“A decent candidate would have started campaigning late last year, hitting the ground hard… and they should be across at least three big issues in their electorate,” writes ANDREW HUGHES
How Nurse Rach managed the junior doctors KEEPING UP THE ACT
The power is in your hands to vote effectively MICHAEL MOORE
McBride’s ‘inhumane’ treatment at the AMC ROSS FITZGERALD
Dumped by the Liberals, embraced by Family First, embattled MLA ELIZABETH KIKKERT is turning the other cheek and running hard
By Katarina LLOYD JONES
It wasn’t until his late teens that Liam Adams learnt to read and write, but now the 23-year-old has self-published five scifantasy-comedy novels.
Liam is on the autism spectrum and has an intellectual disability, two things he says saw him struggle dur ing school.
But after meeting celebrated car toonist Andrew Hoare, Liam began further developing his stories.
He says: “It’s quite a massive and quite unexpected journey because mostly, I’ve always been a massive storyteller, but I would never imagine that I would read and write, but easily the reading part was impossible for me when I was growing up because I couldn’t read things, I was having struggles.
“But it was mostly a friend of mine that really encouraged me, because there was some certain book series that I was interested in checking out, that he seemed to be talking all about, and that got me really interested and that’s why I forced myself to try to read a book and all that.
“And then the writing side of things, mostly it was just a tool I used because I’ve done many assignments from my last year of school and I think I used that skill to develop my own stories afterwards.
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mum and editor, Jenny Adams, described the whole thing as “snowballing” into something truly spectacular.
She says: “He was a very late speaker and a very late reader and writer, he didn’t end up reading until he was about 15, and I didn’t think he was able to use a laptop and so I didn’t actually get him a laptop until he started writing stories on his father’s computer.
“His father had a really old-fashioned computer, and I thought, well, if you’re writing stories on that… then he was off like a rocket.
“I would see him writing all these amazing stories, and the first one I read, I didn’t think it was very good, but then after that, I thought, hang on, no, no, there’s something here.”
Liam also works part-time at SpecSavers as a welcome person, and he says they have been incredibly supportive, never hesitating to give him time off to take his novels to SuperNova Comic Con & Gaming in Sydney, and the Oz Comic Con in Canberra, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Last year, he was even a speaker at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, and was awarded a Weekly Award for Emerging Artist.
Jenny says: “Everything just went off, and it’s very surprising how well and successful this has become.”
“And I’m not the best editor either, so the books do have mistakes in them, but that’s part of the interest, people don’t mind that.”
Incredibly, Jenny says that through support from grants and a lot of hard work, they have broken even on sales, and next year hope to see Liam making some profit.
During his time at the Adelaide Fringe Festival, Liam says he was invited to speak to some students who were also on the spectrum about his journey to becoming an author, with his key words of wisdom being “just give it a go”.
He says: “If you’re very interested in doing what you want to do, just absolutely try it.”
“Because for me, like, I gave these things a go, and it really pushed me, like, I’ve tried getting into reading, and then, of course, I’m now reading.
“And, I don’t know, it just came to this unexpected turn because it was around that time where, I’ve been try ing to volunteer to many different jobs and all that and no one was giving me a go, and my mum thought we should start a little business because all the amazing stories are great.”
MLA Elizabeth Kikkert surrounded by four of her five children. From left, Virtue, Manti, Utopia and, front, Laneah. Story Page 4.
Andrew Campbell
He started his business – Everyone Needs a Liam – in August 2022. His
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“And then I, of course, love getting into storytelling, so I’ve started doing my own storytelling, and then, of course, writing, and then it got me to this point.
“So it’s just, again, trying to push yourself to do what you really want to do, and just don’t be afraid to do it.”
“When I edit the spelling and grammar, I deliberately don’t change the way Liam writes because it’s authentic and beautiful in its own right.
Buy books from everyoneneedsaliam. com.au
Suddenly disendorsed by the Canberra Liberals, two-term member for Ginninderra Elizabeth Kikkert has hooked up with Family First and hit the streets in a challenging bid to shake off the slurs and get herself a seat at the October 19 election. She talks to IAN MEIKLE .
he tears come in a blink, and keep coming. The trigger was the question as to how MLA Elizabeth Kikkert’s five children were handling her sudden, brutal expulsion from the Canberra Liberals a heartbeat short of the next election.
How a party seeking the confidence of the community to govern, heading to the October 19 poll with only nine seats and thinks eight is a better starting point to reach 13 may be the moment Elizabeth Lee lost the election before a vote was cast.
But that’s what happened when Lee, facing her first election as leader, and the party’s management committee and the parliamentary party decisively disendorsed and removed Kikkert in early September. That’s quite a single-minded crowd.
But why? Lee sank the slipper reputationally hard with fuzzy accusations of two-term Kikkert breaching the Electoral Act 1992 around disclosure of donations and electoral expenditure and having exposed the party to potential workplace claims.
Emeritus Prof John Warhurst, political scientist at the ANU, thinks that beyond Kikkert’s discomfort, the Liberal decision may have some blowback on the party, by perpetuating the impression of disunity that started in December when Jeremy Hanson (number one Liberal vote getter in Murrumbidgee) and Kikkert (number one Liberal vote getter in Ginninderra) were incredibly relegated to the back bench.
This is the shadow looming over the news that Kikkert will seek reelection in Ginninderra, this time as the leading candidate for Family First, a national Christian conservative party that is standing candidates at the ACT election for the first time.
Kikkert, a devoted Mormon, has but a month to the election, a Herculean task. She says she’s “very optimistic”, she’s up for it.
“When I first learned that I was disendorsed I felt a sense of peace, but injustice at the same time. It was very clear to me that not running in the upcoming election is not an option. So I knew I was going to run, I just didn’t know who with,” she says.
Leader, Ginninderra candidate and former Liberal warhorse, Bill Stefaniak turned her down.
“And that’s fine, I feel the same way, too,” she says. “If he had asked me after I’d met him I’d probably have said no because after meeting Bill it was clear to me that this wasn’t my pathway.”
Enter Family First, a choice piqued by her tears during the interview.
“It has been an extremely rough time for me and my kids as well because my kids found out from their friends who’d sent them the link with the articles and so they have been… [tears]. It’s been painful for them to see their mum painted in this very dishonest way.
“My kids have been my strength the whole time.”
Her world is her family. She fell into politics when, as a stayat-home mum, she started a successful petition about a dangerous intersection near her home, which inspired the Libs to chase (and chase) her to run for the 2016 election.
“I received a strong sense to run for Ginninderra, but I wasn’t sure what party to choose and because I wasn’t associated with any political party I wasn’t associated with any politicians. At the time, I didn’t know who my chief minister was,” she candidly admits.
“Seriously, I lived in a world where my life just consisted of five small children.
“I chose the Liberal Party because Guilia Jones approached me about it.
“I did not expect to be elected, but I worked my butt off because I knew that this was the right thing to do. I didn’t even look at the TV at the results that night. I didn’t find out until a friend told me the next day. I wanted to not look at the results because I wanted some family time.”
It has been an extremely rough time for me and my kids as well because my kids found out from their friends who’d sent them the link with the articles.
Now it’s time for more butt working to return to the Assembly; can she do it?
“I do have amazing people who are there to help me and I do have a pretty good idea on how to campaign grassroots wise – door knocking and being at the shops.”
So what’s the appeal of Family First?
First she rubbed tummies with the Belco Party.
“I love the Belco Party, they’re wonderful people and I’ve always had a good relationship with them over the last couple of years and that was my first instinct to contact Belco and see how it feels,” she says.
“When I learnt about Family First, I just loved that name because that’s who I am. I always put my family first,” she says.
“Putting the family first as a number one priority when you’re coming up with policies, with laws to implement.
“It was easy for me to join the party because of their values.”
Family First would have asked questions about her disendorsement, what did she tell them?
“I answered that I strongly disagree with the allegations that the Liberal Party have made and that I am currently seeking legal advice,” she says.
“They understood where I was coming from and I think because they know how politics work, they probably felt that this was just a political game.”
But back to the reputational shadow. Here’s how Kikkert responded to direct questions about the Liberal accusations.
Firstly: “This decision was not taken lightly, but reflects the seriousness with which the Liberal Party takes compliance with obligations of candidates and MLAs under the Electoral Act 1992, including but not limited to disclosure of donations and electoral expenditure.”
This conjures up an impression of dishonesty. Can you see that?
“Absolutely.”
What do you say to that?
“I reject those allegations.”
You’re looking like a dishonest bully, that must hurt.
“Absolutely.”
What do you think the bullying slur is about?
“I reject and I strongly disagree with their interpretation of the event.”
So there is an event?
“An incident.”
Was that an incident between you and a staff member?
“Not my staff.”
Somebody outside your office?
“Somebody outside.”
Was there an argument?
“Currently I’m seeking legal advice about it.”
Did you see these claims against you coming?
“No. I didn’t see it coming at all. I was crushed.
“I was appalled… a Liberal member messaged me saying have you seen your emails. I said no and she said well, you’d better open them. And that’s how I found out.”
What did you do about it?
“Funnily enough, when I read it didn’t even know that there was a formal complaint about me. I didn’t even know that they were considering this and, if they were considering this, they didn’t even give me an opportunity to actually talk about or to state my case,” she says.
If you had been given a chance to speak to Elizabeth Lee, would that have made it a little better for you?
“I honestly don’t know. I honestly don’t think it would.”
It has been really, really comforting to have people who actually believe in you and don’t believe anything they have read on social media or even on the media.
How would they come to that conclusion?
“I honestly think that they were looking for a way… I honestly don’t know. But I strongly disagree with what they have said… and I am currently seeking legal advice about that.”
As to whether it’s defamatory, is that what you’re seeking advice over?
“Yes. I have been compliant with the Electoral Act since I have been a member of the Legislative Assembly and they have received no formal complaints about me from the electoral commissioner.”
Secondly: “In taking the decision [to disendorse], the Liberal Party also took into account conduct which had exposed the party to potential workplace claims as a result of Mrs Kikkert’s behaviour towards employees.
“The Canberra Liberals take compliance with the Electoral Act 1992 very seriously, and have no tolerance for behaviour which would not be acceptable in any workplace.”
Did you hear from any of your former colleagues?
“Jeremy Hanson reached out to check on me and James [Milligan] reached out to check in on me, but that’s it.
“Church people have been wonderful, reaching out to support me and support the kids.
“It has been really, really comforting to have people who actually believe in you and don’t believe anything they have read on social media or even on the media.
“When they read it they quickly reached out and said are you okay because we don’t believe anything they’ve said about you.”
And on the streets of Ginninderra?
“People are disappointed about what has happened and have asked me consistently what am I going to do now and please do not give up politics and that I’ve been a really good, strong advocate for them in the Legislative Assembly.
“And they don’t want to see my political life come to an end like that.”
of a 3-4 per cent issue? It’s now or never. Put up or shut up. Time to either get that local pollie engaged or
To convince them that they really are a 3-4 per cent. Look at Clubs ACT, definitely hitting above their weight for influence all things considered. 2045 for pokies reduction you say? The iPhone 37 will be out by then and AI should be in charge.
In a very tight election for those final seats in each electorate, it’s going to come down to who, just who, has done enough to catch enough of the 3-4 per cents to claim a spot in the Assembly and really make some changes in this town come October 19. Or spend another four years living with regret and missed opportunities about just how a few per cent would’ve made all the difference.
Dr Andrew Hughes is a lecturer in marketing with the Research School
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As a voter you have real power at next month’s ACT election. You have even more power than at other elections thanks to the calibre of the Hare-Clark electoral system.
With the ACT election set for October 19, it’s worth thinking about the most effective way to use your vote.
There are positive and negative aspects to effective voting. On the negative side, you can ensure your vote does not go to someone who you believe ought to not be in the Assembly. On the positive side, you can make your preferences count as well as your primary vote.
The single most important message on the negative side is to avoid putting any number against someone you do not wish to elect. You might not like the party or the person, or you might disagree with the individual’s policy and approach.
Perhaps the candidate is an elected member who, in your opinion, has done very little. Another possibility is that the candidate has behaved badly. Or there might be a shadow hanging over a candidate that you really believe ought not get a guernsey? Leave the square next to them without a number. You do not have to follow advice
“A high-profile candidate, or one attractive to a particular group of people, will have an edge. You have the power to advantage a candidate who deserves support. Similarly, an unmarked candidate is less likely to be successful,” writes Michael Moore.
from any political party. You have the power to choose one candidate or more from a party or a group and leave the others unmarked. You can then move to another party or group or go to the independent column. Do not be restricted to a column on the ballot paper. Seek the best people for the job, even if your numbering of candidates runs right across independent and party lines.
As an illustration a voter who is financially conservative but interested in local community wellbeing in Murrumbidgee might put the first vote next to independent Fiona Carrick. Based on community engagement, this could be followed by Liberal Jeremy Hansen or Amardeep Singh and the Independents for Canberra’s Anne-Louise Dawes. Labor’s Marisa Paterson or Chris Steel (or both) could be the next based on service in the Assembly. For
an effective vote – numbering would continue.
The most effective way to cast a vote is to follow the Electoral Commission instruction on the ballot paper. It reads: “Remember, number at least five boxes from 1-5 in the order of your choice”. Numbering further than 1-5 increases your chances of ensuring your vote is not “exhausted”. “Exhausted” means that your vote does not support any candidate to get elected.
Preferential voting allows flexibility and is the Australian standard. You can put numbers 1 or 2 (or more) against candidates who have little probability of being elected. You can then number others who you believe are much more likely to win a seat. This approach is an effective way not only to support people who have a genuine reason to stand for election, but it also sends a message to
People from all walks of life:
• School leavers & jobseekers
• Seeking a career change
• Parents wanting to re-enter the workforce
• Females and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples
People with transferable skills:
• Good written and verbal communication
• Professional presentation
• Excellent customer service skills
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You do not have to follow advice from any political party… Do not be restricted to a column on the ballot paper. Seek the best people for the job, even if your numbering of candidates runs right across independent and party lines.
those with whom you are not happy.
With Hare-Clarke, the parties have no say regarding the order in which their candidates appear on your ballot paper. They can only recommend how to vote.
Our system randomly distributes the candidate names so your ballot paper will be different to another person’s. The “donkey vote” (putting 1 to 5 in the order they appear) ensures the votes are evenly distributed among party candidates.
As those votes are evenly distributed, by careful numbering you have greater power to ensure your preferred candidate has an advantage over others. A high-profile candidate,
or one attractive to a particular group of people, will have an edge. You have the power to advantage a candidate who deserves support. Similarly, an unmarked candidate is less likely to be successful.
Some argue that it is only necessary to put one mark on the paper, despite the instruction from the Electoral Commission. The reason for this is that the legislation has a specific clause to ensure the vote is recognised to the extent that voter intention is clear.
However, voters putting less than five numbers on their ballot paper have a much greater chance of having the vote “exhausted”. Those who put more than five numbers on their ballot paper increase their chances of having more influence. The power is in your hands to vote effectively.
Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an in dependent minister for health. He has been a political columnist with CityNews since 2006.
Whistleblower David McBride’s debilitating conditions of imprisonment at the Alexander Maconochie Centre comprise cruel and unusual punishment,” writes ROSS FITZGERALD.
Australian Defence Forces Army whistleblower lawyer David McBride – convicted for revealing war crimes in Afghanistan – is currently imprisoned in Canberra.
Before Mr McBride was sentenced by the ACT Supreme Court on May 14 to five years and eight months incarceration, he was leading a sober and useful life.
Whatever one thinks about his guilt or innocence, it is my opinion that his currently debilitating conditions of imprisonment at the Alexander Maconochie Centre comprise cruel and unusual punishment.
This is because Mr McBride – a war veteran with PTSD – may not be receiving proper medical treatment for this debilitating condition, his safety is at risk and he is separated from his muchloved registered carer dog, who I can testify always needed to accompany him wherever he went in Sydney.
Despite the fact that Mr McBride has had no active drug or alcohol issue for the past two years, he is now compelled to attend a 12-week rehabilitation program .
In a recent communication to me, David McBride confided that his mental and physical health is deteriorating. As all the time I knew him prior to being in jail, he was utterly truthful, I have no reason to disbelieve him.
It may be pertinent to this article for readers to know that, for 28 years, I served the Queensland Parole Board and the NSW State Parole Authority, and that during that time I visited a number of prisons. Thus I am deeply conscious about how inmates should be treated.
A fascinating email was recently sent to me by one of McBride’s Sydneybased supporters, Tony Wakeman.
Mr Wakeman wrote: “David was initially placed in a wing with lifers until another detainee threatened his life.
“He was then moved into a maximum security cell block where a further threat was made to his life – it is not known whether this threat came from a detainee or not.
“Following this, he was moved into segregation, segro, which is the punishment wing of the jail. It is also known as isolation.
“David was locked in his cell for 23 hours a day and given one hour a day to go to a small bitumen yard surrounded by barbed wire to exercise. He spent eight days in isolation before they moved him into another maximum security wing of the jail.
“Since he was removed from the first accommodation unit, his access to email his two daughters was cut. They were not notified. He no longer has access to the gym. He has a cell mate who is withdrawing from methamphetamine and screaming throughout the night. He has no access to natural light.
“He is locked in his cell most of the day. He is allowed out for a couple of hours to make phone calls. However, there are around 30 detainees and only two phones and detainees fight over the phones, which means Dave has not been able to use the phone to speak to his daughters.
His visits have been restricted – he is allowed one hour once a week only. Dave is always looking over his shoulder. There is nowhere safe in the jail.”
Although I cannot personally verify all of the claims above, they certainly make important reading.
David McBride’s current circumstances of imprisonment in Canberra deserve to be independently investigated, and the results publicly revealed. Detailed fact-finding is required because all of his supporters, and some other Australians, maintain that McBride was imprisoned because he was doing his job and duty as an army lawyer in Afghanistan, and that he dared to speak the truth to power. Whether or not Mr McBride should receive a federal pardon may be a matter for another day.
CityNews readers might be interested to know that, in order to fund a bail application and help lodge the grounds of appeal, supporters of Mr McBride have organised an online fundraiser. This is at chuffed.org/ project/davidmcbride
He can also be contacted at this address: David McBride PIN 134463
Alexander Maconochie Centre Locked Bag 7775 Canberra BC, ACT 2609
Ross Fitzgerald AM is Emeritus Professor of History and Politics at Griffith University. His most recent publication is a boxed set of four Australian political satires, The Ascent of Everest (Hybrid Publishing, 2024), co-authored with Ian McFadyen of ‘Comedy Company’ fame.
October, 7.30pm
Canberra
“The Supreme Court decision, we believe, will highlight the heartlessness of the ACT government’s seemingly relentless war against the poor and less well off in our community.”
JON STANHOPE and KHALID AHMED look at Minister Berry’s bizarre management of public housing.
In responding to the AuditorGeneral’s report on the Growing and Renewing the Public Housing Program, Housing Minister Yvette Berry said that increasing the proportion of public housing was not the aim of the program!
The Growing and Renewing Public Housing Program was announced in the 2019-20 Budget. It included an undertaking to replace 1000 public housing dwellings and to increase the stock by 400 dwellings. One wonders then what meaning the minister ascribes to the word “growing”.
This was the second phase of the purported growth and renewal of public housing undertaken by the ACT government. The announcement followed the completion of an earlier program in 2019 that falsely boasted that 1288 public housing dwellings had been “renewed” under that program. We have previously noted that the 1288 public housing dwellings referred to were sold off with all proceeds
directed to Light Rail Stage 1, under an agreement entered into by Chief Minister Andrew Barr with the Commonwealth Government.
The stock disposed of was not fully replaced with an overall reduction of 194 dwellings. The government also sold off and banked prime land blocks and has failed to provide a full financial acquittal of the Program (Mark-I).
The audit report on the Program (Mark-II) pointedly noted, among other things, that the proportion of public housing stock in the territory had declined and will continue to decline within the timeframe of the Program.
Minister Berry’s claim that the aim of the Program was not to increase the stock of public housing is extraordinary and raises a raft of serious questions.
Interestingly, the government in its formal response to this audit accepted all recommendations. That surely flies in the face of the claim by the minister that the objectives of the Program were different from those that formed the basis of the audit assessment.
It begs the question whether Ms
Berry is suggesting that the auditorgeneral got the objectives of the Program wrong and went on to audit something that was never intended? However, in accordance with the requirements of the Auditor-General Act 1996 the Community Services Directorate (CSD) was provided with a draft report and a proposed final report for comment. The auditor-general is required to take any comments or objections into account and if necessary, make any necessary changes. Notably, however, no objections were raised by CSD in this instance.
In any event it is indisputable that there was a public commitment by the ACT government to increase the stock of public housing by 400 units of housing under the Program (Mark-II). Sadly, as a result of the failure to meet that target, together with the loss of stock that occurred in the Program (Mark-I), the decline in public housing
in Canberra since 2011, that we have previously highlighted, would not have been as dramatic or destructive.
If, therefore, the objectives of the two programs, announced with such fanfare at their respective commencements, had been realised, the proportion of public housing in the ACT would be much higher than it is. There would still, of course, be a major reduction and hence shortfall in public housing stock compared to the levels in 2011 or 2016.
This assessment must surely have been provided to the minister by Housing ACT. The minister’s denial of any intention under the Growing and Renewing Program to increase the proportion of public housing stock is truly bizarre and certainly contradicts the ACT government’s boast that it is a “progressive government”.
A major hurdle in meeting the objectives of this program, particularly the increase of 400 dwellings, was clearly the Program design. It involved relocating tenants in free-standing dwellings and selling off their homes. The dwellings targeted for sale were tenanted in large measure by elderly widowed women, the disabled and people with mental health conditions.
The government resorted to forced evictions which were characterised by the then CEO of ACTCOSS, Dr
Emma Campbell, as heartless, while being strenuously defended by Minister Berry.
Shortly thereafter, the Ombudsman commenced an Own Motion Inquiry while tenants initiated a challenge in the Supreme Court asserting, among other things, that in some instances, the evictions constituted a breach of human rights.
The government has indicated, in the most recent Budget Papers, the potential for it to be hit with a significant liability arising out of this litigation. The involuntary tenant relocation was paused in August 2023, and Ms Berry apologised to the tenants for distress caused. Forced relocations were ceased subsequently. The Program completion is now expected in 2027. We await with interest the Supreme Court decision in the case brought against ACT Housing. A decision which will, we believe, highlight the heartlessness of the ACT government’s seemingly relentless war against the poor and less well off in our community. A decision that we have no doubt the ALP and the Greens are praying will not be handed down before the election.
Jon Stanhope is a former chief minister of the ACT and Dr Khalid Ahmed a former senior ACT Treasury official.
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The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA), the Australian Institute of Architects, the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects and Engineers Australia identified five priorities and “asks” of ACT election candidates.
The shared priorities are to plan for climate change; promote housing diversity and the missing middle; embed caring for country; strengthen capacity for reform delivery and approvals processes and to plan for ACT rural lands and services across the border. Few candidates would have a problem in supporting these broad priorities.
The PIA added to the priorities the promotion of affordable and social housing delivery and maintaining options for rapid transit and light rail improvement and extension, and outlined actions to implement their priorities.
The climate change actions identified included the implementation of sustainable buildings pathways, articulation of clear targets for emissions reduction including development standards for EV charging, maximum parking rates, disclosure of embodied carbon emissions in development, streamlined EIA processes for
For Canberra’s move to a higher-density future to be soundly based, a review of the planning and transport strategies is needed. While
renewable energy; the acceleration of electrification programs; delivery of a circular economy strategy; a code for climate adaptation including targets for canopy cover/green grid, urban heat exposure and planned adaptation to natural hazards.
Housing actions included the promotion of housing diversity and the missing middle; the delivery of high quality social and affordable housing, the identification of sustainable and resilient dwelling targets and transit and active travel oriented optimum urban forms.
The transport actions include the adoption of mode share and accessibility targets, the cost effective enhancement of Canberra’s rapid transit network, maintaining future options for the augmentation and
extension of public transport corridor (including light rail); mode split targets, inter-modal integration and support for cycling, walking and energy efficient transport modes, increased bus frequency, the planning and protection of options for potential future high speed rail alignments or interchanges and the prioritisation of active travel projects over highway duplication to reduce car dependency, improve air quality, lower greenhouse emissions and create healthier communities.
Other actions include additional resourcing and upskilling of the public and private sectors to improve planning outcomes; preparation of a long-term planning strategy for rural and non-urban lands in the ACT to protect their agricultural and landscape value; a regional planning strategy to promote more sustainable and growth by integrating the ACT and the surrounding region including infrastructure and service planning, especially water security and related infrastructure delivery programs. While the actions identified have
considerable merit, there is a lack of detail.
For example, no information is provided on how to deliver missing middle housing. How will the level of high-quality social and affordable housing be increased?
How will the quality of redevelopment be improved? Does their approach include the exclusion of dual occupancy from areas intended for higher-density housing?
What can be done to improve the design of apartments to meet the needs of a wider range of households including downsizers and families with children?
If the aim is to reduce car dependency and increase bus frequency how can this be best achieved? Would the provision of high-cost light rail reduce the funds available to improve bus frequency, pedestrian and cycling infrastructure? Would high-quality busways deliver benefits more effectively than light rail?
A flaw in PIA’s approach is its acceptance of the context provided by the District Strategies, which is based on the superficial 2018 Planning strategy.
For Canberra’s move to a higherdensity future to be soundly based, a
review of the planning and transport strategies is needed to determine the optimal arrangement of housing and activity and the transport improvements to service and influence the land use pattern.
Such analysis would enable an effective response to the social, economic and environmental changes shaping Canberra’s development and build on the legacy of the Griffin’s and the National Capital Development Commission of the close integration of the built environment and the landscape.
While increased density is a key component of any strategy, responses to date have been inadequate and have resulted in poor-quality redevelopments, increased congestion, higher housing costs and do not meet the housing and lifestyle preferences of many households.
All candidates should be asked whether they support a review of the planning and transport strategies.
Mike Quirk is a former NCDC and ACT govern ment planner.
With 24 years’ experience Sentra Constructions specialises in a large range of projects from contract homes, extensions and renovations, house & land packages, to shop and office fit-outs. Sentra Constructions uses professional, experienced, and reliable tradespeople who provide high standards of quality workmanship.
You will always be dealing directly with the builder, and each project is managed by Rod Thornton – the owner of the business.
You can expect professional and courteous service from initial stages to completion. We offer expert advice on design, form and function, to achieve the right solution for you in a cost – effective manner.
During a recent public meeting, some wide-ranging discussions on ACT education matters revealed that the ACT’s Senator David Pocock has been repeatedly invited to visit ACT government schools but refused permission from the ACT education directorate.
Since he has been able to visit nongovernment schools, our government school students should have the same opportunity to benefit from such visit arrangements.
Hopefully before the ACT election senior ACT Education Directorate personnel will be able to set aside some time from preparing for the Integrity Commission inquiry and related court hearings to sign off on protocols and paperwork that would give a trustworthy politician access to our public schools in ways provided to ACT local and federal politicians who belong to the main political parties. This is especially important given that public school funding soon will be subject to a vote in the Senate. Swift review and revision of any relevant rules should have occurred in June 2022 when it was clear the political landscape had changed significantly in the ACT.
Sue Dyer, Downer
My holiday from reading the letters page, often featuring one particular ex-journalist, is doing me a power of good. I have kept an eye on what is happening in Canberra from the other side of the world. I notice that no mention has been made by any of the independents as to whether they support the expensive toy tram or not.
Having ridden on the electric cable buses
in Lyon, France, it is quite obvious that we should have gone down this route with cable buses and trams rather than light rail. Also, none of the many towns and villages I have visited seem to have a problem with rubbish, potholes, overgrown weeds and footpaths.
It is obvious that the Barr government is just not up to the task of making the national capital a pleasant place to live and visit, despite the high taxes and charges, and should be given the boot before we all go broke.
Ric Hingee, Duffy
The Liberal’s policy to develop Kowen, Symonston, CSIRO land at Ginninderra and not to develop the western edge, should be subject to detailed analysis.
Indicative analysis undertaken for the 2003 Spatial Plan found infrastructure and/or and environmental issues with the development of these areas and with the development of west Murrumbidgee. Comprehensive assessments are required not just of potential greenfield areas but also of the appropriate level of infill.
Such detailed analysis should have been part of the 2018 Planning Strategy, incredibility a long-term planning strategy that did not investigate the environmental, travel and infrastructure of alternative land use distributions, the scope to disperse employment or housing preferences.
Policy decisions are being made in the absence of a sound analytical base. It is clear there has been an undersupply of new detached dwellings and a need to explore the level of infrastructure cost savings of infill and how well it meets housing preferences.
Any greenfields development needs to supported by the timely provision of facilities and services, high-quality transport connections and desirably, employment
Candidates at the upcoming election should commit to an independent review of the Planning Strategy.
Mike Quirk, Garran
Earlier in the year Andrew Barr discussed a new stadium where the Civic pool is. Now the Libs are stating Acton Peninsular.
It has been suggested that people can get public transport to and from the stadium.
Given the only public transport is the buses, or if people get the tram and walk, other than this, how are they meant to get there if there is no parking? The parking for a stadium would have to be quite large for 30,000 people, which apparently is not the plan in the city. And buses? Has anyone considered how many would be needed to fill a 30,000-seat stadium and get out on to the road afterwards (from what I can see, there is only one road in and out).
It would cause complete gridlock and traffic chaos. Has anyone really thought this through? Then there is the noise. There are homes and hotels nearby. If it is the intention to have music concerts there as well as football, it will be very noisy for the locals, or do the Libs, Senator Pocock, the Business Chamber and the National Rugby League not give a damn? Or do they intend to do a compulsory purchase on them and knock them down? This is something Labor would do but I am surprised at the Libs.
It is not what I would call close proximity to restaurants, bars and hotels, they are across major roads.
Vi Evans via email
ACT politicians confronted by pauperizing, unaffordable rents, unremitting homelessness, intensifying social inequality, gambling and drug addiction, a gouging supermarket duopoly, endemic domestic violence, decrepit infrastructure, environmental free-fall, they, in electoral mode, choose to be blind to society’s basic quality of life needs, instead undertaking to “invest” in obscenely expensive coliseum
projects, to be utilised a few days a year, merely to gratify their private-box society clientele.
Albert M White, Queanbeyan West
Once again Jon Stanhope and Khalid Ahmed (“Welcome to the island of unaffordability, minister”, CN September 19), have hit one of the ACT government’s many sore spots squarely on the head.
Chief Minister and Treasurer Andrew Barr and Housing Minister Chris Steel seem intent on the building of high-density apartment tower blocks wherever the opportunity arises.
New single-dwelling suburban developments in Canberra are dominated by houses with huge, expensive footprints that are commonly only a metre or so apart, have no front garden, little or no back yard in which children can play, and have little or no space for greenery and trees. They are a recipe for insufferable outdoor heat and rocketing air conditioning bills come the next hot (eg, 2019-2020) summer.
In other words, such houses are not family friendly, are unattractive to and unaffordable for most couples seeking their first home. Furthermore, they worsen the housing crisis in the ACT at a time when housing is at a peak in demand. About one in 150 people is now seeking a home.
Yet another reason for a change of government in the ACT?
Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin
Mike Quirk (CN September 17) made the reasonable claim that “nuclear power is unlikely to be available for at least 10 to 15 years and will increase rather than decrease energy prices”.
He failed to acknowledge:
• That time frame is still well ahead of that of the major carbon polluters in the world.
• Nuclear power is a proven technology that would integrate with existing solar and wind resources.
• There would be no need for any major extension to the transmission network.
• There would be minimal requirements for costly energy storage.
• The requirements in skills and industry and workforce would overlap those of AUKUS.
The renewable eastern grid proposed by AEMO is the most complex and extensive dynamic network ever conceived. It would consist of nearly a thousand wind and solar generation sites, as well massive amounts of energy storage and gas fired generators for reliability.
Connecting large generators to a conventional grid is a well understood procedure. Stability would be guaranteed by the inertia of the large, nuclear-powered turbines. Complementary wind and solar sites can be managed as is the case today.
However, operating a completely renewable grid is currently a learning exercise requiring new control technology. We can’t be sure that it will work and we don’t know the cost.
John L Smith, Farrer
Former ALP Foreign Minister Gareth Evans is utterly correct in maintaining that the AUKUS submarine agreement is a dangerous deal.
AUKUS not only represents an abrogation of our sovereignty but is a major threat to our security as a nation.
By provoking China, instead of protecting Australia, AUKUS substantially increases the possibility of attack.
Ross Fitzgerald, Redfern, NSW
I have been following the sad and tragic decline of Andrew O’Keefe, ex-TV presenter and lawyer. Having allegedly recently overdosed on heroin, Andrew was found to be in breach of his bail conditions, and his bail was revoked. He is now remanded in custody.
I am concerned and disturbed that Andrew’s health issues (mental health and substance misuse) have landed him in a prison facility, as opposed to a health facility.
Further, the remarks made by Magistrate Milledge simply serve to label, judge and stigmatise Andrew. She is quoted as stating: “He’s a frequent flyer, he’s just so used to it,” further stating, “I just don’t see the same thing over and over again is going to be working for him and, God help him, it’s a shame that he doesn’t have an epiphany.” Pardon?
These kinds of comments are simply not helpful and appear to recognise that Andrew is a very unwell man.
And due to there not being a secure mental health facility to place Andrew, he is now incarcerated. Will he come out rehabilitated and reformed? I highly doubt it.
While taxpayers fork out immeasurable amounts of money to punish people like Andrew for his co-occurring conditions, I suggest that more resources be poured into appropriate treatment facilities for people suffering from health issues.
How about we show some compassion?
Janine Haskins, Cook
Celebrated in October each year, Mental Health Month encourages people to think about the importance of mental health in their everyday lives.
The month is about understanding how to boost mental wellbeing, looking out for each other and focusing on relationships.
Over coming weeks, businesses and organisations throughout ACT and NSW will host events to inspire people to think more about their own mental health and the mental health of those around them.
The month also encompasses World Mental Health Day on October 10, an opportunity to reduce the stigma and discrimination associated with mental health conditions, and promote positive mental health and wellbeing.
To mark the month, “CityNews” spoke with some local businesses and organisations who are passionate about improving mental health.
someone with a disability, a medical condition – terminal or chronic illness – has a mental health illness, or is frail, or receiving palliative care, says Lisa Kelly, CEO.
Alongside Mental Health Month, Carers Week will begin on October 13, says Lisa, and it is important those doing unpaid care work are recognised.
“We know carers are often invisible and the work they do is invisible, but the impact of their work is significant,” she says.
“Oftentimes unpaid carers are time poor and they don’t have the spare time to voice their concerns.
“We can assist them with a range of
for those who are frail and aged.”
Lisa says Carers ACT is a multi-faceted space for carers to receive support, and encourages people to get in touch, even if they don’t feel they urgently need the support right away.
She says even just signing up the newsletter to receive information about changes that impact unpaid carers is important.
“We’re the partner for carers,” says Lisa, “and it is important to invest in your own wellbeing.”
Carers ACT, 2/80 Beaurepaire Crescent, Holt. Call 6296 9900 or visit carersact.org.au
Highlands Centre for Healing offers retreats and workshops in nature for those seeking to reduce anxiety, recalibrate their nervous systems and “step forward into a more balanced life,” says owner Soo Woods.
The centre focuses on holistic wellbeing through a variety of natural and alternative therapies, with their point of difference being working alongside therapy horses, says Soo.
Horses can help people in numerous ways, and Soo says that even people who are afraid of horses will soon feel relaxed around them.
“They help to co-regulate our nervous system and find calm,” she says.
“And they teach people how to be mindful and to live in the present.”
Soo says every retreat and workshop is different, but at their
There are numerous half, oneday and multi-day events available, and details can be found on their website.
There is also accommodation available, situated on 43 hectares that back on to a state forest, providing the perfect opportunity for people to return to nature, says Soo.
Highlands Centre for Healing, 674 Nowra Road, Moss Vale. Call 0411 623479 or visit highlandscentreforhealing.com.au
Dear candidate,
Can you help ensure Canberra’s 58,000 + unpaid carers are seen, heard, and supported? Can you help us build a Canberra that truly cares for its carers. Carers ACT, on behalf of the carers of our region, has eight key election asks for you and your colleagues to help make a reality.
1. Carer Recognition Card: A governmentissued, non-means-tested card to verify carer status, provide recognition, and foster community connection.
2. Review of the Mental Health Act: A full review to include carer rights and ensure better care integration.
3. Carer Directed Wellbeing and Respite Packages: $500,000 in funding for Carers ACT to distribute respite and wellbeing packages.
4. Carer Wellbeing and Respite Centre: Land to build a purpose-built centre for carers offering respite, services, and community support.
6. Carer Bereavement Counselling: Specific support for carers exiting their roles due to bereavement.
7. Integrated Mental Health Centre: A central hub for mental health care, navigation, and respite, benefitting carers and those they care for.
8. Dedicated Mental Health Prevention Funding: A commitment of 20% of the ACT mental health budget to prevention and early intervention.
Holistic Wellbeing for Mind, Body & Soul through Nature Medicine
Highlands Centre For Healing (HCFH) provides nature-based wellness retreats and workshops designed to help you reduce anxiety, manage stress, and embrace a more balanced life.
Our programs focus on holistic healing and trauma recovery, incorporating therapy horses, somatic practices, and other natural therapies.
Each retreat and workshop offers a unique experience, yet all share the same goal: creating a safe space for healing and renewal. Choose from a range of half-day, one-day, and multi-day events, all set on 106 acres of stunning natural beauty. With cosy, unique accommodation on-site, HCFH offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect and heal in nature.
The 2024 Master Builders and Asset Construction Hire Excellence Awards celebrate the innovative, functional and beautiful projects of Master Builders ACT members.
In this feature, “CityNews” speaks with some of the winners of this year’s Master Builders Association ACT awards.
Brother Projects is honoured to be the recipient of the 2024 Master Builders ACT Home of the Year for the Deakin Pavilion project, and to be announced as the winners of the Custom Built Home $2 million-$4 million category, says managing director Jamey Dutkiewicz.
The award-winning four-bedroom Pavilion House is perched on an expansive, elevated block in Deakin with views to Canberra landmarks. He says the client’s dream was to create a warm, family home that pays dues to Canberra’s natural beauty and modern design.
“The client was inspired by barn-style pavilions, where a seemingly simple construction is set in an open parkland, with the indoors seamlessly connecting to the outdoors,” says Jamey.
“This was to be incorporated with a desire to push design and construction boundaries.”
Jamey says client satisfaction is always front of mind for Brother Projects, with the relationship with the client during the build sacrosanct, and meticulous attention to detail applied throughout construction.
“The minimalist nature of this project left no room for anything but the utmost care to be taken during construction and installation of every material, fitting and fixture,” he says.
“The client’s dream was achieved by establishing a best-practice partnership between client, architect and builder, where the client’s design ideas were complemented respectfully by expertise from the architect and building team.
“As a builder, you know you’re doing something right when you’re invited to the client’s wedding!”
Brother Projects, call Jamey on 0419 266289 or visit brotherprojects.com.au
Brother Projects managing director Nathan Dutkiewicz says client satisfaction is number one when undertaking a project with them, and quality will never be compromised, with no specific requirement or unique finish ever being a problem.
Nathan has been awarded 2024 Master Builders Association and Asset Construction Hire Excellence Young Builder of the Year.
He says they begin all projects by going through a thorough planning and design stage with all relevant parties collaborating closely with architects, engineers, and clients to ensure that the design meets both aesthetic desires and functional requirements.
“Throughout the construction process there are rigorous quality control measures in
place,” he says.
“Any issues identified or imperfections are addressed immediately to prevent small issues from escalating into larger problems.
“This proactive approach helps maintain the integrity of the construction, and ensures that the final product is of the highest quality.”
Nathan, who has worked in the construction industry for more than 15 years, says he puts time and effort into sourcing materials from reputable suppliers that Brother Projects has long-standing relationships with.
This way, he says Brother Projects has maintained a reputation of ensuring that every component of a clients home reflects superior craftsmanship, with quality materials and attention to detail the focus.
Brother Projects, call Nathan on 0419 205728 or visit brotherprojects.com.au
Sunny Homes is a local, family-owned building company that has con structed more than 250 high-quality homes since its founding in 2012, says director and builder, Sunny Malhotra.
“We are thrilled to announce that our stunning display home in Taylor has been awarded the prestigious Master Builders Award for 2024,” says Sunny.
“These esteemed awards recognise excellence in Canberra’s housing industry, highlighting the finest tradespeople and businesses across the region.
“Receiving the Master Builders Award reflects the hard work and dedication of the Sunny Homes team.”
The award-winning display home at 73 Robin Boyd Crescent, Taylor, is available to visit on weekends from 10am to 6pm, and by appointment on weekdays, and Sunny invites Canberrans to come and experience first-hand the superior craftsmanship and innovative design that distin guishes Sunny Homes.
Alongside being finalists for the Business Excellence Award in the Me dium Residential Building Company category (Annual Turnover between $5 million-$20 million) at the 2024 National Business Excellence Awards, Sunny says they were finalists in four categories of both the 2021 and the 0493 742880. Visit sunnyhomes.com.au
Drewaire Constructions specialise in custom built homes, extensions, herit age and remodelling projects across the Canberra region, says owner and director Andrew Foster.
It is a multi-award winning com pany that received further recognition at the 2024 Master Builders and Asset Construction Hire Excellence Awards, where it was announced as the winner in the Custom Built/Project Home $1.5 million to $2 million category.
“This is a house that had to be as energy efficient as possible, access winter sun to the main living areas, connect to the garden and views, yet remain private and intimate,” says
“It needed all the modern amenities, but had to be practical and
After 25 years of operating, Andrews says they continue to pride themselves on giving clients confidence with their master craftsmanship on each and every project, and
Drewaire Constructions has also been recognised as the winner of the 2011 MBA and Boral Excellence in Building Awards for the Custom Built Home $600,000-$1,000,000 category and was a finalist at the 2012 awards in the Remodelling $200,000-
less than $500,000 category.
In 2017 they were the winner of the MBA and Boral Excellence in Building Awards and the National Winner in the MBA Australian National Awards in the Remodelling, $250,000-$450,000 category.
They were also winners of the 2017 HIA ACT/Southern NSW Region Awards in the Renovations/Additions Project, $200,000 to $350,000 category.
Drewaire Constructions, 38 Woodland Avenue Carwoola. Call 6299 7335 or visit drewaire.com.au
In collaboration with Papas Projects, Studio Black Interiors was the winner for the Bathroom Project up to $50,000 category at the 2024 Master Builders and Asset Construction Hire Excellence Awards, says interior designer Maria Cerne.
“This elegant bathroom is a mix of contemporary, yet classic
“Balancing character and charm with modern-day living, Papas Projects and Studio Black Interiors have created a bathroom that feels relaxed and elegant with a feeling of calmness, serenity and cohesiveness.
“The brief for the bathroom was to create a space that felt calming and tranquil with a tone-on-tone palette and emphasis on handmade, bespoke qualities.
“A warm natural palette acts as the foundation for this bathroom space, with subtleties in materials and joinery details.”
Studio Black Interiors is passionate about good design, says Maria, and she believes the best outcomes are achieved in
“We specialise in residential design, bringing our experience and genuine love of design to create family homes that feel effortless and make you feel happier for being in them,” she says.
At Studio Black, Maria says their design philosophy is simple – function-driven design that supports and enhances the client’s lifestyle, without sacrificing on quality or aesthetics.
“We strive to create spaces that balance function, beauty, and simplicity,” Maria says.
“We embrace time-honoured materials, clean lines, and meticulous attention to detail.
“Our work focuses on creating spaces that are designed to feel effortless.”
Studio Black, 41 Gledden Street Chifley. Call 0410 501729 or visit studioblack.com.au
www.studioblack.com.au
Nestled among eight properties, this home expertly balances energy efficiency with privacy and functionality. Designed to embrace winter sun, it features flexible spaces for family gatherings and adaptability as the family grows. The attic form minimizes impact on neighbors, enhancing internal intimacy, while gable ends provide expansive views and dormer windows capture northern sunlight.
Acoustic comfort is prioritized with Hebel flooring for thermal performance, and single-skin walls are well-insulated. Radiant fireplaces add warmth, complemented by hydronic heating powered by an efficient heat pump.
The layout caters to young children’s accessibility while ensuring parents have private spaces. A thoughtfully designed pause area within a long hallway encourages family connection and play. A versatile guest room near the entry serves multiple purposes as the family evolves.
The grand entry features stylish lighting and practical joinery, leading to inviting living areas that withstand family activity. At the rear, high ceilings and Hamptons-inspired details connect the dining room and rumpus room to a spacious outdoor alfresco and pool.
The elegant stairwell acts as a cooling tower and leads to a study with stunning views.
This home combines traditional aesthetics with modern amenities, ensuring thermal performance, sustainable heat sources, and energy-efficient appliances.
Crafted to meet specific client needs, this custom-built home showcases meticulous detailing, from wainscoting to window designs. The layout promotes family interaction while ensuring privacy, harmonizing with the surrounding landscape and streetscape.
drewaire@tpg.com.au
We are thrilled to announce that our stunning display home in Taylor has been awarded the prestigious Master Builders Award for 2024. This exceptional single-story residence showcases our dedication to quality, design, and innovation.
Featuring four spacious bedrooms and three luxurious bathrooms, this home is thoughtfully designed for both functionality and style. The high raked ceilings, enhanced by strategically placed skylights, create an open and airy atmosphere that exudes luxury throughout.
These esteemed awards recognize excellence in Canberra’s housing industry, highlighting the finest tradespeople and businesses across the region. Receiving the Master Builders Award reflects the hard work and dedication of the Sunny Homes team. We strive to not only meet but exceed our clients’ expectations, and this accolade underscores our commitment to excellence in every project. Our home will also represent Canberra as a National Finalist in this category.
We invite you to visit our award-winning display home in Taylor to experience the superior craftsmanship and innovative design that distinguishes Sunny Homes. Discover how our homes can elevate your lifestyle.
Come explore our display home and witness the perfect blend of luxury and functionality. We are dedicated to building your dream home and look forward to welcoming you to our award-winning display
at 73 Robin Boyd Cres, Taylor. Open weekends from 10 AM to 6 PM & by appointment on weekdays.
Additionally, we are excited to announce that we are finalists for the Business Excellence Award in the Medium Residential Building Company category (Annual Turnover between $5M–$20M) at the 2024 National Business Excellence Awards!
It is an incredible honour to represent Canberra on this national stage, alongside industry leaders shaping the future of business excellence. This recognition reflects our exceptional business acumen, remarkable growth, resilience, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment to corporate responsibility.
The 2024 National Business Excellence Awards celebrate those who set new industry standards, and we are proud to be among such esteemed companies.
A heartfelt thank you to all our trades, suppliers, associates, and our incredible team at Sunny Homes. Your dedication and support have made this achievement possible. Teamwork truly makes dreams work!
Since our founding in 2012, our journey has been rewarding and fulfilling. We proudly look back on building over 250 high-quality homes with our dedicated team of 25 full-time local staff, who are essential to Sunny Homes’ success.
Visit our display homes at 73 Robin Boyd Cres, Taylor, and 60 Edward Drive, Googong. We look forward to welcoming you!
By Helen Musa
Canberra theatre company Child Players ACT is embarking on its 20th anniversary and season with a production of The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
When I catch up with founder and artistic director BJ Anyos, I find that it’s the first full production they’ve done since covid under their Child Play Theatre Training Program, where kids do the on-stage and backstage roles, although they have done conventional productions.
The secret of the company’s success is in her team, which includes production manager Angela Fewtrell, musical educator and composer Susan West, writer and mentor Katie Kavanagh, artist in residence Rebecca Setnicar and musical director and educator Georgia Pike-Rowney.
Everyone who works at Child Players ACT also has a day job, not least Anyos, an early learning co-ordinator at Questacon, where she has been working for 20 years and is responsible for creating workshops for young children called Science Time.
This is also the first Child Play process production they’ve done since the death of Anyos’ mother and co-founder of the company, the late Kathy Thomas, a noted champion for the theatre in Canberra.
undertones to the story, especially in the Christlike figure of Aslan the Lion, and she tells me that Lewis was trying to make the story of Jesus more accessible.
But she’s not emphasising this, saying: “People of our generation went to Sunday school but I’m not sure how many young people are aware of this theme.”
One of the great things about the Narnia stories is the identifiable characters, “all the little girls wanted to play Lucy but others want to play Peter, Susan, Edmund, too.”
The White Queen – the villainess of the story, is being doubled by Jessica Fellows, who has been with the company since age eight, and Lily Welling, who has been with them since she was a teenager and is now
This time they’re using professional adult actors to play some adult roles. The professor is played by real-life ANU physics professor Matthew Wooding, who is new to theatre, and Aslan is played by Robbie Wearden, who’s done a lot of kids’ theatre
“To have two fresh faces to join the Child Players family is lovely,” Anyos says.
One of the features of the Child Play-style productions is that they work with double casts, so that when your group is not performing, you get to do all the backstage roles, lighting, sound, everything, with professional theatre people teaching.
This is convenient too, because it means
they have ready-made understudies. Anyos hopes that her company prepares young people with life skills, saying: “One of the joys of theatre is the life lessons you learn – co-operation, teamwork, working towards a common goal, resilience.”
There’s also the adage that the show must go on, which teaches kids respect for deadlines and working towards a hard-set goal.
“My aim is that every child gets the opportunity to do theatre, although very few will go on to become professional actors,” she says.
Her son is a case in point. She and mum Kathy started Child Players 20 years ago while Anyos was directing Seussical the Musical for Phoenix Players. Her then 10-year-old son (he’s just 30 now) asked if he could operate the spotlight but they found there was nowhere he could learn that.
“Let’s start something,” she and Kathy said. Right now, everybody’s having lots of fun and when we’re talking, she’s painting the set, which will have three main scenes – the house with the wardrobe in it, the Narnia winter-scape and the Narnia spring.
The costumes are especially fun, with minotaurs, Mr and Mrs Beaver, unicorns, squirrels, griffyns and hardest of all, a centaur.
The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, Belconnen Theatre, October 4-12.
Streaming on SBS ON Demand is a film from Denmark that offers up some fascinating food for thought.
Or perhaps drink for thought is more accurate.
Another Round ponders the idea of what life would be like if one were constantly tipsy.
Not drunk, not a little buzzed but perenni ally at a level of 0.05 blood alcohol content. It was an idea that was actually proposed by a Norwegian psychiatrist. Finn Skarderud suggested that humans are born with a blood alcohol deficiency of 0.05%. (Tad important side note: Skarderud this year pleaded guilty to fraud.)
In Another Round, four middle-aged high school teachers decide to test out this theory for one month under the idea of it being a “social experiment” that they will “academically record”.
Like any good party, things start smoothly. They’re happier, more relaxed and their normally bored students start taking renewed interest in their classes.
But as the month goes on the results of their experiment quickly get out of control. That’s particularly the case for Martin, the story’s protagonist played by Mads Mikkelsen, who risks losing his job, family and friends to the experiment.
Still no matter how dire things get these four teachers are determined to stay the course until the very end of the four-week
binge.
The film is spoken in Danish so does come with subtitles but don’t let that ward off the opportunity to watch this truly unique import from Europe.
Another Round is an underrated cocktail of comedy and drama. Cheers to that.
HITTING Amazon Prime Video is one of the best sports films to come out in recent memory.
It’s called The Iron Claw and it stars High School Musical alumni Zac Efron.
This is Efron as he’s never been seen before though, undergoing a remarkable transformation into real-life professional
wrestler Kevin Von
Along with his brother Kerry (here played by star of The Bear Jeremy Allen White) and his three other brothers, the Von Erichs represented a Texan wrestling dynasty, taking out a string of championships in the 1980s.
Their father, Fritz Von Erich, was the patriarch of this dynasty, putting his sons through grueling training in the pursuit of glory.
But as The Iron Claw regales, the family would eventually come to be known as “cursed” after being struck by tragedy after tragedy.
Viewers don’t need to be fans of wrestling
or even have a passing interest in the sport to get caught up in this exceptional film that’s firmly spearheaded by Zac Efron’s most impressive performance to date.
It’s full of intense fight scenes and even more intense drama.
Be prepared for the emotional punch this one packs though.
NOW on both Netflix and Binge is the long-anticipated prequel to Willy Wonka.
Timothee Chalamet wears the famous top hat this time, with the film winding back to the clock to when Wonka was merely an emerging chocolatier.
Simply called “Wonka”, there’s no shortage of talent in the cast, which includes Olivia Colman, Rowan Atkinson and Hugh Grant who offer up a rather bizarre take on the Oompa Loompas.
Like many going into this, my expectations were low but this new take on Roald Dahl’s famous character admittedly has its moments of eye candy indeed.
It may be a little better than the 2005 Johnny Depp one and a little worse than 1971’s Gene Wilder take. A film somewhere in the middle that’ll be a treat for kids and a passable two-hour time killer for adults. Wonka is certainly watchable but ultimately I was left asking the question, why can’t this sort of effort be put into a wholly new idea for families to enjoy? Why not a new take on one of Roald Dahl’s many other fantastical stories?
So much for a world of pure imagination.
After a contentious parting of the ways around two decades ago, The Australian Ballet will once again perform with Canberra Symphony Orchestra. This time it’s Bizet’s Carmen, to run at the Canberra Theatre in June 2025. The ballet’s edgy production of Carmen has been praised by dance reviewer Michele Potter as “magnificent”.
Illusionist Michael Boyd returns with his magic and illusion show direct from Las Vegas. Canberra Theatre, October 2.
Canberra Craft Bookbinders’ Guild has an exhibition of 38 bindings/constructions of fine, contemporary, sculptural and artistic creations at the mezzanine level, Civic Library, until October 2.
Canberra looks set to become Music City for the next couple of weeks, with a deluge of top-quality concerts:
• The Australian Youth Orchestra’s Young Symphonists will take the stage for their Pure Energy, under the baton of Carlo Antonioli.
The Australian Ballet performs Carmen… The edgy production has been praised as “magnificent”.
Snow Concert Hall, Canberra Grammar School, October 5. Free, but bookings are essential.
• Canberra Mandolin Orchestra & Canberra Recorder Orchestra will stage their inaugural concert collaboration under the direction of Michael Hardy and Margaret Wright. All Saints Anglican Church Ainslie, September 29.
• The Song Company’s Fire Songs and Madrigals, celebrating the ensemble’s 40th anniversary is at Wesley Music Centre, September 29.
• Old will meet new when a team of classical virtuosi team up with didgeridoo master William Barton to explore Brahms, Ligeti and more in a Musica Viva tour. Llewellyn Hall, October 5.
• Canberra Bach Ensemble celebrates its 25 years with a bold and brassy program at St Christopher’s Cathedral, October 5-6.
Many were sad when the Ratanakosol brothers closed Morks on the Kingston Foreshore.
But the tears are gone now that dynamo duo Benn and Mork are back with exciting “third-culture cuisine” in a petite restaurant (22 seats) called Minima in Yarralumla.
Third-culture cuisine isn’t a fad as some think. It’s now an entrenched style of food in Australia, created by younger trailblazer chefs and hospitality pros who are thirdculture kids and proud of it. They grew up in a culture dif ferent from their parents and have been exposed to diverse cuisines, which they leverage to produce new and innovative dishes and flavour combinations.
Minima is truly next level. The service is impeccable. Staff are knowledgeable. The wine list is well-informed.
While the odd dish pays homage to the success of Morks (Thai), most stretch the boundaries to pay tribute to Asia’s undeniable impact on the world’s culinary scene.
The menu is as compact as the restaurant itself, with a la carte options or a tasting menu ($85 per person). We wanted the full Minima journey and so opted for the tasting menu.
The sashimi grade Hiramasa Kingfish was divine, with Sichuan citrus (tingly on the tongue) and mandarin powder. Not everyone in our party loves raw fish so Minima
swapped this dish out for the fried pork. It was super fun, sticky and sweet.
Lovers of raw food will worship the scallop, three slices artfully presented on a cabbage pancake with Chinese hot mustard. Again, Minima accommodated those in our party not fussy on raw shellfish, recommending the pancake on its own. Delish.
Minima shines with its house chickpea tofu, with chilli jam, eggplant relish and burnt butter. Although moorish, the presentation was fine art (and I would love the recipe!)
When we had finished indulging in the small plates we moved to the
selection included a wonderful omelette loaded with plump prawn, garlic chives and salty, tangy hoisin. The open-concept kitchen at Minima is great. The team working their magic to create dishes are quiet and focused and it’s amazing what emerges from such a small space. That includes torched snapper with sambal and curry leaf oil and exquisitely presented braised daikon and shitake mushrooms. Both the radish and mushrooms were cooked to perfection and the dish was as intense in colour as it
The five-spice apple crumble dessert was special although some of us found the pastry at the bottom not quite cooked enough. It was the only element that wasn’t 100 per cent bang on at Minima. Benn is happy to recommend wines that suit any budget from Minima’s extensive, curated list. Bookings are recommended for lunch or dinner.
I really enjoyed looking up the history of Father’s Day and reading about the regular rejection of it as a day to celebrate because it was not thought warranted until the swinging sixties.
That wasn’t because the Australian ethos suddenly embraced a more “hippy like” culture. No, advertisements and promotions helped embed Father’s Day into the Australian cultural calendar, encouraging families to celebrate the role of fathers for commercial gain.
Earlier in the 20th century, it was sure viewed with heavy scepticism. One web page quoted a 1911 newspaper as follows, with obviously a drinking father in mind: “A cynical lady correspondent suggests we should have the choice of three flowers emblematic of father – the scarlet geranium, because it resembles the bloom of his nose; the cornflower, to match the hue of his language when his liver is bad; or the mignonette, in sweet remembrance of his Saturday night breath.
Fast forward to this year when I cooked a three-course dinner and served up three wines to my two adult children plus a not-quite-yet-sonin-law-who-likes-good-wine-anyway Hanger On. He is a good bloke and even snorted at my dad joke: “What do you call a man with no shins?” “Tony.”
The first wine was something different. It has
been recently marketed by Brown Brothers in response to the growing demand for nonalcoholic and low-alcohol drinking options: their new Mid Strength Prosecco is only seven per cent alcohol and is therefore only four standard drinks a bottle.
Apple overwhelms the palate, with my son saying he’d rather just drink cider and my daughter saying that it was difficult to taste any difference from the normal Brown Brothers Prosecco, which is the number one selling Prosecco in Australia.
Hanger On loved the taste and said he thought the idea good as you could drink without being overly affected and the taste went well with the smoked salmon on offer as the first course.
The second course was chicken baked with paprika, olives, lemon juice and white wine. With the chook, I served a 2024 Devil’s Corner Resolution Pinot Gris, $35.
This Tasmanian wine has a nose with a hint of pear, but on taste delivers a soft melon like flavour, not the expected stone fruit burst you get from a lot of pinot gris, with lower acid than expected from a new vintage. It seemed the food flavours overwhelmed this subtle wine so we moved on to a red.
The red wine was the Calabria Family Wines
Saint Petri Shiraz Carignan 2022 , a wine made from Barossa Valley grapes and which won a trophy at this year’s Sydney Royal Wine Show, recommended retail price is $90.
This wine was on the opposite end of the spectrum from the white and, regrettably, wasn’t a match for the food either. It should be served with a beef stew or a beef wellington that’s been made with a pate and mushroom mix.
The wine was a real head scratcher because of the many complex flavours and the way it changed in the glass. It has a nose of herbs and dark fruits.
In colour, it is deep purple and it has a heady mix on taste, with lavender, liquorice and dark chocolate evident amidst a tannic burst derived, I believe, from the carignan, a feature that my son found not to his liking but was, in my view, a sign that this wine will keep well in the cellar. In the glass the tannins softened and the dark chocolate flavour became more evident.
The percentage of shiraz to carignan was not disclosed on the bottle but the talent from the winemaker of more than 20 years, Emma Norbiato, shines through in this multifaceted blend.
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By Jackie WARBURTON
The warmer weather brings the most vibrant time of the year in the ornamental garden.
The azaleas, rhododendrons and camellia japonicas are all in all their glory in the garden. They’re all long-lived shrubs if planted in the right spot.
Most azaleas and rhododendrons prefer dappled shade and some varieties even like full sun, so there is a plant for every spot.
They’re shallow rooted and like to have their roots covered to keep them cool. They like constant watering. The older they get, the tougher they get, and some can live for a very long time.
Rhododendrons that have grown
too large can have a big chop if needed, and now’s the time to do it.
This hard pruning will more than likely remove the flowers for next season, but the plant will be in a manageable size and will flower well the following year.
All pruning cuts should be at an angle, so when the branches get wet the water will run off and not cause any rotting of the stem. After pruning rhododendrons or azaleas, fertilise with an azaleas fertiliser and keep watering through the summer months.
IT’S also time to get busy in the vegetable garden planting summer crops such as tomatoes, zucchini, eggplants and pumpkins.
Tomato seedlings are ready to put into the ground when they have six sets of leaves and can be planted deeply into the soil or if you are planting into a pot, ensure it is a size to fit the root ball of the plant.
If a small plant is put in a big pot, it will take longer to grow, the roots of the plant need to touch the side of the pots to accelerate growth.
Upsize pots as you go and, overall, you will get a faster and bigger yield.
Zucchinis are floater plants in the vegetable patch and are unfussy about what soil they grow in or what was in there before it. They like lots of compost and water to keep them growing fast. The more you pick, the more flowers will be produced.
The male flowers come out generally in the morning and female flowers in the afternoon, so having bee-attracting flowers in the vegetable patch will encourage bees to pollinate the zucchini naturally.
If female flowers are not fertilised, a small zucchini will grow deformed, turn yellow and fall off all within a few weeks. Remove them and more flowers will come.
Eggplants are a great crop to grow in the summer heat and versatile in the kitchen as well. They like an acidic soil and are the same as all Solanaceae plants, such as tomatoes, potatoes and capsicums. If they’re all planted together, the soil conditions will benefit each other.
Water the vegetable garden in the morning and try to prevent the
foliage getting too wet.
NOW the weather’s warming, it’s also time to replenish the pond with a clean out of the water and new plantings for summer.
Cyperus papyrus is a pond and water bowl plant that does well in our climate. It’s a sedge plant and in some parts of the country it’s considered a weed. So if you want to use this plant, keep it in a water bowl or pond away from waterways. It grows to at least 1.5 metres tall and is great for a balcony that needs a little privacy with height. A native variety to look for is Cyperus lucidus, which has smaller foliage and flowers, but works just as well.
jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au
• Check that irrigation is in order before the warm weather arrives.
• Plant bulbs,summer-flowering such as liliums and gladiolus.
• Hand weed any bindi weed in the lawn before it flowers.
• Remove leaves from roses that are growing in the wrong direction.
By Joanne Madeline Moore
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
The Solar Eclipse revs up your relationship zone, so you’ll experience the greatest satisfaction if you share your goals and dreams with other like-minded people. Collective collaboration is the key. But you need to think long-term and be patient. Do your best to get the balance right between being creative and being productive; between having inspirational ideas and making practical progress. On Sunday, resist the urge to speak impulsively and act rashly.
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)
The mid-week Solar Eclipse stimulates your daily routine/work/wellbeing zone (and taskmaster Saturn trines your ruler Venus). So it’s time to be disciplined as you draw up a to-do list, apply for a new job, or reboot your diet and exercise routine. And don’t be disappointed if something comes to a natural end. Be inspired by birthday great, singer and actress Julie Andrews (who turns 89 on Tuesday): “When one door closes, another window opens.”
GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)
Mercury (your patron planet) and the Solar Eclipse are energising your creativity and peer group zone, so it’s a wonderful week to create, inspire, socialise and fraternize. An exciting new romance or friendship could be just around the corner! Are you single and looking for love? You could be introduced to your future partner via a work colleague, client or customer. Monday is the best day to tick the to-do list and get things done financially and professionally.
CANCER (June 22 – July 23)
With the Solar Eclipse and Mercury stimulating your domestic zone, it’s time for a new DIY project or a fresh family chapter. But there’s also a tricky Mercury/Mars square on Sunday, so slow down and think things through, otherwise you could find yourself smack bang in the middle of an argument or accident. There is much inner peace to be found via activities like meditation, contemplation, yoga and tai chi as you listen to the wisdom from within.
LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)
You’re in the mood to talk, text, tweet, publish and/or podcast as the Solar Eclipse activates your communication zone. New connections within your local community are also likely. But there’s a Mercury/Mars square, so make sure you convey your message clearly and concisely, otherwise disagreements are likely. Are you keen to borrow money, make an expensive purchase or sign an important contract? Saturn cautions you to be patient and wait.
VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)
The mid-week Solar Eclipse signals a fresh financial chapter, so start planning now. Long term partnerships (of the romantic, platonic and business variety) are also highlighted. Saturn tests perseverance, Venus – cooperation, and Mars – passion. But don’t get bogged down in gossip and criticism. Keep the conversation inspiring and uplifting! Your weekly motto is from birthday great, actress Julie Andrews: “Perseverance is failing 19 times and succeeding the 20th.”
LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)
With a Solar Eclipse in your sign (and Mars visiting your professional/life direction zone) be more proactive about where you are heading. Don’t just hope that things will magically change. The mid-week eclipse is the ideal time to set intentions and make wishes involving personal projects, physical appearance and individual goals. Most of all… enjoy yourself! Draw inspiration from birthday great, Kate Winslet: “Life is short, and it is here to be lived.”
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)
Scorpions are sometimes stubborn creatures, which can put others offside. You can also be jealous, possessive and materialistic, as your acquisitive side goes into overdrive. This week Venus is visiting your sign, which highlights your desire for harmony and balance. So strive to be more adaptable, as other people won’t behave in predictable ways. Smart Scorps will choose compromise over confrontation, diplomacy over drama, and generosity over greed.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)
The mid-week Solar Eclipse is the perfect time to revise, reassess and reboot your hopes, goals and dreams for the future. Think of creative ways you can navigate the unpredictable economic landscape, adapt professionally and pivot personally. Taskmaster Saturn also encourages you to be more responsible at home and more accountable with family members. If things aren’t going well with loved ones, then it’s time to communicate and cooperate!
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)
Mercury and the Solar Eclipse light up your career zone, so utilise your communication skills and natural charm to attract opportunities into your world. Then use your can-do Capricorn attitude to take action. Monday’s terrific Mars/Saturn trine reminds you to be proactive and practical. Preparation is the key. As singer/actress (and birthday great) Julie Andrews observes: “Work hard, apply yourself and be ready. Then, when an opportunity comes, you can grab it.”
AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)
Are you restless for physical adventure and mental challenges? The Solar Eclipse illuminates your travel and education zone, so it’s time to explore, study and experiment! Negotiation planet Venus also encourages you to compromise and hold out the olive branch of peace (especially to a stressed colleague at work). Attached Aquarians – don’t put your career before relationships. Singles – you could meet your soul mate via a colleague, client or customer.
PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)
The mid-week Solar Eclipse spotlights close partnerships, intimacy, secrets, trust issues and joint finances. With Saturn still transiting through your sign, you will make messy mistakes and experience disappointments along the way. But don’t let them deter you from your chosen path. With hard work and a positive attitude, you can turn things around. As birthday great Truman Capote wrote: “Failure is the condiment that gives success its flavour.”
Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
3 What is a soft black-faced doll? (8)
7 Which plant was once called the wattle? (6)
8 Name another term for the cosmos. (8)
9 To be in harmony, is to be in what? (6)
10 Which US boxer was known as Sugar Ray ...? (8)
11 What is an acquired male offspring? (6)
14 Which shearing-shed hand is employed to keep the shearers’ pens? (6)
17 What might we call tidy fellows? (4,4)
18 Which term describes a group of four? (6)
19 Who did an old witch keep locked up in a tall tower? (8)
20 Which glassy substance is applied to the surface of metal etc, for protection (6)
21 Name the woven coloured cords worn around the shoulders of military uniforms. (8)
1 Name a high-sounding small flute. (7)
2 What are prairie wolves known as? (7)
3 Name the first woman justice of the Australian High Court, Mary ... (7)
4 To adore frozen water, one must do what? (4,3)
5 When one labours more, one does what? (5,2)
6 Name the NSW Premier 1988-92, Nicholas ... (7)
11 Name a highly ranked officer. (7)
12 A face completely lacking expression is said to be what? (7)
13 Which fabric is made from a mixture of silk with cotton? (7)
14 Which instruments are used for breaking up and grinding substances in mortars. (7)
15 A country that refrains from taking part in a war between others, is said to be what? (7)
16 When one is betrothed, one is what? (7)
Australia’s financial year is from July 1 to June 30. The US financial year is a calendar year. The UK has a financial year that starts on April 6 and ends on April 5, which I've always found to be weird.
Here's the reason why: in 1753 the tax year was extended from March 24 to April 5 as Britain replaced the Julian calendar with the Gregorian calendar.
When William Pitt the Younger introduced income tax in 1799, April 5 became the financial year end and still is.
Another British fun fact: during medieval times, knights could opt out of fighting in wars by paying a tax called scutage, affectionately known as the cowardice tax. It had a very high tax rate and some people claim that this rate resulted in the creation of the Magna Carta to limit the King's power.
In 1795, again in the UK, the hair powder tax was introduced. This taxed the sweet-smelling powders that men and women put on their wigs. The story goes that this tax led to a dramatic decline in the popularity of wigs and put an end to Britain’s flourishing wig industry.
I always thought that Australia's tax laws contained a lot of words. Apparently the UK's tax code has more than 10 million words and is claimed to be one of the longest and most complicated in the world. Are you a Beatles fan? Did you know that in 1966 The Beatles song Taxman was released as a protest against the 95 per cent super tax rate. To quote: “Let me tell you how it will be, there's one for you 19 for me, 'cause I'm the taxman, yeah, I'm the taxman”.
Albert Einstein once said “the hardest thing to understand in the world is income tax”. While Benjamin Franklin said: “In this world nothing is certain, except death and taxes”.
If you're an American citizen, even if you are a tax resident of another country, eg Australia, you still have to lodge a tax return in the US every year. Interestingly enough, the only other country in the world that does this is Eritrea in Africa.
I love this: fortune tellers, astrologers and witches were added to Romania's labour code in 2011. So they have to pay income tax on their earnings. Some witches were angry and put curses on the government. There is no evidence that these curses actually worked. But others felt that it legitimised their work and they were happy to pay the tax.
From 1784 to 1811 the British government taxed hats. Based on the price of the hat, a stamp was secured inside it and anyone caught with a stampless hat was fined. One poor soul, a stamp forger, was sentenced to death for not having the correct stamp in his hat. If you live in Monaco you pay no income tax at all. In Bulgaria you pay a flat tax rate of 10 per cent. In Russia the flat tax rate is 13 per cent. In Ukraine and the Czech Republic the rate is 15 per cent. Romania’s rate is 16 per cent. Not sure whether it’s because of the cold, but Iceland charges 23 per cent as their income tax rate. Some countries have very high rates of tax. In Denmark the rate is 38 to 59 per cent of income, in Sweden it's 0 to 57 per cent , in Norway 28 to 49 per cent, in the Netherlands 0 to 52 per cent, in Austria 21 to 50 per cent, in Belgium 15 to 50 per cent and in Australia 16 to 45 per cent, followed by Germany Italy Spain France and the UK. Americans only pay 10 to 35 per cent and Canadians 15 to 29 per cent.
If you want to know anything about tax – including more fun facts –contact the experts at Gail Freeman & Co Pty Ltd on 02 6295 2844.
Winnunga Nimmityjah AHCS is an Aboriginal community controlled primary health care service operated by the Aboriginal community of the ACT.
In Wiradjuri language, Winnunga Nimmityjah means Strong Health. The service logo is the Corroboree Frog which is significant to Aboriginal people in the ACT.
Our aim is to provide a culturally safe, holistic health care service for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of the ACT and surrounding regions. The holistic health care provided by Winnunga AHCS includes not only medical care, but a range of programs to promote good health and healthy lifestyles.
Our services include:
• GP and Nursing
• Midwifery
• Immunisations
• Health Checks
• Men’s & Women’s Health
• Hearing Health
• Dental
• Physiotherapy
• Podiatry
• Dietician (Nutrition)
• Counselling
• Diabetes Clinic
• Quit Smoking Services / No More Boondah
• Needle Syringe Program
• Mental Health Support
• Healthy Weight Program
• Healthy Cooking Group
• Mums and Bubs Group / Child Health
• Optometry Service
• Psychology and Psychiatrist
• Community Events
• Groups
Winnunga AHCS is a national leader in accreditation, was one of the first Aboriginal community controlled health services to achieve dual accreditation under RACGP and QIC standards. Winnunga AHCS has been at the forefront of setting a national agenda for quality improvement in Aboriginal community controlled health and continues to advocate locally and nationally for best practice standards in operational and governance areas of Aboriginal health services.
CLINIC hours | MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9am-5pm
Ph: 6284 6222 | 63 Boolimba Cres, Narrabundah www.winnunga.org.au
