is not a place for vegetarians, but then the restaurant doesn’t aim to be.

The trip down memory lane carries through to the desserts. Steamed pudding with brandy custard, chocolate mousse with crème de menthe and crepes made the traditional way, are all on the menu.

The Charcoal Restaurant has a wonderful selection of red wines, as you would expect for a top steakhouse, including from most of Australia’s best-producing wine districts. The list included several varieties from my favourite local winery, Pialligo Estate. We opted for the Shiraz ($38.50) after umming and ahhing over whether to order the Sangiovese or the Merlot.

The restaurant isn’t huge, but hugely popular so best to book ahead.

The Charcoal Restaurant, 61 London Circuit, Civic, call 6248 8015.

The Charcoal Restaurant… mostly about the good old Aussie beef.

ONCE inside “Jack’s House”, the ebb and flow of patrons and their desires are like foam on choppy seas. The pounding of the music and the constant gyrations of bodies moving in the misty space is the cache from which builds some beautifully formed moments of clarity in dance and aerial.

Adnane Nemri’s Jack is charismatic yet detached. He is the ultimate cool which drives the engine of the house.

Hip-hop and house dance weave the stories of the individuals who seek a kind of refuge and reality within the loud beat of the Lanny K and Miss Yetti.

Janine Ayres had set up a simple form for the work and remained uncompromisingly true to its own vision and her dance and aerial structure.

With some very skilled cast members, this provided a challenging and outstanding evening for the audience.

With virtually no budget she managed to create a powerful work that would benefit from reincarnations in festivals over the next couple of years.

CityNews October 15-21 35

It’s all in the jeans

fashion Sass & Bide denim “Did it for the club” neon night jeans, $290 from Soho.

DENIM hasn’t been this interesting for years! As we throw off basic black and embrace colour, jeans are coming to life as well – and just as with hemlines, there aren’t a lot of rules.

A darker, conservative wash is probably still best for casual Fridays, but on the weekend, try some of the new ‘80sinspired washes – and yes, rips and tears are back!

Studs, sequins and embroidery add the finishing touches to this season’s denim – team them with a boyfriend jacket, a strappy bright shoe and step into spring.

– Megan Haggan

Ripped and Worn Bleach Tube jeans in Super Bleach, $69.99 from Forever New.

Shop 8, Centrepoint, Canberra City MD0430

(Diagonally opposite the merry-go-round)

6247 4855

dK Collection embroidered jeans, $69.95 from dK Collection.

Junk Denim jeans from Mirage, $25 (sale price).

36 CityNews October 15-21

Riders High Super Skinny jeans, $119.95 and Bow belt, $59.95, from Seduce.

CityNews October 15-21  37

body Mum in the city

By Sonya Fladun

Discipline, who needs it?

I CAN’T say I’ve ever been a great fan of discipline, but as a parent I’ve come to appreciate its value every now and again.

We all come to parenting with memories of our own childhood. For me, the subject of discipline always brings to mind my grade six teacher Miss McDwyer, a very strict disciplinarian who was always ready with her ruler to smack someone’s palm for talking out of turn or failing to pay attention.

Then there was my father, a career army officer who managed to serve in no less than three armies (German, American and Australian). He was heavily into strict discipline. Even now, I can hear the commands: “Quick march! Left, right...”.

Naturally, I responded to this by going in the opposite direction. I’ve always favoured a gentle approach to life with plenty of slippage on all sorts of absolutes, rules and regulations. I’d rather rely on reasoning, negotiation, lots of Pine-o-Clean and a bit of bribery.

But walking around a shopping centre during the school holidays, I was sorely tempted to follow Miss McDwyer’s example. Groups of 13 and 14-year-olds were running amok, heckling passers-by (including elderly shoppers), going into shops to be disruptive and hurling abuse at two ambulances that turned up – I’m not sure whether or not the kids had made a hoax call or not.

These ill-behaved teenagers did bring out in me the most amazing desire to give them a damned good rap across the knuckles with Miss McDwyer’s ruler.

Later, I was thinking about how essential at least a rudimentary level of discipline is for a child’s social development. From early on a parent ought to be setting the fundamental boundaries and ground rules such as never to hurt others and do unto others as you would like done unto you.

Of course, it shouldn’t be about physical punishment, but it should be about giving children the life skills that most of us have had instilled in us by an earlier, and often somewhat stricter generation of parents. Because, knowing my parents, if I had behaved as a teenager like those I witnessed the other day, I’d still be grounded!

38 CityNews October 15-21

Rainbow

Red: The anti-oxidant lycopene gives tomatoes, watermelon and red capsicums their red colouring: it helps strengthen the immune system and fight heart disease and prostate cancer.

Indigo and violet: Purpleblue fruits and vegetables such as beetroot, eggplant, purple grapes and blackberries have a mild antibacterial effect due to the anthocyanins (another antioxidant) within!

briefly October is breast cancer awareness month. Here are two events:

Chick central

CENTRAL Café Queanbeyan is hosting “Chick Central” at 6.30pm on October 20 as a fundraiser for breast cancer research. There will be bubbly on arrival, nibbles, bottomless tea and coffee, a guest speaker and prizes.

Tickets $30 each from Central Cafe, call 6297 1335.

A charmed night

A GROUP of clairvoyants, psychics and mediums, and masseurs, will combine for a “Charmed Night – Girls Night In” fundraiser which will include demonstrations of past-life regression, psychic readings, prizes, raffles, New Age items for sale, hand massages, bra fittings and a silent auction. It’s at Olims Hotel, Braddon, at 6pm on October 31. Entry is a $20 donation to the Cancer Council (via www.girlsnightin.com.au).

(food) connection “EATING a rainbow” isn’t just for kids – it’s a good way to incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables into our diets…

Green: Green leafy vegetables contain loads of nutrients – and the darker the green, the better!

Iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and several vitamins including folate abound in foods such as spinach and lettuce.

Yellow: Citrus fruits such as lemons and grapefruits are rich in vitamin C to help fight winter coughs and colds – and vitamin C helps other nutrients, like iron and folate, be absorbed.

Orange: Orange foods such as pumpkin, carrots, mangos and apricots contain vitamin A for healthy skin and teeth.

Photos by Silas

CityNews October 15-21 39

health&fitness

Angus Harding… “By the time a craving kicks in, you generally won’t make the best choices.”

Photo by Silas.

When cravings start to bite

By Kathryn Vukovljak BEATING cravings comes down to a holistic approach,

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40 CityNews October 15-21

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says Angus Harding, personal trainer at Alive! Health and Fitness.

“Cravings are caused by a lack of nutrients in the diet,” he told “CityNews”.

“The body knows it needs something, but by the time a craving kicks in, you generally won’t make the best choices.”

Some people crave chocolate and fatty foods because they think of them as forbidden, says Angus, and that can also be a factor in determining why we crave certain foods. But if you’re getting enough nutrients then you shouldn’t get cravings at all, and nothing should be “banned”.

The secret is to eat healthily and frequently, says Angus. “The problems start when there’s too long a gap between meals and

desperation kicks in – that’s when your body will crave something to give quick energy.

“Most people simply don’t eat often enough, and certainly don’t get the recommended daily five vegetables and two fruit. Eating six smaller meals per day will mean that you can have some chocolate or whatever it is you fancy, but it won’t be a big deal and you won’t eat that much of it.

The most important thing is not to obsess, says Angus.

“Obsessing is not healthy – if you set out to do something in a certain way then you will be disappointed when things don’t go as planned. There’s no exact way to do it – just find a balance that works for you,” he says.

general knowledge crossword

your week in the stars

No. 233

ACROSS 1 Name the positively charged particle of an atom.

8 What is a person named to carry out the provisions of a will?

9 In racing, when a protest is not dismissed, it is said to be what?

10 Name the administrative centre of the Blue Mountains in NSW. 11 Which portable container is used for boiling water?

13 What is a Tibetan monastery called?

16 Which crystallised purple or violet quartz is used in jewellery?

19 Wimbledon is the international tournament centre for which ball game?

1 2 22 What is an alternative name for a law-breaker?

24 Who are those people that are hired as crowd members in films?

25 Which spectacles have two lenses - one for near, 9 and the other for far vision?

26 Name those fish which swim upstream to spawn.

DOWN 2 Name the monetary unit of India.

3 What is another term for larceny?

4 Name Australia's most well-known bushranger (3,5).

5 With which arm does an orthodox boxer lead?

6 Which persons are sworn to deliver a verdict in a case submitted to them?

7 Which military aircraft is designed to carry and drop explosive weapons?

12 What is a ponderous volume called?

14 Which case, filled with soft material and inner springs, is used on a bed?

15 Name the Biblical garden which was the first home of Adam and Eve. 17 What is a small, round, thick, doughy tea cake?

11

18 What is an involuntary shaking of the body or limbs, as from fear, etc?

20 Which term relates to birth?

21 What is an adult insect called?

23 To be deprived of the sense of hearing is said to be what?

Solution next week

3

4

7

10 12

17

14

20

21

23 24

25 26

Sudoku hard No.17 Sudoku is an 81, square number Solution Crossword No.232 U G A C O R E L L A grid with nine S Y R I N G E U E N blocks each T O A N I G G A R D I N S I G H T B T E containing nine N S R R H Y T H M S cells. To solve O A E E V E N O M S A C O R N S the puzzle, all U U E H the blank cells D E C A G O N L S I must be filled in U L E U P S I L O N P E E L E R S I E E using numbers E U S E C U A D O R from 1 to 9.

D E S C E N D S S S Each number can only appear once in each Solution Sudoku row, column medium No.17 and in the nine 3x3 blocks. You can successfully solve the puzzle just by using logic and the process of elimination.

Solution next week

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

Don’t be in such a rush Rams! You’re keen to get things moving but a slow and steady approach has a better chance of leading to long-term love. If you are already attached, this week’s stars favour cosy companionship as you and your partner rejuvenate the relationship with some special romantic moments.

With va-voom Venus in your sign (until November 8) you’re at your luscious Libran best as you charm those around you and flirt up a storm. Singles - with Mars in lusty Leo, don’t be shy about pursuing someone who you fancy. In the words of birthday great Pablo Picasso “One must act in life as in a painting – directly.”

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

There’ll be opportunities to improve your professional life this week. Some lucky Bulls will get a bonus or pay rise, while others will find ways to make your work space more aesthetically pleasing. There’s plenty of practical work to be done – and you’re just the person to do it.

With the Moon and then the Sun moving through your sign, you need to relax your grip on someone - don’t let your possessive streak ruin a promising relationship. Your investigative talents are on fire this week, so it’s the ideal time to dig up information on the family history. No secret is safe from a Scorpio super-sleuth!

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

15

18 19

22

6

8

13

16

5

With Joanne Madeline Moore October 19 - 25

Fabulous Mercury/Neptune aspects highlight your creativity, and your international contacts. Gemini artists, musicians and performers will feel particularly inspired. And it’s the perfect time to jump on the computer and catch up with overseas friends – or book your next holiday.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22) Crabs can be “comfort spenders” (and comfort eaters). When you feel emotionally vulnerable, you treat yourself to expensive clothes and sweet treats. With impulsive Mars in your money zone, it would be wise to avoid window shopping over the next seven days – and leave your credit card at home.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21) This week you need to reign in your extravagant side, temper your indulgences, and learn the lessons of moderation and balance, especially at work. Saturn will not take kindly to you being lazy, wasteful or careless. Try to walk the middle path. Too much of anything will only get you into trouble – and debt!

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) The Sun’s shining in your career zone early in the week, which means the spotlight is on your professional performance. Exciting opportunities will spring up at work so keep your eyes and ears open. If you combine a positive outlook with a solid work ethic, then you’ll be unstoppable.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Have you fallen in love with a perfect angel?

You’re idealising your partner, but try to love their human side as well – flaws and all.

Sooner or later they’ll come tumbling down from the pedestal you’ve put them on, and that’s when the real relationship will begin.

Lasting love isn’t blind!

You’re restless for new challenges and adventures. Outdoor activities would suit (like camping, hiking or biking) plus it’s the perfect time to plan your next holiday. You’re hard to pin down this weekend, as you jump from one project to another. Your approach looks chaotic to others but you know what you’re doing – don’t you?

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22) Creative business strategies are favoured this week, as you find clever ways to make your money work harder for you. The weekend’s stars highlight obsessive, fussy behaviour (something you’re familiar with on a daily basis). So pick your obsession of choice and do what you do so well!

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) This week you’re keen to do your own thing but romantic relationships and work responsibilities come first at the moment.

There’ll be plenty of room for ‘me time’ later on. A loved one looks to you for comfort and support on Saturday, so find the time to give it gladly.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2009.

CityNews October 15-21 41

all about property Save the planet, grab a cardie

The feeling of space and light THIS three-bedroom ensuite house at Banks offers a feeling of space and light, with high ceilings and exposed timber beams.

With the family room and meals area handy to the kitchen, this low-maintenance property could be suitable for a young family or elderly couple.

The three bedrooms have outlooks and the master bedroom has its own walk-through wardrobe and ensuite.

The four-car, lock-up garage has been partially converted to a studio, but suitable for a games or hobby room.

It sits on a block of about 811sqm and backs onto a reserve with a playground.

Address: 14 Troughton Street, Banks.

Auction: On site, 11am, October 24.

Inspection: By appointment.

Agent: Will Hampson, LJ Hooker Tuggeranong, 0410 689729 or 6293 7335.

THE recent Switch to Green conference contained a half-joking challenge for public servants (who tenant around 60 per cent of Canberra’s office buildings) to take the “cardigan challenge”. This could well apply to all of us, especially if we really want to make a committed effort to combat climate change.

Canberra has been experiencing cardigan weather recently. The rain has been lovely for the garden, but the weather has implications for the ACT's carbon footprint: Very hot or cold weather in Canberra always means that air conditioners have to work harder to maintain tenant comfort, but at a greater carbon cost.

Remember the days when office workers of all types would dress for the weather instead of simply assuming that the office air-conditioning would smooth out the seasonal changes? The challenge is to revisit those days. Try bringing cardigans to work on colder days (and dress shorts with long socks in summer?). We may even see the reemergence of the safari suit, though

Property

By Catherine Carter some might consider this too big a sacrifice for saving the planet!

In 2005, Japanese Prime Minister Koizumi suggested dispensing with ties and jackets at work on hot days.

The result was the rise of the wellcut, short-sleeved business shirt.

The European Economic Union took up the idea in 2007, with the suggestion that commissioners dispense with neckties in inappropriate weather.

If such traditional societies can consider making sartorial sacrifices for the sake of the planet, surely Australia, given our more informal approach to dress codes and our warmer climate, can do at least as much.

Let us be proud of our national weekend dress code and consider borrowing some of it for the office, too.

Catherine Carter is the executive director of the ACT Property Council

CityNews October 15-21 43

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CityNews October 15-21  45

TI ON AU C

“MEDOC HOUSE” WAHGUNYAH/RUTHERGLEN THE GRANDEUR OF YESTERYEAR

GRACIOUS LIVING IN AN HISTORIC HOME – 10 ACRES(4.0 HA.)

Located in the heart of the Rutherglen/Wahgunyah vineyard and wineries precinct, 2 ½ hours from Melbourne, directly opposite Coeld’s Winery and Pickled Sisters café. Originally built by Frenchman Camille Reau in the 1890’s of brick construction with pise extension added later, designed by well known architect McNight. Set admist a lovely rambling country garden of mature trees, shrubs and ower beds, watered by a high security water right from the Murray River. “Medoc House” features a central hall, ideal for parties and special occasions, with dark timber paneling and polished Murray Pine oors. There is a formal dining and sitting room, a smaller sitting room all with 12’ ceilings. Accommodation is by way of 5 bedrooms, 3 larger and 2 smaller, with master overlooking the garden and vineyard. The country style kitchen has been recently renovated and now incorporates electric and woodred cooking. The vineyard contains 7 acres of trellised Shiraz, Cabernet, and Durif varieties all grafted on Phylloxera resistant rootstock and drip irrigated. Outside there is a hot spa, garage, huge new brick cellar (currently being completed), excellent shedding and a new concrete post and rail perimeter fence.

“Medoc House” represents the nest country living, located in a wonderful part of Australia, close to the mountains, the Murray River and just 30 minutes from the major regional centre of Albury/Wodonga. The property has previously been a Bed and Breakfast and this could easily be repeated.

AUCTION SATURDAY, 14 NOVEMBER 2009 11.00 AM ON SITE

02 6055 3800

85 Hume Street Wodonga VIC 3690

46 CityNews October 15-21

GJ3370

Contact: Roger Bramley 0418 965042 Web: www.realestate.com.au ID 7263749

CityNews October 15-21  47

48  CityNews October 15-21