CityNews 221110

WHEN CANBERRA’S JURY PROBLEMS BECAME ALL TOO CLEAR

GHU SELYB wonders why ACT jury verdicts have to be unanimous.

Kids dodge cars on ‘makeshift’ school crossing NOVEMBER 10, 2022

Everything you need to know about potholes

CLIVE WILLIAMS

Sick of seeing gambling ads on tele? Do this…

MICHAEL MOORE

Clay rolls over after fey racing funding drama

PAUL COSTIGAN

E HW We’reE R allE RA savages UR O Y E NAM atRSheart ? if The Q’s new comedy is right (PS, no food is injured in the show)

DO YOU WANT YOUR SCIATICA SOLVED? Our exercise physiologists and exercise scientist can improve your quality of life.

Sophie Bullock Exercise Physiologist

Blake Dean Exercise Physiologist

Holly Hazelwood Exercise Physiologist

HYDROTHERAPY & EXERCISE CLASSES AVAILABLE

Natasha Perry Exercise Scientist

Call 1800 011 041 | info@arthritisact.org.au | www.arthritisact.org.au

Tis the season to GO BIG at Hang Ups Christmas Emporium Get the BIGGEST Christmas Trees!

••• The BIGGEST Christmas Lighting!

••• And the BIGGEST range of all things Christmas, at the BIGGEST Christmas shop in Canberra!

OPENING HOURS:

Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm Sat: 10am-2pm From November 12 Sat & Sun: 10am-4pm

PH: 6280 0312 • 72 GLADSTONE ST, FYSHWICK (NEXT TO BAGS 2 GO) • ECHRISTMAS.COM.AU

NEWS

Well written, well read

Volume 28, Number: 45 | Phone: 6189 0777

Children dodge cars on ‘makeshift’ school crossing

By Belinda

STRAHORN STUDENTS’ lives are being put at risk by an unsafe crossing at the entrance to the Brindabella Christian College (BCC) car park in Lyneham.

Concerned mother, Kate Bradney, said children walking or riding to and from school are forced to cross over the Brigalow Street entrance to the car park.

Bradney – who’s daughter attends Lyneham Primary School – said children’s safety is being compromised because of the high volume of cars coming and going into the car park at school drop-off and pick-up times.

“Brigalow Street is very busy and, to enter this car park, cars drive over the footpath, which is heavily used by young kids who are walking and cycling to school,” she said.

While pedestrian safety is a concern for BCC students its greatest impact is on the Lyneham Primary School children.

In an attempt to improve pedestrian safety, a “makeshift” crossing has been installed at the car park entrance which Bradney feels isn’t adequate.

“Kids being kids, dart across the

Lyneham Primary School children cross the Brigalow Street entrance to Brindabella Christian College car park. Photos: Kate Bradney makeshift crossing,” she said.

“When cars queue across the footpath at the entranceway to the car park the kids weave through the cars to get to school.

“It’s an accident waiting to happen.”

Bradney has collected the signatures of 600 local residents and parents petitioning the ACT government to conduct a transport impact assessment of the car park development.

She was prompted to take action after witnessing some near misses at the site.

“At the start of this year I saw a really goosebump-inducing, near miss where a four-wheel-drive was entering the car park at the same time that a kid was riding across the path and neither

of them saw each other,” she said.

“It was a very close call and it highlighted how much of an issue safety is at this site…someone could die here.”

Bradney said the construction of a kiss-and-drop style car park is her favoured solution to the problem.

“It’s like a modest drop off bay with the footpath winding around,” she said.

“It would make it a lot safer for kids who are walking and cycling on the Brigalow Street footpath because it would remove the dangerous conflict between cars and kids.”

She has also been advised that the ACT government is considering constructing a third pedestrian crossing on Brigalow Street between Lyneham

Professional, fun tuition in Ballroom Dancing

SOCIAL DANCE

Every Monday Night 7.30pm to 10pm All Classes are now held at: The Crystal Ballroom Canberra 6/38 Reed Street Nth, Greenway, Tuggeranong

ENJOY YOURSELF IN FUN AND RELA A XED SOCIAL ENVIRONMEN T

Primary School and the BCC. “That will help some children avoid the dangerous car park entry, but it won’t help others coming from the area of the Axis apartments where a lot of kids live,” Bradney said.

Bradney points to the death of a pedestrian on Brigalow Street earlier this year, to highlight the urgency of addressing the car park issue before a child is lost to a tragic accident.

“The accident was near the shops, just a few hundred metres up from the dangerous crossing,” she said.

“It was an elderly man that died – he was crossing the street – I was a few cars back when it happened, it was really sad.”

She also stressed that Lyneham is in the commuter belt of Canberra’s CBD with a lot of people choosing to cycle and walk from their homes to work.

“We are one of the highest commuting suburbs to work and school, people are out and about on bikes and walking all the time… Brigalow Street is dangerous, it’s congested and cars go really fast.”

A spokesperson said the ACT government is intending to improve safety at the carpark entry point at BCC by undertaking the following measures; “applying a painted pedestrian priority treatment that is consistent with ACT government standards and realignment of the footpath to shorten the crossing distance.”

Other measures the government is considering are footpath connections along Brigalow Street, and an additional crossing on Brigalow Street.

The spokesperson said the government was working with the BCC “to promote safe behaviour and to remind motorists to give way to pedestrians on the footpath”.

Bradney said she has invested a great deal of time and effort in the issue.

She is driven by her conscience and won’t rest until something is done to address the safety issue at the car park.

“I never intended to become so invested in this,” Bradney said.

“I just don’t want to see a kid die here and feel as if I didn’t do enough.”

Have you considered a pre-arranged funeral?

Take the burden off your loved ones and pre-arrange your funeral.

Pay today’s prices for the funeral you want, with a personalised payment plan.

Dale’s Ballroom Dancing Phone: 0407 066 110 | Email: dale_harris@bigpond.com | Web: dalesballroomdancing.com | Principal: Dale Harris

A neurodiversity inclusive sports day for 6 to 12 year olds

With 32 years experience, William Cole Funerals provide excellence in funeral service.

Saturday 26 November 9am–12pm / Register your interest Tennis ACT 1 Riggall Place, Lyneham

02 6253 3655 williamcolefunerals.com.au | 60 Nettlefold Street, Belconnen, ACT CityNews November 10-16, 2022 3

SEVEN DAYS

‘Mother’ of tram kicks in millions more for tracks SO, we asked the Minister for Finance if she’d seen the business case for Light Rail Stage 2A before doling out $85.9 million to it in the recent federal Budget. You’d think, right?

This is the promised money the ACT government has snaffled from three major road projects in the south and tossed it into the black hole that is building 1.7 kilometres of light-rail track and three new stations – City West, City South and Commonwealth Park.

It is estimated (raise eyebrows here) to cost $265 million, will start in January 2024 and finish two years later. What stops tightlipped Transport Minister Chris Steel from sharing this publicly available information just plays into the furtive way the ACT government manages the excesses of light rail. Silence.

So we asked Steel: “In light of the ACT’s decade-high road toll, is now an appropriate time to turn down or redirect funding for three major road upgrades?” Silence.

Astonishingly, he subsequently disowned the road funding, claiming the south-west corridor upgrade ($50.9 million), the Kings Highway corridor ($30 million) and the Boboyan Road upgrade ($5 million) amounted to pork-barrelling.

“It had literally no substance, it was all pork,” Steel said, which is a bit rich coming from the team that won’t show you the shaky business case for Light Rail Stage 2A. Which gets us back to former chief minis-

ter Katy Gallagher, ostensibly the “mother” of the tram, who should have seen it. I’m also given to muse whether, as federal finance minister, if she isn’t a little bit compromised by being seen to be publicly piling cash into this project.

It was she who, in 2014, famously “drew a line in the sand” on Stage 1 to Gungahlin, saying cabinet would not support a cost substantially beyond $614 million.

The reportage of the day makes hilarious reading as her government virtuously huffs and puffs about controlling the costs of light rail.

In ruling out a “blank cheque”, she’s quoted as saying: ‘’We’re going to be sensible with this project, we’re not going to be silly.”

However, in a 2016 report, then auditorgeneral Maxine Cooper found the nominal cost would be as much as $1.78 billion over the project’s 20-year lifespan. She also urged caution against claims the project would deliver $198 million in wider economic benefits.

Now as federal Finance Minister, Katy responded to our business case question with uncharacteristic avoidance and waffle, which I will spare you. But she did say: “It was clear that the infrastructure projects that were announced by former Senator Seselja had little evidence to show that they stacked up or no supportive business case that demonstrated good return on investment”.

They’re my italics, but it would be lovely to know what she thinks constitutes “a good

return on investment” and how it might relate to Stage 2A. Back to the minister: “We consulted with the ACT government, which made clear that the priority project for the ACT was Stage 2A of the light rail project and that is why we have redirected funding in this Budget.

“Canberrans rightly expect that their taxpayer money will be spent with the best bang for buck and deliver the best outcome for our city, and that is the approach that they will get from the Albanese Labor government.”

Yes, yes, but did you actually sight the supporting business case? Katy, hello?

Silence.

Pretty well all we, the great unwashed, know is what ACT auditor-general Michael Harris says in his damning 2021 report, “Canberra Light Rail Stage 2A: Economic Analysis”, that its cost to Commonwealth Park may have been underestimated and the project’s economic benefits overstated.

Imagine that.

In urging Major Projects Canberra to revisit the assumptions underpinning the economic analysis, he recommended they make publicly available the revised and updated economic analysis in an updated Stage 2A business case. If they won’t show Katy, what hope have taxpayers got?

SYMONDS BEETHOVEN “This concert was high precision from the first note to the last, and quite extraordinary to witness.…this was artistry of the very highest calibre.”—InReview

THE corks would have been poppin’ in Tramalot Castle on London Circuit to the news that brave Emma Campbell was stepping down in January as CEO of the ACT Council of Social Service.

She has been an irrepressible thorn in the side of this mean and heartless government, challenging it constantly on homelessness, poverty and social housing.

My snouts say the fix was in and constituent members of the peak ACTCOSS body were getting weak-kneed at suggestions of, say, funding cuts if they didn’t make changes. True or not, Campbell’s done a wonderful job of constantly shaming the government on behalf of Canberra’s disadvantaged. Another deck cleared for the 2024 election, comrades?

Ian Meikle is the editor of “CityNews” and can be heard with Rod Henshaw on the “CityNews Sunday Roast” news and interview program, 2CC, 9am-noon. There are more of his columns on citynews.com.au

SUN 20 NOV, 2PM NATIONAL GALLERY CANBERRA

—The Age

BOOK NOW 4 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

asq.com.au

WHIMSY

Everything you need to know about potholes THERE are three topics dear to the hearts of Canberra’s letter writers: potholes, long grass and Barr’s tram. As a public service, I thought I would look into potholes, not literally, but in a research sense.

Why do we call them potholes? One explanation is that in medieval times, potters would dig into the deep ruts in unpaved roads to reach the clay deposits underneath. They used the clay to make clay pots; hence holes in the road became known as “potholes”.

Potholes in paved roads occur when water gets into the underlying structure of the road. Traffic passing over the affected area fatigues the destabilised asphalt surface and continual traffic action removes both the asphalt and underlying structure to create a hole in the road. Heavy rain, freezing and thawing also have destructive effects.

Five factors that make roads susceptible to potholing are: insufficient pavement thickness for heavy vehicles; poor quality initial construction; inadequate drainage; failures at road joints or inserts, and; defects and cracks left untreated.

La Niña’s heavy and persistent rainfall has been particularly destructive. About 8000 potholes have

Potholes, potholes everywhere. been repaired in Canberra in the past year; a normal year would see around 3000 repaired.

Depressions and “crocodile cracking” of the asphalt are signs of a weakened substructure. An early response to road cracking prevents further water penetration into the pavement substructure. According to the US Federal Highway Administration, 70 per cent of untreated cracks become potholes within three years.

If Canberra potholes become large enough to cause damage to tyres, wheels, and vehicle suspensions, the ACT government may be liable to pay

for the damage. (It has reportedly paid out at least $43,000 this year to settle more than 50 pothole damage claims.)

Serious road accidents can be a consequence of potholes, especially on roads where vehicle speeds are higher. Bike riders and motorcyclists are most at risk.

Pothole patching may be either temporary or permanent.

Temporary patching is often done as a quick response to public demands for prominent potholes to be fixed. A quick-fix by sub-contractors usually involves cold-mix asphalt patching of

the “round” pothole to temporarily restore the pavement until a more permanent repair can be undertaken.

Permanent patching requires removal of water and debris from the pothole and the use of hot-mix asphalt above new dry base materials. A bestpractice repair requires a bituminous adhesive coat in the dry open cavity before bedding down the new patch material. The final step is machinecompacting the patched area. A thorough job results in a square or oblong-shaped repaired area.

Potholes have become part of popular culture.

The Beatles song “A Day in the Life” mentions potholes. John Lennon was inspired by a news brief that stated: “There are 4000 holes in the road in Blackburn, Lancashire, or one twenty-sixth of a hole per person, according to a council survey. If Blackburn is typical, there are two million holes in Britain’s roads and 300,000 in London.”

Lennon wrote: I read the news today, oh boy Four thousand holes in Blackburn, Lancashire And though the holes were rather small

They had to count them all Now they know how many holes it takes to fill the Albert Hall In the “Seinfeld” episode “The Pothole”, George discovers he has lost his keys, including a commemorative Phil Rizzuto keychain that says “Holy Cow” when activated.

He retraces his steps and returns to a street where he had jumped over a pothole, which is now filled with asphalt. Whenever a car runs over the patch, “Holy Cow” is heard through the asphalt.

Just a brief comment on the other two banes of letter writers. Allowing grass to grow naturally to create meadowland is now considered to be environmentally desirable, so perhaps we should learn to enjoy it.

As for the Woden tram, it’s difficult to come up with a reason to support it; improving the rail link to Sydney should be a much higher priority.

Clive Williams is a Canberra columnist.

DESIGN • CONSTRUCTION • PROJECT MANAGEMENT • • • • • •

Residential Commercial Industrial Design & Construction Project Management ‘In House’ Joinery Workshop

QUALITY WORK FOR OVER 39 YEARS!

ACT LICENSE NUMBER: 2012505 NSW LICENSE NUMBER: 282102C

… BY BORDEAUX

Showroom Hours: Mon-Fri: 9.00am to 4.00pm, Sat: 9.00am to 12pm, or by appointment

CALL 6299 4642 TODAY FOR AN OBLIGATION FREE QUOTE

8 Aurora Place, Queanbeyan

•

bordeauxbcm.com.au

BordeauxBCM

BordeauxBCM CityNews November 10-16, 2022 5

POLITICS / gambling advertising

Sick of seeing gambling ads on the tele? Do this…

SICK of seeing gambling advertisements on television and in your social media? Want to take some action?

Although it might be last minute, it could be worth getting a submission into the House of Representatives Committee on online gambling and its impacts on those experiencing gambling harm before submissions close on Friday (November 11).

A faster and simpler way to have your voice heard is to support the community petition being conducted on her website by Labor MLA Dr Marisa Paterson. The “Bets off. Game on – Reclaim the Game” petition is designed to add a strong public voice to her submission to the federal inquiry.

Dr Paterson argues: “It is time to reclaim our sport from the hands of gambling corporations” and suggests that “sports are at the heart of our nation and are a core part of the Australian identity”.

“There is a dark side to our sport, as we settle into the footy finals – advertisements bombard us in attempts to persuade us that we may enjoy the game more if we have money on it”.

The MLA is not on her own. There are already a number of submissions on the committee’s website.

The Australia Institute’s Bill

As we settle into the footy finals – advertisements bombard us in attempts to persuade us that we may enjoy the game more if we have money on it,” MLA Marisa Paterson tells MICHAEL MOORE.

Marisa Paterson… “It is time to reclaim our sport from the hands of gambling corporations.”

Browne, for example, argues: “There is broad, popular support for banning gambling advertising on TV, which would help limit children’s exposure”.

Similarly, David Warr, the CEO of Gamblock, recommends to the committee that “gambling help bodies have fully transparent disclosure of their funding sources”.

Before entering politics, Dr Paterson was director of the Centre for Gambling Research at the ANU. As a researcher in this area she is in a strong position to present strong evidence before calling on ACT residents to support the petition.

At the time of writing, there were

around a thousand signatures. It should be more.

The statistics she quotes in attempting to get signatories to her petition include that more than 1.4 million Australians are harmed by gambling, gambling advertisements target our children and 35 per cent of people who bet online on sports or special events experience harm from gambling.

These sorts of statistics should make us all stand up and listen.

Advertising of online gambling saturates our television. According to the Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation, “in 2021, 148 gambling ads were broadcast on free-to-air during primetime family viewing hours of 6pm-8.30pm every weeknight”.

I asked Dr Paterson why she is collecting signatures on a federal issue when she was elected as a member of the ACT Legislative Assembly. I also asked if she will just be presenting

the outcome of the petition to the members of the House of Representatives Committee.

She sees the issue as affecting people in the ACT as well as across Australia and the petition will help inform part of her submission to the committee. However, the submission will largely focus on advertising.

She told me: “The petition will form part of the submission, but I will further elaborate regarding the impact on children in particular and the general harms associated with gambling.

“Once it was just gambling on sports and now it is embedded in sport. As an example, you can see gambling advertisements on jerseys and on-ground advertising”.

Paterson then pointed to the “Pointsbet Stadium” – the home of the Cronulla Sharks. This is the club that has the support of former Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

However, according to the ABC, of the $18 million of gambling revenue received by political parties in recent years, “more than three-quarters flowed to the ALP and its investment vehicle, the 1973 Foundation Pty Ltd”.

The article added that in the ACT, “in

the decade to June 2020, gamblingrelated groups poured some $6.5 million into party coffers”.

Paterson argues that this support for Labor in the ACT has changed in the last half decade.

When asked about contributions of gambling companies to deal with the harms they facilitate, she expressed real doubts that contributions could go anywhere near the harm created by this industry.

The issues around gambling are complex. Using the “gamble responsibly” tagline has already been ditched

by Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth in a recent announcement.

It will be replaced with seven new options that she says have been chosen after “extensive research”. Hopefully, this is just a first step.

Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health. He has been a political columnist with “CityNews” since 2006.

FOR ALL YOUR LEGAL NEEDS Dedication to the community since 1861 Family Law Estates and Probate Wills and Powers of Attorney Criminal Law Workplace injuries

Please phone us for an appointment CANBERRA CITY

QUEANBEYAN

6230 1999

6299 3999

6 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

bdn.com.au

CANBERRA PCYC

advertising feature

Dare you take a plunge down the Lovett Tower?

Thoroughbred Park… funding safe from Greens’ fey attack.

Photo: Paul Costigan

CANBERRA MATTERS

Clay rolls over after fey racing funding drama MURKY and tricky would be the polite words to describe what happened with the ACT Greens’ motion in the Legislative Assembly to phase out funding for the Canberra Racing Club – $41 million over five years.

chief minister as having no conflicts.

Apparently, these three left meetings when government business was discussed. That would mean many exits given the dealings of the racing club. On another governance level, if a board member cannot fully perform their duties, they should think twice about being considered for the board.

The October 13 motion was voted down by When the ACT Greens made merry through the combined forces of Labor and the Liberals. media statements of their objections to this There are many bits to this puzzle. Shane give-away, they knew of the connections of the Rattenbury is the leader of the ACT Greens board directly to the chief minister. Add to and Gaming Minister (not Gambling) and is that, they anticipated the combined vote to the in the government’s cabinet where budgetary Liberals and Labor. decisions are made.

There was little chance of success of the moGreens backbencher Jo Clay led the charge tion to phase out the gift of taxpayers’ money to with the backing of the ACT Greens, including Canberra Racing. This was an exercise of the its leader, to phase out the Budget allocation to ACT Greens wanting to be seen to be different Canberra Racing over five years. to their tarnished Greenslabor profile. It was Among other reasons, Clay argued that: political – an attention-seeking exercise.

“In 2013 the Independent Competition and In response to Clay pushing on how Regulatory Commission said the Canberra Racing should be industry should be self-sufficient. self-sufficient, she accepted Greens MLA Jo that the chief minister said “It is not the job of the government to prop up a failing would happen as soon as Clay accepts that yet this business model indefinitely, parthe club sells some of its land another local club – for development. ticularly one that delivers such a questionable public benefit.”

She therefore accepts that the Canberra Racing To make life interesting, the Canberra Racing will sell off Club – is selling off ACT Greens knew that Labor land it no longer needs, that land that should was totally committed to the these are concessional leases funds going to racing. They also (probably handed over for come back to the knew that Liberal Mark Parton, nothing originally), and that community for other with the backing of his party, the chief minister approves uses… Clay and the of this change of lease and was not only in favour of the funding allocation, but would development – before a DA is ACT Greens seem probably like to increase it. and considered. not to care that this lodged Clay had it confirmed by She accepts that yet another Treasury that the government happens often and local club is selling off land collects about $250,000 in wagershould come back to the that the ratepayers that ing tax on ACT horse racing a community for other uses. Clay are the losers”. year. Yet her government hands and the ACT Greens seem not them $8 million annually. to care that this happens often She also responded to criticisms that her and that the ratepayers are the losers. proposal would affect jobs. She said annual This sad and complex tale is about connecsalaries totalled $1.675 million, a quarter of the tions and the way business is conducted within government’s gift. It is not about jobs. the Greenslabor coalition. It is very much about Based on those figures and with all the how this coalition of convenience has comprogambling and sponsorships, they should be mised what the ACT Greens might have valued self-sufficient. Curious how the dirty word not too many years ago. They do not hold true “gambling” rarely is mentioned in this debate. to such values today.

The board of the Canberra Racing Club has some interesting members. There’s the head Paul Costigan is a comof the ACT Property Group (answerable to the mentator on cultural and chief minister), plus the chief (now resigned) urban matters. There are and a senior manager of ACT Major Projects more of his columns at (answerable to the chief minister). Their citynews.com.au combined presence had been cleared by the

That’s the exciting challenge from the PCYC as the community organisation launches a fundraising weekend of activities and Ferraris.

CANBERRA Police Community Youth Club (PCYC) will ask people to “Dare to Plunge” as they abseil, zipline or stair climb Lovett Tower in Woden, as part of the two-day Festival of Ferraris, all raising funds for the community organisation.

Cheryl O’Donnell, CEO of Canberra PCYC, says the fundraiser will be the first time people can have the chance to zipline off the Lovett Tower skyscraper.

To abseil or zipline, Cheryl says that participants will need to raise at least $850 as a donation to the PCYC. “The first 20 people to raise $1200 will get to do both abseiling and zip lining!” says Cheryl.

For those wanting to keep their feet on the ground, on Saturday, December 3, there will be family entertainment, displays from the ESA and the Police, food stalls and live music.

On the Sunday, there will be 75 Ferraris on display as well as a concert with award-winning artist Paul Costa.

“Canberra PCYC provides intensive support to children and adults who suffer from trauma-related issues,” says Cheryl.

Paul Costa… award-winning singer performing at the PCYC concert.

“We also provide support to young people and adults with disabilities. Our programs are highly sought after but, we have been doing it tough over the past few years due to covid and need the community’s help,” says Cheryl.

“Every dollar raised goes directly back into programs that are making a difference to the lives of so many. I encourage people to get behind this action-packed event.”

Canberra PCYC “Dare to Plunge” & Festival of Ferraris, December 2-4, Lovett Tower, Woden. To register and start fundraising, visit mycause.com.au/events/daretoplunge

CityNews November 10-16, 2022 7

POLITICS / The Second Convict Age

Why no local incarceration numbers, Dr Leigh?

IT was pleasing to see Dr Andrew Leigh, the federal member for Fenner, speaking up recently about the staggering increase in incarceration rates in Australia over the last decade or so.

His comments were contained in an address he delivered on October 31 at the opening of an Australian Institute of Criminology Conference here in Canberra.

Dr Leigh is indisputably one of the most highly educated and intellectually gifted and experienced members of the Albanese government. I have known him for some time and indeed voted for him when he first sought pre-selection as an ALP candidate for the House of Representatives.

While he has been an active and engaged local member, I am frustrated, as I am sure he must be, that after more than a decade in the job he is an assistant minister only and then for Competition and Charities.

Unfortunately, as he and I and every member of the ALP in Canberra knows, he is doomed to endure that circumstance while ever he stubbornly refuses to join a faction. But I digress. Internal ALP factional machinations and the stultifying impact they have on the preselection or advancement of quality candidates is a story for another day.

Central to Dr Leigh’s conference speech was the outcome of research he published in 2020 about the increasing rate of incarceration in Australia. He described the phenomenon as “The Second Convict Age”. This is some of what Dr Leigh’s research revealed: In 1985, the incarceration rate in Australia was 96 prisoners per 100,000 adults. In 2020, the incarceration rate was 202 prisoners per 100,000 adults.

The incarceration rate has more than doubled. Yet this is not because Australians have become twice as likely to commit serious crimes. In fact, the reverse is true. The crime rate in Australia for most categories of crime has been falling since the mid-’80s.

Dr Leigh also noted that excessive incarceration particularly affects First Nations people and went on to say: “The indigenous incarceration rate is now more than twice as high as when the 1991 Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody report was delivered.

“In WA, the indigenous incarceration rate exceeds 3.5 per cent of adults, meaning that more than one in 30 indigenous West Australian adults are currently behind bars.

“Based on available data, incarceration rates for indigenous Australians are higher than for African Americans… and indigenous

As an ACT parliamentarian delivering a speech in the ACT, it may have been more apt for Dr Leigh to reflect on the ACT’s record in relation to the incarceration of Aboriginal peoples rather than that of WA. people in Canada, NZ and the US.” As I said, I am particularly pleased that Dr Leigh has drawn attention to these matters. It is a subject I’ve regularly sought to draw attention over a number of years. Indeed, I consider the rate of incarceration of Aboriginal peoples in Australia as perhaps the largest blot on us as a nation and a challenge to our perception of ourselves as a fair, just, egalitarian and compassionate country.

However, as an ACT parliamentarian delivering a speech in the ACT, it may have been more apt for Dr Leigh to reflect on the ACT’s record in relation to the incarceration of Aboriginal peoples rather than that of WA. In which case, some of what Dr Leigh would have reported is that in 2020 the crude rate of imprisonment of Aboriginal women in Canberra was 632.7 compared to a non-indigenous rate of 9.4. meaning that the ratio of Aboriginal to non-Aboriginal women

We don’t just endeavour, we do!

Carpets ∙ Rugs ∙ Vinyl ∙ Timber ∙ Laminates

FILL IN THE BLANK What floor covering makes your house a home?

Phone 6280 6132 endeavourcarpets.com.au Cnr Newcastle & Isa Streets, Fyshwick

8 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

incarcerated was 67.3, the highest in Australia and more than three times higher than the average ratio across all states and territories, which was 21.4.

He would also have noted that while making up 1.95 per cent of the ACT population, Aboriginal peoples constituted, on average, 23 per cent of detainees imprisoned in the AMC and further the ACT, in the preceding decade, had by far the highest increase in indigenous incarceration in Australia. The increase in the ACT was 279 per cent which was five times higher than the national increase of 59 per cent.

Notably the Productivity Commission has also reported in each of the last two years, following the publication by Dr Leigh of his research, that the ACT has supplanted WA as the jurisdiction with the highest rate ratio of indigenous incarceration in Australia.

Alarmingly the 10-year data in relation to the proportion of admissions of members of the ACT’s Aboriginal community to the justice system reveal an increasing trend with an annual increase of 5.7 per cent opposed to an increase of 2.9 per cent in non-indigenous admissions.

Capping off the distressing outcomes experienced by the Aboriginal community of Canberra in relation to contact with the criminal justice system the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ most recent report on rates of recidivism reveals that 94 per cent of Aboriginal detainees at the AMC have a prior conviction.

I, for one, would be very interested in learning whether Dr Leigh has explored the possible reasons that the ACT, a largely middle-class, educated and proudly progressive community with the self-declared most progressive government in Australia, locks up Aboriginal peoples, both men and women, at a higher rate than possibly any other place not just in Australia but in the world.

Jon Stanhope was ACT chief minister from 2001 to 2011 and the only chief minister to have governed with a majority in the Assembly. Read more of his columns on citynews.com.au

Commercial and Residential Conveyancing for ACT & NSW

These services include: • Off the Plan Purchases

• Business Franchising

• Commercial Leasing

• Retirement village entry & exit

• Business Succession Planning

• Aged care entry

For successful results in a cost effective manner call 6281 0999 or email kjblaw@kjblaw.com.au Ground Floor, 10 Corinna Street, Woden

BRIEFLY How change has been held back JOURNALIST Amy Remeikis has titled her Dymphna Clark Lecture, “The Politics of Civility”. She says the politics of civility are based on the premise that to be heard, you must be polite and follow the rules: “But that’s never how we have created change. It’s how we’ve held it back.”

The lecture, hosted by Manning Clark House Inc, is at the Cinema, Kambri Cultural Precinct, ANU, 6pm, November 15. There will be a Q&A session following the address and light refreshments.

General admission is $30, concession $25.

Book via trybooking.com

Committee for new club RICHARD Buker, from the Horticultural Society, is the guest speaker at the next meeting of the Yerrabi VIEW Club. Before then, the new club will elect its committee. The meeting will be held at Eastlake Gungahlin from 11.15am, November 17.

Interested ladies are welcome. RSVP to 0419 698091 or dotric65@gmail.com by November 14.

Think about Christmas IT’S time to start thinking about Christmas, say the Relay for Life Team, the Bold Bandannas, who will be selling home-made puddings, hampers, shortbread and rum balls at their next charity stall at the Belconnen Fruit and Vegetable Markets, 8am-5pm, November 19. Funds raised go to the Cancer Council, ACT.

Contemporary Australian cuisine featuring a fusion of flavours and the freshest local produce.

Serving Wheeler’s own Merimbula Lake oysters.

An extensive hand-picked beverage menu.

Fresh seafood to-go, delicious takeaway, all-day coffee & cake.

Takeaway Shop & Café 10am til 6pm | 7 days

Seafood Restaurant Lunch & Dinner | Wed – Mon

Your destination for the finest oysters and distinctive Sapphire Coast dining

162 Arthur Kaine Drive, Pambula | 6495 6330 | Book online www.wheelersoysters.com.au CityNews November 10-16, 2022 9

LEGAL OPINION / jury trials

Avoidable jury problems become all too clear AFTER the jury was discharged in the Lehrmann trial some key problems in our ACT approach to jury trials are now all too clear.

We can disagree about their relative priorities on a list of “must fix”, but their being on that list is certain.

We should be thankful that a court officer found the offending article in the jury room of the Lehrmann trial before there was a jury verdict.

Had there been a verdict, the required follow up from the “afterthe-event” discovery is tedious, time consuming, expensive and of uncertain result.

The trial judge told the jurors some 17 times to keep to the evidence given in the courtroom. One or more didn’t.

Are you surprised?

We want intelligent, focused jurors, but the court system wants to treat them like sheep. Telling people not to do something that they want to do is a waste of time. When the people can’t change, the system is the problem. It needs to change.

There is a related glaring contradiction. Appellate courts routinely assert that jurors follow the instructions given by trial judges. There is no good evidence to support this claim, but it’s trotted out repeatedly.

This case provides 17 disproving

I have never found that one person who is knowledgeable in the law is a better judge of evidence than a dozen fellow citizens working together. instances, but woe betide the eager advocate who tries to mention that inconvenient truth on an appeal.

Once upon a time, jurors could be asked about what happened in the jury room. The system survived.

Then, in response to a very few instances of media nonsense, our politicians chose to outlaw all such useful information.

Why is it useful? Suppose that we could be told that the jury was split 11 to 1 and which way that split went.

Such information would be useful when the prosecution decides if there should be another trial. The same information, if there is to be another trial, will help the defence team decide if the accused needs to give evidence or not.

The problem of an 11-to-1, or even a 10-to-2, split has been solved elsewhere in Australia by allowing such a verdict, instead of requiring 12 united voices.

There’s nothing magical about 12;

it’s just an historical artefact. But not in the ACT, where we can’t even know the numbers on each side. Wilful ignorance does not inspire confidence.

Let’s turn to the cost of this aborted trial. Twelve days of hearing, 29 inconvenienced witnesses, extra jurors, lawyers on both sides, court staff – the whole lot thrown away.

That’s our money, taxpayers’ funds.

If Mr Lehrmann was not on Legal Aid then there’s at least a new small car in his money up the chimney, with nothing to show for it.

The end of this trial was not caused

by Mr Lehrmann or his lawyers.

Outside the ACT there are laws which would give Mr Lehrmann at least some contribution from public funds towards his expenses, but not here.

That is so unfair.

While on the topic of unfairness, with the prospect of a February retrial, how many readers know that Ms Higgins will not give evidence again?

The new jury will get to see only the audio-visual record of all her evidence.

Politicians decided it would be unfair to require victims to give evidence a second time. Note the assumption that the complainant is a victim – which is the issue upon which the Lehrmann/Higgins trial turned: she says there was sex. He says there was none.

No such generosity is given to the accused. Many accused in Australian sexual offence trials are found “not guilty”, but no one gives a damn about the stress imposed upon them by unsubstantiated or fabricated complaint, be it for one trial or one or more retrials. Mr Lehrmann, be he innocent or guilty, has many stressful nights ahead.

There is a related problem here in the ACT. If between now and the new trial the defence were to come across a gold nugget of evidence that they would like to question Ms Higgins about, they will likely be refused permission to have her recalled.

The threshold tests for recalling a complainant are deliberately skewed to prevent such new questioning.

For example, here in the ACT clear

evidence of destruction of evidence followed by lying to police and to a trial court, is not enough to have a complainant brought back to court.

All of these problems could be fixed if there was a will by politicians and lawyers to address them purposefully. I see no signs of relevant “let’s improve our jury trials” activity. The chances of any such change before a new trial in the Lehrmann matter are nil.

Please do not think that the writer is against jury trials. There are some people who argue we should replace our jury trials with judge-alone trials. I am not one of them.

I have never found that one person who is knowledgeable in the law is a better judge of evidence than a dozen fellow citizens working together.

Hugh Selby is a recently retired barrister who enjoyed appearing in criminal jury trials and teaching about them.

QUALITY AUSTRALIAN HEMP PRODUCTS Join us for beat-driven, muscle burning, total body sculpting reformer pilates. Our fast-paced, 40-minute science-based workouts will keep you challenged mentally and physically. EVERY, SINGLE, TIME.

GET STARTED WITH 6 CLASSES FOR $60* BRADDON *

GUNGAHLIN

MANUKA

T&C’s Apply. Ask instore for full conditions.

1/4 Page Horizontal (260mmx71mm)

Join us for beat-driven, muscle burning, total body sculpting reformer pilates. Our fast-paced, 40-minute science-based workouts will keep you challenged mentally and physically. EVERY, SINGLE, TIME.

GET STARTED WITH 6 CLASSES FOR $60* HEMP BRADDON *

10 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

zontal (260mmx71mm)

GUNGAHLIN T&C’s Apply. Ask instore for full conditions.

MANUKA

Visit us today in store or online for everything HEMP! Opening hours: Monday-Friday 10am-4pm Saturday 10am-3pm

Ph: 0431 318 898 | 84 Wollongong St, Fyshwick | southpacifichemp.com.au |

Supporting Live Free Local Music for over 20 Years!

Live music 6 nights a week from Irish Jam on both Sundays and Tuesdays with solos, Duos and Bands on the other nights

Catch up with friends in the City Walk Beer Garden

Supporting Mens Health through Movember 2022 KING O’MALLEY’S 131 CITY WALK, CANBERRA CITY | WWW.KINGOMALLEYS.COM.AU | 6257 0111 Australian Hotels Association – Best Bistro Award | Outstanding Community Service & Achievement Award | Restaurant & Catering Association Award Winner

LETTERS / 1

Let loose to: editor@citynews.com.au

Oppose ‘detrimental’ spending and Barr’s hypocrisy BEFORE the October 22 Federal Budget, apparently Andrew Barr proposed that an additional Medicare levy be imposed on high-income earners to provide additional funding for health services (principally hospitals) for all states/territories.

The absolute hypocrisy of him to propose this given that we all know where (as confirmed by Batman and Robin) all proposed funding for Canberra hospitals has been redirected to, is beyond the pale.

Additionally, you will have no doubt noticed in the wash up of this federal Budget in respect of new infrastructure funding for the ACT, the feds funded $83.5m for the ACT. According to Infrastructure Australia, this funding was initially allocated by IA to three key road projects in Canberra’s south.

However, the ACT government indicated its first priority was funding for light rail phase 2A. Coincidentally, the final outcome was funding of $83.5m for light rail. The ACT auditor-general’s report on this project was damning, but how much more discretionary funding might be reallocated to this phase, let alone phase 2B (extension to Woden).

As a former senior public official, I am appalled at this approach and I only wish that more of the community would start to openly oppose this spend to the detriment of basic services.

Ron Edgecombe, via email

Canberrans treated as suckers on light rail SO, Katy Gallagher is stumping up another $85.9 million on top of the $132.5 million promised by the Opposition for a total federal contribution of $218.4 million for Light Rail Stage 2A. Apparently not satisfied nor repentant about having loaded ACT taxpayers with $1.7 billion for Stage 1 of light rail (purely for political reasons), she now adds to the burden for Stage 2; $218.4 million is a substantial sum and, if all applied to Stage 2A, would constitute 31 per cent of the most probable $700 million for Stage 2A. However, with the government intention to proceed to Woden, $218.4 million is only 7.25 per cent of the most probable cost of $3 billion for all of Stage 2 (construction plus 20 years of operations and maintenance).

Canberrans would still be looking at a bill of almost $2.8 billion for Stage 2, for a tram that will take twice as long as the current rapid buses and with a Benefit to Cost Ratio (BCR) less than for Stage 1, which was said by the Auditor-General to be only 0.49.

The government has not bothered yet (if ever) to produce a business case for Stage 2.

It has done so for Stage 2A but it’s not worth the paper it is written on. Most Canberrans are being treated as suckers on light rail.

Max Flint, co-ordinator, Smart Canberra Transport

Time to start talking, Chris Steel TRANSPORT Minister Chris Steel still won’t confirm an aimed-for 2026 completion date for the 1.7-kilometre, Stage 2A rail extension project, despite federal officials answering to this in a recent Senate estimates session (“Steel fails to confirm tram completion date”, citynews.com.au November 1) .

Yet their answers must have been linked to official advice received from the ACT government. Nor has the minister provided any update on the now months old inquiries into CIT’s $8+ million expenditure for an external consultant to deliver years of highly questionable staff development and training, and institutional “support” and mentoring.

Given that an audit report on this series of CIT contracts may appear soon ratepayers should also be advised if some of that funding approved by CIT can be recouped. If some committed yet unspent funds can be clawed back, perhaps they can be used to fill a few potholes more effectively.

Sue Dyer, Downer

Accept democratically made decisions BEC Jenson wrote (October 27) that she resents paying rates because they pay for light rail.

The famous American jurist, Oliver Wendell Holmes, wrote; “I like to pay taxes.

With them I buy civilisation.”

He was not fully correct. Taxes alone will not buy civilisation. What is needed is a consensus that, as a community, we can make decisions in our democracy and that this decision-making process will be respected.

There are few major projects that can be completed in just one term. No hospital, no major transport system, no major public

housing project.

Light rail has been put to the electorate not in just one election but two. It is needed as we respond to the climate emergency and we can, unfortunately, see the human and economic cost of this nightly on our TV screens.

Leaving rail unfinished would result in a massive waste of public resources. The human cost of this would fall not on the residents of the fine suburb of Hughes, but on those who live on our coastal plains and near our mighty inland rivers and, from bushfires, in all regional and farming communities.

At some point, a functioning democracy requires the acceptance of democratically made decisions – even those that you violently disagree with.

Noel Baxendell, Holt

Stanhope ‘wrong’ on Christmas Island rights JON Stanhope’s memoirs regarding his time as Administrator of Christmas Island (“Drink, fish and forget Canberra”, CN November 3) would make interesting reading for several reasons, yet we should not allow his personal peccadillos to cloud democratic realities.

It is insulting to hear the claim that Australians have fewer democratic rights than citizens of authoritarian China.

Residents of Christmas Island are able to vote for their local council, as arranged under WA law. Stanhope may hold concerns that the electoral arrangements skew results towards a particular outcome, yet that is a different issue to democratic rights.

Christmas Island residents also vote in Australia’s federal elections, for candidates seeking to represent the NT. Stanhope may believe it incongruent for NT politicians to represent a federal territory that is, in practice, subject to WA law, yet that is not an issue of democratic rights.

Stanhope’s time at Christmas Island was notable for certain contributions, especially the way he highlighted the issue of aged care, yet it is pure hyperbole for him to claim Christmas Island is less democratic than China.

Matt Watts, via email

When it comes to emissions, size matters IN the “Letters” column (CN October 27) Max Flint extols the benefits of nuclear generators (possibly he means small modular reactors – SMRs) in providing emissions-free electricity.

Elsewhere, proponents of SMRs regularly insist they provide cheap and immediate power and are better than renewables.

Could Mr Flint provide evidence, in full detail, on the lifetime installed cost per megawatt-hour, of SMR power and the earliest it could be available in Australia?

He should remember that the task of reducing emissions towards zero is deadly serious and extremely urgent. CSIRO, the IEA, the UNFCCC and many other expert organisations are constantly telling us this.

Equally urgent is to reap the benefits of energy efficiency – something Australia is pathetic at doing.

Mr Flint’s last paragraph also repeats the hoary old canard that Australia’s emissions, which are 1.2 per cent of world total (US Energy Information Administration 2019) are inconsequential and so, the argument goes, even if we reduce them to nothing, this would “have zero effect on global warming”.

It might surprise Max to learn that if we add up all countries whose emissions are equal to ours or less, collectively they amount to 25 per cent of world emissions.

Countries in the “1.2 per cent or less club” include the UK, Italy, France and Turkey.

Brazil and South Africa just miss out; they each produce 1.3 per cent.

If Australia gives up, why shouldn’t all those other countries, too? Such a position would be amoral. We all live on one planet. If we increase the emissions cutoff to 2 per cent – presumably still negligible in Mr Flint’s eyes – we’re looking at 38 per cent of world emissions.

Germany is amongst that 2 per cent club.

I guess Mr Flint pays (or used to pay) tax.

Did he write to the ATO and argue that his contributions were a drop in the ocean and on that basis, he should be exempt?

Peter Lyons, Kaleen

Kangaroos: Nothing to hide, right?

FOR the many residents who want to save Canberra’s kangaroos, the “Keeping up the ACT” comic strip (CN October 27) was particularly on point. A tourism campaign featuring our national icon that is routinely slaughtered every night around the country is so hypocritical.

The lives lost are certainly not “dopey bastards” though, they are mums, dads, uncles, aunties, brothers, daughters, and family members.

I found Mike Quirk’s letter (“Barr’s ‘outrageous’ claims based on what polling?”)

particularly interesting regarding political polling. It’s how the territory continually justifies the annual kangaroo cull in the Canberra Nature Park.

Although we have nearly 430,000 residents calling Canberra home, only 602 citizens are polled every few years in a survey designed to produce the same result, support for the cull.

It’s time for an independent review into all facets of the kangaroo cull; nothing to hide, right?

Chris Doyle, Gordon

Thanks for your tribute, old mate I WAS absolutely delighted to read my old friend Jon Stanhope’s wonderful tribute to my wife Shirley in “CityNews” (“Remembering friendships forged across the political divide”, CN October 27). Jon, my family and I were touched.

Jon and I go back a long way and while certainly having our political differences, Shirley and I were always good friends with Jon and Robyn despite the political divide.

Jon is an honourable man and one of great principles. Someone told me recently that when he became administrator of Christmas Island, after leaving the Assembly, he was not terribly popular with his department but very much liked and respected by the people of the island. Which means he obviously got it right and did a good job.

The ACT has been very lucky to have had two excellent chief ministers since self government – Jon Stanhope and Kate Carnell.

In my view, Jon’s best legacy was the new Cotter dam, whereby he drought-proofed the ACT, and the visionary national arboretum.

Thanks for your tribute, old mate.

Bill Stefaniak and family, Narrabundah

China’s going fast on solar and wind CHRIS Rule (Letters, CN November 3) is right: China does use nuclear-generated electricity. However, at the end of 2021, that contributed only five per cent of the country’s needs.

China is developing its solar and wind energy generating capacity at a faster rate than nuclear power because of the time required to build standard large nuclear power stations.

Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin

SUFFERING FROM ANXIETY? OVER 35 YEARS OF HELPING CANBERRA FEEL BETTER

WE DO TELEPHONE, SKYPE AND VIDEO CONSULTATIONS Eliminate illness: address the underlying cause of your poor health, not just the symptoms We can provide a safe and effective treatment for: • Anxiety or stress • Depression • Fatigue • Insomnia • Tension • Mood disorders Luke Clews

SAFE • NON-INVASIVE • EFFECTIVE • CHRONIC CONDITIONS ARE OUR SPECIALTY

Kingston Natural Therapies

49 Jardine Street, Kingston | kingstonnaturaltherapies.com.au | Phone 6295 6660 12 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

LETTERS / 2

Let loose to: editor@citynews.com.au

Halt balcony trend, we’re building high-rise slums IF we are to get denser residential development foisted upon us, as the government seems to think we need, then decision makers, especially the oft starry-eyed Greens, need to have a really good look at what is being dished up by developers.

Apartments with internal corridor access, are getting even narrower (so as to cram more flats in row), often with completely internal bedrooms, perfunctory living spaces, and tiny balconies restricted by air-conditioning units.

Now, supposedly to provide a degree of natural light and cross ventilation to both ends of apartments, some developers are reverting to flats with public open balcony access ways, but with window sills 1.8 metres above floor level on the access balcony side.

Nobody can see in, but occupants can’t see out; and bedrooms (and other spaces like kitchens and living rooms), are exposed to noise from the access balconies (and vice versa). And those balconies will be exposed to the weather, and are more likely to become congested with litter, causing blight, and impeding fire escape.

With a new ACT Territory Plan coming in, the government should halt this trend towards slums, and discourage the public balcony access format.

metres, and the trees have effectively been cut in half vertically – with the remaining half on the side downwind from the prevailing north-west to west winds.

A likely consequence of this practice is illustrated by the stump of a lopped oak that toppled in strong winds about a year ago.

This is on my street, which is on a bus route: the now-coppicing stump is there for all to see, as is the half-dead oak on a nearby busy intersection.

Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin

Misallocated funds make us all losers Lopped old oak trees in Deakin.

And, importantly, government should mandate that internal-access apartments are of a width that enables all bedrooms and living rooms to have full-width external walls, with windows, or glazed balcony doors; as well as better natural light and air flows in access corridors, larger balconies, and better privacy, solar access, and landscaping.

Jack Kershaw, Kambah

Old oak street trees ‘butchered’ IN his “Canberra Matters” column “Passionate Peter and the disconnected Greens”

(CN October 27) Paul Costigan wrote: “The ACT Greens... fail as a political body that places any priority on aesthetics. Drive down Northbourne Avenue and the results of their approach to urban design... are there to shock the visitor” approaching the city.

Despite being (allegedly) one of the wealthiest, my suburb is not immune to this “aesthetic neglect”.

For example, about five weeks ago, a contractor butchered, lopped limbs big and small, from the old oak trees along my street, presumably to ensure that they were clear of the power lines.

The regulated clearance is three metres, but many of the new gaps are about five

ONE can only hope the diversion of funds from road projects to fund light rail and the laughable explanation by Mr Steel that the road projects were “pork” and lacked a business case when one had not been seen for light rail, will lead more Canberrans to question the competence of the Barr government.

While the government’s record on the transition to a zero emissions future is positive, its management of health, housing, city maintenance, public transport and urban development has been poor and stems from a failure to base policy on evidence.

Compact city policy is an example. While a more compact city is the right policy direction as it can reduce travel, reduce infrastructure and widen housing choice, its implementation has been deeply flawed

with inadequate evidence justifying the 70 per cent infill target.

More analysis is needed to quantify the extent of travel and infrastructure savings, whether it meets housing preferences, delivers environmental benefits and development in the right locations.

Similarly light rail is championed as a means to achieve a less car dependent city. It has not been established it is more effective in meeting this goal than strategies including increasing the frequency and coverage of the bus network, using highcapacity, electric-powered buses on the inter-town public transport route, directing employment to locations well served by public transport (and discouraging it from locations difficult to service), reducing long-stay parking supply and increasing parking charges.

The high cost of light rail reduces funds available to implement such strategies and unnecessarily diverts funds from high-need areas including health and social housing.

Unfortunately, the government has not been prepared to review the efficacy of its planning and development policies.

The Canberra community is the loser with limited funds being misallocated to unjustified projects and the consequent reduction in the city’s sustainability.

Canberra’s policies need urgent, independent and comprehensive review. Light rail should be deferred until the review’s outcomes are available.

Mike Quirk, Garran

Why Challenge changed the medals FOLLOWING your excellent article about the Canberra International Riesling Challenge (CIRC) and Richard Calver’s column on the new award system (“Is ‘elite’ medal a better guide to wine than gold?”, CN November 3) – here is my thinking for the change.

In 1826, the Sydney Agricultural Society ran the first Australian wine show “to improve the bred” and awarded a gold medal to “to the cultivator who produced the best sample of Colonial Wine”. It is not known who won, but it marked the beginning of the wine shows system of gold, silver and bronze awards to wines of quality.

Theoretically, all wines entered could win gold and today some classes award all entries gold medals. The silver and bronze awards are given to wines that are very good quality, but not regarded as being at the same level as the golds.

Then in 1901, along came the Olympic Games and awarded gold, silver and bronze awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively. This destroyed the wine show system of “improving the breed”.

The CIRC decided to change to: Elite, Excellent, Premium, and Commended, which allows the Challenge to better recognise and acknowledge the quality of the wines, provide better guidance for consumers and a marketing tool for producers (eg – Excellent, Premium, Commended is more meaningful than silver and bronze – 2nd and 3rd).

The CIRC has always been innovative and moves with the times to promote riesling to the world in a meaningful way which is easily understood.

These innovations and keeping with the expectations of riesling producers and consumers is why the CIRC is regarded so highly around the world and other wine shows are following its lead.

Ken Helm AM, Murrumbateman

Business as usual for ‘cosy’ planning deals IT was entirely predictable, the ACT government’s recent announcement, of it being a “very exciting day for planning in the ACT” with the proposed changes to the ACT’s planning system.

It declares that they represent a balance between community expectations for development with the need for increased growth in town and group centres.

Despite assurances that the proposed system will be simpler and easier to navigate, including replacing the infamous call-in powers with “Territory priority projects” approvals, that remains to be seen.

It is also apparently moving away from a strict compliance-based system to “considering building development and land use proposals”, which will include cultural and community considerations.

But there is also the very telling criterion of considering “economic outcomes”, which just confirms a continuation of “business as usual”, whereby developers, construction unions and the government continue their convenient and cosy relationship, for their mutual financial and political benefit. And where does that leave the community?

Angela Kueter-Luks, Bruce

The ghost town garbage dump that is Civic CIVIC is fast becoming a ghost town and many parts are akin to a garbage dump.

We can thank the dictatorial duo, Chief Minister Andrew Barr and Mick Gentleman, Minister for Planning and Land Environment for that, owing to their ongoing love affair with greedy ACT developers, and particularly the indiscriminate use of the diabolical, undemocratic call-in powers by the minister.

The sooner Andrew, Mick and the call-in powers are removed, the better it will be for Canberrans.

Mario Stivala, Belconnen CityNews November 10-16, 2022 13

Celebrating SENIORS

advertising feature

Wealth of services dedicated to empowering seniors ALMOST a quarter of Canberra’s population is people aged 55 and over, and throughout the capital there is a wealth of services that specialise in helping seniors make the most of their lives.

From looking after health to looking after home, there are plenty of businesses throughout Canberra that help make this possible.

To empower seniors, “CityNews” speaks to some of the local experts who are dedicated to improving the lives of older residents.

14 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

Discounted respite to give carers a break

Ken Hubert and Ashilpa Khanna of Capon & Hubert Lawyers & Mediators.

A team of compassion, empathy and efficiency FINANCE director Rhonda Hubert says the staff at Capon and Hubert take pride in knowing that respect and courtesy always takes priority.

Together, lawyers Ken Hubert, Ashilpa Khanna and Daryn Griffiths cover family law, wills and estates and conveyancing.

“Ken is experienced in all areas of family law, including adoptions,” says Rhonda.

“He is an accredited mediator and has been practicing in Canberra for 40 years.

“He helps people with their legal issues with confidence and compassion.”

Ashilpa joined the team five years ago, says Rhonda, and specialises in wills and estates.

“At the time of your loss, we know you need people who understand the challenges of this time and Ashilpa is known for her empathy,” says Rhonda.

“Daryn joined us four years ago and leads

our conveyancing team, helping clients buying and selling property, both residential and commercial.”

He can also help with advice regarding contracts for retirement village accommodation, says Rhonda: “He is professional, efficient and a tireless worker for his clients.

“The Capon and Hubert team has been operating for many years in Canberra and enjoys working together.

“Many of our clients have been coming to us for a long time and much of our client base comes through referral, which speaks to Capon and Hubert’s success and the confidence their clients and other professionals have in the team.”

Capon and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators, first floor, 32-38 Townshend Street, Phillip.

Call 6152 9203 or visit chsol.com.au

AS the holiday season approaches, many families feel the pressure of juggling priorities, particularly those in our community who are carers of older family members, says Warrigal CEO Mark Sewell.

“Warrigal has stepped up to offer a discounted respite offer, so the older people in their lives can experience quality care, while they enjoy peace of mind,” he says.

“Warrigal is offering older people in Canberra a ‘stay for three, pay for one’ deal at their Calwell, Stirling, and Queanbeyan care homes. This deal involves three weeks of quality respite care in a modern home, for the price of one.”

The “two weeks free” respite offer will finish on January 31, 2023.

“Warrigal’s respite programs are readily available when caregivers need a temporary break from their day-to-day responsibilities to avoid unnecessary fatigue and burnout, particularly prevalent around the busy holiday time.”

Mark says your loved ones will enjoy 24-hour nursing care, private

A Warrigal resident and staff member. rooms, delicious meals and engaging activities, with the peace of mind knowing they are being looked after by experienced staff in specially-made accommodation.

“We’re excited to be able to bring this discounted respite offer to the Canberra community, as we know just how much these breaks can mean.

“It’s also a great opportunity to trial what living in one of our Warrigal care homes is like, and the positive lifestyle changes it can bring.”

Call Warrigal on 1800 927744 or visit their website at warrigal.com.au

Working with you for the best result Ken Hubert Family Law and Mediation

Ashilpa Khanna Wills and Estate Planning Lawyer.

Notary Public

Daryn Griffiths Property and Commercial Solicitor

Experienced in all areas of Family Law, including adoptions. Ken is an accredited business and family mediator.

A valid and up-to-date Will can help reduce stress for your family & friends, limit administration costs, and lessen the possibility for dispute over your estate.

Let us help to navigate the complexity of conveyancing laws in the ACT & NSW including stamp duty, identity verification, and tenancy laws. We also specialise in retirement village agreements.

For the best outcome when it matters how it’s done call Capon & Hubert on 6152 9203 Over 30 years serving Canberra

First Floor, 32-38, Townshend Street, Phillip ACT

chsol.com.au | enquiries@chsol.com.au

Celebrating SENIORS

advertising feature

Exercise classes keep seniors fit and connected FIVE days a week Arthritis ACT hosts seniors’ exercise classes that CEO Rebecca Davey says are a great way to stay fit and meet new people.

“They’re great exercise for seniors, but more importantly they’re a really nice way to meet other people that might be going through some of the same challenges,” says Rebecca.

“Other people living with pain, other people who are not happy with the fact that their body isn’t working quite as well as they are used to anymore. What most people find is it’s the friendships they make that’s the really special thing – the social connections.”

Rebecca says that the classes have no upper or lower age limit, either.

“Anyone of any age can come,” she says.

“Most of our classes do tend to have people that are retired and are older but there is no age limit.

“Occasionally we have some young people come as well and that gives a nice mix because it’s more like a community.”

Rebecca says the classes cover everything from strength and balance training to chair yoga to tai chi, as well as specially tailored classes for small groups.

That’s only the start, Rebecca says, with Arthritis ACT also offering services such as exercise physiology, disability support and meal planning to help people in managing their pain.

“No question is too big or small for us,” she says.

Arthritis ACT, Building 18, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au

Kim’s passionate about improving your home AS the owner of Renovation Matters, Kim says her love of renovating has seen her take her passion from a hobby to a successful business and with more than 30 renovations under her belt, she’s got the experience and know-how to transform homes to the best effect.

“I can help people who are thinking of downsizing, or renovate to add in shower rails or seats and things like that,” she says.

“Or we can renovate a family home to get people money when moving into the next chapter of their lives.”

Kim says she’s noticed a change in the current market, and having a good looking property helps it to sell.

“I’m hearing from some real estate agents that houses that are unrenovated or needing repairs are sitting on the market and not moving,” says Kim. Renovation Matters offers a “fix up, profit and pay later” process in which they can cover upfront renovation costs before settlement.

Kim says she works with specialised tradespeople who she trusts to bring their expertise and skill to clients’ renovation projects.

“If we are needed to help a client, there’s nothing we can’t do to help make the renovation a stress-free experience.

Renovation Matters owner Kim Persson.

We can take stress away,” she says.

Arthritis ACT CEO Rebecca Davey.

Renovation Matters, visit renovationmatters.com.au or call Kim on 0427 696662.

MAXIMISE YOUR PROFIT WHEN SELLING

BEFORE

Fix Up – Profit – Pay Later

Renovation Matters offers transformational renovations that add the biggest impact and value when selling your property.

If you are not selling, we can help you renovate to meet your specific requirements!

Phone Kim on 0427 696 662 hello@renovationmatters.com.au renovationmatters.com.au

16 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

AFTER

RM explainer video

SOLVING SCIATICA Sciatica is caused by nerve pain that originates from the lower back and can cause pain from the point, right down through your bottom and down one leg to your calf.

muscles, tendons and ligaments surrounding the joints and bones that support the sciatic nerve.

Not the entire area may be causing you pain at any one time, but what the pain will certainly do is cause you frequent extreme discomfort that is often not relieved by pain medication.

Sciatic pain will generally respond well to rebuilding the support structures surrounding the sciatic nerve. For some people surgery may be the only solution, but in most cases, even if surgery is required, building up the support structures either prior to or following surgery will still be necessary.

Exercise is a key to dealing with sciatica.

People who have lived with sciatica for some time will generally have some weakness of the

This is largely due to not having used their body to the fullest extent due to the sciatic pain.

Arthritis ACT has a team of exercise physiologists that can improve your quality of life in relation to your sciatica. Both hydrotherapy and land based exercise techniques are useful, and for those who do not like water exercise, land based exercise is just as effective.

Do you want to solve your sciatica?

Call us today on 1800 011 041 and book your appointment with one of our exercise physiologists and scientists to solve your sciatica.

MEET OUR EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGISTS & EXERCISE SCIENTIST

Blake Dean

Holly Hazelwood

Sophie Bullock

Natasha Perry

You do not need to have any particular condition to utilise our services, just a desire to ‘Build a Better You.’

www.arthritisact.org.au | e: info@arthritisact.org.au

Enquire or book today

1800 011 041

Celebrating SENIORS

advertising feature A complete range of care for patients

Dr William Vass.

Dr Vass offers life-changing hearing help GETTING help with hearing loss is all about improving communication and gaining clarity, says Dr Vass Hearing Clinic principal Dr William Vass.

Offering professional, independent advice and treatment, Dr Vass says taking the first step with a hearing test can be life-changing.

“We know hearing loss can be linked to anxiety, isolation, anger, relationship issues, work issues and miscommunication in general,” he says.

“After treatment or rehabilitation patients can find it a lot easier to get along with people, don’t have to guess so much and are much more confident in their communication skills, especially with their partner.”

While hearing loss can come with ageing, Dr Vass says it can also often affect young people, too.

“Those exposed to loud noises in military and construction fields can experience hearing loss.

Some people might be genetically exposed to hear-

ing loss or there could be viral infections,” he says.

“It’s very important to act early. Waiting too long can start to see a disconnect between the brain and the ear.

“We find that those people who put off getting help with their hearing loss for long periods don’t have as successful outcomes as those who seek help earlier.”

Dr Vass says patients have the certainty that they’ll be seeing him when they visit the clinic and that he will provide one-on-one, tailored care and advice.

“It’s rewarding to help people not be so isolated, and help improve their communication with others, especially their loved ones,” he says.

Dr Vass Hearing Clinic, suite 14, John James Medical Centre, 175 Strickland Crescent, Deakin.

Visit drvasshearing.com.au or call 6282 2717.

ORTHOPAEDICS ACT, which began in 2013, provides a complete range of care for patients, and offers specialist surgical services for adults and children.

“All of our surgeons are subspecialty trained in their areas of expertise,” says Prof Paul N Smith. “We cover all areas from head to toe.”

Prof Smith says the team has a “deep engagement” with the ANU Medical School and research units, as well as participating in specialty training.

He says he works in the industry because of the joy it brings when he is fixing someone’s problems. The most rewarding part is “seeing people get better and getting on with their lives”.

“Either healing a fracture, repairing an injury or enabling someone to walk again,” he says.

Orthopaedics ACT, Woden Specialist Medical Centre, Level 2, 90 Corinna Street, Phillip. Call 6221 9320, or visit orthoact.com.au

Prof Paul N Smith of Orthopaedics ACT.

Photo: Geoff Comfort

Helping farewell loved ones PASSIONATE about helping people through one of the most profoundly difficult times of their life, Jennifer Nagy, of Your Canberra Celebrant, says she officiates funeral services with empathy.

“When our loved ones pass, we know we need to organise a fitting goodbye,” she says.

“This is where I come in, Your Canberra Celebrant meeting with the family to Jennifer Nagy. help them work out how best to do this. Comforting words need to be said, memories shared, music played and stories told.

“Whatever suits, and I’m happy to design the order of service handout, if needed.”

Jennifer says she felt drawn to being a funeral celebrant after both her parents passed away.

“It is a heartbreaking experience, and I feel that I can offer comfort and support for others,” she says.

“The loss of my parents gives me compassion and empathy for people travelling through their grief. It means a lot to turn that experience into helping people during a time which is so emotionally fraught.”

Jennifer says helping people with eulogies is rewarding.

“A lot of people feel too shattered to read the eulogy, usually I can help them feel empowered enough to achieve this, though I’m always ready to step in,” she says.

“I strive to help people come away from their loved one’s funeral knowing they have honoured them with dignity and love.”

Your Canberra Celebrant. Call 0435 119981 or visit yourcanberracelebrant.com

Thoughtful and Uplifting Funeral Services Helping you through the journey of grief: • Services tailored to your loved ones wishes • Order of Service preparaton • Planning of a beautiful goodbye to your loved one • Funeral officiating

Please request my services through your funeral director “Helping you and your family feel reassured and supported on the day.”

Patients are assessed by one of our six experienced orthopedic surgeons. Surgical intervention is offered as the last resort and in most cases a conservative management plan will be provided.

Our Pain Management specialist may also be able to assist you. The goal is always to improve pain and function allowing a return to an active lifestyle as soon as possible.

Active lifestyle has many physical and mental benefits and is particularly important for seniors.

It promotes cardiovascular fitness and social interactions; it elevates one's mood and also helps to prevent osteoporosis due to inactivity and lack of sun exposure.

18 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

0435 119 981 jennifer@yourcanberracelebrant.com www.yourcanberracelebrant.com/funerals

ADVERTISMENT

A second opinion on hearing loss – you need professional advice, not a sales pitch An elderly woman with hearing loss came to my clinic for a second opinion, after she had recently been to a hearing aid sales person.

I found the cause of her hearing loss was simply the fact that she had build-up of wax in her ears, the salesperson had failed to inspect them. You might be surprised how often this happens!

Recently I was told by two different patients that they were quoted $16,000 for a pair of hearing aids.

This seems a ridiculous amount of money to pay and is most likely not appropriate for the majority of people (or possibly anyone).

5. If you are a pensioner or partpensioner, or a DVA gold or white card holder, you should carefully consider if you want to use the Here are some things to free-to-client government do to avoid getting hearing aids or if you’d ripped off: “In an like to top-up to a unregulated market different hearing aid.

1. A visit to the GP may save there is a lot of opportunity The free-to-client you from to take advantage of people. hearing aids are being ‘sold’ appropriate for many something Yes you have read correctly, when your only there is no licensing of people people, however if you have great problem is wax who sell hearing aids.” difficulty hearing in your ears. background noise (for – Dr Vass example in restaurants) 2. Look for then you might trial the someone who is top-up hearing aids, but only independent and can if you can afford them. There are offer you unbiased advice, a range of top up options and prices, not just give you a sales pitch. if you are disappointed after a trial, you should return them and trial the free-to3. There are a range of hearing aid client hearing aids. prices. Finding the right hearing aid might save you money and it will If you get the feeling the person also give you the best chance of you’re dealing with is just trying to success. sell you something, then take a step back and get a second opinion.

4. Hearing aids can be expensive.

Dr William Vass Suite14, John James Medical Centre, 175 Strickland Crescent, Deakin Phone: 02 6282 2717 • Email: williamvass@bigpond.com • Website: drvasshearing.com.au

Celebrating SENIORS Goodwin’s home care puts clients first

Optometrist Damien Longeran, left, and optical dispenser Ross Collins.

Catching eye problems early DAMIEN Lonergan and Ross Collins, of Collins and Lonergan Evolve Optometry, say it’s important for people of all ages to get their eyes checked regularly.

“Both seniors and young people should be getting check-ups every two to three years,” says Damien.

Damien, who has been in the optometry industry for more than two decades, says macular degeneration is one of the key issues that affects older people.

“It affects one in four people over the age of 80 and one in seven people between the age of 50 and 80,” he says.

“The earlier we find it the earlier we can put effective measures and strategies in.”

Ross Collins’ high standards of customer care and attention to detail saw him progress to store manage-

ment and become a key point of contact for suppliers. The next natural step was opening his own store, and Ross identified Gungahlin as the location in which he wanted to take this step.

Evolve also offers a large selection of glasses and Damien can also prescribe eye medication.

“When you come in we’ll talk about your experience in the past and anything you’re experiencing that may be a concern,” he says.

“We look forward to the opportunity to care for your eyes and your eyewear with a focus on what you need, accompanied by some good old-fashioned customer service.”

Collins and Lonergan Evolve Optometry, Gungahlin Village (opposite Coles). Call 6189 5891 or visit evolveoptometry.com.au

RUBY Kentwell, community liaison co-ordinator for Goodwin Aged Care services says home care can help people adapt to the challenges that come with the later chapters.

“It can help you get the most out of life and maintain your independence,” she says.

“Home care caters to all needs, from low care such as household chores or transport, to higher care needs such as recovering from surgery or ongoing nursing care.

“It is a great option for anyone who is missing out on doing the things they love. It’s easy because Community liason cowe can come directly to your ordinator Ruby Kentwell. home, or with you out into the community, whenever you need it.”

Ruby says Goodwin is the largest and most respected provider of home care in the ACT region and has been caring for Canberrans since 1954, “which is more than 65 years of experience”.

“We work with clients to create custom care plans tailored to their needs, that they can change any time,” she says.

“It’s about putting clients first, giving them the freedom to choose how they want to live their life.

“Goodwin carers are local, familiar faces that undergo rigorous background checks, so you can rest assured they have the best people for you.

“Discover what home care can do for you, when to take action to keep living independently at home, and what sets Goodwin Home Care apart.”

Bedding to suit everyone WITH 25 years’ experience in the industry, Australian Bedding Company (ABC) office manager Stephen Dinn says: “Please come and quiz our staff on the best, most appropriate and cost-effective solution tailored to your own needs.

“It’s a great pleasure that ABC has recently joined forces with COTA (Council On The Aging) ACT, by accepting the seniors’ card and offering extra pricing discount and free delivery to seniors’ card holders,” he says.

“We are happy to look at individual circumstances and willing to tailor the cost and inclusions to make the customer the winner. It’s best to drop in or call the shop where there are more than 35 beds and bedroom suites on display.

“We can supply, deliver, install and commission all our products with our own staff. We do not use sub-contractors, so quality can be monitored from your first contact, past delivery and installation,

and into the future years of your ownership.”

Stephen says ABC has a wide range of “special function” lift and tilt electric beds for singles, couples, and people with special mobility needs.”

Stephen says the Australian Bedding Company also has a large commercial division that adds to its buying power.

“We supply accommodation, bedding and furniture all over Australia, to universities, federal and local government agencies, numerous hotels, motels, B&Bs, hostels, backpackers and more.”

The Australian Bedding Company, 2/78 Hoskins Street, Mitchell.

Call 6262 3260, or visit australianbeddingcompany.com.au

Goodwin Aged Care. Call 6175 5650 or visit goodwin.org.au/home-care

We believe in “full-scope optometry”which pretty much means that whatever your needs are that we can look after you.

Making life easier at home We’ll come to you so you can stay at home

• • • • • • •

Eye Health Assessments Contact Lenses Behavioural Optometry Children's Vision Examination Glaucoma, Macular and Cataract Management Myopia control and Ortho-K (Orthokeratology) Vision Training

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY 6189 5891 • evolveoptometry.com.au Shop G17 Gungahlin Village 46-50 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin Located in Gungahlin Village opposite Coles gungahlin@evolveoptometry.com.au

20 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

02 6175 5650 community@goodwin.org.au goodwin.org.au/home-care

advertising feature Raising diabetes awareness WORLD Diabetes Day is marked every year on November 14, says manager operations, Diabetes NSW/ACT Natalie Smith.

“This year it focuses on the need for better access to quality diabetes education for healthcare professionals and people living with diabetes. Something we wholeheartedly endorse,” she says.

“For every person diagnosed with diabetes there is usually a family member or carer who also ‘lives with diabetes’ every day in a support role.

“This means that an estimated 2.4 million Australians are affected by diabetes every day. Our organisation is dedicated to reducing the incidence and impact of diabetes on people, health systems and society.”

Natalie says keeping diabetes under control is important at any stage of life.

“But as you age, living with diabetes can be further complicated by other chronic health conditions,” she says.

“Over time, diabetes can also cause serious health problems. Make sure you have diabetes health check-ups to prevent complications resulting from diabetes.

Diabetes NSW/ACT operations manager Natalie Smith.

“We work in partnership with diabetes health professionals and educators, researchsions on blood glucose monitoring, healthy eating and ers and healthcare providers to minimise the impact of carbohydrates, weight management, exercise, looking diabetes on the Australian community. Locally, we work after your feet, managing your emotional wellbeing with GPs, the hospitals, our community and members and much more.” to help raise awareness and support anyone affected by diabetes.”

Diabetes NSW & ACT, visit diabetesaustralia.com.au She says their diabetes education events include ses- or call 9552 9942.

Villaggio Sant’ Antonio Independent Living and Aged Care Hostel Our Hostel will enable you to enjoy a relaxed and caring community environment with 24hr care. Located within a beautiful garden setting in Page, Villaggio Sant’Antonio offers safe and secure living in both our Aged Care Facility and our Independent Living Retirement Villas.

For all enquires please contact us on 62551794 or reception@villaggio.com.au

Purchase over $999 and receive Free Delivery and a twin pack of Tontine pillows* *Condition Apply see in Store

VALID TILL 31ST DECEMBER 2022

Showroom Open Monday - Saturday 9AM - 5PM Mattresses - Electric Beds - Ensemble Bases & Storage Bases Children’s Beds and Furniture - Water Beds and Accessories and More 2/78 Hoskins Street Mitchell ACT | 6262 3260 | www.australianbeddingcompany.com.au

www.villaggio.com.au CityNews November 10-16, 2022 21

Celebrating SENIORS In-home care provides happier ageing

We offer full spectrum premium in-home care, ranging from nursing to companionship.

Get started with a FREE Caring Consult today, because there really is no place like home.

nursenextdoor.com.au

1300 600 247

NURSE Next Door provides in-home care services so that seniors can continue to live in their own homes as they age, says managing director Kylie Williams.

“Our focus is on happier ageing and making lives better,” says Kylie.

“We’re all about holistic care of the individual and focusing on their daily needs as well as their mental health needs.”

Whether it’s meal prep, housekeeping, transport or just providing some companionship, Kylie says the trained team at Nurse Next Door prioritises the needs of their clients.

“We meet with the clients to look at what their requirements are. Then we build a care plan around that,” says Kylie.

“Some clients may engage us for one visit per week,

other clients may be every day.

It really depends on them.”

Kylie says Nurse Next Door also asks clients what they like doing and builds their hobbies and interests into their care.

“We understand how important social connection is to everybody’s mental health. We are always looking for opportunities for our clients to get out and about in the community,” she says.

“It may be as simple as going down to the local coffee shop, for a walk or to events such as Floriade.”

Nurse Next Door. Call 1300 600247 or visit nursenextdoor.com.au

Outback trek the ‘walking experience of a lifetime’ BEGINNING as the Zipper Club in 1986, Heart Support Australia was formally established as a national not-for-profit organisation in 1989.

Heart Support Australia CEO Judy Ford says its mission is to facilitate the transition from hospital to home by providing the physical, psychological and CEO Judy Ford. social support to help reduce the risk of a secondary cardiac event for as long as needed.

“Heart Support Australia peer-support groups are established when there is a need identified in the community, providing a forum where people with a heart condition and their families are able to support each other, share information and encourage each other in

Enjoy your home for as long as you choose to stay Services we provide include: Home Care Packages Domestic Assistance Personal Care Social Support Social Groups for over 65’s » Community Assistance & Support Program (18-65) » Transport and more » » » » »

22 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

northside.asn.au (02) 6171 8000

If you have a complaint or concern about age discrimination, we can help!

The ACT Human Rights Commission handles complaints about discrimination in the ACT. We have a free, confidential and impartial complaint process.

day-to-day living,” she says.

Community fundraising manager Alison Lamb says Heart Support Australia is working with world expedition experts Huma Charity Challenge to offer the “walking experience of a lifetime” in Australia’s red centre, in July/August 2023.

“This fully supported adventure will get your heart started with excitement as you trek the legendary Larapinta Trail, experiencing the ancient landscape of the West MacDonnell Ranges,” says Alison.

“Each of our trekkers will be raising awareness and funds for Heart Support Australia to continue providing essential peer support, information and encouragement for patients, families and carers affected by heart disease.”

Heart Support Australia. Call 6253 0097 or visit heartsupport.org.au

advertising feature Protecting seniors from discrimination

Seniors meet preschoolers for ‘meaningful interactions’

Art show to celebrate post-covid resilience

“SENIOR Canberrans are protected from discrimination and unfair treatment under ACT law,” says Discrimination, Health Services, Disability and Community Services Commissioner at the ACT Human Rights Commission, Karen Toohey.

“This means that you or someone you care for doesn’t have to put up with Karen Toohey. discrimination or unfair treatment because of age, where you live, disability or family and carer responsibilities.”

The Commission can help seniors with matters relating to discrimination in employment, housing and accommodation, provision of health services, issues with residential aged care providers or in-home aged care services, physical or psychological abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.

“We are told that some older people do not want to report abuse or exploitation because they are concerned about the impact on family relationships or the care and support they receive,” says Toohey.

“The benefit of our process is that it can be anonymous. We work towards the outcome the older person is seeking – that might be the return of money or assets, or for a person to move out of their home so they feel safe.

“Where the older person wants the relationship maintained we work with them, and the other people involved, to make arrangements for the ongoing relationship.”

Commissioner Toohey also says that people sometimes think their issue is too small or too individual to make a complaint.

“Or they think a matter would need to go to court or involve the police, so they may prefer not to raise their concerns,” she says.

“We know these types of issues impact on people’s health and wellbeing and their participation in public life so we encourage people to give us a call and talk about their options.”

All services are free and confidential.

NORTHSIDE Community Service is a not-for-profit, communitybased organisation that has been supporting the community in North Canberra – and beyond since 1976, says manager Kate Malone.

“We’re a progressive and modern community organisation that embraces diversity, social justice and advocacy for those in our community whose voices are often unheard,” she says.

“Northside supports young children through our highquality early education services, children and young people through our youth programs and family support services, older citizens through our aged-care services and support programs, and the wider community through our housing, community development, outreach, and volunteer programs.”

Kate says “Learning Through the Ages” is a new and noteworthy intergenerational program that has been introduced this year at Northside.

“Each week our senior social group spends time with our preschool children from one of four Northside Early Childhood Centres, giving the opportunity for meaningful interactions and relationships to be built over a 10-week period,” she says.

“Research into intergenerational learning has shown extensive benefits for both the seniors and children in regard to their mental and emotional health, and overall wellbeing.

“This program has already proved an invaluable one here at Northside, and we are very excited to continue watching the countless positive outcomes unfold.”

CANBERRA Seniors Centre offers an inclusive and positive meeting place for over 50s, says manager Andrea Dean.

“Our focus is on helping people to age well, to age with a healthy body and healthy mind and engage with the community,” she says.

“The club provides great social connections and a range of activities for people to enjoy.

We’ve got a very positive and inclusive culture.”

Whether it’s getting exercise, playing cards or engaging in another of the club’s range of activities, Andrea says members can spend an hour at the club or make a whole day of their visit.

“On Friday, November 25, the Artist Mary Quinane will display her paintings Canberra Seniors Centre will at the Canberra Seniors Centre Art and Craft mark a successful resurgence Show. after COVID-19 lockdowns, by holding an art and craft show to display and sell her paintings for the first celebrate the creativity and resilience of time said: “I’ve always loved art but have its members,” she says. only had the chance to paint in recent “The official opening will be 6pm to years. I’m thrilled to be part of this event 9pm, with the admission cost of $20 to and to support the Canberra Seniors include wine and canapes.

Centre.”

“The show will continue on Saturday, November 26 from 10am to 2pm with a Canberra Seniors Centre, 10 Watson Street, gold-coin donation for admission.”

Turner. Call 6248 9509 or visit Mary Quinane, an artist who will canberraseniors.org.au

ACT Human Rights Commission, call 6205 2222 or visit hrc.act.gov.au

Northside Community Service, 2 Rosevear Place, Dickson.

Call 6171 8000, or visit northside.asn.au

A meeting place for the over 50s to build connections • • • • •

jazzercise & dancing classes yoga classes computer classes mahjong & table tennis porcelain painting & other arts

Ask about our Art & Craft Show! th 25 & 26th November, Visit our website or call for details!

(02) 6248 9509 | 10 Watson St Turner 2612 | ops@canberraseniors.org.au | www.canberraseniors.org.au CityNews November 10-16, 2022 23

Celebrating SENIORS

advertising feature Manager gets the green light from super partners

Dante Musica Viva Choir at Festa Italiana.

Senior community with a passion for Italy THE Dante Alighieri Society (DAS) has been promoting Italian language and culture in Canberra since its inception, more than 65 years ago, says director Franco Papandrea.

“It is proud to be one of Canberra’s thriving ‘senior’ community associations providing locals with the opportunity to experience authentic Italian culture,” he says.

“Characteristically Italian, the Society warmly welcomes anyone with an interest in Italian culture, or wishing to savour some Italian conviviality.

“The Dante Musica Viva Choir is popular among seniors. Everyone, no matter their language or singing ability, is welcome to join the choir family.”

Franco says you wouldn’t know it when listening to them perform, but most of the choir members are not fluent Italian speakers.

“Language courses and weekly social conversa-

tion groups for adults are also popular among seniors,” he says.

“With a well-earned reputation as the best place to learn Italian in Canberra, the Society prides itself as ‘The Authentic School of Italian’.

“The coming week is Italian Cuisine Week. As cuisine is an integral part of Italian culture, the Society is proud to contribute to the celebration with a special public talk on an iconic Italian dish’s evolution from origin to tradition.”

The Society invites anyone with an interest in Italian language and culture to become a member of a vibrant, non-profit community association dedicated to the promotion and celebration of Italy and its people.

The Dante Alighieri Society, call 5117 3996, or visit danteact.org.au

LOCAL chartered accounting firm Greenlight Super Services is owned and operated by Vanessa Rae and Danielle Rodda.

Specialising in self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF), Vanessa and Danielle have a combined total of 50 years of chartered accounting experience and are accredited specialists by the SMSF Association.

Vanessa and Danielle are pleased to welcome senior manager Noelia Pinto to the team. She has been working in the accounting and financial services industry for more than 25 years and is a former principal at MGI Joyce Dickson and, before that, a partner at Duesburys Nexia.

After graduating from the ANU with a Bachelor of Commerce, she qualified as a Chartered Accountant and provided accounting services to clients in matters ranging from personal tax through to small business needs.

Noelia says she discovered a passion for SMSFs and began to specialise in that field, providing strategic advice and solutions to assist clients with preparing for and transitioning to retirement.

She became an accredited SMSF specialist with the SMSF Association in 2008 and then went on to complete a Diploma of Financial Planning. Noelia is currently an authorised representative of SMSF Advisers Network.

“We are excited at the opportunities we are able to provide to our clients with adding Noelia to our team,” say Danielle and Vanessa.

“It allows us to ensure that we are able to continue with our business ethos of providing personalised and proactive service that is accessible, honest and timely.

“To find someone with her experience and knowledge but who is also approachable and shares our clientcentric focus is a big win for our clients.”

Noelia says: “It’s very refreshing to work with other like-minded SMSF specialists. There is no other practice in Canberra that has the same breadth of experience as we have combined.”

Vanessa Rae, left, Noelia Pinto and Danielle Rodda.

Being a smaller firm, Greenlight is able to be agile with the changing technology and ever changing legislation to the benefit of its clients.

“SMSF is an area of accounting that can provide strategies for retirement that greatly minimise tax,” says Danielle.

“We provide a personal-service solution, aligning our clients with a relationship manager and a specialist adviser. We want to help people get the best out of their superannuation and care about their futures.”

She says the Greenlight team takes pride in being able to help others navigate their annual compliance, provide strategic advice for wealth-creation goals and investment structuring.

Located at Marcus Clarke Street in Civic, Greenlight can also provide all its services remotely via its online portal and video calls.

“We work with clients directly, other accountants, financial planners, lawyers and other professional services firms to provide SMSF-specific solutions to aid in retirement plans,” says Vanessa.

“We understand that no two clients are the same, so individual strategies are our forte. We have the skills, knowledge and process that will make a difference.”

Greenlight Super Services, visit greenlightsuper.com.au or call 6273 1066.

Looking for expert help to manage your Self Managed Super Fund?

Promotes Italian Language and Culture

•

Specialist SMSF accounting firm who are accessible, honest & timely

•

Personalised service to provide value for money & proactive strategies

•

Access to your SMSF information in real time for informed decision making

•

Local firm who concentrate on being up to date & agile to incorporate change as it occurs

A welcoming place for Seniors Celebrates Italian Cuisine in the World Week 14 - 20 November 2022

Assists teaching of Italian in schools supported by:

To experience our tailored approach to managing your SMSF contact us on 6273 1066 or send us an email at info@glss.com.au

www.danteact.org.au email: info@danteact.org.au Tel: 02 5117 3996 24 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

greenlightsuper.com.au

ClubsACT / 2022 Clubs and Community Awards Celebration

special feature

Clubs’ top awards put the ‘unity’ into community IN its first major event since the end of lockdowns, ClubsACT has celebrated the community contribution of its members at its 2022 Awards night.

“We were thrilled with the night; of the just over 250 attendees, we saw a great cross section of the industry represented, with other key stakeholders from the industry, our partners and government attending,” says ClubsACT CEO Craig Shannon.

“We had three to four nominees in each category and each award highlighted a different and specific contribution our member clubs make to the Canberra community.

“I think many people overlook that Canberra Clubs are not-for-profit organisations with deep-rooted commitments to the communities they represent.

“The outward-looking, community based perspective of the awards was well received and the story narratives

ClubsACT board members and executives, from left, Paul Berger, Maurice Reilly, Kate Palmer, Dave Paull, Craig Shannon, Simon Patterson, Jeremy Wilcox and Mark Copley.

of nominees and winners were seen by attendees as broad in scope, representational in terms of activities and positive in terms of the community contributions they identified.

“The awards highlight the high

level of community engagement undertaken by the member clubs of ClubsACT and the broad spectrum of activities they are involved in. The awards recognise individuals and groups contributing to the social

fabric of the Canberra community.

“Every day in Canberra not-forprofit community clubs are out amongst the community supporting individuals and organisations that make our community stronger and

more resilient.

“Each award category had a story to tell and the stories told by each nominee highlighted an often overlooked feature of our community and the things that are going on out there every day.

“These stories are rarely brought into the spotlight and we hope through these stories we can better promote the community club industry and its importance to the sporting, cultural and social life of our city.”

ClubsACT president Kim Marshall echoed the CEO’s sentiments saying it is important to recognise the role Canberra clubs play in providing some semblance of social cohesion to local communities and the important support they provide to individuals and organisations through volatile times.

“The 2022 Awards provided an excellent opportunity to recognise the community role played by ClubsACT members and also recognise those groups working with our members to benefit the broader Canberra community,” she says.

CLUBS & COMMUNITY AWARDS 2022 Congratulations to the clubs & individuals recognised for their contribution to the Canberra community

CityNews November 10-16, 2022 25

ClubsACT / 2022 Clubs and Community Awards Celebration

Maria Cheney, of Australian Super and Minister for Government Services Bill Shorten present Vikings Group president Tim Huchinson with the “Education, Learning and Development” award.

Triple treat for the Vikings Group THE Vikings Group has won three awards at the 2022 Clubs ACT Awards ceremony, including “Contribution to Amateur Sport”, “Sustainability and Environment” and “Heart of the Community – Large Club”.

“Vikings Group is extremely proud to support 49 affiliated clubs in the Tuggeranong Valley through a vast array of programs and resources,” the club spokesperson says.

“Vikings Group offers financial support through the provision of grant funding, representative grants and event involvement.

“But in the true spirit of community, we are able to provide in-kind support to our affiliated clubs through measures that are instrumental in keeping our affiliate clubs viable and healthy as they are predominantly volunteer bases.

26 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

“These support measures include complimentary room hire for meetings and functions, complimentary hire of event equipment including marquees and trailers, complimentary hire of the Vikings Group community bus and administration and marketing support.

“Vikings Group prides itself on leading the way in our commitment to a sustainable future not just for our business, but for our members and broader community.

“To celebrate National Tree Day, Vikings Group distributed over 3600 packets of seeds to local schools to enable pre-school and primary school students to participate.”

Vikings Group is located at Chisholm, Erindale, Lanyon and Greenway. Visit vikings.com.au

special feature

Southern Cross Club Ian Mackay collects the “Clubs in Collaboration” award from Alisa Taylor, of MV Law.

Southern Cross Club wins Collaboration Award THE Canberra Southern Cross Club took out the “Clubs in Collaboration” award at this year’s Clubs ACT Awards.

During the nationwide lockdown in 2020, the Canberra Southern Cross Club launched a “Job Saver” program, says general manager of sales and marketing Mel Braid.

“This program allowed us to provide greater assistance to the Vinnies Night Patrol service. The meals provided to Vinnies Night Patrol during the COVID-19 emergency was in addition to our ongoing support of the St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/Goulburn.

“Our staff who are living in Australia on international visas were not eligible for support programs such as JobKeeper and so without ‘Job Saver’, would have had no source of income.”

Canberra Southern Cross CEO Ian Mackay says they are delighted to have been able to help staff with meaningful work and a salary while providing the Vinnies Night Patrol service with meals.

“The St Vincent de Paul Society Canberra/ Goulburn support approximately 8000 people in our local region each year. Staffed by volunteers, they offer some of the most vulnerable members of our community with a source of connection, support, referral point to other services and nutrition, and rely on support from organisations such as the Canberra Southern Cross Club to offer this valuable community service,” says Ian. The Canberra Southern Cross Club is located at Woden, Tuggeranong, Jamison and the Yacht Club.

Visit cscc.com.au

ClubsACT / 2022 Clubs and Community Awards Celebration

Richard Myers, CEO of Core Facilities, left, and Government Services Minister Bill Shorten present Anthony Ratcliffe, CEO of the Eastlake Group with the “Contribution to Amateur Sport” award.

ClubsACT 2022 award winners

Arts & Culture: Harmonie German Club Education, Learning & Development: Eastlake Group & Ainslie Group Clubs in Collaboration: Canberra Southern Cross Club Contribution to Amateur Sport: Vikings Group Sustainability & Environment: Vikings Group Heart of the Community – Large Club: Vikings Group Heart of the Community – Small Club: Harmonie German Club Celebrating Diversity & Social Inclusion: Ainslie Football and Social Club Community Development & Wellbeing: The RUC Club Service to the Industry: Tony Luchetti (Labor Club)

28 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

special feature

Harmonie German Club team pick up their “Heart of the Community” award.

Two awards for Harmonie German Club A DESIRE to serve the community helped the Harmonie German Club take out both the “Arts and Culture”, and “Heart of the Community – Small Club” awards in the Clubs and Community Awards 2022, says CEO Paul Berger.

“The Harmonie German Club was established as a social club in 1961 to cater to German migrants who made up a large part of the population of Canberra at the time,” he says.

“Today, the Harmonie German Club is home to Knuckles Restaurant, which is wildly popular for its pork knuckles, wursts and a variety of German meals. We also serve authentic fullyimported German beer in a very welcoming family-friendly and inclusive atmosphere.”

Paul says the club is privileged to have hardworking staff that come from diverse backgrounds, which allowed them to thrive

throughout the pandemic.

“We are now home to, and have built strong ties with, many community groups, including the Canberra Blues Society, the ACT Eight Ball Association and various choral and dance groups.

These community groups are very grateful to have club facilities they can call home and our symbiotic relationship helps keep us strong and sustainable.”

Paul says it was definitely gratifying to see all their hard work being recognised.

“It has been an incredibly tough couple of years and these awards reflect exactly what has been keeping us strong,” he says.

The Harmonie German Club, 49 Jerrabomberra Avenue, Narrabundah. Call 6295 9853 or visit harmonieclub.com.au

CLUBS ACT AWARD WINNER

Education, Learning & Development

Eastlake Group is grateful to receive this acknowledgment of the commitment and hard work we have put into these efforts.

It is with great pride, that we would also like to acknowledge and thank the staff and members of the Eastlake Group for their contribution to this achievement.

In the Canberra community, Eastlake Group is proud to support individuals and organizations that help to build a stronger, more resilient community.

CONTACT US EASTLAKE CALWELL 1 WERE ST, CALWELL ACT 2905 | Ph: 6291 5666 EASTLAKE FOOTBALL CLUB 3 OXLEY ST, GRIFFITH ACT 2603 | Ph: 6228 0999 EASTLAKE GUNGAHLIN 51 HINDER ST, GUNGAHLIN ACT 2912 | Ph: 6147 5511

GARDENING Aged Composted Plant now for Horse Manure Christmas • Pick up by the bag $7 each • Pick up by the trailer load $40 per trailer • We deliver truck loads

7 BELTANA ROAD, PIALLIGO Any queries phone Ivan 0413 949 900

Monarch Window Cleaning Average 3 BR Home Free Flyscreen & Tracks Clean

From

220

$

COMMERCIAL CLEANING QUOTES AVAILABLE Protective COVID Cleaning 0407 263 812 / 6259 3200 monarchservices@live.com.au

produce IT’S still a busy time in the vegetable patch getting as much produce into the ground or into pots as possible.

Anyone aiming to have produce from the garden on the Christmas table, then all edibles need to be in and growing fast to give them time and hopefully some sunshine.

If growing tomatoes, they will need to be staked as they are a vine and need support to climb on. Using a trellis of wire with strong star pickets will work to keep the fruit and leaves off the ground.

Sprinkle a little dolomite lime into the ground a few weeks before planting tomatoes. This adds calcium to the soil and prevents tomatoes from getting blossom end rot. After planting, fertilise with a good quality tomato or vegetable fertiliser.

Call today

Even the magpies think it’s real…

Synthetic grass stays green all year round Australian made for Australian climate standards Family owned business - 15 years experience Easy low maintenance & water free Up to 15 years warranty from manufacture & 8 years commercial use We do Landscaping and paving too!

For a FREE measure & quote

call David 0410 682 457 or Nancy 0410 081 771

Keeping it green.com.au The synthetic grass solution

Lic # 1993 14963

PLUMBING GAS FITTING & DRAINAGE • No job is to small • Provide fast reliable service • Clear Blocked Drains | Hot water Installations & Repairs • Service & Install all Gas Appliances • All Plumbing & Gas Services • New Homes & Renovations • We care about our customers • We get it fixed right the first time

30 Years Servicing Canberra

Competitive prices – No surprise fees

PAT MORELLA | 0412 628 538 30 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

The deciduous Japanese rose… grows and flowers well in shade.

Easy-to-grow seed potatoes are still available at the nursery and worth growing as a staple food. This year I’m trying Dutch Cream, which is a good all-rounder, especially for mashing.

Potatoes need a little space to grow and full sun. They like “new ground” and will break up clay soils very well. Potatoes planted out now will be ready for harvest in March-April.

A LOCAL native called Indigofera Australis is a sweet plant that grows well in our region as a small to medium upright straggly shrub.

Indigofera are flowering now with spires of pink to purple blooms and nectar that is attractive to insects, birds and butterflies. Its flowers are complemented with delicate soft fern-like foliage.

Drought resistant when established, they are easy to grow and need little care.

Indigofera is also a leguminous plant and it improves the soil by “fixing” nitrogen through the rhizobium nodules on the roots.

Seed pods can be harvested when they have gone brown and dried as much as they can. Indigofera seeds store for a long time and, for more successful germination, soak overnight in boiling water to break dormancy when you’re ready to sow them.

Sow in a seed-raising mix and keep watered. Seed can take four to six weeks to germinate, so be patient.

ONCE the temperature gets above 15C it’s time to net apples and quince trees to prevent codling moth spoiling the fruit. Hopefully, by now the bees

Chris’ Trees

• Tree pruning • Tree removal • Tree maintenance • Hedge lowering • Retaining walls

Quote range $300 to $600*

Flowering Indigofera… with spires of pink to purple blooms and nectar attractive to insects, birds and butterflies.

Photos: Jackie Warburton have pollinated the flowers and fruit set will begin for the season.

If netting is not an option, then dipel can be sprayed when the moth is at caterpillar stage or use codling moth traps, which are designed to attract the male and get stuck on a sticky substance and break the life cycle of the moth.

HEDGE pruning is at its busiest now. Prune spring growth after flowering is the general rule. Once the weather warms, the growth will slow down. Try to avoid hedge pruning through the hot summer months.

Insured – AAMI

Text or call 0468 695 561 Email cgsact@gmail.com Find me on gumtree.com.au * $600 day rate (1 x Tree surgeon)

jackwar@home. netspeed. com.au

THE deciduous Japanese rose (Kerria japonica “Pleniflora”) is a terrific plant that grows and flowers well in shade. It has a scrambling habit and can take over if not kept in check. But while it needs some room to grow, it’s a useful, hardy filler in a large garden. It survives in

Aussie Stump Grinders 7 Days - Free phone quote

Tony 0419 887 988 www.aussiestumpgrinders.com.au

SUNDAY ROAST

‘No time like the present’ MAXIMUM IMPACT!

any soil and is relatively pest free.

Its arching stems can grow up to two metres tall (and wide), but removing suckers limits its size.

Their flowers are the brightest yellow pom-pom flowers and last for a long time on the bush. As a bonus, Kerria’s foliage turns a golden yellow in autumn.

They need to be pruned after flowering as they flower on new growth. Cutting back now will allow for new growth for next year’s flowering crop. There is a single-flowering version, but it’s not as spectacular as the double.

Talking to the names making news.

Sundays, 9am-noon.

IAN

ROD

MEIKLE & HENSHAW

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

INSIDE

Ducking in for a cheapand-cheerful lunch

WENDY JOHNSON

A comedy of manners… but without the manners!

COVER STORY

By Helen Musa

CONTRARY to what the promotional pictures suggest, “God of Carnage” is not about food or eating – that disgusting mess is a metaphor for what director Jordan Best calls “the savage mess beneath”.

Seasoned comic actor Jim Adamik, plays Alan, a high-profile lawyer very sure of his own importance and certain that parenting is a mother’s job. ing chat and find all of them eager to remind me that the show is funny, describing it as “a farce of delightful proportions” and “an

absolute hoot, with one laugh after another”.

Maybe, but the 2009 Tony Awardwinning play is telling us something about

she has a very considerable opinion of herself.

Her husband Michael, played by Josh Wiseman, is a successful, blue-collar company director who indulges his wife.

Hart’s character Annette is a lifestyle stylist, wealth manager, management expert for whom parenting has come at a great price, hard work not having been part of the plan.

Seasoned comic actor Jim Adamik plays her husband Alan, a high-profile lawyer, very sure of his own importance and certain that parenting is a mother’s job.

The stage is set for a comic disaster.

Wiseman says Reza’s focus is on the relationships, so he thinks the play will be very accessible to parents who may have been in such encounters.

How do you reach out? Are you the kind of parent who says: “Oh, my child wouldn’t have done that” or are you the kind that might say: “Do you know what, maybe?”

The children can become the pawns in a protective game.

Hart says that as one couple might look for retribution and the other for reconciliation, the audience members will variously side with different people, and it might get them questioning themselves.

“The play gets wild at the end,” Best says.

“But it’s very, very funny. There’s no great big message, it tells the story and it honours the playwright.”

“God of Carnage,” The Q, November 23-26.

23-26 November

Written by celebrated French playwright Yasmina Reza, “Carnage” is the second Reza play in Canberra this year, after “Art” was performed at The Street in September.

It’s a comedy that rips off the thin veneer of civility to reveal what savages we all are at heart.

Playing at The Q, Queanbeyan later this month, it opens as two sets of parents meet to discuss an incident where Alan and Annette’s son has hit Michael and Veronica’s son in the face with a stick.

Reza’s plays are within the rich tradition of French farce, full of absurdities and nearstaccato dialogue. “God of Carnage” gets nasty very quickly and is more “a comedy of manners… without the manners”.

I meet the entire cast with Jordan Best and her assistant director Callum Doherty, whose brains she is picking, for a freewheel-

ourselves, too.

“Adults, behaving like children, like all manners are gone,” says Best.

“A race to the bottom,” says Caroline Eccles, who plays Veronica.

Lainie Hart, who plays Annette, points out that one truth in this comedy is that, even if you try to be civil it doesn’t mean you haven’t brought into the room the baggage of the day.

Best is adamant that there is a universal quality to Reza’s play and though French, it’s been translated into English by Christopher Hampton in such a way as to be universal.

“This could happen anywhere in the world… but it certainly shows how far the French are prepared to go,” she says.

She’s set it vaguely in Australia, but says it’s a universal story about a particular class of people, where certainly the home truths come out, but it’s done economically, with nothing superfluous. ”You know these people, but it doesn’t mean they’re fully finished. They’re still comedy characters painted with a broad brush, which is why we laugh. And it’s a sitcom,” she says.

Eccles, best known as a physical-theatre artist, a talent which comes to bear in creating a hilarious farce, says performing in such a verbal play “is really different for me”.

Veronica, she says, is a writer, about to release a self-published book on the Darfur genocide in Western Sudan. Highly strung,

CityNews November 10-16, 2022 31

MUSIC

Winther joins the sax four who ‘rock the house’

By Helen Musa

VIOLINIST Kristian Winther is known to Canberra music lovers as one of our brightest stars.

Born into Canberra musical royalty, his father, the late Danish pianist John Winther, was a former director of Canberra (now ANU) School of Music and his mother, Vivienne Winther, director of the Macquarie Conservatorium in Dubbo, was a former Canberra Artist of the Year and director of the chamber opera company Stopera.

It’s no surprise, then, that Kristian has become an internationally recognised violinist who has, in his own country, appeared with the Melbourne, Sydney, Tasmanian, Adelaide and WA symphony orchestras, the Auckland Philharmonic, the Melbourne Chamber Orchestra and many chamber ensembles.

Now he’s appearing with Germany’s Signum Saxophone Quartet, billed as “four saxophonists who rock the house”, here soon for Musica Viva performing a program billed as “jaunty”. No stranger to Musica Viva, having played for them when he worked with the Tinalley String Quartet, this is his first time with them as a soloist.

When I catch up with Kristian by phone to Sydney, he tells me, “covid was really great” – in the musical sense, that is.

There were far worse places to be stuck in during the pandemic than Australia, he relates as he and his partner, another Australian violinist whom he met while she was studying in Cologne, found themselves

Peter ColemanWright AO, Director

Violinist Kristian Winther… “I am in no way a jazz musician.” in Australia at the time and couldn’t have been happier to be back home.

A friend in Cologne is packing up their stuff to send back, but they’re also looking forward to being up and away on tour soon and will be off to Finland in January.

The coming concert has been billed as a moody, glamorous tour with an unmistakable jazz flavour but Kristian is quick to assert that “I am in no way a jazz musician”.

It’s the pairing with Signum’s sax that has people thinking it might be jazz, as the quartet, made up of Blaž Kemperle, Hayrapet Arakelyan, Alan Lužar and Guerino Bellarosa, is famous for taking weird pieces and giving

Featuring Graham Abott, Conductor

32 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

Emma Matthews

Germany’s Signum Saxophone Quartet… performing a program billed as “jaunty”.

them another chance. But some are not so weird, such as Bach, played in a surprising way and Goldberg, to name a couple of composers.

On the program is the fiendishly difficult Violin Concerto, Op. 12 and Musica Viva has commissioned Sydney composer Jessica Wells to arrange this piece specifically for Signum and Winther.

Although people might associate Kurt Weill with German cabaret of the Weimar Republic, it’s worth remembering that he had a classical grounding and studied studio composition under Ferruccio Busoni.

Kristian, now 37, is well-acquainted with

Rachelle Durkin

the music of Kurt Weill. His mother Vivienne is famously a Weill tragic who, every couple of years, would put on a Weill opera, so that as a teenager in Canberra, he grew up hearing it around the house.

The innovative programming, he says, comes from Musica Viva’s newish artistic director Paul Kildea, who saw the opportunity to blend his violin with sax.

Kildea has come up with an audiencepleaser that features Gershwin’s “Three Preludes”, Bernstein’s “Symphonic Dances” from “West Side Story”, Camilo’s “Caribe”, Bach, Weill and, from the perennially popular JS Bach, the “Italian” Concerto –

“A concert that plays to everyone’s strengths,” Kristian says.

“The saxophone may be a relatively new musical instrument, only patented in the 19th century, but it’s rather like organ and guitar in that its repertoire is huge, though not so much of it is known.”

He’s expecting Signum to arrive here with far more than just four instruments as they’ll be exploring the full variety of the saxophone’s potential.

Signum Saxophone Quartet and Kristian Winther, Llewellyn Hall, 7pm, Thursday, November 17.

CINEMA / reviews

High points in life of astonishing Kiwi

By Dougal

MACDONALD The 1930 original of “All Quiet on the Western Front”... included some of the most graphic and horrifying depictions of battle for its time.

STREAMING

A scene from Netflix’s remake of “All Quiet on the Western Front”... does a fine job in standing on the shoulders of the giant that came before it.

Back to trenches, as Netflix remakes a ‘giant’ war movie IT’S a tragedy that no major streaming subscription comes with access to the 1930 classic “All Quiet on the Western Front”.

It’s now been almost 100 years since the film first hit screens, one so old that when it was released it earned the label of a “talkie” – slang for a bold new genre of movies that featured sound.

And yet even by today’s standards this incredible work remains one of the most shocking and fittingly disturbing pieces of anti-war art ever made.

A review at the time of its release that appeared in “Variety” captures just how much of an impact it made on a world still picking up the pieces from the war to end all wars: “The League of Nations could make no better investment than to buy up the master-print, reproduce it in every language, to be shown in all the nations until the word ‘war’ is taken out of the dictionaries.”

While sad indeed then that the original “All Quiet on the Western Front” may not be easily accessible by a modern audience, Netflix’s new remake does a fine job in standing on the shoulders of the giant that came before it.

“All Quiet on the Western Front”, just released on the streaming platform, reimagines this harrowing masterpiece for a new era.

For those who aren’t familiar with the source material, it’s the story of a 17-year-old German boy who enlists for service in World War I with

dreams of becoming a hero for his country.

Those romanticised delusions not only unravel during the rigorous and brutal training he’s put through, but they’re then utterly torn apart by the chaos of the trenches he’s sent to.

The film was based on the 1929 book of the same name by Erich Maria Remarque, who himself was a German veteran of World War I. When published it took the world by storm.

It sold two and a half million copies in 22 different languages in its first 18 months of release alone.

In the author’s own words he wanted his controversial polemic to be a spokesman for a generation “destroyed by war, even though it might have escaped its shells”.

It is no surprise that it became one of the first books to be publicly burnt by the Nazi Party. They would also ban the distribution of the film once they took power just three years after its release.

Indeed the film pulled no punches in its condemnation of the lies that were sold to boys on the cusp of manhood who wanted to serve their country.

It included some of the most graphic and horrifying depictions of battle for its time.

No, it’s not as bloody as what audiences are exposed to today, but even now the film still has the ability to leave audiences in a

CONVERSION SERVICE Would you like to watch those old family videos once again, or listen to your favourite records on CD? We can take your vinyl records or cassette tapes and put them onto CD and we transfer video tapes onto DVD.

disturbed stupor.

While the newest remake tweaks the story here and there, the broad brushstrokes remain the same. It, too, wants to capture that same shock value in telling its story.

However, in an era where audiences have become more desensitised to on-screen violence, “All Quiet on the Western Front” uses other means to confront its audience.

Stunning cinematography captures the harrowing scale of trench warfare. The production value is impressively detailed and creates a remarkable air of realism.

When it all falls into place it offers one of those rare experiences where one can forget they’re watching a film.

It’s fitting for a story of such importance – the tragedy of young lives lost in the futility of conflict and one with an ending that is almost as shocking and revelatory as the original.

“All Quiet on the Western Front” may be a remake of a film that is now almost a century old and one about a conflict that is more than a century old, but this is one story that is as relevant as it’s ever been.

hi-micro C O M P U T E R S YS T E M S

SLIDES TO DVD NOW AVAILABLE PRICE ON APPLICATION

OPEN 7 DAYS Cooleman Court, Weston Creek 6293 4677 | songland.com.au

> > > > > >

Laptop / Desktop Computer Sales & Repairs Gaming PC specialist School Laptops FREE Upgrades on all brands QUOTES Virus / Spyware removal Onsite service Mon to Fri 8.30am-5.30pm > Sat 9am-12pm

HI-MICRO COMPUTERS PHONE 6280 7520 > WWW.HI-MICRO.COM 6/18 WHYALLA STREET, FYSHWICK

“Whina” (G) JAMES Napier Robertson and Paula Whetu Jones’ NZ-made film might confuse some people trying to pronounce its title. And good luck to them.

They would belong to the 99.99999 per cent of the world’s population not born Kiwis who get it wrong. Not me. I’ve been happily married to one for decades. And I don’t remember hearing her pronounce that word.

Kiwi-speak pronunciation of Whina is “Feena”, an abbreviation of Josephina given to Hōhepine Te Wake born in the northern NZ township of Hokianga on December 9, 1895. The legend is that, at first, they thought the baby was a boy. She wasn’t.

The film that Robertson and Whetu (pron. Fettu) have created is built of what some might call bits in the high points of the life of that little girl through two marriages, several children and a collection of public honours – OBE, DBE, DCBE, 20th appointee ever to NZ’s highest civil honour, the Order of New Zealand.

During September and October 1975, at nearly 80 years old, Whina headed a 1100-kilometre Maori land march from the northern tip of the North Island to Wellington, to support the slogan “not one more acre of Maori land”; to demand acknowledgement of Maori property rights under the Treaty of Waitangi (thank you, Wikipedia for that information).

The foundation for this review is based on NZ history. The screenplay combines scripted information derived from records private and public and, in her later years, from TV footage; you’ll have no difficulty working out which is which. Frankly, each stands on its own feet, regardless of subject and origin.

I came away from “Whina” hoping that people will see it for two reasons.

Despite its constant to-ing and fro-ing among people, places and times, it’s quite entertaining. Miriama McDowell portraying her in early adulthood and

Rena Owen as elderly, don’t muck around.

First Australians may well feel the film’s unabashed proselytising for Maori interests to be a valid template for modern times. I’ll go to my grave feeling neither conventional nor otherwise about that.

At all Canberra cinemas

“Armageddon Time” (M) THE dramatic thread of writer/director James Gray’s film doesn’t really bind its core themes of family, friendship’s complexity and the American Dream to its playing out between middleclass, white schoolboy on this hand, working class, indeed, neglected Afro-American schoolboy on the other.

In 1980, the Graff family has settled into the challenges of life in their new New York home. The youngest of the family, Paul (Banks Repeta) starting a new school year faces challenges to his artistic proclivities when he befriends apparently troubled Johnny (Jaylin Webb).

Paul finds comfort in Johnny’s free spirit and shares a bond with him like he’s never felt before. The pair dream big and plan adventures that result in unfortunate truths about life and its inequities.

The film’s emotional heart and soul resides in Paul’s grandfather Aaron (Anthony Hopkins) as much as his character does for the family.

Inevitably, Aaron doesn’t have much time left. Yet, his presence doesn’t give the film much to say about privilege in the context of racial, economical and social differences.

That leaves it to Paul and Johnny to carry the film’s emotional and dramatic weight. At the time of filming, both had yet to enter the biological minefield of puberty. On first sighting Repeta, I thought: “This is a potentially attractive young woman”. I wait to see what changes time will bring as he negotiates the minefield of body and spirit that every boy at that age must face. Armageddon indeed.

At Dendy, Palace Electric

FishCo

Fresh is Best!

OPEN 7 DAYS

FRESH Fish & Seafood

Excellent choice Free cleaning!

fishco.com.au

6239 6415 19 Dalby St Fyshwick

CityNews November 10-16, 2022 33

PELVIC FLOOR PROBLEMS? Move forward with confidence with Personal Trainer Kylee Todd • Group or Tailored one on one sessions • Postnatal recovery through to peri to post menopause

Call Kylee on 0406 975 934

www.postnatalandbeyond.com Crispy pork and prawn spring rolls… with a dipping sauce on the side.

Restorations - Repairs - Remakes - Re-Setting Ring Re-sizing - 48hr Service Custom Design - for something Special Pearl and Bead Re-Threading and Knotting

Advance Jewellers A Family Business: 55 years experience

Southlands Shopping Centre – Mawson

Open: Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri. 10am to 4pm Sat 10am to 1pm

0408 310 063

Our First (ever)

SALE

On Now ...

Advance Jewellers

Your Precious ‘Old’ Jewellery - well it used to be... now maybe... It’s just old - and a bit worn out, or costs too much to fix... probably never be worn again...

You keep the memories - perhaps, we could buy the goods?

The duck and pork two-mix barbecue dish… The veggie hit… English spinach with garlic. tender and moist.

Photos: Wendy Johnson

DINING / Tak Kee Roast Inn, Dickson

Duck in for a cheap-and-cheerful IT was the rows and rows of roasted ducks hanging in the window that lured us into Tak Kee Roast Inn for a quick, casual, no-fuss, cheap-andcheerful lunch.

The tables are packed inside, and you’re whisked to one that’s available quick sharp and a nanosecond later brought a pot of complimentary tea.

Tak Kee Roast Inn’s claim to fame is that it’s the first Chinese barbecue restaurant in Canberra.

The Inn, which has held its position on busy Woolley Street for yonks, also specialises in won-ton noodles and Gow Gee soup, but we were there for duck.

A top seller is the two-mix barbecue dish, which we combined duck and pork ($25). Both were tender and moist. We agreed the duck on the bone was the more flavoursome of the two – no surprise given duck is a stronger flavour anyway. The skin was roasted to perfection.

Before our main, we ordered dim sim, which delighted. Our preference was for steamed

although a fried option is also available ($7 for two). They were sensational. Plump, moist, full of flavour and a generous size.

We also selected another top seller, the pork and prawn spring rolls. They arrived piping hot with a dipping sauce on the side ($7 for two). The rolls were crispy crunchy on the outside and stuffed with a perfect balance of juicy pork and prawn.

For our veggie hit we headed to the specials board. The bright green English spinach with garlic was subtle ($15) but slightly overcooked in our books. Next time we’ll give the Chinese broccoli with XO sauce a go ($16).

Chef’s specials feature cold jellyfish with shredded duck or chicken ($18.50), fish in sweet corn sauce ($17.50), beef brisket and tendon hotpot ($18.50) and a mapo tofu ($16). The line-up of Congee dishes includes century egg and pork ($13), lettuce and sliced fish ($13) and

shredded duck and seafood ($13).

Tak Kee Roast Inn’s décor is “plain Jane”, not that anyone seems to mind (or notice). Dozens of signs are plastered along walls and at the front near the cash register advertising one special or another. The sparse artwork on the wall is faded, but Tak Kee Roast Inn is what it is, and the operators are content with that.

Décor certainly doesn’t affect the volumes of takeaway Tak Kee Roast Inn pumped out during our quick lunch. It was constant and the Inn delivers to more than 20 suburbs. The Inn is BYO and there are at least two bottle shops nearby.

Warning: Parking in the immediate area around Tak Kee Roast Inn can be challenging with the Woolley Street upgrade project in full swing.

ARTS IN THE CITY

Why bother, wonders Williams

By Helen Musa FRIENDS of the NFSA have established the Rod Wallace Memorial Lecture series to commemorate the achievements of the late Roderick Wallace, often described as “the godfather” of the National Film and Sound Archive.

The speaker will be Kim Williams, former chief executive at News Corporation Australia, Foxtel, Fox Studios Australia, the Australian Film Commission, Southern Star Entertainment and Musica Viva and his topic is “Why bother? Reflections on the duty of care to Australians’ creativity”. NFSA Arc Cinema, Acton, 6.30 pm, November 17.

“INFINITE Possibilities”, a new commission from one of Canberra’s brightest and best, Canberra-bred composer Leah Curtis, will be performed by the Canberra Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Jessica Cottis at Llewellyn Hall, November

Composer Leah Curtis.

34 CityNews November 10-16, 2022

version of Shakespeare’s “All that glisters is not gold” in titling its exhibition “All That Glitters”, showing works by local artists Helen Braund, Tiffany Cole, Romany Fairall, Michele Grimston and Emma Rani Hodges. The show runs alongside “Swoon! We are Dizzy with JOY!”

by Hands On Studio, both until December 17.

Rod Wallace… “Godfather” of the National Film and Sound Archive.

23-24. As well, Australian-Ukrainian violinist Markiyan Melnychenko performs Sibelius’ D minor violin concerto and the program closes with Stravinsky’s 1947 “Petrushka.”

MEANTIME, preparations are afoot for the CSO 2022 Fundraising Gala “All That Glitters”, also conducted by Cottis, which includes works by Debussy, Borodin, Piazzolla, Paul Dukas, Samuel Scheidt and an excerpt from Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Scheherazade,” Gandel Hall, NGA, 6pm, Friday, November 25.

TUGGERANONG Arts Centre, like the CSO, has used the revised

“THE Age of the Pinedemic – the Musical” is an original musical devised by participants of Tuggeranong Arts Centre’s Children’s Musical Program together with Tim and Nathalie Bevitt, the fourth musical created by this team. At the centre, on Friday, November 18-19.

“BORN on a Rainy Day,” an exhibition of the artworks, original drawings, limited edition prints and sculptures by comedian Billy Connolly, will be on show at Hyatt Canberra, 10am to 5pm, November 19 and 20. “Drawing has given me a new lease of life,” Sir Billy has said.

BAZ Luhrmann’s biopic “Elvis” will screen at the National Film & Sound Archive on Friday, November 18. Tickets include entry to the NFSA’s newly-refreshed “Australians & Hollywood exhibition”, a talk from an NFSA curator about the “Elvis” items on display and a performance from rock’n’roller Jerikye Williams before the film.

HOROSCOPE Your week in the stars

By Joanne Madeline Moore

PUZZLES

ADVERTISEMENT

General knowledge crossword No. 855

November 14-20, 2022 ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

Are you a lacklustre Ram who’s temporarily lost your confidence? Dynamic Mars (your boss planet) is in retrograde mode until January 12. So you need to review your current plans and reboot your long-term aspirations. Believing in yourself is the key, even though it’s the last thing you feel like doing at the moment. Your motto for the week is from birthday great, artist Georgia O’Keeffe: “I decided to start anew, to strip away what I had been taught.”

Seeing the benefits of good sunglasses

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)

Retrograde Mars highlights hiccups in your financial management, and the Venus/ Jupiter trine boosts your shopaholic tendencies. So aim to be less extravagant and more cautious with cash and credit. Expect a chatty week with plenty of opportunities to converse and socialise, in person and online. With the help of diplomatic Venus (and your heightened persuasive powers), strive to anticipate (and smooth over) communication problems before they happen.

A GOOD pair of sunglasses is a summer necessity.

Not only for the comfort of reducing the glare you experience on a bright sunny day, but they are important protection.

GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

Mercury (your patron planet) connects with adventurous Jupiter and transits into spontaneous Sagittarius. And Mars is visiting your sign – although it is in retrograde mode. So don’t let fear stop you from patiently moving towards your ambitious goals. Draw inspiration from this week’s birthday great, painter Georgia O’Keeffe: “I’ve been terrified every moment of my life – and I’ve never let it keep me from doing a single thing I wanted to do.”

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

Many Crabs are feeling cranky and impatient, as projects seem to stall at every turn. Retrograde Mars is transiting through your self-sabotage zone, plus Neptune throws a spanner (or should that be a trident?) into the mix. So you’re set for a frustrating, disappointing and/or confusing week. But are other people, circumstances and planets placing annoying obstacles in your path and slowing you down… or are you the lone culprit? Food for thought.

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

The Sun (your power planet) forms fabulous connections with Neptune and Pluto.

So prepare for a creative surge as inspiration strikes, confidence blooms and your imagination soars. If you are a Leo poet, painter, performer, writer, singer, dancer or musician, make the most of it. But – with Mars reversing through your aspirations zone – avoid taking on too much, over-promising and then under-delivering.

Aim to be a selective Cat who gets things done.

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

This week – in areas involving your professional work and your public reputation – best laid plans could come unstuck, as you ride a wave of unsettling changes.

Mars continues reversing through your career zone (and on the weekend it squares Neptune). So take extra care with computers, contracts and communication, especially with colleagues, clients or customers. If you are unclear, then others will misinterpret your ideas, motivations and explanations.

1 What is faith placed in something? (6) 8 What is a framework of bones? (8) 9 Which term describes an elf, fairy or a goblin? (6) 10 Name the fruit of a large tropical tree. (8) 11 Name a fatal infectious disease of the brain.

(6) 12 Who is said to be Australia’s Dame? (4) 13 ... Gordon was the arch enemy of Ming the Merciless. (5) 16 Name a particular punctuation mark. (5) 19 Which abbreviation means “as soon as possible”? (4) 21 What is a flat grave slab? (6) 22 Name a less common term for vitamin B. (8) 23 Which are the main trunks of the arterial system? (6) 24 To be extremely hungry, is to be what? (8) 25 What is a primary linguistic form? (6)

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

The Venus/Jupiter trine is terrific for work and money. But – with Mars in retro mode – don’t mislead someone by giving them mixed messages. Do your best to keep communication crystal clear, especially in areas involving legal matters, education, commerce, travel and international connections. It would be best to delay a major trip or holiday until next year (after Mars turns direct on January 12).

But you can start saving, planning and booking ASAP!

Down

Across

Solution next edition

2 Name a great Italian painter and architect 1483-1520. (7) 3 From which places do milk and cream come? (7) 4 Name a blood-sucking African fly. (6) 5 What is an alternative term for a calendar? (7) 6 To be morally right, is to be what? (7) 7 Which Australian politician led the Opposition 1972-75, Sir Billy ..? (7) 13 From which building are goods manufactured?

(7) 14 To carry through, or accomplish, is to do what?

(7) 15 Name an Australian soprano, born in NZ, Dame Joan ... (7) 17 Which private soldier attends on a superior officer? (7) 18 What is a plant of the mint family, used in cooking? (7) 20 To be agreeable, is to do what? (6)

FREE PUZZLES EVERY DAY AT citynews.com.au

Sudoku medium No. 328

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

Nebulous Neptune squares mighty Mars, which is still reversing through your trust and control zone. So you’ll feel disoriented and confused, and could try to regain control by slipping into control-freak mode. The Sun/Pluto link encourages you to slow down, keep your options open and wait patiently. Your motto for the moment is from fellow Scorpio, singer-songwriter Katy Perry: “I never want to be just one thing. I want to be multi-dimensional.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

This week the Sun, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto activate your spirituality zone. So slow down, review major plans, revisit unfinished projects and look for inspiration from within. It will take plenty of persistence to turn your dreams into reality. And Mars is still retrograde, so a close relationship could suddenly stall – or even go backwards! Don’t waste precious time worrying and wondering. Instead, be patient as you re-evaluate and re-calibrate.

UV light can cause damage to many of the structures in and around your eyes. The skin around your eyes can get damaged just like anywhere else that gets exposed to excess UV light, but so can the eye itself.

UV light can also contribute to other problems on the surface of your eye, or to the formation of cataracts in your eyes.

At Evolve Optometry, we have a wide range of prescription and non-prescription sunglasses from the world’s leading fashion and eyewear brands.

All our sunglasses provide UV protection, and we have polarised and non-polarised options in stock.

Polarised lenses are preferred by many, particularly those who spend lots of time on or near the water or on the golf course.

Maui Jim is our premium polarised sunglass range. They have patented polarised plus2 technology, which we believe makes them the best in terms of lens quality and clarity. Not only do they eliminate 99.9 per cent of glare, but they are also scratch resistant.

Maui Jim offers a two-year warranty on the frame and a lifetime warranty on spare temples (the arms), even beyond the two years, if parts are still available!

Sunglasses are a great gift idea, some of our new favourite sun-fashion styles for summer include urban, sleek shapes from Australian brand Vaanyard or lightweight minimal look from Mykita (handmade). We also stock all new-season styles from Gucci and Saint Laurent, and rose-coloured lenses from Maui Jim. Sunglasses are important for sport. We have new Bolle wrap sunglasses for cycling, or Nike if you have an active lifestyle.

Come in and check out our range, and ensure your eyes are sun-protected while also looking stylish this summer.

Don’t forget to use your health fund rebates before they expire. With only a month left to make use of all the benefits, now is the perfect opportunity to book in and get that new pair of specs you’ve had your eye on.

To sweeten the deal, we are offering $50* towards your next pair of spectacles or prescription sunglasses to help you take on the new year with a fresh, stylish look.

Collins and Lonergan Evolve Optometry is an independently owned optometrist in the centre of Gungahlin, conveniently located opposite Coles inside Gungahlin Village.

Call 6189 5891 or visit evolveoptometry.com.au to book an appointment. (*T&C apply.)

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

Mars continues reversing through your work zone until January 12. So – when it comes to professional matters – it’s a case of one step forwards and two steps back. With patience and perseverance, you’ll eventually get there. Confidence levels are also a bit low, so do your best to surround yourself with positive people who boost your spirits and encourage your dreams. Friday and Saturday favour setting personal goals and getting involved in group projects.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Do your best to get the balance right between your professional life and your domestic responsibilities. If a stressful situation is worrying you, then do something about it. But make sure you communicate your intentions clearly, otherwise your words, deeds and/or actions could be misconstrued. And don’t be all talk and no action! Inspiration for the week is from Piscean playwright Henrik Ibsen: “A thousand words will not leave so deep an impression as one deed.”

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2022

Solutions – November 3 edition Sudoku hard No. 327

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

Solution next edition

Crossword No. 854

Aquarians are fiercely independent folk. You pride yourself on being able to do most things on your own but that’s not always such a good idea. This week Mercury and Venus transit into your networking zone, and Mars is still reversing through your friendship zone. So – at the moment – the secret to success is repairing (and rebooting) old relationships, as you work collaboratively and patiently with others. You’ll find many hands make light work!

Damien Lonergan Optometrist

Ross Collins Practice Manager

6189 5891 • evolveoptometry.com.au Shop G17, Gungahlin Village 46-50 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin gungahlin@evolveoptometry.com.au CityNews November 10-16, 2022 35