CityNews 231130

NOVEMBER 30, 2023

Presumption of innocence is dead and buried

HUGH SELBY

Canberra Liberals elect empty chair their new… chair

KEEPING UP THE ACT Should we give a rat’s about using RATs?

HASSAN VALLY

Half a century on, Tempo isn’t slowing

NOEL BEDDOE

BOY

THUNDER!

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COVER STORY / jiu-jitsu champion

Well written, well read

Volume 29, Number: 48. Phone: 6189 0777

Jiu-jitsu champ Robbie isn’t thrown by his fame

By Katarina

LLOYD JONES Robbie Sanderson is only 10 years old, but has already proven himself a formidable Brazilian jiu-jitsu competitor.

He has just returned home to Bungendore, where he lives on a farm, from the Abu Dhabi jiu-jitsu world championship, where he won a bronze medal.

Despite only starting jiu-jitsu a year and a half ago, the year 4 student has a grey belt, and competed against 27 other boys aged between 10 and 11.

He says some of his competitors had been training for three years.

In October, Robbie competed in the 2023 Kids International Brazilian JiuJitsu Federation (IBJJF) Pan Pacific Jiu-Jitsu Championship, where he was awarded gold for his division.

“It feels awesome, not many kids have achieved that, so I’m proud,” he says.

Despite his impressive results in Abu Dhabi and the Pan Pacific championship, his martial arts training isn’t over.

His next stop is America for the IBJJF Kids Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championships in July.

Brazilian jiu-jitsu champ Robbie Sanderson, 10, with his most recent gold and silver medals… “We live on a farm and we train a lot at home. I learnt how to do takedowns on the goats.”

Photo and front cover: Linus Wong “I work really hard, I train six days a week,” Robbie says.

“You have to have a very calm mindset, it’s not like boxing where sometimes you can just go wild, you have got to be more calm and think more, it’s more technical.”

Brazilian jiu-jitsu focuses on tak-

ing an opponent down to the ground, gaining a dominant position and using techniques to force them into submission via joint locks or holds.

Robbie credits his dad for his love of the sport.

“My dad started jiu-jitsu when he was younger and it kinda just went

through the family, I started watching it on YouTube and it looked really cool and I decided to start doing it and started training,” he says.

“We live on a farm and we train a lot at home. I learnt how to do takedowns on the goats.

“I have a couple of instructors now and I train in Sydney. I also train privately at home, and some instructors come to our house.”

Robbie says his dream is to eventually move into mixed martial arts (MMA), his idol being fellow Australian, Alexander Volkanovski.

“I’m starting young at jiu-jitsu, I’m doing boxing, jiu-jitsu, everything, I want to move to Ultimate Fighting Championships and move into MMA. “I also do no-gi – which is jiu-jitsu without the robe – I just won the Gold Coast championships on the weekend.”

The talent obviously runs in the Sanderson family, with mum Alison saying Robert’s brother and sister are jiu-jitsu competitors, too.

“They’re all national champions, Victorian champions, NSW champions, ACT champions, we couldn’t get to the other ones,” she says.

“I’m very proud of all of them.

“But we don’t have a GoFundMe or anything, we would be interested in local businesses supporting Robert, and he can put their logos or patches on his gi [robe], and we have a good and fast growing following on Instagram –

@teamsanderson.”

At Bungendore Public School, Robbie says his jiu-jitsu victories have inspired a lot of his friends to get involved.

“I haven’t brought my medal to school yet, but I’ve told them all about it and they’re all very proud of me,” he says.

“They come and ask me for my autograph, and they’re very happy for me.

“They’ve started asking me where I train because they want to start doing it.”

Although he is excited to share his love for the sport with his friends, Robbie says he knows jiu-jitsu is not the obvious sport for a 10-year-old to be participating in.

“Jiu-jitsu is very dangerous, if you get someone in a submission hold and they don’t know how to tap out, you can pass them out,” he says.

Undeterred by this, Robbie says he can’t wait for next year’s competition.

“I don’t really think about getting hurt, I do get nervous a lot,” he says.

“I look at my opponent and sometimes they’re a lot bigger than me or they’re higher belts and I just kind of push through that and get on the mat and try.

“I would say keep training hard and follow your dreams, and don’t give up.

“Whenever you’re walking to the gym and you’re feeling tired, just go in there and train as hard as you can.”

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CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 3

POLITICS

Back to the future in the progressive Assembly IT seemed like back to the future on October 31 when Tara Cheyne, the ACT Minister for Human Rights, introduced the Voluntary Assisted Dying Bill 2023.

The legislation has been more than 30 years in the making, with the first bill of its type in Australia introduced into the ACT Legislative Assembly in 1993.

The ACT Assembly has been a national leader on many progressive issues and this legislation provides an important reminder that ought to be a point of pride for Canberrans.

Human rights, marriage equality, environmental protection, and drug policy provide just a few other examples of thoughtful and progressive approaches that have been introduced in the ACT to be followed by other jurisdictions.

The use of Parliamentary Committees as a way of testing community opinion and ensuring the best possible legislation has been a hallmark of successful progressive policies from the early days of the Assembly. Despite criticisms of the first ACT Assembly (1989-1992), most commentators gave credit to the establishment and effective workings of the committee system. This has continued through the years.

The 1993-94 Select Committee on

The temptation for legislators is to seek convenient solutions.

However, when a Commissioner for Human Rights can challenge legislators to rethink bills it ensures appropriate consideration.

Jon Stanhope… introduced the Human Rights Act 2004 in his early days as chief minister.

Euthanasia reported that the Labor Party was not yet ready to support such legislation and that the Liberal Party, who at the time favoured referenda on controversial issues, refused to put this issue on the agenda as a referendum question. Both parties were using further delay as a political tool.

The Kevin Andrews’ Euthanasia Laws Act 1997 ripped away the power from both the NT and the ACT Legislative assemblies to legislate on assisted dying. A number of people had availed themselves of the NT legislation and chosen a “good death”.

In the ACT, the Assembly was in the process of debating new legislation on the issue and was divided fairly evenly when the power was removed by the federal parliament.

In introducing the voluntary assisted dying legislation, Ms Cheyne acknowledged the efforts of the early advocates and Assembly members who had pursued the issue with “tenacity”.

She now has the advantage of learning from the jurisdictions who have introduced and passed similar legislation. It is only the NT and the ACT that are now playing catch up.

Being at the forefront of progressive ideas has meant a need for careful consideration and consultation.

This latest assisted-dying legislation is going to be considered once again by yet another Select Committee that will report on February 29. This is in

addition to such consideration given by previous committees, including in 2018. Additionally, there was an extensive consultation process conducted by the minister and the government.

Another progressive stance taken by the ACT government and the Legislative Assembly was the Human Rights Act 2004. It was introduced in 2003 by “CityNews” columnist, Jon Stanhope, in his early days as Chief Minister.

This legislation was the subject of intense debate and consideration across the community because of its overriding nature with regard to other laws.

What Jon Stanhope achieved was to prioritise human rights over other issues – such as convenience and efficiency. The temptation for legislators is to seek convenient solutions.

However, when a Commissioner for Human Rights can challenge legislators to rethink bills that might not be human-rights compliant, it ensures appropriate consideration.

The ACT was the first jurisdiction to announce it would be natural gas free. In June this year the Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas

Reduction (Natural Gas Transition) Amendment Bill was passed in the Legislative Assembly. It established the legal framework to end new fossil-fuel gas network connections in the ACT. The legislation, which has been described by “Renew Economy” as “landmark”, will stop new developments being connected to natural gas and will end natural gas use in the ACT by 2045. No doubt other jurisdictions will follow suit.

Whether drug law reform, marriage equality, assisted dying or environmental, the ACT has been a proud leader in innovative and progressive legislation. On such matters, Canberrans should feel pride in the progressive nature of our community and of our Legislative Assembly.

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.

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POTTERY / Ian Jones

Potter takes environmental heat out of his kilns

By Helen

MUSA IT’S one thing to talk about global warming and quite another thing to do something about it, as well-known Gundaroo potter, Ian Jones, has been discovering.

In the early ‘80s Jones trained at the old Canberra School of Art and at Cuppacumbalong Pottery and bought an old church at Gundaroo.

Since 2002, he and his wife and fellow potter Moraig McKenna have been operating out of what they first called the Laughing Frog Pottery but now, more respectably, Old Saint Luke’s Studio Pottery and Gallery.

The type of firing they practice is unusual and potters are willing to travel long distances, even internationally, to help with the firing and preparation.

In 1989 Jones first started considering the problem of global warming while researching for a paper on the environmental impacts of wood-firing to present at a ceramics conference in Gulgong, NSW. He found that the use of timber in ceramic kilns was largely carbon neutral, and that if he were to use waste wood from industry it would reduce other issues of deforestation and habitat loss.

Quick with a clever turn of phrase, Jones

6 CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023

coined the expression “canned sunlight” to describe the 30 or 40-year cycle of carbon storage and release that is involved with the growth of pine trees, his fuel of choice.

For the last 20 years the fuel for his wood-fired kilns has come from waste wood that would otherwise have been burnt, sourced from tree surgeons in the Canberra district.

At the end of September, he and McKenna, with a team of other interested potters, fired their five-metre-long, Japanese-influenced “anagama” kiln and about every 10 minutes for the 150 hours of the firing, a wheelbarrow full of pine was stoked into the firebox, generating heat of more than 1300 degrees.

A week later the pots, glazed by the woodash that had floated through the kiln and melted on the clay surfaces, were drawn out of the kiln by the firing team, potters from Sydney and the Canberra region.

After six days of throwing waste pine into the wood kiln, they finished the firing just in the nick of time, it turned out, as the next day a total fire ban was imposed, which would have forced them to finish unprepared.

And the results?

Philosophically, Jones says, it’s in the nature of this type of firing that some of the pots are disappointing, some are exceptional, but none is boring.

Saint Luke’s, built in 1848, is one of the oldest churches in the Canberra district.

With the adjacent cemetery, it provides some of the last evidence of the village that

was known as Upper Gundaroo.

It may sound idyllic but even there, Jones became increasingly aware that he should do everything he could to make the practice more carbon-neutral, so turned to a solution few potters would have dreamt up.

“I decided that I had to stop firing students’ work in the gas kiln using LPG. Over the last six months I have built a kiln that is run using waste cooking oil from a local takeaway shop,” he says, explaining that waste vegetable oil has the same benefits as using waste pine to fire kilns, it’s essentially carbon-neutral, yet needs to be disposed of.

“It is a fantastic fuel, perhaps I should call it “liquid sunlight,” he says, coining another phrase.

“We have now fired this kiln 15 times, using a renewable fuel and saving a considerable amount of money compared to using LPG… firing with oil, I have been able to achieve a temperature of 1300 degrees in less than five hours compared to the eight or nine hours for a gas firing.”

So far, so good. With solar panels and a battery reducing electricity and by using wood and waste vegetable oils for their kilns, he believes they’re getting closer to the carbon-neutral production of pottery.

And his next plan?

“To get my diesel car running on waste vegetable oil.”

Ian Jones and Moraig McKenna will hold an open day at Old Saint Lukes Studio Pottery and Gallery, Gundaroo, December 9-10.

Ian Jones opening the waste vegetable-oil kiln. Photo: Dimity Davy

citynews.com.au

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Hampers and more The tireless, fundraising Bold Bandannas will have Christmas stalls selling hampers (puddings, cakes, shortbread and rum balls) at the Harmonie German Club, 8.30am-4.30pm, on December 10 and the Belconnen Markets, 8.30am-4.30pm on December 16. The Relay for Life team raises money for cancer research.

Pelvic floor workshop WOMEN of all ages are invited to attend a free pelvic floor workshop, presented by a Canberra Health Services physiotherapist, covering self-help strategies for women experiencing continence problems or wishing to prevent them. At Gungahlin Community Health Centre, 9.30am-noon, December 5. Book at 5124 9977.

Riders toy run THE Motorcycle Riders Association’s annual Christmas toy run is again supporting the Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal and St John’s Care. The mass ride starts from the Old Parliament House at 10am on December 2. Participants are invited to donate new toys, Christmas gifts, packaged food and money or gift cards.

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CAR MECHANICAL SERVICES

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‘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’

Champion Raffy rules and Charlie’s okay with that RAFFY Sgroi, CEO of Car Mechanical Services, was named Trade Services Champion at the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards. She’s finding it a little surreal.

“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

Winner… Raffy Sgori with her Trade Services Champion trophy.

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.

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

I’m here showing that women deserve a fair go.

“Especially with all the work health and safety rules now, women can lift or do 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

yourself rather than listening to other people, because you might just surprise yourself.”

Raffy says she is also passionate about 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.

“Doing this has saved probably 70,000 bottles from landfill,” she says.

“We are going to implement anything possible to improve the sustainability of 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

CAR MECHANICAL SERVICES ALWAYS HELPING YOU GO FURTHER Raffy Sgroi, CEO – Australian Women’s Business Champion Awards 2023 Youth of the year Local Business Award 2024 - Angus Gray Australian Small Business Champion Award Automotive Champion 2023 Most Outstanding Canberra Automotive services 2021-2022 ACT Business of the Year 2023 ACT Sustainable Small Business of the Year 2023 Global Recognition Award Diverse and inclusive workplace 2023 Contact us: 02 6162 4111 | www.carmechanicalservices.com.au citynews.com.au

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FEATURE / rapid antigen tests

Should we give a rat’s about using covid RATs? Should we still be using RATs to test for covid?

HASSAN VALLY answers four key questions…

WE’RE currently navigating an eighth wave of covid infections in Australia.

However the threat covid poses to us is significantly less than it has ever been, thanks to immunity we’ve acquired through a combination of prior infection and vaccination.

That said, covid is by no means behind us. The threat of severe illness remains higher for many people, and we’re all potentially at risk of developing long covid.

While many people appear to be doing fewer rapid antigen tests (RATs) than they used to – if any at all – with rising cases, and as we head towards the festive season, testing continues to be important.

So what do you need to know about testing in this wave? Here are four key questions answered.

1. When should I do a RAT? There are a few situations where determining your covid status is important to inform your actions, particularly during an uptick in infections. With more circulating virus, your index of suspicion that you have covid if you’re experiencing cold-like symptoms should be higher.

RATs work best when they’re used to confirm whether you have covid when you have respiratory symptoms and are infectious. So the primary use of RATs should RATs work best when they’re used to confirm whether you have be to determine covid when you have respiratory symptoms and are infectious. your covid status do the test as close to the event as when you’re sick. possible, because your disease status A positive test should prompt you to can change quickly. isolate, and if you’re eligible, to seek antivirals.

2. Should I test multiple times?

Testing might also be worthwhile Yes. RATs are not as sensitive as if you’ve come into contact with PCR tests, which is the trade-off we someone with covid but you haven’t make for being able to do this test at developed symptoms. If you find you home and getting a rapid result. have in fact contracted the virus, you This means that while if you test can take steps to avoid spreading it positive with a RAT you can be very to other people (you can infect others confident you have covid, if you test even when you’re asymptomatic). negative, you cannot be as confident This is especially important if you’re that you don’t have covid. That is, going to be socialising in large groups the test may give you a false negative or in contact with people who are result. vulnerable.

Although RATs from different Another situation in which to manufacturers have different accuraconsider testing, particularly at cies, all RATs approved by Australia’s this time of year, is before attending Therapeutic Goods Administration large social gatherings. While the must have a sensitivity of at least 80 reliability of a RAT is never perfect, per cent.

The way to increase your confidence in a negative result is to do multiple RATs serially – each negative test increases the confidence you can have that you don’t have covid. If you have symptoms and have tested negative after your first RAT, the advice is to repeat the test after 48 hours, and potentially a third time after another 48 hours if the second test is also negative.

4. Can I rely on expired RATs?

diagnostic test past its expiry date. As a general principle the performance of a test cannot be guaranteed beyond this date. The risk is that over time the components of the RAT degrade and if you use a test that’s not working optimally, it’s more likely to indicate you don’t have covid when you actually do, which may have consequences.

However, as for all things covid, the answer is not so black and white.

Since these tests were new when they were introduced earlier in the pandemic, manufacturers didn’t have specific data on their performance over time, and so the expiry dates given were necessarily conservative.

It’s likely these tests will work beyond the expiry dates on the packet, but just how long and how well they work is a bit of an unknown, so we need to be cautious.

The other thing to consider is ensuring you store RATs correctly.

Storage instructions should be found on the packet, but the key issue is making sure they’re not exposed to extreme temperatures. In particular, high temperatures may damage the chemicals in the test which may reduce its sensitivity.

At this point in the pandemic, you might have a few expired tests at the back of your cupboard.

Technically the most appropriate advice is to say you should never use a

Hassan Vally, associate professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University.

This article is republished from “The Conversation”.

3. Do RATs detect the latest variants?

Since RATs detect particular surface proteins on SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes covid), it’s theoretically possible that as the virus evolves, the reliability of these tests may be affected.

However, RATs were designed to detect a part of the virus that is not as likely to mutate, so the hope is these tests will continue to hold up as SARS-CoV-2 evolves.

The performance of RATs is continually being assessed by manufacturers. So far, there’s been no change reported in the ability of these tests to detect the latest variants.

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THE GADFLY / Joe Biden

Winds of a religious war know no boundaries DURING his election campaign 160 years ago, Abraham Lincoln likened himself to the great Charles Blondin walking a tightrope “with all that was valuable to America in the wheelbarrow he was pushing before him”.

The comparison with Joe Biden’s current high-wire act is irresistible.

Blondin and Lincoln succeeded in their most famous feats – Blondin over Niagara Falls and Lincoln to the open doors of the White House. But America’s most admired president could not avoid the horror of civil war virtually on arrival.

President Biden’s fate is blowing in a much fiercer wind than confronted either of his high-wire predecessors.

The chances of his reaching his goal is diminishing with every television news feed from the horror called the Gaza Strip.

The winds of a religious war know no boundaries. And in his wheelbarrow is the squalling child of America’s democracy.

Should he fall – either figuratively or literally – Biden will be replaced in the Oval Office by Donald Trump, whose vision of presidential governance is self-aggrandisement and revenge.

citynews.com.au

President Biden’s fate is blowing in a much fiercer wind than confronted either of his high-wire predecessors.

The chances of his reaching his goal is diminishing with every television news feed from the horror called the Gaza Strip.

An 1864 American newspaper cartoon titled “The Political Blondin” satirises President Lincoln as French tightrope walker Charles Blondin.

And in the latest polls he is leading Biden in those five or six states that make the difference between winning and losing the key votes of the Electoral College.

The polls were taken just before the October 7 Hamas atrocity that sparked the Israeli over-reaction displayed in sickening detail on our TV screens each evening. Not that our response matters much in the presidential campaign. The real problem for Biden and his precious bundle in the wheelbarrow is the

college-educated young voters who strongly supported him in the last bout with Trump.

Unlike Biden, they refuse to tolerate the Israeli extremists who condone the bombing of hospitals, schools and refuges sheltering the Gaza civilians and their children.

This doesn’t mean they will vote for Trump; it’s enough that they stay at home or choose a third-party outlier to put the Republican nominee-inwaiting over the top.

They are not alone in their

withdrawal of support for the ageing Biden. The same trend is operating among blacks and Latinos, despite America’s healthy economy and its “soft landing” from the covid pandemic inflation bump. Most notably, David Axelrod, the architect of President Obama’s two successful campaigns, has publicly pleaded with Biden to pass the presidential baton to a younger Democrat or face an ignominious defeat.

Biden is unmoved. He’d been running for the presidential prize since the 1987 campaign; and was not about to sacrifice a single minute of his time at the top.

The consequences for Australia

are not confined to our much-touted security relationship with the US. There is a growing gap at the apex of the Labor government towards the Chinese “threat” to stability in the region. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong are diplomats by nature. Their mantra of co-operating where we can, disagreeing where we must and engaging in the national interest is a long-term pathway to peace.

By contrast, Defence Minister Richard Marles (whose insistence on the courtesy title of Deputy Prime Minister would be comical were it not so ominous) has swallowed the Pentagon perception whole.

That’s where Donald Trump caucuses with the group he calls “my generals” to confront China with his military might. So Australia’s political stability might well be squeezed in a corner of that wheelbarrow, too. robert@ robertmacklin.com

CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 11

OPINION / the presumption of guilt

Presumption of innocence is dead and buried Legal affairs writer and former barrister HUGH SELBY says the presumption of innocence is dead and buried. It has been inverted. It is now a presumption of guilt unless and until a court finds the accused ‘not guilty’.

WRITING about the recent public humiliation of a now former local Green politician (CN November 23), one-time chief minister Jon Stanhope made an important point.

He noted: “The response of the ACT government to the recent allegations concerning a member of the Assembly, including strident demands that he resign, lacked any semblance of a commitment to that person’s right to the presumption of innocence.”

I have sad news for Jon: in alleged “sexual matters”, the presumption of innocence is dead and buried. It has been inverted. It is now a presumption of guilt unless and until a court finds the accused “not guilty”.

I am writing here about everyday attitudes, not the concept carefully repeated – albeit with unknown effect – by every judicial officer conducting a criminal matter.

At trial its effect is unknown because “every person” has been guided away from the wise advice. “do not rush to judgement”.

Now we are repeatedly force fed a diet of “acceptable beliefs” about sexual assault allegations that starts with equating a complainant with a victim, labels those accused of “sexual misconduct” as vile predators, and condones pre-trial media coverage that is unbalanced and looks for salaciousness ahead of accuracy.

The presumption of innocence is important in every criminal matter because it takes account of the possibilities of mistake, vindictiveness, publicity seeking, poor investigation and the inequality of resources between a defendant and the prosecution.

An aspect of the presumption disappeared in Queensland with the recent abolition of their sensible law that prevented the naming of a defendant in serious matters unless and until s/ he was committed for trial.

The change was motivated by a desire to name and shame one man: Bruce Lehrmann. Mainstream media was so pleased. At last they could catch up with social media that had bandied his name around for months.

Nobody considered the possibility of human frailty in decisions to prosecute, as seen in the DPP pursuit of Mr Lehrmann here in the ACT. But the naming and shaming is just the start of the procession of societal injustice and the inequality of the treatment meted out to defendants and self-proclaimed victims.

Consider the reports of Ms Higgins’ financial and appointment good fortune since she made her allegations.

Contrast that with the reports of the taint upon Mr Lehrmann once the allegations became public in February 2021 (about 10 days short of two years after the alleged sexual assault).

Nobody pays any attention to the toll upon those wrongly accused who must wait months, even a couple of years, to have their case heard.

It was heartening to see after the recent not guilty decisions in the ACT Magistrates Court for the two NRL stars that one of them commented publicly upon the stress he had endured while waiting months for his hearing. Rather more attention should be paid to those comments.

In his evidence-in-chief in the defamation proceedings being heard in Sydney, Mr Lehrmann told of his “being suicidal” after the allegations against him were publicised in February 2021 and that he became an inpatient in a mental health facility.

The two footballers were not charged

with “sexual assault” offences. Had they been then they would likely have been sidelined for the season. If the presumption of innocence was alive that would not happen.

An apprentice was charged with sexual assault offences. He had no criminal record. He lost his job immediately. The complainant selectively deleted her mobile phone records to support her fabrications. He was acquitted but lost two years of his life.

A doctor is awaiting trial interstate on sexual assault allegations made by his ex-partner. The relevant professional body has placed severe restrictions on his ability to practice, which are unrelated to the charges.

After waiting a year for his trial he was told that the trial dates had been cancelled and it would be another year. He cannot get access to his child, his reputation is in tatters and his work opportunities are slight compared to what they were before he was charged.

In Tasmania, a Supreme Court justice has been sidelined, save for writing judgments, because of allegations that appear to be family violence related.

Why is he not hearing cases – save for those with a family violence element – until this matter is finalised?

Answer: the presumption of guilt.

The same errant presumption was applied to our now former

Greens member of our Assembly. It wasn’t enough that the other party to a sexual liaison stated that it was consensual. There was the unsupported inference that something was amiss. He had to go and he’s gone. No charges laid. Yet again, a presumption of guilt.

Here in the ACT we have a Victims of Crime office, dedicated to supporting complainants (who are not yet proven victims) through the process of investigation and trial. Suffice to say that defendants – despite the presumption of innocence – have no comparable resource.

We have a Bail Act so that judicial officers can impose the minimum, necessary conditions upon a defendant who has been charged until the case is heard in court.

We don’t need extrajudicial sanctions.

But we have them, alleged wellmeaning acts of protection of others, that are in truth based upon an assumption of guilt and a fear of not being seen and heard to be a follower of “current proper thinking”.

I fear it is too late to turn the tide.

No one wants to be seen as “contrary”.

Hugh Selby is a former barrister and his free podcasts on “Witness Essentials” and “Advocacy in court: preparation and performance” can be heard on the best known podcast sites.

Concerned about how you were treated?

The ACT Human Rights Commission can help resolve complaints about: • health services/practitioners • discrimination/vilification • sexual harassment • disability services • services for children • retirement villages, elder abuse & more

Confidential. Accessible.

Free. Get in touch.

(02) 6205 2222

12 CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023

citynews.com.au

FEATURE / Our beautiful territory

Half a century on, Tempo Theatre isn’t slowing In the first of an occasional series reminding us why Canbera’s the most beautiful place to live, NOEL BEDDOE gets a fond insight into some of the backstage antics of the 50-year-old Tempo Theatre group.

THE seating arrangement has more in common with a Balinese roosterfighting pit than a plush theatrical setting; the bar is a collapsible table with a few bottles and cans on it : their audiences don’t care – Tempo Theatre has been drawing crowds, entertaining Canberrans for 50 years.

The first Tempo production was “Bye Bye Birdie” in April 1974. Since then the group has presented 116 productions.

Musicals featured early – “Camelot” and “The Pyjama Game” in 1975, “Oliver”, “Man of La Mancha”, “Gypsy” and “Grease” all in 1980.

The group took on “Hair” in 1977.

Readers may recall that the Harry M Miller production of that play completed act one with the entire cast naked and full frontal. I wonder how Tempo handled that challenge.

Obviously the approach found favour: they repeated the effort in 1981.

Current group president Jon Elphick joined as an actor in “Murder at the Music Hall” in 1997.

Secretary Marian FitzGerald had acted in England before relocating to Australia: “I joined Tempo to act.

I moved into administration at an annual general meeting when we had positions vacant,” she said.

Tempo presented Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” in 2011, 12 years before the Robyn Nevin version came to town.

“We had all the musical effects recorded – you’ll remember that there’s a piano theme and some whistling that are central to the development of the plot,” says Jon. “And just before the end of act one we lost all sound. What to do?

Send the audience home? Someone remembered that there was a piano up the back of the theatre.

“A couple of us rushed out, hefted it, brought it backstage. Marian was the only one who could play the piano.

She had to rush off stage, hit the theme, rush back on.

“We found someone who could whistle and he had to perform in public for the first time. Must have gotten away with it – after the show no-one so much as mentioned the problems.”

Frequent cast member Cheryl

The cast and crew of Tempo Theatre’s recent production “Book of the Month”.

Browne’s roles have included Mrs Danvers in “Rebecca”. There were challenges.

“My big scene had me come to the top of this sweeping staircase, hold a pose and descend looking haughty and in command and menacing. Well, we had this lovely staircase on stage.

Nothing so grand backstage.

“To get to the top of the stairs for my entrance I had to struggle up this very high, somewhat flimsy ladder.

By the time I got ‘on’ I was so out of breath and so anxious I would sometimes wonder how I’d say the first line, never mind make it sound threatening.

“It’s always a bit sad when a production winds up; for that one I can’t say I regretted losing contact with that ladder.”

Cast member Garry Robinson is nothing if not versatile; in last year’s “Murder on the Nile” he appeared firstly as the Egyptian bead seller, next as the boat’s captain and then as the chief of police. By the third entrance he was greeted with hoots of delighted audience laughter, which distraction he accepted like a professional.

“Once a cast member turned up without the appropriate costume trousers,” Jon said.

“Garry had a spare pair because of his various roles. He lent them but they didn’t really fit ; I was in a lather of anxiety waiting for the curtain call, which featured everyone holding hands and lifting their arms above their heads in unison. That night, I was certain that at that moment this bloke’s trousers were going to fall down.”

They didn’t. Pity. What a moment of theatre that would have been.

What does the future hold for Tempo?

Jon: “We’re in pretty good shape.

Production costs continue to rise but we’ve built up an enthusiastic and loyal following over the years.

“We’re not-for-profit in as much as no-one takes a salary but we’ve built up a handy bank balance. I see no reason that we can’t continue indefinitely.”

A development in recent years has been the creation and recording of a radio play, broadcast over station IRPH on Christmas Day. This year it’s called “Mr Shakespeare” and it was written in house by Michael Weston and Jo Jones.

Garry is in the performance; the production was recorded in October. I can imagine that spending some time with people from Tempo would add to the Christmas of someone spending the day alone.

Talented, committed theatre folk have been serving our territory through the Tempo Theatre group for half a century. We have been lucky to have them.

Canberra author Noel Beddoe’s writing has been published in “The Australian” and “The Sydney Morning Herald”. Three of his novels have been nominated for the Miles Franklin Literary Award.

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LETTERS

Let loose to: editor@citynews.com.au

A look at the CIT’s ‘thinking’ millions is looming THE ACT Integrity Commission recently indicated that early findings on the Canberra Institute of Technology’s long engagement of an ambitious “complexity and systems thinking” proponent will be available soon.

Hopefully, this and other investigations that are also underway will reveal the quality of tuition and advice that was delivered to all targeted staff, the extent of follow-up implementation, plus assess how well the project was monitored and evaluated over time for both expected and unintended on-the-ground results.

With luck, investigators might have sought highly independent expert advice to assist analysis of the value of the training content that CIT foisted on its staff.

If systems thinking is about trying to define an ideal future or culture, how far did CIT move down the path of the complexity thinking component, about what was needed to move from “the now” into the future, even if what was ideal may never have been realisable?

And what is left now of this expensive project at CIT, besides possibly many cynical staff, a still-damaged reputation and a nonoperational full-time CEO who has been on paid leave for almost 18 months?

Hopefully, the ACT Skills Minister, CIT and the investigations will soon provide clear answers about the project’s objectives and outcomes, because ratepayers and the broader public require far better perspectives on the millions CIT was willing to allocate and spend on this organisational thinking and executive-mentoring venture.

Some enlightenment about the extent to which snake-oil was an embedded project ingredient would be welcome, too.

Sue Dyer, Downer

ABC allegedly biased and out of touch THE ABC is publicly being questioned about its alleged impartiality, and in the past 18 months both the ABC radio listeners and ABC TV viewers have reportedly been declining at an alarming rate.

In a recent defamation trial between former commando Heston Russel and the ABC, it was criticised for its “shoddy and

dose of dorin

Zero and a Resilient Future”, takes a positive view and provides guidance for the industry on the role it can play in the decarbonisation of the Australian economy.

The way forward is clear. We just need to get on with it.

Ray Peck, Hawthorn, Victoria

Never mind the Liberals, Sue

uncorroborated” reporting, resulting in Russel being awarded $390,000 in damages, one of many such cases lost to date costing the taxpayers millions in damages.

Maybe it’s time for the ABC to keep its “loose cannon” investigative reporters under close supervision and save taxpayers millions.

The public is now justifiably criticising the ABC for having an allegedly biased, out-of-touch and unrepresentative attitude at taxpayers’ expense to the tune of $1.1 billion a year.

In view of the above, one would have thought managing director David Anderson would have a lot to answer for. Instead, he was recently awarded a six-figure salary increase, augmenting his annual remuneration to $1.156 million!

Mario Stivala, Belconnen

First Australians ‘socially shackled’ IAN Pilsner (Letters, CN October 15) says it’s ironic to refer to indigenous Australians being “figuratively shackled”. It sure is.

There are hundreds of early photographs showing indigenous people quite literally shackled together (and their captions seldom reveal the consequences).

Yet Ian regurgitates the old line about how “they” failed to emulate and adopt the industrial and social progress brought by Europeans.

He doesn’t mention, however, that our First Australians were also socially and

intellectually shackled by the new arrivals who accepted Sir Joseph Banks’ and others oft-stated opinion that the natives weren’t worth bothering about.

He misses, or ignores, the obvious – that no half-thoughtful person disputes the benefits brought about by centuries of European development.

The problem is, the other part of our story keeps being denied; that for the vast majority of First Australians those benefits didn’t flow nearly so readily and arguably still don’t. And it’s not due to any inherent failings on their part.

Eric Hunter, Cook

Way forward is clear, get on with it!

ROBERT Macklin’s column on the history of insurance was a good read (“Climate change will cook the insurance industry”, CN November 16). However, his conclusion, that the insurance industry cannot be saved from the “ravages of climate change” is pessimistic and smacks of “doomism”.

Climate denial is no longer scientifically tenable, so another strategy is to argue that nothing can be done about climate change, and climate action is meaningless.

While climate change is arguably the biggest problem facing humanity, it can be combatted by replacing fossil fuels with renewables.

The Insurance Council of Australia’s Climate Change roadmap, “Towards Net

IRONIC that Sue Dyer (Letters, CN November 15) wants the ACT Liberal Party to be much more honest and transparent.

Has she not seen how the ACT Labor Party and their “puppets”, the Greens, have been anything but transparent and truthful in their dealings with local issues.

The $5 million CIT stitch up, the “takeover” of Calvary hospital, the loss of our AAA credit rating, the destruction of green space in Canberra, the continued push from Chief Minister Andrew Barr to inflict his style of living on everyday Canberrans, the list goes on.

Ian Pilsner, Weston

The word’s in the dictionary JANINE Haskins (Letters, CN November 23) says she’s offended by my use of the term “druggie” in my letter (CN November 16).

I am sorry she lost her daughter to drugs, but the term “druggie” is in the “Oxford Dictionary” and defined as: “A drug addict or habitual user of drugs”.

I have met many people on drugs and one I worked with in the public service told me it was because he was a “druggie” in his youth that he would never have job prospects, because the drugs had destroyed his brain.

He was a lovely intelligent man who openly told people he had been a “druggie”.

Vi Evans, via email

‘No measurable effect’ on global warming THE story “Cheap EV named Car of the Year” (CN, November 23) would be good news for the makers and marketers of electric vehicles.

Many people who want to see more action on reducing emissions to fight climate change probably also regard it as good news. If only the latter were true.

A team of scientists, including climate and IT experts, and leading technicians at

the highly regarded Massachusetts Institute of Technology has developed a complex and sophisticated, but very powerful, climate change modelling program that handles input of numerous variables ranging from fuel types, proportion of renewable energy; proportion of green space relative to paved areas and buildings; thermal efficiency of buildings, especially apartment blocks; and the proportion of electric vehicles (EVs) to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

The modelling consistently produces two very pertinent results. Reducing the use of fossil fuels, beginning with coal, is easily the most effective means of reducing global heating; but the proportion of EVs to ICE vehicles has no measurable effect on global warming.

However, the news is not all bad: EVs in the urban environment are very effective in reducing the volume of health-threatening pollutants in the atmosphere, especially those from diesel-powered vehicles.

EVs have an important role to play in the world’s cities, perhaps no more so than in “car-addicted” Australia (and Canberra?).

Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin

One weekend ranger for North Canberra IT was a very compelling letter (CN November 23) from Rebecca Marks on wildlife road kill.

I was compelled to kill off my first kangaroo on a country road in my late teens.

A few since (and a cat). One (off Antill Street) being a fatally injured ‘roo being terrified by an off-lead dog.

Another was on the Monaro Highway at night. A huge buck was hit by the car in front of me. Like Ms Marks, I had to stop. Its left eye, looking straight at me, as I delivered the death blow.

The presence of kangaroos is a wrenching risk when travelling on our country and suburban roads and prisoners of conscience never forget the necessity of perversely delivering compassionate release from the pain of a terrible, slow death.

I did wait one afternoon for the ranger to attend and finish off a kangaroo caught in a fence (Mt Majura). Never again will I wait. He was too long getting there.

Our lousy Labor government had one ranger rostered on for the entire north Canberra on a weekend.

Christopher Ryan, Watson

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CAPITAL REGION COMMUNITY SERVICES

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‘The four CRCS services offer small, intimate settings that allow for a holistic approach to education and care for your child’

Warm and welcoming early childhood centres CAPITAL Region Community Services (CRCS), a non-profit organisation providing programs and services to communities, offers four early childhood services across Bruce and Belconnen.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, we are all about community, and our warm and welcoming educators embed that within our early childhood centres,” said executive manager Strategy and Impact Heidi Prowse.

“We provide value-for-money education and care for your child.

“We also understand the demands of modern family life. Our centres offer flexible part-time and full-time programs and extended care options to suit your schedule.”

She said CRCS early childhood education and care services were located in the Belconnen Community Centre, Westfield Belconnen, the CIT Bruce campus and the grounds of North Canberra Hospital.

“Our centre at Westfield Belconnen, Belconnen Early Childhood Centre, can also provide casual care for already enrolled

citynews.com.au

“Our centres offer flexible part-time and full-time programs and extended care options to suit your schedule,” says Heidi Prowse. families while they are shopping, which is perfect for parents and carers who want to get those last Christmas presents in peace,” said Heidi.

“The four CRCS services offer small, intimate settings that allow for a holistic approach to education and care for your child.

“In addition to the academic curriculum, CRCS’ trained educators nurture their social and emotional growth, creativity and physical well-being, to help children become confident, well-rounded individuals.”

The directors and their teams of qualified educators come from varied backgrounds and embed multiculturalism and respect

for diversity into the curriculum, along with a strong focus on community and sustainability.

“At CRCS, we are proud that two of our four services have been assessed as exceeding the National Quality Framework Standards, a recognition held by under a third of education and care services across

Australia,” Heidi said.

“We currently have availability in our services, so we encourage parents and carers to book a tour and meet our team.”

Capital Region Community Services, Belconnen Community Centre, 23 Swanson Court, Belconnen. Call 6264 0200 or visit crcs.com.au

CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 15

ALL ABOUT SENIORS

Unlock secrets to ageless health and happiness From looking after their health to getting their affairs in order, these Canberra businesses know the importance of helping seniors.

Whether it’s exercising or socialising, painting or learning, this week “CityNews” speaks to Canberra businesses that celebrate seniors.

Celebrate your loved ones this Christmas TOBIN Brothers and White Lady Funerals want to help memorialise your loved ones this Christmas with a candlelight service, says Carolyn Jamieson, Tobin Brothers location supervisor.

The service is at the Contemporary Chapel, Nettlefold Street, Belconnen, from 6pm on December 7, but intending attendees are asked to RSVP by Friday December 1, she says.

“We would like to start a tradition in the ACT for families who think that perhaps Christmas isn’t as happy as it is for other people because they’ve lost someone,” says Carolyn.

“It’s like a tribe of like-minded people being together on one night, where they can feel sad, or happy, however they feel, but they’re around other people feeling the same things.

“We will have a celebrant to lead us through the service, we will have some music.

“People will get to hang their thoughts on a Christmas tree, or fill in a card to their loved one.

“Not just Tobin families are invited. We open it up to everyone that has gone through loss, not just this year, in past years, too.

“Families and children from everywhere are invited.

“Anyone from anywhere, even if we have not helped them in a funeral service and they would just like to come and be with other people at this time of year.

“We want people to feel supported and not alone.”

Tobin Brothers Funerals, 101 Nettlefold Street, Belconnen, or 310 Anketell Street, Tuggeranong. Call 6295 2799, or visit tobinscanberrafunerals.com.au

Tobin Brothers Funerals dedicated location supervisor, Carolyn Jamieson.

Certified cleaners produce satisfying results ACT Carpet & Floor Cleaners offer three main lines of cleaning – carpet cleaning, tile and grout cleaning and flood restoration – says certified technician Frank Bartorilla.

“We are certified for all three of those areas, and there’s not many in Canberra that are actually certified.

Doing the job well and making sure you’re satisfied is our number one priority” he says.

“We do work with quite a few retirement villages, covering the important hygiene standards and providing a respectful service.”

Frank says he’s been doing this work for six and a half years.

“ACT Carpet & Floor Cleaners is a five-star rated, locally owned and operated business,” he says.

Frank says ACT Carpet & Floor Cleaners give out a bottle of stain remover and free top ups with every job.

“And for carpet cleaning, people can go online and get an instant quote. They don’t have to ring us up or anything, they just punch in the number of bedrooms in the house, put the living room in, the hallways

and the stairs and we’ll give them a quote, and it’s pretty accurate.

Customers can take advantage of our fast bookings online,” he says.

ACT Carpet & Floor Cleaners, call 0438 449999, or visit actcarpetcleaners.com

You are invited to our

Christmas candlelight service White Lady Funerals warmly invite you to our Christmas Memorial Service to remember those we have lost and offer comfort and support to those who are grieving.

Thursday, 7 December at 6pm Tobin Brothers & White Lady Funerals, Contemporary Chapel 101 Nettlefold Street, Belconnen RSVP by Friday, 1 December to carolyn. jamieson@invocare.com.au Light refreshments will be served.

16 CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023

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A DEXA or bone mineral densitometry report.

Addressing risk factors for osteoporosis OSTEOPOROSIS is common in Australia, says ACT regional manager Lauren Venables.

“According to Healthy Bones Australia (formerly Osteoporosis Australia) both women and men can be affected, with up to 25 per cent of cases in men,” she says.

“People 50 years and over are mostly at risk; however, osteoporosis can occur in younger people, depending on risk factors.

“Osteoporosis occurs when bones lose minerals, such as calcium, more quickly than the body can replace them, causing a loss of bone thickness (bone density or mass).”

Lauren says if you suffer from osteoporosis a sudden movement, minor fall, bump or even a sneeze could result in a broken bone.

“You should discuss your risk factors for osteoporosis with your GP,” she says.

“Osteoporosis is diagnosed with a DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) scan, often referred to as a BMD or bone mineral density scan, a simple scan of your hip and spine, completely painless, takes about 20 minutes.

“I-MED Radiology offers DEXA bone scanning as part of the comprehensive service offering at the Woden and Belconnen clinics. A referral from a GP is necessary.”

I-Med Radiology. 40 Cameron Avenue, Belconnen, call 6109 6900. 90 Corinna Street, Woden, call 6214 2222.

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Osteoporosis is common, affecting both women and men. People 50 years and overs should discuss their risk factors with their GP. Osteoporosis can be diagnosed and monitored by means of a DEXA or Bone Mineral Densitometry scan. A referral from your GP is required.

Locations for the I-MED DEXA or Bone Mineral Densitometry services:

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Woden Specialist Medical Centre Ground Floor, 90 Corinna St P: 02 6214 2222

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CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 17

ALL ABOUT SENIORS

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Exercise options to suit all abilities NO matter what type of chronic pain condition people may have, Arthritis ACT can offer support, says CEO Rebecca Davey.

“It’s important to remain active at all ages, and particularly as we age, we need to ensure we maintain our balance and strength”, she says.

“Our strength and balance classes run across Canberra and are a great introduction to people who maybe haven’t exercised intentionally in many years.

“For something different, for those that don’t like structured classes, we offer Nordic Walking instruction. We’re teaching people how to walk with poles, which is a great, low-impact aerobic activity for everyone.”

Rebecca says it’s also important to build strength in different areas of the body.

“We now run Pilates from both of our locations, Pearce and Bruce,” and, as an added benefit for Arthritis ACT members, “we have free, online exercise classes every week from Tuesday to Thursday.”

She says Arthritis ACT also offers services such as exercise physiology, disability support and meal planning to help people in managing their pain.

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

“No task or question is too big or small for us.”

Arthritis ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce.

Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au

Yamuna Karki, left and Prakash Bhattari with baby.

Cultivating a sense of wellbeing

Arthritis ACT CEO Rebecca Davey.

DTC Care stands for “Dignity, Trust and Compassion”, says director Prakash Bhattarai, which is what he strives to achieve.

“I, along with my wife Yamuna Karki, who is an integral part of our organisation, extend our roots from the breathtaking landscapes of Nepal, the land of Mount Everest.

DTC Care runs free meditation classes on Sundays at Axis Youth Centre in Queanbeyan, 5pm to 7pm, says Prakash.

Meditation helps keep your mind occupied and in peace, which can be beneficial for seniors, says Prakash.

“Seniors can often feel lonely and this will help them feel they are not alone and to feel more connected to nature and to the universe itself,” he says.

“In Nepal, and I think it is the same in Australia,

seniors have a lot of loneliness and trust issues, they cannot find the best support or the best person that they can really rely on.

“They cannot live their life with dignity, they have to do what other people say due to their age.

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“We listen to them and what they want and how they want to live their life.

“Our commitment is unwavering. We understand the significance of a holistic approach to care.”

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18 CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023

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• Making friends • Skills development in the community • Dog walking • Help with driving

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MEET OUR PAIN MANAGEMENT EXPERTS Linda Clee – Physiotherapist

Blake Dean – Exercise Physiologist

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.

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.

Sophie Bullock – Exercise Physiologist

Jacqui Couldrick – Physiotherapist

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.

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.

Emil Terbio – Exercise Physiotherapist

Holly Hazelwood – Exercise Physiologist

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.

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.

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ALL ABOUT SENIORS

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Financial advice for seniors SINCE 2014, DW Private Wealth has been assisting seniors with comprehensive financial planning advice, says principal and financial adviser, Steve Wang.

“I have been in the business of financial advising since 2005, nearly two decades,” he says.

“I started as a tax accountant and worked for a Big Four and Global Bank for over a decade.

“I felt the financial advice industry was too transactional and lacked a personal touch and care for customers.

“This is why I started my own business, to provide consistent and high-quality advice to my clients.”

Steve says that DW Private Wealth stands out for its non-transactional relationship with customers.

“We are a non-institutional based, fee-for-service business,” he says.

“A lot of people say that in Canberra, but we’re a business that really provides a lot more of a personal touch than bigger businesses.

“We’re a bit more boutique in that sense and we’re more family orientated.

“We have multi-generational clients.”

Steve says that the company specialises in retirement planning and investment.

“We do comprehensive financial planning including asset finance advising and residential planning, but we also have long-lasting relationships with legal firms, accounting firms, property services companies and so forth.

“This gives us a unique offering on the marketplace because we can do everything for our clients.”

Steve says DW Wealth is made up of a highly qualified team that will always focus on maintaining that personal touch.

DW Private Wealth, Unit 6-8/Level 1, 45 Novar Street, Yarralumla ACT 2600. Call 6154 6150 or visit dwprivatewealth.com.au

Diabetes NSW ACT operations manager Natalie Smith.

The importance of getting screened for diabetes

DW Private Wealth principal and financial adviser, Steve Wang.

DIABETES Australia operations manager NSW ACT Natalie Smith says that as people get older their risks of diabetes also increase.

“Unfortunately, as we get older the pancreas produces less insulin meaning there’s a higher risk, especially for type 2 diabetes,” she says.

“That’s why it’s so important for us to continue raising awareness, for people to have a conversation with their GP or health-care provider and get screened every year.”

Natalie says that the earlier diabetes is detected, the faster treatment and lifestyle changes can begin to stop or delay complications such as heart disease and amputations.

“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, too.”

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.

It’s just one of the many services the organisation offers to help people living with the condition.

“If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, don’t panic, come and talk with us,” says Natalie.

Diabetes Australia. Call 1800 177055, or visit diabetesaustralia.com.au

Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic condition in Australia Take charge of your health and talk to your GP about being tested, or complete a risk assessment

Need support?

Diabetes Australia is here to help.

Call us on 1800 177 055 or 02 6248 4500 for more information or visit diabetesaustralia.com.au 20 CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023

citynews.com.au

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Steve Wang has been our financial adviser for about 10 years. He has guided us moving from the work force into retirement and we have been happy with the service he has provided. We have always found him to be helpful and friendly and happy to explain situations that we do not totally understand. We are happy to recommend Steve to anyone who requires financial advice.

”

- B.W and T.W - re Financial Planning Holt , ACT

Take the first step in planning for your financial future, book a consult today dwprivatewealth.com.au info@dwprivatewealth.com.au | (02) 6154 6150 Level 1, Unit 6-8/45 Novar Street, Yarralumla

ALL ABOUT SENIORS Law team helping seniors FROM buying and selling properties to new relationships, separations and general family law advice, seniors can face the same legal situations as younger people, says KJB Law’s estate planning special counsel Kerstin Glomb.

“While my area of expertise is estate planning, wills and enduring powers of attorney, as well as superannuation, [which includes] ensuring the proper nominations go where it should, there are many occasions where the legalities of a situation applies to any age,” says Kerstin, who is also a notary public.

Kerstin says KJB Law looks after people’s affairs, including grant of probate, wills and family trusts, too.

KJB Law says it has invested in specialised

Dr William Vass.

solicitors and staff to practice across a range of areas including estate planning, family law, conveyancing and commercial law to ensure that it’s always able to provide prompt attention and high-quality legal services.

Its principals, Andrew Freer, Des Moore and Jo Twible, say they present the human side of the legal profession making the law more approachable and easier to understand.

And, Jo Twible has expertise in retirement village contracts, including aged-care entry and exit, and inter-family transfers.

KJB Law, ground floor, 10 Corinna Street, Woden.

Call 6281 0999 or visit kjblaw.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

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

be genetically exposed to 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 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.

KJB Law principal Jo Twible.

Free second opinion on your hearing • Over 20 years of service to the Canberra region • His clinical experience and knowledge make him uniquely qualified to advise you regarding solutions to your hearing problem

Book an appointment today, phone: 6282 2717 Dr William Vass Suite14, John James Medical Centre, 175 Strickland Crescent, Deakin Phone: 02 6282 2717 • Email: williamvass@bigpond.com • Website: drvasshearing.com.au 22 CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023

citynews.com.au

advertising feature

Simplify your move into village life Retirement village contracts are often difficult to navigate. Jo Twible will simplify the process, explaining the details of your contract, to help you with a smooth transition.

Jo Twible’s services include:

Retirement village offers convenience ADRIA Care combines access to important facilities with a feel of privacy, making it the perfect place for retirement, a spokesman for the village says.

“There’s close access to Cooleman Court and Woden Westfield, but we are surrounded by reserves and parklands making it a very peaceful atmosphere for residents,” he says.

Located in the heart of Weston Creek, Adria Care, which has two dedicated respite rooms and a special care unit, offers residential care for 42 residents. The village also contains 36 independent living units.

It offers residents a wide range of things to do, and that they can get involved as little or as much as they’d like.

“We have an active residents’ committee who organise lots of get-togethers. Residents can play cards, go to morning teas and happy hours, enjoy exercise, and much more,” he says.

Established in 1994 by volunteers of the Croatian community of Canberra and Queanbeyan, the village is home to a multicultural group of people.

“We have residents [from] Australia, Croatia, China, France, Macedonia, Hungary and more,” he says.

“There are great residents and great staff committed to the best outcomes for the community.”

Adria Care, 89 Fremantle Drive, Stirling.

Call 6288 0198, or visit adria.org.au

• Retirement village entry & exit • Aged care entry • Residential & Commercial Conveyancing • Commercial Leasing • Sale and purchase of businesses

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INDIVIDUAL LIVING VILLAS & RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE ROOMS AVAILABLE • Nursing Care • Personal Care • Independence • Safe home-life environment • Multicultural • Friendly • Family orientated • Quality in-house kitchen • Variety of quality activities Set amongst landscaped grounds, Adria Care in Stirling is a warm and welcoming community of people from all around the world. We pride ourselves on cultural diversity and celebration, and offer a wide range of activities to cater for all interests. We provide care for Croatian and all other nationalities.

Adria Care fosters individuality and independence, providing support and assistance to enable residents to live in a comfortable and secure environment. It offers residential care for 42 residents, incorporating 2 respite rooms and special care. All rooms are single rooms with ensuite.

The village also contains 36 independent living villas. All villas have 2 bedrooms, a courtyard and a garden, and residents enjoy a peaceful and welcoming community lifestyle.

Our aim is to provide a caring, safe, home-like atmosphere, reflecting your rights to dignity, respect, privacy, safety and the best quality of life.

Contact our friendly staff today to arrange a personal tour.

Email: admin@adria.org.au Address: 89 Fremantle Drive, Stirling, ACT citynews.com.au

For vacancy enquiries & tours phone: 1800 023 742 1800 0(ADRIA) CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 23

ALL ABOUT SENIORS

Finding help as an older citizen when you need it can be hard.

Seniors meet preschoolers for ‘meaningful interactions’ NORTHSIDE Community Service is a not-for-profit, community-based organisation that has been supporting the community in North Canberra – and beyond since 1976, says manager Kate Malone.

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

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

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

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

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

“This program has already proved an invaluable

Care Finder

Call (02) 6171 8088 to see if you are eligible for this free service.

one here at Northside, and we are very excited to continue watching the countless positive outcomes unfold.”

Northside Community Service, 2 Rosevear Place, Dickson.

Call 6171 8000, or visit northside.asn.au

Making access to eyewear easy

Are you helping someone who is elderly?

Need support ? A break ? Advice ?

Call us ..... we care for carers 1800 052 222 I www.carersact.org.au

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 after-hours 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 sameday 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

Curtin Optical owner Corey Nicholls. 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

Information for Bean residents who are retired or retiring soon I have recently updated the Bean Seniors Guide for people living in Canberra’s South — Molonglo Valley, Tuggeranong, Weston Creek, Woden and Tharwa.

It is a booklet with information about financial and other support, concession cards, health, aged care, transport, community, legals affairs, scams and more.

Go online or contact my office to request a free copy.

davidsmith.org.au/retirees 6293 1344

David SMITH MP

david.smith.mp@aph.gov.au

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24 CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023

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INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Keeping it local

Spectacles Prescription sunglasses Contact Lenses & Solutions Eye testing Spectacle suppliers to: The department of Veteran’s Affairs & ACT Spectacle Scheme Capon and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators director Ken Hubert with wife Rhonda.

The importance of an up-to-date will CAPON and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators helps clients wishing to update their will, says director Ken Hubert.

“This will often mean completing an enduring power of attorney as well as a will,” he says.

“If people don’t have a will, it means their possessions are instead distributed by the rules of intestacy.

“This distribution means that your spouse, family member or friend will have to apply to the court to be appointed administrator before they can handle your estate.

“This can be costly and time-consuming.

“Completing an enduring power of attorney to address later-in-life challenges, as well as a will, assists loved ones to care for you in the manner you wish when

the time comes.”

Ken says Capon and Hubert have been helping people with their legal matters for more than 35 years and can also help seniors with a range of legal issues in areas such as family law, children’s matters, conveyancing, and power of attorney.

“Our team is focused on giving honest and expert advice at all times,” says Ken. “Our staff are experienced in their fields and we take pride in knowing that they will always use common sense, respect, courtesy and good judgement.”

Capon and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators, first floor, 32-38 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 6152 9203 or visit chsol.com.au

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CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 25

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Peruvian lily… despite its name, it comes from the western Mediterranean region.

Photos: Jackie Warburton

Spring bulbs still need attention MULCHING and watering are important to keeping gardens alive through the hot summer months.

Now that most of the spring bulbs have died down, their leaves can be removed and placed into the compost.

Don’t feed spring bulbs as they are dormant and the fertiliser will be wasted. Only ever fertilise them when they’re growing.

Placing mulch over the dormant bulbs will protect them over summer. New leaf growth will begin late summer to early autumn ready for the next season.

If a clump of bulbs last season weren’t flowering as well as they used to, now’s a good time to divide and replant to get them growing strong again.

One of my favourite spring bulbs flowering now is Peruvian lily (Scilla peruviana). Despite its common name, this plant comes from the western Mediterranean region.

Scillas have spectacular cobalt-blue, star-shaped flowers that grow to about 30cm above the dark-green, strappy leaves. Scillas are also available in white flowering and are

just as striking.

After flowering, the bulb goes dormant through the warmer months until autumn.

With plenty of sunlight and warm, dry summers, it can be a fast grower. For a large garden it’s a good colour and filler plant where spring bulbs have finished and summer flowers haven’t started.

Now’s the deadline to get summer and autumn bulbs into the ground and growing before the summer heat starts.

Summer bulbs such as pineapple lilies, liliums, gladioli and naked ladies will start to put on new growth, meaning that’s the time to water and fertilise. Interestingly, many summer bulbs will flower before the foliage appears.

They’re generally bigger bulbs and don’t like to be buried deep, as spring bulbs do.

If you have bulbs that didn’t flower in spring, dig them up and identify them. If they’re spring bulbs, replant them at double the length of the bulb. The larger summer bulbs should be buried with their necks proud of the soil and planted in clumps for a mass display.

FLOWERING in the garden at the moment is a sweet little plant called Geum. Its ranges in colour from yellows to pinks and oranges to reds.

It flowers through summer and into the cooler weather of autumn.

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Geum… Flowers through summer and into the cooler weather of autumn.

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Although their foliage looks like geraniums, they are not related. They’re from the rose family and have a distinct flower arrangement like all plants from the Rosaceae family. They grow more like strawberry plants and can be a useful ground cover in no time.

They don’t like hot dry conditions, so a little bit of shade will prevent them from scorching.

They are rhizomatous plants and will grow into a nice little clump over time. The flowers are on long, wiry stems well above the plant.

There are new varieties out such as the low-maintenance “Flames of Passion” with ruby red flowers. It’s a fast-growing, compact plant.

Also look out for Geums “Petticoats Peach”, with its frilly petals that change from peach to pink to yellow.

Geums can be used to soften the edges of paths, walls or will grow successfully in a container or small garden space. jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au

Jottings…

• Trim evergreen shrubs while they’re growing fast.

• Keep plants growing stro ng to prevent pests and disease .

• Prune lilacs after flowerin g.

• Prune the last of the spr ing such as viburnums, May bushes and photinias.

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

INSIDE

No matter the price, it’s giving that’s important

COLIN STEELE

Bringing out life in Kngwarray’s awesome art

By Helen

MUSA IT is indisputable that Emily Kam Kngwarray is one of Australia’s greatest artists, as the coming exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia, which bears her name, will show.

So famous is “Emily” that many people simply call her that, and yet when I catch up with Kelli Cole, cocurator of the exhibition with Hetti Perkins, I find that calling such a significant figure by her “whitefella” name could be considered disrespectful. Her own people refer to her as “that old lady, Kam”.

Names are very important in her Anmatyerr culture. Emily was her whitefella name and Kngwarray her skin name, but Kam is the name she was given at birth, and it refers to the seeds of the daisy yam, delicious when ground and a source of life itself.

Another matter needed clarification. Cole and Perkins saw how much of the critical comment around Kngwarray’s art depicted her as a kind of abstract expressionist artist.

Here they turned to Kngwarray’s own community for confirmation that, in fact, she was drawing and painting not totems, but objects and animals quite literally related to her country, sometimes bringing the lines from women’s ceremonial face and body painting and the tiny dots that

A batik on silk work by Emily Kam Kngwarray. represent the yam seed into her art.

This exhibition is a dream come true for Cole who, when a teenager, through her uncle, the artist Robert Ambrose, met and watched Kngwarray and the women of Utopia, north-east of Alice Springs, as they created batik.

“I was always aware… that I was in the company of someone extraordinary… she was the epicentre of everything,” Cole says.

Of Central Australian Warumungu and Luritja ancestry, Cole has been 17 years at the NGA and has been involved in all the National Indigenous Art Triennials, including “Ceremony”, curated by Perkins. Together the two of them, who call each other “sis” and enjoy a good joke, convinced NGA director Nick Mitzevich of the necessity for them to spend time on Country.

…continues Page 28

Emily Kam Kngwarray… nearly 70 when she started with batik and began painting in her 80s, enjoying a short but brilliant career before her death at about 86 in 1996.

Photo: Toly Sawenko

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CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 27

STREAMING

Scorsese tests fans with a bladder-busting opus WHEN Martin Scorsese’s masterpiece “The Irishman” hit Netflix a few years ago it took me three separate sittings to get through.

Call it my Tik Tok attention span talking, but these days I’d wager most people would struggle to sit through three and a half hours of a film without wanting to take some form of a break.

Now the famed director has outdone himself with his most recent crime western “Killers of the Flower Moon”, which clocks in at an absolute bladder-testing 206 minutes.

It’s so long that some cinemas around the world have created a 15-minute “toilet break” interval, a move which has caught the ire of the film’s editor Thelma Schoonmaker, who called it a “violation” in an interview with “The Standard”.

“I understand that somebody’s running it with an intermission, which is not right,” she said.

There are rumours the film’s distributor is contacting cinema companies who are dropping in an intermission and enforcing them to screen it as intended, without the break.

As a film buff and Scorsese fanatic, my excitement is through the roof for “Killers of the Flower Moon”, but for the very first time I’ve decided I’d rather wait for it to come to streaming than go to the movies to see it.

The film’s distributor has cut a deal with Apple TV Plus, meaning it will eventually make its way to the platform some time next

From left, Lily Gladstone, Robert De Niro and Leonardo DiCaprio stars of Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon”. year, on which I – and I’m sure many others – will watch from the comfort of our own homes and be able to take a break whenever we so choose.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not against long run times, but being able to take that break, even if it’s just for a few minutes, often makes the experience an overall better one.

There’s nothing worse than watching a film at the cinema, realising you need the bathroom and then awkwardly trying to pick a moment to duck out. That ever frustrating

limbo of trying to pinpoint a dip in the film’s tension.

Is now the time to leave? Now? What about now? Okay, I’ll go now, only to rush back in two minutes later to find the main character dead as a doornail.

It’s not a rare experience.

Recently more and more websites and apps have been popping up dedicated to informing people when is the best time to take a break during a particularly long film in order to protect the storytelling. If you don’t

believe me, try googling “RunPee”.

There’s no way you can tell me this is the “intended experience” the film makers are looking for.

Scorsesse’s new movie isn’t the only one making headlines about its runtime at the moment.

Ridley Scott’s war epic “Napoleon”, which stars Joaquin Phoenix as the eponymous Emperor, is also currently screening in cinemas before it, too, eventually makes its way to Apple TV Plus.

Scott has been restrained into bringing the cinematic cut down to two and a half hours, but recently revealed an extended cut will run for more than four hours and will eventually be brought to Apple TV Plus.

I can’t wait to see “Napoleon” in all its bombastic brilliance at the cinema. If early reviews are anything to go by, it sounds like the four-hour cut will be well worth the time as well.

Streaming might just offer a solution to this rather frustrating problem with more and more directors using it as a means to realise their big cinematic ambitions.

From Zack Snyder’s four-hour cut of “Justice League” on Binge to Peter Jackson’s epic eight-hour Beatles doco “Get Back” on Disney Plus, the industry is evolving to give people more choice in how they watch their films.

If cinemas want to keep people coming through the doors they need to keep up.

Bringing out life in Emily’s art Continued from Page 27…

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Media Association dropped off 100 canvases to Utopia.

He returned later to find that Perkins now lives in Alice 81 paintings had been executed Springs, a good base for their on those canvases, all but one revelatory foray in March 2023, by women. when the women in Utopia The curved foyer part of were happy to look at the the NGA will feature all 81 of paintings and to identify the those paintings, which Sydney precise details of each. Luckily, dealer Chris Hodges sold to their partner in mounting the the Holmes à Court Collection substantial NGA catalogue, before they were exhibited at Jennifer Green, was fluent in the SH Ervin Gallery in Sydney. the language.

Right from the start, “Emily” Afterwards the ladies was identified as the outstandperformed a ceremony involving artist. This was no accident, ing five dancers who painted Cole says, as she had always themselves, and danced, with been the senior culture woman, Kngwarray’s recorded voice and was much older than some playing in the background. of the artists.

“The ladies could tell us the She was nearly 70 when she story, they knew the stories, started with batik and began they know the old lady’s paintpainting in her 80s, enjoying a ings and they know the living short but brilliant career before country – it’s theirs.”

Kngwarray’s “Anmatyerr people, Emu her death at about 86 in 1996.

The coming exhibition woman” (1988-89).

Janet Holmes à She met Paul Keating, was certainly features some of the Court Collection awarded an Australian Artist’s late Emily Kam Kngwarray’s Creative Fellowship, posthuconsider textiles to be craft, but we (the new, definitive spelling of the name) huge late paintings, but are arguing that through displaying mously represented Australia at the her textiles, we can show her future Venice Biennale in 1997. In 2017 her its focus is broader and focuses on 1994 painting “Earth’s Creation I” as an artist,” Cole says. the artist’s grounding in batik.

“She was a batik artist for longer was on-sold for $2.1 million.

The art form, which reached its But this is not an exhibition than she was a painter.” apogee in the courts of Java, had about fame and fortune; it is rather With this in mind, the early part been brought to Utopia as part of one where the women of Utopia of the main exhibition will feature a literacy program facilitated by have been consulted to identify magnificent swathes of batik art Jenny Green and others in the late exactly what Emily was painting – ‘70s and Kngwarray, with her friend on silk. her country.

Emily and her cohort took Gloria Petyarre, were part of the initial cohort who went on to found to batik like ducks to water, “Emily Kam Kngwarray,” National until between 1988 and 1989, the the Utopia Women’s Batik Group.

Gallery of Australia, December 2 flamboyant Rodney Gooch from “Painting is the most highly to April 28. the Central Australian Aboriginal prized art medium and people citynews.com.au

WINE / profile

Lisa’s journey from bottle shops to wine barrels Lisa Halgren is an assistant winemaker at award-winning Eden Road Wines. Wine writer RICHARD CALVER is curious about the 32-year-old’s journey from bottle shops in Sydney to barrels at Murrumbateman.

What sparked your interest in wine, and into becoming a winemaker?

I worked and managed bottle stores around Sydney for over six years and developed an increasing curiosity and passion towards wine. Beginning as most teenagers do, with Moscato (but the fancy kind – “the DOCG d’asti kind”) and moving towards kiwi sauvignon blanc before progressing further and finding my groove with red wine during my trip to NZ in 2012 in Pinot Central (Otago).

There began my long-term relationship with pinot noir. In 2017 I decided I wanted to learn more about the production side of the industry, to understand more the “whys” and “hows”.

During this time, a young, confident and very sassy man walked into the bottle shop I was managing, and I helped him to his car. In his boot he had a box of wine labelled De Salis.

Turns out it’s his family winery and he is the son and marketing manager. I asked him if we could get the wines into the store. After a few weeks of pestering him, we got the wines into the store and sold a heap. There started my professional relationship with the family.

One day I mentioned I was studying wine science and asked him if I could get some experience at the winery, and he put me in touch with Charlie Svenson, the father,

founder and head winemaker at the time, who invited me to meet with them.

I attended a very intimidating blind tasting of which I was the only woman amongst 20 older men. I also accompanied Charlie to a private dinner with two other winemakers in their home. This is the moment I got invited back to assist in the 2018 vintage at De Salis.

Three weeks out from vintage, I had just quit my job, had thrown myself a goodbye party, when I received a phone call from Charlie informing me of the devastating news of the bushfire that had broken out on Mount Canobolas, which had impacted on the grapes and hence, vintage 2018 was no longer. Despite this setback, I spent two weeks at the vineyard voluntarily helping with lots of tasks.

Later in the year, I was back in Sydney working for a wine store when I received a call from Charlie saying he’s looking for an assistant winemaker and he wanted me to apply. That was my cue… and the beginning of my career in winemaking.

Where did your wine journey take you, that is what jobs in the industry have you had?

I started out managing various bottle shops in Sydney, before becoming assistant winemaker at De Salis Wines in Orange.

But my favourite aspect I’ve had the luxury of working with is traditional method sparkling wine. De Salis specialised in this.

I fell in love with the demanding nature of the method, the insane number of steps involved – tirage, dosage trials and seeing what lees-ageing does to the wine.

Have you confronted sexism and how has that manifested?

Not specifically/directly in this industry.

There are times at which strenuous jobs have been delegated only to men, and that’s when I have taken initiative myself, I’ve been told to “let the guys do it”. So I guess this is sexism, but more directed towards men than it is to women.

Have you a plan for the future?

What’s the best thing about winemaking? “Anything barrel-related. Except cleaning them,” says winemaker Lisa Halgren.

Then my partner Léonore, who is also a winemaker, and is French from Bordeaux, moved to Canberra for her job, which led me to Murrumbateman, where I was warmly welcomed by Celine Rousseau, head winemaker of Eden Road Wines.

Where have you been studying?

I completed a WSET Level 3 in my early stages of wine-life, before I realised that I wanted to know the nitty gritty parts of wine – the production. So, I enrolled into a Bachelor of Wine Science at Charles Sturt University in 2017 (offered part-time and on-line). Seven

long years later, I have finally graduated.

What’s the best thing about winemaking?

Anything barrel-related. Except cleaning them! The choice and selection of producer, toast, size, spice – selecting that barrel for a specific batch is truly quite fascinating.

Blending is also a hoot.

DINING / Bella Vista, Belconnen

‘Belissima’ food at affordable prices BELLA Vista, on the lakeside in Belconnen, promises a “belissima experience”. We were there at lunch to dine, wine and see if this institution of a restaurant for the area delivers.

It did.

Bella Vista – despite recent tough times in the hospitality industry that some have not lived through before – is still standing, and strong.

It opened in 1988 and head chef and owner Sebastiano Reggente, who has been serving for 22 years, is as passionate as ever about authentic Italian cuisine celebrating seasonal ingredients.

When entering you can’t help but notice the massive mural of Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) in Venice. The crisp white tablecloths are a nice touch but don’t be concerned if you think this means fine dining and massive prices.

Instead, Bella Vista focuses on what it has been doing exceptionally well over the decades, which is to serve “belissima” comfort food at affordable prices.

The terrace is a special spot when the weather permits. The day we visited it wasn’t open, but we settled into a table right by the window with water views. Bella Vista has large windows throughout, allowing lots of light in. A dining area separate from the main one features floorto-ceiling glass.

We shared an entrée that my friend had been recommended to her by a regular at Bella Vista and it was lovely. The six warm, plump, juicy prawns were tossed in sea salt and cracked black pepper ($21). They were then delicately placed on top of a mound of smooth avocado and corn salsa. Drizzles of a gorgeous creamy aioli completed the dish. citynews.com.au

I have a sparkling wine from 2021 that I made during my time at De Salis. It’s currently sitting on lees. One day I will release this. In the meantime, I plan on dabbling with some more pinot noir.

Perhaps one day Léo and I will have our own label. She wants to have a tiny plot of vines on a block of land where we have our own house and veggie garden. You know what they say? Happy wife, happy life.

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Prawns… tossed in sea salt and cracked black pepper placed on top of a mound of smooth avocado and corn salsa.

Tortellini alla panna… beef-filled pasta pockets in a bacon and parmesan cheese sauce.

Photos: Wendy Johnson

My friend’s tortellini alla panna was delicious.

Loads of beef-filled pasta pockets arrived in a bacon and parmesan cheese sauce ($19). It was rich, but not overly so, and the pasta was cooked to perfection. Thickish slices of bacon were also cooked perfectly.

The pasta salsiccia I selected was also heartwarming and comforting ($19). I adore a quality Italian sausage and the dish didn’t skimp on the meat or the salty olives, sundried tomatoes or crispy capers. It was full-on with the flavour – bold and beautiful.

As with the tortellini, my dish arrived piping hot, which we applauded (nothing worse than

pasta that has been sitting under a heat lamp waiting to be served).

The wine list is also reasonably priced as the food. Wine by the glass starts at $8 and tops off at $11. Italian labels feature, as one would expect, but Bella Vista also tips its hat to local and district wines, including from Gallagher and Jirra.

We were too full for dessert but did order coffees (not as “up there” with the food).

The staff are charming, efficient and accommodating.

Old Saint Luke’s Studio 1045 Shingle Hill Way, Gundaroo NSW 2620 www.oldsaintlukesstudio.com.au CityNews November 30-December 6, 2023 29

BOOKS / review

No matter the price, it’s giving that’s important NICHOLAS Perkins, professor of Medieval Literature at Oxford University, has brought together in “Gifts & Books – from Early Myth to the Present” (Bodleian Library), essays from a distinguished list of contributors to reflect on how gifts are an integral part of human society.

Gifts can either strengthen bonds of friendship or become a burden/problem to the recipient. In the context of the former, it was remarkable, as recently documented by Paul Brumell in “Diplomatic Gifts”, how many RM Williams boots were given by Australian prime ministers to overseas’ heads of states under the guise of diplomatic friendship.

In the context of unwanted gifts, the first essay begins with the words: “I fear the Greeks, even when bringing gifts”, referencing Virgil’s “Aeneid”, when a Trojan priest “eyes a supersized wooden horse with suspicion and dread” outside the gates of Troy and we all know what happened next.

Perkins’ contributors, in richly illustrated thematic chapters, draw inspiration from items, notably in Oxford’s Bodleian Library collections, to reflect on impulses “to give, receive and reciprocate”.

His book celebrates the “power that the gift generates”, an act that includes all cultures and faiths. In a chapter on the Buddhist traditions of gift, text and knowledge, Camillo Formigatti highlights the perfection of giving and the sacrificial body in the Bud-

dhist tradition, emphasised in “The Birth Story of the Deer”, written on a set of palm-leaf folios.

The earliest item documented is a Sumerian clay tablet recording a legend about the epic hero Gilgamesh, dating to c.2000 BCE, which juxtaposes the temptation and deception of gifts. The most recent item is a 2023 exquisite deluxe pop-up book, “Dies Natalis”, by award-winning artist Paul Johnson, inspired by poetry and music, which he donated to the Bodleian.

Early gift examples include medieval manuscripts, reflecting when relationships between gods and humans were exemplified by holy offerings, and gifts made by and for Queen Elizabeth I. The young Princess Elizabeth wrote out her translation of “The Miroir or Glasse of the Synnefull Soule”, with the finely embroidered cover framing the initials of her stepmother, Queen Katherine Parr, to whom she gave the book as a New Year’s gift in 1544.

Power and politics intermingle in the giving of gifts as well as reflecting on social conditions. The 1789 publication, “The Life of Olaudah Equiano”, tells the story of Equiano, who was purchased as a slave and given as a gift by a captain to friends in England, but who managed to gain his freedom and write

“Laden with Christmas Toys and Presents”... a detail from Arthur Rackham’s classic illustrated “A Christmas Carol”, first published in 1915. his own life story.

A topic also explored through children’s books, such as Zetta Elliott’s 2017 YA novel, “The Ghosts in the Castle”, which reflects on colonialism and slavery to emphasise the gift of freedom.

It’s interesting that Perkins says in an interview that his most treasured gift is Jack Fingleton’s “The Greatest Test of All”, covering the famous 1960 tied test match between Australia and the West Indies.

“My grandparents owned it, then gave it to me. It’s nostalgic, heroic, nerdy and reminds me of times with them in Lancashire.

It even smells of their spare room!”, he said.

Charles Dickens, of course, is synonymous with Christmas. His first writing on the

subject, “Christmas Festivities”, in 1835 reflected on the value of benevolence.

He wished that “Christmas lasted the whole year through”, it being a time of “rational goodwill and cheerfulness”. As Faith Binkes writes in her chapter, “The Gifts of Reading”, Dickens emphasised “responsibility and community, along with those bonds forged through the happiness of bringing happiness to others”.

DICKENS’ 1843 publication of “A Christmas

Carol”, partly intended to be given as a present, sold 6000 copies on Christmas Day 1843.

It has never been out of print and has helped to promote the idea of the Dickensian Christmas and the tradition of the Christmas gift book What better Christmas gift in 2023 than the new “luxury” reprint edition, by the Bodleian Library, of Arthur Rackham’s classic illustrated “A Christmas Carol”, first published in 1915.

Rackham (1867-1939) one of the most celebrated painters of the British Golden Age of Illustration, created exquisite illustrations of Dickens characters including Marley’s ghost, Bob Cratchit’s slide down icy Cornhill, Mr and Mrs Fezziwig’s dance, and Ebenezer Scrooge. Rackham himself gave inscribed copies of the book as Christmas presents in December 1915, which now reach high prices when they come on the market. But no matter the price of a gift, it is the act of giving that is important.

ARTS IN THE CITY Basile stands up to take the ‘Blame’

By Helen Musa GREEK-American comedian Basile Katsikis, also known for his voice work as Universal Studios’ Bullwinkle J Moose and many Japanese Anime series, will be in Canberra with his stand-up show, “Blame It On the Greek”.

Simply known as “Basile”, he’s at the Hellenic Club in the City on December 7.

MULTI ARIA award-winning pianist and composer Sally Whitwell joins classical guitarist Matt Withers for a matinee performance to celebrate their recent ABC Classic release, “Starwalker”. At Wesley Music Centre, December 3.

THE documentary “Kids Raising Kids” has won director Patrick Abboud a nomination in the Australian Directors’ Guild Awards, to be announced in Sydney on December 5. It’s a story about the program Canberra College runs in which young parents can continue their schooling..

Greek-American comedian Basile Katsikis… at Hellenic Club in the City, December 7.

SHORTIS and Simpson are back with their annual political satire show, “Not Enough Detail”.

Highlights of the year, they say, include the guillotining of former RBA Governor Philip Lowe on Bastille Day and being taken for a ride by Qantas, meaning that we all “need a good laugh”. Smith’s Alternative, December 8.

CANBERRA Bach Ensemble will perform Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Advent Cantatas BWV 61, 36, 62, and 1” in St. Christopher’s Cathedral, Manuka, December 2-3.

THE Hungarian embassy is sponsoring three free screenings in the second Hungarian Film Festival of films never before seen on the big screen in Australia. Hosted by the ANU Film Group at Kambri, December 6-8.

CANBERRA medieval harpist, countertenor and composer David Yardley will launch an album of his compositions, “The Lost Codex of Avalon Vol II” with a concert.

Luminescence Chamber Singers will join him at the ANU Drill Hall Gallery, December 3.

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HOROSCOPE Your week in the stars

By Joanne Madeline Moore

PUZZLES General knowledge crossword No. 909

December 4-10, 2023 ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

With the Sun and Mars shining in fellow fire sign Sagittarius, you’re in Ram freedom-bunny mode! Plus, indulgent Venus and restless Jupiter rev up your adventurous, extravagant side. So this week will work best if you experiment and explore, stretch well beyond your comfort zone, and fraternise with a stimulating crowd. But you could receive unsettling information about a friend or financial matter. Do some stringent fact checking and be extra patient.

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This week’s stars highlight the constant balancing act between individual needs and relationship responsibilities. Jupiter and Uranus (both in Taurus) emphasise the importance of maintaining your individuality and prioritising personal projects. Whereas Venus (your ruling planet) shines a bright spotlight on your partner, relatives and/or friends. Are you meeting their needs, as well as your own?

Tuesday and Wednesday are terrific for socialising.

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GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

The Sun and Mars are both transiting through your relationship zone, so a problem with a loved one should start to improve, as long as you are proactive about finding a solution. When it comes to your aspirations for the future, don’t just dream about them. You need a practical plan (and the cooperation of others) to turn abstract dreams into robust reality. The late week stars highlight travelling, teaching, studying, intense conversation and inner contemplation.

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

Attached Crabs – this week’s stars are perfect for cementing your commitment to your partner, as you find extra romantic ways to show your affection. Singles – give superficial suitors a wide berth. Look for lasting love with a soulful Scorpio or a charismatic Capricorn. And – with the Sun and Mars in your wellbeing zone – don’t just talk about improving your fitness levels. Be proactive, jump off the comfy couch and get physical in the great outdoors!

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

The focus is on friends, as the Sun and Mars move through your friendship zone.

But don’t let your peer group influence you too much. The planets encourage being your own person and doing your own thing. So your motto for the week is from birthday great, singer-songwriter Jim Morrison: “A friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself.” Creativity is high on Friday, but don’t let your tendency to gossip come between you and others.

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

This week Mercury (your power planet) forms a fabulous trine with lucky, plucky Jupiter. Plus, Jupiter and Uranus are both jumping through your aspirations and adventure zones. So you need to be more proactive and courageous about turning current average opportunities into future good fortune. Where intention flows, energy goes! Your inspiring motto for the moment is from birthday great, poet Emily Dickinson: “Fortune befriends the bold.”

Solution next edition

Across

Down

1 Name an imaginary creature said to haunt billabongs and their like. (6) 7 Who formulated the theory of relativity? (8) 8 Name a renowned card game. (6) 9 Which term describes the art of prose? (8) 10 What is a place where instruction is given to children? (6) 11 Which word means private, secret, or confidential?

(8) 14 What do we call the male offspring of one’s daughter? (8) 18 Name a philosophical system developed by Laozi. (6) 19 What is a deposit of sand, mud, etc, formed by flowing water? (8) 21 Which dish is served at dinner before the main course? (6) 22 Which term describes “relating to the beast fables”?

(8) 23 Hollywood is known as which town? (6)

1 What often comes as something in surprise? (8) 2 Name the race of brutes in Gulliver’s Travels. (6) 3 To have no equal, is to be what? (8) 4 Name the joint between the thigh and the lower part of the leg. (4) 5 To be at leisure, or idle, is to be what? (6) 6 Name an atoll in the Marshall Islands. (6) 12 What is an unguent also known as? (8) 13 Name the English general, Puritan statesman, and lord protector of the Commonwealth, Oliver ... (8) 15 What was the dole once called? (6) 16 What is a nerve cell also known as? (6) 17 Which substance is used for making thread? (6) 20 Who was the Egyptian goddess of fertility and nature? (4)

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

On Tuesday and Wednesday, taskmaster Saturn links up with your ruling planet Venus. Which encourages and boosts your conscientious, perfectionist side. But don’t overdo it, Libra! Leave room for mistakes, stumbles and occasional sloppiness. No one can get things 100% right all the time. Wisdom for the week comes from birthday great, actress Dame Judi Dench: “I think you should take your job seriously, but not yourself – that is the best combination.”

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Sudoku medium No. 356

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

Mercury and Pluto (your patron planet) are transiting through your communication zone. So you’re keen to enjoy plenty of stimulating conversations with a wide range of interesting, adventurous people within your extended peer group. It’s a wonderful week for flashes of inspiration as you fraternise with local, interstate and/or international friends. The Venus-Saturn trine will help you sort out your priorities and face relationship responsibilities with a smile.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

The Sun and Mars are visiting your sign (plus Mercury and Venus link up with Jupiter) so you’re in adventurous, freedom-loving mode. Limiting rules, regulations and restrictions won’t be welcome! But slow down, Sagittarius, otherwise you could be involved in an argument or accident. Inspiring quote is from singer-songwriter Jim Morrison (who was born on December 8, 1943): “The most important kind of freedom is to be what you really are.”

TREASURE YOUR FAMILY MEMORIES

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

On Tuesday and Wednesday, Venus makes a lovely link with your power planet Saturn, which favours financial matters, established relationships and finding longterm love. Then Friday’s Mercury/Jupiter trine is particularly good for business, travel, education, conversation and curiosity. Your mantra for the moment is from birthday great Walt Disney: “We keep moving forward, opening up new doors and doing new things because we’re curious.”

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2023 citynews.com.au

Solutions – November 23 edition Sudoku hard No. 355

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

The more creative and proactive you are at work, school or college, the better the week will be. And the more you help others, the more connected you’ll feel. With Mercury moving through your networking zone, it’s also time to boost your social media profile by communicating with more family, friends, colleagues, clients and/ or customers. You have the ability to influence people in positive ways, as you employ encouragement and praise to get others onside.

Solution next edition

Crossword No. 908

Courageous Mars and the creative Sun are currently transiting through your hopes-and-wishes zone. So it’s important to dream a dream, turn it into a goal, and then make it happen. No procrastinating or complaining, Aquarius! Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Walt Disney (who was born on December 5, 1901): “All your dreams can come true, if you have the courage to pursue them.”

Friday is fabulous for catching up with family and friends.

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