Canberra CityNews April 29-May 5, 2010

CityNews April 29-May 5 

  CityNews April 29-May 5

ACT Budget 2010

Gallagher holds her nerve Boom or bust? The ACT Budget looms on Tuesday and ELERI HARRIS gets a glimpse of what’s ahead from the Treasurer THE business community is set to have its 2010 Budget aspirations met, if Treasurer Katy Gallagher’s candid comments to the “CityNews” are anything to go by.

With one Budget already under her belt, Gallagher is more confident about this year’s delivery, but argues that 2010 has its own challenges.

“This has really been about holding your nerve, politically,” she says.

“At the time we were putting the Budget together last year, the ongoing impacts were unravelling and I think there was a lot of uncertainty about how the global economies were going to recover and when they were going to recover.

“Not having a global economic meltdown has helped. But this year we’ve had the Commonwealth Grants Commission report come out as well, which, has taken $85 million a year off us.

“My instinct is not to over-react, it’s our small Budget that makes us nervous, I think.

“It is going to take time to recover the Budget. But we can do it. Our balance sheet is strong, our level of debt is low, so our overall financial position is very strong, even if it means we have to

INDEX April 29-May 5, 2010

Since 1993: Volume 16, Number 17

Arts&Entertainment Crossword Dining Environment Horoscope Health&Fitness Letters Movie reviews News Politics Property Social Scene Sudoku

11-13 24 22 6 24 23 8 12 3-12 10 25-32 14 24

FRONT COVER: Young Canberra golfer Allan Haughie. Full story on Page 4.

Photo by Silas

withstand several years of deficits, we can do it. The alternative is to cut your work force and you cut your services and your Budget’s back in black, but do you do that at the expense of economic growth in the city?”

Opposition treasury spokesman Brendan Smyth does not agree, arguing that tough cuts are what were needed last year and what will be needed again now to bring the Budget back into balance.

“Despite record revenues, despite being told how strong our economy is, we are told by Katy Gallagher that there is no money. Where has it gone?” he says.

“Last year year the Opposition called on the Labor-Green coalition to take some hard decisions. The Government have in fact increased their spending in the last 12 months.”

Greens convener Meredith Hunter is expecting a neat Budget she hopes will deliver eco-friendly cost effective initiatives.

“With the GST reduction and on-going deficit... it will probably be a lean budget,” she says.

Gallagher’s emphasis on maintaining the status quo and investing in ini-

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Treasurer Katy Gallagher... “It is going to take time to recover the Budget. But we can do it.”

Photo by Silas tiatives that prop up the economy will be good news to Canberra’s business community, with Canberra Business Council CEO Chris Faulks pushing for more funding to be invested in events that profit the community, such as “Masterpieces from Paris”.

“Obviously with the cut for the GST revenue and the fallout from GFC, the ACT Government will have to be careful and so this has to be a responsible Budget,” she says.

The Property Council’s Catherine Carter says she would like to see strate-

gies for managing the deficit that don’t stray from Canberra’s city plan.

“We would like to see resources allocated for infrastructure provision and for policies that are in sync with sustainability, urban infill and greater density in appropriate locations such as Civic and the town centres,” she says.

ACT Chamber of Commerce CEO Chris Peters says the ACT can’t afford a slash-and-burn Budget.

“We’d like the ACT Government to phase in savings over four years towards Budget surplus,” he says.

Greens join bubbler push THE Greens have followed the “CityNews” in campaigning for more drinking fountains around Canberra and are calling additional funding in Tuesday’s ACT Budget.

“People need to be able to have easy access to water when they are in the city. We don’t have many drinking fountains in Canberra and some of the existing ones aren’t maintained well,” said Caroline Le Couteur, Greens spokesperson for Territory and Municipal Services.

Over the past year TAMS has installed five new fountains in Civic following enthusiastic support from Chief Minister Jon Stanhope for the initial “CityNews” campaign.

“Good quality water fountains also mean people purchase less bottled water, which means fewer plastic bottles going to landfill,” Ms Le Couteur said.

“We want good quality drinking fountains, which are vandal proof, hygienic, and which also permit bottles to be refilled.

This is important for people’s comfort and health. Drinking water rather than soft drinks can make it easier for people to maintain a healthy weight.”

Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au Political reporter: Eleri Harris, 0414 618493 eleri@citynews.com.au Lifestyle editor: Kathryn Vukovljak, 6262 9100 lifestyle@citynews.com.au Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764 helen@citynews.com.au 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 circulation@citynews.com.au

42,001 copies a week Six-month audit to September 30, 2009

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

CityNews April 29-May 5

news

Allan’s drive for the top COVER STORY

By Eleri Harris “ULITMATELY, I do want to make it [to] number one,” says 21-year-old Allan Haughie, unemployed wannabe-pro-golfer who can drive 300 metres, as far as Tiger Woods.

“My goals are to make it in the top 100, then the top 10, then finally number one in the world,” he says.

The former Lake Ginninderra College student from Gungahlin is the Royal Canberra Golf Club’s rising star tipped to hit the professional circuit by the year’s end, but with no job to pay the bills and a sponsorship hunt so far unsuccessful, is Haughie chasing rainbows?

Mentor Peter King doesn’t think so.

“A lot of young people think they’re good and rely on their talents alone, Allan doesn’t,” he says.

“He’s putting the hours of practice in and Allan is building on his natural talent.

“Hopefully, we’ll see a blossoming star in the next year.

“The biggest problem is he really needs a job, but all the work most people get is during the day when he needs to be here [Royal Canberra Golf Club] practising. It’s a catch-22, he’s honing skills, but he still needs money.”

In the three years since he finished school, Haughie has done “pretty much just golf, straight up” and when world

Aspiring golfer Allan Haughie... “If everything in your life’s perfect, your golf’s going to accelerate a lot more.”

Photo by Silas ranking points from recent tournaments are finalised he hopes to be ranked in the top 50 amateur golfers in Australia, a badge that could push him over the line professionally.

Over winter Haughie will spend most of his time in Sydney playing smaller tournaments for the Pennant Hills Golf Club in the lead up to Brisbane’s Keperra Bowl in

May. He divides his time between training in Canberra and playing tournaments in Sydney.

When pressed, Haughie explains that golf is inseparable to his life.

“You see, golf really just revolves around everything in life. If everything in your life’s perfect, your golf’s going to accelerate a lot more.”

a dose of dorin

CityNews April 29-May 5

CityNews April 29-May 5 

environment

Cooking a green pizza

By Tanya Davies THE autumn evening smelled of wood smoke and garlic as students fired up their new pizza oven in the ANU organic garden.

Student co-ordinators Danica Browne and Amy Vos lead helpers in a quick lesson in how much dough to use and how to roll it out. After a wash of garlic oil and handfuls of veggies, the pizzas were topped off with herbs from the garden and into the oven.

The project to build the oven was conceived by members of the organic garden, and brought into existence with the assistance of ANUgreen. It was built by local potter and kiln specialist Maryke Henderson and volunteers over a three-day workshop, and it makes fantastic pizza!

Conceived in 2006, the Sustainability Learning Community Organic Garden is the result of a partnership between ANUgreen, Bruce Hall and the Fenner School, and employs principles of crop rotation and permaculture as well as being passionate about organics and recycling. It now boasts a rotational system with brassicas, legumes, solanaceae, root crops and green manure – which requires growing and digging in grasses and peas instead of leaving fallow

The new pizza kiln (left) and students enjoying the first organic pizzas. Photos by Silas ground for a season – and a permaculture bed beneath deciduous trees. Gardens coordinator Jackson Carr says the garden uses recycled materials whenever possible.

“The oven is made from old Canberra red bricks, and the fire and arch bricks were re-used, too. It’s really efficient, too. It fires up for a few hours with an initial load of wood.”

A chook shed was also added to the garden recently.

Working bees are held three times a week at the garden and all suggestions for ideas and projects are encouraged.

“The chook shed and the pizza oven were both suggestions from members of the garden,” he says. We actively encourage people to come to us with ideas. We’ll help with the research and planning and do something

like organise a workshop.”

A geology student, Jackson’s also using the garden to research biochar.

Teifi Caron, ANUgreen student outreach officer, often attends working bees, and assists students in running the garden as their own.

“The students have ownership which is the idea... But the exciting thing for me is to see projects come to life. If you don’t actually do these things and see them in action you don’t believe they can happen.”

For details on working bees or to keep up with projects read the garden’s blog at www.slcgarden.blogspot.com Send your environment stories to Tanya at environment@live.com.au

When planning rules go awry RECENT amendments to the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act, which sought to prevent appeals being further reviewed by the tribunal’s appeals division (effectively preventing two bites of the same cherry for planning disputes), are a step in the right direction.

However, a recent major ACAT appeal has raised questions about how planning issues are resolved in the ACT, where everyone it seems has a view on what they believe is the right outcome for the city is.

Planning disputes eat up an enormous amount of the Territory’s valuable and limited resources with the ACT Planning and Land Authority having to devote considerable time and resources to defending its decisions.

CityNews April 29-May 5

Resolving planning issues before blocks of land are sold by the Land Development Property Agency is the best way to avoid ambiguBy Catherine Carter ity in the sales documents. In planning disputes, ambiguities can be interpreted In turn, this means longer waiting time one way by ACTPLA and another by for processing development applications ACAT. This can lead to a situation where already queued up for attention. It developments that gain approval, later also means less time and resources for being rescinded. the, arguably, more important job of Things should never get this far – and refining and developing policies for future they wouldn’t if issues such as heights of planning. developments, setbacks, maximum gross In other words, if ACTPLA has to devote floor areas allowable and car parking too many resources to planning disputes, ratios are clearly spelt out and identified it loses resources it could be spending on before the development application is making our city beautiful, environmenapproved. tally responsible, vibrant, economically viable and a fitting showcase for the Catherine Carter is the executive director nation it represents. of the Property Council of Australia (ACT)

CityNews April 29-May 5 

opinion

Loud and getting louder!

I NEVER used to be noise sensitive. Now things are different: Noise is annoying. Maybe my newly acquired sensitivity has arisen because it’s been school holidays. Having two walking, talking, boom boxes following me about and competing for my attention all day has stretched my noise tolerance to breaking point.

Last week, I was nearly blown out of my movie seat because the sound system was turned up that high. It was a kid’s movie about dragons and Vikings, so loud was to be expected. But both my children had their hands over their ears for much of the movie, and my head was ringing for hours afterwards.

Children’s programs seem too loud, adverts always seem louder, and people seem to yell a lot more (particularly in the cafes around town with the terrible acoustics that encourage people to shout above each other to be heard.)

I did a little research and yes, the world is getting apparently louder.

According to the experts, the last decade

Mum in the city

By Sonya Fladun

was the loudest on record. Despite government regulation and controls on obvious noise sources such as aircraft and construction activity, noise pollution can be a chronic problem in urban areas. Scientists have even found that birds are chirping louder than they used to just to be heard over the human din.

Of course, in Canberra we are lucky compared to, for example, central Sydney. But it’s still worth being aware that too much noise isn’t good for us and is particularly bad for children. Apart from damaging our calm, it can affect our health, long-term hearing and ability to concentrate.

We can’t do much about the background noise we encounter outside our homes. But I can turn the television down, take batteries out of noisy toys and try to teach the children the difference between outdoor and indoor voices.

letters

Blame belligerent parents TIM Gavel may be right in suggesting that we are too hard on clubs with good leadership structures, but he needn’t be at loss to explain why some young sports stars throw it all away (CN, April 22, “Some Won’t Be Helped”). While young sportsfolk may only listen to a portion of what parents offer, they can be very profoundly influenced by the confronting behaviour, words and values of the loud minority of belligerent sideline parents (not always their own) whose values can sometimes be far from aligned with those of the club’s leadership group.

And then there are the minority of misguided, occasionally underhand coaches who do a lot of nodding to leadership groups, but then provide alternative counsel to their charges in dressing rooms. Often these are so caught up in their own all-conquering agenda that they do not realise that they actually are a negative force or that most kids are and should be playing for enjoyment, fitness and community benefits as the odds of them becoming paid, serious superstars are significantly small.

The answer, Mr Gavel, is that unless the club officials, parents and frontline management team are unified in their positive approach and attitude, some (a small percentage we hope) of your impressionable young athletes may carry an incorrectly validated mean-spiritedness and over-inflated sense of omnipotence into their adult playing fields and lives. Despite the best of intentions.

CityNews April 29-May 5

Danger to our hertiage

DESPITE the protestations last week (CN, April 22) of Catherine Carter, from the Property Council, and Gary Rake, of the NCA, it is difficult not to be moved by Robert Macklin’s article of April 15 that Canberra is in danger of losing its arboreal heritage.

In recent years the Stanhope Government has increasingly approved smaller building blocks, approved larger houses and buildings to be erected on those blocks, and allowed the construction of dual occupancy accommodation on what were once single- dwelling blocks.

Now there is to be a serious look at opening up to property development the corridors between town centres. And what’s to say the property developers won’t then begin to cast their eyes over the nature corridors between suburbs and the ridges between the valleys? The lake foreshore was once thought to be sacrosanct, but the Kingston foreshore development put paid to that.

I acknowledge that an increasing population has to be housed, and that any ACT Government has to draw a significant part of its income from property, but where do the Stanhope Government and the proponents of development envisage trees are to be grown? Trees are the lungs of the earth. Surely we don’t want to create another smog-riddled city like Sydney or Melbourne?

George Huitker via email

Bill Bowron, Farrer

news

The cold facts of sleeping rough

By Kathryn Vukovljak

Autumn’s amber sky This stunning photo of a Canberra autumnal evening sunset was taken by Silas Brown, scrambling to get to a beer launch (it’s tough work, but someone has to do it) on the southside. The snapper – lured irresistibly by the colour amber – careered up the archbishop’s Commonwealth Avenue drive at Acton and caught the moment from His Grace’s front garden. He made the beer launch on time, too.

CEOs will bed down in the street on June 17 to raise funds for and awareness of the many people who sleep rough in Canberra every night.

Bob Wilson, CEO of St Vincent de Paul Society, says he’s not particularly looking forward to sleeping out in the cold.

“I’ll be using some thick socks, a beanie and gloves and a bit of thermal clothing to make it through,” he says.

“At least at the end of the night I can come home, have a hot shower and go to work.

“People who do this every night out of necessity don’t have anything to look forward to.”

The CEO Sleepout started in Sydney three years ago but this is the first time the fundraising event has gone national.

“As it’s 2010, I’m hoping that each person can raise $2010 each,” says Bob. Andrew Fagan, the CEO of the Brumbies, WIN TV’s newsreader Jessica Good, and Pawl Cubbin, CEO of The Zoo Group are ambassadors for the event and will sleep out along with a growing number of senior community leaders including Zed Seselja, Canberra Liberal Leader of the Opposition.

Bob says it’s not set to be the most

comfortable of nights for the “sleepouts”, with St Vinnies “dishing out three sheets of cardboard each”.

“People can supply their own sleeping bag and pillow, and they’ll get a cup of soup and a bread roll, as well as a cup of tea or coffee. But that’s it,” he says.

Lesley Affleck, a team leader who volunteers at the St Vinnies Night Patrol van, a mobile outreach service which provides warm drinks, food, clothing and friendly conversation, says the problem of homelessness in Canberra is endemic.

“Before I started doing this, I was a a typical public servant and had no idea how many people slept rough here,” she says. “It’s an underlying problem that’s overlooked by both the local and Federal governments. No one cares.”

The ACT and surrounding region has people sleeping outside every night without a roof over their head – including women, young people and families with children, according to Bob. “There are 120 people in Canberra that we know of,” he says. “This is a serious issue that should have no place in a society like ours.”

More information or donations to www.ceosleepout.org.au

CityNews April 29-May 5

politics

For politics or people?

NEGOTIATIONS over health reform illustrate the nature of Australian politics.

On the one hand, there is widespread agreement that our health system is in need of review. On the other, there is an election pending and a major reform achievement both suits the incumbents and concerns the Opposition.

It is notable that the only jurisdiction resisting the reforms is WA while Victorian Premier John Brumby held out for as long as he could so that the voters he faces in mid-November understand that he puts his State first.

There is little doubt that Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Health Minister Nicola Roxon have identified a problem and are working hard to deliver on an election commitment to rectify the situation.

Certainly, the voters know there is a problem with health and they want it sorted. Rudd recognised that it was only a very few of the populace who actually understood, or even cared, where the responsibility actually fell.

The conflict rests in the relationship between the primary healthcare sector – which includes GPs – and the hospital sector. The obvious solution is to have a single funding body with responsibility for both areas so that the health workforce can be deployed in the most efficient way.

This is what Rudd originally suggested, but was never put on the table. Had he proposed a 100 per cent takeover the

10 CityNews April 29-May 5

By Michael Moore matter would have been politically and administratively much more straightforward. Instead, the 60-40 share simply means that States and Territories will still wear the blame when things are not going right and any State or Territory opposition will seize on this for advantage.

Federal Opposition Leader Tony Abbott declares that he is not simply a spoiler and will not oppose the necessary legislation for the sake of opposition. Of course not! He will oppose it on political grounds and, rather than look at a cost- benefit process for the decision, the Opposition will simply highlight the cost side of the equation.

It does raise the question about how much pressure was put on WA Premier Colin Barnett by the Federal Liberal Party for political motivation and how much of his decision was based on the best interests of the people of his State.

The converse is true for Chief Minister Jon Stanhope as the leader of one of the first jurisdictions to support the Prime Minister’s proposal – how much was the decision about making sure that the Federal government had a leg up for a political victory and how much was it about the best interests of the people of the ACT and the surrounding region?

Jon Stanhope... leader of one of the first jurisdictions to support the Prime Minister’s proposal.

As with the health agreements that were the predecessors of these negotiations, the resolution to the conflict is a balance between political advantage and the issue at hand.

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

It’s park and be damned!

MARK PARTON finds that getting a car park in the parliamentary triangle is like seeking asylum in a foreign country.

THE wave of people looking for a car park in the parliamentary triangle seems to be increasing at the same level as those boats coming from Indonesia and beyond.

Unfortunately, while looking for a park in the triangle, you can’t be intercepted by the Australian Coast Guard and taken to Christmas Island.

I spoke at a function at the Lobby restaurant at Parkes last week. It was supposed to start at 10am. It didn’t. Why? Because most people who were expected to be there were still circling Parkes and Barton trying to find a car park. As the invitees trickled in they were all shaking their heads and cursing the lack of parking.

Greens MLA Amanda Bresnan was so late that she feared she’d missed it. She didn’t. A number of journalists openly admitted that they’d parked up on the curb.

I parked at Old Parliament House because I know that they barricade a number of car parks off till after the morning, triangle, public service parking rush. Once they’d freed them up at 9.30am, I squeezed on in there.

I still say that one of the ways to address the problem is to introduce paid parking in the triangle.

Liberal Senator Gary Humphries

has campaigned loudly against it saying, among other things, that it would effect tourism. He’s suggesting that interstate tourists would be appalled at having to pay for parking at our national attractions.

He’s wrong. I’d love to know how many tourists had intended to visit Old Parliament House or the National Gallery, but who had driven away in frustration because they couldn’t physically find a park. Given the choice of not being able to find a park or paying a small fee for a park, I’m sure they’d choose the latter.

I was unhappy when they introduced paid parking at Westfield Belconnen, which is where I often shop, but it only took a couple of days to see why it was a good thing for casual visitors. It meant that there were always parks available close to Woolies. Sure, you might have had to pay for them, but they were always there.

I understand that there will be some pain for those who work in the triangle, but if it’s good enough for Civic and Woden and Belconnen, I think it should be good enough for the triangle.

Mark Parton is the breakfast announcer for 2CC.

all about living

arts | cinema | dining | health&fitness | puzzles | horoscope

Gala promises the real deal By arts editor Helen Musa IF there’s one thing Canberra audiences will warm to, it’s a slap-up night at the opera, as past ventures such as “Opera by the Lake” and “Opera by Candlelight” have shown.

That’s exactly what Rotary Club of Canberra Sunrise has in mind for May 8, when prima donna Joanna Cole, tenor Roy Best and baritone Phillip Calcagno will stir up a storm at Llewellyn Hall with the 2010 Italian Opera Gala.

Proceeds from this co-operative venture between the Embassy of Italy, Melbourne Opera and the ANU School of Music will support Rotary’s youth opera scholarships and, assuming that fundraising goes well, eventually a postgraduate scholarship for the study of classical operatic singing in Italy.

A former motor mechanic and carpenter, Best leapt to centrestage in 2006 with the ABC reality series “Operatunity Oz”, where amateur singers competed for the chance to perform with professional opera singers at the Sydney Opera House.

He has since become one of the most in-demand professionals in Australia.

Calcagno studied voice in Mel-

Joanna Cole... as Violetta Valery in Opera Australia’s “La Traviata”.

Photo by Branco Gaica. bourne and then Italy, with Carlo Ventura and Cesare Rufini and has since performed several roles for Melbourne Opera.

Cole, a brilliant interpreter of Verdi, has sung with Opera Australia, the London Philharmonic Orchestra, and the English National Opera and more recently with Victorian Opera. Winner of the Remy Martin, the Marianne Mathy and Joan Sutherland opera awards, she also represented Australia

Tenor Roy Best... in demand.

de Martino di Montegiordano, newly patron of the Gala, has invited the communities of Canberra and the surrounding regions “to celebrate the best in Italian culture,” saying that the embassy is looking forward to “facilitating a musically enriching experience for talented young Australian musicians.”

Rotary president Jonathan Lyall told “CityNews” that the Italian Opera Gala had its genesis some three years ago with a brainwave from a local Rotary Club member who also sings in the Canberra Opera Chorus, that they should stage an operatic concert as a fundraiser for the community activities which Rotary supports. In 2009, it succeeded beyond their wildest dreams, with more than 700 people in Llewellyn Hall for the event.

They again have good cause for optimism.

in the Metropolitan Opera Auditions in New York.

Make no mistake; this performance is for genuine vocal music lovers.

These operatic stars, backed up by the Melbourne Opera Orchestra under the baton of Greg Hocking, the Canberra Opera Chorus and leading ANU School The 2010 Italian Opera Gala, May 8, of Music students trained by ANU’s Llewellyn Hall. Bookings on 132 849 or head of Voice Alan Hicks, will sing www.ticketek.com.au arias from “Turandot,” “La Traviata,” “Il Trovatore,” “Cavalleria Rusticana” and Win five double passes, go to the whole of Act 2 from “La Boheme.” www.citynews.com.au/competitions Italian Ambassador Gian Ludovico

ARTS IN THE CITY

By Helen Musa

The week to get dancing

IT’S Australian Dance Week until May 9.

Readers already know about the Sydney Dance Company’s shows, but there will also be “Dance on the Edge” at Belconnen Arts Centre from 3.30pm on May 2. “Flash mobs” are predicted to dance in Civic on May 7 and 8 and dance displays featuring Liz Lea will run at Belconnen Fresh Food Markets from 11am to 3pm on the same day. Ausdance ACT’s free “Come and Try” Classes are on May 9 from 12.30pm at Gorman House. Visit www.ausdance.org.au/act CONGRATULATIONS to Jackie Hallahan. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Canberra Dance Development Centre, which she founded and has run ever-so-quietly. Company members will be launching the festivities on May 4, then we’ll tell you more.

THE Small Poppies are a Canberra-born comedy group comprising Adam Brodie-McKenzie, Caitlin Croucher and Andrew Nichols. They’ve just amazed audiences in the Adelaide Fringe and will be at the Street Theatre with “The Small Poppies Don’t Care (the end of the world is nigh)”, which considers the last 30 days of life on earth. May 6-15. Bookings 6247 1223.

Contiuned Page 12

CityNews April 29-May 5 11

arts&entertainment

When Beth’s Roman holiday goes wrong “When in Rome” (PG) THE Latin adage for the title of Mark Johnson’s rom-com is “insanire cum insanibus”, literally “to be barmy with the wackos”.

That much writers David Weissman and David Diamond got correct. The rest is improbabilities beginning when Beth (Kristen Bell), in Rome for her sister’s wedding, suspects that hunky best man Nick (Josh Duhamel) is more interested in a dark-eyed local girl than in her.

Wading in the fountain opposite the church, somewhat drunken Beth energises an ancient curse by removing some coins. Returning to New York where she curates exhibitions at the Guggenheim

CINEMA

By Dougal Macdonald

who follows another trade, all of whom, having thrown coins into the fountain, have become smitten by her physical presence.

In 1954, despite an Oscar-winning song, a romantic melodrama about three spinsters who each threw a coin into Rome’s Fountain of Trevi hoping for happily ever after, did poorly at the box-office. Although not a remake, “When in Rome” portends a similar fate.

Gallery, strange men assail her with protestations of adoration. Her preferred paramour is obvious. But Johnson, Weissman and Diamond, while they might have wound the story up in maybe half the time, compel us to endure contrived behaviour.

The film’s best (albeit tendentious) comic passages “Hot Tub Time Machine” (MA) depend on not Beth but her pursuers – a fashion model with an inflated ego; an aspiring artist; a TIME travel backwards is an easy cop-out for asconjurer with many cunning stunts; one small man sembly-line film-makers seeking a theme. But even (Danny de Vito) big in the sausage trade and one films based on “The Sound of Thunder”, Malcolm

Bradbury’s classic exposition of the genre’s pitfalls, have not worked well creatively or at the box-office.

Here three men of middleish age and the adult nephew of one of them attempt to re-invigorate youthful memories by visiting a ski resort they enjoyed in their 20s. A Russian soft-drink containing chernobilium splashes on the electrical connections to the hot tub, and bingo, they are back in 1986, among the old crowd and the events, good and ill, of yesteryear.

What a genuine star like John Cusack (who also co-produced) is doing in this mish-mash as Adam, mourning a broken relationship, I leave you to imagine.

Both films at all Canberra cinemas

From page 11 THE senior actors ensemble at Canberra Youth Theatre will be presenting a staged reading for “The Seed”, its initiative aimed at exposing new playwriting. They’ll present Queensland playwright David Burton’s “Ending Gorgeous”. C Block Theatre, Gorman House,

12 CityNews April 29-May 5

May 4 at 7.30pm and first Tuesday of each month.

FLUTE and guitar students from the ANU School of Music will perform an exotic concert of music at the Wesley Music Centre from 12.40pm to 1.20pm on May 5.

No bookings required.

arts&entertainment

Last of ‘extensive’ Eric

By Helen Musa FOLKIE extraordinaire Eric Bogle declares he is “about to embark on his last extensive tour of Australia”. It’s a good thing he qualifies this with the word “extensive”, as we could all be thinking about the endless farewell shows of Nellie Melba.

Well, surely Bogle deserves a break. He’s produced 14 albums, done eight tours of North America, 10 of Europe and countless Australian shows including Port Fairy, Woodford, Tamworth, Gympie Muster, and now he’s planning on a sort-of retirement – that’s why he’s calling this the “Small POT” (Pension Optimisation Tour).

Bogle has an enormous following in Canberra, where he will perform on May 1. His mixture of dry wit and common sense combine with his brilliance in songwriting to make this predictably a evening of true-blue entertainment.

You can’t say he hasn’t been honoured in his own lifetime. Bogle was awarded an Order of Australia medal for his services to the entertainment industry and a UN Peace Medal for his efforts to promote peace and racial harmony.

His songs have been recorded by Joan Baez, Donovan, Slim Dusty, John Williamson and Peter Paul & Mary. The Fureys’ recording of “No Man’s Land” spent 26 weeks on the Irish music charts, including 10 weeks at No. 1.

Bogle was not born here, but in Peebles, Scotland. An early school-leaver, he worked as a labourer, waiter, export clerk, bar steward and mill worker until he found a kind of musical calling as leader singer in a rock band, The Informers, whose music scene he was quickly to dismiss as “frivolous and full of bloody wankers!”

He quickly turned to folk music, also attending protest marches and political rallies. Bogle eventually emigrated to Australia in 1969, where

Eric Bogle... planning on a sort-of retirement – that’s why he’s calling this the “Small POT” (Pension Optimisation Tour). he worked for a scaffolding hire company, rising up the ladder quickly. He stayed in the business until in 1980, when he had a vision that went, “is this all there is?” and fled back to his musical calling, setting in motion his now-famous career as what he calls “a compulsive, almost obsessive songwriter”.

And, yes, there is a Canberra element in Bogle’s peripatetic life story. It was here, in 1971, that he met Carmel Verona Sutton. In 1972 they were married and they still are.

Eric Bogle will perform at the Canberra Southern Cross Club on May 1. Bookings to 6283 7200.

CityNews April 29-May 5 13

scene

invite us at silas@citynews.com.au

At Canberra Business Council lunch, Hyatt Hotel

Clare Belfrage and Ann Jakle

At the Peroni launch, Ostani at Hotel Realm, Barton

Ann McMahon and Georgina Carberry Bianca Petrevsli, Andy Castle, Craig Parker and Gabriella Lott Peruzzetto

Vesner Strika and Colleen Mays

Prof Ingrid Moses and Monica Penders

14  CityNews April 29-May 5

Martina Males, Ivan Domazet and Nicole Parker

Margaret Beerworth, Keith Cantlie and Philippa Murphy

MLA Caroline Le Couteur, Leon Arundell and Greg Mews

Andrew Fleming, Carly Hayes and Diana Rosa

Mother’s Day

advertising feature

Mum’s the word when it comes to treats Treating your mum on Mother’s Day is easy with the “CityNews” guide to the best places in Canberra to find pampering beauty treatments, delicious lunches and brunches, books to curl up with and to-die-for bags, scarves and gorgeous accessories to refresh mum, let her know you care and take her stylishly into winter. Go on, give her the very best on May 9...

Timeless classics

THE perfect gift for mother is a “classic” that will last a lifetime and always look fantastic, according to Lenora Aspen, showroom manager at Designcraft.

“We have some wonderful classics, such as the Platinum Series Model One AM/FM table radio by Tivoli Audio, which features a handlacquered and polished, high-gloss finish,” she says. “It transforms the table radio from sassy to sophisticated without diminishing its straightforward, timeless appeal.”

Robert Foster’s Fink water jug is considered an Australian classic icon that provides function, design appreciation and looks great on any dining table, says Lenora.

“Or perhaps choose a design that has been around for over 50 years and is still standing the test of time; like the Walter Knoll Classic 369 chair… elegant, comfortable, quality with a timeless design.”

Designcraft, 8 Tralee Street, Hume. Call 6290 4900.

Bags and scarves BAGS and scarves to take mum into winter with make a lovely gift on Mother’s Day, according to Gail Lubbock, of Escala.

“They’re such nice things to give, something she’ll really treasure,” she says. “We have gorgeous bags by Spanish designers Lupo and Puntotres, which are made from the softest leather, with beautiful hardware and attention to detail.”

Gail says Escala also offers lovely soft scarves in all new-season colours.

“We have greys, berry shades, purples and blues,” she says “The scarves are so comfortable, they mould to the body beautifully.”

Bags this season are big, and Gail says she has a wonderful range of totes, double-handled shoulder bags and large shoppers.

“Choose from smart burgandy, forest green, sandy taupe, chocolate and the ubiquitous black,” she says. “We also do a gift voucher if you just can’t decide and want to leave the choice up to mum!”

Shop 1, The Lawns, 21 Bougainville Street, Manuka. Call 6232 7666

Designer treats FROM flowery Anna Chandler mugs to striking jewellery and stunning homewares, Bliss Garden and Giftware has a collection of quirky, unusual designer Mother’s Day gifts, according to Iain Eaton, owner of the gorgeous shop in Pialligo.

“We stock a range of Polli jewellery, which is laser-cut stainless steel in really pretty designs, and also many pieces by Shonah, a Melbourne-based designer who creates hand-made pendants in a modern antique style,” says Iain. “Fashionconscious mums would like the b.sirius handbags in owl and birdcage prints.”

If mum is into interiors, Iain suggests the Ruby Star Traders range of velvet cushions.

“They’re just beautiful, with vintage fabrics and designs of birds, branches and flowers,” he says.

“And for the garden-loving mum, you can’t go past the terracotta bird feeders, Australian-made wind chimes or a truly stunning garden pot – why not plant your own gift for mum to really show her how much you appreciate everything she does for you?” he suggests.

Bliss Garden and Giftware, 8 Beltana Road, Pialligo. Call 6257 8358

CityNews April 29-May 5 15

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Mother’s Day

advertising feature

Brunch in peace TAKE your mum out to brunch at the newly refurbished Fellows Cafe, a stylish, chic venue within University House which opens on to a quiet leafy courtyard, according to Walter Sauer, general manager of University House.

“It’s a lovely location, and ideal for kids, too, as it’s away from cars and roads,” he says.

“Dining outside is also possible, weather permitting.”

Last year the Mother’s Day Brunch sold out quickly, says Walter, so as bookings are essential, call soon to ensure your place!

On the menu for Mother’s Day will be fresh fruit, yoghurt, Danish pastries, croissants, sweet and savoury scones, bacon and egg pie, fritata, sliced meat and salami, as well as seafood and vegetable crepes, eggs Benedict, eggs Florentine, pancakes, crab and corn cakes with salsa and a glass of sparkling wine for every mum.

Fellows Cafe, corner of Liversidge Street and Balmain Crescent, Acton. Call 6125 5289

Traditional and sumptuous A SUMPTUOUS, traditional meal and a glass of bubbly will make any mum happy, so why not celebrate this year’s Mother’s Day at the Canberra Labor Club, suggests Katrina Tucker from the club.

“Each club features its own Mother’s Day-themed meal specials,” she says. “Belconnen will have a delicious hot carvery buffet luncheon from noon until 2.30pm, including roast turkey breast filled with macadamia nut and bacon stuffing, a roast lemon and oregano lamb, a crispy pork leg with spicy apples and prime roast beef served with a red wine sauce.”

Dessert includes a hot Tas-

manian apple and blueberry crumble pie with Bundaberg rum custard on the menu, as well as an ice cream mountain, chocolate mousse and a mixed-berry pavlova.

The other clubs, Ginninderra, Civic and Weston Creek, will have a special Mother’s Day lunch menus that includes salt-and-pepper calamari, grilled Atlantic salmon and divine chocolate mud cake as some of the delicious options on offer.

Bookings are essential, says Katrina.

Bookings to: Belconnen 6251 9494, Civic 6230 0404, Weston Creek 6288 5047 and Ginninderra 6258 8618.

CityNews April 29-May 5 17

Mother’s Day

Look and feel great

have been conducted in this area and we now have non-invasive procedures with excellent THE key to looking and feeling good is to long-term results. balance physical and emotional health, says Lina “Whether you’d like to look younger, have a Prego, of Avida Wellness Clinic. fresher, clearer complexion, remove cellulite, “This means eating a balanced healthy diet, lose fat, tone up stubborn areas, lift sagging exercising and keeping emotionally positive,” skin or remove unwanted hair permanently, the she says. problem can now be treated without undergo“Facial and body imperfections can distract ing surgery or using injectables. you from your emotional well being and “All our makeovers are non-invasive and you appearance, no matter how healthy and young can look and feel great painlessly.” you feel.”

Avida also offers gift vouchers, ideal for Many people these days prefer natural Mother’s Day. procedures to enhance their appearance, Lina Avida Wellness Clinic, Bailey’s Corner, Civic. says: “In recent years, a lot of research and trials Call 6249 1848 or visit www.avidaclinic.com.au

18 CityNews April 29-May 5

advertising feature Books and more THERE’S nothing like curling up with a good book, and many of the new releases coming out in time for Mother’s Day will make a great gift for mum, says Richard Baz, owner of the National Portrait Gallery Store.

“In terms of novels, we have ‘Mr Rosenblum’s List’, by Natasha Solomons, which is about a German man desperate to fit in as an English gentleman, who writes a comprehensive guide to the manners, customs and habits of the English,” he says.

“We also have ‘Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie’, by Alan Bradley, set in June 1950 in a sleepy English village that’s about to be awakened by the discovery of a dead body in a cucumber patch.”

Keen gardeners will appreciate “The Gardener’s Book of Days”, by Holly Kerr Forsyth, says Richard, which brings together gardening tips, historical gardeners and plant information, organised into daily readings for the whole year, says Richard.

Quirky, fun kitchenware is always a winner, too, he says, and the mortar and pestle orb, at $54.95, is a useful piece that’s also a work of art. Designed by Joseph Joseph, the stylish, heavy-weight, three-piece set is suitable for grinding herbs and spices.

National Portrait Gallery Store, Parkes. Call 6102 7170.

CityNews April 29-May 5 19

Mother’s Day

advertising feature

Quality that lasts MUM will love a large, practical bag, according to Marie Peatey, owner of Furla, and the choice is huge at the moment.

“We have shopping totes, casual day bags, satchels and evening bags in a range of styles and textures, from suede, printed and croc and calfskin leathers,” she says.

“You’ll be spoilt for choice.”

The colours range from cheerful cherry red, rich chocolate, stylish grey and wintery white, says Marie.

“Many styles will be ideal for mums with young children, as the bags are stylish yet roomy enough to fit all your children’s essentials – and your husband’s!

“You can’t go wrong with a versatile bag that will take you from day to night.”

Furla also stocks gorgeous watches,

keyrings, wallets, scarves and gloves.

“These days we are buying less, but buying better – Furla is a wonderful place to get quality items that will last,” says Marie.

Furla, Bougainville Street, Manuka. Call 6232 6004

Spoil and pamper in true luxury THE “Mother and Daughter” package is a wonderful treat for you and your mum, according to Katie Hyde, manager of mudd the spa at the Hotel Realm.

“You’ll both get champagne and canapés, a full-body massage, a relaxing facial and a foot replenish,” she says.

With other decadent treatments including a free mineral make-up makeover with every facial, mum will soon be glowing with happiness, Katie says.

Architecturally designed and integrating universal luxury, mudd the spa is a complete five-star spa and wellness

destination located within Hotel Realm. The spa offers five relaxation suites, including a couples’ room to cater for all spa and body therapies.

If you have an expectant mum to spoil, pamper her from head-to-toe with the mum-tobe package, suggests Katie.

“The mum-to-be will begin her journey with a relaxing pregnancy massage followed by our luxurious spa pedicure,” she says. “The package includes canapés and fresh orange juice.” mudd the spa, Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton. Call 6162 0909

Win a taste of two regions WIN one of six double passes, worth $50 each, to the day-long “Tastes of Two Regions”, showcasing the wines and produce from Rutherglen and the King Valley at Rydges Lakeside Hotel on Sunday, May 16.

Enter at www.citynews.com.au

20 CityNews April 29-May 5

CityNews April 29-May 5  21

arts&entertainment

Taste of sweet success DINING

By Wendy Johnson I TAKE my hat off to Jeff Piper and Justin Kavanagh, who dared to close awardwinning, fine-dining Anise last Christmas, because they believed the time had come.

Jeff and Justin had a thirst to try something different. So, they focused on their love of Thailand and opened a casual eatery celebrating the flavours of the country’s unique cuisine, including chilli, basil, coriander and lime.

Thirst Winebar and Eatery, on West Row, Melbourne Building, in Civic, is not a tapas bar, as I had heard around the traps. But it does focus on sharing delicious quality, modern Thai food all made from scratch on site, right down to the curry pastes.

This attention to detail is what makes the dishes shine.

True to form, Jeff and Justin present a carefully selected wine list of around 50 offerings (lots of local choices), with many younger, aromatic whites and lighter, fruitier reds that marry as well with Thai food as does icy-cold beer.

We shared four delightful corn fritters – quality through and through. Next was a regional dish, the Chiang Mai sausage, made with love in-house. Rice is a component of the Chiang Mai mixture and so the texture is wonderfully fibrous.

We also fell in love with the chicken salad, fresh and beautifully plated.

The menu includes old-time favourites,

Taste... Thirst’s innovative approach allows you to design dishes to your own taste by selecting from four condiments.

Photos by Silas such as pad Thai, spring rolls and fish cakes, but it’s also innovative, including the rich green curry with trout dumplings, one of Thirst’s signature dishes.

Thirst’s innovative approach allows you to design dishes to your own taste by selecting from four condiments – chilli in fish sauce (savoury and salty), chopped chilles in rice vinegar (sour and mild), white sugar (for those with a sweet tooth) and red chilli powder (hot).

We weren’t fussed with two elements

of our visit. The style of music doesn’t fit somehow and it was uncomfortably loud and intrusive. And I am never fond of being served cutlery wrapped tightly in a paper serviette, always wondering why the customer should have to fuss with pulling it all apart. Would this stop me from having a thirst for more from this new eatery? No way.

Thirst, 20 West Row, Melbourne Building, Civic, call 6257 0700.

Michelle gets to the heart of a song

WIN

a night at the opera

WIN one of five double tickets, worth $138 each, to the Italian Opera Gala, Llewellyn Hall, May 8.

Enter at www.citynews.com.au

22 CityNews April 29-May 5

AFTER featuring artists of the calibre of Janet Seidel and Barbara Morrison, the jazz concert series, “It’s All in the Song”, concluded with the remarkably talented Michelle Nicolle performing in the intimate, upstairs cabaret space.

Michelle lived up to her reputation as having an uncanny ability to get right to the heart of a song as she demonstrated her three-octave range, perfect diction, near-impossible- to-notice breathing and impeccable phrasing.

From a mystic “Autumn Serenade”, dark and brooding “You Made Me Love

JAZZ

Michelle Nicolle Canberra Southern Cross Club, April 22.

Reviewed by Ian McLean You” to a casual, relaxed “There Will Never Be Another You”, this was modern, progressive jazz at its finest.

The band were integral to the success with drummer Ronnie Ferella subtle, tasteful and inventive, guitarist Geoff Hughes perfectly in partnership with Michelle and bassist Tom Lee, an unob-

trusive, but rock solid, support. Rhythms were tossed about with abandon in “This Song is for You” and the cross rhythms in “You Made Me Love You” felt unusual but somehow natural and controlled.

My only disappointment was that the show had been billed as the “Best of Mancini and Rodgers and Hart”. Sadly it seems Nicolle’s agent or manager neglected to pass on that vital piece of information to her. I hope any disappointed fans felt compensated by the outstanding quality of the overall performance that they did see.

health&fitness

Eat everything, but watch portions

WHILE low-carb diets have been touted as the best thing since sliced (low-carb) bread, that is not exactly true, according to dietitian Amanda Clark.

“While low-carb diets do result in greater fat burning, these diets are notoriously impractical for long-term dietary change,” says Amanda, who is the author of a new book, “Portion Perfection; a visual weight control plan”.

“Who wants to sign up to never eat pasta again, and any diet that restricts fruit can’t be good in the longer term.”

While there is no miraculous weight-loss solution, if you keep your portions under control you Dietitian Amanda Clark... “cut down your portions, will lose weight, she says.

“Because basically, it’s simple – you eat too you lose weight.”

much, you put on weight. You cut down your portions, you lose weight,” she says.

“We tend to have the ‘all-or-none’ approach, where we think we need to eat like a sparrow if we’re planning to lose weight, or eat oversized meals with calorie-laden drinks when we’re not dieting.

“But once you know how much is right for you, can enjoy pizza, pasta and all your favourite foods as long as they are in right quantity and frequency.

“It’s fine to eat these foods a couple of times a week, even when you’re losing weight,” she adds.

The ideal proportion for a balanced meal is one-quarter carbohydrate foods to one-quarter

protein foods and half salads and low-starch vegetables.

“Stick to low-GI carbs like pasta, sweet potato, peas, corn, basmati or doongara rice, rice noodles or grainy bread,” Amanda says.

“Occasionally you can also have medium-GI carbs like small potatoes, pita bread, parsnip or pumpkin.

“Excessive portion sizes, promotion of energydense packaged foods, and passive overeating have left us dazed and confused about how much we really need to eat.

“When you know how much is right, you can feel less guilty about eating higher-calorie foods occasionally.”

Work up sweat for a good cause

By Kathryn Vukovljak A ZUMBA class doesn’t feel like exercise – it’s more like being at a Latin dance party, according to Becky Fleming, owner of Kokoloco Dance Studio.

Becky is hosting a Zumba dance-a-thon on Sunday, May 2 from 2pm-6pm to raise money for the Haiti and Chile earthquake appeals.

“As a school we know a lot of people who have family in these regions,” Becky says. “We wanted to show our support and with the amazing popularity of Zumba, this seemed a great way to raise money.”

Zumba is a dance fitness program created by dancer and choreographer Alberto “Beto” Perez in Colombia during

the 1990s. The highenergy workout combines funky Latin beats and sexy moves, she says.

“It’s a fantastic, all-over workout,” Becky says. “I’ve had people quit their gym memberships and sign up for Zumba with us instead, because they get such amazing results.”

The dance-a-thon will be held at Club Lime, Bruce, and Becky says both

beginners and addicts are invited to shake and shimmy under the guidance of five Kokoloco Zumba-certified instructors.

“No experience is necessary and people of all ages are welcome to come and try it, even if it’s for the first time,” she says.

“The steps are easy to follow but we like to keep it challenging.”

The event will also feature a dance party and live percussion and entertainment.

Pre-sold tickets cost $20 for adults and $10 for children. At the door, adults will pay $25, children $15.

Contact Kokoloco on 6282 9666 or info@kokoloco.com.au

CityNews April 29-May 5 23

your week in the stars

With Joanne Madeline Moore May 3-9

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

This week will work best if you do something out of character for an Aries – think before you act and speak. Otherwise your impulsive nature could put others off-side and land you in hot water. If you are finalising financial deals – do your sums and read the fine print (thoroughly) first. Saturday is a fabulous day for romantic Rams.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)

With Mercury moving backwards through your sign (until May 12) your thinking is even slower than usual. That doesn’t have to be a problem though. Reworking old ideas will lead to future progress. Your motto for the week is from fellow Taurus, Glenn Ford: “If they try to rush me I tell them I’ve only got one other speed, and that’s slower.”

GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)

Geminis usually have a superficial knowledge about a lot of different topics. This week’s stars encourage you to delve into one subject in a deep and vast way, as you research, review and re-check all your facts – and then come up with some fascinating conclusions. Don’t underestimate the power of the personal touch at work.

CANCER (June 22 – July 22)

You’re feeling financially impulsive and won’t need much encouragement to splash the cash around. You need to reset your mindset. It’s out with spontaneous spending sprees and in with a more disciplined approach to money. The Sun, Jupiter and Pluto boost your spirits on the weekend, and put you in a positive frame of mind for the week ahead.

LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)

It will be tricky to fathom what’s really going on, as those around you have their own agendas and hidden motives. Tread gingerly with work colleagues. If you push them into a corner, the sparks will fly. Single Lions – are you looking for love in all the wrong places? It’s time to remove your rose-coloured glasses and take a reality check!

VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)

Virgos can be critical creatures but it’s time to look for solutions rather than problems, and to support and praise yourself; plus those around you. Your inspiration for the week is from birthday great Harry Truman: “A pessimist is one who makes difficulties of his opportunities, and an optimist is one who makes opportunities of his difficulties.”

LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)

This week’s stars favour burgeoning romances and the formation of fabulous new friendships, especially on Saturday.

Are you a lonely Libran who’s sick and tired of being single?

Long-term love is likely with someone from a different country or another culture, so perhaps it’s time to rekindle your overseas connections?

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)

general knowledge crossword No. 259 Across

Down

1 Which infection is known as breakbone fever?

7 At fairs and the like, what is a container in which prizes are hidden (5,3)?

8 What is a portable cellular telephone called?

9 Name the inflammation of the bladder.

10 What is a formal expression of sorrow?

11 What are immediate responses to stimuli?

14 Name the young of geese.

18 The Roman numeral XI stands for which number?

19 What is a cake topping of nuts, sugar, spices, etc?

21 Name an alternative word for an antenna.

22 Which term is descriptive of theft?

23 What do they call those people employed in mob scenes in movies?

1 Name a rounded mass of steamed dough often served with stewed meat.

2 Which sum of money once had a value of 21 shillings?

3 What is the negatively charged particle of an atom?

4 Name the smallest - and largest - cards in a pack.

5 What is another term for fool's gold?

6 To be characteristic of a deity is to be what?

12 Name the body of an aircraft.

13 Which other name describes herpes zoster?

15 What are groups of eight singers called?

16 Which word is descriptive of extra time, space, money, etc?

17 Name the type of polecat, used for hunting rabbits in their burrows.

20 What is a short satirical play?

1

4

2

3

Solution next week

5

7 8 9 10 11

14

15

12

16

13

17 18

19

20 21

22 23

Sudoku hard No.30

Solution next week

With Mercury reversing through your partnership zone, be extra careful what you say to others. Your words have the power to influence loved ones positively or negatively, so use them wisely. “Think twice before you speak, because your words will plant the seed of either success or failure in the mind of another.” (Napoleon Hill)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

There’s nothing worse than a bored Sagittarian! You’ll feel restless this week (especially if you’re cooped up at home) and your boredom threshold will be at an all-time low. So make sure you have plenty of challenging projects to channel all that excess energy into, otherwise you’ll drive yourself (and those around you) crazy.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Don’t allow your thinking to become too black and white - most issues are complex and have lots of grey areas that require exploration. Friends and finances are a fiery mix, so it’s not a good time to lend money to others. There could also be confusion over shared family resources, so be very clear about who owns what.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)

If you’ve ever been interested in your ancestry and family history, this week’s stars will pique your curiosity even further.

Aquarians are very future-oriented folk but perhaps it’s time to take a peek back into the past? With Venus in your friendship zone, enjoy hanging out with your friends, plus joint creative ventures are also favoured.

PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)

Your humanitarian side is highlighted as you reach out to others who are less fortunate than you, or who are in trouble. Your motto for the next seven days is from birthday great Audrey Hepburn: (born on May 4) “As you grow older you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2010. helping others.”

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6

Solutions

Crossword No.258 H D E I G R O P R H E R E R T R O B R

C L G B O N A I R R V E A D U A T E O E N O N O U N A W N E C E I P T A A S P I P O D I O R E T O N Z E H

E L A T O E I I G H T H I L C O R E S N U I G L E C T A E I R I N S D U R E A D S R E

Sudoku medium No.30

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