CityNews 231207

ACT SLUMPS DEEPER IN DEBT, WHERE HAS THE MONEY GONE? JON STANHOPE & KHALID AHMED say the government’s waste is there for all to see DECEMBER 7, 2023

LEHRMANN Might be best to settle before the judge decides

HUGH SELBY

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A second opinion on hearing loss

– you need professional advice, not a sales pitch A woman came into my clinic for a consultation about her hearing aids, telling me her hearing aids were 4 years old and she had never found them to be of much help. She said the salesperson quoted her $14,000 for a pair of hearing aids, however, the monthly special of 20% discount meant they cost her $11,200. So, she ‘only’ paid $11,200 for hearing aids that did not help her. Sadly, I hear this all too often.

Here are some things to do to avoid this type of problem:

years. If you are not sure about their advice, then seek a second opinion. The wrong hearing aids can be an expensive waste and could lead you to stop wearing them. You should always have a trial of hearing aids to ensure that they are right for you.

6. Pensioners and eligible DVA card holders often have entitlement to free services. If you are covered by a government concession, then let the clinician know (even though your clinician should ask). Eligible clients may obtain free hearing tests, consultations, and free hearing aids (referred to as fully subsidized hearing aids).

you are dealing with a qualified clinician, then they belong to a professional association. The best contact is an independent complaints body referred to as Ethics Review Committee.

You can email ethics@auderc.org.au and view the website www.auderc.org.au. You can make an anonymous complaint and your complaint will be handled in a confidential and professional manner. If you are in the ACT, contact the ACT Human Rights Commission email human.rights@act.gov au and the website www.hrc.act.gov.au.

1. Visit your GP. If you or someone you know has a problem with their hearing, visiting your GP to check for wax in the ears, and to get advice is a “A person without starting point.

These hearing aids are appropriate for many professional qualifications people, however if you 2. Qualifications. Always has no business advising you have great difficulty check the qualifications of about your hearing. hearing in background the person you are dealing noise (for example a They need to belong to a with. A person without professional association with a Code restaurant), then you professional qualifications may want to consider of Conduct, so you know they are has no business advising partially subsidized acting in your best interests, you about your hearing. hearing aids. This is when not their own.”

They need to belong to a the government pays a professional association with certain amount, and you – Dr Vass a Code of Conduct, so you pay for additional features know they are acting in your best and benefits. Your decision interests, not their own. should be based on the following: (a) Can you afford the more expensive 3. Independent advice. You should get hearing aids? Don’t go into financial stress independent, professional advice. if you can’t afford them. (b) Are you clear 4. There are a wide range of hearing aids out on the free vs partially subsidized features there. Finding the right hearing aids for your & benefits? Never believe someone who communication needs can be challenging. tells you the free hearings are not good or Hearing aids vary in price and performance. of poor performance, this is simply not true.

Bluetooth® connectivity and rechargeable (c) If you try the partially subsidized hearing hearing aids are available on most hearing aids and are not happy, then return them. Do aids, along with apps that allow you to control not keep hearing aids because you think the your hearing aids from your mobile device. Be failure is yours or that you will improve over aware that just because a hearing aid is more time. If the hearing aids are not working for expensive, that doesn’t mean they are the best you in the trial period, then they will not work hearing aid for you. for you in a year or two.

5. Just as hearing aids vary in performance, clinicians may also vary in performance due to training, experience, and skills. Make sure that you are comfortable and confident in their advice. You are likely to be with this clinician for the life of your new hearing aids, typically 4 to 5

7. If you have a complaint, then seek help.

Your clinician should be able to help you through most of your needs. Sometimes, a problem may be beyond the expertise of even the best clinician. However, if you have a complaint there are things you can do. If

Book an appointment today, Phone: 02 6282 2717

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

NEWS / public housing

Well written, well read

Volume 29, Number: 49. Phone: 6189 0777

‘The inspector vomited not once, but three times’

By Lily

PASS A WATER leak in single-mother Danielle’s Melba public-housing home has caused “countless” power surges, resulting in her losing three fridges, two kettles, a bread maker and a vacuum cleaner since moving in four years ago.

But it was her October quarterly power bill of $2500 that became the last straw in Danielle’s fight against Housing ACT. “I’m exhausted, my friends say I am just a shell of the person I used to be,” she says.

“I got the keys to this place on Halloween four years ago, and from the day I moved in there have been problems.

“Initially, I thought fair enough, it hadn’t been lived in for 18 months, but I soon realised there were bigger issues.”

Danielle says the bathroom is just the start of her problems.

“The shower wall is bowed, I’ve had the spirit level out as proof,” she says.

“From when I moved in, the wood around the shower had rotted leaving a hole into the floor below, which leads out to our linen cupboard and carpet.

her children and their friends when she received the October power bill.

“It was such a dramatic spike,” she says.

“I went and looked for a hydroponic setup, that was the only thing I thought could make logical sense, but of course, they hadn’t.

“You can’t even use that much power by always having the heater on.”

In July last year, Danielle says, the house was condemned by the Growth and Renewal Program.

“It should have meant no one could live here, and it should have been knocked down,” she says.

“The inspector actually vomShower with a hole in the rotted wood that allows Black mold and water staining ited, not once, not twice, but water to leak under the floor. on the outside wall. three times through his visit “Water is running under the floor, much moisture sitting around. here, and that was before it got to up our hallway, and there is water in “It has resulted in us getting black this point. the walls as well from the shower. mold growing outside now, too.”

“But there has been no communica“It is a double whammy really, and Danielle says she can’t have family tion about it since. leads into my room.” over because of it.

“In fact, they are now telling me Because the house is always wet, Dan“My grandma doesn’t come over be- I damaged the bathroom. Another ielle says she needs to keep her bedroom cause she got sick last time,” she says. inspector came, she was supposed to window open always to help slightly “She’s in her mid-80s, I don’t want to phone me, but I went out quickly bewith the smell and the dampness. be the cause of her death. cause I hadn’t received the call.

“The window just has to stay open, “My nieces and nephews have “She came while I was out, and told or it smells like sewage,” she says. stopped coming over because it’s not my daughter that I had taken to the “My clothes don’t stay dry, my bed safe, people are embarrassed to have bathroom with a broom handle, as if will go moldy so I have to wash my their car seen here.” that is something people do to get a bedding twice a week, there is just so Danielle says she initially blamed bathroom upgrade.

“I don’t even want a bathroom upgrade, I like this layout, I just want some maintenance done to stop the leaks and mold.”

Danielle says she has lost count of how many times she’s made complaints over the four years.

“I’m a single mother, I work fulltime and I am exhausted,” she says.

“I have spammed [Minister Yvette] Yvette Berry, and [Liberal MLA] Mark Parton. Elizabeth Kikkert’s office has been the most productive, and I’ve emailed [senators] Lydia Thorpe and Jacinta Price, their offices have actually helped, too.

“I keep hearing that other people are getting work done through Housing, even in my nearby area. I can’t even get a shower head replaced. It took 14 days after I was told it would be just four hours, and I ended up going to Bunnings and doing it myself.

“Everyone I have spoken to or heard about that is getting help, is white. I’m Aboriginal, that is the only thing I can put it down to.

“I have sent emails now to Housing, asking if they will finally be happy when my kids and I, an Aboriginal family, die because of the house.”

Housing ACT minister Yvette Berry was contacted for comment, but “CityNews” has not received a response.

“CityNews” has agreed to withhold Danielle’s surname.

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LEGAL OPINION / Lehrmann defamation case

It might be best to settle before the judge decides “If the defence had a ‘knockout’ blow they had to raise it with Bruce during their cross-examination.

That never happened. It follows they have no ‘wegotcha’ evidence.” Legal columnist HUGH SELBY reports from the theatre of litigation.

CHRISTMAS dawn in a home with small children brings quick feet pattering, and yells of excitement.

Santa has been. This is the happy theatre of make believe, of unrestrained innocence.

Not so in the adult theatre of litigation. It is devils with torment, not Santa with gifts, that make deliveries.

Where some see justice, I see a puppet show: especially now in the recreating of a play about what may, or may not, have occurred one night some years ago in our national parliament building.

In the biggest early summer show in town there are two key puppets, Bruce and Brittany and, so we are told, a large number of others – some well-known, some not – but all moved here and there by skilled advocate puppeteers.

In 2022, we had the Canberra tragedy played out on a criminal stage. It ended, unexpectedly, with no resolution. There was neither a day of reckoning nor a new dawn for the

6 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

principals.

What was surprising was the chief puppeteer losing his job in mid-2023 after an inquiry for which he called.

How fickle is fate.

Now in late-2023 the tragedy has been refashioned as a savage farce played out on another stage in another town. In this new show, now in its third week, there has been nothing inspiring, redeeming, uplifting, or remorseful from anyone. It has been, let us be frank, a play with no soul.

If anything is prevalent it is the despair-inducing atmosphere of the dementors removed from Hogwarts and let loose among us.

“Punch and Judy”, a simple, comedic story, played out over centuries, needed no interpreter. It was fun. One did not walk away from that show carrying the burden of despair.

Contrast that with the daily media reporting of the puppets in our modern play being caught out for this or that error – be it inadvertent or deliberate (a choice that, thankfully, is not for the media or us).

The mainstream reporters see the

Brittany Higgins arrives to give evidence at the Federal Court in Sydney.

Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP puppets, but they are blind to the strings being pulled and released by the puppeteers. They report nothing of what lies beneath.

Because the defendants are asserting that Bruce raped Brittany the

onus is upon them to prove that claim on the balance of probabilities.

Bruce, as the plaintiff, told his version first with his puppeteer (with whom he also worked at the 2022 criminal trial). Then he was crossexamined. This, not unexpectedly, revealed shortcomings; how important is for the trial judge to decide.

None of those shortcomings took him into the room where fair Brittany was found distressed and alone.

Critically the cross-examiner was obliged by a “rule of fairness” to raise with Bruce any point about which one of the defence witnesses might later give evidence and which was at odds with Bruce’s version.

Put simply, if the defence had a “knockout” blow they had to raise it with Bruce during their crossexamination. That never happened.

We have seen their best and it was boring. It follows that they have no “we-gotcha” evidence.

What they have got – front and centre – is Brittany, a puppet of changeable faces, garbs and moods.

This case – unlike Roberts-Smith and McLachlan – is mired, stymied, in the memory and character limitations of the principal puppets.

It is down to trench warfare with the parties in their dugouts slugging it out, with no sign of how a meaningful breakthrough can occur.

That is bad news for the defendants

because they have the onus of proving their case. Every glitch uncovered – and there have already been some – in Brittany’s story diminishes their chances of success. They know it.

Bruce is not a man of means. Were he to lose this case then the order that he pay the defendant’s legal costs will likely lead to his bankruptcy and no payment to the winning side.

The media defendants, however, have the means both to pay any damages awarded to Bruce and to pay his legal costs.

What is unknown is the judge’s attitude. Does either party want to find out when there is an evidential, death-by-a- thousand-cuts, stalemate?

There are good reasons to keep this case away from a judge’s carefully crafted reasons for decision. It will include findings about believability – possibly very damaging. Probably better to negotiate a settlement, the terms of which are couched to be reasonable and pragmatic.

I don’t imagine that the two principal puppets will be especially happy; however, each has to consider other potential litigation and their career prospects.

The puppeteers, however, will be thrilled. Even after the tax man cometh, it will be a pot-of-gold start to 2024. They alone can laugh.

Hugh Selby is a former barrister.

citynews.com.au

NEWS / Blue Christmas

Sharon’s service for those struggling at Christmas

By Lily

PASS SHARON Jacobs was ordained in February, and has made it her mission to put her own mark on Tuggeranong Uniting Church’s “Blue Christmas” service.

“I lost my husband six years ago to aggressive stomach cancer,” she says.

“I recognise the joy in Christmas, but there is a depth in joy that even when grieving one can find the strength to acknowledge.

“At the Blue Christmas service, we’ll be acknowledging the profound nature of Christmas, and that Christ is love.

“It’s a service for people who are happy to reach out to that quiet love in their hearts, and we’ll just let the spirit move where it does.”

Sharon, 61, says there won’t be singing of joyful carols, and there won’t be loud and boisterous prayers.

“It’s a service for people who may have lost a loved one, a companion or suffered in recent bushfires or floods, or maybe for people who have a partner with dementia, or perhaps even for people who are neurodiverse and just want something quieter,” she says.

“We may involve people in the light-

Sharon Jacobs… “I know a few people will be aware of their grief in the lead up to Christmas.”

Photo: Lily Pass ing of candles, and in the providing of tissues, hopefully leaving them with hope and courage within themselves.

“The world is a mess right now, with Israel and Gaza, and the destruction

or damage of climate change, even the cost-of-living crisis, so I believe there is an increased need for a Blue Christmas service this year.”

Sharon knows that not everyone is

comfortable with crying in public.

“I know a few people will be aware of their grief in the lead up to Christmas,” she says.

“But they may not wish to come because they might cry in public.

“We have a number of men who have lost their wives recently, and we know they will have quiet moments at home, so perhaps they can take an opportunity, a moment in their own space, while the Blue Christmas service happens.”

Having grown up in NZ, Sharon has lived in Canberra since 2006.

“I have a BSc in botany and a BA in zoology from Victoria University of Wellington (VUW),” she says.

“I was the Anglican Lay – unordained – or Student Chaplain at VUW for two years,” she says.

“I met Kerry, my husband, in my second year.

“He was initially headhunted by Edinburgh University – he was an accountant – but I used to say he was more a sociologist.

“He looked into, for example, how teachers become principals or how doctors become clinicians, how people were trained in accounting systems to enable them to become more.”

Eventually, Kerry was headhunted by the Australian National University, where they made Australia their home.

“We have two children, they live in

Canberra too, and often come to my services to help out,” she says.

Sharon says the hardest part is not having Kerry by her side.

“I’m doing this ministry on my own, when I had expected to have somebody else there beside me, we made a jolly good team,” she says.

“He would be proud of me.

“I understand the need for a Blue Christmas service, it’s an important thing and I am honoured to be trusted with running the service.”

Sharon says it’s a wonderful congregation to work with, everyone turns up with enthusiasm.

“We are the only Uniting Church on the south side hosting a Blue Christmas service this year, and it’s on December 13 at 7pm,” she says.

“We are here to show the love of God, enabling people to have some kind of healing through Blue Christmas, for people who are finding Christmas to be a difficult time, acknowledging their grief and I think that’s very important,” she says.

“We don’t share in the belief that if you’re Christian, life will be perfect, because it never is. We preach to remind people in troubled times, God will be with you, you will not be alone.”

Blue Christmas service, Tuggeranong Uniting Church, 17 Comrie Street, Wanniassa, 7pm, December 13.

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CityNews December 7-13, 2023 7

KEEPING UP THE ACT / poking fun at act politics

BRIEFLY

Seriously, how will history applaud me?

Men’s shed to the rescue

Having gone the distance in the political ring all these years, ANDREW BARR-BRAWLER says it’s time to reflect on his legacy.

BOBBING and weaving as your Chief Minister has been a hard slog. But having gone the distance in the political ring for all these years, the bell is now ding-dinging and it’s time for me to reflect on my legacy.

How will history applaud me? With the roar of a fevered crowd or with crickets and the cocked head of a baffled dog?

My combative hero, Napoleon, once said: “To understand the man, you need to understand the world of the boy.”

So, let me give you a blow-by-blow account of how I became the heavy hitter that I am today.

As a child, I hit the ol’ development wall pretty fast. Once I reached toddlerhood, I thought – yep, I’m staying right here, thanks pal. I used to love banging my little fists and screaming about my terror toy rights. I didn’t pull any punches. I knew then that the world was my oyster and I would become the irritant in its shell.

Later on, I went to Lyneham High, where I picked a fight with the principal to force him to let me wear whatever I liked. I even brought my

Of course, once you win the top prize, that’s it. What else is there to do? Who do you fight? That stumped me for a bit until I discovered I could fight the feds, I could clout the mum into it. You see, the Catholics, I could rope-a-dope old bastard wanted me to the opposition, I could thump throw in my towel and the media, I could deck the be like the other kids. doctors and I could clobber As if! those community councils.

Years later, when I Heck, I even shadow-boxed was the ACT Educamyself on most of my policy tion Minister, I actually positions. championed school uniSo, what’s my legacy after forms as one of my policies. all that slogging? Um… well…

I think my ring doctor at there’s… um… And, of course… the time said it was a sign Look, being an old bloke now, of my repressed hypocrisy. the ol’ noggin’s a bit punchy and Of course, I later came not what it used to be. Funny out as a completely open thing, though… I used to love a bit hypocrite and was warmly of fisticuffs with all the geriatric “Being an old bloke now, the ol’ noggin’s a bit punchy welcomed within the thrivgeezers in this town. But now I’m and not what it used to be.” ing Canberra hypocrisy an old fogey myself, I… scene. working for (well, fighting against) Hold on a minute, Nurse Rach Leaving school, I continued to enjoy Jon Stanhope and then John is at the door. Sorry, is that a syringe? being divisive and became a regular Hargreaves until they couldn’t stand What?! No, Rachel, I don’t care if it’s brawler in student politics while dome any longer. our new policy for insufferable oldies, ing my easy-as BA at the ANU. I’m not By 2004, I was jack of the whole I’m not doing voluntary-assisted sure what policies I was fighting for, “working” caper and decided to run anything! What?! Yvette, you’re here, but I once told some scummy Liberal for Molongolo as a cruisy MLA. The too?! You should be fighting Tories chick to get a great woolly dog up her. ungrateful bastards didn’t want me at and your electorate, not me! No, stuff Happy days, happy days. first, but I was as persistent as claret your going gentle into that good night!

Leaving uni, I briefly toyed with on the mat, and eventually got elected Ouch! That was an unexpected jab… getting a real job before someone in 2006. Once in government, I was at Oh no… head spinning… going wafted the smelling salts under it again, pummelling my opponents down for the count…you don’t undermy nose and I came to my senses. to eventually snatch the heavyweight stand, I coulda been a contender, I I instead got a job as a party hack, crown of chief minister in 2014. coulda been somebody…

THE Hawker Men’s Shed is hosting its quarterly Hawker Community Repair Café and Market at Hawker International Softball Centre, Walhallow Street, 10am1pm, on December 10. Repairs and advice on fixing items such as: Apple devices, fabric/woollen clothes, furnishings and toys, jewellery, leather goods, electrical household appliances and shed tools, garden equipment, mowers, small motors and bicycles. They boast a success rate of repairs to date of 89 per cent for 500 items saved from going to landfill.

Carols in Tuggeranong THE Salvation Army is hosting carols at Town Park, Greenway, from 6pm on December 17. The event will feature local vocalist Amber Nicolls, the Salvation Army Tuggeranong Band and community choir Timbrels. Carol booklets are available for download online. Entry is free. The event will begin with a sausage sizzle at 5pm.

Expert look at 3Rs AN expert panel has been appointed to conduct an independent inquiry into literacy and numeracy performance in the ACT. The ACT government says the panel will work with, and seek to reflect the views and aspirations of, the ACT community. It will consult with academics, educators, unions, parents, carers and students. The expert panel’s report will be tabled in the Legislative Assembly by the last sitting day in June 2024.

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THE ACT BUDGET / interest bill on deficit starts to bite

Deeper in debt, where has the money gone?

I

N a series of recent articles we highlighted the precarious state of the ACT budget.

In a nutshell: the operating budget is in deep deficit. Contrary to the government’s insistence it will return to surplus in coming years, it is almost certain to remain in deficit.

Debt is already at an unsustainable level, and is forecast to increase in the foreseeable future at an average of $1 billion a year.

With the highest increase in taxation over the last decade, the ACT is now the highest taxing jurisdiction in Australia.

Service provision, particularly in health, has deteriorated over the decade from better than average to the worst in the nation.

ACT residents have paid heavily, both in higher taxes and in degraded services. Future generations of Canberrans will, for decades to come, be paying off the debt accumulated so far, together with that which the government has announced it plans to generate in coming years.

The ACT government’s cavalier approach to the territory’s finances is clearly causing consternation within the community and we are regularly approached by people who ask us for our views, for example, on where we think all the money has gone and whether we believe that the light rail project is central to the dire state of the ACT’s finances.

Many of those inclined to defend the light rail project are wont to insist that the pandemic was central to the continuing run of budget deficits and the massive increase in debt.

We have previously, and comprehensively, addressed this latter point.

Over the seven years from 2012-13 to 2018-19 (ie, before the pandemic), the ACT’s average deficit was 5.3 per cent of the budget, the largest of all jurisdictions, while the states and territories as a whole were in surplus, averaging 1.2 power cent.

Similarly, in this period, the ACT’s net debt, as a proportion of revenue, increased by 56 per cent, the second highest rate in Australia behind only WA (71 per cent). Including the pandemic years, the ACT’s deficit averaged 6.9 per cent, again the highest in Australia, while the states and territories, as a whole, recorded a deficit of 1.2 per cent on average.

Finances and services nation’s worst The light rail project by itself does not explain the persistent deficits and rising debt levels. However, it most certainly exemplifies, in its processes and the substance of its policy, the poor financial management that

The ACT faces annual interest payments of nearly $600 million on a staggering projected deficit of $16 billion and still Andrew Barr, as treasurer, keeps borrowing at a billion a year. He taxes us to nation-leading levels while essential services, such as health and housing, falter. So where’s the money gone? JON STANHOPE & KHALID AHMED think they know… has reduced the ACT’s finances and services to the worst in Australia.

The generally accepted principles of sound public financial management espoused in both the literature and by practitioners are: • Fiscal discipline; • Strategic resource allocation; and • Efficiency of service delivery.

In addition, transparency and accountability are givens in wellfunctioning democracies, and key attributes of sound public financial management.

The ACT government has failed on all of these objectives of public financial management and good governance.

Aggregate fiscal discipline in managing public finances is paramount, and in principle, can be considered an end in itself.

Abandoning expenditure control or its loss will inevitably lead to a structural imbalance in the budget that (a) becomes increasingly difficult to correct; and (b) if allowed to persist, will seriously erode service delivery capacity.

As an example, in the ACT in 2012-13, expenditure grew by 9.5 per cent over the previous year. However, there was no matching growth in revenue. That resulted in a deficit of $347 million, which has persisted, averaging $294 million in the period from 2012-13 to 2018-19.

The 2012-13 deficit, perhaps conceived as a one-off temporary aberration, is now an embedded structural feature of every ACT budget.

We have also previously noted that the Chief Minister and Treasurer, Andrew Barr, has been unable or unwilling to control expenditure since 2012-13, and that based on that history any and all forecasts of a return of the ACT budget to surplus are illusory.

Our most recent articles were based on the 2022-23 estimated outcome as published in the 2023-24 budget being $208 million more than the original budget.

The recently published audited financial statements show a further increase in expenditure and a blowout of $254 million in the current budget.

The original 2022-23 budget forecast a deficit of $701 million. This was revised down to $640 million in the Budget Review and $664 million in the 2023-24 budget, but has now been confirmed as a massive $772 million in the final outcome. This suggests a culture within the ACT government of unchecked and unmanaged expenditure.

The other two principles of public financial management relate to “efficiency”.

Strategic resource allocation refers to allocative efficiency.

Government budgeting suffers from a tragedy of the commons where stakeholders in a particular cause, project or a policy are oblivious to the collective benefit, or to the benefit of others.

Allocating resources to their best use does not mean the government cannot set priorities, rather that it should seek to maximise the benefit across the community as whole.

ACT residents have paid heavily, both in higher taxes and in degraded services. Future generations will, for decades to come, be paying off the debt.

‘Debt has never been this cheap’ According to the Auditor-General, stage 1 of the light rail project had a benefit to cost ratio of 0.49, ie, costs outweigh its intended benefits. It is, however, difficult to imagine that there was no other project or service that would have delivered a net benefit.

Disability Adjusted Life Year (DALY) is a measure of health used internationally by the World Health Organisation. The annual expenditure on the tram is equivalent to more than 800 DALYs or more than 13,000 hospital separations. The choice of a 14-kilometre tramline that, according to the ABS data has simply substituted bus journeys to work, clearly fails the allocative efficiency test.

After the 2021-22 budget Minister Chris Steel famously said: “Debt has never been this cheap. Financing costs have never been lower, and interest

Going down the drain… Annual interest costs on gross borrowings of $16.2 billion are forecast to reach $595 million by 2026-27. rates are also at a record low”.

Mr Steel was apparently seeking to reassure the community after the 2021-22 budget that forecast a 15 per cent deficit in net operating balance. It is a worrying mindset with worrying real-life consequences.

Money raised through taxes or debt is not “free”. The costs are ultimately borne by Canberrans, and disproportionately by those less well off, some of whom may have to forgo essentials such as doctor’s visits and even food to meet their tax obligations or pay rents inflated by tax.

In 2011-12, the interest costs on historic debt were $96 million. In 2022-23, those costs had increased to $315 million, significantly more than total expenditure, for example, on environmental protection.

The additional interest costs equate to approximately 37,000 hospital separations or more than 2300 DALYs. Interest costs on gross borrowings of $16.224 billion are forecast to reach $595 million by 2026-27.

The waste is there for all to see Obviously, if borrowings were kept stable, there would be significantly more funds available for the Canberra hospital system that, as a consequence of serial underfunding, is now one of the worst if not the worst in Australia as it languishes with insufficient clinicians and beds.

Notwithstanding its appearance as a mere technical concept that is far removed from the real life political and social considerations, allocative efficiency has serious ethical and

moral implications.

Operational efficiency means delivering the maximum possible outputs at the lowest possible cost.

It also means eliminating waste and unnecessarily inflated prices.

Governments are entrusted with public monies and any waste or misuse of these are a breach of that trust. In this context we note ready examples of such a breach of faith in the expenditure of public monies: • The failed IT contract that the Minister Steel considered a mere “learning experience”.

• $34 million spent on the Garran surge centre that would have been unnecessary if the government had invested in the hospital in a timely way.

• an extra $900,000 paid for a school renovation because of an alleged veto by a Labor-affiliated union.

• $8.5 million for advice on complexity.

These clearly do not fully account for the debt and deficits racked up by the ACT government, however they are not only significant contributors but the proverbial tips of the icebergs symptomatic of a culture of waste and mismanagement.

So, where has all the money gone?

While that is not at all clear, but in our view, it has been misallocated with the resultant economic inefficiency, social inequities, ad hoc remediations and outright waste there for all to see.

Jon Stanhope is a former chief minister of the ACT and Dr Khalid Ahmed a former senior ACT Treasury official.

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CityNews December 7-13, 2023 9

NEWS FEATURE / archives

Exposing images of the forgotten photographers

By Helen

MUSA THE glamour and excitement of Australian press photography are honoured annually in the Walkley Awards and have been the subject of many exhibitions, but now the National Archives turns the focus on Australia’s forgotten government photographers.

Meticulously recording and capturing the lives of ordinary Australians between 1939 and 1996, the archive explains, dozens of photographers were employed by government agencies to capture Australia’s culture, landscapes and animals.

This time the spotlight is turned back on them, offering a close-up of the lives and work of the behind-thescenes snappers who documented the visual heritage of and a virtual darkroom so visitors can watch pictures develop.

The Archives have a collection of almost 11 million images to draw on, and curator of “Focus”, Emily Catt, says: “From Tim Acker’s incredible aerial views of landscapes across the country to Harry Frauca’s intimate shots of iconic Australian animals, the breadth

of subject matter is astounding.”

Some are celebratory images, such as Eric Wadsworth’s pictures of revellers enjoying the rides at the Moomba Festival in 1986 or Norman Plant’s photograph of dancers performing at the 1987 Canberra Festival, but others are more ordinary and relaxed, such as John Houldsworth’s shot of an unnamed Canberran taking a lunchtime nap in the Parliamentary Triangle in 1981.

An unusual, intimate image by Bill Pedersen shows prayer time at “a” Yarralumla mosque in 1966.

There are also impressive artistic shots, such as Jim Fitzpatrick’s “Seeking relief from the heat at the North Sydney Olympic Pool”, 1956. But is his subject really the bathers in the foreground or rather the magnificent Sydney Harbour Bridge at the rear?

Archives director-general Simon Froude notes that it is easy to associate government photography with political shots, but believes the exhibition goes far beyond what might be expected, to reveal artistry and talent that transcends their “bureaucratic origins”, giving them the recognition they deserve.

National Archives, Parkes, “Focus: Australian Government Photographers” is open until July 10. Free guided tours 11am-11.30am every Sunday from December.

Jim Fitzpatrick’s “Seeking relief from the heat at the North Sydney Olympic Pool”, 1956.

Norman Plant’s photograph of dancers performing at the 1987 Canberra Festival.

John Houldsworth’s shot of an unnamed Canberran taking a lunchtime nap in 1981.

Bill Pedersen’s intimate prayer time at “a” Yarralumla mosque, 1966.

Eric Wadsworth shows revellers enjoying the rides at the Moomba Festival in 1986.

Harry Frauca’s photo of a Tawny frogmouth, Podargus strigoides, 1973.

Tim Acker’s “Coastline near Merimbula, NSW”, 1995.

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The Department of Defence will conduct three information forums to outline the proposed construction works associated with the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) Living-In Accommodation Project. Subject to Parliamentary Approval, the works will be delivered from mid to late 2024 through to late 2026 at ADFA, Campbell, ACT. The proposed works include replacement of the existing Living-In facilities with contemporary, safe and suitable accommodation which will support recruitment, retention and wellbeing of trainee officers.

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chsol.com.au 10 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

Information about the proposed works will be available at the forums with representatives from the Department of Defence available to answer any questions.

Venue: Academy Cadets Mess, Building 4, Gallipoli Rd, ADFA, Campbell, ACT Over 30 years serving Canberra

Community Information Forum Details Wednesday, 6 December 2023

6:00pm – 8:00pm

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If you would like further information on the forums or would like to provide feedback, please contact the Project Team via email at ADFALIA@aurecongroup.com citynews.com.au

NATIONAL TRUST (ACT)

advertising feature

Reviews pick up National Trust recommendations

National Trust (ACT) President GARY KENT reviews recent Trust activities.

WELCOME to our occasional column on National Trust of Australia (ACT) activities.

In recent weeks reports have been released by the ACT Heritage Jurisdictional Review and the ACT Assembly inquiry into ACT Heritage Arrangements.

It is pleasing that a number of Trust recommendations have been picked up in these reviews.

The ACT heritage system needs

ACT recipients of 2023 National Trust Heritage Awards ACT. President Gary Kent is pictured far left and ACT Heritage minister Rebecca Vassarotti is in the centre.

considerable updating and additional resourcing and the findings of these two reviews will provide excellent pointers to the way forward.

The Trust is pleased to announce the recipients of this year’s ACT Heritage Awards – you will find details elsewhere on this page.

Congratulations to winners and all other nominees.

The ACT Assembly elections are scheduled for October 2024 and the Trust is developing a list of policy priorities to place before election candidates.

As usual we are working on a number of heritage issues, including Canberra

Brickworks Stage 1, Forestry Place in Yarralumla, UNSW on the former Reid CIT site Stage 1, the future of Canberra Olympic Pool, the Commonwealth Avenue Bridge upgrade and the Acton Foreshores development.

The Trust welcomes your views on these or other issues that you suggest

we could take up.

Please write to me at president@ nationaltrustact.org.au should you have any suggestions.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

2023 NATIONAL TRUST (ACT) HERITAGE AWARDS WINNERS The National Trust of Australia (ACT) congratulates the following recipients of a 2023 National Trust Heritage Award.

Category Winners • Old Parliament House Fire Remediation Project, winner in the Architecture and Building Conservation category. Awarded to Museum of Australian Democracy OPH Heritage and Capital Projects, Manteena Security (Aust) Pty Ltd, International Conservation Services, Celia Cramer Conservation, Conservation Works, Eric Martin & Associates, Art and Archival.

• Jarramlee Nature Reserve Remediation and Restoration Project, winner in the Heritage Landscapes and the Natural Environment category. Awarded to Cord Civil Pty Ltd. • Restoring the Natural Riparian Environment of the Tuggeranong Creek at the Tuggeranong Homestead Project, winner in the Local Community Projects category.

Awarded to Minders of Tuggeranong Homestead Inc.

citynews.com.au

Trust Council Awards • Ngunnawal Night Tales – Wildbark Fire Pit and Interpretation Program project, winner in the First People’s Heritage category.

Awarded to Andy O’Meara, Lauren Brown, Richie Allan, Richard Allan Jnr, Project Coordination, Innovative Metalworks, Fire by Design, ACT Heritage.

• Play On: From Grassroots to Glory Project, winner in the Heritage Education and Promotion category. Awarded to project leads Mikaela Danvers, Stephanie Trimble, Ashley Harrison and students.

• Digital Heritage: Collaborative Research and Promotion Project, winner in the Heritage Research Tool or Resource category.

Awarded to Trevor Lipscombe and Tony Maple, on behalf of Canberra and Region Heritage Researchers.

• Ken Charlton AM: Winner of the Lifetime Achievement Award • Nick Swain: Winner of the Outstanding Advocacy Award

About the Awards The National Trust’s Heritage Awards recognise projects and individuals that make a significant contribution to the conservation of the heritage of the ACT. Any project which promotes the conservation of, or fosters public knowledge about places, objects and issues that are significant to the heritage of the ACT is encouraged to be nominated.

Nominations for the 2024 National Trust Heritage Awards will be sought in mid-2024.

Proud supporters of the 2022 Heritage Awards

The National Trust receives support and funding from the ACT Government

www.nationaltrustact.org.au

CityNews December 7-13, 2023 11

POLITICS / covid

A little care can mean a much merrier Christmas VACCINATION against the most recent variant of COVID-19 has been available in Australia from the beginning of December.

Complacency over COVID-19 has been part of the problem in preventing the spread of the disease. Since May the World Health Organization has downgraded its warnings so that this disease is no longer considered a “public health emergency of international concern”.

However, in recent weeks there are increasing numbers of people being hospitalised with COVID-19 and increasing numbers who are being treated in intensive care.

As there is no longer a requirement to report a positive Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) and it is difficult to get a PCR blood test, hospital numbers are amongst the main indicators of an increasing surge of the disease.

The good news is, thanks to vaccination and better treatment, the number of deaths from COVID-19 is at its lowest level since the start of the pandemic.

The last thing we need is for a public health emergency declaration to be made in 2024. Unfortunately, information from the Australian Department of Health indicates an increasing spread of the latest variant of COVID-19.

The statistics include the impact on

“Christmas is time to be aware that the threat of COVID-19 spreading ought not to be taken lightly.” hospitalisation and cases in aged-care homes. They also include numbers of deaths and prescriptions for treatment of COVID-19.

We now know that the current impact of COVID-19 is similar to this time in 2022, just before a significant rise in the number of cases over the holiday period.

Some will argue that COVID-19 is only a problem for older people. This is based on the knowledge that most people who are hospitalised are elderly.

Unfortunately, ageism is alive and well, unlike those sick people who have caught the latest variant of the disease.

Complacency in the population has resulted in discarding masks and

social distancing. Awareness of the importance of not going into the work environment when feeling sick is also waning. The idea of “soldiering on” means an increase in colleagues also becoming ill.

Anecdotally, I do note that more men are washing their hands when using public toilets than was the case before 2020 when the pandemic was treated as a public health emergency.

Christmas is time to be aware that the threat of COVID-19 spreading ought not to be taken lightly. There is no need for harsh measures such as compulsory wearing of masks in public, or lockdowns as experienced in 2020-21. However, sensible precau-

Concerned about how you were treated?

tions are worthwhile.

The Australian government has announced the availability of the latest immunisations from the beginning of December with a choice of vaccines made by Pfizer or Moderna. The availability of vaccines and the high level of vaccination are key reasons that COVID-19 is no longer a public health emergency. We need to keep it that way.

Part of the good news is that this vaccination is available from pharmacies. This is usually cheaper and more efficient than having to go to the GP – although that alternative is available.

Just as it is normal to have a flu jab annually, it is important to keep up a regular jab against new variants of COVID-19. The number of people having a booster jab did drop off through the middle of this year – but is once again on the increase.

Keeping a RAT test handy does help to understand the likelihood of being infected. Associate Professor Hassan Vally provided the answer to four questions about RAT tests that was published in “CityNews” recently. His article provides a good understanding of the use of these tests.

Most importantly, a positive RAT

test places the responsibility on a person to prevent spreading the disease further. Staying at home, wearing a mask, practicing good hygiene and maintaining social distancing are all part of that responsibility. A person with a positive test should also seek appropriate antiviral treatment.

The Australian Department of Health provides advice on how to rapidly access antiviral treatment.

This advice includes women who are pregnant and those with certain preexisting medical conditions and older people. Where appropriate, antiviral treatment ought to be started within five days of contracting COVID-19.

The earlier the treatment the better.

With the holiday season approaching, a little bit of care can mean a much merrier Christmas for everyone.

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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citynews.com.au

THE GADFLY / sport

Sport’s the answer, no matter what the question SPORT! It really is our species’ best invention. And it’s getting better all the time.

Indeed, in these dark days of climate change and the deepening threat of social collapse, it might well be the one pathway that sees us through the crisis.

“What about the legal system or parliamentary democracy itself,” I hear you cry. “Surely, they outweigh mere recreation as our premier communal achievement?”

If that’s what you think, then you haven’t been paying attention.

The competitive legal system is now a plaything of the wealthy; while governance across the Pacific and spreading over great swathes of Europe and Asia is fast being corrupted by extremists and warmongers.

But in a year when nationalism then religion turned whole nations into horrific killing fields, sport provided the perfect antithesis.

Teams and individuals spent it meeting on green fields and in stadiums of all shape and size, indoor and out. They gave of their best to the delight and disappointment of their fans.

And when the contest was done, participants and spectators alike returned to their homes until they could again test their will and their skill against their opponents.

While women play the team sports of cricket and the footy codes under the same rules as the males, they bring to all sport a grace and a geniality that is still too often missing in the men’s game.

The Aboriginal cricket team at the MCG in 1868.

We like to say Australia is a sporting nation and maybe while the rest of the world was making iron to hammer out swords and spears, our Aboriginal forebears were sewing an animal skin full of dry grass to make the forerunner of a Sherrin footy.

Today AFL is the most popular native team sport in the land. And fittingly, it was an Aboriginal cricket team that first toured England in 1868.

By then, of course, the Greeks had long since understood the social value of sport with their invention

of the Olympic Games. In 776 BC one Koroibos, a professional cook, won a foot race over 600 feet (183 metres).

The Greeks from city states as far away as Spain and Turkey thereafter would assemble every four years at Olympia to test their skills and celebrate their victories for at least the next 12 centuries.

However, sport’s inherent power of respect and rapport was a long time reaching the fruition that beckons today. The modern Olympics from 1896 failed dismally to prevent the murderous chronicle of the 20th century.

INDEPENDENTLY OWNED AND OPERATED

Keeping it local

But with every passing decade since – particularly as television captured spectators in the multibillions worldwide – the potency of the sporting contest has grown exponentially.

Its organisers have realised that its strength depends on the Australian concept of the “fair go” so there’s a ruthless policing of performanceenhancing drugs, and a place for all-comers, from across the sexes to the gradation of the disabled.

The Paralympics came first but it’s the wholesale participation of women in every code of sporting endeavour that is revolutionising the appeal of the great invention.

Indeed, while women play the team sports of cricket and the footy codes

under the same rules as the males, they bring to all sport a grace and a geniality that is still too often missing in the men’s game. But it’s catching on. The ritual male handshakes at the final siren or when the last ball is bowled, or the last three-pointer popped through the basket, are more genuine these days.

The goodwill is spreading. When the Matilda’s bowed out of the World Cup semis, we were all disappointed, but it wasn’t the end of the earth.

When we beat the Indians in the ODI final, we cheered Pat Cummins and the lads, but we knew that luck was on our side as well. And when we beat the Palestinians in the qualifying soccer match our lads donated part of their fees to their opponent’s cause.

And no one died at the hands of another. robert@robertmacklin.com

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WHIMSY

Contemplating ponderances and observations “PONDERANCE” is a noun that refers to the state or quality of being in deep thought or contemplation. Written ponderances are usually anonymous – otherwise they would be quotations.

Meanwhile, an “observation” is a statement based on something one has seen, heard, or noticed. In humour it is often apocryphal (ie, not based on actual events – but then, of course, it might be!).

Some examples are below. I leave you to be the judge of what’s profound and worth deeper contemplation, and what’s merely a casual observation you can quickly pass over.

Oregon has implemented restrictions on single-use plastic straws to reduce their environmental impact. It has also decriminalised the use of cocaine.

(Both true.) So cocaine is now legal in Oregon but straws aren’t. That must be very frustrating for cokeheads.

Confusingly, “take out” can relate to food, dating or murder. It’s prudent to know which is which.

For paranoid people, Plan A is to check under the bed for murderers. If you find one, what’s your Plan B? How did doctors come to the conclusion that exercise prolongs life? The rabbit is active and lives for nine years;

The last 10 per cent of a tube of toothpaste typically lasts as long as the first 90 per cent. the tortoise isn’t and lives for 200.

If only vegetables smelled as good as bacon.

Anyone who says their wedding day was the best day of their life has clearly never had two chocolate bars drop down for one payment at a vending machine.

We live in an age where intelligent people are silenced so that stupid people aren’t offended.

A modern irony is that computers now ask humans to prove they’re not robots.

Many older people feel it’s weird to be the same age as old people.

It would be nice for once to have a username and password prompt that said “Close Enough”.

If Adam and Eve were Cajuns, they would have eaten the snake instead of the apple and saved us all a lot of trouble.

You know you’re getting old when “friends with benefits” means having someone who can drive at night.

Weight loss goal: to be able to clip one’s toenails and breathe at the same time.

For those that don’t want Alexa or Siri listening in to their conversations, they making a male version that doesn’t listen to anything.

When someone gets a present labelled, “From Mum and Dad”, they know darn well dad has no idea what’s in it.

Someone said: “Nothing rhymes with orange.” But that’s not true.

The pessimist complains about the wind; the optimist expects it to change; the realist adjusts his (or her) sails.

There’s a fine line between a numerator and a denominator. Only a fraction of people would find that curious.

Reading gives you somewhere to go when you have to stay where you are.

When you’re a kid, you don’t realise you’re also watching your mum and dad grow up.

The degree to which a person hates mosquitoes is dependent on how much mosquitoes love them.

Most people use their driving licence to buy things that impair their ability to drive.

You can know someone for years and still not know what colour their eyes are.

Babysitters are teenagers who behave like grown-ups so that grown-ups can go out and behave like teenagers.

Something for fast food lovers to look forward to: a McDonald’s on Mars would be open 24 hours and 39 minutes a day, 687 days a year.

A different version of you exists in the minds of every person who knows you.

If a morgue worker dies, they’ll still

need to come into the office one last time.

“Let sit for two minutes” is definitely the most ignored instruction among microwave users.

Your face is a combination of thousands of years’ worth of other people’s faces.

The last 10 per cent of a tube of toothpaste typically lasts as long as the first 90 per cent.

Our son woke up determined to drink less, eat right and exercise. But that was this morning when he was younger and more ambitious.

Some of my friends exercise daily.

Others, by contrast, are watching a TV program they don’t like because the remote fell on the floor.

Exercise clearly helps with decisionmaking. I went for a run this morning and decided I’m never doing it again.

Last night the internet stopped working so I spent a few hours with my family. They seemed like nice people.

Clive Williams is a Canberra columnist.

Hearing Loss the invisible disability

Do you often ask people to repeat themselves?

Do you have difficulty following conversation when there is too much background noise?

Can you hear the door bell or the phone ring?

Can you hear the Smoke Alarm when you are asleep?

Do you turn up the volume on the TV or radio that others find too loud?

Can help and Support You On Your Hearing Loss Journey www.actdrc.org.au

14 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

hearinghelp@actdrc.org.au

(02) 6287 4393

citynews.com.au

LETTERS

Let loose to: editor@citynews.com.au

Never mind fixing roads, we’ve got the tree police!

THE tree police have just arrived. One of the stupidly placed random gum trees went “missing” across the road.

It was placed so that when it grew bigger, the neighbour would get no winter sun into their house therefore they would have to turn on the heating and make a bigger “footprint” in the neighbourhood.

Maybe it should have been a deciduous tree and they could have kept it. The government car had a yellow flashing light and the occupant was wearing an orange high-vis jacket on a quiet neighbourhood street.

They recorded whatever necessary information was needed, took a few photos and then off to the next house where a tree had gone “missing”.

We can’t get roads fixed, footpaths fixed, hospitals to run efficiently etcetera, but we sure need the tree police!

Ron Leicht, via email

Last thing is to increase demand SEVERAL letters in recent editions of “CityNews” have helped spread disbelief in the comical line that decriminalising/legalising dangerous mind-altering drugs will have little adverse effect on drug consumption.

To oversimplify for purposes of example, stand on a street corner day and night and hand out lollies and chocolates either free or at the lowest street price and see if the consumption of confectionery jumps. Common sense dictates that if not enough drugs smuggled in by gangs are being captured, then the last thing to do is to increase demand for use through legalisation.

Colliss Parrett, Barton

Why a by-election is the only fair way “SOME will argue that a candidate with just three per cent of the primary vote ought not be able to be elected,” wrote columnist Michael Moore (CN November 23) about the election by countback of Greens member Laura Nuttall to the ACT Assembly.

There’s concern that allowing candidates with very low percentages to be elected could undermine the perceived legitimacy of the elected officials.

Some believe that representatives should

offered was a confidential meeting with a single board member, who was not authorised even to make recommendations to the board.

I have had no response to my request for an appeal to be decided, in accordance with natural justice, by someone independent of the original decision-maker.

Leon Arundell, Downer

‘Labelling’ is not helpful, it’s hurtful

dose of dorin have a substantial level of support to be considered as truly representing the will of the people. Candidates with extremely low percentages elected may raise concerns about the effectiveness and stability of governance.

Officials with higher levels of support are more likely to be effective in representing their constituents and making decisions.

Allowing candidates with very low percentages to be elected could, in some cases, result in individuals with extreme or fringe views holding public office.

The Greens are a good example and this could be a concern for those who believe that elected representatives should reflect more mainstream perspective, especially due to the changes in the past three years The by-election system in my opinion is the only fair and just way to cater for the will of the people.

Errol Good, Macgregor

A small minority of households use wood for home heating (10 per cent or less), and yet the entire population in that same airshed is exposed to the harmful effects and cannot easily escape breathing it in.

The link between wood-heater smoke and adverse health outcomes has been reported in the scientific literature and by national and international agencies such as the World Health Organization for more than two decades.

A good overview is the human health section of the ACT Environment Commissioner’s 2023 report on wood heaters.

Another example. An important recent study involving 50,000 women in the US finds that using an indoor wood heater or fireplace increases women’s risk of developing lung cancer by 43 per cent compared with those that do not use wood heating.

Murray May, Cook

Smoke harms evidence overwhelming

Expelled from the working group

MALCOLM Sherren (Letters, CN November 23) argues for critical thinking skills and sound reasoning. Yet his letter exhibits the very reverse, suggesting that wood-smoke pollution is akin to fear-based “contaminants of the mind”.

In reality, there is now overwhelming evidence of the health harms from wood-smoke pollution. A NSW government publication summarising the findings of the Sydney Air Quality Study states that residential wood heaters top the list of emission sources, with health costs of more than $2 billion annually.

HOW can the ACT government justify giving public funds to the Conservation Council?

In February, I was told that, because I had written a “CityNews” article, “Let’s build bus rapid transit to Woden”, I had been expelled from the Conservation Council’s Transport Working Group and I was no longer permitted to contact any member of any Conservation Council working group, or to enter the council’s premises.

Contrary to natural justice, that decision had been made without informing me that it was being considered.

I asked to resolve the dispute. All I was

IN response to Vi Evan’s (Letters, CN November 16), I too feel the same way as Janine Haskins (Letters, CN November 23), appalled and offended by Vi labelling people who are drug dependent on substances as “druggies”.

This is, because I, too, watched my beautiful and sensitive son become dependent on illicit substances while he suffered from a mental disorder and mental illnesses. He also is no longer here to defend himself.

There are many stories behind the tragedy of “succumbing to the tentacles of dependency” for many people and “labelling” them is not helpful, it’s hurtful.

Caterina Brice, Nicholls

Important articles, thank you ARTICLES like that of legal columnist Hugh Selby’s on the presumption of innocence (CN October 30) are important for the information they provide the public with critical thinking and awareness of issues.

Many thanks for publishing articles like these.

Robert Laine via email

With God on ‘our’ side, no matter the side ROBERT Macklin’s nail-on-the-head hitting is becoming as accurate as the best local chippie (CN November 9).

As Rob says, it seems force is the only solution to the Middle-East crisis because each side is relying on religious teachings to justify their determination to wipe out the other.

As I read recently, it is a shaky proposition to include biblical injunctions as evidential criteria for waging endless war. Yet, as Rob says, that’s exactly what’s happening.

We might distinguish the creator/

instructor as God, Yaweh or Allah (I include Christians for obvious historical reasons) but the irony is the three identities must be one and the same.

How do we arrive at the logic of that? The answer is simple, you can justify anything if you can find passages in your particular text that may be interpreted as justifying your consequent actions, however catastrophic they may be.

How convenient, because none of the texts, the Torah, the Bible or the Koran, require normal evidence-based authentication of the primary sources of the alleged teachings, ie, proof of the existence of God, whatever you choose to call him (sic).

Sadly, that leaves us with the same dilemma we have been facing for centuries – the idea that God is on “our” side and against the other no matter which side we happen to be on.

Eric Hunter, Cook

Macklin makes two unsettling comments IN his “The Gadfly” column “Winds of a religious war know no boundaries” (CN November 30) Robert Macklin makes two very unsettling comments.

After comparing the burden of US President Joe Biden to that of Abraham Lincoln, Mr Macklin looks to the very likely contest between an ageing – and some say showing early signs of dementia – Joe Biden and Donald Trump, “whose vision of presidential governance is self-aggrandisement and revenge”.

I would add “feeding his insatiable ego” and “indulging in dangerous delusions”.

In my opinion, a Trumpian second coming would be a disaster for America.

The second unsettling comment is Richard Marles’ preference for being addressed as Deputy Prime Minister rather than Defence Minister, which he no doubt regards as a lower rank.

Macklin regards this trait as “ominous”. I agree: I have long thought from just looking at the body language, let alone some of his public utterances, that Mr Marles covets Anthony Albanese’s job, with its status and power.

Were Marles to realise his ambitions, having “swallowed the Pentagon perception whole”, I would fear that Australia could be just another vassal state of the US. Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin

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49 Jardine Street, Kingston | kingstonnaturaltherapies.com.au | Phone 6295 6660 CityNews December 7-13, 2023 15

SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

Locals make learning fun for the summer holidays WHETHER it’s enjoying the outdoors, getting indoors and learning something new or just sitting back and enjoying a show – keep the children busy with our summer school-holiday guide.

This week “CityNews” rounds up some of the Canberra region’s best activities that the kids can enjoy over the summer holidays.

Stimulating and engaging holiday care

Gymnastics, great for building skills

CAPITAL Regional Community Services is a non-profit, community-based organisation that provides a wide range of programs and services to communities across the ACT and broader capital region, says marketing and communication manager, Angel Hellyer.

“We understand the importance of quality schoolholiday care for both children and their parents and carers,” Angel says.

“For children, it helps them feel connected and make friends while they may not have regular contact with their usual school peers.

“It also continues and builds upon their learning throughout the school year, and maintains a sense of routine.

“They help parents and carers continue to work, or just have a bit of a break, while knowing their children are safe and having a great time.

“Our school holiday programs are packed with engaging and fun activities for the children and planned activity calendars are available from our website.

“As a not-for-profit organisation, we are all about community.

“Our warm and welcoming educators embed connections with our local communities within our services.

“Our caring team of qualified educators provides safe and supervised fun and education.

“With a focus on middle-childhood development, we provide a stimulating and engaging curriculum.

GYMNASTICS is a great holiday activity, says Zoe West, coach of the not-for-profit Canberra City Gymnastics Club.

“Not only are they getting some energy out, there are kids of all ages coming. Lots of kids make friends, they make memories and learn about gymnastics,” she says.

“Gymnastics is also great for practising co-ordination and other skills.”

Zoe says the club has been open since 1978 with the mission to spread gymnastics for everyone of all ages and types.

The club is running a dedicated holiday gymnastics program, December 18-22 and throughout January,

with games, craft and free time.

“Drop-off is at 8.30am, they will do a couple gymnastics circuits throughout the day with accredited gymnastics coaches,” says Zoe. Morning and afternoon tea is provided.

Prices for the school holiday program are $90 for one day, $176 for two days, $255 for three days, $332 for four days and $80 per day for bookings of more than five days.

Pick-up is at 5.30pm, says Zoe. Canberra City Gymnastics Club, 85 Chandler Street, Belconnen and 196 Mouat Street, Lyneham.

Call 6251 1131 or visit canberracitygymnastics.com.au

“We develop our program of planned and structured learning experiences in response to children’s needs, interests and choices.

“Our services offer safe spaces for children to explore, create and grow.”

Capital Region Community Services, Belconnen Community Centre, 23 Swanson Court, Belconnen.

Call 6264 0200 or visit crcs.com.au

School holiday programs Charnwood | Florey | Cooma

Check out our planned activities:

Community-centred activities for children from preschool to Year 6.

Enrol your child today.

02 6264 0200 | www.crcs.com.au 16 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

citynews.com.au

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Accredited Driving Instructor Registered with Access Canberra

Vincent offers the gift of driving ALL driving-lesson bookings made with AUS-Drive in December will receive $5 off, says Vincent Tan, owner and driving instructor of AUS-Drive.

“My approach is to develop good habits and better situational awareness in my students,” he says.

“On top of ensuring students are able to achieve the competencies and standards set out by governing authorities, I also train them in three specific areas; developing good driving habits, maintaining good observation of surroundings and being able to anticipate possible hazards.

“My aim is to equip our young road users with the essential skills and correct mindset for when they are driving on their own.

“Students have benefited a lot from my experience and insights.”

Vincent says he has parents who have said that they are impressed with how their teenage child has become the “safety ambassador” during their road trips.

He has a history of training soldiers in vehicular operations and despite only launching AUS-Drive in September, he has nearly reached the milestone of helping 100 students get their provisional driver’s licence, he says.

“I take pride in providing a clean and hygienic environment for learning,” says Vincent.

“Students can use this chance to book lessons through to the next year.”

AUS-Drive. Call 0434 117896 or visit aus-drive.com.au

DRIVING LESSONS

Charlotte Wilson

C 1 review

A place where people come for fun FLIP Out Majura Adventure Park is more than just a trampoline arena, says manager Christina Vasiliou.

“We are a local, family-owned business with 30-plus years of experience in family entertainment,” she says.

“We are all about community and have a great understanding of our local patrons.

“We are a place where people come for fun, to move their bodies, to learn new skills and challenge themselves in a safe, supportive environment.

“It is a great and fun place to bring the kids to burn off energy and meet up with their friends or family in an exciting environment.”

These school holidays Flip Out Majura will be offering two different packages, says Christina.

“When you purchase a ‘Slushy Package’ you receive a filled, limited-edition slushy bottle,”

she says.

Packages include a one-hour session with a filled slushy for $23, or a two-hour session with a filled slushy for $32, says Christina.

“Bring the bottle back again during the school holidays and receive a free refill per entry,” she says.

Christina says Flip Out Majura Adventure Park will also be offering limited edition Flip Out Thongs.

This package includes a pair of limited edition Flip Out thongs with a one-hour session for $28, or a pair of limited edition Flip Out thongs and a two-hour session for $36, says Christina.

Flip Out Majura Adventure Park, 13 Mustang Avenue, Majura. Call 5133 7777 or visit flipout.com.au/majura

2 days ago

NEW

I have really enjoyed all my driving lessons with Vincent!

He is very supportive and helpful especially for beginner drivers. His wisdom has definitely allowed me to become more confident on the road and I would 100% recommend him to anyone looking for a driving instructor!

Holidays Special! $5 discount for all lessons booked within December 2023* *Discount will be applied at check out

Call 0434 117 896 aus-drive.com.au

Available until 31st Jan (or until stock runs out)

citynews.com.au

CityNews December 7-13, 2023 17

SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Explore the new Museum of the Riverina

Fun and affordable activities for young people

FOR museum manager Luke Grealy, the Museum of the Riverina is one of the best regional museums in Australia.

“It’s big, it’s well-curated, it’s got lots of great stories and lots of interactive digital technology,” he says.

“We’re particularly proud of the First Nations, Wiradjuri gallery.

“There are some extremely rare wooden objects, spears and clubs and things that come from this area.

“It was an Australian first when the Australian museum in Sydney returned these objects to country, to us.

“It was a great vote of confidence in what we were doing as a regional museum.

There are eight themed galleries in this new museum with free activities during the school holidays, says Luke.

“These summer holidays the museum will be running a number

FINDING affordable and fun things to do for young people can be a challenge, says engagement officer with Northside Community Service, Maddison Cater.

“Which is why Northside Community Service is providing some great programs and activities during the summer school holidays,” she says.

“The School Holiday Program runs January 15-26, and has a range of different options for 12 to 25-year-olds.”

Maddison says two free first aid and CPR course and qualification training sessions are available, helping to develop important life and safety skills.

“There’s a pool competition and drop-in at the newly reopened Gunners Place in Gungahlin,” she says.

of free drop-in activities including animal origami, collaborative art, bird of the year colouring in, postcard making, badge making and a Wii sporting hall of fame,” he says.

“Visitors can also enjoy free icy poles to cool down during January.

“There will be free, family-friendly tours on Saturdays at select times and a hat-making workshop on Fridays. The hat-making workshop is $10 per hat and bookings are essential. Bookings are preferred for the free family tours as well.

“On the Sundays of January 7 and 14, the Museum Station will also be open for free to ticket holders arriving on the Willans Hill Miniature Railway.”

Museum of the Riverina, Lord Baden Powell Drive, Wagga Wagga.

Call 6926 9654, or visit museumriverina.com.au

Adelong Falls.

Lots to see and do in the Snowy Valleys SNOWY Valleys Council’s tourism and marketing officer Miki McPherson says if anyone’s stuck for ideas on what to do during these school holidays, why not plan a trip to the Snowy Valleys region?

“This incredible destination is just two hours from Canberra, and has more to see and do than you can do in a day trip,” she says.

“It’s a region filled with plenty of nature, landmarks, history and adventure.”

Explore the Tumbarumba to Rosewood Rail Trail and stop into the must-see Paddy’s River Falls,” she says.

“Quench your thirst on a variety of award-winning beverages, whether your drink of choice is a

cool-climate wine, gin, cider or craft beer, it can all be found right here,” she says.

“Yarrangobilly Caves and thermal pool are a must see while you’re here, located in the Kosciuszko National Park.

“Adelong Falls is another place to make a stop at, just 20 minutes from Tumut’s town centre.

“The Snowy Valleys Sculpture Trail runs through the majority of the Snowy Valleys.

“Or, pick your own apples in Batlow, or grab some delicious cherries ahead of Christmas, but get in quick as these sure won’t last long.”

“Finally, we’re running a fix n’ ride bike workshop, where you can drop in and get your bike fixed and tuned-up for free.”

Maddison says it’s important to keep an eye on the Northside Community Service website though, because some activities and events require registration and have closing dates.

“Northside is a safe and inclusive space for all, so drop in and connect with us and other young people in the community,” she says.

“There’s a lot happening for everyone, and will continue during school terms.”

Northside Community Service, 2 Rosevear Place, Dickson. Call 6171 8000 or visit northside.asn.au

Snowy Valleys. Call 6941 2509 or visitsnowyvalleys.au

MoR Summer Holiday Programs January 2024

Botanic Gardens site MUSEUM OF THE RIVERINA

Cool off at the Museum of the Riverina with workshops, tours and free activities for all ages Join us for everything from MoR Sunsafe Hat Making Workshops to free drop-in activities like the MoR Wii Sporting Hall of Fame. Stay cool with free icy poles, water and sunscreen and even hop off the Willans Hill Miniature Railway at the famous Museum Station. There’s something for everyone at the Museum of the Riverina this summer.

Visit for full program details: museumriverina.com.au (02) 6926 9654 Lord Baden Powell Drive WAGGA WAGGA NSW

18 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

citynews.com.au

advertising feature

Crime through Australian history museum OPENED in 2005, the Cooma Correctional Museum offers the history of Australia through correctional eyes, says statewide museum manager Andrew Weglarz.

“We show the history of corrections in Australia starting from the First Fleet, up until today,” he says.

“On November 1 we celebrated our 150th anniversary, we’re the oldest working jail in Australia.

“People should come and visit us as a big-city museum in a rural setting, we’re only slightly off the main road.

“We have a working gallows, people can use a real trap-door, but we also have fire trucks and tractors from history.”

Andrew says they have serving minimum-security prisoners working as guides.

“We have done risk assessments with them, and they are coming to the end of serving their time,” he says.

“In 1957, a minister put all offenders who identified as homosexual into Cooma Jail, until reforms in 1984, so we have that history, too.

“We also have a show of Aboriginal history.

“We’ve received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor, and some absolutely fantastic reviews.”

Andrew says he has been doing this work for eight years, having previously worked as a senior prison officer in the UK and in Canberra.

“My passion is the privilege I have been given to tell Australia’s history,” he says.

“I also set up displays in the reception area of some other correctional facilities, too.”

Cooma Correctional Museum, 2 Vagg Street, Cooma.

Call 6452 5974, or visit correctiveservices.dcj.nsw.gov.au

VISIT THE STATE CORRECTIONAL MUSEUM

COOMA

Floggings. Gallows. Escapes.

Free guided tours.

Bring the kids – they’ll love it!

8.30am to 3.00pm, every day (except Christmas)

SUMMER SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM 15 - 26 JANUARY 2024

Northside provides free school holiday programs and events for people aged 12-25

2 Vagg St, COOMA (next to the jail)

Plenty of parking.

Fix N’ Ride Bicycle Workshop

First Aid / CPR Course

Gunners Place Youth Space

Scan to find out more >> citynews.com.au

COOMA print ad 145x129mm 291123.indd 1

29/11/2023 3:08:37 PM

CityNews December 7-13, 2023 19

CHRISTMAS GIFT GIVING

Lots of inspiration for terrific Christmas gifts It’s time to get that gift shopping done!

With only a few weeks left, time’s running short to start or start finalising that Christmas shopping!

“CityNews” has done some of the legwork and found some great Christmas gift options.

Pamper the ones you love these holidays

Blow your own Christmas baubles.

Handcrafted gifts of glassware CANBERRA Glassworks is “unique” for its international reputation of amazing glass artists who work here in Canberra, says Aimee Frodsham, Canberra Glassworks artistic director.

Over the holiday period, Canberra Glassworks will run a limited series of short glass-blowing classes.

“Visitors can blow their own set of glass baubles to put on or under the tree on the weekends leading up to Christmas,” says Aimee.

“By shopping at the Glassworks Gallery Shop, visitors are supporting the artists working here and buying handcrafted glassware and artworks made with love.”

Canberra Glassworks is the largest glass-making facility in the southern

QUINTESSENCE nail and beauty in Belconnen is offering gift vouchers, skin care kits, gift sets, makeup sets, handmade earrings, candles, diffusers and more for the holiday season, says owner Alicia Fragopoulos.

“We are a one stop beauty shop for all beauty needs,” she says.

“We provide waxing and tinting services, manicures and pedicures, massages, facials, tanning, laser hair removal, lash extensions, lash lifts, henna brows, brow lamination, teeth whitening and spa packages.”

Alicia says she loves the feeling of being

pampered and relaxed, and purchased the business in 2016 to provide the same kind of escape for others.

“Every day brings different treatments, clients and conversations. It’s very rewarding to see clients leaving happy, fresh and relaxed.”

“We are professional, caring and kind and enjoy making people look and feel good,” she says.

Quintessence nail and beauty, 2/9 Page Place, Page. Call 6278 5334, or visit beautysalonbelconnen.com.au

hemisphere, with dedicated artists’ working in contemporary glass art, craft and design, says Brooke McEachern, Canberra Glassworks marketing manager.

“Take home gifts from some of Australia’s leading glass artists from the studios of Canberra Glassworks,” says Brooke.

“Whether it’s a decanter set with a previous life as a wine bottle or one of our signature, hand-blown platters, these presents will not only stand out under the Christmas tree but also bring delight and awe to your holiday celebrations.”

Canberra Glassworks, 11 Wentworth Ave Kingston Canberra. Call 6260 7005 or visit canberraglassworks.com

Gift vouchers

Tanning | Spa Packages | Manicures | Pedicures Laser Hair Removal | Bio Sculpture Gel Nails Body Treatments | Facials | Waxing & Tinting Lashes | Makeup www.beautysalonbelconnen.com.au 02 6278 5334 quintessencenailandbeauty@iinet.net.au Shop 2/9 Page Place, Page Shopping Centre

20 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

citynews.com.au

advertising feature Knitwear made with a passion for perfection BERRIMA’s Natural Australia promotes the Australian Merino industry by showcasing the highest quality merino knitwear in fashionable garments, says owner Angela Rodgers.

“Berrima’s Natural Australia was opened in 1995 by my parents,” she says.

“My parents were retired sheep graziers from south-west Queensland. In those days all garments in the shop were produced from Australian-grown Merino, and designed and made in Australia.”

Angela joined the business in 1996, excited by the qualities of Merino fibre and garments it created.

Berrima’s Natural Australia has a range of fine Merino knitwear, either made in Australia, NZ or Europe, and Merino, possum and silk garments and accessories from NZ, cashmere from Italy and the UK, and Australian cotton in summer, says Angela.

“It is a very exciting experience to discover beautiful knitwear made with a passion for perfection and detail.

My customers often comment that it is a pleasure to walk into the shop and see such beautiful quality garments, made totally with natural fibres.

Angela says that Christmas shoppers can enjoy a 50 per cent discount on some items throughout December.

“There are beautiful linen in wide and straight leg pants, and dresses from Italy,” she says.

“Also, fine cotton, floral printed tops, Australian made silk kaftans which are perfect for a little warm weather, are all 25 per cent off.

“All items are made in ethically operated workshops who employ local staff.

“Quality control is ensured.”

Berrima’s Natural Australia, 11 Old Hume Highway, Berrima.

Call 4877 1598, or visit berrimawool.com

A full size replica cockpit of a Boeing 737-800.

Christmas present that’s sure to take off JET Flight Simulator Canberra has the perfect Christmas gift for anyone who’s ever wanted to fly, says owner Trevor Vickers.

“Visitors get to operate a full-size replica of a Boeing 737-800 cockpit and can choose from 24,000 airports around the world to fly in or out of,” he says.

“Our instructor is there to point out what all the buttons and levers do and when to use them, but it’ll be you that’s doing the flying.

“Sometimes people want to fly over where they’ve been on holiday, others want to do things like fly under the Sydney Harbour Bridge – it’s all possible.”

But that’s not the only experience they’re offering, says Trevor.

“Our new VR Paraglider Simulator offers a great way to experience paragliding without leaving the ground,” Trevor says.

“It’s a fantastic experience. You can see how close

you can land to the target, or conquer the skies with a tomato gun to fire at other paragliders!”

Visitors also have the opportunity for a more fastpaced, virtual reality experience called “ICAROS” which Trevor says is a “completely different way to fly”.

“The way it works is that you lie on a frame and just by shifting your body weight it steers you in the virtual world,” he says.

“The sensation is more like flying with a wingsuit or like you’re Superman. It’s a Superman simulator.”

Whether it’s flying a 737, paragliding over the coast, or soaring through a virtual world, Trevor says there’s multiple booking options on their website, including gift certificates.

Jet Flight Simulator Canberra, 4 Montford Crescent, Lyneham. Call 0438 834026, or visit jetflightsimulatorcanberra.com.au

BERRIMA’S NATURAL AUSTRALIA MERRY CHRISTMAS to all our lovely customers

Huge Pre-Christmas Sale!

50% off highest quality knitwear of Merino, Cashmere, and Possum/Merino/ Silk, for December Christmas shopping.

• Made in Australia, Europe and New Zealand in ethically operated workshops, employing local and well trained staff.

• Quality control is ensured.

25% off beautiful linen shirts, dresses, wide and straight let pants from Italy.

Also, lots of fine cotton floral print tops and silk kaftans.

Cotton tee shirts from $49.00 Open 7 days from 10 am to 5 pm.

Closed Christmas Day & Boxing Day.

Berrimawool.com Ph (02) 4877 1598

citynews.com.au

CityNews December 7-13, 2023 21

CHRISTMAS GIFT GIVING

advertising feature Handmade gifts by Australian artists

Charity night lets Queanbeyan Players say thank you “CHRISTMAS at the B” is the Queanbeyan Players’ annual charity event, says event founder Jenna Hinton.

“It’s an opportunity for our organisation to give back,” she says.

“I think it is very important for organisations to give back where they can.

“We are a community organisation and all of us involved are volunteers, but we also benefit from the community, so we like to be able to help out where we can.

“The event will include a few rounds of trivia and a raffle with prizes for the winners for both.

“We also have musical performances.

“People can expect a really fun night out, with music, games, and some dancing, all in the name of a great cause.

22 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

“Each year we raise money for Motor Neurone Disease NSW. Motor neurone disease, or MND, is the name given to a group of diseases in which the nerve cells controlling the muscles that enable us to move, speak, breathe and swallow undergo degeneration and die.

There will also be performances from the QP Christmas Choir, she says.

“Tickets start from $25, with tables of 10 for $250,” says Jenna.

“Individual tickets are available as well.

“If you can’t get a table of 10, we will put attendees together and it makes a great way to meet new friends.”

Christmas at the B! For tickets, visit theq.net.au

THE Shop at Belco Arts provides the Canberra community with bespoke and handmade gifts, says marketing manager Shan Crosbie.

“We proudly support Australian artists who supply The Shop with a wide range of beautiful ceramics, glassware, jewellery and textile pieces to suit every taste,” she says.

“What sets us apart is our commitment to seeking out unique artwork that you won’t find in Canberra.”

Shan says currently in stock is a range of exquisite nature-inspired jewellery by Budawang Ranges artists, Sky and Jakub of Charleys Forest Silver.

“Our range of stunning hand-forged Damascus Steel chef knives by South Australian artist, Phil Astley will make a perfect gift for the home chef,” she says.

“We also have a selection of affordable pieces from local Canberra artists, including bright and bold earrings from Amy Creative, and mini ceramic houses and bunny brooches from Little Tree Studio.”

Shan says The Shop at Belco Arts will be open until 4pm on December 22.

“Pick up the perfect last-minute gift to make a lasting impression. If you’re shopping online, be sure to order online before Thursday, December 14, to make sure you receive your delivery before Christmas.”

Belco Arts, 118 Emu Bank, Belconnen.

Call 6173 3300, or visit belcoarts.com.au

One of the many gifts available for purchase at “The Shop” at Belco Arts.

citynews.com.au

HOME IMPROVEMENT

advertising feature

Expert tips on how to make a home truly ‘yours’ HOME is where the heart is (as the famous saying goes), so it makes sense to turn that space into something that the homeowner or renter loves being in.

Whether it’s renovating a home to get the best out of a sale, adding some designer furniture, working on the bathroom, kitchen or anything in between, “CityNews” speaks to some of Canberra’s skilled home-improvement experts on how to make a place truly “yours”.

Brent’s got years of flooring knowledge

Time for ‘bright and colourful’ furniture

BRENT Souden first started working as a flooring installer in Canberra 2007, moving here from West Wyalong, NSW, where he learnt the trade from his father and grandfather who have operated their store since 1953, says wife and Soudens Floor Collective business co-owner Lewarna Souden.

“He began as a sub-contractor working for various flooring stores throughout Canberra,” she says.

“Over the years he has grown the business from one person to 11, moving from our home garage Soudens Floor Collective owners Brent and Lewarna to our Fyshwick showroom in March Souden with their children.

2021. experts at every stage of the process – sales, “Our carefully curated showroom has estimation and installation,” she says. thousands of flooring samples on display for “Brent’s experience covers a wealth of our clients to choose from to suit a wide range knowledge that only comes with years of of budgets and styles. dedication to learning the trade, which is also “We’ve created a space that feels warm and uncommon in our industry. inviting and which sparks inspiration.”

“It means he has the practical knowledge Lewarna says they offer residential and and skills to teach our team every aspect of commercial flooring solutions including carpet, flooring with a special focus on floor preparavinyl, hybrid, timber, laminate and polished tion which is ultimately the key to a beautiful concrete. long lasting floor.”

“The business was born out of our desire to provide something no other Canberra stores Soudens Floor Collective, 14/8 Beaconsfield Street, were offering, an end-to-end service with Fyshwick. Call 5134 3970, or visit soudens.com.au

LEADING second-hand furniture store, Ex-Government Furniture, sees home improvements as a recent necessity “now that people spend a lot more time at home”, says co-owner James Fullerton.

He says the business, which has been operating for more than three decades, has become a well recognised part of Fyshwick, offering a wide range of storage, dining and comfort options for any home improver.

“We currently have a wide variety of storage options in stock for sumEx-Government Furniture owners James mer organisation,” he says.

Fullerton, left, and Taylor Radnell.

“Some of the pieces are quite nice, presentable and colourful, “We even have some indoor planter they don’t have to be hidden in the boxes that are pretty cool. garage.

“With ongoing shipments, we are “We have some nice pieces for a home inundated with new items every week, office too, now that it’s become more the and they are one-off, unique pieces of norm. high-end furniture.

“Really, we have a bit of everything at “We provide furniture and accessories the moment.” to help personalise any space. There’s James says Ex-Government Furniture a huge range and we can work with also has a large range of “unique, cool and customers to their budget.” super colourful” designer lounges.

“The designer furniture is really Ex-Government Furniture, 6 Yallourn Street, something special, we have some lounges Fyshwick. Call 6280 6490 or visit that you don’t often see,” he says. exgovfurniture.com

Honest, reliable and affordable FLOORING SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR HOME! Carpet

Vinyl

Timber

Laminate

Hybrid

Polished Concrete

Call (02) 5134 3970 Or visit soudens.com.au Or come see our showroom at Unit 14, 8 Beaconsfield Street Fyshwick (opposite Gold’s gym)

SCAN FOR MORE INFO

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CityNews December 7-13, 2023 23

HOME IMPROVEMENT Transforming properties into ‘dream spaces’ “WE understand that your home is your sanctuary, and we are here to transform your property into your dream space,” says Xhibit Interiors director Nicole Mackay.

“I am incredibly passionate about all things property so I can offer multiple services that complement each other to my clients,” she says.

“I have been doing this kind of work for around 15 years.

“I chose this career path because it’s in my blood.

“Our aim is to breathe new life into our clients’ properties, ensuring it is in optimal condition for living, sale or rent.

“Whether you’re looking to revamp a single room, embark on a larger home renovation or prepare your home for the market, our team of experienced profes-

sionals are dedicated to bringing your vision to life.

“Additionally, we offer beautifully detailed property staging services to local real estate agents and clients to achieve maximum impact and return on properties going to the market.

“Our comprehensive range of property services are also designed to handle every aspect of estate management during a time that can be really difficult.

“We will work with you through this process with empathy and kindness.”

“Our motto at Xhibit Interiors is ‘the magic is in the detail’.”

Xhibit Interiors. Call 0412 481133, or visit xhibitinteriors.com.au

Experienced packers save time and stress THE local team at House to Home are experienced packers who have been helping Canberrans get their property ready for sales, renovations, insurance work, downsizing and relocating for more than 12 years, says co-owner Renee Le Grande.

“Our expert team will save you hours of time and stress by packing all your personal belongings, household items, right through to packing up the shed,” she says.

“Our team offers a personalised service and recognises every client is unique and has different needs and expectations.

“Some people want the kitchen, bathroom and wardrobes packed, others want absolutely everything including the garden pots at the front door.”

Renee says her business also offers a full walk-in walk-out service, where clients hand over their keys and the staff completely clear the property, remove the furniture, take necessary items to a charity store, get the old property cleaned, and set everything up again in the new home.

House to Home. Call 0457 456767 or visit house-to-home.com.au

DOWNSIZING

AND DECLUTTERING

Whether you are preparing for sale, renovations, or making your home safe our expert packing specialists can pack and clear rooms or whole houses quickly and efficiently.

We can organise and provide all packing materials to complete these clearing tasks for those who are busy and unable to complete these tasks in a short time frame.

house-to-home.com.au

info@house-to-home.com.au

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24 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

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PLUMBING

SELECTING the right plant can be a little tricky when it comes to climbers for small spaces.

In most cases, small areas are shady and the soil will most likely be dry, so make sure it’s replenished before putting in any new plants.

Shallow-rooted plants grow better in small spaces, which will minimise root damage to structures and walls nearby. As a bonus, most climbers like to have cool roots and their head growth in the sun.

My favourite choices would be clematis or creeping fig. For flowers, the clematis choices are endless as they are available as evergreens or deciduous, and the flower-colour range is huge.

Some might be too big for a small space, but there are dwarf varieties such as “Rhapsody” with sapphire-blue flowers. It only grows to 2.5 metres tall and can fill a wall with its quick growth in no time.

Another deciduous climber I recommend is “Lowii” or small leaf Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata).

It has the smallest of the leaves from the Boston genus and looks terrific climbing

poles and narrow walls. It grows no more than 10 centimetres and the brilliant red foliage in autumn is spectacular and easy to manage.

But my favourite evergreen climber for a small space would be the creeping fig (Ficus pumila).

It’s a terrific flat, self-clinging plant suitable for a large wall where there’s no space for pots.

If left unpruned, the adult foliage is rather coarse and leathery and can look unsightly.

The old growth can produce yellow/green, pear-shaped fruit that while inedible raw, can be used for making jams and jellies.

Overall, it is the juvenile tiny leaves that this climber is grown for, and its root systems can form a mat and cover the ground easily. It will grow a little rampant, but it’s easy to keep in check by cutting growth with a sharp spade.

“CHINESE Indigo” (Indigofera decora) is a small shrub of the pea family and grows well in the right spot.

Native to China, it gets up to about 60 centimetres and has lovely arching foliage in summer with lilac-pink flowers that resemble wisteria in short racemes.

It likes water, so grow it around wet boggy areas or at the bottom of a hill. It has a suckering habit and can cover an area in no time.

It grows particularly well as an understory

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“Chinese Indigo”... a small shrub of the pea family with lovely arching lilac-pink flowers in summer.

plant, but to get the best out of flowering it needs as much sun as possible. In winter it can be cut to the ground and covered with mulch. It will reshoot in the spring.

There’s a native alternative in Indigofera australis that grows a little larger to two metres.

A self-seeding, single shrub, it doesn’t have a suckering habit. But beware, it’s poisonous to dogs.

WATER vegetable gardens in the earlier part of the day. Water the soil and not the foliage of plants to prevent the sun burning the leaves.

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Jottings…

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Contestants jostle in reallife ‘Squid Game’ drama

INSIDE

NICK OVERALL

Ancient Egyptians, up close and very personal “DISCOVERING Ancient Egypt”, coming soon to the National Museum, is an exhibition with a difference.

Compared to the more exotic-sounding “Ramses & Gold of the Pharaohs” at the Australian Museum in Sydney, this is a look into the way ancient Egyptians lived.

And you won’t have to be an expert to relate to it for, as NMA curator Craig Middleton points out, after Australian troops had served in the Middle East, Egyptian-style obelisks popped up in memorials all around the country, a sign of universal interest.

The Egyptian belief that you can take it with you is front and centre, so there’ll be rich funerary objects and no fewer than five real mummies in the show, including people with names, the women Sensaos and Ta(net)kharu or Tadis and the man Harerem.

When I catch up by phone to Daniel Soliman, curator of the Egyptian Collection at the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (Dutch National Museum of Antiquities) in Leiden, he is inclined to snort at talk of the “discovery” of Egypt, pointing out that Egypt has been there all along.

A career Egyptologist whose PhD from Leiden University saw him living among real necropolis workers at the workmen’s village Deir el-Medina in Egypt, is a keen observer of the way westerners interpret ancient civilisations and says: “This is not just an exhibition about ancient culture, but about why we are interested in ancient Egypt.”

The show, he says, will provide a history of “discovery,” including the work of Arab scholars in the Middle Ages and 17th century European Egyptologists.

But it was only in the 19th century following the campaign of Napoleon and the discovery of the Rosetta Stone by a French soldier, that the publicity started to really get going and when Tutankhamun’s tomb was found in 1922, all things Egyptian became a world sensation.

Napoleon, he notes, was playing geopolitics against the British and the Ottomans when he arrived in 1798, but as well, “he found something grandiose about the Egyptian sense of kingship… the Egyptian pharaohs were equated with the gods and Napoleon tried to emulate some of that style.”

But, he says, the exhibition aims to look at why ordinary people love ancient Egypt so much. Maybe it’s the impressive temples, such as the ancient Nubian Temple of Taffeh and the huge pyramids, still visible and impressive today, but then there’s also the discovery of many untouched items of papyrus writing, still clear and intact.

One such is our cover image “Book of The Dead of Padikhonsu”, the first sheet cut from a long papyrus scroll that the priest Padikhonsu took into his tomb.

Padikhonsu is depicted praising Isis and Osiris on the left and the god Re-Horakhty, perhaps guaranteeing his rebirth in the afterlife.

On a smaller scale, there is grandeur in ornamentation such as the pectoral, worn over the chest, from the New Kingdom, with a heart scarab at its centre.

“We wanted to look at the people who were always there, so we’ve tried to talk about ordinary life through artefacts like musical instruments and implements used for make-up and writing, to give insight,” Soliman says.

Craig Middleton, from the National Museum of Australia, refers to Soliman as the expert, but tells me that the show was originally produced by the Rijksmuseum in partnership with a Japanese museum for a more academic audience, so needed adaptation.

Staff at the NMA, WA Museum and the Queensland Museum have worked hard to give it a broader scope and a more accessible flavour.

“Initially, it was very much an Egyptology exercise involving a lot of museum knowledge… we wanted to make it more suitable for a general audience,” Middleton says.

“And we wanted to make it meaningful for an Australian audience and accessible to children.”

Visitors young and old will first enter through a replica of the Temple of Taffeh, but then, much more fun, they can learn how to mummify their cat, suitable citynews.com.au

1.

2.

3.

1. “ Pectoral” (about 1539-1077 BCE). Pectorals are large pieces of jewellery worn over the chest. This one has a heart scarab at its centre.

2. “ Pyramidion of Pauty” (about 1539-1077 BCE). The relief shows the royal scribe Pauty raising his hands in adoration of two sun gods.

3. A detail from “Book of The Dead of Padikhonsu”, cut from a long papyrus scroll that the priest Padikhonsu took into his tomb.

4. “ Gilded Mask” (about 304-30 BCE). This gilded cartonnage mask was placed over the face of a mummified body.

especially for ages six to eight, but he’s betting adults will be attracted to that, too.

Interviews with local Egyptian people who worked on the ground have been captured in a short video in Arabic with subtitles.

The exhibition for Canberra has been designed by Wendy Osmond using Egyptian blues and red and is quite different from the WA Museum installation, he says.

And for Australia, an audio tour has been voiced

by Australian-Egyptian actress Helana Sawires, best known for her part in the movie, “Ali’s Wedding”.

The exhibition may focus on the belief in preparation for afterlife, and the “discovery” aspects, but, Middleton says: “Australians are now attuned to the debate about colonisation, so what we have done is put western attitudes and beliefs up for examination.

“Don’t forget that we are dealing with an aweinspiring culture going back over thousands of years.

“People will marvel at the engineering of the pyramids and, because of the dry climate, so much material has been perfectly preserved, and the colours are all retained.

“We wanted to look back and discover a truly Egyptian story.”

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“Discovering Ancient Egypt”, National Museum of Australia, December 15-September 8.

CityNews December 7-13, 2023 27

STREAMING

Contestants jostle in real-life ‘Squid Game’ drama IT was only a matter of time before Netflix made a reality version of its smash hit series “Squid Game”.

The bizarre Korean show about contestants who risk their lives in macabre versions of children’s games for a huge cash prize remains the platform’s most watched series ever, even two years after it first released.

Now, there’s “Squid Game: The Challenge”.

In this series, Netflix has remade “Squid Game” but for real-life contestants. No, they aren’t murdered if they lose, like in the original show, thankfully.

Four-hundred and fifty-six competitors from around the world have signed up to take on this major recreation of the haunting contest.

The prize is a whopping $US4.56 million ($A6.92 news), the highest ever cash reward in the history of reality television.

Unsurprisingly, it’s proven another hit with subscribers, but Netflix wasn’t actually the first to cash in on the idea.

Two years ago YouTube star “Mr Beast” used his own channel to create a real life version of “Squid Game”, which managed to rack up 536 million views. A staggering achievement for a YouTube video.

Some of the 456 contestants who took part in “Squid Game: The Challenge”.

No way Netflix wasn’t getting in on that kind of popularity.

From the creepy guards who wear shapes on their faces to the colourful and surreal sets, Netflix has now poured millions into recreating the atmosphere of “Squid Game” right down to the finest of details.

Well, apart from the fact that death isn’t the penalty for being disqualified.

But it seems filming certainly wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows.

Some of the contestants are threatening Netflix and the show’s producers with legal action, claiming they got nerve damage and hypothermia while filming some of the games.

Looks like “Squid Game: The Challenge” might have claimed some kind of victims after all.

THIS month Apple TV Plus has dropped one of streaming’s biggest spectacles yet.

“Monarch: Legacy of Monsters” brings the iconic movie creature Godzilla to the small screen.

Set in the same universe (or “monsterverse” as the producers have so subtly called it) as the recent “Godzilla” and “King Kong”

reboots, this series follows two siblings attempting to uncover their father’s mysterious connection to “Monarch”, an organisation dedicated to containing gigantic monsters that roam the earth.

“Some secrets cannot be contained” the show’s dramatic tagline teases.

What, you mean the hulking, 200-metre-tall secrets that in the other films in this franchise have already made mincemeat out of several major cities? You reckon?

Kurt and Wyatt Russell (a father-son duo both in the show and real-life) co-star in this one, bringing some much-needed heart to a story that scales things down to a TV budget while also trying to hang on to the epic scope of the films.

“The movies are about cities that get destroyed. This is about the people who have been destroyed,” the show’s executive producer Matt Fraction told “The Hollywood Reporter”.

“I think what will bring people back week after week is not necessarily big monster battles. It has to be a group of human beings you follow that journey with.”

It’s a balance the show’s creators have struck remarkably well. The characters have a surprising amount of depth, even if the story itself doesn’t.

Still, fans of the atomic age mega lizard will find plenty to love here in what, if nothing else, can be called a major evolution for blockbuster TV. ALSO making news in the streaming rounds at the moment is “NCIS: Sydney”.

Now streaming on Paramount Plus with eight episodes, this is the first time the hit show has been set in another country, after several spin offs in LA, New Orleans and Hawaii.

Personally, I’ve never been a fan of the weekly formula “NCIS” manages to churn out, but fans of the longrunning TV show will be sure to find something of value.

While we’re here though, what about “NCIS: Canberra” – or better yet, “NCIS: Queanbeyan”.

You’d get one hell of a season out of that!

ARTS IN THE CITY

Here come those fun bears

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IT’S fun time at The Q (December 14-15) with the return of the musical “Goldilocks and the three Bears”.

Aimed primarily at children aged 0-28, it is also suitable for older kids, parents and their teddy bears.

Jim Adamik returns as Daddy Bear, with Jordan Best as Mummy Bear, while Joe Dinn plays Baby Bear; Amy Kowalczuk, Goldilocks and, as the loveable Musical Cow, pianist Leisa Keen. The show travels to Bungendore, December 16 and Braidwood, December 17. Free, but bookings essential to theq.net.au AT the final concert for Art Song Canberra recently, retiring founder and artistic director Oliver Raymond announced the 2024 program and that the committee had elected Roland Peelman to be “honorary artistic director” until its AGM in June. He added that Peelman had said he “wouldn’t mind” being president of Art Song too, but that would have to wait until the AGM. HARRY Connick Jr performs old songs and new at his concerts at the Royal Theatre on December 15 and 16.

THE next Geoff’s Jazz at Smiths concert has a Connick connection too, featuring top US players, including former Connick sax player Jerry Weldon and Neal “Sugar” Caine on bass, with JC Stylles on

Jordan Best as Mummy Bear… The Q, December 14-15.

Photo: Ben Appleton guitar, John Harkins on piano and Andrew Dickeson drums. Smith’s Alternative Civic, December 14.

CANBERRA Choral Society presents “Hodie Christus Natus Est”, a Christmas concert featuring choral music and carols including works

by William Byrd, Josef Rheinberger, Sally Greenaway and an arrangement of a traditional Appalachian carol by music director Dan Walker.

Wesley Uniting Church, Forrest, December 10.

AJ America, Roland Peelman, Luminescence Chamber Singers and friends, Luminescence Children’s Choir, organist Samuel Giddy and harpist Rowan Phemister will pull out all the stops in “A Luminous Christmas”. The rich, three-day program of seasonal music is made up of “Christmas Classics”, December 15; “Christmas Pipes”, December 16; “Navidad: Christmas in Spain”, December 16 and “Dancing Day”, December 17.

Wesley Music Centre, Forrest. citynews.com.au

CINEMA / “Christmess”

Not-so-merry ‘Christmess’ a big-screen winner ‘Christmess’ is undoubtedly one of the best Christmas films to emerge – from anywhere – in recent years, says ARI MATTES. BONA fide Christmas films usually fit into one of the following categories.

There are the sardonic comedies poking fun at the consumerist undertones of the holiday (National Lampoon’s “Christmas Vacation”, “Gremlins”). There are the cheesy, schmaltzy Christmas fantasy films (“The Christmas Star”, “Prancer”) that strain to impart some of that good ol’ Christmas miracle to the viewer. There are the camp, deliberately kitsch bodgy romps such as the Hulk Hogan vehicle “Santa with Muscles”.

And there are the social realist dramas about people just trying to make it through the stress of the period (“Almost Christmas”).

“Christmess”, the latest film from writerdirector Heath Davis, fits firmly in the social realist mode.

Alcoholic ex-film star Chris (Steve Le Marquand) leaves rehab and moves into a halfway house with just over a week until Christmas. Living with his sponsor, Nick (Darren Gilshenan), a self-professed Yulephile, and musician and recovering addict Joy (Hannah Joy), he works hard to get his life on track and secures a job as a Santa at a suburban mall. But various obstacles – such as bumping into his daughter Noelle, estranged for 20 years – impede his efforts.

As he attempts to develop a relationship with his daughter, he discovers, alas, that

despite the optimism of people like his sponsor Nick, simply apologising isn’t always (or even often) enough, even if, as Nick is fond of saying, “Christmas is the time for forgivin’”.

There’s no glorious overcoming or transcendence at the end of the film, and anything that could be interpreted as a “Christmas miracle” is minor to say the least. But there is a definite sense of the development of genuine friendship between the characters, and a sense that the grey world Chris inhabits is at least a few shades warmer by the end of the film (even if, as is so often the case with addicts, macro-level patterns repeat).

Rather than dampening the film, the minor stakes make it a more touching experience – and it is an emotionally engrossing film, satisfying in its combination of melancholy tinged with the vague outlines of hope.

For a low-budget independent film to be successful – and this is a true independent film, which in Australia means no investment from any of the major screen bodies – it needs to be as close to flawless as possible across three fronts.

It needs to look good by embracing a suitable (and usually low-key) aesthetic, it needs to feature excellent actors, and the writing needs to be razor sharp. “Christmess” succeeds in each area.

The performances, particularly by sea-

Steve Le Marquand… effortlessly commands the attention of the viewer in “Christmess”. soned veterans Le Marquand and Gilshenan, are exceptional.

Le Marquand has long been one of Australia’s most underrated stars of stage and screen – watch him in “Two Hands” or “Last Train to Freo” and it’s hard to understand why he hasn’t developed a longer Hollywood resume – and he effortlessly commands the attention of the viewer here.

Gilshenan, best known for television comedies such as “The Moodys” and “Full

Frontal”, is superb as the kind (if a touch sanctimonious) AA sponsor. Hannah Joy, lead singer and guitarist of Middle Kids, breaks up the drama with some beautifully performed songs.

The dialogue is naturalistic, fitting the minor tenor of the film, with some subtle bursts of wry humour punctuating the drama.

“Most Santas aren’t NIDA graduates,” Chris says to his employer. “You’d be surprised,”

she barks in reply.

“I lied,” Chris says to Nick at one point, “I’m an actor and an addict, what’d you expect?”

The cinematography by Chris Bland is excellent – it looks like it’s been shot for cinemas and not streaming, making the most of the wide aspect ratio and long lenses, with the handheld style recalling the imagery of more savage suburban movies such as “Snowtown”.

The film is full of carefully observed details that situate it within a Sydney milieu, capturing the sad banality of so much of suburban life. Unkempt, rubbish-strewn canals, ugly and depressingly empty shopping malls, carefully manicured weatherboard houses – all the stuff they tried to make us forget about during the Sydney Olympics.

“Christmess” lingers in the imagination far longer than most Hollywood-scale productions.

The film’s only weakness – and it’s minor – is the score, which seems a little uninspired but, thankfully, is used minimally.

“Christmess” is an exceptionally well-crafted independent film punching well above its weight in terms of budget. It lingers in the imagination far longer than most Hollywood-scale productions.

It’s undoubtedly one of the best Christmas films to emerge – from anywhere – in recent years.

“Christmess” is in cinemas now.

Ari Mattes, lecturer in Communications and Media, University of Notre Dame Australia. This article is republished from The Conversation.

EXHIBITION

Exposing art of body and heart An exhibition at the National Gallery of Australia looks at representations of the figure by female artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, reports LIZ HOBDAY. “DEEP Inside My Heart” at the National Gallery of Australia takes its name from a print by two big names in the global art world.

Tracey Emin and Louise Bourgeois (a major Bourgeois exhibition has just opened at the Art Gallery of NSW) collaborated on 16 prints in 2009-10, for a series with the overall title “Do Not Abandon Me”.

Bourgeois began the works by painting gouache figures on paper in red, blue and black, and passing them on to Emin, who carried them with her as she travelled the world, too scared to touch them.

Finally Emin added words and tiny fantastical figures, giving meaning to the emotions suggested

by Bourgeois’ silhouettes.

“Do Not Abandon Me” was one of the final artworks Bourgeois completed before she died in 2010, and the National Gallery acquired the series in 2020. (“If Deep Inside My Heart” was one of several contenders for the exhibition title, close inspection citynews.com.au

National Gallery senior curator, International Art, Lucina Ward with “Deep Inside My Heart” works. reveals other titles by the duo would have been far too rude to use.)

The Emin and Bourgeois series sits alongside works by women artists from 1968 until 2018, including a group of early sculptures by late Australian sculptor Bronwyn Oliver.

“They’re like nothing I’ve ever seen, and I suspect nothing you’ve ever seen before,” curator Lucina Ward said.

The bodily inspiration that’s everywhere in Oliver’s sculpture and the exhibition overall is a response to the artists living through a period in which minimalism and materiality dominated the art world, Ward

explained.

As art by women came to the fore in the late ’80s, they began to use the body to make statements about politics, gender, and identity.

“They’re in effect revisiting the idea of what a body can say about what it is to be a woman in contemporary society,” she said.

The exhibition is another step in the NGA’s “Know My Name” project, which aims to improve the national collection’s holdings by women artists.

“Deep Inside My Heart”, National Gallery until May. CityNews December 7-13, 2023 29

DINING / Grazing, Gundaroo

Gundaroo’s got a candidate for the dining bucket list WHEN a restaurant turns 20, especially in these crazy economic times, it’s the perfect opportunity to pop the champagne.

And for multiple award-winning Grazing in Gundaroo, it was a chance to shine the spotlight on a special birthday icons menu.

It was a wonderful meal and although the special menu is no longer available, that shouldn’t stop anyone who worships quality food creations from taking a lovely trip this summer to Grazing for a unique dining experience (only 30 minutes from the heart of Canberra).

Head chef Kurt Neumann owns Grazing with his wife Tanya. They took over in 2011, so the special menu understandably featured dishes throughout the couple’s rewarding time at the helm.

We sat in a small, cozy, charming room, tended by knowledgeable staff who talked confidently about each dish, with pride.

The five-course menu was $125 per

Ocean trout rillettes with dill crème and avocado.

Two-way, local lamb dish… rump on the bottom and a sticky

Photos: Wendy Johnson glazed rib perched on top. person (matched wines $60 pp extra).

The freshly baked bread arrived with a dipping dish of high-quality olive oil and blood plum vinegar from La Barre (Yass). The taste bud dance began …

We oohed and aahed at the look and taste of the ocean trout rillettes with dill crème and avocado. The dish was created with flair and the fried sourdough wafer crisp and so super thin it was transparent.

Next was butterflied king prawn, perked

up with a pipi butter emulsion and an almond picada. The prawn was plump and blessed with fresh, dainty micro herbs decorations. Sensational.

Not everyone is a fan of kangaroo but should try it at a reputable place such as Grazing. This take of loin was ash baked and perched on fetta, candied walnut and wattle seed for essential texture. The beetroot dust created a gorgeous, rich colour. The odd piece of roo was slightly overcooked for

some of us, but the dish overall was a winner.

The two-way, local lamb dish was innovative. On the bottom was the rump, cooked to perfection and melt-in-the-mouth. The sticky glazed rib perched on top was fun and couldn’t have been more tender. The meat

arrived on a creamy kohlrabi and cauliflower mash, as smooth as satin.

Dessert was a masterpiece of burnt honey crème with ginger and orange blossom pear, honey jelly and candied pastry. The honey used is from the bees that Grazing raises and the dish (much to our liking) wasn’t overly sweet.

Grazing’s wine list is built around the best the local area lovingly produces, including from reputable vineyards such as Nick O’Leary, Clonakilla, Eden Road, Lerida Estate, Four Winds, Ravensworth, Gundog Estate and Four Winds.

It’s so worth putting Grazing on the food bucket list. It’s a beautiful blend of country charm and modern approaches. Simply gorgeous.

WINE / Prosecco perversity

It’s a fair dinkum prosecco, seemingly not in Singapore BATTLES over the name prosecco continue. This time the Australian industry has seemingly lost an important case in Singapore.

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30 CityNews December 7-13, 2023

In this country, Australian winemakers are permitted to call the wine made from the grape variety prosecco, a prosecco even though it has been re-named the “glera” grape variety in Italy.

But the right of Australian winemakers to describe their wine as prosecco is under legal challenge and a recent case in Singapore has posed another problem for exporters of the sparkling wine.

Producers of prosecco from the Veneto region in north-east Italy have succeeded in protecting the geographic integrity of the prosecco name within the European Union.

In Australia the protection would be reflected in the legal regime established here that distinguishes particular geographic regions as not being able to be used to describe Australian wines: geographic indication (GI) protection.

So, while sparkling wine produced in Australia can’t be called champagne even when made from the method used in France, because it doesn’t come from that region in France, we can say that prosecco is Aussie because it comes from grapes formerly known as prosecco and is a varietal grown here, mostly in the King Valley, Victoria.

The situation is not comparable with that of champagne, because prosecco didn’t indicate a geographical area until 2009, the same date as the name change to “glera” for the varietal occurred.

So, with this controversy in the background, a recent court decision out of Singapore seems perverse. The Court of Appeal of that island state (its highest court) appears to have said that the term prosecco should be used in Singapore exclusively for wines produced in the specific Italian region.

The judgment is the culmination of long-

Prosecco grapes… re-named the “glera” grape variety in Italy. running legal battles about the registration of prosecco as a GI in Singapore.

The court ruled that while the evidence demonstrated that “prosecco” was objectively the name of a grape variety, Australian Grape & Wine (the industry association fighting for the rights of Aussie producers to use the name) had failed to show that the proposed registered GI is likely to mislead Singapore consumers as to the true geographical origin of the wine.

These findings relate to the fact that the provision of the Singapore legislation contains two tests: in short, if a proposed geographic indicator contains the name of a plant variety and is likely to mislead the consumer as to the true origin of the product, the name cannot be registered.

The court found that while the evidence before it revealed there was growing demand for Australian “prosecco” there was insufficient evidence to show whether Singapore consumers might be aware that “prosecco” is also the name of a grape variety used to make wine of

the same name.

So, perversely, the Italians now appear to have the right to register the name prosecco as coming exclusively from north-east Italy. That seems a bizarre application of the law, especially with the finding of the court that prosecco is the name of a grape variety.

The court’s judgment arises from the second basis of GI protection in Singapore, that is for the benefit of consumers. This second approach to GI protection is connected to unfair competition.

Here, the paramount consideration is whether a valuable reputation exists in the marketplace for a regional product.

The existence of such a reputation can be established through evidence such as sales figures, advertisements or consumer surveys.

Unfortunately, Australian Grape and Wine could not supply sufficient evidence to satisfy this test. Yet if, as the court found, prosecco is in fact objectively a grape variety rather than a GI, then surely that is in itself a reason to not let it be registered as a GI as it will lead to Singapore consumers being misled because prosecco is grown and sourced from Australia not just from Northern Italy?

Australian Grape & Wine commented to me: “There remains uncertainty as to the implications of the judgment on Australian producers’ ability to utilise the term as grape variety in the Singapore market. We are continuing to seek clarity on the issue.”

“The perversity of the Universe tends towards a maximum.” –Larry Niven

citynews.com.au

HOROSCOPE Your week in the stars

By Joanne Madeline Moore

PUZZLES

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General knowledge crossword No. 910

December 11-17, 2023 ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT

Mighty Mars (your power planet) and the fiery New Moon encourage you to focus on your hopes and dreams for the future. The more ambitious your aspirations, the better! You’ll also shun superficial encounters with others, preferring deep and meaningful conversations with family and friends. But remember that Mercury is in retrograde mode from Wednesday until January 2. So smart Rams will try extra hard to be prudent, patient and persistent.

Mel's super puzzle keeps getting worse

TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)

Your ruler Venus is visiting your relationship zone (until December 29) which favours romance, friendships, joint ventures and socialising with work colleagues.

Then Mercury starts reversing through your travel and adventure zones (from Wednesday) so any weekend trips or longer holidays (interstate or overseas) should be planned extra carefully and then rechecked extra thoroughly. On the weekend, friends and finances could be a confusing mix.

GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)

Tuesday night’s New Moon heralds the rebirth of an important relationship of the romantic, platonic or business variety. But remember, Mercury (your ruler) turns retrograde on Wednesday so financial partnerships, tax matters and deep, dark secrets must be handled with extra tact and care. Double-check everything twice!

On the weekend, someone tells you something in the strictest of confidence, but are they telling the truth – and can they be trusted?

CANCER (June 22 – July 23)

It’s a wonderful week to start a new diet or rejig your fitness routine, as proactive Mars and the New Moon activate your health-and-wellbeing zone. Then Mercury starts reversing through your relationship zone on Wednesday, so do your best to surround yourself with interesting, non-flappable people. As birthday great Jane Austen wrote: “My idea of good company is the company of clever, well-informed people who have a great deal of conversation.”

LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)

Tuesday night’s New Moon is all about children, friends and creativity. On Wednesday, Mercury starts reversing through your wellbeing zone. So it’s a suitable week to revise your daily diet and fitness routine, as you choose healthier food options and a form of exercise that you enjoy. On the weekend the Sun (your power planet) squares Neptune, so be on alert for confusing information, fake news, and dodgy deals (especially involving friends and finances).

VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)

The New Moon (on Tuesday night) sets the stage for a fresh start involving your home, a family member or a domestic project. But do you have unrealistic expectations about a close relationship? This week Mercury (your patron planet) starts reversing through your romance/friendship zone, and the Sun squares Neptune in your partnership zone. So it’s time for a major reality check as you reassess memories from the past, and recalibrate your present attitude.

LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)

The week starts well with a positive connection between Mercury and your power planet Venus. So Monday and Tuesday are fabulous days to communicate, circulate, socialize and fraternize. But – from Wednesday onwards – tread carefully with a fragile family member, as Mercury starts reversing through your domestic zone. If a recalcitrant relative sends negative vibes your way, then take the advice of birthday great Taylor Swift and “Shake it off!”

Solution next edition

Across

Down

1 Name the largest river in the world. (6) 8 What is a right held by one person to make use of the land of another? (8) 9 Which term describes the relative rank, or social position, of an individual? (6) 10 What is a three-sided figure? (8) 11 What is the coat of wool that covers a sheep?

(6) 12 Name a means of transportation. (4) 13 Name a renowned wicket-keeper, Rod ... (5) 16 To be void of the usual contents, is to be what?

(5) 19 What are highly skilled persons called? (4) 21 What is a small cogwheel engaging with a larger cogwheel? (6) 22 Name a ball game of American Indian origin?

(8) 23 Which light finger-shaped cake is filled with cream, and coated with chocolate? (6) 24 To have rained briefly, is to have done what? (8) 25 Who enjoys inflicting mental or physical pain?

(6)

2 What colloquially is a tramp’s swag called? (7) 3 Which musical folk instruments are played with a plectrum and the fingertips? (7) 4 What is a baby rabbit, still in the breeding nest? (6) 5 What describes an overwhelming disaster? (7) 6 Name the chief stagehand on a movie set, or in a TV studio. (3,4) 7 Which Bay lies on the western part of the Eyre Peninsula, South Australia? (7) 13 Which term describes snails, bivalves, squids, etc? (7) 14 Name a small nocturnal carnivore, arboreal in habit, and having a sharp snout and a bushy ringed tail. (7) 15 What describes fluorine, chlorine, iodine and the like? (7) 17 To be disfigured by crushing, is to be what? (7) 18 What is the Torrid Zone and neighbouring regions known as? (7) 20 When one moves rapidly, what does one do?

(6)

FREE PUZZLES EVERY DAY AT citynews.com.au

Sudoku hard No. 356

SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)

Expect some hiccups as Mercury starts reversing through your communication, education and travel zones on Wednesday. If you slow down, think before you speak, and double-check your itinerary and appointments, then you’ll manage fine. Plus – with Venus vamping through your sign (until December 29) – it’s time to celebrate being a strong, sexy, sassy Scorpio! In the words of Taylor Swift (who turns 34 on Wednesday): “Just be yourself, there is no one better.”

SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)

This week you’re ready to sparkle and shine, flirt and have fun, as amorous Mars and the fiery New Moon light up your sign! It’s time to shake off the shackles of other people’s expectations and, instead, be the authentically real you. Your motto for the moment is from birthday great Taylor Swift: “Be yourself, chase your dreams, and just never say never.” But Mercury starts reversing through your money zone so try to reign in your shopaholic tendencies.

CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)

On Wednesday, Mercury starts reversing through your sign. Mercury is the planet of clear thinking, communication (talking, texting and writing), transport, travel, commuting, commerce, computers, media and the internet. So – when it’s retrograde – it’s not a good time to do the following things: sign contracts; start a job or business; buy a phone, computer, car or home; launch a website; install new software; go on a business trip or embark on a holiday.

Disclaimer This column contains general advice, please do not rely on it. If you require specific advice on this topic please contact Gail Freeman or your professional adviser. Authorised Representative of Lifespan Financial Planning Pty Ltd AFS Lic No. 229892.

AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)

Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2023 citynews.com.au

Sudoku medium No. 356

PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)

This week – with a New Moon and Mercury turning retrograde – it’s time to do anything with an ‘re’ in front of it: revise, rehearse, review, remember, return, recover, reconnect. Especially in areas involving career, colleagues, peer group, hopes, goals and dreams. But take extra care on the weekend when the Sun is at odds with your patron planet, Neptune. A personal project could become very confusing, or a professional opportunity may be too good to be true.

Solutions – November 30 edition Crossword No. 909

Are you feeling confused, Aquarius? Have you been questioning your goals in life? Or does it seem as if you’ve got the worries of the world on your shoulders?

Take a step back and view things from a wider perspective. Doing good deeds will leave you with a warm inner glow. So think up some dynamic ways you can help those who are less fortunate. As Yoko Ono (a fellow Aquarian) observes: “Helping yourself is connected with helping others.”

Mel said “Gail I am one of the many people whose super had to be recalculated because of errors in the payroll area in my department.

I am absolutely distraught.

When I retired I was advised by PSS that my total super balance (TSB) would be approximately $1,400,000 when the maximum transfer balance cap (TBC) was $1,600,000. However when I look on MyGov now it is shown as $1,900,000.

I'm totally confused and what is worse I keep getting requests to pay more tax to the ATO. So all the extra money they paid me is being swallowed up in tax and I can't understand why.”

I said “Mel I am as puzzled as you are right now but I'm working through it so we can actually see what has happened and what you can do about it. Looking at the letter that you received soon after your retirement your TBC is shown as $1,400,000. As you said you were one of the people whose super was recalculated because of employer calculation errors. I note that you were paid a lump sum of $200,000 from which was deducted member contributions that you would have paid had the super been correctly calculated when it should have been of $25,000 and tax of $80,000 leaving you with a lump sum of about $95,000. I can see that this was paid into your bank during the 2023 financial year.”

Mel said “yes Gail that is what a letter that I have received from the ATO says. But the thing that is puzzling me is why they're now asking me for tax of $80,000.”

I said “when this recalculation was done and your lump sum recalculated your TSB was also recalculated. There is no record that I have access to from the ATO that it ever was $1,400,000. If the original letter from PSS did not exist there is no record that it ever was this figure. Which all adds to the confusion.”

What has happened is that the increase in your pension and the lump sum you received have pushed your TSB up to $1,900,000 which is in excess of your TBC of $1,600,000. This was alluded to in correspondence that I've seen and I’m sure that if you talk to your colleagues some of them will have the same problem. You have been charged an additional $80,000 in tax of which $25,000 relates to adjustments in 2018, there is a penalty of approximately $5000 and the balance relates to notional earnings that have been calculated because you did not take funds out of your super to reduce your TSB. As you were totally unable to comply with this requirement it does seem to be very poor form that you have to pay this amount. I am sure that had you known this in 2017 you would have reduced your TSB accordingly. I can also see that from your perspective it looks as if you have received a lump sum and it has all gone in tax.”

I do think it is totally inappropriate that the ATO has charged you $5000 interest on an amount that you could not foresee at the time you retired. It also seems unreasonable that you're having to pay tax because of your employer’s mistake. The approximately $50,000 is correct in accordance with the law. However, it seems quite wrong that your lump sum is being taxed for an error that you did not make.”

Mel said “Gail now I understand what has happened it was not at all clear from the correspondence.

I am really grateful to you for following it through for me and I thank you.”

If you have received a super recalculation which has resulted in large tax bills and you are unsure as to the accuracy contact the experts at Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd on 02 6295 2844.

Solution next edition

Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd 02 6295 2844

Unit 9, 71 Leichhardt Street, Kingston ABN 57 008 653 683

(Chartered accountant, SMSF specialist advisor and Authorised Representative of Lifespan Financial Planning Pty Ltd AFS Lic No. 229892)

info@gailfreeman.com.au | www.gailfreeman.com.au Follow us on Facebook @gailfreemanandco

Connect with me on Linkedin bit.ly/3bcXEZl

CityNews December 7-13, 2023 31