Canberra CityNews October 22-28, 2009

CityNews October 22-28 

  CityNews October 22-28

around town

Still blooming SO what if the numbers were a bit soft this year? The people who brought you Floriade (which ended on October 11) just don’t want to say goodbye. In Civic, the flags still fly, the giant tulips loom and

the signs still point, and on Commonwealth Avenue the traffic flow continues to be interrupted by the continuing presence of the temporary traffic lights (can’t someone turn them off?).

Poster boy

AN anonymous poster artist has been around town pasting a parody of the famous Barack Obama “Hope” poster, substituting the face of outgoing ACT Minister John Hargreaves. This slightly defaced picture was taken in a laneway off Garema Place.

Readers might care to muse what slogan would appropriately accompany the Hargreaves poster.

You may assume it wasn’t ”Hope”!

This is how the horn works…

Down pat

EsCARpade team member Ivan Slavich squeezes in to show Sophie Sebbens, aged one (at the wheel), Lara Agnew (7) and Anabella Sebbens (3) the sights and sounds of the car that, through fundraising, has this year raised more than $210,000 for Camp Quality.

Ivan and his co-driver Eoghan O’Byrne were presenting the cheque before heading off in the famous yellow Torana for the

esCarpade Rally from Nowra to Gilgandra.

The duo’s final tally seems likely to top $260,000 once all fundraising has been completed.

The funds will be used to run the organisation’s recreational camps for children with cancer and will make up a fair chunk of Camp Quality’s annual $750,000 budget.

Call 6287 3545 or visit www.campquality.org.au.

GIVE a bureaucrat a cow and this is what you get – a fuel management device! There’s a serious side because TAMS have got 20 of these fourlegged lawnmowers down for strategic grazing of 4532 hectares across 48 sites as part of this season’s bushfire hazard reduction program.

INDEX

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October 22-28, 2009

Since 1993: Volume 15, Number 41

Arts&Entertainment Body Dining Letters Melbourne Cup Movie reviews News Politics Property Puzzles Social Scene Sport

17-19 26 18 11 20-25 19 3-11 6 31-36 30 14-16 9

General manager: Greg Jones 0419 418196 greg@citynews.com.au Advertising sales executives: Melissa Delfino, 0415 137660 Jonathan Hick, 0415 177345 Sebastien Kriegel, 0438 198701 Scott Meikle, 0404 318888 Advertising sales co-ordinator: Rebecca Darman, 6262 9100, ad@citynews.com.au Sydney advertising sales: Ad Sales Connect, 02 9439 9929 Adelaide advertising sales: HWR Media, 08 8379 9522 Perth advertising sales:HWR Media, 08 9429 3075 COVER PHOTO: Characters from “Avenue Q”, story Page 17.

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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

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CityNews October 22-28

news

Kick back in relaxed haven WORDS: Kathryn Vukovljak PHOTOS: Silas Brown

TUCKED behind a spectacular photinia hedge, Jane Scroope’s Griffith garden is a relaxed haven of sweet scents and laidback planting.

The garden will be open to the public on November 7 and 8 as part of Australia’s Open Garden Scheme, a self-funding, not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote the pleasure of gardening.

Jane’s garden has evolved over 15 years – all the family started with was a fledgling hedge, a couple of Alistair Clarke roses, a remnant of the original prunus in the front yard and a plane tree, which still shelters the garden today.

Old-fashioned roses take centre stage in the front garden, as well as self-seeding poppies and irises that look after themselves. Hardy perennials in this area mean less watering, and a Mediterranean-style

CityNews October 22-28

October is breast cancer awareness month:

Buddies celebrating life

Local breast cancer support group Bosom Buddies will be celebrating life on Pink Ribbon Day, October 26, with a party at the Southern Cross Club. “The party is a wonderful opportunity for breast cancer survivors, their friends and family to come together to celebrate being alive and reflect on the challenges that breast cancer throws our way,” said president Sally Saunders.

Tickets can be purchased by calling 0406 376500 or 6290 1984.

Riding for research Jane Scroope stops to smell her roses. crushed brick area has recently replaced a water-hungry lawn.

Jane puts a great deal of energy into her veggie garden, with asparagus, perpetual spinach, pink garlic, zucchini, cucumber and rhubarb feeding the family. It’s a space that gives back a great deal to its owners – there’s a corner for chickens, a medley of fruit trees, strawberries, raspberries and herbs, all nestled in amongst stunning pink camellia, sturdy climbers, lily of the valley and hardy natives.

Proceeds will go to the Open Garden Scheme and The Good Samaritan Rural Outreach House of Welcome based in Three Springs, WA. The garden at 17 Stokes Street, Griffith, will be open to the public on November 7 and 8 from 10am to 4.30pm. More information at www.opengarden.org.au.

or

Pink power

or

ALL-GIRL motorbike group Girls on the Move is organising a Pink Ribbon Ride on October 25 to raise funds for breast cancer research. The annual event consists of a motorbike ride from Old Parliament House to Weston Park.

The ride starts at 10am, arriving at Weston Park at 10.30am, when a family day in the park will run until 2pm. There will be live entertainment, kids’ games, competitions, market stalls, food vendors, AFP Pipes and Drums, AFP mounted police and more.

More information at www.girlsonthemove. com.au.

Pink goodies

PINK merchandise, including pink ribbons, button badges, a bracelet, pens, lip gloss and diamante pins, is available from Credit Union Australia’s Canberra branch at 33 Ainslie Avenue. All donations will help the National Breast Cancer Foundation continue to fund research into the prevention and cure of breast cancer.

CityNews October 22-28 

politics

Legalise drugs, says doctor “LEGALISE all drugs: the war on drugs just has not worked,” is the message that former police chief from San Diego and Seattle is conveying on his Australian tour.

Dr Norm Stamper, author of the book “Breaking Ranks” is in Australia to encourage the Government to resist the path taken by the US and find a better way of dealing with illicit drugs. He will address a public meeting at the ACT Assembly 5.30pm on Monday, October 26.

Dr Stamper argues that it is time to reflect on President Richard Nixon’s “war on drugs” and ask what has it achieved. He is a key adviser to LEAP (Law Enforcement Against Prohibition), a group of about 16,000 US criminal justice professionals who are fed up with the damage caused by this failed strategy. He says: “I want to learn from what is happening in Australia and also explain and outline the mistakes the US has made.

“I would hate to see Australia going down the same track as the US where the war has clearly been lost”.

Australia has not been quite as simple-minded as the US on this issue – our governments have, at least, invested substantially in treatment and in harm minimisation programs. These have been extraordinarily successful in reducing the damage associated with the use of illicit drugs compared to countries that have slavishly followed the US model.

The difficulty for Norm Stamper is that his message challenges our intuition.

We all know and understand that the il-

CityNews October 22-28

Politics

By Michael Moore

Dr Norm Stamper…

“I want to learn from what is happening in Australia and also explain and outline the mistakes the US has made.” licit drugs are dangerous for health. We understand the damage that alcohol and tobacco, the currently legal and widely available drugs, do to our community. Our gut reaction is that if we did not prohibit cannabis, heroin and ice the situation would get much worse.

The reason that his message is counter-intuitive is it seems that making such drugs legal will surely create even more problems.

Norm Stamper’s point is that current policies have increased such burdens and he points to the US to give examples of police corruption, colossal investment in the

prison system, drug-related violence and a drain on community resources to argue that there has to be a better way.

He points to the US expenditure of $69–70 billion each year on a war that has caused tens of millions of Americans to be incarcerated for non-violent drug offences.

Research from the US National Council on Crime and Delinquency in 2006 demonstrated that the US incarcerates at a rate four to seven times higher than other western nations such as the UK, France, Italy, Australia and Germany ­– but Norm Stamper warns that we are on the same slippery slope. The majority of people in western nations who are in jail are there for drug-related crime.

The nub of Dr Stamper’s argument is that the process of prohibition actually does more damage than the drugs themselves. That is why he advocates for government control, including controlled outlets and taxation. His approach will certainly mean less drain on community coffers in the long term and has the potential to undermine the illicit drug trade. And that is why he is in Canberra to meet with politicians and policy makers in the hope that a new approach can be developed limit the harm and to minimise corruption, misery and a massive tax burden.

Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health in the Carnell government. He is a member of the group that is sponsoring Dr Stamper’s tour.

CityNews October 22-28 

news

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Paige of memories Singer Elaine Paige tells BILL STEPHENS some of the stories behind her new show.

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“A TRIP down memory lane” is how Elaine Paige describes the show she is bringing to Canberra on October 30, as part of a world tour to celebrate the 40th anniversary of her West End debut as Eva Peron in the Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber musical “Evita”, the role which shot her to world fame.

“I’ll be singing all my big hits from the musicals I’ve done over the 40 years, plus new material, and some anecdotes about the twists and turns my career has had.”

She was happy to share some of these anecdotes when we spoke recently, by telephone from London, such as how she got to introduce the song “Memory” in the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical “Cats”.

“Judi Dench had had to withdraw from the West End production after breaking her Achilles tendon. With just a weekend to recast the role, Andrew Lloyd Webber rang me and asked if I would consider taking over the role.

“He warned me that it was only a small cameo role, but as soon as I heard the song ‘Memory’, that clinched it. I knew that that song and I were meant for each other. I now think of it as my signature song”.

Surprisingly, her first shot at Broadway came much later. Paige stepped into the role of Norma Desmond in Lloyd Webber’s West End produc-

Elaine Paige… “I knew that that song and I were meant for each other. I now think of [‘Memory’] as my signature song.” tion of “Sunset Boulevard” when Betty Buckley became ill with appendicitis.

“Again, Andrew rang me up to save the day for one of his shows, and this time it was ‘Sunset Boulevard’.

“He asked me if I would take over for a sixweek season to get the show through the Christmas period. When it came to leaving the show, he asked me if I would like to do it on Broadway.

Of course, I’d been stymied several times before. I didn’t get to Broadway with ‘Evita’ or with ‘Cats’ or with ‘Chess’ so I said: ‘Absolutely I’d go’.”

Although Paige has toured Australia before, this will be her first Canberra performance. “I am looking forward to it,” she enthused. “It will be another first.”

CAM & LISA in the morning

CityNews October 22-28

sport

Perils of betting Columnist TIM GAVEL says the issue of sports gambling needs to be taken seriously before it erodes the integrity of sport in Australia.

NOWADAYS you can legally bet on everything associated with a sporting event. This year, for the first time, you could bet on the Canberra Raiders’ Cup, Rugby League Grand Final and the ACT Rugby Union decider.

The internet has broken down distance barriers, making it easier to place bets. There are also plans to provide betting via the television remote control with constant reminders of the changing odds during television commentary of major sporting events. You can also bet against other players. It appears as though every aspect of sport has a betting option.

The worry I have is the potential impact that sports gambling could have on sports people, despite Australia’s legislative controls.

“The Fix”, a book written by Canadian journalist Declan Hill, looks at the influence the multi-billion-dollar illegal Asian gambling industry could have on Australian sport if it is not carefully policed.

Hill spoke in Canberra recently at the Australian and NZ Sports Law Association’s annual conference. He pointed to the similarity in time zones between Australia and Asia as a cause for concern and the fact that, by comparison, athletes in Australia are not as well paid as they are in other parts of the world and may be susceptible to corruption.

Even though it may not happen, the mere mention of fixing sporting contests should have alarm bells ringing.

In the US, sports betting is banned in most

States (following a number of betting scandals, including players betting on their own team to lose) and in Canada it is State owned. In Germany, online betting is banned.

The 1921 Baseball World Series is one of the most famous cases where eight members of the Chicago White Sox conspired to lose the series to the Cincinnati Reds. There was also the revelation of the corruption of NBA referee Tim Donaghy who was jailed for attempting to fix the results of games through on-court rulings.

Let’s not forget the strife Mark Waugh and Shane Warne found themselves in after they received money from Indian bookmakers seeking information during the Australian cricket team’s tour of Sri Lanka in 1994.

And more recently, the inquiry into the Pakistan cricket team’s performance at the Champions’ Trophy Tournament in South Africa. The side lost two games including one to Australia.

After weeks of speculation and plenty of collateral damage the team was cleared.

Author Hill argues that illegal sports bookmakers have ruined sports in some countries with match fixing.

One of the problems associated with sports gambling is the innuendo surrounding results even if there may be nothing untoward. A player drops a catch or misses a goal or tackle and, under normal circumstances, would attract little more than critical attention, but because of sports gambling there is the possibility of wider speculation.

CityNews October 22-28

10  CityNews October 22-28

opinion

How about shooting the three dolphins?

“I SAY shoot ‘em.” Jack slapped the dinner table with his open hand. The cruet jumped; jaws dropped.

“Shoot the dolphins! How could you?” Tiffany was outraged.

“No problem,” said Jack. “I’d do it myself.”

“You are an awful man. You’re the one who should be shot!”

The rest of us around the dinner table at our Tuross Head hideaway watched the verbal rally like spectators at a tennis match. I held my peace and sipped my rather nice Coonawarra red. It eased the pain in my backside for I found myself perched on the horns of an ethical dilemma: what to do about the dolphins?

Readers who venture to the coast will be aware that about a year ago three dolphins – mum, dad and junior – were chased into Lake Tuross by a killer whale who couldn’t follow because the bar was too shallow. Once inside, they relaxed and enjoyed themselves.

Turossians welcomed them with open arms, particularly Terry O’Brien who ran the boat hire and fishing tackle business on the shore line.

Indeed Terry was a pretty dab hand at publicity and soon had TV crews and newspaper reporters zooming

THE GADFLY

By Robert Macklin around the lake taking lovely shots of “our” dolphins. And when they established a feeding routine that took them past the boatshed and restaurant each afternoon, we couldn’t have been happier. We would sit on the deck with our lattes, point and ogle as they rocked by.

However, in the months since their arrival the bar has closed completely and there’s now 100 metres of sand between lake and sea. And as climate change dries up the area, there’s no chance it will open again for 50 years till the seas rise a metre and by then the fate of a few dolphins will be the last things on our minds.

But right now, it’s becoming more urgent every day. According to local “experts” each dolphin eats 30kg of fish a day – so this little family is taking out 630kg each week from a dwindling stock of fish. Simple maths says that sometime soon the fishery will be exhausted, the dolphins will begin to starve and the amateur fishers will

dessert Tuross in droves.

“Why don’t we get NSW Fisheries to catch them and release them out to sea?” said Donny the cheery real estate chap.

“Ridiculous,” said Claude the retired banker. “Even if they could catch them – a doubtful prospect at best – it would cost thousands. It’s just not on.”

“Maybe we could feed them like at Monkey Mia,” said Cheryl.

“You can’t do that,” said Tiffany.

“You can’t domesticate a wild animal; it’s not right.”

“Someone should domesticate you,” said Jack.

Tiffany’s husband Bruce spluttered into his wine glass. He and Jack are fishing mates.

Clearly, the time had come for the host to ease himself off those pointed horns. “The answer is obvious,” I said. “This is an ethical issue of such exquisite delicacy that it’s quite beyond us. However, I do have access to a resource of immense intellectual horsepower: the readership of Canberra’s ‘CityNews’.”

“Oh perfect,” they cried in a single voice. “They’ll know what to do.”

Gentle readers, Tuross awaits.

letters

We’re with Katy on smoking CANBERRA ASH strongly supports the proposed legislation forbidding the serving of food and drink where there is tobacco smoke, and requiring underage music functions to be smoke-free. The symbolic change in name to the Smoke-Free Public Places Act 2003 will also send the right signal.

Workers in the hospitality industry, many still in their youth, will breathe more easily now that they will no longer be required to risk their health in order to keep their job. Canberra ASH would prefer these safeguards to come into force earlier than December next year. Some States have already

had these protections for workers for a number of years.

While this is yet another case of the ACT catching up with other jurisdictions, Health Minister Katy Gallagher is to be commended for her on-going efforts to limit the damage wreaked by smoking. She has also consistently sought to protect children and juveniles from the ill effects of tobacco smoke.

Ensuring that there is no glamourising of smoking at underage music functions is another important step forward.

Bogey Musidlak, vice president, Canberra ASH

Thank you, Mr Hargreaves ON behalf of Migrant and Refugee Settlement Services of the ACT Inc, we would like to praise highly the retiring Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Mr John Hargreaves, for his enormous contribution to multicultural affairs over the five- year period of his tenure.

Minister John Hargreaves has made a significant difference in the Multicultural Affairs portfolio by consulting and engaging with Canberra’s multicultural communities to develop a strategy for the future following his hosting of the highly successful 2005 Multicultural Forum.

We wish to join with many other multicultural leaders in paying tribute to Mr Hargreaves for his significant achievements, especially for his leadership and participatory approach to multicultural affairs in the ACT. He will be sorely missed as the Minister for Multicultural Affairs, but will always be remembered with great affection as a real supporter of Canberra’s multicultural communities, especially of newly arrived migrants and refugees.

Jim Andriopoulos, chairman; Dewani Bakkum, manager

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Shop 7, 240-250 City Walk – just down from the fountain (02) 6247 9553 CityNews October 22-28 11

water week

Act wisely with water

NATIONAL Water Week is a good time to think about how to act wisely and play our part in ensuring there is enough water for our current needs and for future generations.

In this special feature we take a look at the people and the ways that can help you conserve water and help make our environment a little more “water-wise”.

Putting rainwater to work THERE are several ways rainwater can be used to help reduce the use of mains (drinking) water around the home.

Rainwater from the roof can be collected and used in the garden, toilet and laundry. The use of tank water for drinking or food preparation is not recommended where there is an alternative mains water supply available. The simplest arrangement for a rainwater tank is to connect it to downpipes and use it for garden watering.

However, the maximum benefit of rainwater tanks is generated when the tank water is used for internal purposes such as toilet flushing and clothes washing as well as for garden watering.

A pump is usually necessary to boost pressure and flow if you are plumbing tank water into the toilet or washing machine, or using it in an irrigation system that requires pressure to operate. A licensed plumber must install any connection to fixtures located inside the home.

The ACT Government offers rebates for

ENTER THE CANBERRA PLANT SELECTOR COMPETITION . . . ten chances to win a $50 gift voucher from your favourite nursery HOW TO ENTER Just visit the Canberra Plant Selector on the Think water, act water website (www.thinkwater.act.gov.au).

Pick which one of the following plants found in the Canberra Plant Selector is a low (i.e. one drop) water use plant. ❐ ❐ ❐ ❐

Mint Bush (oval-leaf) Christmas Bush Grevillea (prostrate woolly form) Rhododendron

Use the online entry form on the Think water, act water website to enter the competition.

OR Cut out this entry form, tick your answer and post it to: Canberra Plant Selector Competition, DECCEW, GPO Box 158, Canberra ACT 2601.

Name:______________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________ Suburb: ______________________________________Postcode: ________________ Daytime phone number: ___________________Email: ____________________________ Only one entry per person. Entries must be received by close of business on 16 November 2009. The first ten (10) correct entries drawn will win a $50 gift voucher from the ACT nursery or garden supply store of the winner’s choice. Prizes will be drawn at 10 am, 20 November 2009 at Department of the Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water (DECCEW), Macarthur House, 12 Wattle Street, Lyneham ACT 2602. Winners’ names will be published on www.thinkwater.act.gov.au on 25 November 2009. Winners will be notified by mail or email by 30 November 2009.

A redraw for prizes not claimed or distributed, will occur at 10.00 am on 2 March 2010 at DECCEW, Macarthur House, 12 Wattle Street, Lyneham ACT 2602. Promoter: Department of the Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water, ACT Government. ABN: 41231195571.

Permit number: ACT TP 09/04193

12 CityNews October 22-28

the installation of eligible rainwater tanks with a connection to plumbing inside the home (for example, to the toilet or washing machine) for ACT residential properties connected to ACTEW Corporation's water supply network.

The size of tank best suited to your needs depends on several factors, including: • the area of roof available to capture the rain; • how the rainwater is to be used; • the available space to install a tank; and • the number of people in the house (if you plan to use the rainwater inside as well as in the garden).

You can also estimate water savings per year using the ACT Planning and Land Authority calculator at www.actpla.act. gov.au (search for “residential waterways calculator”).

The ACT Government’s “Rainwater tanks – Guidelines for Residential Properties in Canberra” provides information about installation requirements, issues to

consider, regulations and approvals, as well as tables and charts to assist in choosing the right size tank.

For information on development, building or plumbing approvals required and any plumbing regulations that must be met for the installation of a tank, contact ACTPLA on 6207 1923. For information on the ACT Government rainwater tank rebates or a copy of “Rainwater tanks – Guidelines for Residential Properties in Canberra” visit www.thinkwater.act.gov.au or call Canberra Connect on 132281.

Message in the bottles IN December, the National Museum of Australia launches a major international exhibition called “Water: H20 = Life”.

The exhibition, developed by the American Museum of Natural History in New York with contributions from the National Museum of Australia and others, explores the ways in which water has determined and shaped life on this planet.

The exhibition also addresses the issues and challenges of water management.

To coincide with the exhibition, the NMA is undertaking a partnership with ACT Waterwatch for an outreach project that invites members of communities along the Murray Darling Basin to contribute a water sample from their local river, lake, wetlands or other source together with a water analysis and accompanying words and images.

That information will be plotted on an online map that will show the people and places, the water quality and issues that communities along the Darling are dealing with.

Over the course of the exhibition, this map State to Territory across Australia’s largest water system. The objective is to help reveal the issues we are facing and recognise some of the people who are

working to resolve them.

Participants will receive a 100ml plastic bottle with a unique serial number and a return stamped addressed envelope. They will then: 1. Take a water sample from the local water resource (eg river, creek, wetlands, lake) 2. Undertake an analysis of the water sample and document the results 3. Take a digital photo of the place where the sample was taken 4. Take a digital photo of the person who took the sample holding the bottle 5. Answer the questions on the attached questionnaire 6. Return the bottle in the stamped/addressed envelope 7. Email the digital photos and the questionnaire to the email address on the questionnaire

advertising feature THE ACT’s Government’s ToiletSmart program assists residential property owners to replace single-flush toilets with four-star, water-efficient 4.5/3-litre dual-flush toilets.

Replacing an 11-litre, single-flush toilet suite with a four-star, dual-flush toilet, which uses 4.5 litres for a full flush and 3 litres for the half flush, will result in a saving of 6.5 to 8 litres of water per flush.

Over a year, this could add up to a saving of around 36,600 litres of water for an average Canberra household of between two to three people.

This program is available only to ACT homeowners for residential properties connected to ACTEW Corporation's water supply network.

To be eligible for the ACT Government rebate, the new dual-flush toilet suite must be supplied and installed by a fully licensed Master Plumbers Association ACT plumber

Take a seat for a great deal participating in the program.

For a limited time, Pensioner Concession Card holders are eligible to apply for the installation of the Caroma Slimline Connector Suite model for free (normally $390 after the ACT Government rebate). There is a limit of one free toilet suite per eligible household.

For further program information and to arrange an installation call 6241 3777, 9am-2pm Monday to Friday.

The bottles will be displayed at the National Museum during the summer school holidays so that children in particular can see the results.

For more information on how you can get involved phone 6208 5230 or email bottles@nma.gov.au.

Vicki’s winning ways EASYCARE Landscapes prides itself on the “personal touch”, says managing director Vicki Berry.

“We bring our unique landscape designs into your garden through quality construction and follow-up maintenance services,” she says.

Easycare is based in Pialligo and was established in 1999 by Vicki as a one-person family business.

Her approach to business has delivered success for the company and its customers. This success has seen Vicki, an Australian and ACT Horticulturist of the Year, recently win the 2009 Telstra ACT Business Women's Award for Business Owner of the Year.

“Our team values hard work and respects and protects the environment during all phases of design and construction,” she says.

“All of our team strive to contribute to our vision of building a sustainable and productive business that protects and improves the environment.

“Our mission is to design, build and maintain beautiful landscapes that are a sanctuary for people to escape everyday demands while enhancing the environment. We are here to enhance your life.”

For more information, call 6257 8122, go to www.easycare.com.au or visit 8 Beltana Road, Pialligo.

CityNews October 22-28 13

scene

At the ‘CityNews’ Women in Business’ function, Canberra Theatre

Leisha Jarret, Viktoria Novak and Adi Watters

Adriana Shepherd, Megan Traynor, Kylie-Ann Petroni and Deborah Olde

Kylie Peden, Tania Vidovic and Kylie Watson

Bobbi Cook, Bernadette Solar and Claire Connelly

At the Scouts’ farewell to Miss World Australia, King O’Malley’s

Michael Moore, Miss World Australia Sophie Lavers and Elizabeth Pickup

Virginia, Annabel and Valdis Luks

Harry and Koula Notaras with Trevor Wheeler

Joe and Yvonne Pino with Ted Barclay

Chantel Priestly, Deborah Webb and Jessica McAuley

Liz Talbot and Lina Prego Jayne Armstrong and Christina Triston Rattay

Wendy Johnson, Justine Lockwood and Kirsty Clark

14 CityNews October 22-28

Claire Grogan, Maria Selleck, Jennifer Dunlop and Natasha Lukin

Gail Lubbock and Donna Reynolds

Jess Sciannimanica, Carol Mitchell and Anna Sciannimanica

Anika Carey, Julie McPhail, Christine Shaw and Julie Ford

Sam Andrewartha and Toni Friend

Domenic and Mary-Anne Alvaro with Sylvia and Geoff Grimshaw

Neville Tomkins, Margaret Hancocks and Rick Goode

Francesca Kramer with Mark and Claudia Flynn

Steve Simms, Jack Harris and Jasmine Cunningham

Invite us at silas@citynews.com.au

At FitSistas ‘Girls Night In Pink Pole Party’, Braddon

Nicole Mansfield and Amanda Pulford

Melissa Vereschildt, Nadja Moore and Saffron McLean

Chantelle Grech, Rebecca Wayne and Jacqui Mortenson

Claire Gibbons and Jess Osborne

Shiromi Perera, Jen Kerrigan and Christine Wall

Angela Potter and Marilyn Parker

CityNews October 22-28 15

scene

Invite us at silas@citynews.com.au

At the Italian Film Festival opening night, Film and Sound Archives

At the Canberra Riesling Challenge Gala Awards Dinner, Hyatt Hotel

Cynthia Piromalli, Antonio Zeccola, Heather Millard and Stephanie Zeccola

Rhonda Livingston, Nadja Wallington, Phil Scott, Conny Hofmann and Maame Blay

Stephen and Leesa Cetrtek

Tim Jordan, Suzanne Bachmann and Hugo Stavio

Rachel Torrealba with Juan and Tina Rodriguez Dan and Michelle Fulton, Cate and Tim McDonald with David O'Rourke

Franco Papandrea, Father Franc Leo Jr, Archbishop Giuseppe Lazzarotto and Bagozzi Ottavio

16  CityNews October 22-28

Ken Helm and Grant Pettrie

Jacob and Gina Stein

Dan and Judy Clune

Mike Vassiliotis, Bruce Norton and David Metcalf

Jean Coddington, Soren Ohrtmann, Ann-Maria O'Rourke and Linda Donaldson

Sue and James Service

Stephanie Helm and Ben Osborne

all about living

arts | dining | race-day fashion | body | puzzles | horoscope

James takes ‘Q’ for comedy

By Helen Musa DAVID James is in danger of being stereotyped as a very funny man.

“I like the way you can get your message across with humour – even a more serious message,” he says.

That’s what he’s been doing when playing Phillip, the secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister, in the TV series “The Hollowmen”. James swears that many Canberrans have told him how painfully real the show is – “How did you know that?” they will ask.

And in case you think the cast did it all in an interstate TV studio, they got into the zeitgeist of Canberra once, shooting a scene on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin on a freezing winter’s day.

Now he’ll be here playing a comedian – more typecasting – in “Avenue Q”, at the Canberra Theatre.

The show won three Tony Awards in 2004, including Best Musical and beating “Wicked” in that category. It’s being billed as a cross between “South Park” and “Sesame Street,” with a touch of “The Simpsons”, too.

James has never done a musical before, so had to go into proper training, but then again he has appeared so frequently on “Play School” that he’s really had plenty of practice, and loves to “have a good sing.”

Besides, in 2007 he played Harry Secombe in the Sydney Theatre Company’s production of “Ying Tong, a Walk with the Goons” and believes he was well able to simulate Secombe’s light tenor.

“Avenue Q’s” director Jonathan Biggins, who played

The cast of “Avenue Q”... David James is at the front in a Hawiian shirt.

Peter Sellers in the same production, rang him up when asked: “How would you feel about doing a musical?”

“Avenue Q” proved anything but an average musical. “Imagine a kind of ‘Sesame Street’ – a slightly rundown New York tenement with human characters and puppets together and not thinking twice about it.”

It’s “quite a naughty, risqué show” filled with all sorts of wild characters…I play Brian – the wannabee stand-up comedian and one of the three human characters.”

On the non-human front, there are characters not unlike Bert and Ernie and an “adult” version of the Cookie Monster. There is also “a hilarious puppet sex scene that you won’t want to miss.”

A convention imported from older puppet traditions means the there is no attempt to hide the puppeteers – they’re visible all the time.

“It’s quite hypnotic… it’s like Shakespeare,” James says, insisting that even if you’re not into puppets, you’ll love it. ”Avenue Q”, Canberra Theatre, October 23 to November 8.

Affable, lone Elvis Costello too ambitious NOT since the pigeon-toed stomping in 1978’s “Pump It Up”, would the 55-year-old journeyman be described as gaunt. In the acoustic void of Canberra’s Royal Theatre, around 600 true believers witnessed a match-fit Elvis Costello flanked by little other than a collection of guitars.

Costello has done everything and worked with everyone. Having long since disappeared from the radar of MTV and chart positions, these days he makes music (and television) for grown-ups – and for himself.

It can be cringe-making to see an international artist in the capital – cavernous empty sections,

MUSIC

Elvis Costello Royal Theatre, October 14 Reviewed by Ian Hallett with often restrained punters serving our “boring” stereotype. Costello has played here several times though; last time stripping the ceiling paint from a sold-out Canberra Theatre with the raucous Imposters.

This night he was charming, affable and clearly happy to be on stage promoting “Secret, Profane

and Sugarcane”, his highest US charting album in 30 years.

Costello possesses a uniquely emotive, though stretched vocal range around which he constructs songs about love and life. On a big, lonely stage he stepped away from the microphone on several occasions to better project a voice rendered tinny by the poor sound. Musical highlights included songs by others, notably Springsteen’s “Brilliant Disguise”.

While artists such as Clapton and Elton can play solo for hours and mesmerise a room, Costello’s ambitious solo effort falls short from workman-like guitar skills.

ARTS IN THE CITY

By Jorian Gardner

Dendy gets Dickens in 3D

AN adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” will be the first 3D film to screen at Dendy following the installation of 3D equipment into one of its cinemas. The new system uses high-quality, reusable glasses, with LCD lenses that alternate on and off 144 times a second, helping to create a sharp image with a sense of depth. Also due soon for release in 3D is “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs” (November 26) and James Cameron’s highly anticipated “Avatar” (December 17). Releases slated the first half of 2010 include Pixar’s “Toy Story” and “Toy Story 2” and “Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland.”

AROUND the world, everyone’s got something to say about the dark and brilliant Australian cabaret/comedy star Tim Minchin.

In London, they reckon he’s the “next big thing in musical comedy” (“The Times”) and advise that Tim Minchin. “if you haven’t

caught this comic genius before, sell your grandmother to get a ticket”. I agree. He’s at Canberra Theatre on December 6 and 7. Visit www.canberratheatrecentre.com.au.

CANBERRA’S longest-running bush band, Franklyn B Paverty will mark its 35th anniversary with a reunion concert/dance/jam session at The Folkus Room, Italo Australian Club, Forrest, on Friday, October 30. The boys are calling on anyone whose played with them over the years, called dances, or danced to their music to come and celebrate.

Tickets on the door.

WISTFUL and wilful Tori Amos returns to the Canberra Theatre on November 15.

CityNews October 22-28 17

dining

review

Blakstone: Thumbs up THE Manuka food and wine scene isn’t always sure what it wants to be these days, with some long-standing bars and restaurants shutting their doors for good (Minque, Pangaea, JusQytly).

But new ventures seem to be opening just as quickly, such as Blakstone Restaurant/Bar. Blakstone admits it’s still refining its operations and the night we were there a piece of stencil art featuring Old Parliament House sitting gracefully before New Parliament House, created by local E.L.K., had been installed. It’s a fun element to the décor which is gradually being refreshed.

Blakstone is casual dining, with a new menu being launched soon. Some existing fare will remain, including steaks, tapas and pizzas.

We shared a couple of entrees from the tapas/bar menu. The mushroom arancini balls with black truffle aioli ($7.90 for three pieces) were delicious – creamy, subtle tasting and well worth a try. We found the lemongrass paste prawn spring rolls with spicy soy sesame dressing a bit greasy, but they went down the hatch nonetheless.

I ordered duck, wrapped in a crust created with lovely Szechuan spices that kept the juice of the meat intact ($28.90). It came with a small salad made with thinly sliced cucumber and vermicelli. A bit of coriander added some interest, but I couldn’t find the pickled green mango the menu promised.

My dining partner eyed the crab pasta, but settled for prawns since Blakstone had run out of crab. In the end, the dish was a

MUSIC

DINING

By Wendy Johnson lovely combination of interesting flavours, which the fresh, ripe tomatoes really soaked up, and a treat for the eyes. We agreed the amount of pasta wasn’t terribly generous for the price (or for anyone who was super hungry), but there’s some understandable to-ing and fro-ing with the price structure.

Fair enough.

The wine list has a couple of local offerings, a mark of respect for Canberra’s talent in the area. And it features other drops not so readily available about town, so thumbs up to Blakstone for that.

To top off the evening we shared a refreshing lemon semifreddo. If you’re a lemon fan you won’t be disappointed, and we weren’t.

The structure of Blakstone is essentially the same as its predecessor Pangaea, but the owner is sprucing up the area at the front so it’s more of a bar, which is a good idea for Manuka. There are two levels of dining inside and a huge outdoor area which gets great sun for those who love to eat al fresco.

Will we be back to road test the new menu, or try lunch (perhaps al fresco)? You bet.

Blakstone Restaurant/Bar, Furneaux Street, Manuka, call 6232 6600.

FREE BBQ EVERY WEEKEND Relax and unwind after work with chilled music, free food & cheap drinks.

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.

18 CityNews October 22-28

Date: Thursday, October 29

Resident DJ Chad Sexington is back for the warmer months playing smooth, relaxed beats 5-8pm Happy Hour ($4 basics) 5-7pm - Complimentary BBQ food selection cooked fresh on the outdoor terrace 5.30-6.30pm

Cost: $75

Kick back with a sparkling drink special: piccolo buckets, champagne cocktails and 17 different Australian and French sparkling wines

enquiries: 6239 7919 or 0409 308410

For enquiries phone 6232 0322 Corner of Canberra Ave & National Cct, Forrest

TIME: 12 for 12.30pm VENUE: The Brassey Hotel, Barton

The ‘Guard’ of humour “The Yeomen of the Guard”

By Gilbert and Sullivan.

Q Theatre, Queanbeyan, until October 31.

Reviewed by Bill Stephens “THE Yeomen of the Guard” is the darkest and most emotionally engaging of the Savoy Operas. Though the plot is convoluted, director Norma Roach has cleverly shaped the action of this beautifully costumed, well-sung production by The Queanbeyan Players to emphasise the libretto’s surprising amount humour.

In the central role of the unfortunate strolling jester Jack Point, Mathew Greenwood gives an assured performance. Vocally secure and dramatically believable, he maintains an impressive balance between humour and pathos. Janene Broere, as Dame Carruthers, and John Buckley, as the jailer, Wilfred Shadbolt, also impress with their strongly sung, intelligent and funny characterisations. Anna Wise (Elsie Maynard), Jessica Kinsella (a feisty Phoebe Meryll) and Greg Wallace (Col. Fairfax) all bring conviction and fine voices to their roles.

Although the large orchestra tended to overpower the singers early on, as the performance progressed, and the singers gained confidence, conductor Jennifer Groom managed to correct this, and by the second act had achieved an admirable balance between singers and orchestra, resulting in a thoroughly engaging presentation of one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s more challenging operettas.

arts&entertainment

Che still challenges “CHE” (Parts 1 and 2) (M) THE solidly-crafted biopic confected by director Steven Soderbergh and writer Peter Buchman about the asthmatic Argentinean medico driven by conscience to revolt against corruption and oppression in Latin America, runs for close to five hours.

Part 1 shows Che Guevara (Benicio del Toro) managing the guerrilla campaign leading to Marxist dictator Fidel Castro replacing corrupt Cuban dictator Batista. In Part 2, Che sends his resignation to Castro and goes to Bolivia to lead a dirty little guerrilla war against another oppressive regime.

Based on Che’s memoirs and diaries, the screenplay shows him as a courageous, skilled guerilla leader and political mentor. It shines little light on his personal life, concentrating instead on battlefields, politics, awesome responsibility for the revolution’s success and the intellectual, emotional and moral forces that drove him. His only apparent indulgence is tobacco. Was he ascetic or self-indulgent about food, wine and sex? The film virtually never puts him in a position where those were available.

Part 1 is structurally the more impressive, giving us time to meet and know people on both sides of the Cuban revolution. Soderbergh’s staging of its military passages is masterly, compelling us to observe each tactical moment closely and make our own inferences rather than explaining in detail. In Part 2, the masterly hand continues, but his construction of the 342 days from the start of the campaign until Che’s execution is fragmented, harder to comprehend.

You might wonder why Soderbergh made this massive work. Or you could take the easier path and go with its flow. Either way, “Che” is a challenging film.

At Dendy

“WHATEVER WORKS” (M) THE screenplay for this amusing ensemble piece sat in Woody Allen’s files for some 30 years before he dusted it off and produced it.

It’s vintage Woody. Widower Boris (Larry David), a retired quantum-physicist who almost got nominated for a Nobel Prize, rejects any notion of life, the universe and everything unless supported by rigorous enquiry and proof, particularly the existence of any deity.

Melodie (Evan Rachel Wood), fleeing domineering parents in Louisiana, enters his life by accident and slowly, sweetly becomes important to him.

They marry. A year later, her religiously constipated mother Marietta (Patricia Clarkson) arrives after leaving her adulterous husband John (Ed

“Rude, crude and

hilarious!”

Sun Herald

“A deliciously entertaining and naughty night out!”

Daily Telegraph

“Wickedly funny!”

SMH

Melodie (Evan Rachel Wood) and Boris (Larry David) in “Whatever Works”.

Begley Jr). Soon Marietta has shed her inhibitions, taken two friends of Boris into her bed and made a name for herself in the art world. John arrives contrite and confused about his sexuality.

The brittle, clever, quick dialogue is full of comic flashes. Wood is sweet but not naïve.

Clarkson is a marvellous actress projecting eroticism to make any woman half her age envious. Larry David makes a comic virtue of grumpiness. And behind the camera, Woody Allen deftly guides them through a story neatly reflecting and fulfilling its title.

At Dendy

“THE FINAL DESTINATION 4” (MA) Lucky to get half a star!

SHAKESPEARE wrote for Macbeth a one-line-fitsall review of bad plays – “’Tis a tale told by an idiot, full of sound and fury, signifying nothing.”

This is David R Ellis’s fourth regurgitation of an idea originally directed by master of violent action John Woo. The film’s sole merit is its imaginative killing modes, techno disasters and shamefully bad workplace practices. Its one important lesson teaches that sitting on a swimming pool drain or skimmer box while the pump is running leads to sucking out of guts through the anus. An ugly way to go, even for the thoroughly unlikeable young man to whom it happens.

At Hoyts Belconnen in 3D

The smash-hit Broadway musical

Some tickets available October Gala Opening performance Sat 24

00

18 shows only-book now 02 6275 27 avenueqthemusical.com.au

‘Brother’s’ neurotic undertones BILL Boyd’s Christian Brother of the ‘50s-‘60s was crafted compassionately under the direction of Geoffrey Borny. The play has an historical resonance. What seems funny in hindsight takes on neurotic undertones when the situation portrayed in the play is viewed as historically accurate. The attitudes, aspirations and actions of the Brother are strikingly familiar.

Boyd was most comfortable in realistically portraying the routine banter of the teacher in the classroom and so real in this, that one felt tempted to interact with the man and challenge him on some of his absurd statements and beliefs.

The production was less successful in constructing the more theatrically contrived scenes where the teacher’s frustrations boiled over into violence.

THEATRE

“The Christian Brothers”

By Ron Blair, Tuggeranong Arts Centre, until October 24.

Reviewed by Joe Wooward Boyd tended to underplay the inherent violence in the application of the physical punishment and the horrifying extent to which this also belittled the man. Without utilising this simmering aggression, the sudden fear that real damage had been done to the boy was never established.

Still, “The Christian Brothers” is a deserved classic of Australian theatre that has been given a very thoughtful and wonderfully engaging treatment in this production.

S N E P O RROW

TOMO

!

T H G NI CityNews October 22-28 19

Melbourne Cup holiday fun

Splendid ways to enjoy the public The Canberra public holiday that coincides with Melbourne Cup is a day full of wonderful choices: There’s the chance to glam up and go trackside to a big day of racing and fashion at Thoroughbred Park, or celebrate somewhere more casual like the Labor Club or, maybe, be part of the family day in Glebe Park.

When accessories are the key ACCESSORIES are the key to creating a show-stopping look at the races, says Gail Lubbock, of Escala Manuka.

“New shoes, a bag and a fabulous scarf or wrap can make an outfit you already have look brand new,” she says. “However, I believe it’s the hat that gives the final wow to any outfit – it’s the real finishing touch.”

Gail says that fabulous oranges, delicate pale blues and shimmering silvers are going to look amazing on the field this year.

“Glamorous shoes with a modest heel for style and comfort on race day and a bag with a pretty chain so you don’t have to hold on to it is a wonderful idea,” she says.

Fascinator, Boudoir Love

by Viktoria Novak, $297

“

Hark back to the 1920s with ruffles and bows

”

Cameo ring, $16.99, Sybil’s Closet by Danielle

Honey & Beau dress, $169, Sybil’s Closet

by Danielle

Miss Anne clutch, $45, Sybil’s Closet by Danielle

How to shine on race day BRIGHTEN up a race-day outfit with flower accessories to ensure you turn heads at the races, says Briony Young, sales and marketing manager at Thoroughbred Park.

“This year it’s all about revisiting the bold, beautiful ‘80s,” she told “CityNews”.

“Bright colours and striking prints – particularly florals – are in order.”

Bigger is better for hats this year, with the fascinator taking a back seat to wide, floppy brims and big decorations.

Flashing too much skin is frowned upon on the field, so if you do opt for strapless, consider a bolero jacket or a wrap to cover up. And go A-line for the latest look, says Briony.

As for the boys, the official buttonhole flower is the white freesia, and this year sees the arrival of the “maninator” – a mini fascinator for the lapel.

Buttonhole decoration just got bigger!

Shop 9 Andrew Arcade 42 Giles Street Kingston | telephone 02 6162 1185

www.sybilscloset.com.au 20 CityNews October 22-28

advertising feature

holiday

Multi-coloured Amada clutch, $245, La Cobbler

Pale blue Quentin hat, Cynthia Bryson, $400, Escala

“

Family fun in the park

Statement hats for that final ‘wow’

Max Alexander fascinator, $159, La Cobbler

”

Multi-coloured Amada shoes, $269, La Cobbler

Go for comfort and fit on race day COMFORT and great fit is just as important as fashion on race day, says Vanessa Stuart, of Rodney Clark.

“Beautiful jacquard fabrics, abstract floral designs and shift styles are great for the field,” she says. “Fifties’ style A-line skirts will look beautiful teamed with jewelled accessories – try pewter

necklaces and bracelets and delicately embellished bags and belts to add a flash of sparkle.”

Vanessa says that monochrome designs are hot for this year, in line with the traditional Derby Day look. “Throw a wrap over your shoulders for stunning races glamour.”

Alison cracked quartz crystal and baroque pearl necklace, $150, Escala

Boticelli clutch, $179, Byblos scarf, $199 and Shoes

by Rupert Sanderson Belle, $799, Escala

A “MAKE your own Fascinator” stall and Family Fashions on the Field will bring a bit of Flemington to Glebe Park on November 3.

Celebrating the family and community day public holiday, there will be music by local covers band Smooth Operators and free amusements including jumping castles, face painting, plaster painting and balloon modelling.

All the action of the Melbourne Cup will be broadcast on the big screen.

Families are urged to bring a picnic or choose from the variety of food and drink available, including Thai food, fairy floss, hot mini donuts, ice cream and the Lion’s Club barbecue for charity.

For more information on the event, presented by the ACT Government and sponsored by UnionsACT and Mix106.3, contact Canberra Connect on 13 22 81 or visit www. events.act.gov.au.

CityNews October 22-28 21

The great Melbourne Cup makeover

From too short to a classic look for Lara Too short, too low and teamed with a too-small fascinator, Lara’s outfit for last year’s Melbourne Cup was inappropriate for the field. The Lizzie Wagner Group stepped in to give Lara a beautiful, classic look for Melbourne Cup 2009…

Shorter layers and a side fringe were cut into Lara’s hair.

Make-up was kept neutral to enhance her features, with a touch of mauve definition on the eyes and a subtle coral lipstick.

Before

There’s way too much skin on display here! The colour is great but Lara’s fun, flirty little dress is all wrong for race day.

22 CityNews October 22-28

Stylist Kelsey helps Lara, who loves strapless designs, find the perfect dress. A classic jacket will pull the look together and cover up shoulders and décolleté, while a chic up-do and fascinator add the finishing touch.

Lara can now be seen out on the racecour se as a Fashion on the Field scout – keep an eye out for her looking as stunning as she does here!

“CityNews” reader Lara wanted to create the perfect race-day outfit, in line with the latest requirements for Fashion on the Field.

“This year we’re going for a classic look,” says stylist Kelsey Padjen.

To achieve this, Kelsey established what wasn’t working about Lara’s initial outfit.

“The fascinator is too small, the dress too skimpy, and it’s always a no-no to wear stockings with open-toed shoes,” she says.

“A closed court shoe works beautifully and is more practical in the grass.”

The next stage was hair and make-up.

“Lara’s hair colour was already gorgeous, so we didn’t need to do anything drastic,” says Kelsey. “We added layers and a side fringe. Make-up was kept neutral to allow Lara’s accessories to shine.”

The dress has to sit on the knee – no shorter! – with shoulders and décolleté covered up, says Kelsey.

“We loved this black halter-neck dress (right), but it wasn’t quite as polished as our final choice,” she says.

“For this reason we chose a beautiful floral dress teamed with a belted jacket and co-ordinating clutch. The fascinator beautifully balances the outfit.

“Lara looks stunning and ready to stand out – for all the right reasons.”

Style team: The Lizzie Wagner Group (6299 8328). Fashion: Kelsey Padjen.

Hair: Mel Temme of Modern Classic.

Make-up: Sue Foster. Clothes: Myer.

Fascinators: Viktoria Novak. Words: Kathryn Vukovljak. Photos: Silas.

After

Lara looks demure and elegant in monochrome – perfect for the races and ready for a flutter!

CityNews October 22-28 23

Melbourne Cup holiday fun It’s party time!

CANBERRA Labor Club is gearing up for Melbourne Cup time, with sweeps available for the main race at all four venues across Canberra – Belconnen, City, Weston Creek and Ginninderra.

Free bubbly will be provided with

every luncheon booking, and the Belconnen club will have extra TAB facilities available to ensure guests get a chance to place a bet. The Melbourne Cup race will be shown on the big screen, with the Calcutta taking place the night before.

YOUR ONE STOP PARTY & EVENT DECORATING DESTINATION!

Identity print frill dress, $270, Rodney Clarke

“

Style, comfort and stunning fit

”

advertising feature Elastic jewel belt, $60, Rodney Clarke

Embellished bag, $80, Rodney Clarke

Pewter ball bracelet, $25, Rodney Clarke

NOW OPEN! • Helium Balloons • Party Accessories 1-100 • Licensed Character Themes • Engagements • Birthdays • Wilton Cake Decoration Range • Weddings • Anniversaries • Christenings • Corporate • Sporting Events Cnr Gribble St & Gungahlin Place Gungahlin p:6262 2655 I f:6262 2625 I e:rebecca@thepartyhive.com.au

24 CityNews October 22-28

Ethnic bead necklace, $65, Rodney Clarke

Brighten up, go colourfully loud!

THE races will be alive with colour this year, says Shaen Flakelar, of La Cobbler. As summer approaches everything is brightening up and accessories are becoming more dramatic than ever.

“We’re seeing some great loud colours, which can set off a simplistic outfit beautifully,” says Shaen.

“A gorgeously decadent fascinator or hat in fuchsia and lime green will look stunning and feminine with strappy sandals – the higher the heel, the better!”

Themed ideas for race-day parties ANY Melbourne Cup function will go with a swing with The Party Hive’s range of race-day themed accessories. Great for decorating tables at formal functions or dressing up the back garden for a barbecue, there are helium-filled latex and foil balloons in the shape of horses, as well as horse-racing printed napkins, horseshoe-shaped glasses and horseshoe-shapedcake tins. The balloons can be inflated on site, or customers can do it themselves with helium available to hire. The Party Hive is located just outside Gungahlin Marketplace.

CityNews October 22-28  25

body

C O S M E T I C

C L I N I C S

Powerful wrinkle treatment that helps you

Look 10 years younger…

The Renaissance clinic is now injecting in Manuka.

Ring 1300 LoveIt (1300 568 348).

Dr Albert Ho and associates

By Kathryn Vukovljak WAXING is the most efficient method of DIY hair removal, says Ben Veenkamp, make-up artist at Priceline Canberra.

“Gentle wax strips are easy, convenient and provide a great result,” he says.

“But before you do any sort of hair removal, make sure to exfoliate and moisturise skin.

“Drink plenty of water in the days before waxing – it will help the hairs come out easily. It’s moisturising from within.”

As for the pain, there are ways to minimise that.

“Hold the skin taut, pull in the opposite direction and press down on your skin afterwards,” Ben says.

“Then use a gentle aloe vera-based gel to soothe and calm the area.”

Ben advises that shaving is kept for emergencies only.

“It’s fine if you have to be hair-free fast,” he says.

“But it’s drying for the skin and can lead to ingrown hairs.

“If you must shave, stick to lower legs only. The skin there is less likely to rub against clothing, which can cause aggravation.”

Make-up artist Ben Veenkamp with client Jodi Hood.

Mobiles for kids? No thanks MY seven-year-boy old wants his own mobile phone for Christmas. He loves to talk and he says all his friends are getting phones. At the moment, he’s got Buckley’s.

I think he’s much too young for a mobile phone. But talking with another mum the other day about children and mobiles did cause me to wonder when it was appropriate to give your offspring their first phone.

My thought was about 12 or even 14 years.

After all, that’s when they’re really starting to get out and about on their own and a phone would enable them to stay in touch with home base. However, a little research quickly revealed I’m very much behind the times.

According to media reports, half of British children aged five to nine have a mobile phone (yep, seriously). It’s probably only a matter of time before Australian phone companies have captured the Australian market to a similar degree.

The main selling point of these phones – allowing your child to call you in an emergency – doesn’t miss the mark with an over-protective and wee bit paranoid parent like me. But mobile phones require a degree of responsibility. I know parents who have had teens with horrendous mobile phone bills and who spend half the night texting, or text while in class or while driving. Then there is the problem of trying to keep tabs on who your

Mum in the city

By Sonya Fladun

child is in contact with and whether or not it is possible for someone to get hold of your child’s private number.

Of course, these issues also arise with computers and the internet. My seven-year-old is already a computer enthusiast and loves to find out things with Google. But I’m not at all sure when I’ll let him start social networking.

I’m also pretty unsure about the health issues. The jury still seems to out in relation to the health effects of mobiles, especially in regard to young children.

More broadly, the question of when your child should get a mobile or use the internet is another one of all those tricky issues that parents sooner or later have to deal with, like when does your child catch the bus to school on their own, or go down to the shops without you.

I’m thinking when my little extravert does get a mobile, I’ll get him one of those with a satellite tracking device. I’ll certainly be snooping on who he calls/texts and who is calling/texting him. But for me, “mobiles for pre-teens,’’ well this mum’s just not ready for that one yet.

MS1049-V3

1300 LoveIt | www.renaissanceclinics.com.au

The ways of waxing

Bentley’s of Canberra Jamison Plaza 6251 2681 and Garran Shops 6281 4339 | Beauty Bar Jamison Plaza 6253 4488

26 CityNews October 22-28

CityNews October 22-28  27

south coast summer

Magnetic appeal of the sunny south coast

THE south coast is one of Australia’s premier holiday regions and, every summer, draws thousands of Canberrans to its magnetic attractions such as its natural, unspoiled environment.

But to fully enjoy the coast’s peaceful and relaxing lifestyle, you need to be organised. If you’re thinking of a summer holiday, the advice from those who know is book now. If you’re thinking of buying a holiday house for summer, now’s the time to get looking.

28 CityNews October 22-28

Here’s a tempting look at some of the region’s top accommodation and attraction options:

Where dreams come true

A whale of a time

Reflections Barlings Beach, 15 minutes south of Batemans Bay, is proving a popular destination to build a dream home on some of the south coast’s last beachfront land.

Blocks at the new estate are selling quickly, with 15 lots of the 35 available sold to a mix of Canberra residents and local buyers.

“One of the major attractions of the estate was the opportunity for purchasers to build their dream home in a dream location,” said project director Chad Walker.

“As the last beachfront land in Eurobodalla Shire, and some of the last beachfront land on the NSW south coast, Reflections represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build your dream home on a pristine south coast beach.

All our residents will be no more than three minutes walk to the beach, and will enjoy a lifestyle most Australians only dream about.”

The Reflections Barlings Beach estate can be accessed via George Bass Drive, call Debbie on 1800 092 798 to arrange a private inspection time.

A THREE-DAY community event celebrating the annual migration of whales through the waters of Twofold Bay will be held from October 30 to November 1.

Kicking it all off is the official opening at Eden Killer Whale Museum on Friday, October 30, at lunchtime, followed by the Whale Festival Ball, that evening.

The following day there’s a street parade and at the Eden Wharf there will be a regional market and food stalls, cooking demonstrations, carnival rides, a Navy helicopter simulator and fireworks spectacular.

Information from 6496 1953 or visit www.edenwhalefestival.com.

advertising feature ‘A holiday you can afford’ “A HOLIDAY you can afford” is the catchphrase for a getaway at one of the Federation of Community, Sporting and Workers’ Clubs Holiday Centres located at Fingal Bay, Sussex Inlet and Urunga.

There are more than 80 modern, two-bedroom, brick units available to members and their families that accommodate up to six people.

The federation also has fully functional units that allow disabled people to take holidays in a family atmosphere.

The Fingal Bay Centre has 60 air-conditioned units and is located on the beach at Fingal Bay, while the Sussex Inlet Centre has 18 units in a bushland setting with an absolute waterfront, just 38 kilometres south of Nowra.

For more information call 4441 2367 or visit www. fcswcfamilyholidays.com.au.

Relaxing down on the farm VALLEY View farm is a rural rental property surrounded by the Currowan State forest with its rain forests, freshwater creeks and abundance of native animals – and only a 25- minute drive to Batemans Bay. Guests have access to the large property, with all modern conveniences and tastefully decorated in classic country style.

The farm is a few minutes drive to the recreational attractions of the Clyde River.

There are nearby villages to explore or do some shopping at the local markets.

During summer, relax under the verandah as the barbecue sizzles or cook up the catch from the nearby creeks or Clyde River.

More information from 4478 1089 or email currowan@hotmail.com.

Heritage in historic Kiama OVERLOOKING Kiama harbour, The Sebel Harbourside Kiama is a 4.5-star resort that reflects the modern and the historic aspects of Kiama.

The restored, heritagelisted, 1871 bluestone infants’ school building has been converted to a resort with contemporary waterfront accommodation, and features the Blue Diamond brassiere restaurant and bar.

Comprising 88 guestrooms over three levels, there are 70 king guestrooms; eight two-bedroom, self-contained apartments and three disability guestrooms.

Luxury, ahoy!

The resort is a short stroll from the famous Kiama blowhole, the Bombo headland and historic terrace shops. It is surrounded by examples of Victorian architecture.

For more information call 4230 7500 or visit www. mirvachotels.com/sebel-harbourside-kiama.

Big and friendly welcome LOOKING for somewhere offering a family friendly environment that features bars, restaurants and accommodation? Pop in and take a look at the Warilla Bowls & Recreation Club, 20 kilometres south of Wollongong.

From humble beginnings in 1964, the Warilla Bowls & Recreation Club has grown to one of the largest bowling clubs in Australia, boasting four outdoor greens and a world-class, eight-rink indoor green.

Joining the club is easy ($2 for one year or $6 for three) and it offers the most modern facilities, including restaurants, a gymnasium, bowls shop, bottle shop, travel agent and more. Recent renovations have been completed, so you can take advantage of the new TAB Sports Lounge and the expansive outdoor terrace areas.

For more information call 4295 9595 or visit www.warillabowls. com.au.

THE Crown and Anchor was built as a small hotel in the early 1840s as the first substantial building in Eden. As such, it commands spectacular sea views of Twofold Bay through to the ocean.

These days, it’s a bed-and-breakfast establishment. Situated in a central and quiet location, the hotel is within walking distance of restaurants, the wharf and the beach.

Each room has a view of the sea, ensuite bathroom, antique furnishing and some feature open fireplaces.

The building offers an experience steeped in early Australian character and the charm of long-gone whalers and seafaring days.

A buffet breakfast is offered with a variety of homemade and fresh market produce.

Enjoy breakfast on either on the sunny, east-facing veranda overlooking the ocean, or in the west glass room overlooking Twofold Bay. Phone (02) 6496 1017 or visit www.crownandanchoreden.com.au.

FOR THE PERFECT COASTAL FAMILY HOLIDAY

7 NIGHTS FROM $423.50

(maximum 6 persons) When you step back in time in this original 1845 Inn you can view stunning Twofold Bay from your private sitting area in the window room or from the vantage of the rear deck. Relax in the dining room while enjoying complimentary champagne and pre-dinner appetisers on arrival.

For a holiday you can afford why not stay at the Sussex Inlet Holiday Centre The Sussex Inlet Holiday Centre has eighteen modern, self contained air conditioned units and is located in a bushland setting with an absolute waterfront, located midway between Ulladulla and Nowra. You can drop a line at any of the well known spots, take a bush walk or visit the attractions in the Shoalhaven area.

The charm of the Crown & Anchor Inn is a unique experience that should not be missed when you visit Eden. The wonderfully quiet surrounds allow the everyday tensions to drift away.

Visit the Web Site www.fcswcfamilyholidays.com.au for full details of the Holiday Centre or phone (02) 4441 2367

JH0197

Member rates are available by mentioning this advert and quoting FWC3010 when booking.

239 Imlay Street Eden NSW 2551 | Phone: +61 (0)2 6496 1017 | Fax: +61 (0)2 6496 3878 Email: info@crownandanchoreden.com.au | www.crownandanchoreden.com.au CityNews October 22-28 29

your week in the stars With Joanne Madeline Moore October 26 - November 1 ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20) Rams are a risqué lot (just think of amorous Aries like Casanova, Warren Beatty and Jayne Mansfield). With the Sun and Mercury both heating up your sex/money zone, lust and loot are a volatile mix at the moment. If you can keep the bedroom and the boardroom separate, then you’ll have a better chance of succeeding at both.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20) Relationships will be complicated (and fiery) this week and must be handled with care. Charging in like a wounded Bull will only make matters worse. You need to be decisive and diplomatic at the same time (an interesting juggle!) Thursday is your best day, as love and work are linked in luscious ways.

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21) Love is in the air as Venus activates your romance zone. Single Twins – you’re in the mood for some fabulous flirting and sparks could fly with a lusty Libran or a sexy Sagittarian! This weekend’s fiery Aries Moon suits your style, as it encourages thinking and acting with lightning speed.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22) It’s time for busy, cranky Crabs to become lounge lizards! Venus is in your domestic zone (until November 8) which highlights simple pleasures like spending time with the family, relaxing in front of the TV and entertaining at home. Nothing too strenuous though!

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22) Lions are self-sufficient souls and can be too proud to ask for assistance. But have you got a problem that’s too hard to handle on your own? A little humility (and a lot of help from others) will see you zoom forwards. Mercury moves into your home zone on Wednesday, which encourages sharing ideas with family members.

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22) Look for more business opportunities and social connections online.

And don’t be shy about broadcasting your many ideas and talents to the world! Your quote for the week is from birthday boy Bill Gates (born October 28): “The internet is becoming the town square for the global village of tomorrow.”

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23) Librans can be a luxury-loving, lazy bunch as you enjoy the good times and go out of your way to avoid hard work. Not any more! Serious Saturn moves into your sign on Friday (for the first time in 29 years) so it’s time to accept extra responsibilities with grace and determination.

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21) Mercury (planet of the mind) moves into your sign on Wednesday, which encourages creative thinking – and stubbornness. If you are an adaptable Scorpio (sounds like an oxymoron!) you’ll get through the week with less angst. “The hallmark of creative people is their mental flexibility” (Roger von Oech).

general knowledge crossword ACROSS 4 Which mythical monster was said to have been slain by St George?

7 Name the term applied to an unmarried woman.

8 Which horse won the first two Melbourne cups?

9 Name the communication which, perhaps, preceded the email.

11 Which monkeys have a doglike muzzle, large cheek pouches and a short tail?

13 Name the reigning prince of Monaco since 1949.

15 To move about the basketball court while bouncing the ball is to what?

17 Name the Australian river which rises in Queensland and flows to the Murray.

20 What is a pilot of a balloon called?

23 Name the ancient heavy gun, usually mounted on a carriage.

24 What is an emotional disorder known as?

25 Name the class below the nobility.

DOWN 1 What is a semicircular recess in a church?

1

2

No. 234

2 What, in the US, is a resident hospital doctor, usually a recent uni' graduate?

3 To which heavenly body is the sun classed?

4 Name a composition written for performance by actors.

5 What is a device for holding boats in place?

6 Which body of salt water covers almost three quarters of the earth's surface?

9 Which zone lies between the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn?

10 To rewrite on a smaller scale is to what?

12 What is a more common name for a thoroughfare?

14 Which solid body revolves around the sun?

16 Name the small drums which are played by beating with the fingers.

18 What is another term for a proverb?

19 What do we call a nurse for children?

21 Name an alternative term for debauchee or rake.

22 In NSW a flat is known as a what?

Solution next week

3

4

5

6

7 8 9

10 11

12

13

14 17

18

15

16

19 20

21

22

23 24 25

Sudoku medium No.18

Solution next week

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21) Calling all stressed Sagittarians – don’t waste time being bossy and grumpy this week. Instead, tune into the love and affection that are all around you. Work pressures should ease (from Friday onwards) as Saturn moves out of your career zone. Use your energy and enthusiasm to inspire and motivate others.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19) Don’t be a carping critic Capricorn! You have so many marvellous ideas about how to change things but don’t become bogged down in the negatives. This week favors positive thinking as you appreciate the glass being half-full (rather than half empty). Helping others will benefit you in surprising ways.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18) Expect some dramas at work as emotions run high and egos are easily bruised. Don’t add fuel to the fire by being controversial. By the end of the week you may have changed your mind about a friend, lover, work colleague or important issue. That’s life – especially when you are an unpredictable Aquarian!

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20) Having a positive attitude is great but make sure you’re not adopting a ‘Pisces Pollyanna approach’ as you put your head in the sand and avoid real problems in your life. As Saturn moves into your shared finances zone, check you’re up-to-date with the details of all joint accounts and business partnerships.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2009.

30 CityNews October 22-28

Solution Crossword No.233 P R O T O N U H E U P H E L D E F K K E T T L E O L M L A M E T H Y U R O F F E N D F M E B I F O C A N R F

L J X E C U T F R A T O O M R A M A S E A D S T E T E N N E R A E X T R L S A S A L M

B O R M B A E R Y

I S M A S G O N

Solution Sudoku hard No.17

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32  CityNews October 22-28

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34  CityNews October 22-28

AU CT IO N

“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

GJ3370

Contact: Roger Bramley 0418 965042 Web: www.realestate.com.au ID 7263749

CityNews October 22-28 35