“The notions of ‘conservative’ and ‘progressive’ are… little more than pejorative labels and marketing monikers without much relevance to actual policy,” write JON STANHOPE & KHALID AHMED SO YOU’RE A PROGRESSIVE, BUT WHAT DOES IT EVEN
Oddly, Trump might be a plus for the good guys
ROBERT MACKLIN
Have smart phones spelt the death of the camera?
CLIVE WILLIAMS
NOVEMBER 14, 2024
Pining for a taste of the wine trophy winner
RICHARD CALVER KEEPING UP THE ACT
Photographer HILARY WARDHAUGH is this year’s Canberra CityNews Artist of the Year
A woman came into my clinic for a consultation about her hearing aids, telling me her hearing aids were 4 years old and she had never found them to be of much help. She said the salesperson quoted her $14,000 for a pair of hearing aids, however, the monthly special of 20% discount meant they cost her $11,200. So, she ‘only’ paid $11,200 for hearing aids that did not help her. Sadly, I hear this all too often.
Here are some things to do to avoid this type of problem:
1. Visit your GP. If you or someone you know has a problem with their hearing, visiting your GP to check for wax in the ears, and to get advice is a starting point.
2. Qualifications. Always check the qualifications of the person you are dealing with. A person without professional qualifications has no business advising you about your hearing. They need to belong to a professional association with a Code of Conduct, so you know they are acting in your best interests, not their own.
years. If you are not sure about their advice, then seek a second opinion. The wrong hearing aids can be an expensive waste and could lead you to stop wearing them. You should always have a trial of hearing aids to ensure that they are right for you.
6 Pensioners and eligible DVA card holders often have entitlement to free services. If you are covered by a government concession, then let the clinician know (even though your clinician should ask). Eligible clients may obtain free hearing tests, consultations, and free hearing aids (referred to as fully subsidized hearing aids).
“A person without professional qualifications has no business advising you about your hearing. They need to belong to a professional association with a Code of Conduct, so you know they are acting in your best interests, not their own.”
– Dr Vass
These hearing aids are appropriate for many people, however if you have great difficulty hearing in background noise (for example a restaurant), then you may want to consider partially subsidized hearing aids. This is when the government pays a certain amount, and you pay for additional features and benefits. Your decision should be based on the following:
you are dealing with a qualified clinician, then they belong to a professional association. The best contact is an independent complaints body referred to as Ethics Review Committee. You can email ethics@auderc.org.au and view the website www.auderc.org.au. You can make an anonymous complaint and your complaint will be handled in a confidential and professional manner. If you are in the ACT, contact the ACT Human Rights Commission email human rights@act.gov au and the website www.hrc.act.gov.au
3. Independent advice. You should get independent, professional advice.
4. There are a wide range of hearing aids out there. Finding the right hearing aids for your communication needs can be challenging. Hearing aids vary in price and performance. Bluetooth® connectivity and rechargeable hearing aids are available on most hearing aids, along with apps that allow you to control your hearing aids from your mobile device. Be aware that just because a hearing aid is more expensive, that doesn’t mean they are the best hearing aid for you.
5. Just as hearing aids vary in performance, clinicians may also vary in performance due to training, experience, and skills. Make sure that you are comfortable and confident in their advice. You are likely to be with this clinician for the life of your new hearing aids, typically 4 to 5
(a) Can you afford the more expensive hearing aids? Don’t go into financial stress if you can’t afford them. (b) Are you clear on the free vs partially subsidized features & benefits? Never believe someone who tells you the free hearings are not good or of poor performance, this is simply not true. (c) If you try the partially subsidized hearing aids and are not happy, then return them. Do not keep hearing aids because you think the failure is yours or that you will improve over time. If the hearing aids are not working for you in the trial period, then they will not work for you in a year or two.
7. If you have a complaint, then seek help. Your clinician should be able to help you through most of your needs. Sometimes, a problem may be beyond the expertise of even the best clinician. However, if you have a complaint there are things you can do. If
By Elizabeth KOVACS
After watching her son struggle to fit in at oversized childcare centres, Rupa Sivalingam decided enough was enough. She started her own.
Operating out of her Garran home, the former accountant has been offer ing family daycare services for more than three years, ensuring other children don’t endure the same expe rience.
“It’s been inspiring to witness chil dren achieve different milestones, be it a child practising to colour within the lines, solve a crossword puzzle or even learn to eat all by themselves,” says the winner of the 2024 Regional Educator Award for Canberra.
“As an educator, I try to make it very simple by sitting down and hav ing fun with them and learning something new every day.”
Rupa’s work in childhood education began after a dramatic career change, switching her heels and suits as an accountant for bright dresses and picture books.
“I’m so proud that I made the choice,” she says.
“It’s been fulfilling in more ways
than I can say.
“The transition wasn’t easy. I was used to a desk job, and suddenly I was [there] standing on my feet all day long.”
Rupa was nominated by parents for the Canberra 2024 Regional Educa-
tor Award, alongside fellow educator Sonja Radonjic from Communities@ Work Family Day Care.
“It was even more special because it was announced on my son’s 10th birthday.
“Being able to do the job that I love while also getting to look after my own children has been very, very ful-
“It’s nice to be appreciated.”
However, raising awareness on the benefits of family daycare is more important to Rupa than recognition.
“I want to be involved in actively promoting family daycare and tell [aspiring educators] that it’s highly rewarding if they put the time and ef-
“It’s about creating a home away from home for the children who are
“They really deserve it.”
Rupa finds that working with a limited number of children allows her to fully immerse herself in their worlds.
“I think the most important skill that they’re learning is to appreciate their true identity,” she says.
“I often think children are always getting compared to each other.
“You need to appreciate their uniqueness as well as treat them as an individual, which I don’t think is often done.”
Family day care operates under strict rules, with a limitation of four children who are under the age of five and three who are school-aged.
Rupa says this allows her to dedicate more time to the children.
“As educators, we need to create a genuine bond with them. So I sit down
and try to find out their unique interests and personalities. That’s when you create activities that are fun and engaging for them,” she says.
Four of her current children are soon entering kindergarten.
“It breaks my heart, but it also makes me feel proud that these are the connections that I’ve made.”
Although Rupa would love to help more children, she says she is wary about moving to childcare.
“I don’t want to make it commercial, like a childcare centre,” she says.
“Because that would take away from the one-on-one time that I have with [the children].
“That’s the beauty of a small group, you create a strong bond with them.”
Rupa credits her current standing to her supportive family.
“[My husband and I] failed to find the right childcare for [their son], he just couldn’t fit in a bigger environment.
“So I did it myself and he would tell me that ‘you’re the best mum in the world, and I want to stay with you forever’.
“That changed my attitude towards my career and made me realise that ‘no, this is what I want to do’.”
Her children, now 10 and six, have grown up alongside the children she works with, which Rupa says has felt like a big family.
“They call me aunty, and my children are like siblings to them.”
Arts & Entertainment 23-26
Crossword & Sudoku 27
Dining & Wine 25
Gardening 22
Keeping Up the ACT 7
Letters 10-11
News 3-12
Politics 6, 8
Streaming 24 Cover: CityNews Artist of the Year 2024 Hilary Wardhaugh. Story Page 23. Photo: Peter Hislop.
Since 1993: Volume 30, Number: 46
General manager: Tracey Avery, tracey@citynews.com.au
Senior advertising account executive: David Cusack, 0435 380656
Advertising account executive: Damien Klemke, 0439 139001
Editor: Ian Meikle, editor@citynews.com.au
Journalist: Elizabeth Kovacs, elizabeth@citynews.com.au
Arts editor: Helen Musa, helen@citynews.com.au
Production manager: Janet Ewen
Distribution manager: Penny McCarroll
Well, that wraps up the year of democracy, so how did we finish up? Oddly enough, at this point I’m tempted to make the Trump victory a plus for the good guys.
Sure, it’s early days, but just imagine what we might be doing now if a very close vote had given the electoral college 270 votes to Kamala Harris. America, I suggest, would be on the brink of serious violence powered by the evangelists, the anti-vaxx cranks and the mad conspiracy theorists.
Instead, we have had a sober and dignified concession speech from Ms Harris, a gracious commitment from President Biden to a seamless transition of power, and a fairly restrained (for him) victory speech from a bloodied but unbowed president-elect Trump.
And this after he made history by actually winning the popular vote for the Republican Party.
I’m aware that it’s early days yet. And when Trump actually takes the reins in late
January, he might well begin knocking down the guidelines of presidential restraint. After all, he already controls the Supreme Court and the Senate while the House of Representatives is also very close to a Republican flip. So the Democrats are doing whatever they can in the interim to appoint judges and pass state laws to protect hard-won rights. Their next task is to appreciate just how far they have strayed from the centre-left to the “woke” world at the margins.
And that’s a lesson for Aus -
tralian extremists who change the names of organisations such as our own literary group “‘Marion” to rudely empower one segment of an art or craft over another when the truth is we’re all in it together.
But that’s mere trivia compared to the ordeal that the Trump administration will face when testing their plans against the realities of the economy, the religious wars of the Middle East and the overwhelming consequences of climate change.
It is just possible that
Moving to Mitchell centrally locates us to Belconnen and the inner
and with 450 businesses in Mitchell the choice to move here was obvious.
I’m aware that it’s early days yet. And when Trump actually takes the reins in late January, he might well begin knocking down the guidelines of presidential restraint.
the conventional economic theories really are what some call the fairytales that make astrology look respectable. Certainly, economists have proliferated to the point where their messaging has become tiresome at best.
But if they’ve got it all wrong, the Trump threats about less tax and more tariffs will provide a real time experiment. We can all view the results as they happen and Trump exercises “the art of the deal” with Xi Jinping.
It may well be that he can bring peace to Palestine with a two-state, or even a one-state solution between Israelis and
their fellow Semites (but with a different god).
If so, that’s a win for everyone. Maybe even the Iranians will rise up and kick out the Mullahs.
And if his cry to “drill, baby, drill” into the fossil fuels reveals the “climate change hoax” then we’ll all breathe a great sigh of relief.
My fear is that in each case the results will not be kind to Trump, or to America, or to the world itself. But they will certainly settle a few arguments.
They might even suggest to the evangelicals that they too need to swap their book of fables for a non-fiction work of history (as best we can view it).
And if all that comes to pass, what a wonderful gift democracy will have bestowed upon us.
robert@ robertmacklin.
com
Sarah and Robbie Sanderson... world champions in Abu Dhabi.
The amazing Bungendore primary school students, Robbie Sanderson, 11, and his sister Sarah, 8, have won gold medals at the Abu Dhabi Jiu Jitsu World Championships.
Proud mother Alison wrote on social media that, “Bungendore is now home to two world champion juijitsu athletes.
“Sarah and Robbie are also National Australian Champions, US Pan American Champions and now World Champions in Abu Dhabi.
“An amazing story of success in 2024 for two kids from the Aussie bush with big dreams to succeed on the world stage.”
In July Robbie and Sarah won gold at the Pan Kids Jiu Jitsu IBJJF Championships – one of the largest Brazilian juijitsu kids’ events in the world – in Florida, US. Robbie won a bronze medal in the Abu Dhabi juijitsu world championship last year.
Tyres,
“The notions of ‘conservative’ and ‘progressive’ are nebulous… in effect, little more than pejorative labels and marketing monikers without much relevance or reference to actual policy,” write JON STANHOPE and KHALID AHMED.
A post-retirement, round-Australia trip by caravan is increasingly a dream come true for retirees.
The journey involves travel to distant and isolated places, but with all the provisions and comforts, even luxuries, of home. It epitomises freedom and autonomy in the great Australian outback.
The ancients understood caravans differently. They were groups of people travelling together with their goods for trade on not only welltrodden paths, but also to discover new markets.
A caravan provided safety against bandits and enabled pooling of resources. Often, people and families joined caravans for pilgrimage or in search of a new life and opportunities.
The caravans of old were led by people with the knowledge, experience and judgement to navigate through both known and unknown lands.
Some were recognised for the speed with which they travelled in order to get to markets quickly and safely.
Yet, there were also caravans led by individuals with a reputation for protecting and keeping the caravan together. They stopped as often as necessary to tend to the sick and the elderly. No one was left behind. The caravan travelled only
as fast as its slowest member.
The caravan became, and remains, a metaphor for a group of people engaged in a joint endeavour. In Buddhist philosophy, for example, it is a symbol of a journey from a place of desire to nirvana – a journey which, as the metaphor intimates, is best undertaken jointly.
Likewise, caravan leaders (“Sabao” in Chinese, “Meer-e-Carvan” in Persian, “Salaar” in Arabic, or “Sarthavaha” in Sanskrit) were invariably a symbol of wisdom, that is, if they kept the caravan together, but of betrayal if people were left behind on the journey.
Our societies and economies today are much like the caravans of yesteryear, striving for progress and economic growth through new technologies, innovation, and development.
Typically, individuals joined a caravan in search of profit; they were, after all, in the main, merchants. Since the search for profit drives entrepreneurship, innovation and investment, there can surely be no objection to this. But a joint endeavour is virtually impossible if the profit motive is not moderated by a commitment to some ethical principle such as all transactions being fair and informed.
Society is like a caravan. Its investments in services and infrastructure, for example in, say, health and education, have saved people from
being left behind, and indeed allowed more to enjoy the fruits of life. Such investments have come from taxation of income and assets. There are, of course, examples throughout history of benevolent kings building public infrastructure and looking after the sick and the destitute. There are even early examples of the welfare state.
However, it is only in relatively recent times that large institutional frameworks for income redistribution have enabled widespread infrastructure investment and service delivery.
The scope of which has been subject to much debate between so called “conservatives” and “progressives”.
In broad terms, conservatives argue for limited public spending, low taxes and minimal regulation in the belief that this will allow individuals and businesses to innovate and flourish.
However, progressives argue for larger spending on public goods and services funded by larger taxes and more regulation to ensure more equal access to economic benefits and opportunities.
Each claim that their recipe is both “fairer” and more economically sound.
The division between so-called conservatives and progressives is, however, not pure. Conservatives recognise the need for taxation and regulation while those claiming to be progressives recognise the primacy of the market in delivering public goods, sometimes indeed addressing market failure through market mechanisms.
than pejorative labels and marketing monikers without much relevance or reference to actual policy.
Consider, for example, the switch from fossil fuels to electric vehicles. This switch is being supported by generous public subsidies to buyers in the top-income quintiles. Those on lower incomes will inevitably be stuck with old inefficient cars and hence higher costs while their taxes – they do pay taxes – subsidise cars purchased by people on much higher incomes.
Progressive think tanks claim that the policy is “progressive”. How ironic that such public subsidies are inevitably bolstering the wealth of the world’s richest man – Elon Musk. It is no surprise then that those left behind by the decarbonisation caravan are far more likely to deny climate change. It is similarly unsurprising that they become prey for charlatans and autocrats who would have them believe that “woke” elites are the cause of their misery.
Is it, for example, “progressive” to sell off public housing to fund a tram? Is it “progressive” to cut funding for public health to the point that working-class families and those unable to afford private health insurance?
The recent ACT election was also framed as a contest between “progressives” and “conservatives” with Labor and the Greens proudly sporting the “progressive” label while the Liberals were forced to bear the weight and odium of “conservatives”.
Notably, however, some of the more significant increases in public spending have come from conservative governments while major degradation of public services have occurred under progressive governments.
Conservatives and progressives often differ in their views on the extent to which individuals are responsible for the circumstances in which they find themselves. They thus differ in their views on the extent and circumstances in which society has a responsibility to assist those in apparent need.
History shows just how shifting the positions are: Ford Motor Company was, for example, once considered progressive for its provision of health and housing to its employees despite its sometime violent opposition to workers’ rights to organise. Fuel subsidies, now anathema to progressives, were once considered progressive.
All in all, the notions of “conservative” and “progressive” are nebulous. They vary accord-
This does, of course, considering the record of Labor and the Greens over the last decade raise a serious question about the true meaning of “progressive”.
Is it, for example, “progressive” to sell off public housing to fund a tram?
Is it “progressive” to cut funding for public health to the point that working-class families and those unable to afford private health insurance wait up to four years for orthopaedic surgery?
Is it “progressive” to require Canberrans without appropriate housing to wait more than five years for public housing?
Is it “progressive” to have the highest rate of Aboriginal incarceration in Australia? More generally, is a caravan travelling fast and leaving some behind more progressive than the one travelling only as fast as its slowest, or vice versa?
Jon Stanhope is a former chief minister of the ACT and Dr Khalid Ahmed a former senior ACT Treasury official.
As a celebrity couples’ therapist, no couple has occupied my time as much as Andrew Barr and Shane Rattenbury – the legislative lovers Canberrans have dubbed “Shandrew”.
But irreconcilable differences have now led to a very public divorce. The duo of dreams has descended into dust.
However, dear readers, I can now share with you the transcript of my last session with the progressive pair, where the once bonded believers tried to resolve their fractured relationship and address their electoral dysfunction.
Harmony: Thank you both for coming. Let’s start with you, Shane. What seems to be the problem?
Shane: [nervously sips a kale smoothie] Well, it’s Andrew. He wasn’t very nice to me during our last term of marriage. He made me look like a fool in front of all my Green family. It was like I was just making up the
awful things he said on the campaign trail… [starts crying]
Andrew: Calm down, calm down, my love. You know I don’t mean what I say to the press. It’s just locker-room talk with Jasper and Bushy… they love it when I talk bro-to-bro with them.
Shane: Well, things need to change, mister [cries and is offered more tissues]. You need to be nicer to me!
Andrew: And I will, Shaney, I promise. Look, I’ve already got some great ministries lined up to give you.
Shane: [sniffs] Such as?
Andrew: Well, I was thinking, instead of attorney-general, you could be the new ACT Minister for Ethical Bike Paths. Imagine that? Making sure Canberra’s bike paths are no longer involved in arms dealing or offshore slavery? Also, what position should our bike paths hold on the war in Gaza? It doesn’t get more important than that, my love!
Shane: No, you’re just trying to trick me again! The kids and I deserve better than this, Andrew!
‘I’m going to leave you Andrew, and sit on the crossbench. You’re on your own!’... Shaney calls it off with Andrew.
of the till or fronting customers.
Shane: You’re one to talk! What about your Labor kids! Chris Steel is dimmer than a Tuggeranong street lamp but you put him in charge of the
another sign you don’t respect my Green family. That you take us for granted.
Andrew: Take you for granted?! Jesus Christ, Shane. I bought you that
going to leave you Andrew, and sit on the crossbench. You’re on your own!
Andrew: But Shaney. We have so much in common – Qantas Chairman’s Lounge membership, ministerial perks, lots of staffers… You don’t want to leave all that, do you?
Shane: [crying] But how would my Green kids respect me if I continued a loveless marriage just for those material things? Besides, I saw what you did with your new lover… Mr (so-called-independent) Thomas Emerson. Getting him to sign a prenup like the one we once had. Have you no decency!
Andrew: What? Are you trying to slut-shame me?! Yeah, I always thought you weren’t a true progressive! Unlike you, you conservative prude, I’m open to polyamorous relationships with anyone… Well, as long as I get to be the one on top.
Shane: [throwing his kale smoothie at Andrew] You’re worse than climate change!
Andrew: Frankly my dear, I don’t give a tram!
It was at this point that mysterious violins rose in a curdling chorus. Andrew grabbed his coat and strode off into the sunset to tell his kids they all had new management positions.
How quickly forgotten is the pain, inconvenience and impact of the last pandemic. Do we have enough trust in Australian governments to deal with the next one?
This was the fundamental challenge of the government inquiry into the Australian response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the 877-page COVID-19 Response Inquiry Report (and the 67-page Summary Report) acknowledged many Austral ian successes, it identified a series of issues and actions that governments need to take immediately and in the longer term.
The successes in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic include the relatively low rate of illness and death compared to other countries. On these most important measures, Australia fared well. However, there were also failures.
Effective early distribution of vaccines is one example. Remember Scott Morrison’s statement about “it is not a race”. It was – against the exponential spread of the disease.
According to the report: “Pandemics are predicted to occur on average every 20 years – and the likelihood of us seeing another significant event is growing”.
The focus of the report is on
nine major areas of action that are urgently needed to be considered by governments. They are: minimising harm, planning and preparedness, leadership, evidence and evaluation, agility, evidence, trust, equity, and communication.
Trust is the most significant of these. Early, high levels of trust in government authority, in science and in health advice was a casualty of our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although there are actions needed, a key element of rebuilding trust is to take the evidence, and communications on that evidence, out of the hands of politicians.
The establishment of the Australian Centre for Disease Control (ACDC) will assist in providing arm’s-length advice for political decision makers. The politicians remain with the final
A key element of rebuilding trust in government authority is to take the evidence, and communications on that evidence, out of the hands
responsibility of decision making. However, decisions will be public and transparent. For example, a recommendation of the ACDC may well be rejected by a minister on the basis of financial ramifications.
The recommendation of the report regarding the ACDC becoming trusted and authoritative is to give priority to a range of functions for systemic preparedness. Trusted and authoritative. The areas recommended include “risk assessment and communication, and a national repository of communicable disease data, evidence and advice”.
Trust is an important driver for any ACDC. The Australian Health Minister, Mark Butler, has already announced that the temporary departmental-based ACDC will be appropriately funded to expand and become an independent entity. There is room for expansion in the future. However, this decision marks an important first step in rebuilding con-
fidence and trust in our Australian health system’s response to diseases.
A key plank of trust in difficult situations, such as an exponentially growing pandemic, is effective communication. The report identified a series of measures that are designed to improve strategies to reach people with evidence based information.
Communication strategies need to be “timely, transparent, empathetic and consistent” as well as being inclusive, addressing inequities, reflecting an evidence-based approach which embed ongoing evaluation practices to “ensure communication activities are effective, are appropriate, and are meeting the diverse needs of the Australian public”.
Agility was identified as one of the key framework elements of the report.
The overwhelming thrust that will be a challenge for public services is to have “the ability to move quickly and respond in an uncertain and changing risk environment”. To do this, governments will need to “build, value and maintain capability, capacity and readiness across people, structures and systems”.
This column has focused on the health issues of the report. However,
www.studioblack.com.au info@studioblack.com.au 0410 501 729
as well as health, the report considered social and financial issues by applying the frameworks of trust, leadership, agility and communication.
The authors have reached out to the community, accepting a wide range of submissions, listening to focus groups and conducting face-to-face inquiries.
Robyn Kruk AO was the chair with members Prof Catherine Bennett and Dr Angela Jackson. The members provided an effective balance between economic, health and social issues.
Complacency is the greatest concern for the future. The report has provided a roadmap for preparing for the next pandemic.
However, examining public health internationally, funding is still being reduced compared to acute care. There remains a long way to go.
Dr Michael Moore PhD is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an independent minister for health. He is also a past president of the World Federation of Public Health Associations.
In the world of emergency preparedness, there’s a company in Canberra that’s making a difference by equipping individuals and businesses with essential first aid skills. Local First Aid Courses in Belconnen, founded by Emma Hely and Rob May, stands out not only as a family-owned enterprise but as a serious industry provider committed to saving lives. With a strong reputation for both personal and workplace training, Emma and Rob have developed a comprehensive approach to first aid education that is helping to create a safer Canberra community.
“For us, every person we see is another chance to help the community in an emergency,” says Emma. “Whether it’s a parent learning to keep their child safe or a business preparing staff for on-site safety, our aim is to ensure that more people have the skills they need when it counts the most.”
With 20 years business experience, Emma and Rob understand the importance of a first aid qualification in business and personal life. Local First Aid Courses is a go-to provider for individuals seeking personal certification, businesses requiring employee compliance, and industries in need of specialised on-site training.
Local First Aid Courses offer a range of nationally recognised courses in high demand. For those new to first aid, they offer First Aid (Standard), as well as First Aid (Express), for those renewing their qualification. They also offer specialised courses such as First Aid for Childcare and Low Voltage (LV) Rescue for electricians. Further, their courses such as Manual Handling certification, also serve high-demand sectors like health care, childcare, aged care, and disability support — industries where safety compliance is essential.
Rob said “Local First Aid Courses have evolved to meet the unique needs of industry-specific clients. “Our goal is to make
sure businesses can access quality, efficient first aid training tailored to their requirements”.
“We bring our training on-site, making it convenient and practical for companies such as Bounce Belconnen, 4Site Commercial (Hume), and Flynn Childcare Centre, who we have worked with in the past,” he explains. “We’re proud to support workplaces in staying compliant and, most importantly, prepared.”
Local First Aid Courses understand that when accidents happen, preparedness is key. They point out that while 60% of first aid incidents occur in the home, 40% happen in workplaces—a reminder that both environments benefit significantly from training. “Having first aid skills gives you the confidence to help not only family and friends but also colleagues and the wider community,” says Emma. This confidence can make a world of difference, turning bystanders into responders in critical moments”.
Our blended online and face to face delivery means less time away from work or home. Certificates are typically issued on the same day.
Individuals or work groups are welcome at our training facility in Belconnen, alternatively we can deliver training at your workplace.
Nationally accredited courses on offer:
–
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– Provide Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) HLTAID012 – First Aid in an Education and Care Setting Low Voltage (LV) First Aid and Manual Handling
The team’s commitment to making first aid accessible across different sectors extends to training for health professionals, security guards, supermarket employees, and staff at gyms and play centres. With a focus on practical, efficient training, Local First Aid Courses ensure that participants walk away with real-world skills, understanding that in emergencies, every second counts and overcoming any reluctance to help when it’s most needed.
Another unique aspect of Local First Aid Courses is its family-focused ethos. Emma and Rob emphasise the importance of first aid training for everyday people, especially parents and families. “We’ve built our business on the belief that first aid is a skill that should be widely available,” says Emma. “Our priority is to make this training as accessible as possible.”
Local First Aid Courses are not only about certification but about fostering a community of prepared, capable individuals. By providing courses that comply with the highest industry standards, including the six national course codes they offer, Emma and Rob have created a trusted, respected brand. They continue to support Canberra’s diverse industries, providing training that meets compliance requirements and enhances workplace safety.
For Emma, Rob, and their team, every person trained in first aid means one more person ready to step up in an emergency. “The more people who are trained, the better chance we have if life-saving help is needed,” says Rob. Local First Aid Courses aims to build a Canberra where first aid knowledge is not just a professional requirement but a community standard.
Local First Aid Courses. Level 1, Unit 8, 17/23 Oatley Circuit, Belconnen ACT. Call 0488 814 080 or visit localfirstaidcourses.com.au
Nichole Overall’s article on King O’Malley (CN October 31) was comprehensive, but failed to mention one of O’Malley’s most important crusades that had a direct effect on the creation and growth of the city of Canberra.
That was his strong belief in the writings of American economist Henry George, specifically his book Progress and Poverty. Mr George said poverty in the modern competitive economy was not due to low wages or even Marxist exploitation, but due to high land prices feeding through to high rents.
This, according to Mr George, was the major cause of poverty. He went on to argue that if land prices were low, rents would be low, and poverty would be greatly reduced, even eliminated.
This belief was very popular at the time, and there was even a Henry George Party.
As O’Malley was responsible for the creation of Canberra, he made sure that the city was set up along the lines of Henry George’s beliefs. There would be no freehold land, only leasehold. Land would be taxed on land value, not the value of the building on it. And, above all, land would be provided to all-comers, virtually free.
This latter provision went into abeyance in Canberra in the early ‘60s, and land has increased in value at an accelerating rate ever since.
If O’Malley was alive today, he would force the government to provide low-cost land to all who wished to build a house.
House prices would fall, yes fall, and rents and mortgages would be a minor part of every households’ budgets. Poverty would be reduced. There was nothing wrong with the economics of Henry George. But his very correct proposals have since been swept under the carpet, or cancelled, by self interest, greed and exploitation.
Tim
Walshaw, Watson
Rubies Community Care –Supporting Your Independence
They gave us heroes, we deny them rights
Armistice Day, more commonly known as Remembrance Day, is celebrated as it has been every year since 1918, on November 11.
It signifies the cessation of hostilities in World War I and typically incorporates a two-minute silence as a mark of respect for those who fought and those who died in defence of freedom and democracy.
Eighty-two Norfolk Island men (representing two thirds of the then adult male population) and two women, enlisted in the war. This is not only thought to be the highest enlistment per capita of any Australian jurisdiction, but is also widely accepted as the highest of any country of the British Empire.
Of the 82 men, 17 served at Gallipoli, four of whom landed on April 25, 2015, Anzac Day. Three were killed in action.
How ironic it is then that the Australian community that contributed among the highest, if not the highest, per capita number of residents to the war effort, namely Norfolk Island, is denied even the most basic democratic rights and is governed by faceless public servants and politicians living in Canberra, 2000 kilometres away.
I find our treatment of the residents of Norfolk Island deeply shameful. I fear, however, that I am virtually alone.
Jon Stanhope, via email
50dB in the bedroom, come to and hear it
Open letter to the chief minister, Last night we had 50dB of crowd noise from the Assembly Pub beer garden in our bedroom from midnight to 1am.
This morning I went on to the Access Canberra website to lodge a noise complaint only to be advised that Access Canberra has no jurisdiction in this matter of crowd noise and to refer my complaint to the ACT police.
Minister, do you really want me to contact the police every time crowd noise from the Assembly Pub hits 70 to 80 dB?
This would be a minimum of three times a week. Do you really have that many police?
Why doesn’t your government regulate crowd noise as in all other jurisdictions?
This issue has dragged on for many years. If you are having difficulty grasping our problem, could I extend an invitation to dinner at our apartment next weekend. My wife is a wonderful Chinese cook.
Terry Oldfield, Braddon
I sent this to ACT Health via social media, but I’m not holding my breath for a reply as they never answer.
“Why is there only an Aboriginal and a Torres Strait Islanders’ flag near the emergency sign at Canberra Hospital? Why
no Australian flag? Is this act one more of the obliteration of things British this woke government seeks? Canberrans should express their outrage.
Vivien Munoz, Holt
In his Kindness column, Antonio Di Dio (CN, November 7) wrote of Fred, who “reckons that he’s still not got around to make the pile that he could have with his amazing skills, and instead spent decades doing what he loved and people needed”.
This could, and should, be an object lesson for people who are obsessed with material wealth, be it property, possessions, shares or money in the bank.
A timely example of the obsession with money is Elon Musk. The world’s richest person was effectively buying votes for Donald Trump in a $1 million-a-day voter sweepstakes. Mr Musk is nobody’s fool: the only feasible reason for this barely legal (in Pennsylvania, at least) stunt was that the Trump regime would enable Musk to make even more money. Neither Mr Musk, nor Mr Trump seems capable of human kindness. This irrational greed and cruelty are what could be facing the world’s largest economy and the world’s most powerful military that is armed with thousands of nuclear warheads.
Dr Douglas Mackenzie, Deakin
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Once again, I find myself in furious agreement with columnist Michael Moore (Right turn: can Castley shake off conservatives? CN November 7).
Michael makes the undeniable observation that Mark Parton again demonstrated his political credentials by garnering more primary votes in the Legislative Assembly elections than any candidate other than Andrew Barr.
Despite this, Parton has little to no support in his party room, demonstrated by his inability to gain the support necessary to win even the deputy’s position.
Little wonder that Barr jumped at the opportunity of nominating Parton as the Speaker.
He has a proven track record of impartiality as Deputy Speaker and removing Parton from a position on the opposition front bench, his undoubted ability as a retail politician is effectively negated making the real winner Chief Minister Barr.
Also, as alluded to by Mr Moore, it will be interesting to see whether Parton continues as the presiding officer, or will pressure be applied to make him leader, after the incumbents almost certainly fail to achieve any traction.
Whatever happens, it is guaranteed to be an “interesting” four years on London Circuit.
Ian De Landelles, Murrays Beach
The problem with voting for candidates with a respectable curriculum vitae – who have “worked in industry at a senior executive level” and who understand “financial and technical issues and have developed strategic plans for new situations” (Letters, CN October 31) – is that very few such candidates were on offer.
It used to be that any self-respecting candidate would not put him/herself forward without relevant credentials, such as at least having been president of the local P&C association. Alas, this is no more. If I were assessing the applications from the most recent group of candidates for the job of MLA, most would not have made it to the interview stage.
Karina Morris, Weetangera
“In Canberra we are lucky to have amongst the fairest of them all.” I think columnist Michael Moore (“Why voters should be grateful for Hare-Clark”, CN October 31) is a bit overboard with that statement.
That said, his article was reasonably fair, although he fails to mention that the HareClark system favours the larger parties, and smaller parties and independents have found it very difficult to get a foot in the door. This has been proven time and time again within Tasmania and the ACT.
The preferential voting system in Australia requires voters to rank candidates in order of preference, ensuring that the elected candidate has majority support. This system reduces vote wastage by redistributing preferences if no candidate initially gains more than 50 per cent of the primary vote.
The Hare-Clark system, used in Tasmania and the ACT, is a form of proportional representation for multi-member electorates. It can lead to complicated counting processes and, sometimes, results in fragmented representation, where forming stable governments may be challenging.
It would be better for Australia and the states and territories to adopt the one, overall voting system, such as the preferential voting model, to maintain a fairer representation of the people and save confusion amongst the electorates.
Errol Good, Macgregor
dose of dorin
The Hare-Clark system of voting is arguably the best available method for eliminating disenfranchisement.
A five-member electorate base ensures that more than 85 per cent of the voters have an opportunity to be represented by a candidate of their choosing.
The disenfranchisement problem is not entirely overcome by Hare-Clark. Once representatives have been determined, the elected representatives then set about trying to establish a dictatorship. When this happens, the representatives of as much as 50 per cent of the voters end up being the opposition.
In practical terms, they are a waste of space in the legislative chamber because the dictatorship determines what will happen irrespective of the usually childish debate which takes place on issues.
A simple solution is to ban elected representatives from appointment to additional positions such as ministerial portfolios.
There are arguably many more competent people outside the elected legislative body that are ever likely to be found pre-selected by major contenders for the dictatorship.
In the absence of the opportunity for “better jobs”, the elected representatives could focus as a whole on the contributions made by experts chosen from outside.
The adversarial performance we have learned to accept as normal might be replaced by a consultative approach to government in which adversarial behaviour was the exception instead of the norm.
Lawrie Nock, via email
I live in Forrest with an avenue of oak trees outside. From time to time a bow of a tree falls as happened recently. Fortunately it fell on the nature strip and no-one was involved. On another occasion, a tree fell across the road just missing a bus.
We have had branches overhanging our roof for at least two years and despite several Fix My Street requests the danger is still there. On the last occasion the response was basically: “We know about this, don’t call us, we’ll call you”.
I questioned one of the workers removing the fallen tree and he indicated that equipment to access this dangerous branch is not available. So what do we do? Wait for the next storm and have the tree crashing through the roof? Apart from this discussion I have had no communication from the department.
Alan Shroot, Forrest
Recently, the federal deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley, erstwhile woo-er of women back to the Liberal Party, publicised around the country the party’s planned “fear and loathing” campaign against eight federal teal MPs.
The misleading claims and graphics about these progressive female politicians suggest that past tactics of the party’s “dirty tricks” ally, Advance, influenced this campaign’s design and launch.
Ley’s brash and simplistic attack template might well end up being adopted by the beleaguered ACT Liberals, to criticise the efforts and achievements of Senator David Pocock, and to talk up the conservative Senate candidate they have preselected for the top position on their ticket.
If so, the local Liberals, like their national colleagues, will again be insulting the intelligence of ACT voters, whose interest in politics and good policy has helped them discard shallow and deliberately misleading politicking in the past.
Sue Dyer, Downer
Nathan Dal Bon starts work as the new CEO of Community Housing Canberra Limited on December 9. He was CEO of Housing Australia and its predecessor NHFIC for six years. Mr Dal Bon says he is committed to supporting the growth and evolution of the community housing sector “given its critical role in supporting housing outcomes”.
Outgoing CEO Andrew Hannan is leaving for WA after seven years in the role.
The Bold Bandannas will have a stall selling Christmas puddings, cakes and hampers containing homemade chutneys, pickles, jams and plum pastes at Bunnings Majura Park 9.30am4.30pm on November 23.
The Tuesday Night Music Group – musicians from the Monaro Folk Society, who collectively play more than 15 instruments – will be entertaining the ladies of the Gungahlin Day View Club for their last meeting of the year at the Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club, Nicholls, from 11.30am on November 27. Lunch costs $35 and visitors are welcome. RSVP by text to 0413 923933 before 9pm, November 24.
The Weston Creek View Club’s end-ofyear, Christmas meeting will be held at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Woden, from 11.30am on December 3. Lunch costs $38 and will be followed by entertainment from the Shiny Bum Singers. All View Club members and interested guests are welcome. RSVP to 0408 864616 by November 28.
If you saw a drowning person and had to choose between saving them or capturing the moment, what aperture and shutter speed would you use?
I have always been interested in photography. I started off with 35mm cameras when I was about seven and later did my own black and white film developing.
I tried developing colour film but it was too complicated to be pleasurable.
Later, as a subaltern in the Australian Army, I taught air photo reading courses, which got me selected for an exchange posting in Arizona to teach imagery interpretation.
When I arrived at the school at Fort Huachuca, I was asked about my imagery qualifications; the US Army had been told I was the Australian Army’s imagery expert. I had to admit to them that I was merely a self-taught enthusiast.
I was then put on the US Army’s nine-month basic imagery-interpretation course. After that I had to complete a two-week instructor qualification course. As a foreign alien, I also had to complete an English test. (They accepted that my English was good enough for teaching purposes.)
The US Army did not get good value from the exchange arrangement
The advanced capabilities, quality, and flexibility of dedicated cameras make them indispensable for photography enthusiasts and professionals.
because they had to spend the first 12 months of my two-year posting teaching me what I needed to know to be an effective instructor to replace the experienced instructor they had sent to Australia. They were presumably happy with my next 12 months’ effort because I was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal at the end of the two years.
Australia benefited from my training as I subsequently had quite a lot to do with imagery and ended up running the predecessor organisation to the Australian GeospatialIntelligence Organisation. I also spent three years in Washington working, inter alia, with the CIA’s National Photographic Interpretation Center.
Have smart phones spelt the death of the camera? Actually, no. I‘ve just bought the latest Sony RX10M4 which has capabilities way beyond those of a smartphone camera.
Much changed with the digitisation of imagery in the mid-1990s and, from 2000, the marketing of smartphones with cameras. Now most people carry a smartphone camera around with them 24/7 and can even take videos with their phones. Most of the imagery now stays in digital form, in the phone or in the cloud.
Have smart phones spelt the death of the camera? Actually, no. I‘ve just bought the latest Sony RX10M4 which has capabilities way beyond those of a smartphone camera. (The owner’s manual runs to 269 A4 pages.) Not to everybody’s taste, I know. Most people’s photographic needs are met by their smartphones.
So why buy an expensive camera
today? Various reasons:
• Image quality: Expensive cameras, particularly digital single-lens reflex cameras and mirrorless models, offer superior image quality.
• Lens versatility: High-end cameras allow for interchangeable lenses, providing flexibility to use various lenses for different purposes, such as wide-angle, telephoto, macro and prime lenses.
• Manual controls: Professional cameras offer extensive manual controls over exposure, focus and other settings.
• Durability and ergonomics: Expensive cameras are designed to withstand more rigorous use. They often feature weather sealing and robust construction, making them more durable in extreme conditions.
• Professional use: Professional photographers are expected to provide the quality that only a dedicated camera provides.
So, while smartphone cameras offer convenience and are excellent for everyday use, the advanced capabilities, quality, and flexibility of dedicated cameras make them indispensable for photography enthusiasts and professionals.
On a lighter note: Photographer Fred goes to see his local GP who asks him: “What’s wrong?”
“I suffer from depression and sometimes feel like doing away with myself. I’ve tried medication and therapy, but nothing seems to work.”
“Well,” says the doctor, “try a different approach. When I feel depressed, I buy flowers and go home to my loving wife, take her out to lunch and then we go home and make love in the garden. After that, I always feel on top of the world. Anyway, try that option, and come back and see me in a couple of weeks.”
Two weeks later Fred sees the GP again and is clearly a happier man.
“Did you do as I suggested?” asks the doctor.
“I certainly did,” said Fred. “The lovemaking was fantastic – and may I also compliment you on your lovely garden.”
Clive Williams is a Canberra columnist.
The Importance
In this feature CityNews talks to local businesses helping to recycle, upcycle, reuse and rehome – from secondhand furniture to scrap metal.
Stopping the extreme amounts of furniture that goes to landfill, co-owner of Ex-Government Furniture, James Fullerton has been battling overconsumption of furniture in workplaces for more than a decade.
“We repurpose, reuse, recycle and rehome furniture,” says James.
“We live in a disposable society, but we’re trying to battle the stigma of owning secondhand furniture.”
James, and co-owner Taylor Radnell, say they go the “extra mile” with their service, by cleaning and servicing all of their furniture to the stage of looking new.
“When you come to us, you can’t tell the difference between new and second-hand,” he says.
In business for more than 20 years, James and Taylor are eager to promote a sustainable choice for office furniture.
With more than 40 years’ experience in skip bin hire for waste removal in Canberra, Corkhill Bros services both residential and commercial customers says co-founder Brian Corkhill.
“They’re perfect for helping with cleaning out the garage or the home, old furniture, appliances, home renovation, building waste, garden works, and you can put green waste in them, which we recycle,” says Brian.
“Customers can hire the skip bins online and we’ll drop it off and pick it up making it an easy process.”
“It costs to dump things,” says James.
“Why wouldn’t you save the environment and a bit of money?
“We’re here to turn a negative into a positive.”
James says the best part about working in this industry is seeing the great history, architecture and design of the pieces they deal with.
“We have items here from the 1890s up until present, with many pieces available to the public just years after they’ve been designed,” he says.
“We really do have something for everyone and cater to all budgets, all ages and all aesthetics.”
With a high turnover, James says there’s always something new coming into the store.
Ex-Government Furniture, 6 Yallourn Street. Call 6280 6490 or visit exgovfurniture.com or facebook.com/exgovfurniture
It’s just another addition to Corkhill Bros’ extensive landscaping services, which Brian says include a range of products such as mulches, soils, sands, gravels and firewood.
“Our staff are always welcoming and happy to talk customers through our extensive product ranges, and offer a large variety of truck sizes to help with each project,” says Brian.
“We extract and process all of the soil mixes within our range [and] we get these soil mixes tested
bi-annually to ensure our customers only receive the highest standard of products.”
Corkhill Bros also continues to host the green waste drop-off facility at the Mugga Lane Resource Management Centre, as well as receiving all the green waste collected in the Canberra kerbside green bins.
Metalmart is a one-stop metal shop, says owner Belinda Reynolds, who, backed with experience in the construction industry, took over the business in 2019.
MetalMart is a steel and scrap icon and has been successfully trading for more than 30 years in steel retail sales and scrap metal recycling.
“We are popular with a diverse range of steel users including farmers, steel fabricators, artists and the backyard handyman,”
“Whether it’s for domestic, rural or commercial applications, MetalMart has the products you need and if we don’t have what you are after we will do our best to track it down for you through our extensive range of suppliers.”
Belinda says MetalMart stocks an extensive range of brass and stainless steel products with a wide range of flat sheets in hot rolled, aluminium, zinc, steel plate perforated and stainless steel.
Corkhill Bros, 33 Darling Street, Mitchell (6241 8860), and Mugga Lane Resource Management Centre, Symonston (6239 7200). Call or visit corkhillbros.com.au
“Customers can come in with any idea and MetalMart can make it, too,” she says. With Christmas coming up, Belinda says it’s the perfect time to look at cleaning up the yard.
“Don’t forget to clean up any scrapmetal around your yard for Christmas and we will pay cash for it!”
MetalMart, 53 Collie Street, Fyshwick. Call 6239 2422 or visit metalmart.com.au
Residential and Commercial
2.5m3, 3.5m3, 6m3, 9m3 and 13m3 bins available
Natural Necessity surf shop owner, Kent Ladkin says the name is very purposeful.
“We’re called that for a good reason.”
Using natural fibres, water-based ink and now in the trial stage of creating a neoprene-free wetsuit for surfing, Kent says being environmentally conscious has always been the most important factor in the business.
“It’s in our ethics,” says Kent.
“It’s all part of the big picture and it’s who we are.”
Successfully running the business for 48 years, Kent is proud to have his three sons now keeping the dream alive.
What had initially started as a wax company for surfboards now encompasses clothing, an onsite vegetarian and vegan-friendly cafe, boards, and other surfing accessories.
Kent’s humble beginnings started with honey surf wax after he found the traditional wax chipped too easily on his board.
“To save on litter, the only packaging we used was recycled boxes and newspapers. While the wax itself had nothing except for a sticker.”
“As it turned out, when people peeled it off, it was generally easier to slap it on something than find a bin, so we ended up with hundreds of thousands of stickers representing the brand on cars, signs, fridges, you name it. It was amazing.”
Kent, now in his 70s, credits his environmentally friendly ethics for his good health.
“Our goal is to help people feel good, look good and be one with the environment,” he says.
“I still go out and surf every day with the boys, it brings us closer.
“Families who surf together, stay together.”
Natural Necessity, 115 Fern Street, Gerringong, NSW. Call 4234 1636 or visit naturalnecessity.com.au
Diesendorf, founder and owner of Call 6282 9900, or visit thors.com.au
Weddings can be a stressful experience, from finding the perfect venue to learning the right moves on the dance floor. Fortunately, Canberra is home to a selection of experts who are there to make your wedding day as stress-free as can be!
Annabel’s Bridal Studio has gowns to make any bride’s walk down the aisle completely breathtaking, says owner Misty Annabel.
With more than 16 designers and more than 200 styles in-store, Misty says they strive to make brides feel confident, happy and beautiful on their big day.
“We believe every bride deserves a personal, unforgettable experience,” she says.
“Our studio is designed to be a welcoming space where brides can relax, explore hundreds of designs in stock, and feel inspired by an exquisite range of gowns that speak to their unique style.”
According to Misty, every bride’s journey is personal, which is why she’s made it her goal to make the process as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.
“I take the time to understand each bride’s vision and bring it to life through our diverse and thoughtfully curated selection of gowns,” she says.
“We’re passionate about creating a warm, supportive environment where brides feel truly cared for.”
Misty says their commitment at Annabel’s Bridal Studio goes beyond just helping brides find their dress.
“It’s about making each individual feel beautiful, confident, and ready for their big day.”
Annabel’s Bridal Studio, at The Kennedy, suite 2, 28 Eyre Street, Kingston. Call 6295 3984 or visit annabelsbridal.com.au
Diamonds Manuka co-owner and gemologist Robert Hunt has been in the jewellery business for more than 30 years, says his partner and store co-owner, Elaine Hunt.
“Our expert team at Diamonds Manuka can help you choose the perfect engagement or wedding piece to celebrate your unique love story,” says Elaine.
“We can help you select an exquisite solitaire, trilogy or anything else your heart desires.”
They can also assist with the creation of unique designs, Elaine says, and stock a wide range of handmade diamond jewellery from which a special piece can be chosen, as well as a wide range of coloured gemstones, including sapphires in all colours.
working in the jewellery business.
“When you’ve got a lovely product, that’s just a pleasurable experience,” she says.
“We specialise in engagement and wedding rings, and are here to help you make your dreams come true,”
Elaine says.
Elaine says she and Robert love
Diamonds Manuka, Manuka Arcade, Shop 4/22 Franklin Street, Griffith. Call 6295 6448 or visit diamondsmanuka.com.au
“Nestled in serenity, the beauty of the Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club offers a stunning setting for a wedding venue,” says catering and events manager Leanne King.
“It has lush, green fairways that meet tranquil lakes, providing a stunning getaway for our wedding parties to say ‘I do’ in.”
According to Leanne, the location provides an unforgettable backdrop with expansive views, manicured landscapes and ample space for both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions.
“We try to cater to any crowd,” says Leanne. The venue has free on-site parking for guests, and with plenty of accommodation options nearby Leanne says the Golf and Community Club offers ease and convenience for the wedding party and their guests.
“Our experienced team is here to bring your dream wedding to life,” says Leanne.
“We have tailored packages that boast no hiked pricing and a commitment to making every moment perfect.
“We believe in simplicity and transparency. Our standard catering prices apply across the board, meaning no extra fees or high rates for special occasions.
“Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club is the ideal destination for a wedding as timeless as love itself.”
Ainslie Group, Ainslie Football & Social Club, 52 Wakefield Avenue, Ainslie. Call 6248 8422 or visit ainslie group.com.au, or, Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club, 110 Gundaroo Drive, Nicholls, call 6242 6283.
• Engagement Rings • Wedding rings
• Pendants • Earrings • Bracelets
6295 6448
Come & view at Shop 4 Manuka Arcade 22 Franklin Street, Manuka
Nestled in serenity, the beauty of the Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club, offers a stunning setting for a wedding venue, where lush, green fairways meet tranquil lakes.
Providing an unforgettable backdrop for your special day, with expansive views, manicured landscapes, and ample space for both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions. Free parking on site and accommodation options nearby mean a convenient and easy event for your guests.
Our experienced team is here to bring your dream wedding to life, and with tailored packages that boast NO hiked pricing and a commitment to making every moment perfect, Gungahlin Lakes Golf & Community Club is the ideal destination for a wedding as timeless as love itself.
Visit our website or scan the QR code to view our packages and enquire ainsliegroup.com.au T&CS APPLY.
Able to cater for up to 120 people, the Royal Hotel in Queanbeyan is the perfect destination for weddings, says events supervisor Liz Hansen.
With a bar, in-house catering and a bridal suite, the 1850s hotel offers a mix of “contemporary comforts and amenities, integrated with the original architecture”.
“We give as much as we can to make the day special for our bridal party and their guests,” says Liz.
Collaborating closely with local artists, decorators and photographers, Liz says the Royal Hotel fosters a sense of community to make the environment as magical and special for the wedding party as possible.
“They love coming here just as much as we love them coming here,” she says.
“It’s all about helping the couple out to give them the best experience.”
According to Liz, who had her own wedding at the hotel a month ago, the services provided by the venue are “incredible and it’s clear to see that the staff love doing what they do”.
“I think it speaks for itself that [staff] want to have our weddings here, too,” she says.
“We have a lot of knowledge and love customising the experience for each couple.
“It’s an amazing experience. We are as excited as the couple is and look forward to working with them from the get go, up until the day after where we can check them out as newlyweds.”
Queanbeyan Royal Hotel, 85 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan. Call 6297 1444 or visit royalhotelqbn.com.au
Things of Desire have reopened their doors once more in Manuka.
“We have exclusive European ensembles for the festive wedding season,” says creative director, Alan Arab.
“With vibrant colours and elegant outfits in limited editions, it really is a feast for the eyes.”
Alan says their collections are perfect for any special occasions with many of their pieces designed by local artisans.
“After 24 years of Things of Design operating in Manuka, we decided on a change of location,” he says.
• PRIVATE DANCING LESSONS
– Individuals or Groups
– Perfect for Wedding Parties BY APPOINTMENT
• KIDS MEDAL CLASSES
Thursdays from 5pm
• ADULT BEGINNER
Wednesdays from 7pm
• SOCIAL DANCING
Mondays 7pm - 9:30pm
All Classes are held at: The Crystal Ballroom Canberra 6/38 Reed Street Nth, Greenway, Tuggeranong
“We decided to operate out of our Fyshwick warehouse, which was nice, but based on feedback we received, our customers were having a hard time finding us.”
Despite celebrity interest in the TOD brand, Alan says their location just wasn’t “doing it” for them and decided it was in their customers’ best interests to move back.
“We decided against our time in the ‘wilderness’ and moved into a beautiful heritage-listed building in the heart of Manuka,” he says.
Established in 1995, Alan says TOD is committed to providing the best of European fashion for Canberra.
“Our name ‘Things of Desire’ says it all; that’s our buying formula,” he says.
“Our mission statement is to empower the women we dress.”
Ahead of the peak wedding season,
“We are looking forward to seeing you at our new abode in Manuka, which is three times the size of our previous residence!” he says.
“Come and experience something completely unexpected with new designs and exclusive labels, jewellery and bags.”
Things of Desire, 34 Bougainville Street Manuka. Call 6260 8844 or visit todesire.com.au
Dancing in front of an audience can be nerve-wracking, especially at weddings, but Dale Harris, owner of Dale’s Ballroom, says she can help even the most timid of dancers.
“We do private classes by appointment and we can accommodate choreographing a dance for your own routine, to the music you have chosen,” she says.
“We teach everything, from how to walk on to the floor, how to present themselves and to really make it special by standing up and being confident in what they’re doing.”
Dale is an expert in many styles of dance including tango, foxtrot, quickstep, Viennese waltz, and cha cha, samba, jive, rumba and paso doble.
Dale, who has more than 25 years’ experience teaching dance, started dancing at the age of six, when she developed an interest in ballroom dancing.
Dale also offers plenty of scheduled dance classes, perfect for someone with many weddings coming up that wants some help with their dancing.
Dale says she encourages anyone to come and learn regardless of age or experience.
Discover the hidden gem of Queanbeyan, where historic charm meets modern elegance. Our Upper House rooftop venue at the Royal Hotel Queanbeyan provides a breathtaking backdrop for your special day, blending contemporary comforts with the building’s original architecture. Host your ceremony, reception, and an intimate overnight stay—all in one beautifully designed venue.
Choose the Royal Hotel Queanbeyan for an elegant and historic setting that perfectly blends character with luxury. Our venue comfortably accommodates up to 120 guests, making it ideal for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. The enchanting indoor atrium and outdoor Terrace Courtyard, adorned with Japanese maples and bathed in natural light, provide a picturesque backdrop for your special day. To complete your unforgettable experience, newlyweds can enjoy a private and luxurious stay in our Royal Suite, creating memories to cherish long after the celebration ends.
Contact us to arrange a personalised tour and start planning your perfect day.
•
By Jackie WARBURTON
If
They’re not bothered by crop
Cucumbers prefer to be grown on a trellis to keep their fruit off the ground.
They are monoecious, which means there are male and female flowers on the one plant, and the bees will need to pollinate the flowers for fruit to set.
If the female flower is not pollinated, a small yellow fruit will form and drop off. More flowers will
happening.
There are a few cucumbers to choose from; the most popular locally are Lebanese, continental or apple cucumbers.
Lebanese cucumbers are the biggest to grow and need the most room. They’re ready for harvest from about 15-20cm long.
Continental cucumbers are ready for harvest around 40cm long and don’t need as much space. My favourite is the apple cucumber, which puts crunch in salads.
There are speciality small cucumbers to try such as baby cucumbers, gherkins and cucamelons with the advantage of pickling or eating raw in salads.
Cucumbers like a little lime in the soil and their pH about six. Keep them growing fast. If they become stressed, they’lll taste bitter.
NOW the frost has gone, fruit
and vegetables from the solanaceae family – tomatoes, eggplants, capsicums – can be planted.
Tomatoes like an acid soil. Place a little dolomite lime in and around the soil to help prevent future blossom end rot. Unfortunately, once this fungal disease is present, it’s hard to eradicate.
All solanaceae plants need compost and mulch. Add tomato food that’s high in potash for flower and fruit production.
Tomatoes need around six to eight hours of daily sunlight to grow well. Large tomatoes will need to be staked, a light trellis may also be required to support the tomato vine.
One that I am growing this year is a locally bred donkey balls tomato and also a few Romas for cooking sauces.
I am planting basil under the tomatoes because they grow well together and adding bee-attracting flowers, such as calendulas, alyssum and marigolds.
DECIDUOUS trees provide a lush, leaf canopy cover that cools the soil and makes the understory plants easier to grow.
There are so many trees to choose from that suit our environment, but a flowering tree is a good starting point.
Some of the most popular large flowering trees for Canberra
are Paulownia, crab apples and Manchurian Pears but for something a little unusual – if there is space – a horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) is worth a try. It grows at least 15 metres tall and is a beautiful park tree or a specimen tree in a large garden. The flowers are quite spectacular; pyramid shaped, they sit up to look like candles on the tree. The creamy white flowers come with deeply divided, attractive leaves. There is a red-flowering horse chestnut that grows slightly smaller at 10 metres tall, but still has the same gracious growth habit. Large examples of the tree can be seen in Commonwealth Park or at the National Arboretum (Forest 4) where they have benefitted from the wet weather over the last few years.
jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au
• Plant potted colour for Christmas.
Deadhead roses to encourage new growth.
• Only light tidy hedges as the summer heat sets in. Tie up berry canes to keep them off the ground.
COVER STORY
By Helen Musa
Canberra photographer Hilary Wardhaugh has been named 2024 Canberra CityNews Artist of the Year at the annual ACT Arts Awards held in the ANU Drill Hall Gallery.
Wardhaugh, well-known in the Canberra community for her family portraits, is also a press and fine-art photographer who was singled out by the judges in the Canberra Critics’ Circle for her provocative, innovative and creative artworks and endeavours.
Her #everydayclimatecrisis Visual Petition has gained international recognition and was also tabled in the Australian House of Representatives.
For the project, started during covid, she brought together 1247 crowd-sourced images from women and non-binary photographers all over Australia to visualise the effects of climate change.
The critics also praised her passionate solo exhibition Monachopsis (meaning a persistent sense of being out of place) at Canberra Contemporary Art Space Manuka,
which began in Queanbeyan where she lived for 15 years until recently.
Wardhaugh noticed that the Queanbeyan Riverbank was littered with what she described as “the detritus of the capitalist Anthropocene era”, later visiting Indonesia’s Bintan Island and Santorini in Greece, where she saw much the same thing.
Another artwork, A Meditation of Death, the judges said, conveyed the impact of conflict through a poignant marriage of technique and symbolism. It comprised 12 lumen prints made by hand-piercing 2000 holes in black cards, exposing them to sunlight, photographing them, then manipulating them digitally.
On learning of her award, Wardhaugh told CityNews: “As someone who always struggles with the name ‘artist’, I think it is absolutely wonderful.
“I’ve been a photographer as long as I could remember and I’ve always done these personal projects while working on my business – they’re something I’ve wanted to do since I finished year 12.”
As well as pursuing a busy career, Wardhaugh has her Visual Petition exhibition opening at the Australian embassy in Berlin on November 28.
She won’t get there in time for that, but will make a flying visit to Berlin around International Women’s Day next year.
And after she gets back from Germany? She’s toying with doing a masters in photog -
raphy but has no plan to give up exhibiting.
“I’ve always done exhibitions and now that my son is at university, I’ve got the time and energy,” she says.
Earlier, the Helen Tsongas Award for Excellence in Acting was presented to actor Joel Horwood.
The awards, hosted by the Canberra Critics Circle, also featured the circle’s own awards, which went to:
Writers: Andra Putnis, Kate Fullagar, Craig Cormick and Darren Rix, and Jeanine Leane.
Musicians: Louis Sharpe and the National Capital Orchestra, Edward Neeman and Stephanie Neeman, Andrew Koll, Lumines cence Chamber Singers and Shortis and Simpson.
Visual artists: Susie and Martin Beaver, David Mac Laren, Caroline Huf, Eva van Gorsel, Hilary Wardhaugh, Alex Asch and Mariana del Castillo.
Musical theatre artists: Queanbeyan Players, Chris Zuber, Free Rain Theatre and Marcel Cole.
Theatre artists: Amy Kowalczuk, Joel Horwood, Christopher Samuel Carroll, PJ Williams, Karen Vickery and Steph Roberts.
Dance artists: Australian Dance Party, Nathan Rutups, The Training Ground, Larina Bajic and Ql2 Dance.
Joel Horwood wins Helen Tsongas Award – Page 24.
After six years and five massive seasons, one of streaming’s biggest blockbusters is nearing its end.
Or so they say.
The “final” six episodes of Yellowstone, the epic cowboy saga starring Kevin Costner, have now premiered on Stan.
For those who haven’t watched it before, Yellowstone tells the brutal and bloody tale of the Duttons, the owners of Montana’s largest ranch who battle it out with developers, gangs and politicians all trying to encroach on this prime piece of ranching land.
Ruled by patriarch John Dutton (Costner), this family will do anything it takes to protect their birthright passed down the generations of the Dutton family for centuries.
Costner’s character has not only become one of modern television’s most recognisable faces but arguably the most iconic of his own career.
All that being said, there’s more than a bit of pressure on Yellowstone to stick the landing on its ending.
The first half of season five premiered all the way back in late 2022, leaving fans on the edge of their seats for almost two years.
Over the course of those two years there’s been plenty of conflicting reports on whether Yellowstone will or won’t end with what’s being called “season 5B”.
Like any successful series these days, if it’s popular then the executives are going to
the
new mystery for this amusing brood to get caught up in.
It’s set two years after the original show, but when new secrets emerge the sisters are pulled back into another sinister plot. It speaks to the strength of the writing and characters here that Horgan has been able to pull a whole new story here. Let’s hope it can equal if not top its predecessor.
SPEAKING of second seasons, Netflix has just dropped its newest instalment of The Diplomat.
This pithy political drama follows Kate Wyler (Keri Russel), who’s thrust into the role of America’s ambassador to the UK just as a major international crisis breaks out. If that wasn’t enough to handle as it is, Wyler also has to balance the storm of scrutiny that comes with her marriage to a high-profile political star.
The Diplomat makes for a decent blend of comedy and drama and it’s proven still fresh, racing back up Netflix’s charts once again.
Dublin and who
Those looking for an incisive breakdown of geopolitics will have to look elsewhere, but viewers who enjoy snappy dialogue from a charismatic lead will get their kicks here.
By Helen Musa
An actor known for penetrating the surface of stage characters to show us their inner workings was presented with the Helen Tsongas Award for Excellence in Acting at the ACT Arts Awards on Tuesday (November 12).
Joel Horwood was singled out by the theatre critics for a poignant interpretation of Konstantin in Seagull for Chaika Theatre and empathetic performances in Queers for Everyman Theatre and Ordinary Days for Q the Locals.
Originally hailing from the south west of WA, Horwood was trained in theatre at Monash University then at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts.
On graduating, Horwood moved to Canberra in 2018 for personal reasons and quickly got into the theatre scene, first appearing in Chris Baldock’s production of the Laramie project in 2019 at Canberra Rep Theatre.
After being spotted by director Jordan Best performing in Sam Shepard’s Fool for Love in Sydney,
production of Wolf Lullaby, and a whirlwind of performances followed including, in the past year, a moving and totally believable performance as the tormented Konstantin in Chekhov’s Seagull at ACT Hub.
By day a staffer at The Q, Horwood is by night one of our most talented actors, but the theatre critics also noted an impressive
record as an emerging director, with Echo Theatre’s King Lear and ACT Hub’s Every Brilliant Thing in the past year and a spot directing A Doll’s House, Part 2 for Canberra Rep in 2025.
But with work at such a high calibre, change is in the wind.
“I’m planning to head overseas after a while to do theatre, potentially for further study and directing and I’d like to see what the theatre landscape looks like in London,” Horwood says. “I’d like to see what’s out there in the world.”
The late Helen Tsongas, who would have been 46 this month, was a dramatic actor admired for her roles in both tragedy and comedy. She worked at Arts ACT for many years and then moved to the then Commonwealth Office for the Arts.
She died with her husband in a motorcycle accident 13 years ago shortly after their marriage and her family has established this award in her memory.
The Helen Tsongas award takes the form of a cheque to the value of $1000 and a certificate going to the best Canberra actor of the year, with no restrictions on age or gender, as judged by the theatre panels of the Canberra Critics Circle, and will continue over the coming years.
New on Kingston
Foreshore is a Japanese restaurant with an extensive menu featuring classic sashimi, sushi, small rolls, larger hand rolls, dumplings and other hot dishes, salads and Udon noodle soups.
The sushi train at Taiwa Sushi slowly moves dish after dish after dish along a super-long conveyor belt that winds through the restaurant, directly in front of most seats.
Dishes start at $4 and top off at $10.80 (these are served on glossy black plates decorated with gold and brilliant red leaves). The challenge is deciding what you want from the dozens of options available thanks to the skilled sushi chefs working their magic in the large open-concept kitchen.
seasoned creamy dressing ($10.80).
Taiwa Sushi’s interior is cool, contemporary and calming. We popped by for lunch not too long after it opened, and the place was enjoying a steady stream of customers.
The mini mix of sashimi (three pieces of raw salmon and two of raw tuna, for $10.80) was excellent, with the fresh fish being mild and delicate, with a soft and tender texture.
Vibrant in colour and taste was the seaweed salad $8.80. The lobster salad was a gorgeous coral
Our selection of rolls included the simple and popular chicken and avocado (four pieces in a square). Wagyu beef rolls were generous with quality meat and the rice was sprinkled on top with a dry spice mix that hit the spot (three pieces for $6).
We were in the mood for some hot items and the pork dumplings were soul-satisfying ($6.50 for four). They were piping hot, and the dumplings were fried so slightly crispy on the outside, but not chewy. The filling was generous and flavoursome.
tempura batter and deep-fried until golden. My favourite dish was the Karaage chicken ($6.50). This famous Japanese fried chicken was crunchy on the outside and the meat on the inside deliciously tender. The secret seasoning in the batter was perfect.
Taiwa Sushi has a selection of soft drinks and, of course, miso soup and green tea are on the menu. Choose a seat along the area facing the kitchen to watch the chefs and staff quietly working
away, or a seat at the long wooden bar area facing the lake. Other seating options include rectangle tables for four.
Taiwa Sushi staff are polite and attentive. This new establishment is about quick and inexpensive lunches and dinners. It’s no wonder the sushi train style of restaurant is so popular in Japan.
The Jimmy Watson Trophy is one of the most prestigious awards in the Australian wine industry.
Named after the legendary Melbourne wine bar owner, Jimmy Watson, this trophy has become a symbol of excellence, innovation and quality in Australian winemaking since its inception in 1962.
Awarded annually at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards, the trophy recognises the best one or two-year-old red wine in the country.
This august journal was the first to broadcast the news that the local Murrumbateman Four Winds Vineyard had won the 2024 Jimmy Watson trophy and a slew of other awards (the Trevor Mast Trophy for Best Shiraz; the Douglas Seabrook Trophy for Best Single Vineyard Wine; the Best NSW/ACT Shiraz and the Kym Ludvigsen Trophy for Viticultural Excellence) for its 2023 shiraz.
The good thing about the Jimmy Watson Trophy is that it is unique in its focus on young red wines, highlighting the skill of winemakers in producing exceptional wines that can be enjoyed relatively soon after their release.
So, I was keen to get some of this locally produced wine. I contacted the company representing Four Winds to see if they had this wine for a taste.
But, I’m feeling waves of gratitude today (or it could just be the start of alcohol tremors.) Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to taste some previous winners of the Jimmy Watson Trophy, including the other local that won in 2009, the Eden Road Wines’ Long Road Shiraz Hilltops 2008.
That is a faded memory now but at least it won’t be a figment of my imagination like a taste of the current winner. It’s like when I was doing research on medieval wine and those who served it and I couldn’t find any information. I Googled “Missing Medieval Servant” and just got the
message “Page Not Found.”
I asked John Collingwood, who owns Four Winds with his wife Sarah, what was special
He said: “It was a vintage sandwiched in between a crop loss of hail and then frost so it was really good to get a crop off.
“Each year we shoot thin to get the right canopy structure and we are also bunch thin which adds to the quality of the fruit.
“In 2023 there was a generous growing period without excessive rain or heat. We harvested the shiraz block and kept between two and three tonnes and we sold the rest of the fruit. So, we didn’t make a huge amount of this wine,” John said.
He also said that he hoped the business profile will “get a bit of a bump” from the win: “This is the first time that Canberra fruit has won the award so we are pleased for the district. Growers are likely to see an uptick in demand for local fruit.”
John mentioned that the wine was made by Jeremy Nascimbin, who now works at Mount Majura Vineyard. John has now wrested back that task.
Sarah chimed in, adding: “This year the case requirements for entry into the Jimmy Watson were lowered. Previously it was a 150 case minimum, but now it’s 100. We produced just over 110 cases so this wine qualified for entry. By the Sunday following the announcement we had sold out.”
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worth a read these summer holidays…
Canberra’s own Chris Hammer’s latest thriller is set close to home in a valley just inland from Batemans Bay.
of love, greed and crime and corruption is his most ambitious yet.
Ivan Lucic and Nell Buchanan return in The Valley, investigating the death of Wolfgang Burnside, a local, self-made millionaire who has transformed life in the valley, creating a community internet, building a solar farm, establishing a farmers’ market and developing an eco-resort next to the National Park.
To the locals “he was either some kind of saint, advancing the community, or he was in it for himself, only interested in making money”.
The investigation becomes more personal for Nell when she discovers Burnside is a close blood relative. In flashbacks, as the investigation progresses in the present, Hammer reveals the story of Nell’s mother’s life in the valley in 1994.
Told from multiple perspectives and two different narrative timelines, Hammer’s story
Hammer creates a powerful sense of place through vivid descriptions, as well as intriguing char acters with his trademark unusual names, including Police Sergeant Cornell Obswith and Teramina Hardcastle, the richest women in the valley. Hammer fans will love it.
RICHARD Osman is described by his publishers as “the biggest author of the decade”. His cosy crime novels, featuring four unlikely friends in a retirement village, have sold more that 10 million copies, with a Hollywood film already in production.
However, in his latest novel We Solve Murders, he’s left the retirement village behind, introducing new characters in
perhaps a new genre, cosy thrillers.
Amy Wheeler works for Maximum Impact Solutions, “the world’s biggest closeprotection agency”. Her current assignment is to protect Rosie D’Antonio on her private island off the South Carolina coast. Rosie is fabulously wealthy as she is “the world’s best selling novelist if you don’t count Lee Child”.
When both her life and Rosie’s come under threat, Amy turns to the only man she trusts, her father-in-law Steve Wheeler. Steve is a widower and a retired police officer, who lives in a village in the New Forest. What follows is a rollercoaster ride from the US to Dubai via the Caribbean, as Amy, Rosie and Steve outwit a hit-man sent by the notorious money smuggler, Francois Loubet.
Osman has the rare talent of combining humour with crime and, in his cosy world, violent criminals can be transformed by the decency of his irrepressible main characters. Crime, Osman style, is fun.
IAN Rankin is one of the most successful crime writers of the modern era. His iconic detective, John Rebus, has been described as one of British crime writing’s greatest characters alongside Holmes, Poirot and Morse.
In Midnight and Blue , Rebus is retired, approaching 70 and in prison. He’s been convicted of the attempted murder of Big Ger Cafferty (the cliffhanger ending of A Heart full of Headstones, 2022) and has been given a mandatory life sentence.
While hoping his appeal will succeed, Rebus is thankful he has a cell to himself and that he’s being protected by the dominant criminal in the jail, Daryll Christie.
When a prisoner is found murdered in his cell, Rebus’ former colleague Detective Sergeant Christine Esson arrives as part of the investigative team. It’s a classic locked room mystery and both prisoners and guards are suspects. The Governor turns to Rebus for help telling him the police “can’t
see or hear the things you do”.
Prison was a dangerous place for Rebus before, now with no badge, no authority, Rebus has to find a killer in a prison full of them.
At the same time, Detective Inspector Siobhan Clarke is investigating the disappearance of a 14-year-old schoolgirl and the universally despised Malcolm Fox is interfering in both investigations for his own personal advancement.
Midnight and Blue is vintage Rankin, clever and unpredictable. Rankin says that he gets “a visceral thrill” every time he starts a new Rebus and his readers do, too.
BENJAMIN
Stevenson’s third novel in his Ernest Cunningham series, Everyone
This Christmas has a Secret , sees his eponymous amateur detective, with a nod to Agatha Christie, solve two murders in the Blue Mountains two days before Christmas. “Two impossible murders. A woman covered in blood who doesn’t remember how it got on her. And a man decapitated… by a piece of paper”. There are “santa-fied clues aplenty” to help the reader solve the crimes, including an advent calendar and Secret Santa presents. It’s all impossibly silly.
Drizzle Boy, a smash-hit for Queensland Theatre, is coming to Canberra. A biting satire blending in magical realism, its story follows a young autistic boy, portrayed by Daniel R Nixon, in his first weeks at university as his parents adapt to his burgeoning independence. The Playhouse, November 13-16.
The director of the Art Gallery of NSW, Michael Brand, will be step ping down in July. Canberra raised and educated, Brand cut his teeth as curator of Asian Art at the National Gallery from 1988 to 1996 before treading the world stage as director of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts and the J Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles.
Anh Do’s bestselling book The Happiest Refugee has made readers laugh and cry for over a decade and his stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real-life stories, photos and filmed pieces. The B, Queanbeyan, November 20.
across ACT, NSW, SA, Victoria and Tasmania. A wayzgoose is an annual printmakers’ tradition dating back to the mid-1700s. Wentworth Avenue, Kingston, until December 14.
Canberra Qwire is staging a concert, The Sound of Us: A Celebration of Community in Song! in which they’ll be joined by Good Vibes from Yass as well as Voice Works and Vocal Local from Goulburn. Llewellyn Hall, November 24.
Liz Lea’s A Stellar Lineup returns for a third year, this time to mark the Olympic Games and the
November 22-23.
Four former Canberra region students and one from Newcastle — Freddie Klein, Tashana Hardy, Jack Bolton, Xanthe Allen, and Liam Jackson – will be here for a onenight opera gala after completing voice studies at the Queensland Conservatorium. Snow Concert Hall, November 20.
Inspired by the many poems celebrating imperfection, local potters Liz Crowe, Bronwen Wicks, Jacqui Keogh, Trevor Heldt and Lee Nelmshave combined to present an exhibition entitled, There is a Crack in Everything… That’s How the Light Gets In. Strathnairn Arts Centre Woolshed Gallery, Holt, November 16 to December 8.
By Joanne Madeline Moore
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
Joint ventures and trust issues are on the table but don’t spoil a potentially productive week by being a verbally blunt and/or physically reckless Ram. Slow down, think before you speak and consult with loved ones and colleagues before you make any important moves. Pluto shifts into your hopes-and-wishes zone mid-week (where it stays until 2043) so it’s a wonderful week to set transformative goals and dream powerful dreams for the years ahead.
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)
Powerful Pluto transits into your career zone mid-week (where it stays until 2043), so there are ambitious goals to set and lofty heights to reach over the next few years. Which will require hard work, passion and plenty of persistence. No procrastinating or snoozing on the sideline, Bulls! Then Friday’s Venus/Saturn link is fabulous for planning a heavenly holiday, networking with work colleagues or nurturing a long-term personal relationship.
GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)
It’s time for a well-organised pivot, Gemini! Smart Twins will examine all possibilities, especially ones that come from left field. With powerful Pluto transiting into your aspirations’ zone, it’s important to have ambitious long-term goals that you’re steadily working towards. You’ll have to be patient though, as you focus on bringing your dreams down to earth via a practical plan. Then – when everything is in place – you’ll know the perfect time to pounce.
CANCER (June 22 – July 23)
This week the planetary focus is on your daily routine and work zone but expect some challenging developments and stressful moments. Resist the urge to be a bossy, moody and cantankerous Crab. Try to ground your emotional energy and calm your restless mind. Your motto for the moment is from actress Goldie Hawn (who turns 79 on Thursday): “The ability to remain calm and focused in stressful situations is central to making positive decisions.”
LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)
It’s a lovely week for Lions! On Tuesday, there’s a terrific Sun/Neptune trine which boosts creativity and compassion, so you’ll feel like painting, writing, performing or helping someone in need. The Sun (your patron planet) shimmies into fellow fire sign Sagittarius (on Friday) when you’re fired up and ready to socialise, fraternise, travel and explore! Then the Sun links up with Pluto, which will help you take a deep dive into a special close relationship.
VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)
Many Virgos will feel very unsettled on Monday, when the Mercury/Jupiter opposition stirs up your restless side. Then Pluto powers into your work and wellbeing zones, where it stays until 2043! So your job and your health will be under the microscope for many years to come. It’s a good time to reorganise your daily routine and work schedule, plus make your diet healthier and your fitness routine more regular. Your motto for the moment? Health is wealth.
LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)
With Pluto transiting into your leisure and friendship zones, you’ll be drawn to exploring hobbies, people and places. A child’s talent blossoms, a new friendship flourishes or a burgeoning romance progresses to a deeper level. So expect a busy week full of pleasing partnerships, convivial conversations and colourful creativity. The weekend looks wonderful, courtesy of a work opportunity, an outdoor adventure or a favourite four-legged companion.
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)
Your power planet, Pluto, transits into Aquarius and makes a positive link with the Sun, which is fabulous for boosting personal charisma and generating creative ideas. Don’t be stubborn and unimaginative about your current plans and choices though. As birthday great, singer-songwriter Bjork observes: “I sometimes fall into the trap of doing what I think I should be doing, rather than what I want to be doing”. Keep your mind flexible and your options open.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)
There’s an impulsive Mercury/Jupiter opposition on Monday, which boosts your blunt and tactless side. So slow down, Sagittarius, and think (carefully) before you speak, especially when dealing with family and friends. Pluto powers into your communication and education zones mid-week, which could signal a learning renaissance as you consider studying a topic that has always fascinated you. Then the Sun shimmies into your sign, and it’s your turn to shine!
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)
After sixteen years, Pluto finally transits out of your sign and into your inner/outer security zone. Hopefully you’ve learnt some important, transformative lessons along the way. Now you’re set for a major transformation involving self-esteem or financial matters over the next few years. Clever Capricorns will concentrate on personal development and growing your nest egg for the future. Friday is fantastic for strategic, long-term planning.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)
Pluto transits into your sign, so curious, quirky Aquarians are keen to ricochet off in transformative new directions. And don’t worry about making messy, complicated (or embarrassing) mistakes along the way. Keep stretching your wings, trying new things and being the authentic you. Draw inspiration from actress Goldie Hawn (who celebrates her 79th birthday on Thursday): “I want to dig deep and ask - Who am I? What do I have to offer? What do I have to learn?”
PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)
Tuesday’s Sun/Neptune trine favours compassionate, creative and spiritual pursuits. But are your aspirations for the future ambitious enough? The current stars favour ruminating over big-picture ideas. And there’s no room for false modesty or passive Piscean procrastination as you enjoy talking, texting, posting, promoting and socialising, and then come up with a cracking plan and pursue it. Powerful Pluto also encourages you to dream big and dig deep.
Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2024
1 Who wrote “Paradise Lost”, John ...? (6) 8 Name the physicist who formulated the theory of relativity, Albert ... (8)
9 What is a more common name for the “doghouse”? (6)
10 Name a large glass of beer. (8)
11 What is a summerhouse called? (6)
12 Which gaseous element is used in orange-red tubular electrical discharge lamps? (4)
13 When one directs the preparation of a newspaper, one does what? (5)
16 Name an Australian country and western singer, Slim ... (5)
19 To force in or down by repeated somewhat light strokes, is to do what? (4)
21 What is quinsy or croup known as? (6)
22 What might we call a person involved in country life? (8)
23 What is a scarf worn around the neck? (6)
24 Name one of the rulers in a form of government in which the power is vested in a few. (8)
25 What are the results of producing? (6)
2 Reykjavik is the capital of which North Atlantic republic? (7)
3 What is the straight portion of a survey line between curves? (7)
4 Name the US country and rock singer, Willie ... (6)
5 To overwhelm with amazement, is to do what? (7)
6 Which former copper coins were equal to one twelfth of a shilling? (7)
7 What is a state of society without government or law? (7)
13 Name a renowned US essayist and poet, Ralph Waldo ... (7)
14 Which term describes inactivity or sluggishness? (7)
15 Starlike is implied by which word? (7)
17 To assign a person to higher status, is to do what? (7)
18 What is a large drinking cup, now usually with a handle and sometimes a hinged cover? (7)
20 To be unequal quality, or irregular, is to be what? (6)
