CityNews 230216

New prison data is an indictment of the ACT government, says JON STANHOPE

Differing voices test veracity of the Voice

MICHAEL MOORE

Mandarins and the peel-good factor

CLIVE WILLIAMS

An old favourite that keeps on flowering

JACKIE WARBURTON

is back, just for fun!

Dancer-cum-playwright GRETEL BURGESS turns the setback of her stroke into the theatre of hope

A year on, dogged protesters keep the flag flying

By Lily PASS

WHEN Russia invaded Ukraine a year ago, Marusya Jacyshyn decided she needed to do something to show her support for Ukraine.

“A friend of mine asked if I knew there was to be a gathering outside the Department of Foreign Affairs,” says Marusya, 75.

“I hadn’t heard, but I decided I was going. That was on the 25th of February.”

The following Sunday, Marusya –of Ukrainian heritage – travelled to Kingston from her Queanbeyan home to join a growing group, to stand outside the Russian embassy on Canberra Avenue in protest, and they have continued ever since.

“There is always one person, at least one person, standing there with a Ukrainian flag,” she says.

On February 24, the Ukrainian community and supporters will hold a vigil from 10am-5pm in front of the Russian embassy to mark the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion and full-scale war on Ukraine. A bell will be rung every hour, on the hour, to begin a minute of silence to remember the deaths of Ukrainian soldiers and

civilians.

Andrew Liszczynsky, 63, also of Ukrainian heritage, frequently travels from his Moncrieff home, sometimes with his children, to join the protest.

On Saturday the group can grow to more than 50 people of a range of backgrounds.

“Our goal is to protest until victory for Ukraine, to inspire the Ukrainian soldiers and people to keep fighting, to

show them they have support coming from across the world, especially in Canberra,” says Andrew.

But after nearly 365 days of protesting, Andrew says people are beginning to feel “protest fatigue”.

“I said, don’t be afraid to do something, even just something little, every day,” he says.

“It could be lighting a candle or putting a flag out the front. The worst

thing we can do is put our protests on

What continues to motivate them is seeing President Volodymyr Zelen-

“He said in a clip it’s not so much that he is brave, but that he doesn’t want to let people down,” says Andrew.

“That is true of all of us. We don’t

“He made commitments as president when he was elected, and he said he is sticking by them, and that is very

“He and the first lady could have left Ukraine or bunkered down, but he stayed and is filming clips in the streets of Kiev, to show the country

The Ukraine ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko has also offered his

“Russia needs to be stopped, and the protesters are a continuous reminder

“It is important that the Ukrainian community have the opportunity and the right to protest. I have been out there in Kingston a couple of times, to show my support and to thank them personally.

“It is vital for people to be out there, and it’s good to have the Australian reminder that the war in Ukraine is ongoing.”

The reactions from the drivers along Canberra Avenue also “usually” moti-

vate the group to continue protesting.

“For every 20 or so car horn beeps, you might get one person who says we are Ukrainian Nazis, but they are not worth responding to,” says Andrew. Marusya shares that some people go so far as to drive through puddles to splash mud on to her and fellow protesters.

“But that inspires us more, to keep going. We just think it doesn’t matter if we are hot, cold or splashed, it is nothing compared to what our Ukrainian soldiers and civilians are going through,” she says.

“Apart from the police, who are outside the Russian embassy most days as a ‘just in case’, we don’t have direct contact with the embassy,” says Andrew.

“Occasionally they wave hello with just one finger, and I yell back that it’s not very diplomatic of them.”

In terms of furthering the support they are receiving, Marusya says she has tried to reach out to the federal and local governments, but has been told a few times “it is too hard”.

“But Shane Rattenbury did come out once and he did facilitate, by putting me in contact with someone at the National Capital Authority, to light up Canberra’s buildings in yellow and blue, and that was a really powerful thing,” she says. “And [Senator] David Pocock and his wife have been with us a few times as well.”

Ukraine protesters Andrew Liszczynsky and Marusya Jacyshyn in front of the Russian embassy on Canberra Avenue, Kingston. Photo: Lily Pass

ACT holds its lock-up record for indigenous people

THE data revealed in the latest Productivity Commission’s “Report on Corrective Services” is an indictment of the ACT government.

It shows, once again, that the ACT locks up its Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents at a greater rate than any other Australian state or territory.

Worryingly, it indicates that the government is no longer committed to any of the ideals or principles that underpinned the original decision to establish the Alexander Maconochie Centre as a human rights compliant, rehabilitation-focused prison.

The report reveals that the crude imprisonment rate in the ACT per 100,000 men is 220.5 while that of women is 17.5. However, the crude rate of imprisonment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people per 100,000 adults in the ACT is 1770 while that of the non-indigenous community is 86.5. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples constituted 26.1 per cent of the AMC prisoner population despite being only 1.9 per cent of the ACT population.

The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander crude imprisonment rate ratio per 100,000 adults in the ACT is 20.5, that is, an Aboriginal person is 20 times more likely to be imprisoned

in Canberra than a non-Aboriginal person, which is the highest in Australia, and 20 per cent higher than the average across all jurisdictions.

The Australian Bureau of Statistics, in its latest report on “Prisons in Australia”, also reports that 96 per cent of Aboriginal prisoners in the AMC have served at least one prior sentence of imprisonment, which is the highest recidivism rate in Australia.

The ACT government is, of course, acutely aware of these dire outcomes and obviously conscious of the fact that when it comes to locking up Aboriginal peoples, we Canberrans are in a class of our own. However, the evidence suggests that while the government signals from time to time that it is aware of and determined to address these shocking outcomes, it knows that there is no broad community expectation, let alone pressure, for it to do so.

A couple of examples of the government’s blasé approach to promises it has made jumped out at me as I was re-reading the incoming ministers’ briefs prepared at the time of the last ACT election for the attorney-general, minister for corrections and justice minister.

Those briefs include the following gems: “In December 2019, the Minister for Corrections reported to the Legislative Assembly on the progress of the Reintegration Centre.

“The Budget bid to support the works

being undertaken will be submitted as part of the 2020-21 Budget process.”

“Key milestones achieved to date include:

• May 2019 design consultant appointed.

• December 2019, 80 per cent Preliminary Sketch Plan issued.

• May 2020 Development Application submitted.

• July 2020, 100 per cent Sketch Plan phase.”

The Reintegration Centre was championed by Greens leader Shane Rattenbury when he was corrections minister and was to be an 80-bed purpose-built facility intended to address the Australia-high incarceration and recidivism rates which exist in the ACT.

Unfortunately, for reasons that have never been explained, following the Labor/Greens victory in the 2020 election, the Reintegration Centre and the “Building Communities not Prisons” program (of which it was the central feature) were quietly abandoned. Whatever the formal reason for ditching the projects, the fact that the ACT has the highest rate of Aboriginal incarceration and the highest Aboriginal recidivism rate in Australia

suggests that it should be reinstated.

In a similar vein, the incoming minister’s brief highlighted another “priority”, indeed one described in the extract below as a “key election commitment”, which has, unfortunately, also been abandoned.

The briefing says: “Commission a review of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander over-representation in the justice system.”

“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are over-represented across the ACT justice system. Although over-representation is a persistent and growing problem across Australia with incarceration rates increasing by 51 per cent between 2012 and 2018, the degree of urgency in the ACT is more acute with a 135 per cent increase over the same period. Moreover, diversion rates are low.”

“We estimate that, to achieve parity with non-indigenous incarceration rates by 2060, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander incarceration rate would need to be decreased by

24.4 per cent by 2031 and 83.0 per cent by 2060.

“The directorate will work with relevant ministers, in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander representatives and community organisations to scope the review, establish terms of reference and a statement of requirements to support the review.”

Almost three years after this commitment was made by Labor and the Greens to institute, as a “priority”, an inquiry into Aboriginal overrepresentation in the justice system, not only has no inquiry been initiated, despite repeated requests from Julie Tongs, CEO of Winnunga Nimmityjah, and a range of other Aboriginal leaders for an inquiry, but that the incarceration rate has in fact worsened, and is the highest in Australia.

Where, one might ask, is Senator Lidia Thorpe, a former Green with guts and a conscience, when you need her?

Jon Stanhope was ACT chief minister from 2001 to 2011.

The ACT government is obviously conscious of the fact that when it comes to locking up Aboriginal peoples, we Canberrans are in a class of our own.

Charlie’s best friend is also Australia’s

voting for him, with the win announced at the end of last

“I’m certain that it was the big Canberra village that we’ve got that made that happen. I don’t think we’ve ever won a popularity contest, but Elton’s clearly tugging at heartstrings and that’s a good thing,” says Melissa, who shared their story on Facebook to get as many award-winning votes as possible for Elton and Charlie.

The chosen charity for Elton’s winnings, a $150 donation, is Stella Bella Little Stars

“It is an absolutely amazing charity. They often work in the background where people don’t often see it, making sure that families have little treats in hospital, to making sure families have the really important support that they might need or might become unafford-

says he has a genetic condition called DiGeorge syndrome, or 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.

“He was born with a severe heart condition, without a connection between his heart and lungs. So, he had a lot of heart surgeries to make him survive initially.

she says.

Elton has been through puppy school, adolescent school and is now doing formal training with ABCDOG Dog Training.

“It’s been wonderful, right from when Elton was a little puppy Charlie has had a num-

some public-access training as well. He’s had a few stints now in resuscitation and the emergency department, and we’ve spent quite a lot of time around pediatrics, in high-care and through day-stay as well.

“Elton has alerted to a number of seizures already. After

medical team has been pretty awesome.

“We spent a significant amount of time making sure we picked a dog with the right temperament to do this kind of work for Charlie.”

Melissa says it was lovely to see the community get behind

Bandannas back at the market

RELAY for Life team, the Bold Bandannas, return to the Belconnen Fruit & Veg Markets, 8am-5pm, on February 25 to raise funds for the Cancer Council, ACT. From their spot in the Piazza, they’ll be selling homemade preserves, pickles, chutney, lemon butter and sugar-reduced preserves, plus a range of hand-sewn items, including children’s dress-up clothes and dolls’ clothes. More from 6231 0761.

Brad loves space

ASTROPHYSICIST Brad Tucker will speak on space exploration and the space race at the February lunch meeting of the Tuggeranong Day VIEW Club at the Town Centre Vikings Club, Greenway, from 11am on February 21. Lunch costs $33 and visitors and interested ladies are welcome. RSVP to 0409 747017 or maleyjan@ yahoo.com by February 17.

Managing money

The next steps for Elton will be taken with some new boots.

“Hospitals can be pretty slippery so Elton’s boots make it easier to grip on, and they are also super dirty so they go on when he’s walking around, and off when he hops on to the bed with Charlie,” says Melissa.

DOWN SALE

CHRISTIANS Against Poverty is hosting a free, online money management course that promises to “develop skills to budget, manage debt, save and have more control of your finances”. It’s to be held over three Tuesday evenings in March (7, 14 and 21). Register for the CAP Money Course at capmoney.org.au, email capmoney@tbcchurch.com.au or call 0402 007551 by February 28.

STOCK

THE GADFLY BRIEFLY

Taking care with Taryn’s big message

I MUST admit I had not heard of the “body image activist, director, writer and speaker” Taryn Brumfitt until the prime minister announced her ascension to the role of Australian of the Year in the Australia Day celebrations.

That’s not her fault, of course. It’s mine because it’s obviously an issue that affects millions of people around the world.

She’s released four best-selling books, which totally escaped me. And as the official citation records, Taryn Brumfitt “leads the Body Image Movement, an Adelaide-based organisation that teaches people to love and appreciate their bodies. Her 2016 documentary ‘Embrace’ tackled the serious issue of women’s body loathing and Taryn’s path to body acceptance. It was seen by millions of people in 190 countries and is available on Netflix”.

We don’t have Netflix, but more importantly: “She released a documentary, ‘Embrace Kids’, in September 2022 that aims to teach nine- to 14-year-olds to move, nourish, respect and appreciate what their bodies can do” together with “a parenting book to assist teachers, parents, children and communities on fostering body positivity”.

This is where the rubber hit the road

in the Macklin household.

During a visit by friends with two beautiful daughters a few months ago, both of whom are within that 9-to-14 range, I casually remarked to one of them – in a happy, grandfatherly way – that she’d put on a bit of weight since we saw them last. I meant it just as part of a conversation about their progress in sport, school and sleepovers, but the response from the family shocked me to my boots.

Our children were both boys so I was unaware of the sensitivity of girls – especially in that age range – to comments about their bodies. And I was shattered by the thought that I might

have unwittingly contributed to some mental anguish with who knows what consequences for someone I cared for so much. It was an awful occasion and I still regret it.

Anyway, a couple of weeks later she and I had a yarn and I apologised; and we got back to our former goodnatured relationship. The little weight gain was a passing phase; and she’s just as lively and funny and beautiful as she always has been.

However, I was visiting an old friend in a nursing home the other day. He’s a rock-ribbed conservative and he was quite angry about Ms Brumfitt’s appointment. He blamed the Labor government, which I thought a bit rich, but he did say: “So what are we supposed to do? All take our clothes off and say how nice we look?”

High tea with a helping hand

He did have a point there, since there doesn’t seem to be any natural follow-up, unlike the activism of Grace Tame, for example, who got things moving on the vile creatures preying on vulnerable kids.

My only concern is one of health. Obesity is a serious condition, and there’s a danger that Taryn Brumfitt’s elevation might encourage some people to “love” a body that’s actually killing them. This was brought home recently with the TV coverage of Beyonce’s triumph at the Grammy Awards, where she and especially her female friends, seemed to be glorying in their obesity. And woe betide any person who dares to raise a hand of caution.

I’m not suggesting the judges erred in selecting Ms Brumfitt for the high honour and the exposure it usually brings to the award winner. But I do hope they have planned her year thoughtfully.

robert@ robertmacklin. com

THE local branch of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation is hosting a fundraising high tea at Gold Creek Station, Hall from 1pm on March 19. Tickets are $75 (early bird tickets $65) and include a glass of bubbly. There’ll be a lucky door prize, raffle and silent auction. Book before March 15 at trybooking.com/CDSVX

A view to the future

THE Gungahlin VIEW Club is holding its AGM at the Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club, Nicholls, from 11.45am on February 22. Lunch is $35 and RSVP to 0407 556460 by 9pm, February 17.

RSI group to meet

THE RSI & Overuse Injury Association is holding a coffee group at 10.30am on February 17 at 20 Genge Street, Civic. More from 6262 5011 or email admin@rsi.org.au

Rock swappers

THE Canberra Lapidary Club is hosting the free “Canberra Rock Swap”, at Exhibition Park, Mitchell. 8.30am-5pm, March 18-19. The club says dealers and fossickers will be selling jewellery, gemstones, fossils, rocks, mineral specimens and lapidary supplies.

Taryn Brumfitt… 2023 Australian of the Year. Photo: Salty Dingo

My only concern is one of health. Obesity is a serious condition, and there’s a danger that some people might be encouraged to ‘love’ a body that’s actually killing them.

Superb parrots.

Parrots caught in housing crisis

JUST half a per cent of the available tree hollows in Canberra’s woodlands are suitable nests for superb parrots, according to a new study.

Researchers at the ANU and the ACT government have found the search for a suitable nesting site can have a big impact on how many offspring the superb parrots are able to produce.

Superb parrots are a listed vulnerable species with a small resident population in Canberra.

Previously, research has shown that these sleek green birds depend on tree hollows for nesting, but that their preferred nest sites are extremely rare.

This prompted the researchers to ask whether pairs of parrots that monopolise nesting sites have an advantage when it comes to breeding success.

The study, published in “Animal Conservation”, shows that breeding pairs of superb parrots that successfully defended a suitable nesting site over multiple years produce more than double the offspring of unsuccessful pairs.

How differing voices start to test the veracity of the Voice

THE most cynical would well argue that the drive for a First Nations’ “Voice to Parliament” helps to cloud the other issues that are likely to cause political consternation.

The cost of living, relationship with China, the slow demise of Medicare and climate change are all issues that provide significant challenges for the federal Labor government.

The attempt by Chief Minister Andrew Barr to get broad Assembly support for the Voice has now failed. This is an issue that ought to be seeking unity through bi-partisanship.

An astute effort that was really designed to support the Voice would have gathered the numbers and ensured across-Assembly agreement before the motion was tabled for debate.

The fact that the motion was voted on party lines, means it really is a government position rather than a broad Assembly position. The message is clear. As I pointed out in August in this column, the referendum is a long way from a lay-down misère.

Divisions within the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community make the challenge even greater. The “Uluru Statement from the Heart” ought to have been a unifying call to action. People such as Prof Tom Calma, the Senior Australian of the Year, and Mick Gooda, the former Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander commissioner, are great supporters for the Uluru statement and its implementation through a Voice.

For non-indigenous people, it might seem hard to understand why people such as senators Lidia Thorpe and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price are not prepared to be part of this unifying force. However, differences of opinion within

All opinions welcome “CityNews” welcomes all opinions on the Voice. Respectful submissions of up to 750 words to editor@citynews.com.au, please.

There were around 500 different groups of Australia’s First Peoples before European settlement, spread across a continent similar in size to Europe. It ought not be surprising to find differences of opinion.

groups of people is nothing new. Look at factions within political parties as just one example. It should not be a surprise to find a divergence of view from such a

There were around 500 different groups of Australia’s First Peoples they were spread across a continent similar in size to Europe. It ought not be surprising, therefore, to find differences of opinion. Imagine seeking a single view from across the breadth and depth of Europe on almost any issue!

Former Greens Senator Thorpe is largely opposing the Voice as it does not go far enough in providing indigenous sovereignty. She made clear in her First Speech as a senator that she believes the solution to the injustices of the past lies in a treaty.

“A treaty is a written agreement between sovereign nations, and Australia is the only Commonwealth country without one with its First People”. And later, “that’s why a treaty must come before other debates, such as constitutional recognition, changing the date of Australia Day, or a voice to parliament”.

At the opposite end of the political spectrum, Senator Price believes in personal responsibility and argues: “I personally have had more than my fill of being symbolically recognised”.

She went on to argue “platitudes of motherhood statements from our now prime minister, who suggests, without any evidence whatsoever, that a voice to parliament bestowed upon us through the virtuous act of symbolic gesture

by this government is what is going to empower us”.

Where the two senators do align is that they are seeking to ensure our First Peoples are empowered. The difference of opinion that they have with other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leaders, is that they do not accept the Voice as a first step.

As Calma pointed out in an interview with Michelle Grattan, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders “don’t always speak with the same voice and we have different experiences, we represent different demographics and so forth”.

The nature of political debate is that the differences of opinion allow the strong view of the vast majority of indigenous supporters of the “Uluru Statement of the Heart” and the Voice to be sidelined.

The other lesson from “real” politics is understanding what is attainable as a first step – or “the art of the possible”. Perhaps this is where the Greens party room really differed from now independent Lidia Thorpe. Reflect on the disastrous vote by the Greens in failing to support Labor’s 2009 Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme, which set the climate action of this country back a decade.

A treaty may well be the long-term goal. The Voice is an important step forward and ought not be used as a diversion from other political issues.

A

fond farewell to our fearless film reviewer

AFTER 57 years sitting through the good, the bad and the ugly, and writing thousands upon thousands of movie reviews over more than half a century, Dougal Macdonald has reviewed his final reel.

Macdonald might very well be Australia’s oldest, most-experienced film reviewer and “CityNews” couldn’t be prouder of him, but at 88, the Bungendore local has decided to keep his sharp-witted observations of the silver screen to himself and retire from reviewing after 57 years.

“The first film I reviewed was in 1965 and here I am,” Macdonald told “CityNews” in a celebratory profile in October.

“My mother took me to see ‘Gulliver’s Travels’ in the early 1940s and that’s where it started,” he says.

“The first film I reviewed had Gina Lollobrigida, Sean Connery and Ralph Richardson in a thriller called ‘Woman of Straw’.”

In that piece I said: “He is a masterful wordsmith and writes with the adjectival passion of a 30-year-old –he’s naughty and nuanced, and has this constant, cheeky campaign to devise a context that will beat me into allowing him to use, shall we say, colloquialisms that might make an editor blush.

“And don’t get him going on why he’s not a critic…”

Too late: Macdonald said: “A critic analyses, a reviewer describes. My life in reviewing has been sitting in a cinema then helping readers to make their go or no-go decisions about what to see.”

Veteran cinema identity Andrew Pike agrees. He was running the Electric Shadows cinema centre and “it was very clear to us that Dougal had a huge impact on our audiences”.

“Dougal became a friend and was always welcome at the cinema, though we never discussed business or tried to influence his opinions, nor did we receive any favours. We would still have to weather the storm when a negative or ambivalent review came out,” Pike said.

“One of the key factors in kick-

Dougal’s review of an obscure French comedy called ‘Celine and Julie Go Boating’ (1974), which ran for a daunting three and a quarter hours, without an interval.

“At that time, Geoff Gardner and I occasionally hired The Playhouse theatre in Civic to show films there: an expensive and risky exercise.

“We were very nervous about showing ‘Celine and Julie Go Boating’ and the advance sales were appalling.

“Then Dougal’s glowing review appeared and we ran the rest of the season to full houses. I didn’t know Dougal at that stage, but felt enormous gratitude for the enthusiasm of his review. It was a pivotal moment in my career.

“Dougal always impressed me (and clearly our cinema audiences, too) with his frank, honest and very readable reviews. He was – and remains – a rare figure in the film reviewing fraternity.”

“CityNews” arts editor Helen Musa said: “I have worked with Dougal for a very long time, and have always admired his capacity to capture in words exactly what he thought of a film. There is an increasing tendency in reviewing to shy away from frank comments, but he never did that.

“Instead, clearly and eloquently, he said what he thought.”

Our pages are already a little emptier by his absence and I’m sure the paper and the wider community will join me in thanking dear Dougal for his beautiful words. It’s been a privilege to publish them.

‘CityNews’ editor IAN MEIKLE salutes the work of veteran film reviewer Dougal Macdonald as he retires from the paper…

When leaders veer off into a strange universe

IT would be a reasonable assumption that many readers of this column would have read about and possibly bought Niki Savva’s book on the former prime minister, “Bulldozed”.

It is highly recommended reading for anyone with an interest in contemporary politics and in human behaviour.

The truth is I nearly didn’t buy it. I’d reached a point last year that I didn’t want to think about that former prime minister and how his mob trashed democratic processes and conventions. You will note that I am refusing to mention his name.

In the end I bought the book just before Christmas and read it over the next four days. Savva has done a fantastic job of bringing together the many fragments of the last decade’s national politics.

An insider with contacts within the political parties and government ranks, she is one of many committed people who have remained loyal to their party as they knew it – but that party, the Liberal Party of Australia, has left her (and people like her) as it veered off into a strange universe of its own making. This is one of the major issues that is made clear in her book.

The book brings together many of the stories we had already heard (or

at least in part). The cumulative effect of all these complicated tales is that one ends up wondering – what the hell just happened (in the last decade)?

While the book tells heaps about that person and others linked to him, one is still left to ponder how did such a defective creature become prime minister. For almost 20 years so many knew what this person was like. Most of the players in the book were responsible, directly or indirectly, for this bloke becoming prime minister.

Despite Savva’s detailed accounts, it remains impossible to understand how that person thought and acted the way he did. There’s also the damning

question of how so many others enable crazy things to be done by leaders who exist in their own remote reality.

All of this is a reminder of how off the rails the leadership of the ACT’s Greenslabor government is. While the Liberal opposition has been in turmoil with crazy people pushing it into dark cul-de-sacs, Greenslabor has sailed on doing whatever it likes. This government has no hesitation letting voters know how much they no longer care what residents think.

They know that voters for the last decade have had little choice. The majority are forced to vote Labor or for the Greens or their proxies stand-

ing as independents. The Greenslabor leadership has now tightened its controls over most of the media, over the bureaucracy and over most of the local community and social welfare groups (not all).

The difference between the many infamous autocracies and this BarrRattenbury leadership continues to narrow daily.

There are many in this city who want to vote Labor and others who want to vote for the Greens. Like the national Liberal Party, both of these ACT political parties and their leaderships have little interest in these former loyal voters – leaving them frustrated and angry.

There was a bright note towards the end of Savva’s book as she outlines the run up to the 2022 federal election and how it unfolded with Anthony Albanese quietly entering the national stage as a welcomed prime minister.

While the former prime minister was voted out because he was someone people did not want to see or hear from ever again, Albanese’s entrance was a modest affair with such a large agenda being embraced eagerly. The contrast was so clear in Savva’s beautiful description of what happened on election night when Albanese decided it was time to leave his home and get on his bike to claim the victory.

Outside his house he was met by about 100 of his neighbours who were there to cheer and congratulate. Tells you something about the man and about the change that happened that night in May 2022.

Paul Costigan is a commentator on cultural and urban matters. There are more of his columns at citynews.com.au

Savva’s book is a reminder of how off the rails the leadership of the ACT’s Greenslabor government is. This government has no hesitation letting voters know how much they no longer care what residents think.

Niki Savva’s book “Bulldozed”... a fantastic job of bringing together the many fragments of the last decade’s national politics.

Pleased that pill testing makes ‘perfect sense’

I WAS very pleased to read that the early analyses of the pill testing service being trialled in the ACT have been positive.

It makes perfect sense to have such facilities, particularly given the tragic stories I have heard; where young people have died from not having pills tested.

The fear of legal ramifications for possessing pills have contributed to these devastating and needless deaths.

I was told that festival goers at the recent ‘Spilt Milk’ music festival attended the venue prior to the event, where they buried their pills due to the fear of being charged with possession of illicit substances on the day of the festival.

I am excited about October 2023 when the decriminalisation of drugs Bill will be introduced. As a community member, I would like to thank MLA Michael Pettersson for fighting hard to have the Bill passed in the ACT Legislative Assembly, and for the support demonstrated by Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith. Pill-testing facilities will fully complement the Bill.

While Deputy Opposition Leader Jeremy Hanson described the Bill as “dangerous”, it appears he may not be aware of the stories of people overdosing on illicit substances due to being fearful of criminal sanctions.

The Libs have said they will abrogate the Decriminalisation of Drugs Bill if they are successful in winning the next election; this has made it easy to identify my voting preferences.

Let’s get real; people are going to use substances whether they are decriminalised or not – let’s make it a safe experience for them; to have the option to have their substances tested so they can make an informed decision as to whether they wish to ingest them.

This realistically can be the difference between life and death of loved ones.

Janine Haskins, Cook

The bushfire cycle will be repeated

RIC Hingee’s reminder of recent government bushfire inaction (Letters, CN January 26) takes me back to 2003 when a lightning strike in the Brindabellas was allowed to burn for two weeks before it escaped to torch Weston.

Each evening the glow in the sky was

observed to achieve a greater intensity by the residents of Hawker until that fateful Saturday, when hot winds arrived from the west.

Only luck saved us. Similar luck for me prevailed on the more recent south coast fires. That fire also was allowed to develop over days before escaping.

Government action at the time was expected to adopt an RAAF squadron, equipped with Bombardier Scoop Bombers for early suppression, which had performed well in a trial visit earlier.

Such actions were not followed through, as a wet period took hold and priorities were revised.

An expected dry period will certainly follow with, as usual, no planning in place.

The lack of early fire suppression was clearly demonstrated in all these fire disasters but, as usual, the government will try to blame earlier inaction by others and the cycle will be repeated.

Ken Murtagh, Hughes

You’ll be old, too, one day, Rob…

I WAS saddened by the letter (“Floriade – it needs to go!”, CN January 26) from Rob Thomas. Firstly, that Rob cannot see the beauty in all the spring flowers and secondly that he sees the “bush capital is overrun with

silver-haired, flower obsessives needing their tulip fix” and calling them “octogenarian yahoos”. Rob then claims that “Commonwealth Park is jammed to bursting with young couples and families taking selfies”. Which is Rob Thomas more upset about? The oldies or the young couples?

Given so many people from Canberra and elsewhere come here to see Floriade, I would suggest that Rob Thomas is by far in the minority.

Don’t forget Rob, you too will be a silver haired octogenarian sometime in the future.

Vi Evans, via email

… And how do you feel about Christmas?

I SEE that Rob Thomas is irked that people come to Canberra to enjoy Floriade (“Floriade – it needs to go!”, Letters, CN January 26). How do you feel about Christmas, Rob?

Noel Beddoe, Belconnen

Keep the tram plan, change the route

USERS testify that ACT light rail Stage 1 is popular and operating well; and it’s now surely logical to continue with the citywide system, sensitively and expeditiously, for long-term benefit.

The “optics” and permanence of trams makes them appealing and reassuring, and can justify the cost, over time. However, tramline “land-value-capture” property development needs to be carried out more sensitively.

Because the Central National Area is involved, the Civic-Woden tram surely needs to service as many national attractions as possible. The current Civic to Capital Hill section, via City Hill, and Commonwealth Avenue, doesn’t do that; and critically, is mired in major planning, heritage, cultural-landscape, aesthetic, engineering, traffic, time and cost problems, mostly unresolvable.

With due substantial financial assistance from the Commonwealth, the Civic to Capital Hill tram route needs to change and be expedited to include, say, briefly, New Acton, the ANU, Acton Peninsula’s attractions, Griffin’s missing yacht-friendly lake crossing, Lennox Gardens North, Flynn Drive, Coronation Drive, Queen Victoria Terrace, Windsor Walk, State Circle, Capital Circle and on to Adelaide Avenue.

If Stage 2A (Civic to Commonwealth Park) won’t be stopped, then the tramline could leave Commonwealth Avenue at a stop just south of Parkes Way, and traverse Acton Foreshore (mutually benefitting the new property development there), to ANU south, the Peninsula, and on, as outlined above.

Jack Kershaw, Kambah

Thorpe’s Senate move ‘undemocratic’

SENATOR Lidia Thorpe’s defection to the crossbench was not entirely unexpected. She became a senator by default when former Greens leader Richard Di Natale resigned and is the epitome of Keating’s “unrepresentative swill”.

This now means that the Coalition is in a position to form an absolute majority in the Senate with the support of the independents and minor parties.

It was a very cunning move by Thorpe as she is now in a position to vote as she pleases by not being constrained by party rules, and it makes her a potential “kingmaker”. Albanese and Bandt are grinding their teeth, whilst Senator Lambie is all smiles.

Unfortunately, owing to our somewhat less than perfect system of governance we are stuck with her until her term ends

in 2028 and there is nothing anyone can do about it. It’s undemocratic as she was elected as a member of the Greens, not as an independent.

Mario Stivala, Belconnen

How about ferret racing, Russell?

THANK you, Russell Wenholz for your timely letter (CN February 2) alerting us to the disturbing news of a confused horse-racing calendar.

That said, I can never understand the attraction of watching potential zoo food being whipped around a grass track, shouted at by a mob of e-Bay dressed people.

Real people are found seated on a lump of 4X4 supported on cement bricks in an outer steel shed in the scrub attending ferret racing.

Ferrets live for up to 10 years (with some going on to 14), so a little bloke can own, train and race his ferret for a few bucks a week, so what’s wrong with that?

John Lawrence via email

It’s just weeds wherever you look

I FULLY agree with Ros Thomas (Letters, CN February 9): wherever you look, Canberra (the “garden city”) is infested with weeds, some shoulder-high.

It is also overrun by long, dry grass, just waiting for a careless spark. It is also not uncommon to see saplings growing in gutters, partially clogged drains, and even the joints between road surfaces and kerbs: if left unchecked, the saplings will become small trees and their roots will begin buckling and breaking both. Ms Thomas raised the issue of dead trees. In an earlier letter (CN January 26) I included a photograph of one dead and one dying tree at the intersection of Hopetoun Circuit and Macgregor Street, Deakin. These trees are now frequently dropping dead branches close to areas that are often busy with pedestrians, cyclists, joggers, children on skateboards, and older folk with their shopping.

Surely City Services can find the time to remove these unsightly hazards ... or are they too preoccupied with the plans for Light Rail Stage 2?

Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin

Cartoon: Paul Dorin

Mandarin oranges – and the peel-good factor

THOSE who read my previous column will be aware that it was about the colour orange and its links to Protestantism. This one is about oranges, the fruit, and my favourite orange – the mandarin orange.

Mandarin oranges are a small cit rus tree fruit and usually sweeter and easier to peel than regular oranges.

They are also high in vitamin C and antioxidants and low in GI – low Glycemic Index foods make you feel fuller for longer – so good for dieters.

(On the matter of weight loss, my doctor recommended a daily walk on an empty stomach – but he didn’t specify whose.)

Mandarins (no ambiguity intended) originated from China and Japan and spread around the world from the early 19th century. Though the ancient mandarin was bitter, most commercial mandarin strains derive from hybridisation with pomelo, which now makes them a sweet fruit.

Most Australian mandarins are grown in Queensland; the main growing season being March to September.

There are numerous types of mandarin, some of which are easy to peel and some not. Varieties commonly found in Canberra markets are:

• Afourer (often misspelt): A

popular mandarin with vibrant orange skin encasing easy-to-peel segments that are low in seed. Sweet juice.

• Clementine: Bred from mandarin varieties cultivated in the Mediterranean region. Tarter, easy to peel, quite juicy and seedless. Often imported from Israel and Spain. Can be more expensive.

• Daisy: A medium-large, mid-season mandarin with an attractive dark orange rind and aromatic flavour. Moderately seedy with one to three seeds per section.

• Golden Nugget: Hybrid from California. A deep orange colour with a moderately fine texture. Considered to be one of the very

best flavoured citrus fruits, with a rich, sweet, full-bodied taste.

Hickson: Reported to have originated near the town of Roma, Queensland. Orange-fleshed fruit, juicy with good flavour.

Imperial: Australia’s most popular commercially grown mandarin. Excellent quality fruit, medium to large in size, easy to peel, juicy with a great strong flavour and few seeds.

• Murcott: Smooth skin, bright in colour. Rich sweet flavour and high in juice and sugar content. Has a good shelf life and sweetly addictive taste. Sometimes marketed as “Honey Murcott”. The sweetest of all the mandarin varieties.

• Nova: Medium to large fruit. Rind that does not peel easily. Distinct aroma and a deep orange colour. High sugar levels resulting in a sweet eating experience.

• Ortanique: A cross between a sweet orange and a tangerine. Discovered in Jamaica in the early 1900s and continues to be produced there. Strong citrus

aroma and a tangy, slightly sweet flavour (sold at Fyshwick market as “Sweet and Seedless”).

• Sumo: Australian-grown, seedless mandarin. Sweet and juicy flesh. Large with identifiable “top-knot” (sold at Jamison market as “San Merino”).

• Sunburst: High quality, attractive fruit of the mandarin/ tangerine type with good flavour. Reddish-orange rind at maturity. Segments easily separated. Juicy fruit with dark orange flesh colour.

• Tangerine: Associated with Tangiers in North Africa, but the name now has more to do with public relations. Glossy, rough skin. Densely sweet, low-acid tangerines have a short aftertaste and few or no seeds.

• Tango: Seedless, juicy and sweet. Medium in size with a thin, easy to peel rind. Which variant you might prefer is literally a matter of taste and seasonal availability. Well there you have it. Everything you never wanted to know about mandarin oranges!

HUMOUR about oranges is hard to come by but this story may suffice:

Gerald was a single guy, living at home with his father and working in the family orange business. He knew he would inherit a fortune once his sickly father died. Gerald wanted two things from life:

• to learn how to invest his inheritance and,

• to find a wife to share his fortune. One evening at an investment meeting, he spotted the most gorgeous woman he had ever seen. To impress her he said: “I may look like an ordinary man, but in a few years’ time, my father will die and I’ll inherit $60 million.”

Impressed, the woman took his business card. Two weeks later, she became his stepmother. Women are so much better at strategic planning than men.

Clive Williams is a Canberra columnist.

Mandarins… a small citrus tree fruit, usually sweeter and easier to peel than regular oranges.

Experts who know what’s what and what’s best

WHETHER

THERAPY

Rebecca offers ‘unquestioning’ support for chronic pain

ARTHRITIS ACT can support people no matter what type of chronic pain condition they have, says CEO, Rebecca Davey.

“We have been growing slowly over the last six or seven years with a diverse range of services for pain management,” she says.

“We offer everything from educational talks to intensive care programs.

“People come to us because we know the condition. About 50 per cent of our staff live with chronic pain, so we understand how chronic pain can affect all parts of a person’s life.

“I am a registered nurse and midwife so health has been my life for quite some time.”

Rebecca says she worked in the hospital environment for 20 years before Arthritis ACT.

“I had reached a point in my life where I couldn’t stand on my feet for eight to 12 hours because of my chronic pain,” she says.

“So, getting involved in the arthritis community was the perfect fit for me.”

As an expert in the industry, Rebecca advises others to “always believe your clients, unquestioningly.”

“People can get really good at masking pain and putting on a brave face,” she says.

“In university, we are taught that eight out of

Arthritis ACT, Pain Support & ME/CFS ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au

CARE

Centre that supports client and the carer

BURRANGIRI Aged Care

Respite Centre in Rivett is an ACT Health site operated by The Salvation Army, says centre manager Diah Octaviana.

“The centre supports ageing Canberrans and their carer, through overnight planned, emergency respite care and post-hospitalisation support,” she says.

“In addition, a day centre program operates Monday to Friday, where clients can attend for as many days as they require.

“The role of Burrangiri is to help the aged living in the community and for their carer who might need a break from that role. Burrangiri essentially serves as a fully equipped home-away-from-home, with registered nurses and carers onsite.”

Diah, who has been with the Salvation Army since 2013, says Burrangiri’s respite offers a sense of routine, consistency and community.

“On the weekend, clients are more than welcome to sit in the sunroom, do a puzzle or enjoy our lovely outdoor setting.

The sunroom is equipped with reading materials, or they can have a chat with other people,” she says.

“The respite centre can also provide clients and their carers with a nonintimidating taste of residential care.

Diah says those caring for an ageing loved one will benefit from Burrungiri, which provides a safe, supportive environment for their loved one, while at the same time providing an opportunity for the carer to have a well-deserved break. Burrangiri Aged Care Respite Centre, 1/7 Rivett Place, Rivett. Call 6288 1488 or visit agedcare.salvos.org.au

it’s advice on lifestyle, law or lollies, Canberra has an expert ready to help.

No matter the challenge, there are experts all around ready to offer their insights. Here are some of the best…

Burrungiri centre manager Diah Octaviana (centre) and team.

Arthritis ACT CEO Rebecca Davey.

THE EXPERTS

Building well builds a reputation

JOHANSEN Constructions strives to deliver excellent commercial services at the best possible price, says contract administrator, Ben Huang.

The company offers door, internal ceiling, internal and external wall packages as well as external façade and cladding services.

“We started in 2016 with one qualified carpenter, our now-director, Chris Johansen and one apprentice, our now-site manager,” he says.

“Together, they focused on residential carpentry works to build experience and a great reputation.

“After delivering exceptional results in this space, the company continued to expand and now has a great reputation within the commercial carpentry niche.”

“Our ultimate goal at Johansen is to build a longlasting relationship with our clients.

“To achieve this, we always complete projects to the

best of our ability, being fully committed to delivering the best results.

“We also make sure that our team feels appreciated, consistently praising them for their great work, which helps to create a healthy work environment for everyone involved in our projects.”

Ben advises beginners in the industry that “attitude makes a big difference”.

“Employers appreciate people who go out of their way to learn and better themselves,” he says.

Johansen Constructions has employment opportunities for qualified carpenters, project administrators and an estimator.

Johansen Constructions, Unit 5-8/18 Ogilvie Crescent, Queanbeyan. Call 0448 739823 or visit johansenconstructions.com

RETAIL Sue says hemp can do ‘everything’

SOUTH Pacific Hemp is Canberra’s first all-hemp shop, says manager, Sue Booth.

“It was difficult for the owners to open initially in 2021 because hemp was considered a Class A narcotic,” she says.

“It’s time we moved away from hemp’s old reputation – hemp has strength, medicinal and nutritional value, and was first cultivated more than 10,000 years ago,” she says. some research on hemp.

awesome!’. I quit my job in the public service because I loved hemp so much,” she says. to muesli.”

and bedding, all made to promote wellbeing.

Sue says the store also sells salad dressings and a range of hemp flour, hemp protein and hulled hemp seeds that contain the highest-quality ingredients and are certified organic, vegan-friendly, gluten and GMO free.

“Hemp protects your skin by naturally filtering UV light. It also resists bacterial growth and breathes excellently, preventing odours, has four times the strength of cotton and it won’t weaken when washed,” she says.

“Hemp gives years of wear while its breathing ability,

We are your facade and interior solutions specialists in the Canberra region and NSW regional areas.

Johansen offers commercial services, including internal door and fire door packages, internal and external walls, external façades and more.

Linda Clee – Physiotherapist

Linda is an experienced physiotherapist having worked clinically in private practice for over 20 years, in rehabilitation settings and in community based aged care. Having owned and operated her own clinic for over 10 years, Linda offered a range of different therapy options, and has refined her skills and service offerings to ensure a functional focus to therapy; that is holistic and promotes overall wellness. A dancer in a past life, Linda loves to add a bit of fun in her programs, often throwing in rhythm and co-ordination challenges that are good for the body and the mind.

Sophie Bullock – Exercise Physiologist

Sophie has post graduate qualifications in hydrotherapy, and as a non-sports centred Exercise Physiologist, helps clients who struggle with engaging in exercise due to a lack of sports participation. Sophie’s goal is to improve clients health via our hydrotherapy program, gym instruction and in-home visits. Sophie also is known for her passion for working with children.

Natasha Perry – Exercise Scientist

Tash takes a wholistic view of all her clients, considering their mental wellbeing as much as their physical needs. Tash delivers our Nordic Walking, Pilates and Tai Chi programs, all of which have a mental as well as physical component.

Tash also leads our strength and balance program, supporting those with lower levels of mobility or have concerns over falls to regain their confidence, whilst also meeting a great bunch of fellow exercise class participants.

Dorothy Johnston – Exercise Physiologist

Dorothy is our newest graduate Exercise Physiologist who we employed because she was such an outstanding student. Dorothy excells with us, having a soft spot for both older persons with pain, but also a long history of working in disability services with children. Dorothy loves working with people to improve their pain and function, and always has a bright smile for everyone in her care.

Blake Dean – Exercise Physiologist

Blake has expertise in improving clients mobility and decreasing their pain through appropriate exercise. Blake delivers our ‘My Exercise’ program, targeting the relief of lower back and sciatic pain, shoulder and upper body concerns as well as leg, hip and ankle interventions – for those who do not qualify for physiotherapy-led GLAD programs.

Blake provides individual & group exercise for younger people with a disability. Blake treats clients in-clinic or via our hydrotherapy program as well as attending your gym with you.

Jacqui Couldrick – Physiotherapist

Jacqui has a particular interest in hip and knee osteoarthritis. Jacqui delivers the GLAD program designed to reduce the need for joint replacements, or if a joint replacement is unavoidable, to prepare you thoroughly for surgery and recovery for day to day tasks. Jacqui is studying towards a PhD in the outcomes of the GLAD program.

Holly Hazelwood – Exercise Physiologist

Holly is a former sports journalist who believed so strongly in the power of exercise to heal and nurture that she undertook her 4 year degree in Exercise Physiology. Holly is be able to work with people directly to support them through their pain journey and regain independence and a joy for living again. Holly provides one on one and group exercise classes both on land and at our hydrotherapy centres to support people to gain freedom from chronic pain.

PILATES GROUP CLASSES ON NOW – NORTHSIDE & SOUTHSIDE

DON’T FORGET ABOUT ACCESSING OUR OCCUPATIONAL THERAPISTS WHO HELP MAKE YOUR EVERY DAY TASKS EASIER

• Occupational Therapy – Assistance with the planning and modification of your home, workplace or car. Applications for NDIS, the Disability and Housing Support Pension, and also driving assessments.

• Physiotherapy – including the GLAD program for knee and hip osteoarthritis, sports injury prevention and rehabilitation, and pain condition support.

• Exercise Physiology – Individual exercise prescriptions, small group classes to increase strength and improve rehabilitation, strength and balance classes, hydrotherapy support.

• Dietetics – meal planning, weight management support, food intolerance support.

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

THE EXPERTS advertising feature

MECHANICS

Josh is passionate about working with diamonds

UNIQUE Diamonds has traded in Canberra for nine years, and as of right now Unique Diamonds is trading from Kingston, says co-director Emily Bennett.

Her husband Josh has been working in the industry for 14 years.

She says Josh found a love for diamonds after working with his uncle in Melbourne.

“Josh has always really enjoyed his work, and is very passionate about diamonds, they are hypnotic,” says Emily.

Emily says the only way to learn about the gems and the metals is to get experience and get involved within the industry.

“Jewellery is a lovely industry, we are making engagement rings and wedding rings and once you get a taste it becomes a very happy, addictive industry to work in.

“Diamonds, especially, are very intricate, they are just mind blowing,” says Emily.

Unique Diamonds outgrew its Braddon store and Emily says the Kingston store is much larger “to help make all the magic happen”.

“So now we have a store in Melbourne and Kingston,

Honesty is the best policy, says Raffy

CAR Mechanical Services in Fisher prides itself on honesty, says owner Raffy Sgroi. is being upfront, we tell our customers what needs to be done so they aren’t unpleasantly surprised with costs,” she says. in the industry for more than 40 years, and says their award-winning business has been successful because of “the amount of work we do and how we look after our customers”.

understanding with the customers, and we work to help a lot of communities,” says Charlie.

beautiful, always changing industry”. too, with lots of changes coming through with electric vehicles,” she says. join the industry is to persevere through both the good and bad times, and put your heart and soul into learning as much as you can.”

makes the dream work – “My wife knows I know how to run a workshop, and I know she knows how to do officework.”

maybe Brisbane,” she says.

Unique Diamonds, 64 Giles Street, Kingston. Call 6156 4278, or visit uniquediamonds.com.au

CANBERRA REGION LOCAL BUSINESS AWARDS

Winner of the most outstanding Automotive Services

Winner of ACT Business of the year

Car Mechanical Services always helping you go further.

of our character. We always strive to uphold our reputation as a personable and reliable service.

Our factory-grade diagnostic tools and honest answers provided by our knowledgeable technicians, we are your cost-effective alternative to dealerships. Providing the best auto repair in Weston Creek, means that our technicians understand that you want to preserve the quality of your car as much as possible. Properly maintaining your vehicle will help you prevent complicated repairs and damage in the future.

Car Mechanical Services, Unit 2, 82 Kalgoorlie Crescent, Fisher. Call 6126 4111, or visit carmechanicalservices.com.au

We are committed to being honest and reliable, providing you with a cost effective alternative to dealerships.

At Car Mechanical Services, we have been providing the very best in auto repair and maintenance.

Charlie has over 40 years first-hand experience in the motor vehicle industry. At our family owned and operated car centre, we believe our work is a reflection

We offer a variety of services to keep your car looking and running like new.If you are in need of general auto service, our expert technicians fix all makes and models of vehicles. Charlie, Raffy and the Car Mechanical Services team would like to thank all our loyal clients that voted for us again in the 2022 Canberra Regional Local Busness Awards.

So whether you need a complicated brake repair or just an oil change, you can count on us to get you back on the road quickly and efficiently!

Contact us: 02 6162 4111 | www.carmechanicalservices.com.au

Car Mechanic Services is committed to leading the industry in minimising the impact of its activities on the environment.

Car Mechanic Services has been working to achieve a sustainable future and to improve the social, economic and environmental well being of the community.

Our staff is committed to making the workshop cleaner and greener, with an updated environmental strategy. Establishing and implementing sound environmental management policies and

promotion of best practise in all areas of our business.

Car Service Canberra is now a Platinum member of Green Business Bureau 2023 and an ACT Government, Every Day Climate Choices Accredited Recycler. Ensuring that environmental risks are properly identified, prioritised and managed in an appropriate way Sourcing and promoting a product range (where applicable) to minimise the environmental impact of vehicles. We’ve gone less black more green.

The new Unique Diamonds showroom in Kingston.

Car Mechanical Services owners Charlie and Raffy Sgroi.

Working with you for the best result

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.

Capon and Hubert are proud that with them respect and courtesy always take priority.

Lawyers Ken Hubert, Ashilpa Khanna and Daryn Griffiths offer family law, conveyancing, wills and estate planning services.

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

“He is an accredited mediator and has been practising with confidence and compassion in Canberra for 40 years.”

Rhonda says Ashilpa Khanna joined the firm in 2017 to work in wills and estate planning.

“At the time of your loss, we know you need people who understand the challenges of this time and Ashilpa

Since 2018, Daryn Griffiths has led the business’ conveyancing team, focusing on buying and selling residential and commercial properties, says Rhonda.

“He can also assist with matters regarding contracts for retirement village accommodation,” she says.

“Many of our clients have been coming to us for a long time and much of our client base comes through referral.”

Rhonda says this speaks to 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

mrs.swag@lollyswagman.com.au

11

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

FURNITURE

Tony knows his hardwood furniture

SINCE 2003, Timberland Furniture has provided the Canberra community with a beautiful range of Australian hardwood furniture, says owner, Tony Purdy.

“We have almost anything the home needs: bedding, dining suites, TV units, coffee tables, buffets and more.” he says. Included is a range of Tasmanian Blackwood, one of Australia’s most beautiful and sought after timbers.

“Tasmanian Blackwood is a prestigious hardwood with a warm and natural colour,” he says.

“It can adorn different rooms of the house, and can be complemented by any piece of furniture. You can’t beat it as far as I’m concerned.”

Tony says his strong appreciation for Australian hardwood came from his short career in the NSW forestry commission.

He says size is often an issue for clients, so whether it’s a TV unit, bookcase or buffet table, Timberland Furniture can custom-make furniture to fit the space.

“We customise the size of a particular piece to meet the customer’s requirements and they choose the timber,” he says.

Timberland Furniture, 100 Barrier Street, Fyshwick. Call 6280 7411, or visit timberlandfurniture.com

constantly refreshing our knowledge, asking: What happened to those lollies?” he says.

“We’ve got American Reese’s, Hershey’s and candy corn, English bon bons and chocolates, sours and super sours, Dutch liquorice, Scottish tablet and our own Mrs Swag’s Fudge.

“I was a customer of Lolly Swagman for years before taking it over.

“There is a great tradition of lolly-loving in my family.

“My very first memory was by my grandad’s sick bed where he had piles and piles of sweets in metal tins.”

The business has a team of five employees with “a combined experience of more than 75 years,” says Ian. “The girls and I know what we’re talking about.”

Lolly Swagman, 11 Old Hume Highway, Berrima. Call 4877 1137, or visit lollyswagman.com.au

EXERCISE

Pilates tailored to the individual

TAMMY-JO Hunter is the driving force behind Studio Pilates in Braddon, Gungahlin and Manuka, says co-owner, Simon Hunter.

“Tammy is a physiotherapist by trade with extensive experience in sports physio and rehabilitation,” he says.

“She is also a qualified pilates instructor, currently studying to train new instructors and continue the professional develop ment of existing instructors.

“Our team of instructors are trained in anatomy and the specifics of reformer pilates to ensure they are well equipped to adapt workouts to all levels of mobility and ability.

“Instructors provide motivation and encouragement in the studio.

“The method of instruction is unique and enables individualised attention for technique correction and modification of exercises, matching the customer’s needs.

“Studio Pilates caters for all levels of fitness and all ages.

“The unique, reformer-based class can support people to gain strength and core stability through their 45-minute session.

“The program varies on a daily basis and is demonstrated via the Studio Pilates video network, providing visual and audio cues.”

Simon says the program can help the fit become fitter or aid in rehabilitation after an injury.

Studio Pilates. Visit studiopilates.com

THE EXPERTS advertising

ROOFING

Jibran likes to be on top of roof problems

MANAGING director of Alpha Roofing Canberra Jibran Jamil says his team manages all roofing needs.

“We are your one-stop shop in Canberra when it comes to any kind of roof work you are looking to undertake,” he says.

“Our services for both metal and tiled roofs include but are not limited to new roofs, roof insulation, maintenance, leak detection and repair, guttering and gutter guards, fascias, rebedding and repointing as well as full roof restoration.”

WILDLIFE

With a guaranteed seven-day quote timeframe and 14 days lead time from quote acceptance, Jibran says that Alfa Roofing Canberra pride themselves on great service, highest standards, crea tive solutions and a professional team.

“We provide solutions which a normal roofer wouldn’t think about! We think outside the box to make sure you get the best solution as no two roofs are the same,” he says.

Alpha Roofing Canberra, call 0458 807 882 or visit alpharoofingact.com.au

Getting up close and personal with animals

TARALGA Wildlife Park offers close-up and personal animal experiences, making it the perfect outing for the whole family, says owner John Stafford.

Just a 90-minute drive from the heart of Canberra, John says the park features a collection of native and exotic animals including waterfowl, parrots, dingoes, bettongs, emus, wallabies, deer, llamas, alpacas, miniature horses and many more.

“Children can interact with a wombat, lamb and guinea pigs in the friendship farm or make friends with sheep, goats or Poco the red deer in the walking area,” says John.

“The park also offers drinks and light meals or you can pack a picnic and enjoy the seated area or the large

spanse of grassed area while the children play on the park equipment overlooking the lake.

“We also cater for birthday parties, Christmas parties and other special events.”

Excitingly, John also says they’ve recently welcomed two new quokkas to the park.

“These wonderful little creatures, about the size of a domestic cat, are found in south-west WA,” says John. “Mainly nocturnal, we find the quokkas are still quite active and readily seen during the day.”

Taralga Wildlife Park, 257 Bannaby Road, Taralga. Call 0419 014540 or search Taralga Wildlife Park on Facebook.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

INSIDE Run rabbit, run rabbit, run, run, run… RICHARD CALVER

Hope springs from Gretel’s real story of a stroke

COVER STORY

By Helen Musa

A PLAY about the experience of having a stroke is about to take the stage in Canberra, but it’s been a long time coming.

“A Stroke of Luck” reflects the real-life story of stroke survivor Gretel Burgess, a dancer and social worker who, at 42, had a stroke while holidaying in the Daintree forest with her family.

She has, on her own admission, been blessed.

“I have been really lucky I had youth on my side and I had a dance background, which helped,” Burgess tells me.

Sure, she lost her driver’s licence, her abil ity to walk with ease and a bit of peripheral vision, but it wasn’t long before she got them back and was to work with stroke survivors every week, learning just how fortunate she had been.

Raised in Sydney, Burgess had initially trained in communications and theatre media at Charles Sturt University in Bathurst. A natural dancer, she travelled on a scholarship to a university in Padang Panjang in West Sumatra in 1999 to learn Indonesian dancing, a skill she was able to use dancing

The McDonald College in Sydney and by now a well-established director in Canberra. She would become director and dramaturg for s“A Stroke of Luck”. Although Burgess has discovered many

Centre in 2018, followed by a second such work at Belco in 2019, and a third in 2021. Finally, the idea coalesced into a full-length work in three sections, before, during and after the stroke, and last year

terror Burgess experienced in September 2014 when she was unexpectedly hit with a stroke. Here Chloe becomes herself as an eight-year-old, as the play focuses on the relationship between mother and daughter

In part 3, “Liability”, the action gets funny, for in developing the play, she and Buining discovered that some parts of her poststroke life have been not just a bit amusing

For one thing, Burgess developed a shopping addiction, buying 25 versions of the same dress, a dog costume, a trampoline and a holiday to NZ, which got the whole family into a lot of trouble.

According to Buining, dance-theatre is a very apt description of what the show is, with movement, costumes and a lot of props – think of all that shopping.

“We’ve never tried to make light of it, but Gretel has always been quite an eccentric personality so she always brings joy and 100 per cent of who she is to what she does,”

And does her play have a happy ending?

Well, she’s doing pretty well, having worked with children and teenagers with Down syndrome in Canberra, adults with stroke and acute brain injury and also teaching for the Wellbeing dance programs

But Burgess would prefer to say, it’s been “more like a case of making lemonade out of lemon juice, using something unpleasant to create something pleasant.”

“A Stroke of Luck”, QL2 Dance, Gorman Arts Centre, Braddon, February 24-26.

Dance commission means the world to Canberra

By Helen Musa

CANBERRA Theatre loves nothing better than a world premiere, and it’s hit the straps with Sydney Dance Company’s “Ascent”, co-commissioned by Canberra Theatre Centre.

Although the company has become a permanent fixture in the Canberra Theatre’s annual season, the co-commission is a first initiative, part of the theatre centre’s drive to make itself central to Australia’s performing arts scene while it gears up for a new building.

Billed as full of “electric movement and emotional force”, “Ascent” is intended to portray the “now” in dance, but it’s not entirely new.

The centrepiece of the triple bill will be the reprise of a groovy work, “Forever and Ever” by the Hamilton brothers – choreographer Antony and composer Julian Hamilton, known as half of the electronic music duo The Presets. Together the brothers have woven dance and music together to create what they call “an eerie and jarring” milieu.

The actual world premieres will be two new creations, “I Am-ness” by the artistic director of Sydney Dance Company, Rafael Bonachela, and “The Shell, A Ghost, The Host & The Lyrebird” by Spanish choreographer

Marina Mascarell, who is about to move to Copenhagen as the new director of Danish Dance Theatre, a company often likened to Sydney Dance Company.

There’s more than a bit of serendipity in having her here, as Bonachela explains when we catch up.

Although he comes from Barcelona and Mascarell from Valencia, they have Spanish in common and a lot more. Bonachela, for instance, under her close tutelage, is learning how to make a really good Paella, Spain’s most

famous dish but one originating from Valencia. It rather tickles him that they both have international careers, but not in Spain. Nonetheless, old habits die hard, and he’s really enjoying their get-togethers – “there’s something about being Spanish, the laughter, the joy of spirit,” he says.

Bonachela admits that the 35-minute

Hamilton work is the centrepiece of the show. It’s only been shown in Sydney and he wanted to take it to the rest of Australia, so has built a triple bill around it.

It’s six years since they’ve had an international choreographer working for the company, so he’s obviously excited about having Mascarell on board to create

her 30-minute work.

Known for approaching the dancing body as a form of resistance rooted in political and social action, her choreography has never been seen in Australia, but most of her collaborators are Australians. Her composer Nick Wales, with whom Bonachela himself frequently works too, previously created music for a production by Mascarell with Lyon Opera Ballet in France.

Her chosen designer is Australian contemporary artist Lauren Brincat, who has created a set made of sails from boats – “very light but very beautiful” Bonachela says.

As for Bonachela’s own work, “I Am-ness”, it’s just 13 minutes long, set to beautiful music by Latvian composer Pēteris Vasks.

“I’m in love with his beautiful violin and string orchestra,” he says, adding that he hopes it will make the evening complete.

“I feel that for contrast I want to do something gentle and pure and soft…I’m usually all-go but this will be done in a gentle way,” he says.

“Never in my 15 years at the Sydney Dance Company have we premiered outside Sydney.

“When we proposed to have the world premiere of two works in Canberra, the Canberra Theatre Centre jumped in and made it happen.

“They’ve invested in the work and Canberra’s name will go along with the production around Australia and overseas –that’s a wonderful thing.”

Sydney Dance Company, The Playhouse, March 9-11.

SUNDAY ROAST

Run rabbit, run rabbit, run, run, run…

Tonight we’re having Himalayan rabbit stew for dinner. We found himalayan in the road.

TWENTY twenty three is the lunar year of the rabbit. Apparently, the rabbit symbolises abundance, longevity, peace and prosperity. It’s supposed to be the luckiest of the 12 animals in the Chinese zodiac. Cam Zang writing on the StyleCaster website says: “Don’t be fooled; these cute, fluffy creatures are more than just docile and adorable companions.

DINING / The Marion, Regatta Point

High-tea inspires lunch date

RESTAURANTS are like people. They have good days and bad days.

The Marion now has an à la carte lunch menu and we were keen to visit having been treated like queens during our high-tea experience.

The service on this visit was the opposite, but more on that later. Let’s talk food.

Lunch is two courses for $65 or three courses for $75, Monday to Friday. Choose from four entrées, four mains and four desserts. Add $9 for sides, whether French beans, a salad or frites.

The menu is a lovely read and selecting was a struggle since so many dishes sounded delicious.

The lobster bisque entrée (an additional $6) looked pretty on the plate, with the large ravioli stuffed with lobster tail. It was perched on French petite peas. One of our party felt the bisque wasn’t intense enough.

I ordered the superb smoked fillet of beef tonnato. I was drawn to the crispy capers and finger limes, which I adore. The sauce was well-balanced and thin slices of red and purple radish and rocket adorned the dish. The shaved, aged parmesan rounded out the flavour profile.

Mains hit the spot, especially the herb-crusted lamb backstrap, juicy and

caponata was bold and the labneh thick and creamy. The bit of basil oil poured on top was gorgeous.

The Marion’s dishes are inspired by the globe and effort is invested in sourcing top-quality, seasonable and sustainable produce. That includes the Aquna Sustainable Murray Cod. This premium, pond-grown cod offered wonderful flavour and married well with roasted cauliflower, and a browned almond and caper butter sauce. Toasted almonds added texture.

Desserts didn’t disappoint, although

my lemon and lavender crème brûlée was too sweet for my personal taste. I should have stuck to the Canadian component of my palette and ordered the steamed maple syrup sponge. I stole a taste of my friend’s and it was lovely with the tonka bean Chantilly cream. Also gorgeous was the pear and gingerbread crumble.

The Marion showcases sensational views of Canberra all-year round. The restaurant is managed by the Grand Pacific Group (Sydney) which boasts it’s an iconic hospitality leader. The service was painfully slow from go to whoa and our waitress was wobbly on the menu (it was her first day).

We waited and waited for every course and more than once went to the bar ourselves to order. Eventually, this was acknowledged, and we were told the restaurant was one staff member down and struggling to deal with the group in the function room. We were offered a free drink each, which we enjoyed while exer cising more patience before desserts finally arrived.

“Rabbits are known to be incredibly witty, outgoing, well-spoken, creative, empathetic, thoughtful and meditative; the water element of 2023 means this year will bring even more introspection, peace and hope.”

Cute and fluffy? Chinese symbolism may attribute glorious characteristics that beckon peace and hope but in this neck of the woods, they are a curse. The myxoma virus killed them in vast numbers in the ‘50s but they resurged. The Australian and NZ bush is still alight with their pestilence despite myxomatosis and calicivirus.

In our lexicon, rabbits are not soft, warm, fluffy creatures but thin, brown, ugly devastators of pasture and native plants. They should be treated as such. My view is that the best way to celebrate the Lunar New Year is to eat the rabbit.

Farmed rabbits are good to eat but Richard Odell, of the Griffith Butchery, told me he has given up stocking rabbit, farmed or otherwise: “The prices of farmed rabbits are exorbitant and you can’t get local rabbit meat for love or money. Nobody can trap or shoot them, yet they are all around Canberra rooting themselves silly.”

On the off chance that the White Rabbit Cocktail room on Northbourne Avenue might offer its namesake on a plate, I called and spoke with Grace Cousins, a manager there: “Not that particular cuisine”, she said, “I don’t think our clientele would go for it. We’re an ‘Alice in Wonderland’ theme.”

So I couldn’t go any further down the rabbit hole of culinary inquiry. But I do remember eating farmed rabbit at the Green Door restaurant in Beechworth, Victoria. That place now seems

to be closed. My then partner and I had an expensive pinot noir with the rabbit and whatever she ordered. The wine and her choice are both lost to memory. I know at the time I thought the match of pinot noir and rabbit excellent. But is that because I’m biased, especially towards good Otago Kiwi pinots? It seems not.

If you ask the internet: why pinot noir with rabbit, you get a couple of vindicating answers? The UK Wine Society says that pinot noir or a light gamay “marries beautifully” with rabbit, but gives no justification. The “Wine Spectator” question and answer web link says: “Since it’s a mild-tasting and lean meat, if it’s prepared simply, I’d recommend a light-bodied wine that wouldn’t overpower it, such as a delicate pinot noir or a white Rhône-style wine.

“If it’s prepared in a sauce, do your best to match the wine with the sauce.”

I believe that the Rhone-style whites referred to in this quotation would be wines based on viognier, Roussanne or Marsanne. I’d match the rabbit with a 2017 Burge Family Wines’ 2017 Roussanne Semillon, which has a great herbal, full-textured flavour.

The point is that rabbits cause hundreds of millions of dollars a year in damage to the Australian economy. One researcher in 2009 estimated that this figure was about $206 million a year, a figure that has surely increased over time.

Sure, give a respectful nod to the Chinese horoscope but don’t be fooled that these creatures are, in reality, beneficent. Eat them.

RICHARD CALVER says the best way to celebrate the Lunar New Year is to eat the rabbit… with a nice pinot noir, of course.

Fiennes makes a menacing meal of ‘Menu’ role

MIXING horror, comedy and thriller together into a sizzling pot of genre ingredients, “The Menu” is the film to stream this month.

Served up on Disney Plus, this creepy takedown of pretentious fine dining stars Ralph Fiennes in one of his most menacing performances.

He’s Chef Slowik, a meticulous genius, a worshipped cook with a restaurant on its own island – one that sets its absurdly rich customers back more than $1200 just to get in the door.

We board the boat that travels to this island with 12 of these connoisseurs eager to experience the culinary creativity of Slowik.

With each dish, the food becomes more absurd and more hilarious.

From foam and leaves to a bread plate which abstractly features no bread, the courses are ridiculous and yet somehow not far from the real world of lavish cuisine.

Salivating over every dish is Tyler (Nicholas Hoult), an obsessive foodie who unwittingly worships whatever is put on his plate.

He’s contrasted by his date Margot (Anya Taylor-Joy) who’s not having a bar of all this pretentious nonsense, at one point referring to the island as “the base camp of mount bullshit”.

While “The Menu” starts with this simple fun poking at fine dining, it’s not long before things take a sinister turn.

With each dish the meals become

increasingly macabre, transforming what was supposed to be a night of dining into surviving.

is just how unpredictable each of its five courses are. It’d be a joy to put into words just a few of the bizarre “meals” that have been conjured up here, but to do so would be spoiling what makes the film so much fun. The anticipation to see what insane delicacy is up next is what makes it tick.

It’s not quite cooked to perfection and the ending will leave some viewers divided, but “The Menu” is one film that goes down a treat.

is the true story of the star of the British series “Crossroads”, a dirt-cheap soap opera that kicked off in 1964 and stayed on the airwaves for 28 years.

While “Crossroads” and Gordon’s unceremonious sacking from it in 1984 is what she’s most known for today, “Nolly” attempts to rewrite her legacy by highlighting the remarkable and seemingly unsung achievements of the TV stalwart.

Bonham Carter’s lived-in performance makes “Nolly” not only a heartfelt tale of a real-life figure, but also an intriguing look at the evolution of the TV industry.

NETFLIX is again proving its penchant for making weird animal documentaries.

It’s hard to believe that almost three years ago now “Tiger King” took the world by storm with its magical and mullet-sporting zookeeper Joe Exotic.

Later there was “My Octopus Teacher”, a surprisingly emotional tale about a man and his eight-legged best friend.

This time the animal is a little more domestic, but no less absurd. “Gunther’s Millions” is a four-episode docu-series about the world’s richest dog – worth more than $US400 million.

The German shepherd inherited the fortune from a countess who died in 1992.

The cashed-up pooch has more than two dozen staff who cater to its every need, lavish portraits, and even travels by private jet. “Gunther’s Millions” is a show that, if absolutely nothing else, will serve to get people talking.

Her new streaming biography here comes from the mind of prolific screenwriter Russell T Davies, known for his work on “Doctor Who” and more recently “It’s A Sin”. That sort of penmanship combined with

Between this and the recent decision to get rid of password shar ing, it seems Netflix is going barking mad.

ARTS IN THE CITY Getting ‘Personal’ with Mary Coustas

MARY Coustas, famous as Effie in the sitcom “Acropolis Now”, is bringing her family characters to life in her one-woman show, “This Is Personal”, directed by Blazey Best, at The Playhouse, March 3-4.

CHARIS

Bateman, seen in the role of Estella in Budding En tertainment’s production of “Great Expecta tions”, has a speaking role as Charlotte in Canberra filmmaker Ché Baker’s new feature film “States of Mind!” The movie is set in a meditation retreat at a haunted house. Baker says he is aiming for a Halloween release next year.

Charis Bateman… speaking role in upcoming movie.

Mary Coustas… The Playhouse, March 3-4.

Old favourite keeps on flowering

cut the leaf away from the stalk, turn over and make slashes along the undersides of the main veins, turn back and pin down on to seed-raising mix. Keep the leaf in contact with the potting mix and keep it moist to encourage new growth from where the cuts were made.

All begonias need good drainage, and do better in pots and hanging baskets where the flowers can be seen and cascade.

Best grown in partial shade or filtered light, with cool nights and protection from the winds, it is a lush tropical plant with attractive foliage and flowers continuously until the frost comes.

The colours range from whites and pinks to vivid reds; there are so many to choose from.

Most importantly, to keep a begonia flowering at its best, pinch out the female flowers (the ones with four petals) and leave the flowers with multiple petals as they are the male flowers and have much showier blooms.

A little compost or slow-release fertiliser is all they need to grow well, but don’t overdo the food or it could lead to stem rot and fungal conditions.

There are other types of begonias that can be grown in our climate as well, such as wax begonias, painted-leaf begonias and the everpopular rex begonias, all worth a try.

The venation and leaf shape of begonias are striking; it’s a terrific looking plant even when not

Propagating is done best now as a leaf cutting.

Single-leaf cutting produces many plants, making a quick way to increase a collection. Using a large leaf,

Once there is good growth on the new plantlet, remove from the old leaf, put it in a potting mix and keep it indoors until spring.

Begonias can be treated as annuals, or they can be stored for replanting when the weather has warmed after winter. To store tubers for their winter dormancy, remove all the leaves from the plant and top up with fresh potting mix in autumn. Keep dry, place in a dark place at the back of the garden shed and don’t water until spring or when you see new growth, then bring them out into dappled sunlight.

POTATOES also like dark places. They are in abundance in my garden now. Potatoes are easy to grow for the home gardener and can be a good use of soil in a large space.

They flourish in good, fertile, well-drained soil and are slow growers but a long-term crop and bang for your buck.

Messy plants to grow, potatoes need some room. Once the flowers and foliage begin to wilt and die, they’re ready to harvest.

They can be dug up all at once, and if grown well over the summer, the yield should be at least six to seven kilograms from every kilogram planted.

Leaving potatoes in the ground and harvesting when needed is called “bandicooting”, using your hand to gently move around the soil underneath the plant to harvest.

There are two main groups of potatoes’, they

are either floury or waxy to eat. I have one of each, Otway Red and Dutch Cream.

Otway Red is best for baking, frying and roasting; Dutch Cream, for salads, casseroles and soups. Both store well and are versatile in the kitchen. Planting time is around October through to November. Plant in full sun, in good weed-free soil that’s not too rich with organic matter.

jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au

Jottings…

• Sow winter vegetables – swede, turnips, carrots.

• Transplant cabbages, cauliflowers, celery, broccoli, brussels sprouts and lettuce.

• Plant winter flowers such as alys- sum, calendula, pansies and violets.

• Liquid fertilise all plants in the cool of the day.

Tuberous begonias… best grown in partial shade or filtered light.

Photos: Jackie Warburton

Potatoes… Dutch Cream, left, and Otway Red.

HOROSCOPE PUZZLES

Your week in the stars

By Joanne Madeline Moore

20-26 February, 2023

ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

You’re prone to fiery pronouncements and extravagant exuberance this week, as you over-promise, overspend or overextend. Enthusiasm is high but don’t jump to hasty conclusions and pass on incorrect information. Get the facts straight, otherwise embarrassing mix-ups are likely (especially involving friends or finances). Do your best to divert excess energy into a challenging project that is ambitious and adventurous, but also realistic.

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)

This week the Sun and Uranus rev up your motivation and boost your Bullish bravado. But you could also feel rather rushed and slightly unsettled. Cool down and calm down! Aim to do plenty of physical activity, so you can channel your restless energy in pleasant and productive ways. But being overly proprietorial about a person or situation will only lead to a fraction too much friction. Strive to be less stubborn about people, possessions and work.

GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

Geminis are clever communicators but are you confident enough for big-time success? With seven planets activating your career and aspirations zones, a golden opportunity is waiting in the wings. But you must grab it when it appears, or it will pass you by. Proactive Mars is charging through your sign, so stop overthinking and start doing! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great, writer Anais Nin: “Good things happen to those who hustle.”

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

The more intently you micro-manage relationships, the more family, friends and colleagues will distance themselves from you. And if you are too bossy, then power struggles are likely. You’re full of information and ideas and are keen to teach or instruct others, but don’t assume you have all the answers. Crabby hubris will just put others off, so aim to be more inclusive and consultative. Wednesday and Thursday are good days to redesign your dreams.

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

Have you been feeling like a tired and listless Leo? This week – courtesy of the restorative, transformative New Moon – you’ll feel your mojo, motivation and Lion’s roar returning. So, find a challenging project to direct your energy into. Mercury and Mars also encourage you to be much more positive when communicating with others. A sunny smile and an encouraging comment will get you a lot further than feisty fireworks and theatrical foot-stamping!

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

The planets could generate a lucky break involving a partnership, joint venture, travel opportunity or educational project. So, get your ideas out there (in person and online) as you inform and entertain others with your mercurial mind. A major relationship (of the romantic or platonic variety) could go through a New Moon metamorphosis. Do your best to air any concerns in a respectful way, as you work through problems that have been holding you back.

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

Monday’s positive Venus/Pluto connection encourages passionate feelings and intense interactions. Up until March 25 (under the influence of dynamic Mars) strive to be more proactive and adventurous about pursuing your Libran aspirations for the future. Draw inspiration from birthday great, writer Anais Nin: “Throw your dreams into space like a kite, and you do not know what it will bring back. A new life, a new friend, a new love, a new country.”

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

Expect some drama at Casa Scorpio as Venus and Pluto increase your magnetism – and then Mercury and Uranus rev up your tendency to tempestuous behaviour. You’ve got the power to inspire others and transform your own life. So do your best to find appropriate ways to let off steam and choose positive and challenging projects to channel your intense energy into. Otherwise you’ll just drive family, friends and colleagues crazy with your capricious ways!

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

It’s a wonderful week to entertain at home with a special meal, as the planets stimulate your family and friendship zones. Convivial conversation is a bonus. Being of service to others (with kindness, compassion and style) also brings much joy and satisfaction. Plus take the time to savour and enjoy the simple things in your everyday life – like a kiss from a child or a walk in the park. But avoid making a rash comment (in person or online) that you later regret.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

This week there’s a New Moon, the transformative Venus/Pluto link activates your sign, and proactive Mars stimulates your daily routine zone. So, it’s a good time to grab the Goat by the horns and initiate some long-overdue changes, especially involving work, health, education, communication, business and/or finances. Be inspired by fellow-Capricorn, writer Simone de Beauvoir: “Change your life today. Don’t gamble on the future, act now, without delay.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Mercury and Uranus disrupt domestic harmony but don’t let it disturb your equilibrium. The secret to success is learning to let go, as you keep what’s working in your life and discard what isn’t. (But you may have to lose a current battle in order to win the long-term war.) Opportunities for growth come from loved ones, as you realise who has your best interests at heart. It’s also a good time to express your creative side and appreciate the talents of others.

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

The stars bless creative projects, boost intuition and help you get lost in a fabulous fantasy novel or a favourite romantic movie. With the Sun, Moon and Neptune illuminating your sign, you’re keen to please others. But avoid the temptation to say ‘yes’ to everyone and everything, like an indecisive doormat. You may find you’ve bitten off more than you can comfortably chew! Confidence is high on the weekend so make the most of it.

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2023

General knowledge crossword No. 868

Luisa Capezio, Aged Care Adviser | Craig Phillips, Senior Financial Planner

Financial considerations when moving into a

Across

4 Who, in Greek legend, was the daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra? (7)

8 Which Dutch humanist, scholar, and theologian, published the first Greek edition of the New Testament? (7)

9 Name an alternative term for lockjaw. (7)

10 What is another word for sluggishness? (7)

11 What is the practice of cultivating land? (7)

12 What is another name for a weasel? (6)

14 Name the positive poles of batteries. (6)

18 Which polygon has six angles and six sides? (7)

21 Name a plant of the mint family. (7)

22 To be much smaller, is to be what? (7)

23 What is a building of imposing appearance? (7)

24 What is a leather case for a pistol, attached to a belt? (7)

Solution next edition Down

1 Name a US film producer and director, Cecil B ... (2,5)

2 What relates to a short appearance in a film by a celebrity? (5)

3 What describes an indefinite very large number? (7)

4 Name another term for a housing development. (6)

5 To praise highly, is to do what? (5)

6 Which large drinking cup has a handle and sometimes a hinged cover? (7)

7 What is a passageway between seats in a church? (5)

13 Name the unit of magnetic flux. (7)

15 What is an agent of retribution? (7)

16 Who was noted for slips of the tongue whereby sounds of words are transposed, The Rev WA ...? (7)

17 What do we call one who makes hoarse or harsh sounds while sleeping? (6)

18 What is a coop for confining rabbits? (5)

19 What is meal, produced from grinding? (5)

20 Name a Hindu religious ascetic. (5)

Moving into a retirement village can be an attractive option for many people approaching retirement, providing the opportunity to both downsize and transition into a supportive and secure community.

There are significant financial considerations that must be taken into account before deciding if a retirement village is right for you, as these can have a major impact on the long-term sustainability of your finances.

In terms of ingoing fees, when entering a retirement village you will generally be required to pay an entrance fee, sometimes referred to as the purchase price and possibly an upfront management fee. These fees can vary depending on the particular village and the services they offer so it is important to read through all associated contracts in detail before signing any documents. In addition, there may also be other fees such as stamp duty or legal costs which can add up; speaking with an experienced financial advisor and lawyer is recommended when considering these costs.

Ongoing fees associated with living in a retirement village could include service charges, rates, utilities and insurance which should all be taken into account when budgeting for future expenses. It is important to remember that some of these costs may increase over time due to inflation or other factors so it is wise to ensure you are able to comfortably cover them in your finances well into the future.

Exit Fees refer to costs incurred upon leaving the retirement village often referred to as deferred management fees along with resale costs including real estate agent commissions, legal expenses and refurbishments. Some contracts even offer a percentage of the capital gains if any. It is essential that you understand how these fees are calculated as they can significantly reduce any return of monies made from selling your unit in the future.

Overall, understanding the financial considerations of moving into a retirement village is key when making an informed decision about whether this option is right for you. Taking time to look at all associated costs including ingoing and ongoing fees as well as potential exit fees in order to ensure long-term sustainability of your finances will help avoid unexpected surprises down the line.

To learn more, call us on 1300 10 22 33 or book a 15-minute call (at no cost) via our website phillipswp.com.au

Disclaimer: This column contains general advice, please do not rely on it. If you require specific advice on this topic please contact Phillips Wealth Partners or your professional adviser. Phillips Wealth Partners Pty Ltd ACN 624858420 is a corporate authorised representative of Insight Investment Services Pty Ltd AFSL 309996.