RACIAL GUBBA-GAMMON, ACT Minister for Indigenous Affirmations (aka KEEPING UP THE ACT) shares tips for effective virtue-signalling
MICHAEL MOORE
Ivy, the ‘little ferret’ who fought hard to be heard
NICHOLE OVERALL
Here’s a tricky plant fussy about the frost
JACKIE WARBURTON
… and husband Charlie’s okay with that. Meet a new Australian Women’s Small Business Champion.
JON STANHOPE &
look at how the ACT government is failing the indigenous community
OCTOBER 5, 2023
KAHLID AHMED
outdoors a lot of the time,” he said.
“And all of these things are very protective against the development of myopia.
IT was Tom Rogerson’s childhood in the south-east African country of Malawi that laid the foundations for a career in medicine, specialising in ophthalmology, where today he serves as a registrar at the Canberra Hospital’s eye clinic.
Those early years in Malawi also set Tom on a course that would later see him providing valuable humanitarian aid in a bid to prevent – or treat – any number of mainly young people suffering from a variety of ophthalmic problems who would otherwise not have access to such a service.
The heartbreaking memories of Malawi are indelible – seeing poverty and deprivation an Aussie kid would seldom have to bear witness to.
His parents were medical practitioners who were working there – his father an infectious diseases doctor who was treating malaria and his mother a neonatologist, specialising in care for newborn babies.
As a child, driving through Blantyre and around the outskirts, you would see parents selling their children for food,” he vividly recalled.
To Tom, now 29, it sparked an
insatiable desire to do his bit to make a difference, in whatever way he could.
“Malawi is often ranked as the poorest country on earth, poorer than North Korea, Rwanda or Sierra Leone,” he said.
“The sort of poverty that we experienced was devastating. We lived through a famine while we were in Malawi where my family would have to slaughter our pets in order to feed ourselves.
“That motivated me to pursue that passion for service and passion for my community in a variety of different ways.”
Back in Australia, Tom threw himself into a number of volunteering roles, from helping out in the Mary Magdalene soup kitchen in Adelaide to later joining other professionals in the Sight for All Foundation after getting into medicine.
“As an ophthalmologist you have a massive capacity to impact people through your outreach trips,” he said.
At the time of publication, Dr Rogerson was heading up a team of 10 professionals and support staff on an ophthalmic research and humanitarian aid trip to Laos, in south-east Asia.
He said Laos was chosen notably
Come along and see the friendly free-flying birds that can be photographed and fed. Walk amongst over 500 birds from 50 species from Australia and around the world!
disturbingly, showed a dramatic downturn in general eye health, particularly the incidence of myopia (short sightedness).
“In 2012, children in rural areas in Laos had the lowest ever recorded prevalence of myopia,” Tom said.
“That was interesting because there is a current epidemic with myopia that we’re seeing in south-east Asia.”
He said he was vitally interested in finding out why that situation had changed in the past 11 years and, more importantly, what can be done to remedy or at least slow the decline in eye
decline, which was also common in many countries in south-east Asia.
Over the last 70 years the prevalence of myopia had increased from around 20 per cent to more than 80 per cent of young adults aged around 20 years.
Dr Rogerson believed over more recent years, the environment had played a big part in the situation in Laos.
“In 2012 when we were there, we were primarily seeing children who did all their reading from a blackboard and they would engage in lots of outdoor play. They had very high rates of UV light exposure (being)
“Now we have good reason to believe that partly due to the rising prosperity and the increase in national wealth in that country, these children are doing more and more ‘near work’.”
During the month-long visit to Laos, Tom and his team will have their work cut out but he said he was determined to leave with a number of goals ticked off encompassing areas of eye health, with myopia just a part of the equation.
“We don’t just want to count a bunch of kids that need glasses,” he said.
“We want to put in place a structure that will allow these kids to continue to be cared for.
“Also to allow for the Laotian people to carry out these studies themselves.”
From an academic viewpoint, Tom and his colleagues are eager to get a better understanding of the driving causes of short-sightedness on a global scale.
“While there are all sorts of treatments available, the bottom line is prevention. That’s better than anything we have,” he said.
While the Laotian humanitarian project is substantially funded by Lions Clubs International, the Sight for All Foundation appreciates all donations.
Sad childhood memories have led Canberra Hospital ophthalmologist Dr Thomas Rogerson to an important humanitarian effort in Laos, reports ROD HENSHAW
THE most fundamental challenge in public life is maintaining trust. This challenge is not limited to our political leaders and local members but applies across all leaders who have a public profile.
Journalists, industry leaders, the heads of non-government organisa tions and other professionals have the responsibility to both build and maintain trust.
Our public service leaders have a responsibility to maintain the integrity of the public service while “implementing government policies in a way that is free from bias, and in accordance with the law” is fundamental to retaining trust. Thanks to the recent revelations involving Home Affairs secretary Mike Pezzullo it should now be a time of reflection for these leaders.
Sports rorts along with multiple ministries held by the former prime minister indicate recent multiple failures of the public service. When such failures occur, the integrity of the public service, the integrity of political processes and the integrity of our democratic system come into question.
As Andrew Podger, a former Australian Public Service Commissioner, pointed out in “The Conversation”, the Public Service Act provides clear
guidance. Senior public servants, in particular, must uphold and promote the APS values and employment principles.
He draws attention to one of those values – impartiality. “The APS is apolitical and provides the government with advice that is frank, honest, timely and based on the best available evidence”. In my view, the establishment of short-term contracts for the most senior of public servants was a key element in politicising the public service and undermining integrity and trust.
Investigations into misconduct of any senior public servant is a serious matter and requires great care in following proper processes. Integrity
commissioners do exist in both federal and ACT systems, and it may be that these are the organisations most suitable to carry out investigations into alleged failures in integrity.
However, in the Pezzullo case, it is appropriate that the former Public Service Commissioner, Lynelle Briggs, investigates the allegations that have been raised in the media.
Ms Briggs understands the import and detail of the Public Service Act and is well placed to take an overview, to examine the issues in detail and ensure that proper process is followed.
On face value, it is hard to believe that Mike Pezzullo will be returned to his position as secretary of such a large and powerful department. And certainly not to the one that he played such a key role in amassing over quite a number of years during the term of the conservative governments.
The question of integrity applies not just to the Commonwealth Public Service, but also to the ACT public service. In some ways, the structure of the ACT with its directorates instead of ministries exacerbates the problem.
This is especially true for those heads of directorates who are obliged to handle divided loyalties. They are required to work to the head of the Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development Directorate as well as their own minister.
On its own website the Chief Minister’s Directorate claims to “lead the public sector and works collaboratively both within government and with the community to achieve positive outcomes”. Its role is to “provide strategic advice and support to the Chief Minister, the Directorate’s Ministers and the Cabinet on policy, economic and financial matters, and service delivery”.
It seems to me that the divided loyalty embedded in the system of directorates creates far greater challenges to maintain trust, impartiality, and integrity.
In August 2022, the Director-General of the Chief Minister’s Directorate and head of the ACT Public Service,
Kathy Leigh, expressed concern about corruption within the ACT public service when she told an estimates committee of the outcomes of a staff survey that was answered by 5664 public servants.
The survey identified “the fact that 340 public servants said they had witnessed corruption”. She added: “If you extrapolate that representative sample size to the entire ACTPS, that’s 1505 employees who say they have witnessed corruption”.
As Mr Podger warns: “The Pezzullo story points to serious systemic problems in the Australian Public Service”. Let’s hope that all departmental heads across all jurisdictional public services are using this situation as a springboard to consider how such systemic problems can be resolved.
Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health. He has been a political columnist with “CityNews” since 2006.
The question of integrity applies not just to the Commonwealth Public Service, but also to the ACT public service. In some ways, the structure of the ACT with its directorates instead of ministries exacerbates the problem.Mike Pelluzzo… hard to believe he will be returned to his position.
WHEN Shaun Crain signed up for the Shitbox Rally to raise money for the Cancer Council, he didn’t expect to get diagnosed himself.
“Everyone knows someone who has been impacted by cancer, but what I didn’t plan was that I would be diag nosed with prostate cancer while going through this rally process,” he says.
“No cancer is good, but I’ll go through treatment when I get back and, hopefully, that’ll work. Most peo ple die with prostate cancer, not of it, which is promising, too.
“The Shitbox Rally is a good op portunity to go do something fun while raising money for now, a very personal, and important cause.”
Shaun and his co-driver Nick Nell begin the rally from October 13 in Port Douglas and are aiming to reach Adelaide, 3000 kilometres later, by October 21.
“We both worked together in the same IT department for a few years, neither of us work there any more but we’re in the same pub trivia group still,” says Shaun.
Nick explains it’s his second go at driving in the rally. and looks a bit like a turtle,” says Shaun. boxes and loose clothing, kids’ toys, see others reach theirs, too.
“There are other Canberra teams going as well, but when we looked, there were six ACT or Queanbeyan teams out of the 200 cars,” they say.
“Three were not quite at their goal yet, so we want people to make sure the other teams can be there as well.”
Shaun, of Monash, is getting the car transported to Townsville, where he will pick it up to have it at Port Douglas for the starting date.
“The rally organisers recommend not driving the car all the way to the starting location, because they want you to at least start the rally with a working car,” he says.
“There is a charity auction at the end of the rally, where you can buy your car back or sell off the car and the accessories, but at the end I plan to drive it back to Canberra, but it depends on the state of it.
“If we enjoy the rally, we’ll think about doing it again next year, if we haven’t got sick of each other, but it’s a big car. One of us can hop in the turtle on the top; we’ve both got headphones or there is one working speaker.”
When he gets back home, Shaun only has a few days to settle in before heading off to Las Vegas for a few weeks on a work trip.
“And then, finally, I’m back home in Canberra, and the next day I start four weeks of radiation treatment.”
Donate at shitboxrally.com.au
Women who have just had a baby are much more likely than other women to see faces in everyday objects, reports ROBYN WUTH
NEW mothers can do it all –nurture human life, hold down a job, make a house a home, feed a family, run a country and negotiate world peace – all before dinner.
Now scientists have found that women who have just had a baby are much more likely to spot faces in everyday objects.
It could be a smiling face on the top of a beer can, an animal in a cloud or a wizened old man in a tree trunk – new mums can spot a human face just about everywhere they look, according to a University of Queensland study.
It’s not baby brain, it’s called face pareidolia and Dr Jessica Taubert from UQ’s school of psychology has found the art of perceiving a facial structure on an otherwise lifeless object is more common in new mothers compared to other women.
“We found postpartum women rated objects with illusory faces as more ‘face-like’ than expectant women and those not pregnant,” Dr Taubert said.
The research team set out to find out why and discovered it could be
because new mums have elevated levels of oxytocin in the body after giving birth.
“Oxytocin is known for reduc ing stress, enhancing mood and promoting maternal behaviours like lactation, so it could contribute to a heightened sensitivity in perceiving faces in objects,” Dr Taubert said.
“Our team found illusory faces in everyday objects were more likely to be perceived as male than female,” she said.
“We were subsequently contacted by women who reported that they saw faces in objects more often after giving birth, so we conducted an experiment to examine this theory.”
The study involved 379 women – 79 who had given birth within the past 12 months, 84 expectant mothers and 216 women who were not pregnant.
Participants were asked to find the hidden faces in a diverse set of images, including images of real faces, images of illusory faces in everyday objects and objects without facial features.
“We found postpartum women were more susceptible to face pareidolia,” Dr Taubert said.
“We know our brains have heightened sensitivity to anything
New mothers are more likely to see faces in everyday objects, a study has revealed.
resembling a face-like structure, and this plays a crucial role in detecting the presence of human faces in our surroundings.
“Until now we weren’t aware that our sensitivity to face pareidolia fluctuated throughout different stages of life.”
Dr Taubert says the findings indicate for the first time that hormone
levels may have an impact on the basic visual processes responsible for our ability to detect and prioritise faces.
“This opens new lines of investigation because we know very little about how the brain adapts to the unique challenges associated with caring for a newborn.”
–AAP
THE mighty St John’s Community Fair 2023 is to be held at 45 Constitution Avenue, Reid, 9am-2pm on Saturday, October 14. There will be classic cars, medieval tournaments and village, fire trucks, a military precision drill team, Army display, heritage tours and that’s before you get to the Kids’ Zone with its jumping castle, reptiles, pony rides and face painting. And on sale, there will be books, plants, clothes, craft, trinkets and all sorts of second-hand treasures.
ROGER Quarterman will give an illustrated talk about the Battle of Britain and the Spitfire aeroplane at the next meeting of the Narrabundah Probus Club at the Harmonie German Club, from 11.15am on October 10. Visitors welcome.
President GARY KENT reviews recent Trust activities and previews activities coming up over the next month or so.
WELCOME to our occasional column on National Trust of Australia (ACT) activities.
The Trust is engaging in the consultation process associated with the ACT Heritage Jurisdictional Review, and was pleased to participate in the community workshop on September 19.
We await the findings of the ACT Assembly heritage inquiry, which will also inform the review process.
Don’t forget to register for the ACT Region Heritage Symposium – see details elsewhere on this page.
The Trust’s 2023 AGM is on October 19. Our guest speaker is Canberra-based heritage architect Duncan Marshall AM, the newly appointed chair of the Interim ACT Heritage Council.
The new council will be in place for a minimum of one year while a comprehensive and independent review of heritage arrangements in the ACT is conducted.
On his appointment, Mr Marshall said the new council had a great deal of expertise and strong connections to the community, and was determined to deliver an effective heritage system for the ACT.
Visitors are welcome to the meeting. If you care about ACT’s heritage, you might like to consider nominating to join the Trust’s Council.
Our program of heritage activities is continuing apace, with visits to Mugga Mugga Grasslands (October 22), Kingston parks and gardens (November 4) and Tharwa Bridge and de Salis Cemetery (November 26).
THIS year’s ACT Region Heritage Symposium will be held on Saturday, October 14 at Cultural Centre Kambri at the Australian National University.
The theme is “Planning for Heritage”, which will discuss the following issues: What role does planning have in managing and preserving our cultural heritage?
• In what ways can heritage facilitate positive planning outcomes?
• How can development and conservation partner to enhance our communities?
• How can we facilitate involvement of residents/local communities in planning for heritage?
• How can we ensure that First People’s history and culture are adequately respected and protected in future planning?
The popular Reid Open Houses and Gardens afternoon will be held on October 29.
To book this and other Trust events visit our website: nationaltrust.org.au/act
The Trust welcomes your views on current issues that you suggest we could take up. Please write to me: president@nationaltrustact.org.au
• Heritage and planning legislation.
• Protecting Heritage during the construction of infrastructure in the ACT.
• Embedding the wider social, environmental and economic benefits of heritage in land-use planning.
• Our disappearing heritage trades. The redevelopment of historic areas in urban China.
• Missing in Acton: lessons from the lime kiln.
The keynote speaker is Dr James Lesh, who has published widely on heritage conservation and urban history. He is the author of a new book, “Values in Cities: Urban Heritage in Twentieth-Century Australia” (2023).
Other topics to be covered at the symposium include:
• The role of the National Capital Authority in retaining and enhancing Canberra’s character. Heritage and heuristics.
• Riverside Park, Ginninderry. Ainslie’s Wakefield Gardens heritage precinct.
• Hackett cemetery.
• Lessons from the history of the Reid housing precinct.
Our disappearing grassy landscapes.
• Heritage and the East Lake Place Plan.
Full details about the symposium, including a full program, abstracts and speaker biographies, and to book, follow this link: nationaltrust.org.au/act/
Meet Ivy Weber, born in Captains Flat and, among other things, the inaugural president of the Women for Canberra movement, who proved to be a “remarkably effective force for genuine Australian unity”. NICHOLE OVERALL shares a little history of this largely forgotten activist.
THE tall, striking woman stood in the 80-year-old, chandelier-adorned chamber, every eye – 65 pairs of them and all male – upon her.
“Very good-looking, with a pleasing voice and poise”, Ivy Lavinia Weber was the embodiment of her expressed view that “through voters of Australia, women can take their rightful and valuable place in our country’s future.”
On October 2, 1937, Mrs Weber had become the second woman elected to the Victorian Legislative Assembly, the first nationally as an independent and one of only three female parliamentarians around the country (the other two in WA).
As the new member for Nunawading, three years earlier held by the man destined to become Australia’s longest-serving prime minister, Robert Menzies, Ivy was considered “a woman of immense vitality”.
Twice-widowed – one husband lost to the Great War – a qualified “physical culturist” and determined champion of “women’s causes”, at 45 Ivy was also mother to 11.
Reluctant to describe herself as a feminist – even in the House referred to by the “courtesy title of gentleman” – she was both a product of her time, a period that encompassed two wars, the Depression and significant social upheaval, and a visionary for transformation.
Informed and articulate, during her campaign, Ivy’s critics referred to her as “the little ferret who was always nosing around doing everything”.
And 2023 marks 80 years since Ivy put herself forward as one of the first women to run for a seat in federal parliament – 1943, the first time this was possible.
While Ivy had won a hard-fought spot in the country’s second oldest state parliament (late 1856), her story began close to the place that upstaged Melbourne to become the permanent heart of the Commonwealth: Canberra.
Fifty kilometres south-east of the national capital, Captains Flat today is a tiny town of 600 or so souls. At the turn of the 20th century it was a booming mining metropolis – “one of the largest base metal mining fields in NSW, if not Australia”.
It was here, in its heyday, that Ivy was born in 1892 to school master John Filshie and his wife Elizabeth, one of five kids and the only girl.
From the Flat to Dungog in the Hunter, Ivy eventually made for Sydney where she’d meet and marry the square-jawed, handsome Lt Thomas Mitchell in 1915.
After Tom’s death on the Western Front in 1917, Ivy, living in Melbourne with their baby son, married Australian heavyweight champion wrestler and founder of a health and strength college, Clarence Weber.
He was the widowed father of seven and the couple would have three more children.
Ivy helped run the college up until Clarence’s untimely death in 1930.
Taking on a role with Berlei, the
“undergarment” company, lecturing and giving “radio talks on physical culture”, Ivy’s increasingly diverse commitments ranged from organiser for the Country Party to the Queen Victoria Hospital and the National Council of Women.
As founding president of the Victorian League of Women Electors, at Box Hill Town Hall on September 14, 1937, sporting a stylish hat and white gloves, Ivy launched her “Mother, Child, Family, Home and Health” campaign: “Support and vote for your woman candidate”.
Revealing her progressivism, Ivy called for national health and insurance schemes, free education and government-funded housing. She also “lobbied for female representation on government boards, local councils and juries, and advocated a homemaker’s allowance for women with families”.
Come 1943, women finally had the chance to run federally. As the inaugural president of the Women for Canberra movement, Ivy resigned her state seat to campaign for Henty.
Although unsuccessful, Dames Enid Lyons and Dorothy Tangney made history as the first female
federal parliamentarians.
Making a pitch to return to state politics in 1945, Ivy was unable to repeat her previous success.
Undeterred, this “remarkably effective force for genuine Australian unity” continued to provide her “vision and zeal” to organisations including the Country Party, the anti-socialism movement and the Red Cross.
This incredibly full life came to a close in 1976 when Ivy was 84. In 2001, Ivy Lavinia Weber, of Captains Flat, was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll of Women.
Today a graceful portrait of the only female member for Nunawading (Box Hill from 1945) hangs within the grand Victorian parliament in which she served the people – and the sisterhood – so well.
There are lots more of social historian and journalist Nichole Overall’s “Yester days” columns at citynews.com.au
“It was not expected at all, I was up against so many incredible women,” she says.
“But it’s nice to know my efforts through work are reflecting well on what I want to achieve.”
The Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards support and recognise small businesses owned by women across Australia. The awards seek to recognise the hard work that women business owners contribute to the local community in generating employment as well as their commitment to the Australian economy.
Car Mechanical Services was established 15 years ago in Fisher, but Raffy’s husband Charlie has been working in the industry for more than 42 years.
“We started Car Mechanical Services for ourselves, to give us a bit more control and freedom,” says Raffy.
“Our goal was to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
“I’ve had to push through challenges to set an example, and this award shows I’ve done it, and we are doing the right thing.
“What has been the most encouraging for me, in my success, is knowing that Charlie has given me his trust and support.”
She says Charlie has always been passionate about working on cars, and he’s really good at what he does.
“Charlie has worked in mechanics for more than 42 years, with three or four
years’ experience beforehand in helping his dad repair their tractor, and that is where his passion began,” she says.
“Charlie has trusted all my new ideas, and without his knowledge and guidance behind me I wouldn’t be where I am today, and Car Mechanical Services wouldn’t have the praise and reputation it currently holds.
“I am proud of Car Mechanical Services, proud of Charlie and proud of myself, for putting all this work into actioning change within the industry.”
Raffy says now they have a few young girls doing work experience with them.
“They are very driven girls, and have only been further motivated by seeing me in the workshop every day,” she says.
“Mechanics has often previously been known as a male-dominated industry, but
anything men can.”
Next on her list of goals for the company, while continuing the path she’s begun, Raffy says she’s hoping to grow their work-experience opportunities to people who are neurodiverse.
“It’s part of growing our inclusive workplace,” she says.
“There is always someone telling you that you’re not capable of doing a job, trying to bring you down, but you just need to give it a go.
“If it turns out that you don’t like it, or you’re not good at it, that’s okay, at least you tried and you made the decision for
making improvements for sustainability, and she is doing just that through Car Mechanical Services.
“The world is obviously moving towards electric vehicles pretty quickly, and we want to set a benchmark for the automotive industry,” she says.
“We have invested in electric vehicle repairs and servicing, and we have significantly reduced our single-use plastic consumption.”
Instead of the five-litre plastic tub generally used for engine oil, Raffy has introduced Car Mechanical Services to bulk buying their engine oil.
our business.
“I’m passionate about it because I know we can do so much more than just catering to electric vehicles to make a difference, and I think it’s our responsibility, for each and every one of us, to do our bit for the planet.
“If you tell someone to think of a car workshop, they will think black and dirty. I want to see, and I want other people to see more green, and even more pink would be welcome.”
Car Mechanical Services, call 6162 4111 or visit carmechanicalservices.com.au
‘There’s always someone saying you’re not capable of doing a job, trying to bring you down, but you just need to give it a go’The Car Mechanical Services team, from left, Francesco Sgori, Angus Gray, Raffy Sgori, David Beatty and Charlie Sgori… “I am proud of Car Mechanical Services, proud of Charlie and proud of myself,” says Raffy. Winner… Raffy Sgori with her Trade Services Champion trophy.
A KEY component of Canberra’s compact city policies is for 70 per cent of new housing demand to be accommodated in existing and 30 per cent in greenfield areas.
This share (coincidentally?) is the same as that advocated in Plan Melbourne 2017-2050. While the challenges of Canberra, a city of under 500,000, are of a different magnitude to those of Melbourne, a city of over five million, they both have the growth management objectives of producing enough housing in the right places and improving the functioning of the city.
Economists, planners and spatial analysts, SGS Economics and Planning, in its “Melbourne’s Growth Management Opportunity” report last month argues the successful delivery of Melbourne’s 70 per cent share aspiration requires a change from reactive planning, where the private sector is responsible for implementing policies and strategies, to a system where governments becomes involved in site amalgamation, undertakes master-planning, fills infrastructure gaps in order to
create a sizeable and reliable pipeline of opportunities in established areas for the development sector.
SGS also highlights the lack of density and housing diversity in new Melbourne suburbs, the inefficient delivery of infrastructure from the poor sequencing of development and their poor accessibility, especially to employment.
Whereas historically new suburban areas were affordable and had good access to jobs, this is increasingly no longer the case. Using the Effective Job Density (EJD) index, which measures economic connectivity (the number of jobs in the area plus the number of jobs that can be reached from the area divided by the travel time in getting to them), SGS found Melbourne’s growth area residents had only a fraction of the economic connectivity of the average Melburnian.
In contrast, central city suburbs have a relatively high EJD and have better access to higher-paying jobs and have greater availability of education, training, heath, retail, recreational and cultural services.
In response to the pattern of increasing disadvantage, SGS argues for improved transport connections and increased employment dispersal to greenfield areas.
They calculate increased dispersal could deliver a net community benefit
of around $400 million and given the size of the challenge, in terms of housing provision and jobs access, for a whole-of-city Commonwealth/state partnership.
The state and local government would commit to planning and housing delivery reform and infrastructure investment while the Commonwealth would commit to transfer substantial additional untied funding to the state in line with achievement of agreed transformation milestones.
How should the planning of Canberra respond to its growth challenges?
The ACT government, despite the poor outcomes of current infill policies including the failure to provide the ”missing middle” and the loss of vegetation, overlooking, reduced solar access, inadequate parking and increased congestion associated with many redevelopments, is continuing its reactive approach to private-sector proposals.
It needs to explain why it is not considering government site amalgamation or the introduction of site amalgamation regulations to
better implement its infill policy.
The population size of Canberra means its greenfield residents have a lower level of locational disadvantage than the greenfield residents of larger cities.
Canberra also has the advantage of most greenfield land being in government ownership of which, with good planning, has led to greenfield suburbs with a diversity of housing, services and facilities planned within a hierarchy of centres and the efficient sequencing of development.
This is not to say greenfield planning cannot be improved, it clearly can. The government ownership of land has enabled it to reduce greenfield supply to facilitate the development of a more compact city.
This has resulted in an upward pressure on prices and increased sprawl in the surrounding region. It is important greenfield areas continue to be well-planned with strong transport connections to existing urban areas. Poor management led to delays in the provision of the Molonglo Group Centre reducing access to retailing and services to residents.
Molonglo, Ginninderry and Belconnen CSIRO have been identified as prime areas of greenfield development over the coming decades.
Areas with relatively low EJD include south Tuggeranong, north and western areas of both Belconnen and Gungahlin. As advocated by SGS in relation to Melbourne, such areas need improved access to jobs from increased employment dispersal and improved transport connections.
This suggests the government should reconsider its transport priorities, especially the extension of light rail, and develop a “city deal” with the Commonwealth aimed at increasing housing choice and affordability and employment in the new towns.
What is fundamentally important, and what has been missing, is a planning strategy based on evidence.
There is no question that substantial quality infill is essential. However, this should not be delivered by strangling detached dwelling supply in greenfield areas which denies the housing preferences of many households.
Canberra’s future development should be managed in the context of the parameters facing the city and not solutions derived to manage much larger cities.
There’s no question that substantial quality infill is essential. However, this shouldn’t be by strangling detached housing in greenfield areas, which denies the housing preferences of many households.
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3 2 2As the minister extols the referendum ‘yes’ case, the auditor-general reveals a damning look at how her government is failing the indigenous community. JON STANHOPE & KAHLID AHMED say it amounts to deliberate acts of misrepresentation.
IN August, ACT Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Rachel StephenSmith talked up her working relationship with Australia’s first First Nations advisory Voice, the 15-year-old ACT Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elected Body.
She reported how frustrating it was to hear the “no” campaign promoting ignorance about the Voice rather than encouraging people to seek to understand it.
“So I would say yes, if you don’t know, ask someone, Google it, go to a forum,” she said.
Ironically Ms Stephen-Smith’s comments were made in the same week that the ACT Auditor-General’s “Implementation of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) Agreement”, report was released.
Among a myriad of findings, the report identified risks to the effectiveness of the Elected Body, which elicited the following response from
Stephen-Smith: “Are we there yet? Absolutely not. Do we need a partner to hold us to account? Absolutely, we do need that”.
However, the audit highlighted much more than that and was scathing of the ACT government’s implementation of the ATSI agreement. Criticisms the minister apparently chose not to address.
Audit reports are invariably critical of the area/service the subject of a performance audit. Even with this expectation, this performance audit is extraordinarily critical and, in our opinion, unique in the ACT.
The audit concluded that while performance reporting has been conducted over the life of the 2019 ATSI Agreement, it has not provided a structured and faithful representation of progress (our emphasis) in its implementation.
One of the key findings in relation to the annual report on the ATSI Agreement tabled in April 2020 was:
“There was a lack of structure to the report, and it was not possible to
accurately determine which parts of the 2019 Agreement had (or had not) been progressed.
“The report predominantly consisted of unstructured reporting of highlights, which does not provide a faithful representation of progress that has (or has not) been made.
“Performance measures included in focus area action plans for Phase One of the 2019 Agreement, which were reported in the annual report, lacked specific targets or methods to assess performance.”
The audit made a similar finding in relation to the reporting by directorates: “Directorates’ reporting of their activities to implement the 2019 Agreement, as shown in their 2020-21 annual reports, did not provide a faithful representation of their activities.”
Overall, the audit concluded that performance reporting did not enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to hold the government to account for the implementation of the 2019 ATSI Agreement as it was not materially complete or “faithfully presented”.
Notably, there are 18 references in the auditor-general’s report to the term “faithful reporting”. In Paragraph 4.5, the auditor-general defines faithful reporting as:
• complete – it includes all information required to create an accurate understanding;
• neutral – it is free from bias in the selection and presentation of information; and
• it is free from error.
These are well established and important principles for financial and performance reporting.
Directors-general are also required to affirm that the annual report is “an honest and accurate account, containing all material information for the reporting year”, a requirement equivalent to the description of a faithful representation.
And yet, according to the auditorgeneral, apart from the Education Directorate, no other ACT government directorate has fully met these requirements.
While material errors may be attributable to a lack of rigour and attention, any departure from the other two principles – complete and free from bias – surely must be conscious and deliberate.
As such, it is not unreasonable to interpret “not a faithful representation” as involving a deliberate act of misrepresentation.
The audit found that governance arrangements to oversee the implementation of the ATSI Agreement have not been effective. Of the 99 priority actions in the Phase One focus area action plans, 24 have not been adequately addressed by directorates in their implementation plans.
Two governance committees were established to oversee the implementation of the Agreement; the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs sub-committee of the ACT Public Sector Strategic Board; and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Inter-Directorate Committee.
The auditor-general reported that: “[N]either committee has had sufficiently stable and consistent attendance by members since the commencement of the 2019 Agreement and neither committee has met according to the timeframes set down by their terms of reference.
“Action items have been consistently noted in the meeting minutes of both committees, but the completion of actions has not been consistently reported or tracked to their ultimate completion. The Strategic Board subcommittee has not effectively fulfilled its responsibility under its terms of reference to oversight risk management of the 2019 Agreement.”
This is a damning assessment.
The flawed implementation of the ATSI Agreement, the ineffectiveness of the Elected Body through underfunding and lack of commitment by the government, and Aboriginal people’s inability to hold the ACT government to account, are hardly the examples to follow for a national “Voice”, which we nevertheless hope will be implemented following the referendum.
“Many progressive Canberrans have asked me how they can virtue-signal that they are down with all the black folk they generally have nothing to do with,” writes RACIAL GUBBAGAMMON, ACT Minister for Indigenous Affirmations.
A LOT of people don’t realise that, as well as being queen bitch for ACT Health, I am also boss lady for the blak mob here in Canberra.
Mind you, I tend to steer clear of interacting too much with them. They can be a bit negative. Plus, you know… germs and stuff. I find it much more effective to attend “Yes” rallies with like-minded white people. It just feels that little bit more… cleaner.
But with the upcoming Voice referendum, many progressive Canberrans have asked me how they can virtue-signal that they are down with all the black folk they generally have nothing to do with.
This Voice thing has just brought up all the guilt again. All those terrible atrocities where their white ancestors either turned bad or turned away. I just tell them, hey, I’m responsible for the ACT having the highest incarceration ratio of Aboriginal people anywhere in the country, but you don’t see me being troubled by it.
Nor am I bothered that over 80 per cent of ACT indigenous citizens have long-term health problems, or that
the ACT’s own indigenous Voice to parliament has achieved bugger all. Unless they are bad things done by a Liberal government, all these facts and figures should be tossed out of your head like the thoughts of buying a non-EV car. As progressives, we are on the side of the angels.
Instead, think of all the mighty things you have done to make a difference to the lives of your indigenous brothers and sisters. Like not booing Adam Goodes. Buying that Jimmy Little record he did with Kylie Minogue. Wearing a Midnight Oil T-shirt (they have black friends, Albo tells me). Cheering Cathy Freeman at the Olympics. Watching Rachel thingo in that TV show. I mean, the list goes on. You deserve to be congratulated, not castigated!
That’s because, being a progressive, you have taken on the eternal white man’s burden – selflessly shouldering the weight of indigenous hardship for your poorer racial cousins. And, if you do it right, being a white saviour will make you feel warm inside and maybe even a bit edgy. Like you’re into hiphop or something. Well, up to a point.
It’s still such a shame that they
can’t control all the ugly stuff and be like those slick African-Americans we see on TV. Then they could actually hang out with us and talk about Teslas and amazeballs restaurants, and we could show them off as our black friends. In time, in time.
“Nyunggai Warren Mundine was once the president of the ALP (before the ALP dudded him), how conservative can he be?” You may even be tempted to find Linda Burney boring or want details on how the Voice will work in practice. Stop! That way lies madness. Just stick to the vibe of the thing and put a sticker on your car.
But what’s the explanation for those indigenous people not sticking to the plan? Well, some black folk, like poor little Jacinta and Warren, can get led astray by racists. Their feeble minds become confused, I’m afraid. It’s always the way with some of them. Like here in Canberra, they can’t even decide whether they’re Ngunnawal or Ngambri!
But it’s simple. Come October 14, you all just need to vote “yes” so we can save our embattled Alborigines I mean, Albo is something of a tribal warrior himself – turning the possibility of a workable bipartisan outcome into a nasty political battle in order to wedge Dutton. As he says, he lives to fight Tories. And, after all, that’s what’s important at the end of the day.
Now, in the lead up to the Voice referendum, you are also bound to be confused by the complexity of different indigenous arguments. You’ve probably heard Jacinta Nampijinpa Price and thought, “actually, she makes some good points”. Or thought,
Now, all that awaits is for the black folk to thank us. Preferably not in person, though.
Full Disclosure: The Shush Capital will be voting “Yes” despite how terribly the case has been prosecuted.
“If you do it right, being a white saviour will make you feel warm inside and maybe even a bit edgy.”
LAST week Home Affairs’ secretary Mike Pezzullo was stood down when he should have offered to spend a final hour at the office, packing his bags and keeping his hands off the shredders (“Pezzullo’s end will be predictable”, citynews. com.au September 26).
But when he departs the APS ignominiously, how many think-and-act-alike Pezzullos will he leave in his wake? Who in his team of also very highly paid senior executives had even an inkling of their boss’s frequent and ingratiating wheeling and dealing with a close and cherished political conduit over several years?
How many acquiesced and followed the leader in showing only contempt for the public interest and for public scrutiny, which need to be enabled by APS values, a free press, public inquiries and Senate estimates? The robodebt royal commission clearly showed that another controversial recipient of a publicly funded $900K salary package was not a “lone wolf”.
Sue Dyer, Downer
I WAS watching some of the video of the Legislative Assembly and laughed out loud when Liberal Jeremy Hanson was asked to
withdraw a statement that included the word “porkies”.
The Assembly was adjourned for a few minutes while the assistant speaker conferred and, eventually, it was decided that “porkies” would be withdrawn from Hansard.
Further, Mr Hanson’s argument to have the decriminalisation of drugs legislation deferred until 2025 was also amusing. His argument was based on misconceptions and dramatic antics and just plain nonsense.
While Mr Hanson repeatedly quoted Neil Gaughan, he missed a significant point that the ACT chief police officer had made – that he wasn’t sure what would happen when the law was implemented.
Thankfully, Mr Hanson’s proposal to defer the legislation failed miserably.
Also, I found some of Mr Gaughan’s statements ambiguous; he advised that the commencement of the legislation this month will be around the same time as the Spilt Milk music festival and the annual Rebels ride to Canberra. Mr Gaughan stated there will be a high police presence at the Spilt Milk Festival.
Am I missing something here? The legislation says individuals with a certain amount (extremely regulated) of illicit substances can expect a fine if they are found to have drugs in that measure on them.
This begs the question of whether the high police presence is determined to be a revenueraising event, or perhaps Chief Gaughan is concerned that the Rebels are going to set up an illicit substance stall at the festival?
Come on, Canberra, get with the times; we all know people are going to use illicit substances, decriminalised or not. And, please, let’s not have further deaths at festivals where, previously, a number of revellers, so fearful of the police, have ingested all their substances at once, leading to tragic and completely unnecessary deaths.
Janine Haskins, CookTHE planning vision for the corners of Northbourne and Macarthur-Wakefield Avenues, is for all four to be developed with high rises.
Three are apparently underway, but on the remaining one, Cinderella-like, sits the very low-rise ABC centre.
It needs to remain in its familiar locale, while retaining its visibility and character –and certainly not subsumed into some highrise complex. Nearby, down Northbourne, is the former Churchill House, brilliantly designed by Robin Boyd. With its striking presence, and extensions to the rear, it would be ideal for our national broadcaster.
Jack Kershaw, Kambah
MICHAEL Moore (“Ignore Barr’s spin, things are going to get worse”, CN September 21)
attacks the government for allowing the ACT’s Standard and Poor’s credit rating slip below the ideal AAA level.
He presents a general criticism of Andrew Barr’s performance in fiscal management, but specifically mentions the light rail project: in my opinion a disaster in the making.
As Sue Dyer (Letters, CN September 21) wrote: “There is actually little spare money... for the development of anything other than pre-determined and contentious planning reforms and associated light rail preparations, construction and likely cost blow-outs”.
Given the multitude of problems facing light rail stage 2B, I would say that cost blowouts will be not only very likely, but also breathtakingly huge.
As one consequence, the national capital will become even more untidy and unkempt, as lamented by Phillip and Beth Harris (Letters, CN September 21) who were so disgusted with what the Barr government has done to Canberra that they moved to Goulburn.
Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin
DR Douglas Mackenzie (Letters, CN September 14) commends the wisdom of Senator Pocock over Zed Seselja. I am not so sure.
Senator Pocock has backed the left and
other transient independents in an unwarranted rush into clean energy while the major economies of the world are hardly curbing their emissions.
This is of great cost to the Australian taxpayer while cheaper electricity is a figment of the left’s imagination.
Looking at data largely unnoticed by those in the political scrum, the top 30 countries in the world by GDP have more than 60 per cent of the world’s population and are responsible for 78 per cent of the world’s energy consumption.
Except for India, these nations have been ageing for decades and even including India with its current fertility rate of 2.0, their population weighted fertility rate is 1.6. By 2050, these countries will be about 40 per cent aged 65 and over. More than every third person will be elderly. Just look at Japan and South Korea. Dynamism is fading. Things are slowing down and this will become the case in all the big polluters. It is the countries of Africa and parts of Asia where clean energy investment should be made in preparation for the shift in dynamism by 2050.
Family life will be critical to the wellbeing of our aged society in 2050. I would put my trust in Zed Seselja for his perception of the challenges.
John L Smith, Farrer
THE serial haranguing by the “usual suspects” advocating a “no” vote in “CityNews” has become ever increasingly shrill and unhinged, replete with conspiracies, red herrings and deflections.
In fact, anything to avoid addressing how to improve the lives of indigenous Australians other than by continuing with the manifest failure involved in doing more of what we’ve already been (or not been) doing for decades.
Possibly one of the most risible lately came from Greg Cornwall (Letters CN September 19) who has become weirdly exercised by the dual naming of places. Strangely, he seemed either unbothered by, or oblivious to, the irony of his living in Yarralumla.
So, no, Greg, an enshrined Voice would not be able to demand anything, let alone that “all non-Aboriginal names in Australia”, incredibly down to street names in Greg’s fevered imaginings, be dual named.
The absurdity of that proposition seems not to have registered given the inherent hysteria symptomatic of much of the “no” ravings.
But if indeed some prominent sites are dual-named now or in future, so what?
Why shouldn’t we tap into and recognise the long indigenous history of places, particularly when so many are currently
named after absentee imperial overlords, others with no obvious connection to the places named after them or people of since-revealed culpability, and when there is instead a linguistic poetry to many indigenous names.
As for K’Gari, it is NOT a dual name; it IS K’Gari, its traditional name. It is fitting that that island no longer be named to honour the odiously treacherous Eliza Fraser who repaid the then-inhabitants who had sheltered, fed and protected her with betrayal.
That previous name seems a perfect encapsulation of everything that was
wrong with colonial place naming.
David Jenkins, CaseyI REFER to Greg Cornwall’s letter regarding the Voice and his point about the Voice possibly resulting in demands for all non-Aboriginal names in Australian cities, towns, suburbs, etcetera be dual named (CN September 21.)
What a load of rubbish. Mr Cornwall
It was about using reliable evidence to develop reasoned and logical conclusions and possible solutions that, following implementation, can be accurately evaluated.
I wonder how many No-sayers apply clear thinking or anything like it? They accept misinformation from any source they think bolsters their pre-determined, often contradictory and increasingly bizarre opinions. For instance, Senator Price’s assertion that there are no ongoing negative effects of colonisation, or Dutton suggesting the highly reputable Electoral Commission risks a “dodgy” referendum result by sometimes allowing a tick instead of a written “Yes”.
What’s really bemusing is that all sorts of misinterpretations are being placed on our “Westminster system’’ by the same people who, I imagine, are usually its most vocal supporters.
No-sayers seemed to have forgotten that the parliament comprises a government, an opposition and usually some minor parties and independents. All have opportunities to scrutinise draft bills, debate their viewpoints and suggest amendments before voting on the final version. There can’t be any hidden “demands” nor will it open the “floodgates of litigation”.
No-sayers have already decided (again evidence free) the Voice will make no difference to existing problems. Yet, none of the leading dissenters have yet articulated a clear picture of what they would do, or have done, to reduce continuing indigenous disadvantage.
What did Senator Price actually achieve during her five years as an Alice Springs councillor or since as a senator? How have Warren Mundine or Lidia Thorpe significantly improved indigenous wellbeing? All Mr Mundine seems to have done is swiftly change his political allegiances when he thought it would advance his self-interest. And, I wonder, if “Yes” prevails, will any of them jump in to help make the Voice work?
Eric Hunter, Cook
KEL Watt (Letters, CN September 21) is correct in respect of valid ticks but invalid crosses on the Voice ballot paper, now upheld by the High Court. Past practice, 20 plus years ago, is no excuse to continue an unfair practice.
However, valid ticks but invalid crosses are just the last of several unethical measures by the prime minister to stack the case against the “No” campaign – initially, tax deductions only for “Yes” camp; initially, no “Yes” and “No” pamphlets: initially, no solicitor-general’s advice to be published and no equal government funding of both cases, as in past referenda.
But worst of all, a single question on the ballot paper that addresses only the first of three parts to be written into the Constitution, ie, “A proposed law to alter the Constitution to recognise… the Voice. Do you approve of this proposed alteration?”
Unfortunately, a great many voters will simply read this as “Do you agree with recognition of Aborigines in the Constitution?”, in complete ignorance of the ramifications of implementation. No other information will be provided on the ballot paper and the question is therefore misleading by deliberate omission.
As has been said, the standard you walk past is the standard you accept.
Max Flint, Erindaleshould know better in regards to the processes of re-naming such places – usually not the national parliament.
And he needs to reflect on the fact that places, geographical sites etcetera were named by the indigenous peoples of this land thousands of years before settlement by Europeans and were renamed by colonists without any reference or permission from the original inhabitants. Trish O’Connor, via email
IT amazes me that the prime minister and many politicians, especially of the left, have pushed so hard on the referendum issue.
It makes me suspicious of their motives as they seize a chance for a major change to Australia’s governance.
The heat and emotion of the current debate convinces me that, in the case of a “Yes” vote, there will be demand for the Voice to effectively become the equivalent of a “third chamber” of Parliament.
The Voice supposedly will be small (perhaps 24 places), spread across the states, and likely to be “hand-picked”. Any election would require an electoral roll, raising the challenge of criteria for “Aboriginality”.
I have specific concerns about the Voice. In the NT, Aboriginal domestic violence is appalling. I’m also aware of the deep
divisions in Tasmania, where one family dominates its Aboriginal groups, refusing to recognise the Aboriginality of a majority of Tasmanians of Aboriginal descent. Until things change in the NT and in Tasmania, I’m unable to support the Voice.
John L Worcester, Narrabundah
I ADMIT to being ignorant about a lot of things. I also feel stupid when I really should know the facts about a topical issue, especially one that is important to me – like a referendum to change the constitution.
To remain wilfully ignorant is “just sheer stupidity” as Prof Marcia Langton puts it. Thankfully, not all stupid people are racist, but surely all racists are inherently stupid. Being so doggedly determined to remain wilfully ignorant of any facts that may risk changing their racist world-view.
Now can someone explain how the “No” case in the referendum booklet was put together? It reads like something out of Utopia where there’s a mad panic to make the deadline while struggling with the 2000-word limit.
Then the work experience kid suggests using an AI engine (like ChatGPT). The first draft looks too perfect so someone decides it needs “fixing” to appear like it was actually written by just stupid humans.
Michael A Crowe, HawkerThis brings the ‘CityNews’ coverage of the Voice to an end. Thank you to all the readers and writers who contributed to this important debate through our pages.
HISTORY teaches us heaps – we don’t need to relearn physics or molecular biology, on account of boffins having laid the groundwork already, what with the accelerators getting linear and the apples falling on your Newtons.
All we have to do is sit on the shoulders of giants and learn and develop.
Every now and again some newbie will come along and disrupt the linear progress and off we go, new technology and everybody gets a Tesla.
Except everybody doesn’t get a Tesla. Because, as everyone in STEM spends the requisite years learning, what we already know in order to either build on it, commercialise it or teach it to others, in the social sciences, we don’t accept the universal truths of earlier generations.
Which is quite good if those universalities include teeny little problems such as slavery, colonialism, entrenched misogyny and a couple of other shockers. Not sure I’d like to have been a woman in any one of the ten thousand or so generations before this one.
So, the social types make changes. New perspectives, new thinking. I love it, but I’d love to hang on to the good parts we learned. The bits about
sharing life’s bounty with everyone sounds cool. Whereas anybody who needs to learn twice the immutable fact that a possum goes the full Schwarzenegger on your melon if you muscle in on its roof space is dumber than a possum. We must learn from the past, not ignore it or pretend it never happened.
In years past, some poor woman with a wart or whose pumpkins grew better than Raelene’s next door, may have been accused of witchcraft by Raelene’s husband Wayne, whose pumpkins were lousy, and who was the village mayor.
The poor gardener was accused
the most visually impaired of golfers, that there is no place in a decent society for argyle pants.
by an unruly mob, and if she didn’t drown she’d be burnt at a stake. Monty Python, but real. A greedy mob, disrespect for logic or reason, cruelty in the name of some deity or philosophy, no intelligent debate or defence. An unfair society. I hate it more than Kafka.
So here we are in the enlightened 2020s, free from mob mentality preying on those who are just trying to grow their pumpkins in peace, free to voice our views without being shamed, free to articulate an opinion and know that the prevailing opinion makers will debate with us thoughtfully, and respect what we have learned just as we respect them, and come away from meaningful discourse with a deepened admiration for each other as well as the underpinning of the other person’s views. Hmmm.
One summer morning in the late
Cretaceous era, I was sitting in the milk bar when Mrs B, proud and gentle woman of the Gumbaynggirr nation (in those days referred to as something considerably less accurate or respectful – things do get better) at the next table addressed her nephew: ”Larry, those argyle pants look pretty sharp on you, boy. But there’s some that would look even better again!”
Larry, an awesome kid whose smile could repower a dead power station, grinned and replied: “Thanks, aunty. Which ones would look better?”
“Pretty much all of them, love” she said, and shortly after they trotted off to Vinnies and I never saw Larry in those appalling pants again. Mind you, he looked cool in anything, so possibly not the finest example.
It is, however, a great exemplar into how we have learned intergenerationally and without dispute from any but
Similarly, Mrs B had learned over 60,000 years that the best way to deliver important feedback was kindly, inclusively, without insult, and (literally, in her case) holding someone’s hand and taking them closer to the solution.
We don’t all need a Tesla. But I hope that as we continue to build on the learnings of scientists past, we find new and exciting tools to improve our lives and are granted the leisure time to love each other better.
And I hope the social scientists discover ways to influence each other like Mrs B did – with love. I don’t want an angry mob to stone me for wearing argyle pants or growing good pumpkins. If you care about someone, and I argue that should be everyone – care enough to argue with them respectfully.
Antonio Di Dio is a local GP, medical leader, and nerd. There is more of his “Kindness” on citynews.com.au
I don’t want an angry mob to stone me for wearing argyle pants or growing good pumpkins. If you care about someone, and I argue that should be everyone – care enough to argue with them respectfully.
“If she didn’t drown she’d be burnt at a stake. Monty Python, but real.”
MAINTAINING health or going on a journey towards good health means different things to different people.
Whether it’s quality physiotherapy, rewarding exercise or effective treatment of conditions such as arthritis and chronic pain, Canberra is home to many experts passionate about improving health in all sorts of ways.
This week “CityNews” speaks with local allied health experts, surgeons and medicinal practitioners who specialise in maintaining their patients’ wellbeing.
GETTING help with hearing loss is all about improving communication and gaining clarity, says Dr Vass Hearing Clinic principal Dr William Vass.
Offering professional, independent advice and treatment, Dr Vass says taking the first step with a hearing test can be life-changing.
“We know hearing loss can be linked to anxiety, isolation, anger, relationship issues, work issues and miscommunica tion in general,” he says.
“After treatment or rehabilitation patients can find it a lot easier to get along with people, don’t have to guess so much and are much more confident in their communication skills, especially with their partner.”
While hearing loss can come with ageing, Dr Vass says it can also often affect young people too.
“Those exposed to loud noises in military and construction fields can experience hearing loss. Some people might be genetically exposed to hearing loss or there could be viral infections,” he says.
“It’s very important to act early. Waiting too long can start to see a disconnect between the brain and the ear.
“We find that those people who put off getting help with their hearing loss for long periods don’t have as successful outcomes as those who seek
DIABETES Australia operations manager NSW ACT Natalie Smith says that as people get older their risks of
“Unfortunately, as we get older the pancreas produces less insulin mean ing there’s a higher risk, especially for type 2 diabetes,” she says.
“It’s so important for us to continue raising awareness, for people to have a conversation with their GP and get
Natalie says the earlier diabetes is detected, the faster treatment and lifestyle changes can begin to stop or delay complications such as heart disease and amputations.
help earlier.”
Dr Vass says patients have the certainty that they’ll be seeing him when they visit the clinic and that he will provide one-on-one, tailored care and advice. “It’s rewarding to help people not be so isolated, and help improve their communication with others, especially their loved ones,” he says.
Dr Vass Hearing Clinic, suite 14, John James Medical Centre, 175 Strickland Crescent, Deakin. Visit drvasshearing.com.au or call 6282 2717.
“There is support out there, and I am seeing more and more stories of people who are diagnosed early that are going into remission,” she says.
“Nationally, 5.6 per cent of people have diabetes. In the ACT there are more than 20,000 living with it.
“Unfortunately we know there are more people living with undiagnosed diabetes.
“Type 1 has four ‘T’ symptoms, thirst, toilet (increased urination), thinner and tired. Type 2 is thirst,
She says Diabetes Australia has an online risk calculator where people can measure how much risk they’re at of the chronic illness.
“It calculates cultural, genetic and lifestyle factors that contribute, and we encourage everyone to do it,” says Natalie.
“If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, don’t panic, talk with us, we’re here to help.”
Diabetes Australia. Call 1800 177055, or visit www.diabetesaustralia.com.au
ARTHRITIS ACT can support people no matter what type of chronic pain condition they have, says CEO, Rebecca Davey.
“It’s important to remain active at all ages, to condition muscles that protect against injury”, and Arthritis ACT has solutions for people of varying abilities.
Rebecca says Arthritis, Pain Support & ME/ CFS have staff who are not only experts in their fields, but many are peers in that they also live with the conditions that bring our clients to us.
“This means we really understand where you are coming from, your fears, your hopes, and what you can do,” she says.
“We are hosting a mindfulness for chronic pain workshop beginning with a physiothera pist who has 30 years of experience, so she really knows her stuff.
“Mindfulness is a critical part of managing chronic pain, so the workshop is beginning mid-October and will be delivered over eight weeks.
“It is a one hour session once a week over Zoom at lunch time, but in future we will have other options and other times available.”
And that’s only the start, Rebecca says, with Arthritis ACT also offering services such as exercise physiology, disability support and meal planning to help people in managing their pain.
“No task or question is too big or small for us.”
Arthritis ACT, Pain Support & ME/CFS ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au
DIRECTOR of the Tuggeranong branch of Performance Edge Physiotherapy, Dave Wellington says as we age our bodies undergo changes that can impact our physical well-being.
“Physiotherapy is an effective way to counteract these changes allowing a good quality of life to be maintained,” he says.
“Physiotherapy is not only beneficial for the rehabilitation of injuries, it offers a multitude of health benefits for our seniors.
“Firstly, physiotherapy helps seniors maintain their strength and mobility. Through targeted exercises and techniques, physiotherapists work to enhance muscle strength, improve balance and increase flexibility, this is crucial in the prevention of falls which can have devastating conse quences for older adults.”
Dave says by improving mobility, physi otherapy enables seniors to continue living independently, improving their overall quality of life.
“Physiotherapy also plays a vital role in managing chronic pain, a common issue among seniors,” he says.
“Whether it’s arthritis, osteoporosis, or joint problems we use a variety of techniques including manual therapy and therapeutic exercises to reduce pain and increase mobility.
“This can reduce the need for pain medication and improve an individual’s ability to engage in daily activities, this contributes greatly to their mental well-being.
At Performance Edge Physiotherapy, our focus is YOU. Our team of dedicated professionals will provide unparalleled assessment, diagnosis & treatment, tailored to your individual requirements.
We will perform a comprehensive assessment to effectively diagnose and treat your condition.
Our therapists cater for many conditions including:
• Post-operative recovery • Sporting injuries
• Motor vehicle accident or workplace injury
• Muscle and joint pain
• Degenerative or neurological conditions
• Arthritis
“At Performance Edge Physiotherapy we help our older adults maintain their independence so they can enjoy an active and fulfilling life as they age.”
Performance Edge Physiotherapy. Call 6293 4355 (Tuggeranong), 6162 0252 (Belconnen) and 6162 0252 (Brindabella Park), or visit pephysio.com.au
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 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.
Physiotherapist Emil comes to us with a wealth of physiotherapy experience and knowledge from the public hospital system and also private practice. Emil works closely with our team of Exercise Physiologists on a coordinated approach to improving your pain and overall wellbeing. Emil has a special interest in neurology and improving the lives of people living with neurological conditions. He’s also mad keen on soccer and will support you with all sports related injuries and injury prevention.
Dorothy is a dynamic Exercise Physiologist with specialist training in pilates and tai chi. She has experience is working with young people with disability, with sporting teams (her passion being AFL) and with the elderly. Dorothy has an indepth understanding of chronic pain and disability and will work with you to find those daily wins that make your life easier.
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 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 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.
An 8 week course via zoom designed to help you mangage your chronic pain hosted by Linda Clee – Physiotherapist. Linda has helped people with chronic pain for 25 years. Enquire today 1800 011 041 Email info@arthritisact.org.au
• 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.’
CANBERRA Detox and Rehab Services opened in 2022 to help people recover from drug and alcohol problems and addiction issues.
“There is strong demand for a service like ours, we also pick up from Sydney and the airport for our interstate guests,” a spokesman for the business said.
“Unfortunately, there are many youthful and otherwise successful people with cocaine, marijuana, prescription or other drug misuse and alcohol problems.
“Sometimes it starts as a binge issue, is seen as a reward for hard work, or is due to a deep physical or mental pain.
“It gets out of control and starts having a nega tive impact on health, relationships and career.”
Canberra Detox and Rehab offered detox services in a relaxed, modern retreat environment.
“Some people only stay a week to physically detox, reset and get back on track,” the spokesman said.
“Others stay 28 days plus, to focus on rehabilita tion and deal more deeply with the causes of their problems.
“We offer a personalised service, guests have their own rooms with ensuites, our chef prepares nutritious meals and you can stay in touch with business and family.”
He said Canberra Detox and Rehab took great satisfaction from its guest’s success: “We look after everything so a person can focus on themselves and their recovery.”
Canberra Detox and Rehab Services. Call 0477 827744, or visit canberradetoxandrehab.com
CURTIN Optical stocks a wide range of eyewear and accessories, says owner Corey Nicholls.
Having been a part of the Curtin community for 23 years, he says Curtin Optical has three experienced optometrists available for appointments from Mondays to Fridays.
“We cater to all tastes – from budget to well-known brands,” says Corey.
Curtin Optical also offers mobile optical dispensing services –spectacle selections and deliveries to the elderly or people unable to come into the store due to disability, he says.
“This includes spectacle repairs and adjustments, and an afterhours service,” says Corey.
“In addition, Curtin Optical offers an express service for those who have lost or broken their spectacles (Rx dependent).
“Curtin Optical’s in-store services can offer a same-day turnaround and its mobile jobs have a 24-hour turnaround.”
Corey says its independence from large chains gives customers a more personalised service.
He says they are also providers to the ACT pension scheme and DVA, with Curtin Optical offering a 10 per cent discount to ACT Seniors Card holders on
complete spectacles, when their Seniors Card is presented at ordering.
Curtin Optical. Shop 1B, Curtin Place, Curtin. Call 6281 1220 or visit curtinoptical.com.au
januaryhealthfoods.com.au
January Health Foods is a boutique store specialising in gluten free, dairy free and vegan products. We pride ourselves on stocking all your favourite health foods. We’ve road-tested all our products and are happy to give you tips and suggestions if you’re just starting out. If there’s something that you’re looking for – let us know – we’ll do our best to track it down and get it in for you.
Monday to Friday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm
Saturday 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
Sunday Closed
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Shop 2a, 1 Chandler Street, Belconnen (opposite Westfield) For more about us head to januaryhealthfoods.com.au
BEAUTY isn’t only about looking good, it’s also about feeling good. There’s nothing quite like some self-care to get you feeling beautiful, inside and out.
This week “CityNews” speaks with a couple of Canberra specialists who help to make clients look and feel amazing.
TOTAL Body Contouring has been established in Canberra for a few years now, but new-owner Christy Christensen only recently took over.
“The community and customer base around the brand appealed to me, as we have so much to offer for the next phase of growth and service offerings,” she says, with 16 years of experience backing her up.
“Total Body Contouring is a place to redefine your silhouette. We help people achieve their goals from reducing cellulite and fatty tissue, assisting with muscle growth, through to facials that reduce acne scars.”
Christy says Total Body Contouring is about building body confidence without surgery.
“We give a personalised experience and journey, everyone is different,” she says.
“First we set up a consultation to make sure you get the right specialisation for your needs and wants.
“With industry certification for all our services, your safety comes first.
“We give full transparency to everyone so there are no hidden extras or inflated prices.”
Christy says as a team, satisfaction comes from the amazing results achieved through the Total Body Contouring services.
Luke Clewsfaces when they see the results for themselves,” she says.
“We have a welcome promotion, where people can save $100 with a minimum purchase of $500, and a free Body Glove for a limited time only.”
Total Body Contouring, Shop 3/22 Franklin Street, Griffith. Call 6239 7347, or visit totalbodycontouring.com.au
LUKE Clews says Kingston Natural Therapies has a long-standing reputation spanning almost 40 years, with Luke’s father, Guy, starting the practice in 1984. Luke says a lot of their clients come to them when they feel traditional medicine hasn’t worked for them and they’re looking for a different approach.
“The advantage that complementary medicine offers is the holistic health approach,” he says.
“Our appointments are up to one hour in length. We take the time to learn about our patient’s entire health and background.
“Our first question is – how can we help? We sit down and assess diet, lifestyle, digestion, immunity, hormones, nervous system and the overall state of someone’s health. We need to ask why are the symptoms ongoing? Then we can approach it with confidence.
“We identify the roadblocks – what is impacting us? We can provide herbal medicine, vitamins, amino acid therapy, diet and lifestyle and allergy testing.”
Luke says it is crucial for nutrient levels to be addressed, as a very small
percentage of people actually eat the recommended five servings of vegetables each day. Many people are also deficient in zinc and magnesium, the two most widely used minerals in the human body. “Everybody is unique and every treatment we provide is unique to the individual,” he says.
Kingston Natural Therapies, 49 Jardine Street, Kingston. Call 6295 6660, or visit kingstonnaturaltherapies.com.au
Cooltech, also known as fat freezing, is a popular, non-surgical treatment that makes it possible to reduce fat deposits by up to 25%.
The advantages of Cooltech are, among other things, that the treatment is very effective, almost painless and far more gentle on the body than, for example, surgery.
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Many people find that despite a healthy lifestyle, they can have a hard time getting rid of fat in certain areas of the body. This can be extremely frustrating for the individual and lead to not feeling comfortable in their body. Stubborn fat deposits can be genetically determined and therefore be extremely difficult to get rid of.
TESLAFormer Treatment builds bobt muscle in the areas you want and leads to burning fat as muscle forms.
The TESLAChair offers the latest technology to battles incontinence and weakness in the pelvic floor muscles. It is an effective treatment for conditions that form after child birth, sexual dysfunction and pelvic/ lower back pain and stress making it a versatile machine capable of resolving multiple issues of the body. This treatment also enables better circulation within the targeted muscles which helps those with circulatory problems.
ONDA is an award winning and the world’s first and only body shaping device to use revolutionary new Coolwaves technology – and is set to change the way in which non-surgical body shaping procedures are delivered.
Cool waves bypass the uppermost layers of skin tissue, helping deliver more energy/heat directly to where it is needed: the subcutaneous fat cells. This new technology helps dramatically reduce the heating of the surface tissue by focusing heat in the subdermal fatty tissues, with 20% more heating of the fat than laser and RF fat reduction technologies while keeping the skin cooler and more comfortable. Additionally, ONDA Coolwaves has no consumables, no downtime, and offers faster treatment in fewer sessions. Not available elsewhere in ACT.
Shop 3/22 Franklin St, Griffith ACT 2603, Australia
info@totalbodycontouring.com.au
totalbodycontouring.com.au
SLOW-growing clivias are in flower now. They’re tricky to grow in our cold winters and don’t like frost. Growing in a sheltered shady spot in the garden or in a pot away from frosts will get them through to flower.
They are of the Amaryllidaceae family from South Africa and many of these bulbs are popular in our climate, such as naked ladies, snowdrops and spider lilies.
They are a shallow-rooted, evergreen, strappy leaf plant with dark-green foliage. The trumpetshaped flowers are stunningly beautiful orange, red, peach or cream and have decorative red berries after flowering.
Like all plants of this family, they contain lycorine, which is a toxic crystalline alkaloid found in numerous Amaryllidaceae plant species such as lilies, crinums and, surprisingly, daffodils. Highly poisonous to pets and humans, all parts of the plant are poisonous and not to be ingested in any way. Wash your hands after handling them. To grow successfully they need good
drainage and a pH of about six to get them to flower well. Fertilise with an all-purpose fertiliser, low in nitrogen, after flowering.
If a clivia is not flowering, divide by digging up the clump and pull (no knife) the bulbs apart to keep the roots intact to minimise any damage to the growing point at the top of the bulb.
Berries from a pollinated clivia can be removed and allowed to dry out for a few weeks. The little black shiny seeds can be planted in a shallow tray of potting mix or seed-raising mix. Keep it moist but not wet in dappled light and spray with liquid fertilisers when new growth appears.
There’s a terrific display of clivias in the Parliament House gardens.
THE Chinese Toon Tree (Cedrella sinensis) is an ordinary looking deciduous tree most of the year, but in spring the new growth that appears is the most flamboyant pink.
The leaves turn pink to green in the growing period then, in autumn, they turn a golden, butter yellow that’s just as spectacular.
Its thin vertical branches can grow up to eight metres and can be used as a terrific backdrop tree, where garden space will allow.
They grow best in moist soils and full sun. They’re frost tolerant and drought hardly once established.
With age they can sucker to about four metres
wide and form a thicket. Plant away from paths or building structures to give them room to put on a show. The suckering can be contained by removing young shoots and trimming the height in winter if you want to grow a small tree. Mine is about three metres tall and 10 years old. It’s been slow growing and hasn’t suckered over those years.
The leaves are edible and used as an onionflavoured vegetable in Chinese cooking.
jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au
• Spray for bindi in lawns when plants are small and before prickles develop.
• Fertilise all spring bulbs as they are dying back.
• Sow more summer vegetable seedlings ready for planting next month.
• Divide perennial herbs such as tarragon, oregano and mint.
THERE will be more than the usual amount of genderbending in Bell Shakespeare’s production of “Twelfth Night”, directed by Heather Fairbairn, who speaks of the production’s “timely exploration of the fluidity of gender and sexuality”.
That’s nothing new – Shakespeare just about invented it, with a line-up of plays where men play women playing men, who sometimes play women.
Among them, “Twelfth Night” is most enticing, because in addition, there are identical twins and we are invited to think that Sebastian and Sebastian look alike, allowing directors a lot of fun. Here well-known TV actor, Alfie Gledhill, plays Viola, who dresses up as a male.
Fairbairn also loves the “enigmatic” nature of the play – the setting is not specified and there’s an “other worldly” feel, especially in the clown Feste and his melancholy tunes, here scored by composer Sarah Blasko.
Just as Jaques is a plum part of “As You
Like It”, so in “Twelfth Night” there’s Malvolia (yes, you know the part as Malvolio), the stitched-up chief of staff to the lady Olivia.
An isolated character with not much of a backstory, she’s a sitting duck for a new gender assignment as Jane Montgomery Griffiths takes on the role.
It’s been done before with Canberra’s Lexi Sekuless playing Malvolia in a Sydney production by Christopher Stollery, but it’s a first for Bell Shakespeare.
What’s so great about Bell, Montgomery Griffiths tells me, is that although it’s
dedicated to “a British guy who died 400 or so years ago”, the company is committed to gender parity in casting, especially, she says: “Now that I’m in my 50s and the female roles seem to have dried up.”
She’ll be playing the part as “100 per cent female”, just as she played a female Bottom in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” once.
In her studies of the text, she has detected some 17th century ideas about personality traits in men, but she believes it’s easy to find other elements that are common to both men and women.
Malvolia is mightily abused in the play by the tricksters, Toby Belch, his servant/ girlfriend Maria, Sir Andrew Aguecheek and Feste, as a punishment for his highhandedness, but there’s always been an element of unfairness in this, so Montgomery Griffiths has invented an inner life, deciding to play her as a deeply repressed middle-aged woman who has never experienced any love in her life.
Playing her as a woman means a different power relationship with the drunken Sir Toby under whom, because of social status, she is powerless.
“I find it much more disquieting than that in the traditional interpretation,” she says, “playing the role in a repressed female body”.
Gender swapping is integral to the play, giving it what she calls “quite a queer feel” and making it a subversive play about dealing with gender roles and inappropriate love so having a man play Viola takes away the ambiguity.
Of course, it’s a comedy and the very humourlessness of Malvolia makes it funny, even if it’s a cruel sort of humour. Because she lacks self-insight, when she suddenly has an experience of love, being misguided into thinking that the lady Olivia loves her, all repression inside her comes out in ridiculous ways. This is universal, Montgomery Griffiths says.
“In my interpretation, Malvolia doesn’t
want advancement in power. She wants love, she thinks Olivia, her lady, is returning her love… It’s another sign of powerlessness.”
Sir Toby, she explains, is explicitly nasty to Malvolia, who takes it out on Maria and that, in turn, motivates Maria’s revenge. Montgomery Griffiths speculates that after the play Malvolia might go to work at a boarding school and take it out on the boys, continuing the cycle.
“Twelfth Night” teeters on the brink of tragedy at the end. Viola gets her man, but only because he thinks she’s a cute boy.
On the last page, Malvolia, newly freed from unjust incarceration, says, “I’ll be revenged on the whole pack of you”.
To Montgomery Griffiths, the dignity of the character in this scene is impressive and moving. For the first time in the play, she speaks in verse, very simple, with lots of pauses.
“You can hear the audience laughing at her, and then they don’t laugh – she’s broken.”
I’ve actually become quite fond of Malvolia,” she says. “She would’ve been infuriating to work with and she will never use one word when she could use five, but her heart is in the right place… I’m feeling I know her very well, and I hope the audience enjoys her, too. “
“Twelfth Night”, The Playhouse, October 13-21.
THE intriguing August 2023 headline read: “Gene-edited grapes aim to help winemakers avoid sulphites”.
Gene-edited? Gene editing sounds pretty anodyne, but it is in fact the mindblowing ability to make changes in the DNA sequence of a living organism. We mess with the “natural” to ideally make improvements, such as the elimination of disease. But think about the 1997 “Gattaca” movie where a genetically inferior man (Ethan Hawke) assumes the identity of a superior specimen (Jude Law) so he can pursue his lifelong dream of space travel. The film is sometimes heavy handed in its examination of the ethical uses of biotechnology and genetic engineering but it is a rousing tale that gets its point across about the potential negative direction of a society that grades its citizens through the lens of set reproductive outcomes. Plus Uma Thurman is stunning and sexy in
the female protagonist’s role. No genetic modification needed there.
The gene-editing article that caught my attention spoke of a US biotech company, GreenVenus LLC (Orwellian name!), creating grapes without the gene that causes oxidation.
This means the company has removed the gene that activates enzymes responsible for browning in grape juice, which are counteracted with sulphites (natural and added) that some drinkers find objectionable. But sulphur is an organic element in wine that is also added to prevent not only oxidation but also bacterial spoilage.
As Fergus McGhie, of Mount Majura Wines, told me: “Look, the ferment makes sulphites, produces a small amount. It’s a naturally occurring process that helps control microbes. The ancient Greeks used to burn candles in amphoras, so adding an element of sulphur has been around for centuries. Have they really thought through all of the elements of removal? Some people do have allergies to sulphites but
this is too far.”
I agree, especially as GreenVenus has previously used gene splicing to delete the “polyphenol oxidase” (or PPO) gene that causes browning in lettuce and avocados. That browning process seems to me to be a key to quality: I want to know if my lettuce or avocado is not fresh, and the browning is a natural signal.
This is a stance that is also held by the US Center for Food Safety, a not-for-profit organisation. Its spokesperson is quoted as saying that genes are often multi-functional and we should not be eliminating genes as this could make crops more susceptible to diseases and pests.
The other worrying issue is that as the effect relies on gene deletion, it’s likely to be exempt from US federal biotechnology labelling requirements. That means you don’t know if the grapes used are subject to the gene-splicing process to eliminate oxidation or not.
I would certainly want to know if I was drinking wine where genetically modified
grapes were being used, albeit modified through deletion. That should be disclosed.
The Australian industry has indicated, via a policy on the peak industry body’s website, that: “It is the Australian wine industry’s position that no genetically modified organisms, as defined under the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (Standard 1.5.2: Food Produced Using Gene Technology) be used in the production of wine.”
But does that encompass gene splicing? I asked Ali Laslett who is the communications director at the Australian Grape and Wine who said: “At this stage, the basic answer is yes, our GMO policy does encompass gene splicing and these techniques are not used in wine grapes or wine additives in Australia at present.
“FSANZ have been consulting on the
definitions of ‘food produced using gene technology’ and ‘gene technology’, as the code currently lacks clarity on where certain new breeding techniques fall.
“Some of these involve splicing and deleting susceptibility genes without the introduction of any foreign genetic material. International alignment is also important to avoid trade barriers and we are aware that there are currently a number of countries also having these discussions.”
Do you know why the geneticist went to dental school? He was looking for an oral high gene.
It has a beautifully big outdoor deck, which enjoys plenty of sunshine, and a colourful interior with lush green hanging plants. The prices are right and the food super good.
A friend recommended Deakin and Me as a must-visit, so we toddled off together for lunch.
The menu is intriguing. Some “standard café” dishes make an appearance, as expected, but there are plenty of dishes with a difference.
My prawn scramble was outstanding ($22). Plenty of pan-fried prawns mixed in with creamy scrambled eggs. The texture was perfect, and the meal featured
drizzles of dynamite kimchi mayo. The Asian herb salad with bean sprouts and coriander added a welcoming freshness. Loved the crispy eschalots and the tasty local sourdough.
This time my friend opted for the barramundi ($26). It looked inviting and was a taste sensation in its own right. The fish fillets were crispy and the aroma from the lemongrass and coconut curry sauce heavenly. Accompanying the barramundi was sautéed broccolini, crunchy beans and bok choy.
We sat for a bit after lunch and then decided on coffees and sweets. It was getting towards closing time,
so many of the desserts had run out.
We didn’t miss entirely, however, and both loved the fig and date mini loaf loaded on top with crunchy nuts. It wasn’t overly sweet and hit the spot with what we agreed were great coffees. We also shared a berry friand, although I found that too sugary for my liking (personal taste, I know).
Other dishes that intrigued me were the masala braised lamb ($25) and Gravlax salmon poke bowl ($24). The “super bowl” is great value ($21), and my bet is that one wouldn’t go wrong choosing the falafel, with muhammara relish ($21). Kids are taken care of with
smaller dishes. A big round of applause to head chef Nirajan and chef Apar for satisfying all tastes. Deakin and Me isn’t at the shops, but conveniently located in the heart of Deakin on Geils Court. The compact wine list includes ACT wines and some labels from other well-known Australian wineries. Beer, cider and spirits are on offer, as well as a few chais, smoothies and cold-pressed juices. The café is open seven days until 2.30pm to 3.30pm (10 per cent weekend surcharge).
WHETHER it’s the sweeping plains of Montana in “Yellowstone” or the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan in “Succession”, watching dysfunctional families duke it out to claim victory over their pack has become a sure-fire streaming hit.
Now, Australia could have its own answer to such prestige television.
Netflix has confirmed it has begun production on one of its biggest shows to ever be filmed downunder.
“Desert King” is a six-episode neo-western series being shot and produced in SA and the NT that will be about “power, family, land and legacy”, or so says its official synopsis.
“When the world’s largest cattle station is left without a clear successor, generational clashes threaten to tear the Lawson family apart. Sensing this once great dynasty is in decline, the outback’s most powerful factions – rival cattle barons, desert gangsters, indigenous elders and billionaire miners – move in for the kill.”
Sound familiar?
Netflix has clearly seen the potential in shows like “Yellowstone” and has decided that Australia is the ticket to securing its own dynastic battle blockbuster.
There’s certainly no shortage of homegrown talent attached to the production.
The show has been created by Tim Lee who wrote for another Australian TV western “Mystery Road” (on ABC iView and Amazon Prime Video). The show will also bring in producing talent from “The True History of the Kelly Gang” (on Stan) and will be directed by Greg McLean, famous for his 2005 Aussie horror thriller “Wolf Creek” (Stan and Paramount Plus).
As for the casting it’s all hush-hush at the moment, but given the off-camera talent it seems we can expect some big names on screen.
Will “Desert King” be able to compete with the shows that have clearly inspired it?
Netflix thinks so, with director of content Que Minh Luu calling it “the ultimate tale of big land, big money and all the high stakes drama that comes with it.
“We’re working with some of Australia’s leading creators and crew to bring to life a version of this country we’re proud to show to our members both here at home and around the world.”
A blockbuster show like this is exactly what Australia’s film and TV industry needs after taking a big hit due to the ongoing writers’ strike.
The major protest in the US over pay for pen talent has impacted multiple Australian productions. NBC Universal had planned to shoot its new $200 million sci-fi series “Metropolis” in Melbourne, but it’s now been axed.
The eight-part series based on the 1927 classic film of the same name was set to stream on Apple TV Plus, employ more than 700 people and be one of the biggest productions to ever hit Australia.
Production on the $80 million series “Apples Never Fall” has also been held up due to the strikes. The show secured the talent of Sam Neill and began filming in Queensland in March, only to now have been stopped dead in its tracks.
All of this has also come as the federal government delays its long-awaited bill to impose content quotas for streaming platforms operating in Australia.
Under the proposed legislation mega companies such as Netflix,
Disney Plus, Amazon Prime Video and more would be obligated to produce a certain amount of Australian film and television every year if they want to continue to sling subscriptions downunder. Netflix alone currently has more than six million Australian subscribers.
The government now wants to impose those rules by July 2024 and streaming giants are already rushing to churn out more Aussie productions in the meantime.
On top of “Desert King’’, Netflix last month confirmed four major productions to go ahead in Australia for this year. Meanwhile, Disney Plus has also promised a spate of series including an “Oliver Twist” spin-off “The Artful Dodger”, filmed in Sydney and hitting the platform next month.
It’s an interesting time indeed for film and TV in Australia, with the next few years determining where it will find itself amongst an industry changing day-by-day.
Who knows? Maybe “Desert King” might be next to sit on the stream ing throne.
CANBERRA International Film Festival returns with three days of film classics, this year exploring the work of Mitchell Leisen, the maestro of high energy ‘30s Hollywood comedy, and Australian documentary director Kathryn Millard. After designing sets and costumes for Cecil B DeMille and others, Leisen emerged as a major director; the opening night features his comedy, “Remember The Night”, with Barbara Stanwyck and Fred MacMurray. Arc Cinema, National Film and Sound Archive, October 20-22.
LAST year The Hive had a hive theme and attracted 72 hexagonshaped works of art, which created a buzz in Queanbeyan during the annual council-run arts trail. This year the theme is “Recycled in Art” and the entries in “Outside the Square #2” will be made of old, discarded objects. The exhibition runs at 274 Crawford Street, October 13-28.
JOURNALIST and author Hedley
Thomas will be on stage in Canberra
to take audiences behind the scenes into one of the most intriguing murder mysteries of our time. Hedley’s podcast, “The Teacher ’s Pet”, captured the public’s attention as it brought to light the case of Lynette Simms, the Sydney woman who disappeared in January 1982. Guest interviewer will be Beejay Silcox. Canberra Theatre, October 12.
QUEANBEYAN Players are reviving a perennial favourite, the groundbreaking (in its time) Rodgers and Hammerstein musical, “Oklahoma”. The Q, Queanbeyan Performing Arts
Centre, October 13-29.
A GROUP of star artists associated with Canberra Glassworks – Hannah Gason, Lisa Cahill, Cobi Cockburn, Jessica Murtagh, Nick Mount, and Vipoo Srivilasa – have been selected as finalists in the Australian Design Centre’s MAKE Award: the Biennial Prize for Innovation in Australian Craft and Design.
“SHIVER” is an immersive, illuminated installation by Michelle Day as “a culmination of abstract, foreign organisms”, a reminder of the microscopic and hidden living worlds that surround us. Belconnen Arts Centre, October 13 -November 26.
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DO memoirs reveal the true person? A question that is not fully answered in the three memoirs by Robyn Davidson, Andrew Motion and Michael Frayn.
Philip Larkin, who features prominently in Andrew Motion’s memoir, “Sleeping on Islands”, once famously wrote: “They fuck you up, your mum and dad. They may not mean to, but they do”.
Robyn Davidson writes, “we never escape our mothers”, and certainly Davidson’s, Motion’s and Frayn’s lives were impacted by losing their mothers when they were children.
Memoirs have now supplanted autobiographies as best-selling books, particularly when they focus on a particular aspect of the author’s life, so that readers can experience the author’s loves and losses rather than a chronological, often self-congratulatory, narrative.
ROBYN Davidson certainly covers the bases of love and loss in her revealing memoir “Unfinished Woman”. Davidson, best known for her international best-selling book Tracks, describing her 1977 Australian desert trek, had a relatively idyllic childhood in 1950s country Queensland. This was dramatically
overturned when, at the age of 11, Davidson’s mother hung herself in the garage and her father sent her to live with his no-nonsense spinster sister. Davidson escapes Queensland when of age, working as a hostess in a Sydney gambling den in the late 1960s, then on to the London literary scene, staying with Doris Lessing and a tempestuous three-year on-and-off affair with (an unnamed in the book), Salman Rushdie, while he was writing “The Satanic Verses”. Later came the pursuit of freedom through nomadic travelling in Tibet and a long-term relationship with a
Rajput aristocrat and politician.
In a reflective and absorbing memoir, Davidson initially attempts to bury her memories of her mother’s death but this leads on to a later midlife “breakdown”, which forces her to reflect on who she is and ultimately conclude: “My mother is as close to me, and is hidden from me, as my own face”.
FORMER British Poet Laureate
Andrew Motion “lost” his mother when he was 12 when she fell off her horse and was in a coma for years and severely disabled in a nursing home. Motion, who like Davidson, also had a reserved, uncommunicative father, said that he wrote to keep the memory of his mother alive.
Motion is less self-reflective than Davidson, instead documenting his increasing material and social success as a writer and poet. We don’t, therefore, get deep personal insights on his three marriages and his relocation later in life to America.
His social pathway, however, is decidedly entertaining and illuminating, including a weekend stay at Sandringham with the then Prince Charles, Camilla and a group of “luvvies and their partners”, such as Richard E Grant and Stephen Fry.
After the guests being offered pints of gin, Charles tells them all of
his unhappy childhood and takes them on a tour on which Motion’s wife, seeing numerous frogs, asks the prince what would happen if she kissed one. “A surfeit of princes,” he responds.
An hilarious section documents the meeting of Motion and Les Murray, who is to receive the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry at Buckingham Palace. The Queen, who had previously told Motion that she didn’t read poetry, presents Murray with his medal who then promptly
drops it on the floor.
The nervous Murray then embarks on a long monologue on the virtues of “Orstralia”, as the Queen puts it, ranging from kangaroos and wombats to the Sydney Harbour Bridge, which leaves the Queen quickly groping for the buzzer to summon the footmen.
DISTINGUISHED British playwright, Michael Frayn , was traumatised when his mother died of a heart attack when he was 12, which he recounts in “Among Others: Friendships and Encounters”.
He and his sister apparently never spoke of her again in the house until Frayn wrote about her death in his 2010 book “My Father’s Fortune”.
His warm memoir is guided by the phrase “Tell me who you go with, and I’ll tell you who you are”, in which he documents his friends, such as Bamber Gascoigne and Neal Ascherson, who helped to shape his life and character.
Now 90, Frayn begins the last chapter, “like the story of man in the Bible, with a fall”. He takes readers on a fascinating physical and philosophical tour of his body, reflecting
during a colonoscopy that he had eaten and excreted the weight of seven elephants over his lifetime. He concludes optimistically, “so while it lasts”, he sees his body as “a moment of celebra tion”.
wrote a whole suite of history plays, collectively known as “The Wars of the Roses”, which deal with an epic battle between two closely-related families.
It was Shakespeare’s chance to create positive propaganda for his queen, Elizabeth, but as the discovery of the remains of Richard III in 2012 have reminded us, he often played havoc with history.
Director of Canberra’s Mill Theatre Lexi Sekuless is happy to go along with the Bard’s version of events as she embarks on a series of productions looking at the Henry VI plays, staging them rock ‘n’ roll/heavy-metal style as she did with “Rockspeare Richard III” live and online at EPIC in 2020 during the darkest days of covid, what Sekuless likes to call “our winter of discontent”.
But now, in a tiny space, with new music and a new costume designer, Sekuless, a known Shakespeare tragic, is determined to continue the Rockspeare tradition with “Rockspeare Henry VI Part I”.
The show will begin at the death of hero-king Henry V, when disaffection set in, partly caused by the weakness of his saintly son, Henry and partly by the machinations of his fearsome wife, Marguerite of Anjou, whom we meet briefly in this play.
Joan of Arc makes an appearance, typecast by anti-Gallic Shakespeare as a witch, but her curse sets things in motion.
Suffice it to say that the family relationships are complicated, but roughly, the politically astute York family to which Richard III belongs, versus Henry and his equally conniving political supporters.
It’ll be staged in the tiny confines of the Mill Theatre where there won’t be space for a full rock band.
Happily, Sekuless’ next-door neighbour in the precinct is the composer and sound engineer Andre
“Rockspeare Henry VI Part I” rehearsals.
Pinzon, who has created music to be pre-recorded and moderated so we won’t be blasted out of our seats, also creating different sonic worlds for the French and the English.
Sekuless introduces me to her new costume designer Tania Jobson, who arrives with what she calls her “costume Bible” full of ideas and lots of designs, important since with a cast of 10, entirely non-binary and female casting and a fair bit of doubling, the characters need to be distinguished from each other clearly.
She is enjoying the challenges of stage design. Some decisions are obvious – blue and gold for the French; red and white for the English, but also a punk-rock look for the riff-raff – think black and silver studs, spikes and chains.
Shakespeare, bloody intrigue, costumes covered in bling and a rock sound – what could possibly go wrong?
“Rockspeare Henry VI Part I,” At Mill Theatre at Dairy Road, October 18-November 4, with previews beginning October 11.
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
Saturday night’s Libran Solar Eclipse (in your relationship zone) is all about love, harmony and compromise. But this week – with Mars square Pluto and Venus opposite Saturn – balance, moderation and cooperation could be difficult to find. So do your best to calm down and keep the peace. Friday’s terrific Mars/Saturn trine increases your enthusiasm, motivation and capacity to get things done. Passion and patience are a winning combination!
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)
Does it feel as if your dreams are on hold or a relationship is going backwards? This week Saturn slows things down and increases frustrations. But then lucky Venus and proactive Mars encourage you to pair up with a loved one and make your combined dreams come true. You’ll need to be patient though! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great John Lennon: “A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”
GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)
Mercury (your patron planet), Mars and the Solar Eclipse are all energising your creativity and peer group zones. So it’s a wonderful week to create, inspire, socialise and fraternise. An exciting new romance or friendship could be just around the corner! Are you single and looking for love? You could be introduced to your future partner via a housemate, relative or family friend. Friday is the best day to tick the to-do list and get things done at work.
CANCER (June 22 – July 23)
If you are crabby with friends and family members this week, then they will be in the mood to fight back! So do your best to be more compassionate and generous towards loved ones. Plus, try to view a troubled close relationship from a much more philosophical perspective. As birthday great John Lennon observed: “We’ve got this gift of love, but love is like a precious plant. You’ve got to keep watering it. You’ve got to really look after it and nurture it.”
LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)
You’re determined to complete a project with creative panache and loads of Leo style. But there are some frustrating planetary patterns, so expect power plays, disruptions and delays. Patience and compromise are required, otherwise it will be a long and challenging week. When it comes to your daily routine, the big lesson to learn is how to delegate. No one (not even a super capable Leo) is indispensable! The Solar Eclipse signals a fresh start in your neighbourhood.
VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)
Long-term partnerships – of the romantic, platonic and business variety – are highlighted this week. Saturn tests dedication and loyalty; Venus, calm cooperation; and Neptune, emotional maturity. But don’t get bogged down in gossip and criticism – keep the conversation inspiring and uplifting! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Eleanor Roosevelt: “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”
LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)
Saturn and Pluto stymie motivation and slow progress (especially involving a close relationship, joint venture, domestic project or work matter). You could also disappoint yourself, as you find it difficult to stick to your chosen diet, daily exercise program or usual beauty routine. Perhaps it would be better to moderate your perfectionist streak and learn to accept your perceived imperfections? Saturday night’s Solar Eclipse emphasises self-awareness and self-love.
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)
Venus transits into your networking zone on Monday, which bodes well for connecting with friends, colleagues and your extended peer group in beneficial ways. Then the Solar Eclipse lights up your solitude/soul zone. So it’s time to slow down and look within as you contemplate, ruminate and meditate about where you’re going and where you’ve been. Your motto is from birthday great, John Lennon: “Turn off your mind, relax and float downstream.”
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)
Lucky Venus is transiting through your exploration and education zones (from Monday until November 8) so it’s a fortuitous time to travel, start a course of study or make some new interstate or international friends. Then the weekend Solar Eclipse is the perfect time to revise, reassess and reboot your goals and dreams for the future. Think of creative ways you can navigate the unpredictable economic landscape, adapt professionally and pivot personally.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)
Mars, Mercury and the Solar Eclipse light up your career zone, so utilise your ambition, communication skills and natural charisma to attract opportunities into your world. Then use your can-do Capricorn attitude to take action. The terrific Mars/Saturn trine reminds you to be proactive and practical. Preparation is the key. As Libran singer/actress Julie Andrews observes: “Work hard, apply yourself and be ready. Then, when an opportunity comes, you can grab it.”
AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)
With Mars visiting your professional/life direction zone, be more proactive about where you are heading. Don’t just hope that things will magically change. Saturday night’s Solar Eclipse is the ideal time to set intentions and make wishes involving holidays, education and aspirations. Most of all … be yourself! Draw inspiration from birthday great Eleanor Roosevelt: “You not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one.”
PISCES (Feb
Tuesday’s Venus/Saturn opposition revs up your relationship zone. So be very careful what you say to a loved one who is tired, sick, stressed or just plain grumpy! Saturday night’s Solar Eclipse spotlights close partnerships and trust issues. And have you been feeling frustrated about a dream or goal? It’s time to minimise your disappointment and maximise your motivation. With hard work and a positive, proactive attitude, you can turn things around.
Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2023
Across
4 Who was the first Prime Minister of Australia, Sir Edmund ... ? (6)
7 What, colloquially, is something completely outdated? (8)
8 To be insubstantial, is to be what? (6)
9 Who favours the equal division of land? (8)
11 Which person delivers the mail? (7)
13 Name a major commercial city in central Victoria. (7)
15 What is a violent storm? (7)
17 Which term describes an elliptical path? (7)
20 What is the latest time for finishing something? (8)
23 Name a microscopic, one-celled animal. (6)
24 Which common fish is widely distributed in Australian and NZ waters? (8)
25 What are short literary compositions? (6)
Solution next edition Down
1 What is the common heather called? (4)
2 Who wrote Blithe Spirit in 1941, Sir Noel ...? (6)
3 Denpasar is the capital of which island province of Indonesia? (4)
4 Which Italian philosopher was burnt as a heretic by the Inquisition? (5)
5 What is something unusual, or uncommon? (6)
6 Name a seaport in southern Japan, on Honshu Island. (5)
9 In physics, what term describes the fraction of incident light scattered by a surface? (6)
10 What was one of the twelve disciples known as? (7)
12 Which plant is armed with stinging hairs? (6)
14 What is another term for a picture theatre? (6)
16 Name a renowned US golfer, Arnold ... (6)
18 Who, in Roman legend, was the twin brother of Romulus? (5)
19 Name the second President of the US, John ... (5)
21 Which curved structure rests on supports at both extremities? (4)
22 What is another term for Christmas? (4)
THE Merriam-Webster Dictionary has announced the addition of 690 new words to its listings, including sports terms beast mode, bracketology and GOATED.
“We’re very excited by this new batch of words,” MerriamWebster Editor at Large Peter Sokolowski said.
“We hope there is as much insight and satisfaction in reading them as we got from defining them.”
Beast mode defines “an extremely aggressive or energetic style or manner that someone (such as an athlete) adopts temporarily (as to overpower an opponent in a fight or competition).”
Bracketology is the study of tournament brackets, pertaining largely to the NCAA basketball tournament beginning in March, while GOATED – derived from the term Greatest Of All Time –describes someone who’s the best ever at what they do.
Social media terms also figure prominently in the new definitions, with the addition to thirst trap (“a photo or video shared for the purpose of attracting attention”), ‘grammable (“suitable to be posted on Instagram”), and finsta (“a secret or incognito account on Instagram.”)
Other new words entering the nearly 200-year-old publisher’s lexicon are food-related such as chef’s kiss – a gesture known to anyone who has cooked or tasted a culinary masterpiece for which there are no words.
Cheffy and smashburger are also on the list, with the former describing qualities of a professional chef and the latter being the process of pressing a hamburger patty onto a heated grill.
Merriam-Webster says its dictionary now includes about 470,000 entries. –AAP
Winnunga Nimmityjah AHCS is an Aboriginal community controlled primary health care service operated by the Aboriginal community of the ACT. In Wiradjuri language, Winnunga Nimmityjah means Strong Health. The service logo is the Corroboree Frog which is significant to Aboriginal people in the ACT.
Our aim is to provide a culturally safe, holistic health care service for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of the ACT and surrounding regions. The holistic health care provided by Winnunga AHCS includes not only medical care, but a range of programs to promote good health and healthy lifestyles.
Our services include:
• GP and Nursing
• Midwifery
• Immunisations
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• Counselling
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• Quit Smoking Services / No More Boondah
• Needle Syringe Program
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• Healthy Weight Program
• Healthy Cooking Group
• Mums and Bubs Group / Child Health
• Optometry Service
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• Community Events
• Groups
ALL OUR SERVICES ARE FREE OF CHARGE • WE MAY BE ABLE TO ASSIST WITH TRANSPORT
Winnunga AHCS is a national leader in accreditation, was one of the first Aboriginal community controlled health services to achieve dual accreditation under RACGP and QIC standards. Winnunga AHCS has been at the forefront of setting a national agenda for quality improvement in Aboriginal community controlled health and continues to advocate locally and nationally for best practice standards in operational and governance areas of Aboriginal health services.
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