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Revealed: Why Rudd wasn’t coming back EXCLUSIVE: Kevin Rudd’s authorised biographer and “CityNews” columnist ROBERT MACKLIN reveals the secrets of why the former PM was never coming back THE departure, finally and forever, of Kevin Rudd as a leadership contender in the Labor Party was inevitable, for reasons which might not be readily apparent, but which I am now happy to share with you. Regular readers will recall that late last year I trespassed on my role as his authorised biographer to send him an Open Letter via these lively pages (CN, November 1, “Kevin, time to forgive and forget”) pleading with him to drop his endless agitation for a return to the top job and throw his full support behind Julia Gillard. The letter was republished on the ABC website and on Channel 7’s “Sunrise” program. “Sloppy Joe” Hockey took me to task for daring to go public. Kevin refused to consider it. Indeed, he immediately warned his family and our common friends that I was no longer to be trusted. Some family members ignored him; some “friends”, such as broadcaster Phillip Adams, broke off all contact with me. Indeed, it made for an interesting time as I re-calibrated my regard for individuals in both categories. Kevin’s action was not
unexpected. For I had come to realise that there were two underlying traits that first caused his downfall from the Prime Ministership and then ensured that he would never regain the Labor leadership. Both flowed from the foundations of his character in that dairy farming family in Queensland’s Bible belt. In the biography, I alluded to the split between the loveless, contending parents – the mother fiercely and puritanically Catholic, the father bawdily and bibulously agnostic; she a DLP supporter; he a Country Party man to the bootstraps. But I was unaware at the time of writing just how hostile the rift was. Nor did I appreciate just how much Kevin’s character had been shaped by his devotion to his mother’s cause. For he really believes he has been chosen to do God’s work. Such people have outsourced their moral code to some other-worldly formulation; this allows them to do “whatever it takes” to gain their political ends because, you see, it’s all for the greater good. So appeals to set aside personal ambition for the good of the party (or even the nation) fall on
index / contacts Arts&Entertainment 27-29 Canberra Confidential 20 Cinema 28 Dining 29 Garden 35 Letters 10 News 5-17 Politics 14 Puzzles 33 Socials 21-25
Cover: Fashion designer Sarah Joseph. Photo by Silas Brown. Story Page 17.
We told him so! Robert Macklin’s “CityNews” article of November 1, 2012 – read it in full at issuu.com/CityNews/docs/121101_citynews/9 deaf ears. It’s not that they are narcissistic – though the symptoms are the same – it’s that only they really understand the importance of their mission. The second aspect was that he didn’t just lack a gut feeling for the Australian Labor Party and its great traditions. At times, he seemed at odds with it and them. Gough Whitlam was his model, but it was Whitlam without the famous “program” that touched the
nation’s suburban roots; or the total immersion in Party reform that took Whitlam to the edge of the precipice until he won through. And alas, there was a third, best summarised in the bon mot that did the rounds of the beltway the day after he failed to challenge. It said simply, “Chicken Kev”. However, the good news, the wonderful news, is that his humiliating
Former PM Kevin Rudd... shaped by his devotion to his mother’s cause, says Macklin. decision not to challenge finally gave the Prime Minister the chance to root out the dissidents and put her Government’s best foot forward. Will it be enough to win on September 14? The conventional wisdom is a horse laugh. I beg to differ. robertmacklin.com
Wimpy Labor fails to fight the good fight, Page 14
Since 1993: Volume 19, Number 11
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Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au Journalists: Laura Edwards, laura@citynews.com.au Stephen Easton, stephen@citynews.com.au Kathryn Vukovljak, kathryn@citynews.com.au Arts editor: Helen Musa, 0400 043764 helen@citynews.com.au Design and photography: Silas Brown, 0412 718086 Brent McDonald Graphic designer: Leonie Fox Accounts manager: Bethany Freeman-Chandler accounts@citynews.com.au
Responsibility for election comment is taken by Ian Meikle, Level 1, 143 London Circuit, Canberra.
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news
The new way of living at the Narrabundah Long-Stay Caravan Park... 19 mobile homes will be installed next month. Photos by Silas Brown
Change comes slowly to the troubled park THE ACT Government’s move to transform the Narrabundah Long-stay Park is long overdue, according to residents, who say it was left in a “dog state” for years.
OPEN EVENING 5.00 - 6.30pm THURSDAY 4 APRIL
• Daramalan College Open Evening: 5.00pm - 6.30pm 4 APRIL. Tours end at 6.15pm • Year 7 2014 Information Session - 7.00pm - 8.00pm 4 APRIL in McCowage Hall • “ Try DARA for a DAY ” - Tuesday 7 MAY 2013. Students currently in Year 6, and who are not attending with their Catholic primary school on 3 May, are welcome to attend Daramalan College to experience the opportunities we offer our Year 7 students. Families need to register for either the full day or half day program by Tuesday 30 April 2013 by email <lyn.wynants@daramalan.act.edu.au> or phone 6245 6379
www.daramalan.act.edu.au Daramalan College is an independent coeducational Catholic school established in 1962
A School with Heart 6 CityNews March 28 - April 10
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• Year 11 2014 Information Evening - 7.30pm Monday 20 May in McCowage Hall
reports
Park residents will also have the first chance to buy or rent the mobile houses, priced between $167,000 and $195,000. So far, Housing ACT has received nine expressions of interest for the houses, which include 13 two-bedroom houses, two two-bedroom adaptable houses and four three-bedroom houses. Graham Plumb, 66, has been a resident of the park for more than 30 years and says while he is pleased with the new houses, “it’s been a long time coming”. “This was just a dog of a place for about 10 years,” he says. “[The upgrade] should have been done earlier. Many of the places, they were just uninhabitable. There were ad-hoc buildings on the back, a bit of iron here and there and a frame, completely unsafe and they got away with it and it just built from there. The place was let go for too long.” A long-term resident of the park, who did not wish to be named, says he is concerned some residents are being forced out unfairly. “Most people here bought their homes under the impression that it was theirs, now some are having to leave them for new ones when they’re demolished... but it’s not their fault things have gotten to this state,” he says. But Mr Dawes says the Government handled a sensitive and complex process “as quickly as it could”. “Once the ACT Government took over the park, there was an options paper written and that’s when the compliance paper took place,” he says. “It’s not a simple process, we are getting about 20 or 30 homes across the line, and we have people individually speaking with residents about each of their needs to ensure we improve the long term viability of the park for everyone... it’s a gradual process.” Fifteen of the 19 new mobile homes have been installed on site so far, with remaining homes due to be completed next month. Graham Plumb, park resident of 30 years... pleased Any homes not taken up by existing residents with the new mobile homes, “it’s been a long time will be offered to the general community as an coming”. affordable housing option.
But director-general of the Economic Development Directorate, David Dawes, says action was taken soon after the Government regained management of the park in 2006. Nineteen mobile homes will be installed next month at the northern end of the park as part of the Government’s $7.7 million expansion. Mr Dawes says the upgrade was necessary after an assessment two years ago uncovered health and safety concerns. “The assessment indicated that it might not be structurally or financially viable to bring some dwellings to an appropriate standard required for compliance certification,” Mr Dawes says. All existing houses at the park will now need to meet Australian building code guidelines to receive an occupancy certification to enable the structure to remain. Housing ACT is working with residents whose dwellings did not receive a certificate to either rectify their homes or find alternative accommodation if the home needs to be demolished, with low-income residents receiving financial assistance from the Government.
Daramalan College
Laura Edwards
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Moscow Circus tickets to be won citynews.com.au
LEARNING
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TO BE STARS 20 It’s Audi and James YE
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Over the next 3 years clubs in the AC T will PROVIDE...
How two schools are taking ‘Guys & Dolls’ to the main stage
Swinging on your hills hoist
JERSEYS FOR FUTURE FOOTY STARS
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Shrubs show off autumn’s colours CEDRIC BRYANT
CityNews March 21-27 1
19/03/13 4:12 PM
THE captions in last week’s cover story listed the wrong performers in the upcoming Grammar schools’ season of “Guys and Dolls”. The featured performers are Audi Reza and James Quiggin. “CityNews” apologises for disappointing Audi and James, their parents and families.
Heyday festival
44 performers and in 1966, 74). The producer in 1955 was Lois Bellingham, with conductor William (Bill) Hunt. In 1966, the producer was Eileen (Pixie) Gray and the conductor, Alan Christie. Ballet for the first production was led by Wendy Longmore and Fay French (later Marcourt) and for the second, from the Canberra School of Ballet (Betty Laws with Gail Edwards). Those of us involved in earlier presentations wish the current team an equally exciting success.
Alan Christie – chorus member/ stage hand 1955, conductor 1966
Geological journey
Why Lundy must stay I TAKE issue with Ric Hingee’s assertions (CN, March 7, letters) that Senator Kate Lundy, as Minister for Sport, has been “missing in action” on the problems he mentioned (illegal gambling, drug-taking, etc). Senator Lundy has demonstrated a commitment to representing Australian sport in a positive light. Does Hingee really believe she can eradicate the problems with one swift gesture of a ministerial hand? The illegal activities, having
Easter’s festival of mixed folk HELEN MUSA
HUME’S Heyday Family Festival will be held at Cooma Cottage, Yass, from 10am on Saturday, April 13. Step back into the 1850s of Hamilton Hume’s world and see a bullock wagon and a team of 12 bullocks unload and learn about blade shearing, hand milking, fruit preserving, blacksmithing, horse shoeing and pole-lathe wood-turning. There will be music and poetry recitals, hay rides, sheep dogs and a tug of war. Lunch and teas available. Entry is $5; families, $15. The National Trust cottage is at 576 Yass Valley Way, Yass.
Best wishes for opera YOUR “senior” readers are heartened to hear (CN, March 21) that Canberra audiences will be again treated to a new local production of “Die Fledermaus” with a local cast in the Albert Hall. This will bring fond memories of two earlier local productions of an English version – “Pink Champagne” – of this delightful operetta – the first, in the Albert Hall some 58 years ago to the day; the second, in the Canberra Theatre, 47 years ago, in the same month, March 16-19, presented by the Canberra Philharmonic Society – on both occasions with a totally local cast (1955,
TIM GAVEL
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Frank Madrid, Turner
Well written, well read
What’s with sport’s angry young men?
EBR ATING
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general public to feel connected to the initiatives. The fact that a list of 100 things that people like about Canberra does not include any of our performing arts organisations is very telling. We will come to the end of 2013 and feel let down in relation to the gains made by the performing arts sector as a result of the Centenary. Some people were expecting Robyn Archer to become the catalyst of a cultural renaissance for our city. As much as I am very thankful for her contribution, her energy and wonderful speeches, I strongly believe that it is only up to us Canberrans to make it happen.
CONFUSED SPORTS CLUBS HIT BY ‘MONTY PYTHON’ PRICING
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IN her “CityNews” Arts in the City column, Helen Musa related a question posed by Canberra’s chief arts lobby, The Childers Group, in regards to what should happen once the Centenary celebrations are over. I am of the opinion that a more urgent and pressing question should be what has happened to the arts in the city in the lead up to the celebrations and, indeed, what has been happening during the actual year? I had great hopes that, coinciding with the preparations towards the big year, Canberra was going to witness a concerted effort in the area of audience development, including a series of events in the lead up to 2013 that would involve our arts community and would invite the
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letters Centenary will let down the local arts
been exposed by the ACC, are now in the public domain. It is for the law-enforcement authorities to prosecute where there are legal grounds for it. The important job at hand is to preserve the integrity of Australian sport, and promote its positive aspects, and judging by various sports enhancement programmes that she has introduced and supported, Senator Lundy shows commitment.
Lulu Respall-Turner, Belconnen
DR Richard Blewett, from Geoscience Australia, will present a public lecture titled “Shaping a Nation: A Geology of Australia” at CSIRO Discovery, 6pm, on Wednesday, April 10. The lecture will take the audience on a journey through Australia’s long and complex geological evolution and explore how this geological legacy has shaped the nation. Refreshments will be served following the talk. Bookings and more information via info@ inspiringtheact.org.au or call 6246 4646.
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opinion
news
When chooks lose their heads
Jane’s
Recent bizarre political events remind MARK PARTON of a headless chook... I GREW up on a quiet street in a little West Australian farming town. We lived at number 7 Elizabeth Street with Mr and Mrs Scott on one side and Mr and Mrs Close on the other. Joe and Margaret Close had a chookpen. I remember the day I saw old Joe take the head off a chicken. Well, maybe not the actual beheading, but I will never forget what followed. This chook emerged from behind the shed running and flapping its wings, but without its head. I was wide eyed and speechless as, it seemed to me, the chook knew what it was doing. The only other thing I’ve seen like it in my 46 years on the planet was the Federal Labor Party’s non-leadership spill. The ALP looked very much like Joe Close’s headless chook, in that as the frenzy began it appeared that this creature knew where it was going. It didn’t. Before too long it was running into trees and the sides of buildings before coming to rest in a heap, pretty much where it started. Political watchers were thoroughly entertained by what was, quite possibly, the most unstructured game of “Simon says” that ever was. You have to feel for Simon Crean don’t you? A number of Kevin Rudd supporters obviously inspired him to jump out of the aeroplane. He took the leap in the belief that others were coming with him. They weren’t. I don’t think Kevvy even undid his seatbelt. It was a long way to the ground for Simon. I received reports the day after the non spill that Mr Crean was spotted on Blake Ferguson’s roof at Nicholls sharing a pineapple Cruiser with Josh Dugan and giving the finger to KRudd. I’m not sure if there was any truth to that, but I understand that calls were made to the police, to David Furner and Albo. Federal Labor, in theory, reaffirmed its leader but, in reality, looks as lost as a headless chook. Mark Parton is the breakfast announcer at 2CC.
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JANE Easthope admits she has “hit the ground running” in her new role as CEO of Canberra CBD Ltd. Even when she stops for a coffee, she only has to glance out the window to see a to-do list before her. “This is still a city in transition, if you go to Melbourne and Sydney you won’t see big car parks like these,” she says, waving an arm towards London Circuit. “There is a lot to do in this area.” But Canberra city has come a long way, Jane says, since she arrived here in the mid-1980s. “I remember moving here and felt as though it was still teething, it’s a much more grown-up city now,” she says. This month Jane replaced Stephen Gregory as the Civic-based organisation’s third CEO. “It’s been a real privilege, so I hope to build on the work that others have done prior to me, to strengthen that calendar of events and strengthen partnership with the ACT Government so we can be reassured that investment will continue in the city,” she says. And while one of Jane’s first jobs in her new role wasn’t the most glamorous – promoting new portable urinals in Garema Place – the mum of two says she is “ready for anything”. Originally from Sydney, Jane studied degrees in landscape architecture, marketing and tourism before taking up a position at Territory and Municipal Services and later the Economic Development Directorate. As CEO, her vision for the city is a more vibrant, “intense” atmosphere. “It’s about building and growing as the sort of premier hub not just of Canberra, but the Canberra region as well, so people when they go shopping, they’re choosing the city over and above other centres within their region or indeed instead of Sydney, there’s no reason they shouldn’t come here,” she says. “I’d like to see more people residing here, I want to see more pedestrian corridors, more cafes down laneways – it’s about keeping energy in the city, and that’s having people live in it.” Major projects ahead, says Jane, include working with the ACT Government
vision for the city Laura Edwards reports
on the City Cycle Loop, the City to the Lake project and the light rail. But with big projects come big changes, and Jane says Canberrans will have to accept the days of parking outside “and picking up drycleaning” could soon be over. “People have to realise that this is the city centre, and that’s a behavioural change, it takes a while and it’s really annoying for people because they anticipate they can come and park really quickly and meet friends,” she says. “But I think Canberrans are very adaptable, look at the pace of how we’ve grown so quickly.” Despite the growth ahead, Jane wants to retain “that unique Canberra feel”. “The city centre will always maintain that Canberra feel because there are height restrictions, you cannot go and build a 17-storey building like you can in Woden because of the proximity to the parliamentary triangle and the Griffin legacy, and that maintains Canberra’s uniqueness.” That uniqueness, says Jane, is what she experiences when she walks to work from her Aranda home via Black Mountain. “In what city can you go bushwalking while on the way to work? It’s amazing,” she says.
Great Moscow Circus winners
Jane Easthope... the days of Canberrans parking outside “and picking up drycleaning” could soon be over. Photo by Silas Brown
Winners of the “CityNews” tickets to see The Great Moscow Circus opening night on Friday, April 12 are: Christine Crosswell, of Conder; Tricia Bell, Theodore; Jacqui Hurditch, Queabeyan; Suzi Gutesa, Wanniassa and Lisa Brinton, Monash.
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politics
Wimpy Labor fails to fight the good fight Labor has failed to understand the importance of fighting the good fight and, where necessary, going down screaming, says MICHAEL MOORE THE Gillard Labor Government has failed miserably to understand the workings of minority government. It has failed to understand the importance of fighting the good fight and, where necessary, going down screaming. In a minority government it is not necessary to win each piece of legislation. For example, Communications Minister Stephen Conroy gave up on his last four media bills. He should have lost on the floor of the parliament. Instead of looking like wimps, Labor could have gone on the attack accusing the Liberals and independents of being too reliant on the media moguls who were opposed to the legislation. From the time Kevin Rudd backed down on the carbon tax and super profits tax on mining, Labor has looked weak. Who wants to support a party that will not stand up for the principles on which they were elected? Labor needed the Greens and the independents. However, it has compromised to such an extent that it appears to have compromised principles. And yet, it has managed to get mountains of legislation through the parliament through hard work, difficult negotiations, compromise and persuasiveness despite an Opposition that has largely played a negative, blocking game. There are those who believe that Labor may still rise from the ashes of the last day of the last sitting week. It is not impossible but even though things
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can change rapidly in politics, a phoenix-like resurrection is certainly looking increasingly unlikely. On the same day that Labor was imploding, Paola Tatoro, of the UK “Guardian”, was identifying what a mob of whingers Australians have become. She pointed out that while Australia has experienced 21 straight years of economic growth, the rest of the world “lurches from crises to economic crises”. There is more to our economy than a surplus. With Labor in chaos, the Liberals have been able to appeal to the greed of ordinary Australians, somehow persuading a majority of us that we could be much better off with a change of government. Under conservative governments worldwide the norm is that the discrepancy between the rich and the poor grows. Tatoro goes on to suggest that “yet another political attack against Australia’s leader smacks of a particular strain of antipodean madness”. After all, she points out that the Liberal Party has tried four different leaders in just six years, while in the past 10 years the Labor Party has dispatched five of its leaders. The confusion between presidential style politics that the major parties have adopted has come back to bite them. As discussed a few weeks ago, some leaders pretend to be elected by the people, believe their own rhetoric and then squawk when there is enough dissatisfaction within the parliament for their Westminster colleagues to remove them.
dose of dorin
Other leaders accept the charade and have stepped down with grace – but not Kevin Rudd. Can his latest commitment to never stand for Prime Minister again really be believed? Former Labor leader, Mark Latham, launched a scathing attack on Rudd and his acolytes on Sydney radio station 2UE, arguing that Rudd “has the dregs of the Labor movement with him” and “we should be better than that”. A run of those “dregs” has now stood down as
Ministers, leaving Julia Gillard to revamp her cabinet in an attempt to re-establish solidarity. Lack of solidarity and unity, even within cabinet, has been a key element in the implosion of Labor. But “a week is a long time in politics” and Labor has until mid-September. Michael Moore was an independent member of the ACT Legislative Assembly (1989 to 2001) and was minister for health.
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news / cover story
Sarah’s bold designs on fashion success IT’s not surprising to learn Sarah Joseph has already made her mark on Canberra since moving here seven months ago. In her first three years as a fashion designer, she’s had a Bollywood actress wear one of her gowns on the red carpet, designed a dress for a celebrity wedding and featured in magazines such as “OK!” and “Vogue”. Since immigrating to Australia from Wales with her husband in August, Sarah has set up a studio in O’Malley, found herself a business partner – photographer Robert Coppa – and, in May, will have her evening
Robert Coppa and Sarah Joseph... “I never follow fashion, I literally just make what I’m feeling on that day,” says Sarah. Photo by Silas Brown
Fashfest excitement is mounting with the revelation that it will be staged with a ‘wow factor’ in an ‘architecturally stunning and beautifully designed space’ at Canberra Airport. Fashion writer LAURA EDWARDS meets an up-and-coming designer who will be making her Australian debut at the fashion festival and bridal collection feature in highlyanticipated fashion festival, Fashfest. Sarah will be exhibiting at Canberra’s inaugural Fashfest, from May 1-4 at Canberra Airport. “Fashfest has been fantastic, there’s a huge amount of coverage and everyone’s so excited,” Sarah says. Sarah has been professionally designing bridal and evening wear under her label, Sarah Joseph Couture, for just over three years and hopes the exposure from Fashfest will help steadily build a client base in her new hometown, after leaving behind a firm following in Wales. She says the pinnacle of her career so far was when she designed a wedding dress for the bride of Welsh rugby union star James Hook. The wedding had a fourpage spread in “OK!” magazine. “I’d love to do a celebrity wedding in Australia, now that I’m here!” she says. Sarah was also “over the moon” when Bollywood actress Samira Mohamed-Ali wore one of her gowns to the Cannes film festival in 2011. She says the secret to her success “is not having one distinct style”. “I never follow fashion, I literally just make what I’m feeling on that day... one
minute I’ve got a beautiful couture gown, the next I’ve got zebra print, and I think that’s what keeps people interested in me,” she says. Sarah describes her latest collection as “a Sass and Bide take on bridal and evening wear”. “My bridal couture is very elegant but there’s always a twist to make them stand out, to really make a statement,” she says. Sarah, who has just turned 30, says she has never wanted to be anything else other than a fashion designer. “My father says I was always drawing dresses in crayon when I was young,” she says. “I come from a very creative family.” After completing tailoring and patterncutting courses, Sarah’s love for design grew when she landed a gig working for bridal designer Stephanie Allin. Work experience with American designer Tom Ford and Australian eveningwear guru Alex Perry were also “eye-openers”, she says. “After that, I really got started and my own business just went through the roof,” she says. Sarah Joseph Couture can be seen at Fashfest which runs from May 1-4. Visit From Sarah Joseph’s latest collection, which she describes as “a Sass fashfest.com.au for more information. and Bide take on bridal and evening wear”. Photos by Robert Coppa
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autumn / winter fashion
Fast forward fashion’s new Maria Dress in Brighton Stripe $120 from Darling Central
Fashion writer LAURA EDWARDS previews the colder seasons’ hot, new looks COOL weather may be on its way, but don’t mourn the loss of summer fashion just yet – bright colours can easily transcend into an autumn/winter wardrobe with a little tweaking. Canberra Centre stylist Colleen Cuneo says pops of lemon, coral and orange are fantastic for adding an edge to a dark blazer or suit this season. And while last year was a nod to the 1970s, this year is an explosion of eras. “You can walk into any store and see a collaboration of eras from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s or 1990s,” Colleen says. But don’t overdo it – stick to one era and modernise it rather than risking looking like a walking vintage store. “You might instead pop on a peplum dress, which is inspired by the 1980s, and then pair it with a modern shoe,” Colleen says. “We’re also seeing graphics and geometric prints on the runway, which is very 1960s, and carrying through to baroque, which is a combination of 1980s and 1990s. You can add some modern accessories to really complete these looks.” Investing in a great trench coat or blazer is a must, says Colleen. “They might vary this season, with lots of gold buttons and velvet coats, there’s a bit of bling,” she says. Figure-hugging, wet-look pants and leather panelling are also in trend this year. “It’s really encouraging you to show off your silhouette,” says Colleen. “If you’re not as confident, wear with a longerline jacket, which just passes the derriere, for a more flattering look.” And good news for feet – flats are back. “Flats are really in this season and there are many shoes at the moment with silver studs, which really adds a rock ‘n’ roll edge,” Colleen says.
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‘Opal collection’ silk scarf, $59, ‘Gumleaf’ silk scarf, $59, and Georgette scarf with gold leaf, $49 from Australian Choice
Lucus Bag, $270, from Anuk Peru
Ecco, $65, and Trenery, $90, from Material Pleasures
looks to yesterday Capa Edith, $525, from Anuk Peru
Cuella de Flores neck warmer, $70 and beanie, $55, from Anuk Peru
Ripe bow tie blouse, $64.95, from Motherly Instincts
Zara, $45, from Material Pleasures
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Canberra Confidential
Lights, action from Michael
IN an amazing display of departmental responsiveness, Roads ACT traffic signals manager Michael Day says he altered the main flow of traffic out of Gungahlin a few weeks ago on the basis of one complaint, from a man who felt he waited too long at 7.10am every morning to turn right on to Gungahlin Drive from Gundaroo Drive (presumably, with a group of other motorists). The unintended consequence, according to CC’s almost suicidal, Gungahlin deep throat, was sheer chaos and horrendous delays for hundreds of motorists trying to escape the area for work each morning. “It’s really hard; you can’t please everybody,” says Michael, with a masterful degree of understatement. “It’s a fine line as to when you have the co-ordination and when you don’t. “I thought: ‘Maybe we are introducing the co-ordination a bit early,’ so I changed it and instead of introducing it at 7am, I brought it in at 7.30. “That was a couple of weeks ago. Then, as a result, I got a lot more complaints from people on the main road!” Based on the weight of those complaints, he’s switched it back.
Double the junk PICTURED is a weekend’s worth of junk mail doing the rounds in Gungahlin. Apart from the staggering quantity, all 986 grams of it, what’s interesting is that the deliverers may have hit on an efficiency unanticipated by their major clients. This haul includes the current week and the following week’s catalogues for Woolies, Coles, Aldi and local supermarkets, IGA and Supa Barn, which means only a fortnightly drop instead of dragging all that paper around the block every week. Consumers just have to remember which is which week to save bad feeling at the checkout.
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Know something? / confidential@citynews.com.au
her city-first organisation’s mobile urinal trial in late-night Civic hotspots collected 225 litres from the bladders of about 1200 relieved men over the four nights of the first weekend of the three-week trial. Wow, who would have thought? While Jane says it’s a good thing for the city’s laneways, CC spoke to some grumbling party girls who say it’s okay for the blokes, but they’re still back behind the dumpster bins.
Symphony’s familiar ring
Talented Mils departs THE extremely talented Miled (“Mils”) Achi, editorial and creative director of “The Canberra Times” quarterly “In the City”, has departed after four years in the Fyshwick bunker. In a missive to friends he writes: “Whilst I have not decided whether I will be leaving Canberra altogether I truly felt that ‘The Canberra Times’ was no longer an environment that natured [sic] my talents and it was a hard decision to walk away from the magazines I loved creating.” No one has been appointed to fill his big shoes.
Jane brings relief IN case you’d wondered, eager beaver Jane Easthope, Canberra CBD’s Ltd’s new CEO, is excited to report that
LOCAL musical maestro Carl Rafferty had been thinking there was a familiar ring to Andrew Schultz’s symphony, “Centenary”, premiered at the birthday Big Day Out. In reading the “CityNews” reviewer’s reference to the new work’s “film-score style”, it hit him. Following Rafferty’s advice, CC accessed YouTube and, like him, found a similar brass, swelling motifs and energetic grandeur in the theme for the 1990 thriller, “The Hunt For Red October”.
Plating up a new look AN insider has revealed the Canberra Centre will receive a little nip and tuck for its 50th birthday this year. Apparently, there is to be an upgrade in the lower ground food court in the next few weeks. “All the stores in that area will close up while they renovate, and Priceline will move near Target,” the insider says.
Corkage watch IN response to last week’s invitation to expose inflated corkage prices, CC hears that Kingston’s Me and Mrs Jones charges corkage for BYO at $7 per person. “At that price you should get to keep the glass!” writes Ellen. Dob ‘em in at confidential@citynews.com.au
‘Times’ apologises IN the certain knowledge that our hundreds of thousands of loyal readers will have missed it in Saturday’s “Canberra Times”– and further to last week’s item about how a nasty little piece of unchecked journalism aimed at humiliating “CityNews” editor Ian Meikle blew up in their faces – the paper, after a bit of huffing and puffing on both sides, has generously and properly apologised to editor Meikle. Full credit to the maturity of “Times” editor-in-chief Rod Quinn, who was feisty but fair.
Hmmm
STEPHANIE Hawkins, new Liberals media adviser, in a media briefing note on the Assembly’s Centenary of Canberra Motion wrote: “The Chief Minister will be proposing the motion, Jeremy and Shane will then respond, and there will be a vote of some sort.”
scene / around canberra At the Hats and Gloves High Tea, National Gallery of Australia
Geraldine Collison, Justine Burke, Susie Lourens and Lynne Bliss
Colleen Dahl, Elle Cobanov, Slavica Cobanov, Julie Bennett and Anooshe Mushtaq
Claire Vincent and Tara Dunn
Anne Robbie, Lauren Humphreys, Jessica Bennett, Jayne Armstrong and Cath Chaffey
Kim Hocking, Stephanie Jepsen, Kelley-Ann Axiom, Marcia Ishlove, Erin Cain and Amanda Jorgensen
Kerrie Stellios, Rachel Evagelou and Christine Havas
Julie Canning, Ayisha Cicchini and Lynsye Peterson
Louise Dobson, Michelle Fulton and Michelle O’Brien
Michael Inglis and Sandy Kajewski
Janice Keogh and Marijke Bennett
invite us / scene@citynews.com.au
The Zonta club of Canberra Autumn High Tea, Acton
Bozena Rider, Lynn Fowler and Penny Gardner
Carol Richards, Beth Rogers and Lesley Morrison
John Broome and Marilyn Thrupps
Mary Broome and Margaret Perdriau
Sharon Williams and Steve Allen
Sue Cuddy, Cigdem La Salle and Margie Burns
CityNews March 28 - April 10 21
scene
more photos / www.citynews.com.au
‘BMA’ exhibition, Canberra Contemporary Art Space, Braddon Australian Catholic University’s 50 years of Signadou, gala dinner, Old Parliament House
Adam Stankevicius and Hayley Kershaw
Sylvie Stern and ‘pling
Julia Winterflood with hosts Allan Sko and Scott Layne
Lisa Howdin, Andrew Minihan and Claire Matthews
22 CityNews March 28 - April 10
Drew Morgan and Paolo Ruiz
Simon Gallant and Jen Austin
Martin Devlin and Francis Pavez
Sharon Leigh-Hazell, Maureen Wood and Lorraine Greenwood
David Williams, Susan Williams, Dr Elaine Jefford and Steve Jefford
MP Gai Brodtmann and Prof Michael Frater
Maj-Gen Peter Cosgrove, Nancy Clarke, Sister Dr Jo Brady, Sister Rosemary Lewins
Sister Maureen O’Connell, Sister Patricia Davis and Sister June Peck
Vicky van der Sanden, Maureen Doszpot and MLA Steve Doszpot
Monsignor John Woods, Prof Marie Emmitt, Rev Paul Gallagher, Assoc Prof Patrick McArdle
CityNews March 28 - April 10 23
scene
invite us / scene@citynews.com.au
At ‘The History of District and Community Nursing in the ACT’ launch, Southern Cross Club, Woden
Lyn Bower and Paulia Elliott
Sue Byrnes and Sandra Burgess
Alex Palmer, Olga Johnson, Moira Welch and Linda McDonald
Louise Sutton and Di Schulz
Yvonne Sangster,Tania Shaw, Leonie Francis and Pat Shaw
Eveleen Golding and Helen Henson
At ‘Thursday’ opening night, The Playhouse, Civic
Verity Foster-Greenwood and Josie Huynh
Alexandra Gillespie and Jo Currey
Michelle Keyes-Melhado and Nicole Keyes
Fiona Nelson and Simone Huntingford
Valese Sewell and Robyn Fleming
Shirley Eglitis and Melita Flynn
George and Iris Barlin 75th wedding anniversary, Southern Cross Yacht Club, Yarralumla
24 CityNews March 28 - April 10
George, Iris, Rebecca, Karly and Brian Barlin
Guillermina Barlin, Jenny Rayner, Patricia Burbidge and Carolyn Cardent
BJ, Lisa and Caine Barlin
Lyn, Beryl, Irena and Mark Barlin
Athol and Gordon Barlin
Chris Le Ruez and Don Doering
Schiavello celebrates 25 years / advertising feature
Party takes a trip to the past SCHIAVELLO celebrated 25 years creating workplace interiors in Canberra on Saturday night, with a 1980s-themed birthday bash at the company’s Fyshwick showroom. The party theme was chosen to reflect the era when the office furniture and fit-out company first opened a small Canberra office, to co-ordinate the large government projects it was winning. A roaming magician and a three-piece band entertained staff and guests, including Tony and Giuseppe Schiavello, the brothers who started the business in Melbourne in 1966. The director of the ACT branch, Luciano Fabrizio, says the Canberra operation had only one salesperson and a receptionist when he first joined them in 1993. “We were based in Braddon at the time,” he recalls. “It was like a little satellite office, and it was run as a ‘three-man band’ for those first few years.” Since then, that satellite office has grown into a key part of Canberra’s building industry, directly employing 56 staff who share a wealth of combined experience. Team leader Shaun Masters has been with the group for 22 years, while three others – Frank Genovesi, Rob Farrell and Simon Webb – have all clocked up more than a decade with several others not far behind. Luciano points out that the company manufactures its furniture locally, despite the availability of cheap imports. “We’ve resisted the temptation to import products from overseas, so we’ve got control over the quality and lead times of our products,” he says. The local branch is also a committed member of the Canberra community, and has picked up various awards for workplace safety and environmental sustainability, including a high commendation in the 2010 BPN Sustainability Awards for its E-cycle Program. “E-cycle is our environmental program, where we recycle our product that’s been out in the market, some of it for the past 25 years,” Luciano says. “Once it’s finished its lifecycle, we bring it back to our warehouse and we either recycle it or on-sell it, which means we minimise our waste to landfill and people get an environmentally friendly product as well.” Schiavello also does its part supporting local sports teams and various charitable causes, particularly Lifeline and the 48-hour charity cycling event Lifecycle this October, which will help the Leukaemia Foundation build a new care facility close to The Canberra Hospital. “We try to be a good corporate citizen and help out wherever we can in the local community,” Luciano says.
Mauro Vecchi, Luciano Fabrizio, Claudio Ciuffetelli, Roberta Ciuffetelli, Frank Genovesi, Lindy Genovesi
Kier Gregg, Amanda Fabrizio and Natalie Schiavello
Franco Foti, Conan Uphill, Rob Farrell and Aaron Bruce
Lindy Genovesi, Melissa Evans and Nicole Mackay
Julie Evans and Vanessa Brady
John Miller, Cheryl Miller and Luciano Fabrizio
Rob Farrell, Joel Betts, Mauro Vecchi and David Baillie
Raffaele Tigani, Marcelo Solar and John Romano
Lauren Sharman, Al Kirk and Alanna Kochel
Aaron Bruce and Karen Hines
Tiffany Heighway, Jessica Merrigan and Grace Smith
Jo Arvonen and Kier Gregg
CityNews March 28 - April 10 25
26 CityNews March 28 - April 10
arts & entertainment
Wendy Johnson Letting the lava flow
Risky business when the circus comes to town WHAT is it that gives the circus its continuing hold on us? Is it the display of brilliant virtuosic skills? Is it the sequins, feathers and outlandish colours? Is it the humour of the clowns? After a visit to the Greater Moscow Circus in Wagga Wagga recently, I’d venture to say that it’s none of these. No, what makes the circus endure is the sheer risk. To be sure, this new 20-act Michael Edgley spectacular, soon to hit Canberra’s Majura Park, features two very funny clowns, one of them the artistic director Yuriy Abrosimov. As well, there are the charming miniature ponies led by an 11-year-old horse master, the vivid depictions of old and new Russia, and artist Albert Roubaud, who seems to hold his own head in his hand. But to my mind, the most exciting moments are the most terrifying ones, such as the aerial silk-and-tissue act by gymnast Oxana Zinchenko, or the “Group of Risk” on the Russian bar and wall trampoline, or the Globe of Death,
HELEN MUSA went ringside for a close look at what makes the Great Moscow Circus such an enduring success. where motorbikes whiz around at speeds in excess of 80 km/h. For at any moment, you feel with certainty, that any one of them could come crashing. And sometimes they do. Take the clown, Mario Espana. The very reason he’s a clown is that at age 19 he suffered a serious accident on the Russian Swing. Or daredevil Brazilian knife-thrower Alfredo Silva, who tells “CityNews”: “I’m 2000 per cent more scared than the person on the knife-throwing board.” Could he miss and hit his assistant? Yes, he could and has done once, injuring her in the leg. His present partner trusts him completely, but he now takes no chances, preparing for each knife-throwing episode with rigorous rehearsing and never drinking before a show. His knives are real – we checked them. The 30mm pine board is tough.
The speed is incredible. But though he knows fear, underneath he is confident. “I shoot to miss – I always hit my target,” he can now say. Like all members of the Moscow Circus, Silva is multi-skilled. You’ll see him selling drinks before the show, you’ll see him throwing the knives and you’ll see him as the group leader in the terrifying Globe of Death. Silva, who speaks five languages, represents the sixth generation of a circus family, but can’t afford to be complacent. Isolated from his family, who mostly live in Las Vegas, his is a life of constant control. Yet, he tells us, it’s normal to him and he never longs for a 9-to-5 existence. “I never missed what I didn’t have,” he says. Great Moscow Circus, Majura Park, Canberra Airport, April 12-28, bookings to 0429 667 269.
By Helen Musa
THE 2013 National Cultural Awards and the inaugural Jean Cecily Drake-Brockman Prize for Poetry were presented at Manning Clark House on Sunday.
Brazilian knife-thrower Alfredo Silva in action... “I shoot to miss – I always hit my target.”
Kylie discovers Snow Black By Helen Musa
“SKIN as white as snow, lips as red as blood, hair as black as ebony”... you know these words from the story of the girl with the envious stepmother, who escapes and is looked after by seven very little people.
Kylie Farmer... “There’s a strong element of evil” in the show, she says.
Yes, it’s “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” one of the archetypal European fairytales. But what if I talked of “skin that glows like a pearl, hair as black as night”. You wouldn’t know I was talking about the story of “Wulamanayuwi and the Seven Pamanui”. Wulamanayuwi is the young girl with the strangely-coloured skin, and she’s got seven little brothers, maybe spirit creatures? And her father is about to marry a nasty woman, insanely jealous of Wulamanayuwi. Sounds familiar. It’s got Kylie Farmer thinking. She plays
Awards old and new
that young girl, a Tiwi Island Snow White, in “Wulamanayuwi and the Seven Pamanui”, coming to the Playhouse as the NT’s contribution to our Centenary. What if our most disturbing stories are universal ones? Wouldn’t that mean that human beings, black or white, are inextricably linked? “Jason [writer Jason De Santis] wanted to show how closely a story is aligned with those of classic European fairytales,” she tells “CityNews”. “He wanted indigenous and white Australian audiences to interact with the dreamtime fairytales.” Farmer, who’s performed at Shakespeare’s Globe in London for the Cultural Olympiad, got her start in live theatre with Waa’s Yirra Yaakin company. More recently, she’s strayed towards the big and small screens until offered this unique role by director Eamon Flack in a play that combines film, puppetry and live action in a way not unlike kids’ theatre, where she started. Coming from the Nyungar/Bibbulmun
nation in WA, she’s had to learn a whole new language. This show is anything but kids’ stuff. She describes her character as “a witty and strong young lady, coming into her own, entering womanhood”, and whose mother died giving birth to her. The wicked would-be stepmother, played by her real-life cousin Natasha, aims to steal the soul of her father – “a nasty piece of work that one!” Farmer says. While about 40 per cent of their audience members have been children, it’s the adults who laugh louder. “There’s a strong element of evil” in the show, she explains, that sees “some kids cry and run back to their parents… it’s good that when the kids hear the adults laugh, they feel more comfortable.” “Wulamanayuwi and the Seven Pamanui” at The Playhouse, April 10 to 13, bookings to 6275 2700 or canberratheatrecentre.com.au
Winners of the individual and group cultural awards were presented with sculptures specially created by Braidwood sculptor Victoria Royds, while each of the two poetry winners won $500, a reading at the House and two residencies. The individual award went to Ross McMullin for “Farewell, Dear People”, 10 extended biographies of young men from Australia’s gifted “lost generation” of World War I, a Scribe publication. Special mentions went to Pattie Wright for “Ray Parkin’s Odyssey” and Nicholas Brown and Susan Boden for “A Way Through: The Life of Rick Farley”. The group award went to Big hArt theatre company for “Ngapartji Ngapartji”. Special mentions went to Lajamanu Community and Tracks Dance Company for the Milpirri Festival and Bangarra Dance Theatre for “Terrain”. Judith Crispin, the director of Manning Clark House, said she was “extremely happy to see so many nominations of Aboriginal authors and groups.” The joint prizewinners in the Jean Cecily Drake-Brockman prize for poetry were Gerard Butera of Coburg, Victoria, for his poem “We had other plans” and Todd Turner of Parramatta for “Fieldwork”.
YEH, YEH, YEH
WIN TICKETS TO THE FABULOUS BEATLE BOYS Direct from sell-out concerts in Canada and North America, South Africa and Asia, The Fabulous Beatle Boys will be playing no less than 35 classic, chart-topping Beatles songs that ever made it No.1 in a two-hour concert at The Playhouse on Saturday, April 20. Enter at CITYNEWS.COM.AU CityNews March 28 - April 10 27
arts & entertainment
Daisy’s diaries expose the Roosevelt story “Hyde Park on Hudson” (M) MUCH information in Richard Nelson’s screenplay for Roger Michell’s film came from the correspondence between President Roosevelt (Bill Murray) and his sixth cousin Margaret, aka Daisy (Laura Linney), and her diaries discovered in a suitcase under her bed after her 1991 death in her 100th year. In 1939, the media coverage of the Royal visit was nothing like today’s circus. Coverage of the first visit to the US of a reigning British monarch plays little role in this absorbing, quirky film. Its three main themes are the visit to the Roosevelt summer residence of George VI (Sam West) and Elizabeth (Olivia Colman), the affair between FDR and Daisy and the development of a friendship between two men afflicted with disabilities since childhood – FDR with polio and the king whose stutter had blighted his life (as “The King’s Speech” so eloquently explained). The film’s warm-hearted first half charts the development of the relationship between FDR and Daisy who was, apparently, only one of his three lovers. Another, Marguerite, aka Missy (Elizabeth Marvel) served as his secretary for 21 years. And how did Eleanor (Olivia Williams) deal with such infidelity? She lived in a separate
meet the real impersonator in due course. In the first half of the film we meet Nicholas’ family, cinema Texan lower–class who throughout the film accept the imposter’s authenticity without question, giving strong indications that they consider that forensic crime series house with her women friends. on TV deliver reality. The latter part concentrates on the initial awkwardThe resultant frustration level might strain beyond ness between the folksy Roosevelt household and the breaking point the patience of those watching the film royal visitors. The early-morning drawing room conversa- who know that’s not so. tion between the wily old politician and the king who Be not deterred. The FBI gets on the case. Interpol never wanted the job is heartwarming. And it’s generally sends a private investigator information that has considered to have been influential in forging Anglo/US evaded the FBI. All is revealed. But one mystery remains unity in World War II. unsolved. And that knowledge is worth waiting for. You At Dendy, Palace and Capitol 6 could do worse. The realism in the film’s mixture of fact and acting is more credible than most American TV crime series. “The Imposter” (M) At Capitol 6 BART Layton’s enigmatic documentary/fictive account of the disappearance of 13-year-old Nicholas from his “A Good Day To Die Hard” (M) Texas home and the claim, three years later, that he was living in France takes a long time to sink its teeth into THE end credits proclaim that John Moore’s smashcredibility. ing (in the most correct sense of the word) actioner You don’t need to be a cynic to know that from his first involved 10,000 people who put in 600,000 personappearance, the French claimant is not Nicholas. Adam hours. O’Brien, playing the claimant, narrates the film. We will Somewhere in the accountant’s report, there might be
Dougal Macdonald
a one-line item “Reparation of wrecked vehicles, buildings and public infrastructure” showing expenditure of at least eight significant digits in USD. CGI can fake whatever the budget allows, but here the automotive mayhem on the streets of Budapest and Moscow looks too real for dissimulation! Bruce Willis reprises New York cop John McClane whom he first hurled at us in 1988 single-handedly disposing of a very bad guy, then in three films all pretty much the same. Number five breaks that mould. John McClane Jr (Australian Jai Courtney) needs extraction from a Russian jail together with his co-accused Komarov (Sebastian Koch). So dad goes to surprise the lad. Within less than a day, the McClanes have run a demolition derby through Moscow, been blown up more times than comfortable, dropped from several great heights, dodged small arms fire and kept going with wounds that would have had mere mortals in intensive care. So much action, so many dead bad guys, such a thin dramatic thread leading to a Chernobyl vault full of weapons-grade Uranium 23 5. And that’s about it. The screenplay by Skip Woods doesn’t ask Willis to deliver better acting so he doesn’t. At Dendy, Hoyts and Limelight
Featured artists on the prize trail Helen Musa
SENIOR curator at the CMAG, Deborah Clark, has written in justifiable excitement that two arts in the city of the gallery’s featured artists, G W Bot and Nicola Dickson, are finalists, respectively, in the 2013 Wynne and Sulman Prize exhibitions he calls “the musical holy land” of the US Deep at the Art Gallery of NSW. We note that former South. Curiously, it’s been described as “young Canberran Luke Cornish, better-known as E.L.K., men singing like old men.” At The Street Theatre has also been shortlisted for the Sulman. His 8pm, April 12, bookings to 6247 1223. stencil-art image of Bob Hawke has recently been purchased by the National Portrait Gallery. IN another sentimental journey, Canberra Choral Society will relive great performances from NIDA will be here soon with three contemthe first 25 years of the Albert Hall at the hall, porary plays and a theatre exhibition. The plays 3pm on Sunday, April 7. Music will be drawn from will be, “Play House”, by UK playwright Martin the repertoire of Elisabeth Schwarzkopf, Lotte Crimp, directed by Luke Rogers; Roald Dahl’s Lehmann, Nellie Melba, Joan Sutherland and the “The Witches”, directed by Lucas Jervies and the Vienna Boys’ Choir. Tickets at the door. musical “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change!” directed by former Canberran Derek Walker. So is ART Song Canberra’s next concert will be Sulman Prize shortlister... Luke Cornish, aka it unfortunate that a full production of this play bass-baritone Nicholas Dinopoulos and Andrea E.L.K. is scheduled for Queanbeyan later in April? Not Katz, on piano, who will perform Fauré’s last really, says The Q’s Stephen Pike. It’ll probably act song cycle, Schubert’s “Der Schwanengesang” compete for prizes worth $2000, $1000 and $500. as “a bit of a teaser”. NIDA at Gorman House, April and Poulenc’s “Le Bestiare”. At the Wesley Music Entry to the sections by gold coin donation and 4-6, details and bookings to 132 849 or ticketek. Centre, 20 National Circuit, Forrest, 3pm, on April the open recital ticketed. Inquiries to 6232 7248. com.au 7, tickets available only at the door. THE Friends of the National Film and Sound I BUMPED into Candelo singer-songwriter, THE Canberra String Festival will be at the Archive tell me that on April 5 they’ll be celebratHeath Cullen, a while ago at The Front in Wesley Music Centre, April 12-15 and expects at ing the archive’s 29th birthday and are looking Lyneham. He’ll be here soon to release his new least 160 participants to compete in a range of for NFSA’s “first fleeters” from the olden days, album, “The Still and the Steep”, recorded last sections. The highlight will be the Open Recital 1984. Contact 6231 6849 or sue@archival.com.au year in Los Angeles after a formative trip to what at 7pm on April 14, where six competitors will if you’re one of them.
28 CityNews March 28 - April 10
arts & entertainment
Smoked chicken panini.
Photos by Brent McDonald
Letting the Lava flow PERHAPS I’m becoming a fuddy-duddy, but sometimes I’m baffled by hospitality marketing, like this big message on Lava’s menu: “Because no-one ever got the girl by asking her out for water”.
I do get the “Coffee at its peak” message, though, and coffee is what initially drove me to this relatively new, funky-looking café on Townshend Street, Phillip. Lava is a refreshing change for this part of town – a change, I mean, from the typical take-away places specialising in frozen fish and chips and greasy burgers. I was glad when I discovered it. You enjoy your coffee experience one of three ways at Lava – Espresso (long blacks etc.), Espresso with milk (cappuccino, flat white etc.) and Filter (V6 pour-over, syphon, woodneck and cold brew). I marvel at how sophisticated the coffee industry has become and how
Lincoln Fairleigh demonstrates the art of coffee making.
Wendy Johnson dining
gorgeous looking some manual brewing devices are, although you need a science degree to work them out. Lava has low, block seating out front along the street. The long counter/serving bar inside has, as a backdrop, a massive blackboard decorated with sayings and coffee and food offerings. A communal table is at the front and smaller tables scattered elsewhere. Lava has a warehouse, minimalist feel. Lava is about quickly serving a limited range of food at a decent price, so you can pop in for breakfast, lunch or coffees without fretting over time. The food is simple, healthy and tasty. First up is Bircher or Granola muesli for breakfast ($7) or sour dough with jam, Vegemite or peanut butter ($7). Feel like fruit? Try the sourdough fruit toast ($3.50) or banana bread ($4). The ricotta bagels are served with honey and walnuts ($6). I went for lunch and a toasted panini ($9). Four styles are on the menu, but the chorizo with tomato relish, mozzarella and spinach won. The chorizo was tasty, the relish a bit sweet (for my liking) and my panini came with rocket not spinach. My friend reported that the smoked chicken with red pepper pesto, semi dried tomatoes and mozzarella ($9) hit the spot. Service was quick and with a smile. Two things need adjusting. The first is how staff scccrraaapppe the chairs across the cement floor to reposition them under tables, including right behind you as you are eating (why not lift and place to avoid the annoying noise?). The second is the loud and heavy-going music, which seemed to impress staff more than some customers, including us and a couple we overheard complaining. “Not at all relaxing” for lunchtime, my friend said. Still, Lava is a great spot for a great bit of brekkie or lunch. Same, no doubt, with its sister location in Weston. Lava, 38 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 6285 3614.
CityNews March 28 - April 10 29
Mighty Mitchell / advertising feature
Mitchell with more to offer Sweet destination ADAM’S Patisserie has a large range of breads and cakes, savoury and sweet pastries, biscuits, coffee and hot food with a multicultural twist. “We do a lot of Mediterranean sweets,” says owner Frances Russo. Her husband, Ahmed El Farash, is originally from Egypt, but also spent 10 years in Greece, where he learned to make the local sweet treats. “He does a special custard baklava for example, which is divine, and harissa, which is a traditional Egyptian coconut semolina cake,” says Frances. Open 7.30am to 4pm weekdays and 8am to 2pm Saturdays, you can also find the products at Capital Region Farmer’s Market every Saturday morning at EPIC. Adam’s Patisserie, 2/83 Lysaght Street, Mitchell. Call 6162 2555.
Repairs with pride ROB Cunningham opened Premier Automotive in Mitchell 17 years ago, and in that time the northside commercial district has doubled in size to keep up with the needs of the residential areas around it. “We’ve gone from being a twoman show to employing seven staff
30 CityNews March 28 - April 10
Supported by Gungahlin’s newer suburbs such as Crace and Franklin around it, Mitchell has more to offer than ever before. “CityNews” looks at some of the top businesses operating out of the northside’s commercial hub... now and we’ve really needed to do that to keep up with the demands of the growing Gungahlin area,” Rob says. Premier Automotive boasts a skilled team of qualified mechanics and the latest diagnostic equipment. “We really pride ourselves on providing quality repairs from people you can trust.” Premier Automotive, 5 Winchcombe Court, Mitchell. Call 6242 8450.
goes up, people are looking at motorbikes or scooters because it means free parking, cheap rego and cheap running costs,” he says. The latest addition to Don’s learner-legal range is the new CFMoto 650TK, a comfortable 650cc machine with class-leading power that comes in under $7000 including on-road costs. Moto Central, 12 Sandford Street, Mitchell. Call 6248 0229
Commuters do the maths Awards and accolades MOTO Central has a full-service motorcycle workshop, a wide range of oils, parts and accessories, and lots of tyres for on the road and off, but it specialises in learner-legal motorcycles and scooters. Owner Don Murray says more and more people are learning to ride when they realise they can buy a scooter for not much more than the yearly cost of parking in Civic. “Basically, as the cost of living
CAPITAL Trophies and Sportswear stocks awards, plaques, medals and trophies, as well as embroidered uniforms for sporting teams and businesses. “We specialise in glass, crystal and acrylic corporate awards,” says owner Grant Everson. “We also do a lot of glassware and beer steins, and everything is done in-house.” Services include computerised engraving, laser etching, hand engraving and sublimation prints as well as embroidery and screen printing. The new trophy range comes out in July and Grant says he can also create custom-made trophies. “It’s a one-stop shop and if we don’t have it here, I can source it.” Capital Trophies and Sportswear, Shop 7/101 Lysaght Street, Mitchell ACT 2911. Call 02 6241 6448.
Tiles with flair TILEFLAIR’S owner, Peter Bonelli, is proud to supply quality tiles to a large number of display homes in the ACT and surrounding regions. “We’re a family-owned local business and we have a great range of floor and wall tiles, including ceramics, porcelains, stones and glass,” he says, explaining that the tiles themselves are sourced from all over the world, as well as some that are Australian made. Peter has worked in the local industry for more than 20 years and deals with Canberra’s leading tilers, architects, builders, and interior designers. He says the spacious, modern showroom is also open over the weekend, so busy do-it-yourself renovators can find their own little pieces of “affordable elegance”. Tileflair, 22 Essington Street, Mitchell. Call 6162 3080.
Utes on the move MITCHELL Rent a Ute has provided light commercial vehicles to the Canberra region for the past four years, after Rob Cunningham started the hire company as a side business within Premier Automotive. Rob says strong demand from people moving house or getting some work done in the yard now means his utes and vans are often booked solid by the time Saturday rolls around. “We hire out vehicles for as little as two hours at a time,” he says. “Every weekend our vans and utes are booked out.” Mitchell Rent a Ute, 5 Winchcombe Court, Mitchell. Call 6242 8500.
Auto Italia / April 7
Italian motor style, large and small AUTO Italia comes to the lawns of Old Parliament House on Sunday, April 7, giving Canberrans an unmatched opportunity to get up close to several hundred Italian cars, motorcycles and scooters, from beautifully preserved pieces of history to the latest highend technology. Tony Hanrahan, president of the Italian Cars Association of the ACT, agrees there’s something special about the mixture of art and science that goes into cars made in Italy. “Italian cars are designed with passion and built with style,” says Tony. “They’re designed to look fast, even when they’re standing still.” This year’s event will feature more than the usual number of Lamborghinis, thanks to car clubs around NSW who are keen to help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the powerful and eye-catching supercars. They’ll have to compete against Ferraris and Maseratis in the “Exotic” category, one of 17 that are judged by a vote among the entrants. Auto Italia 2013 will also feature Italian cars that are loved for completely different reasons to their high-powered cousins, including some early examples of the boxy little Alfasud, an early compact car manufactured by Alfa Romeo in partnership with the Italian Government during the ‘70s and ‘80s. “But they’re not as tiny as the Fiat 500, our other featured marque this year,” says Tony, explaining that the original three-metre-long “city car” is very different to its modern remake,
Auto Italia... a free, fun day out whether cars are your thing, or not. which carries the same name. “These cars are pretty rare, but there’s a big group from the clubs in Sydney and they’re bringing down about 15 cars,” he says. “I don’t know of any other event in Australia that would have 15 Fiat 500s in one spot.” With no entry fee and vendors selling food, drinks and coffee, Tony says Auto Italia is a fun day out
whether cars are your thing, or not. “You can walk along and see a Fiat 500 that’s 30 years old, and a few steps further along, you can see a new half-a-million-dollar Ferrari or Lamborghini. There’s literally millions of dollars worth of cars there on the day.” More information at autoitaliacanberra.com
CityNews March 28 - April 10 31
easter
Time of deep tradition IT doesn’t take children many years to start doubting that chocolate eggs are truly being brought to them each year by a magical rabbit. Despite a commendable campaign by Australian con-
32 CityNews March 28 - April 10
servationists to replace it with a native bilby, the Easter Bunny is still going strong, although we rarely stop to think where it comes from or why it is so ingrained in our culture. The Easter Bunny is just one of a collection of traditions and beliefs that have mixed together over centuries to form the modern expression of Easter, a “movable feast” that is not only the second most important date on the Christian calendar, but also a spring festival that we, in the southern hemisphere, celebrate in autumn. Most scholars agree the bunny and the eggs it brings are enduring, ancient symbols of fertility and new life from European cultures, which were carried forward into Christian times, and that the English name “Easter” probably comes from an Anglo-Saxon goddess, Eos-
tre, who was also associated with such things. It should be noted that rabbits are associated with new life because they breed so rapidly – one trait that helps make them a pest in Australia and fuels the bilby-backers’ campaign for the Easter Bunny’s job. In Christianity, of course, Easter is all about remembering the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and the Easter Bunny is not required. Eggs, hard and cold on the outside but harbouring a new life on the inside, are seen as a symbol for the stone tomb where Christ was laid to rest and later emerged, reborn. The yearly retelling of this narrative gives a tangible sense of renewal, hope for the future and a chance to thank God. Whatever your belief, Easter is a great time to spend with family and friends at one of the many events around the city, both church-based and otherwise.
puzzles page Joanne Madeline Moore your week in the stars / April 1 - 7
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
Is a project going pear-shaped? Don’t point the finger at others – with four planets powering through Aries, you have no-one to blame but yourself. Sunday’s Venus/Mars hookup highlights your natural charm and sex appeal. Being pushy is out, and being persuasive is in. So it’s the perfect time to get what you want – in the most diplomatic and delightful way!
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 20)
Get off the comfy couch Taurus! This week’s dynamic stars encourage you to be proudly proactive, as you set goals and then actively pursue them. Not sure how to do that? Rub shoulders with your Aries and Sagittarius friends – they’ll show you how to crank up your motivation and energise your enthusiasm. Sunday is super for a romantic (and passionate) rendezvous.
GEMINI (May 21 – June 21)
With jovial Jupiter jumping through your sign (until June 26), don’t waste time being a bashful Twin. Make sure you explore and experiment – plus be enthusiastic about the opportunities that are around you. Be bold and beautiful as you leap through life with an extra dose of confidence. Draw inspiration from birthday great Emile Zola: “I am here to live out loud.”
CANCER (June 22 – July 22)
With the Sun, Venus, Mars and Uranus all in your career zone, it’s not the time to hole up in your cozy Crab cave. Seize the moment! Lucky (and unexpected) opportunities are around, but you must be quick to grab them or they will pass you by. Avoid getting drawn into petty arguments and power plays mid-week. The weekend is wonderful for socialising and networking.
LEO (July 23 – Aug 22)
You’ll tend to go to extremes this week Lions, as Jupiter and Pluto press your “let’s overdo everything” button. And resist the temptation to be a right royal bossy-boots (especially when you don’t get your way). If you do your fair share of domestic chores, it will keep housemates happy. But – if you don’t pull your weight – then expect some unpleasant consequences.
VIRGO (Aug 23 – Sept 22)
If you’re searching for smart ways to make more money, don’t try to re-invent the wheel – look to successful role-models for novel ideas. But be careful what you say to a stressed relative. Make sure you choose your words wisely! Love and lust are on your mind on Sunday, as Venus and Mars join forces in your intimacy zone. Research and study are also favoured.
LIBRA (Sept 23 – Oct 23)
It’s all about love this week Libra, as Venus and Mars pair up in your partnership zone. If you are attached, plan something suitably romantic for Sunday. Singles – you won’t find your soul mate if you’re sitting at home sobbing (and sulking) about being solo. It’s time to spread your social net far and wide, as you get out there and find the man or woman of your dreams!
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 21)
General knowledge crossword No. 401 3 Which term is descriptive of vigorous Across effort?
1 Name an eight-legged, wingless, predatory arachnid. 8 Which figures have eight angles and eight sides? 9 Name a renowned tennis player, Lleyton... 10 What, in boxing, is a bolo punch? 11 In nautical parlance what describes “to the rear of”? 13 To scatter abroad is to do what? 16 To be perplexed is to be in which sort of a state? 19 What are the items in a sports program? 22 What is a cottage of one storey? 24 Which horse won the first two Melbourne Cups? 25 What is an act of retaliation? 26 When one works dough into a uniform mixture, one does what?
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4 What are circular bandstands known as? 5 Name another term for a footprint. 6 In ancient Greece what were popular political assemblies? 7 What are muzzles also called? 12 Which is one of two children brought forth at a birth? 14 In the US, what do they call the footpath? 15 Name an alternative term for precipitation. 17 What are burdens, or responsibilities? 18 Which other word designates a numerical symbol? 20 What do we call the master of ceremonies? 21 Which Australian river has its mouth at Coolangatta? 23 Name a particular speech defect.
2 What, collectively, is the newspaper medium called? 1
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Sudoku hard No. 100
Solution next edition
Sun square Pluto puts you in a stubborn frame of mind this week Scorpio, and you’ll find the more resistant you are to change, the more exhausted you’ll feel. Saturn is moving slowly through your sign but don’t let that deter you from doing daring and difficult things. Be inspired by feisty birthday great Bette Davis: “The key to life is accepting challenges.”
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 – Dec 21)
The stars favour friendships and hobbies, so it’s a wonderful week to indulge in pleasurable leisure activities with like-minded mates. Attached Archers – with your ruling planet Jupiter moving through your relationship zone (until June 26), aim to be less selfish and more attentive towards your partner. Singles – love is likely with someone from another country or culture.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 19)
Avoid being too brisk and brusque with others on Friday, as your business side goes into overdrive. People respect your professional approach, but they also appreciate the personal touch. The focus is firmly on domestic matters on Sunday, as Venus and Mars help the family pull together in positive and proactive ways. The more support you give loved ones, the better.
AQUARIUS (Jan 20 – Feb 18)
Avant-garde Aquarians love to think about the future, where everything is exciting and new. This week’s stars encourage you to reflect on your personal history, as you use the past to re-shape your present. From Friday onwards, jolly Jupiter invites you to let your hair down and indulge in life’s little luxuries – good food, good wine, good living and good loving.
PISCES (Feb 19 – Mar 20)
Your intuitive self shines brightly on Friday and Saturday, as the Moon meanders through your spirituality zone. Then Venus and Mars unite in your cash zone on Sunday, which stimulates your urge to splurge money on extravagant purchases that you don’t really need. So perhaps it would be best for smart Pisceans to avoid Sunday shopping – both in person and online. Daily astrology updates at www.twitter.com/JoMadelineMoore Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2011
Solutions
Crossword No.400 S C C A
F E U L Y X E S U O H U L A C Q U E R L K M E I E R N O M A D S O U F U N E R A L L A I C A B R I D G E G C E R S P H E R E S
Sudoku med No.100
K R A I N E A C S N D R E S S I B A C O L O G Y A C R I T I C O Y D A A H E V R O N N I I E T R E A D S S E
CityNews March 28 - April 10 33
34 CityNews March 28 - April 10
garden
Made in China and a big hit for centuries everywhere Cedric Bryant gardening
THE outstanding Osmanthus fragrans is a Chinese plant that became an instant hit when introduced to British gardens in 1771 by the famous plant hunter Robert Fortune. This Osmanthus is one of the most popular plants in Chinese gardens due to the delicious perfume of its tiny white flowers that pervade the air for a considerable distance. Even more so, and literally the subject of my adulation, is the variety Osmanthus fragrans aurantiacus with apricot-coloured flowers. Visitors are blown away with its rich fragrance, reaching into every corner of our garden at present. Usually, the first comment is where can we buy one? The Chinese consider this plant important for its multiplicity of uses. For example, its fragrant flowers are used to scent tea, or kept in jars similar to potpourri. The flowers are used to flavour wine, make perfumes and medicines. The bark is used for dye-making and the timber is good for wood carving. In China, its name is Gui meaning “noble” and a boy seen holding a branch represents a “noble son”. Osmanthus fragrans is also a symbol of literary merit and an emblem of studious pursuits. What really puzzles me is that while the straight Osmanthus fragrans is available, O.f. aurantiacus is rarely sold in garden centres? Definitely worth looking for. HERBS have been used for centuries in culinary, medicinal and decorative ways. “Strewing herbs” is an expression not often heard today, but in bygone days, before carpets and floor coverings, these were fragrant herbs literally scattered on floors to ward off unpleasant smells. The obvious
Osmanthus fragrans aurantiacus, with apricot-coloured flowers... visitors are blown away with its rich fragrance, reaching into every corner of our garden, says Cedric. ones are lavender and rosemary. Although about 10 per cent of modern drugs still use herbal derivatives, many of the early medicinal concoctions are now considered useless or even dangerous. I am often asked to include a herb garden in designs, however I prefer to plant herbs at random in garden beds for companion planting and discouraging pests. Herbs conjure up romantic images, none more so than in the writings of William Shakespeare. The fairie kingdom in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a kingdom of flowers. Shakespeare’s plays and poems abound with references to flowers; his language is rich in plant and garden metaphors. Consider The Winter’s Tale: “Rosemary and rue, seemingly and savour all winter long; grace and remembrance to both of you”.
The flowers of Shakespeare are ideal for all gardens for one very good reason – our climate. Most of our plants originate from the hot and dry Mediterranean region. Next week, I will suggest a list of Shakespearean plants suitable to make a corner of the garden a tribute to the Bard. THE Annual Collectors Plant Fair will be held on the weekend of April 13-14. This year more than 50 nurseries will offer many rare and unusual plants for sale, and there will be a program of inspiring speakers. To accommodate the extra nurseries, the fair has moved from Bilpin to the Hawkesbury Race Club, 1 Racecourse Road, Clarendon, NSW. It might be wise to book accommodation and a place at the speaker program. More information at collectorsplantfair.com or call 02 4567 2026.
Cooler work... Cooler days make it pleasant to work in the garden: • Plant Ericas for winter colour, an ideal element for flower arranging. • To keep cut flowers longer – for each half litre of water in the vase add two teaspoons of sugar and half a teaspoon of bleach. • Don’t plant citrus trees in the open ground now. Wait until late spring after the worst frosts are gone. • Too many green tomatoes for chutney? They are a fruit, so try stewing them like plums and add double cream. • Don’t use mushroom compost near acid-loving plants such as azaleas, Daphne or native plants.
Herbs amongst the shrub border.
Give the home a little autumn sparkle LOOKING for easy cleaning tips?
Barb de Corti, CEO of eco-friendly cleaning product manufacturers ENJO Australia, shares her tips for a sparkling home. “Remove all food items from the pantry, plus cutlery and crockery from the cupboards and give those hidden kitchen surfaces a good wipe down,” Barb says. “At the start of each season, I strip the beds, turn the mattresses over, vacuum all surfaces and wash
any mattress protectors and dust mite covers. “To leave the room with a fresh smell minus the nasty chemicals, mix up a spray bottle of water and about 20 drops of your favourite essential oils and spray towards the centre of the room. “Try 10 drops of lavender essential oil, five drops of bergamot essential oil, five drops of clove essential oil and two drops peppermint essential oil with half a cup of water in a spray bottle.” Barb recommends assigning everyone a room
or outdoor space to clean. “If you have teenagers, give them a few days’ warning,” she says. “Anything left on the bedroom floor after three days will go to the rubbish or charity. That will get them motivated!” It’s easy to forget about your outdoor area, Barb says. “Give the barbecue a wipe,” she says. “Even if you haven’t used it, you never know what’s been walking over it.” CityNews March 28 - April 10 35