‘DISRESPECTFUL’: THE NATION MUST DO BETTER
JACK KERSHAW makes a plea to the prime minister
STOP TREATING US WITH CONTEMPT ON TRAM COSTS
JON STANHOPE & KHALID AHMED plead for transparency
NIGHT MOVES
KASSANDRA HOBBS leads the mission to bring the war memorial’s big birds home
Why won’t Barr remove failing health minister?
MICHAEL MOORE
The hard message is take KEEPING UP THE ACT goes to the Dickson shops
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NEWS / climate change
Botanical artist pledges 3000 days of drawings
By Elizabeth KOVACS
Local botanical artist Sharon Field has decided to paint a plant, object or animal a day for 3000 consecutive days in an active stand against the effects of climate change. She is 1000 days into that goal.
In 2021, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change issued a warning to keep the rise in temperatures below 1.5C by 2030 or risk losing significant numbers of wildlife.
A volunteer firefighter for 20 years, Sharon wasn’t a stranger to seeing deteriorating ecosystems and the negative impact of humankind on flora and fauna.
Sharon thought about the future, realising that, on March 22 2022, 2030 was only 3000 days away, which didn’t leave much time to change the world.
Sharon gave herself the mission of drawing and painting a single plant, animal or object each day until 2030 in an active stand against the effects of climate change.
Working entirely in pen, Sharon says the permanency of her chosen utensil has “archival ink” meaning it
INDEX
Arts & Entertainment 23-25
Crossword 27
Dining & Wine 24
Gardening 26
Letters 12
News 3-13
Politics 4, 6, 11
Streaming 25 Sudoku 27
Botanical artist Sharon Field… “It’s like a journey of 1000 miles, because it’s just one step after another.”
is forever written in time.
Utilising eight-metre scrolls as her medium, Sharon says her work is something of a climate change timeline.
“When you think of a scroll, all the stuff that’s on the completed part of the scroll is the past, it’s history,” she says.
“You can’t change history, but you
can change something in the present.
“So, when I’m drawing, that’s the present day, you can make decisions about the present day.”
Sharon says the part of the scroll that hasn’t been touched is something akin to the future.
“It’s a blank slate and we can influence that future if we’re smart.”
Sharon is now nearing her third
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year of her project.
“It’s like anything when you start something, you have to be self-disciplined but after a while, it’s routine,”
“It’s like a journey of 1000 miles, because it’s just one step after another.”
Sharon’s drawings take anywhere from an hour to multiple hours, sometimes returning to complete the drawing the next day, and she says she has no set plan for the sizing or location of each drawing on the scroll.
“I can’t think ahead,” she says.
“If you think about nature, Mother Nature is pretty clever, just putting things together, and it all works.”
Sharon’s scrolls reveal lines marking the rising climate levels from 1880 to the present, with sections above and below the line differing in colours and black/white to show the greater impact.
Sharon plans to slightly adjust how she represents climate change statistics in her scrolls each time to show the greater impact.
In her next scroll, she plans to show the great difference in average temperatures, with her drawings coloured from left to right in blue and greens to reds and browns.
Her final scroll will feature endangered Australian flora and fauna in black and white, a somewhat dire warning of the repercussions of negligence.
Sharon’s scrolls have already taken her around the world, being shown in America, the UK, France, the Netherlands and Singapore as well as across Australia.
Memories from these travels have been documented in the representation of various plants that she saw while travelling.
“It’s a bit of a visual diary,” she says.
Her work now has a following and Sharon finds herself overwhelmed with gratitude from the important conversations she gets to have with her audience.
“There’s a flow-on effect,” she says.
“I had someone tell me that they felt guilty about the weeds in their garden before realising that they’re just as important as everything else to have a flourishing ecosystem.”
The scrolls, now on display at the Belko Arts centre until March 22 is the first time that Sharon has seen all of the scrolls opened together.
“It’s amazing to see because I’m only ever focusing on one drawing at a time,” she says.
Hitting her 1000th drawing, Sharon says she’s started an accidental tradition of repeating kangaroo grass in her drawings.
“It was the first drawing that I did and each scroll starts with kangaroo grass,” she says.
“My 1000th drawing was kangaroo grass!”
Photo: Elizabeth Kovacs
POLITICS / it’s time for a royal commission into ACT hospitals
Why won’t Barr remove failing health minister?
Here we go again! Groundhog Day! In late February, I pointed to this constant reiteration by the health minister that “we are working on it” and things will “get better soon”.
She might use different language –but the sentiment is the same.
And now our leading orthopaedic surgeon, Prof Paul Smith, has tendered his resignation through frustration at failures in the system.
He has worked in the ACT hospital system for more than a quarter of a century with his job becoming increasingly challenging. He cited the deteriorating environment, particu larly over the last six months, as the prime reason for his resignation.
When will there be an appropriate intervention?
The chief minister has not taken the health minister to task nor moved her to a less demanding portfolio. But then, he may think he does not have enough talent in his team to be able to find someone who is capable enough to handle the health portfolio effectively.
Before the last election, the Liberals proposed a royal commission into the ACT hospital system. Then they took the same proposal to the most recent election. It is something that ought to be supported by the Greens and the two independents in the Assembly.
six-month period that was cited by Health Minister Rachel StephenSmith on January 29.
At the time she was arguing that an injection of $227.3 million would resolve the issues in the Emergency Department in particular, but across the Canberra Public Hospitals.
No doubt Ms Stephen-Smith is working hard and trying her best. However, her work has not proven effective, and a much more adept hand is needed to determine the extent of the problems and the actions required for an effective remedy. This health minister has had opportunity after opportunity – but
No doubt Ms StephenSmith is trying her best. However, her work has not proven effective. This health minister has had opportunity after opportunity – but the system continues to deteriorate.
the system continues to deteriorate.
The ACT hospital system has moved under Labor from leading Australia across a wide range of criteria to being amongst the worst. Cutting the finances to the hospitals over the last few years has not helped.
According to the ABC, Prof Smith has stated “the hospital administration… has actively been engaged in a process of disengagement with clinicians.
“Every gain we’ve made in terms of achieving quality of service has come at a significant cost in terms of battling with administration to try to get the resources to achieve quality.
“There is an evaporation in the attitude of collaboration”.
Who is it that does not understand the importance of the role of specialists in the hospital system? The minister? The administration? With the support of the nursing staff and other professionals, they are the ones with the
skills to look after the patients.
The fundamental problem for Prof Smith is “administrative interference in clinician decision-making”.
He is not alone. According to another orthopaedic surgeon, Dr Sindy Vrancic, there are now around 20 per cent of her colleagues who have tendered their resignations.
After the resignations became public, the health minister launched a scathing attack on the orthopaedic surgeons suggesting that they are the cause of the problems.
“One of the challenges we’ve had with some craft groups”, she chided, “and this includes orthopaedics – is that they’ve basically been keeping their own list of people they want to see, their patients”.
Oh dear! Orthopaedic surgeons are determining the priority needs of their patients!
The Minister added: “That’s not visible to the system, but they’re also not taking into account the rest of the system when they’re making those decisions”.
Oh dear! The orthopaedic surgeons are prioritising their patients over bureaucratic decision making!
Then came the usual Stephen-
Smith narrative. You know the one. “We are working on it, and all will be well soon”.
In this case “an ‘escalation process’ is already underway” and, therefore, “if a surgeon is concerned that their patient has been bumped from a list inappropriately… they will be able to raise concerns”.
That is, of course, with the bureaucrats who have already overridden their decisions. She added that this system “is already in train”.
If the chief minister will not act, who will? The ACT Assembly has the numbers to support the concept of a Royal Commission – as proposed by the Liberals.
How much more deterioration will we see in the hospital system? What will it take to force the hand of the government?
Michael Moore is a former member of the ACT Legislative Assembly and an in dependent minister for health. He has been a political columnist with “CityNews” since 2006.
Failing Health Minister Rachel StephenSmith, characterised by KEEPING UP THE ACT as the Minister for Declining Health Services.
COVER STORY / heading back to Anzac Hall
Memorial’s big birds ready to go bump in the night
Towering hulks of military equipment will be moved through the capital in the middle of the night as work on the Australian War Memorial hits a new milestone, reports KAT WONG .
A decades-old military plane will soon come out of storage in the dead of night for one more mission.
The Australian War Memorial’s transport aircraft C-130 Hercules is one of many iconic artefacts that will be taken on an odyssey across Canberra as the institution’s controversial $550 million renovation reaches a new milestone.
At about 10 metres tall with a hulking wingspan, transporting the plane from the memorial’s storage facility to its almost-complete Anzac Hall is a logistical feat.
Two cranes will be required to load it on to a truck, which must take an almost 40 kilometre detour – as the aircraft’s height could clash with Canberra’s light rail infrastructure – and arrive at its destination before 5.30am.
And that’s not even the most difficult part of the move.
The memorial’s collection, logistics
and projects manager Kassandra Hobbs, who has done most of the heavy lifting, says one of the largest objects to be transported is the Hornet fighter jet.
Not only is it wider than the Hercules, it must be transported in one piece which means trees must be trimmed, road signs have to be removed and electrical lines must be adjusted before its journey through the capital.
Ms Hobbs has been planning the installation with a team of specialists and engineers since 2019, but some
things remain out of their hands.
“You plan for all the possibilities, but the one thing we can’t control is the weather,” she said.
“Something like a rain shower will throw everything apart.”
While some artefacts, such as submarines, can get wet, Ms Hobbs is also transporting objects that have undergone significant conservation work.
For example, the German V2 rocket and Meillerwagen launching trailer, which were used during World War II, have never been displayed before
because of structural issues.
“Before, it couldn’t move an inch, and now it needs to move all the way into town,” Ms Hobbs said.
The Australian War Memorial’s new Anzac Hall is slated for completion in 2026 and will be able to host even more items with more than 3000 expected to populate its displays.
Visitor favourites such as the G for George heavy bomber, which flew 90 missions over Germany and occupied Europe during World War II and is considered one of the most prolific surviving Avro Lancasters,
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will return to Anzac Hall with new viewing angles and context.
“We’re able to flesh out those stories a lot more, bring in new objects and also revisit some of the things we already had and be able to tell more,” Ms Hobbs said.
Anzac Hall found itself at the centre of controversy after it was revealed it would be demolished as part of major renovations announced under the former coalition government.
The award-winning building was less than 20 years old at the time. –AAP
One of the F/A-18 Hornets to be displayed in the newly built wing of the Australian War Memorial.
Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP
A German V2 rocket is among items to be shifted to the new wing of the Australian War Memorial.
Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP
The hard message is take a stand or take a fall
Recently in the US, leading members of the Democrats attended a retreat hosted by the centre-left group, Third Way.
The “Comeback Retreat” produced a document that makes for fascinating reading. It is blunt and honest, something rare from a friendly review, but reminiscent of what Labour in the UK had to do to win and keep office with Tony Blair and “New Labour”.
What also makes it a good read is how so much of what that document discusses could also be applied to Labor here in Australia. For example, the perception of a lack of patriotism, and then the perception that minority, far-left groups dictate the narrative and policy on certain issues, such as immigration.
The weak messaging and comms point is very pertinent to Labor – recent policy announcements have been lost in the 24-second social and digital media cycle, and lacked connection and integration with other policies and the leader.
Announcements have been too vague and detail heavy, disengaging some voters who can’t see any tangible immediate benefit or changes to their lives. This is especially so on cost of living, where the Coalition’s direct messaging on cuts to incomes has
Labor is getting into an ugly habit of micro-managing leaders when they become leader. Gillard had to tell us we were about to see the real Julia again.
Photo: Alan Porritt/AAP
been pushed hard in the marginals of Victoria, NSW, SA, and Tasmania.
These key marginals, identified by groups such as Redbridge, are moving towards the Coalition, and even though they stand to pick up the majority of them, it still may not be enough to get close enough to minority government with friendly cross benchers such as Andrew Gee and Bob Katter.
Yet Labor seems to be wandering around in the dark when it comes to their messaging and comms, a contrast to the concentrated strategy of Dutton, even if it is off a very small policy base.
This is a throwback to how the Coalition approached the Voice – start
Labor seems to be wandering around in the dark when it comes to their messaging and comms, a contrast to the concentrated strategy of Dutton, even if it is off a very small policy base.
small, stay small and let the vagueness and broad messaging of the government be its own undoing. Voters will get lost in big messages, and fail to see any tangible or immediate policy delivery, so feel hoodwinked by Labor.
This feeds a cycle of distrust in future messaging, further hurting impact and momentum. Following the Coalition strategy here, anything they do is seen nearly as the opposite – tight, focused and highlighting the risk in the inherent policy implementation of the government. Throw in as well how this feeds the perception of how it is in the grips of vocal minority, far-left stakeholder groups who control it far better than Labor’s own leader.
Essentially, you are then talking about your own strengths, but in contrast with those of Labor, so a lack of policy does not become the focus. It is smart, modern, effective politics. Yet this is a strategy years in
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the making, and Labor, who assumed that they would have at least two terms before a close election in 2028, are now faced with an uphill battle to retain majority government in the next term.
Part of this links to another point raised in the Comeback Retreat document – being far too reactive and not proactive enough. Several issues this term of government support this notion domestically.
• Gambling ads? Reactive and scared to take a stand lest an election campaign be fought against them by gambling groups.
• Antisemitism? Reactive and then looked weak on policy approaches and implementations of those convicted of hate crimes.
• Defence? Reactive, and again looked weak in response to pressure from the US to lift spending.
• Supermarket duopoly and pricing? Reactive, and still to bring in criminal sanctions against those who take advantage of market power on issues such as shrinkflation and disguising price increases through sales promotions. And we haven’t even got to climate issues such as new coal mines and
the hot issue in two marginals in Tasmania, salmon farming.
Labor is getting into an ugly habit of micro-managing leaders when they become leader. Gillard had to tell us we were about to see the real Julia again. And Albanese has rarely been at the Q and A level he was before he won a tight tussle to become leader and eventually PM.
Brand protection is one thing, but this fear of what could happen if leaders lead is hurting Labor. The benefits gained in a strategy best suited to a traditional media landscape are just not worth it any more.
All they need to do to see the benefits of the opposite approach is to see the comeback of Peter Dutton. Or perhaps they need to start planning for a Comeback Retreat of their own for the second half of this year.
Dr Andrew Hughes is a lecturer with the Research School of Management at ANU where he special ises in political marketing and advertising.
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BRIEFLY Helping voters understand the candidates
The Canberra Alliance for Participatory Democracy (CAPaD) wants to help voters understand their candidates better by inviting candidates and voters to candidate forums.
CAPaD has come up with a set of expectations for how MPs should carry out their role. Besides qualities such as personal integrity, Canberrans want to be listened to, educated about how we can participate more in and foster our understanding of political processes, and be kept up to date on MPs’ contributions to parliamentary and government outcomes.
The remaining candidate forums in the series are:
Senators: March 22, 2pm, Woden Valley Uniting Church, Gillies Street, Curtin, 2pm, March 22.
Seat of Canberra: Woden Valley Uniting Church, Gillies Street, Curtin, 2pm, March 23.
Seat of Bean: Tuggeranong Community Centre Hall, 245 Collishaw Street, Greenway, 3pm, March 29. Register at the links on the CAPaD website (canberra-alliance.org.au/ elections)
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LEGAL OPINION / civil fines
The fine’s fine while the managers
Telstra is the latest company to be slapped with a civil fine, this time $600,000 for spamming Australians with more than 10 million texts. But HUGH SELBY wonders if civil penalties are really acting as a deterrent.
This article is about gobsmacking civil fines (known as civil penalties), now a feature of protective legislation such as work and safety in the building and transport industries, and consumer protection in the insurance, telco and superannuation industries.
The questions are first, whether these fines are paid, and second, are they acting as a deterrent? Informed answers are welcome.
In February, CityNews reported on a local building company being fined not much less than a quarter million dollars for work safety breaches in 2022. One of its workers was trapped because formwork was not installed as per instructions. To have followed the instructions would have cost very little.
The worker, fortunately, survived. It was their first day on the job. They had no training, no white card, no asbestos training and no site induction.
The incident wreaks of penny pinching and incompetence. However, whether or not the fine in whole or part is paid depends on the funds in the building company accounts.
If the company can’t pay the fine then it is wound up. In that case the fine is illusory. It is never paid.
Business operators of every industry and profession have long chosen to incorporate their business because doing so limits their exposure to personal liability.
This is a fundamental part of modern capitalism. A shonky operator can have their failed company “sell” the name of the business to a new company also set up by the shonky operator. Life then goes on as before.
Although the ACT Work Health and Safety Act provides for the prosecution of individuals within a building company, as well as the building company entity, the recent report does not suggest that any individual was prosecuted.
Fines for individuals are much less than for companies. However, if an individual fails to pay a fine then they
can be made bankrupt. A bankrupt cannot be a director of a company. That fact may increase the chances that the fine, albeit for a smaller amount, is paid.
Also in February the Sydney Morning Herald reported that our largest superannuation fund, AustralianSuper, was fined $27 million for overcharging around 90,000 members to the tune of $69 million.
Those members have been compensated. The case went to the Federal Court following a joint investigation by ASIC and APRA (the prudential regulator).
AustralianSuper management was alerted to the problem in 2015. It did nothing until 2018 and not enough until 2021. The court noted that some, but not all, staff had forgotten that AustralianSuper was required to act in the best interests of its individual members. One staffer stood out in repeatedly pointing out the problem
over some years.
That said, AustralianSuper did not profit from its contraventions.
The judgment usefully distils the purposes of the fine, saying: “Civil penalty provisions… are intended to secure a public protective purpose by ensuring that wrongdoers, and would-be wrongdoers, are adequately deterred.
“As the parties submitted, this requires putting a price on contraventions that is sufficiently high to ensure that the penalty cannot be seen as an acceptable cost of doing business, and that contraventions will be seen as an economically irrational choice.”
That’s $27 million that might otherwise benefit member accounts. Which leads me to ponder if the members haven’t been done over twice: first, by their fund mismanagement, and then by the Commonwealth taking $27 million plus a half mill in costs (I am not a fund member).
The judgment does look at the effect of the penalty on members. AustralianSuper keeps a “trustee risk reserve fund” that is topped up by an annual fee payable out of the fund assets.
As of mid 2023 it had more than 1.2 million members and $311 billion in assets. That works out at a fine contribution of $22.50 per member, or a pittance until you have no money.
In Australia, there are 1000 million in a billion. Hence if we calculate
how much the $27 million fine is as a fraction of $311,000 million assets, the result is 0.00008. With all due respect to the public servants, the lawyers, and the diligent judge, what kind of deterrent is that?
ASIC’s 2023/24 Annual Report records that the value of the civil fines was $185.4 million in the previous year, $90.8 million for 2023/24. The bumper previous year is explained by “several record penalties”.
From small builder to multi-billion dollar enterprise, it’s people who stuff up, people who should be held to account for what they did and didn’t do.
These enormous dollar penalties are like a dazzling tapestry, hung to avoid the hard work of identifying who was responsible. The corporate entity (and its beneficiaries or shareholders) takes the rap for those who have failed to comply with the law. Would we all be better off if we replace the existing system with one that requires the managers of mismanagement to “show cause” why they should not be penalised for their shortcomings? Oh dear. Shock, horror.
Former barrister Hugh Selby is the CityNews legal columnist. His free podcasts on “Witness Essentials” and “Advocacy in court: preparation and performance” can be heard on the best known podcast sites.
JACK KERSHAW has written, “as matter of national importance”, an open letter to the prime minister describing the stage 2 light rail route as disrespectful, destructive and failing to do justice to the capital. “The nation can and must do better,” he says. This is an abridged version of his letter.
Dear Prime Minister,
Some Australians may be critical of the national capital, seeing it as pampered, and a waste of money.
However, when they come here, or see it on TV or film, they invariably modify their views, and embrace an exemplary, world-class national capital city, replete with architecture, engineering and landscaping that is expressive, uplifting and respectful, especially in the Central National Area.
Certainly, the achievement of that was in the minds of Walter and Marion Burley Griffin, as well as the politicians, decision makers, and government officials who embraced the Griffins’ designs, and got on with the delivery of the best capital city they all could envisage.
Commonwealth and Kings Avenues form the two symmetrical sides of the place-defining National Triangle, together with their respective handsome matching bifurcated bridges over Lake Burley Griffin.
The space between the twinning or
bifurcation of each bridge continues the optics of fine landscaped median strips between the two carriageways of the avenues.
There appears to be no evidence that it was intention of early planners and the bridge designers, to use the space between the two carriageways of the bridges, at a later date, for say, tramtracks; or worse, in the case of the lake crossing, to build a new bridge for trams in between the two bridges, as currently proposed – an expensive and disruptive process.
Commonwealth Avenue, notably its bridges and median-strip landscaping; and the concern is that such obvious and appropriate citations have been excluded, in a paranoid way, in order to facilitate and expedite the installation of tramlines in the avenue and bridge median spaces.
national precinct.
The route has been described by one commentator as “constipated and myopic orthodoxy, redolent of the unsuccessful competition entries for the design of the Sydney Opera House”.
Part of its installation is underway (stage 2a), but there’s still time to get the subject route right, in the national interest, with panache and verve, and in a more timely way, while still meeting its ACT requirements – in fact, it’s essential!
• Along Lawson Crescent South near the the southern shoreline of Acton Peninsula.
However, in the current plan for light rail stage 2, the spaces between carriageways along Commonwealth Avenue, including at the bridges, will be used for intrusive tramtrack infrastructure, and that clearly, is just plainly the wrong thing to do.
That’s also particularly the case with the median strip of Commonwealth Avenue south, where a very important cultural landscape, consisting of many significant established trees, will be sacrificed for the tramlines.
Despite comprehensive heritage studies, no binding heritage list-
At present, stage 2 light rail is divided into two parts – 2a, city to the lake near Commonwealth Park and 2b, from there to Woden via Commonwealth Avenue.
Initial work is commencing on the former, but the timing of latter appears to depend on the completion of separate extensive repair and refurbishment work on Commonwealth Avenue Bridge. Many wonder if stage 2b will ever materialise.
The current design and siting of subject light rail infrastructure falls short of that expected for arguably, Australia’s most important
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Installing stage 2a (Civic to Commonwealth Park via City Hill), is crazy, primarily because it relies for extension south on using the critical Commonwealth Avenue Bridge and the southern section of that avenue – noting that the rearrangement of London Circuit at City Hill South has achieved its actual raison d’être – creating new development sites (on the footprints of former clover-leaf road elements).
However, under the reported current construction contract, the stage 2a section extending from the existing stage 1 terminus on Northbourne Avenue, around London Circuit as far as Edinburgh Avenue, could proceed.
Then, the tram should take the optimum route to Capital Hill, and stops, would include:
• Edinburgh Avenue’s northern-edge.
• The ANU, near the Shine Dome.
• The existing Liversidge Street land bridge over Parkes Way.
Then over a form of Griffin’s missing curving central lake crossing, which, unlike inserting a new bridge in between the two carriageways of Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, would be a straightforward undertaking with regard to the impact on traffic during construction, overall project construction time, cost, heritage references, and other factors; spanning the lake to:
• Lennox Gardens North.
• Flynn Drive.
• Coronation Drive.
• Across Commonwealth Avenue.
• Across the National Triangle north.
• The Barton office and residential precinct.
• Parliament House south, and…
• On to Woden.
With respect, given the locale, the Commonwealth should take responsibility for most of the cost of this section of light rail 2, and on say, to the western end of Adelaide Avenue, past The Lodge.
I urge you and your government to adopt the above revised tram route, and to give direction to the ACT government to follow suit.
Jack Kershaw FRAIA RIBA (retired), former president, Canberra Community Action on Acton Inc.
LIGHT RAIL /
why taxpayers deserve to know the tram costs
Stop treating us with contempt on light rail costs
“We would be grateful if either Prime Minister Albanese or Chief Minister Barr would cease treating us with such contempt and release the light rail business case. Assuming that is, that a business case was prepared.” JON STANHOPE & KHALID AHMED revisit the political miseries of light rail.
We have written extensively in recent years about the claims made by the ACT government (including in the business case for Stage 1) about the merits of light rail.
We have focused on the issues that the government claims that light rail will address and its impact on the ACT’s finances.
We have also highlighted the regressive budgetary choices that the government has been forced to make because of the impact of light rail on the budget, most notably in diverting significant funds from public housing and the public hospital system.
We have also noted the ongoing opportunity costs resulting from the diversion of funds to the construction of light rail including the fact that, to date, light rail has not engendered an increase in public transport usage but rather has resulted in a substitution of patronage from buses to the tram and, notably, at almost double the cost per boarding.
We are not alone, and fellow columnists have raised concerns regarding the tram’s flawed densification objectives and the government’s reckless approach to planning policy (Mike Quirk, March 4), disregard of well-established evidence in pursuing this option (Beatrice Bodart-Bailey, January 25), its affordability into the future (Michael Moore, February 28), with annual costs reaching more than a billion dollars by the start of Stage 2B (Richard Johnston, February 26).
Numerous correspondents with backgrounds in relevant disciplines have likewise made compelling but negative comments on the project.
Tellingly, we are yet to see, including in the mainstream media, any cogent and objective case for light rail.
We do acknowledge the regular commentary based on nebulous notions such as “transformational”, “future proofing” or “for the future”, which of course melt away under the harsh light of evidence and reason.
Regrettably, it is quite common for publicly expressed concerns about the light rail project, which are founded on facts, analysis or reason to be dismissed as coming from “haters”.
Notably such “arguments” invariably come from lobbyists and advocates with a vested interest. It is also surely relevant in any consideration of the justification for light rail that a highly esteemed academic, who initially supported the project and was cited by government, has since withdrawn his support, having become aware of the alternative technologies not just in development but in operation.
A significant and concerning feature of the ACT light rail project is that it reflects a major change in culture and the abandonment of well-established, professional management and administrative practices within the ACT government and notably the ACT public service.
In seeking to understand the abandonment by the ACT government of all objectivity in the blind pursuit of this project we have concluded that the thinking of the Labor/Green brains trust has been along the following lines:
• If you decide on the procurement method and financing structure of a project years before its scope in a “power-sharing agreement”, then due process and proper financial management are tradeable for retaining that power.
• If you accept the reasons for the project as stated in the Stage 1 business case, your eyes will glaze over when contemplating “complex ity thinking ideas”.
• If you accept a less than 49 cents return on every dollar of a $2 billion commitment of pub lic money, it is easier to accept wastage of (say) $77 million as a mere learning experience.
• If you accept – actually plan for – a cost overrun of a third of the base estimate when starting a project, lax discipline in costing and cost overruns become the norm and a gullible, progressive and disconnected middle-class electorate will yawn and vote you back into office.
• When you sign a $577 million contract without an open tender, the ‘value for money’ and open competition cease to be principles for other procurements.
The list goes on.
Too long a bow to draw, you say. We could recite the counterarguments from the project advocates, so called independent and objective observers and the Labor faithful.
After all, this is not the only instance of an uneconomic large project, and not the first time standard financial management and administrative rules and practices have been ignored. There are abundant examples in Australia and across the world, and considerable academic literature focused on such behaviour.
It is, unfortunately, the case that the usual structures and processes of accountability and checks on poor practice have failed in the ACT, thereby rewarding and sustaining it.
The scale of this undertaking, relative to the size of the ACT budget and economy, is very large and rare at the subnational level.
The ACT simply does not have the capacity for such an undertaking.
To understand the debilitating effects of the tram project across the spectrum of services, consider the position of health managers and doctors, who had meticulously planned for a significant increase in demand, and a commensurate increase in hospital capacity and staffing, only to be confronted with repeated deferrals in capital investment and cuts to growth funds to accommodate the recurrent cost of the project.
There has been a revolving door of senior managers. There has been a flow of lame and unsubstantiated excuses about complexity and a flood of NSW patients, advice to patients not to turn up at the hospital with symptoms that any clinician would advise not to ignore, and the spin doctoring of data – unacceptable, but understandable.
When more than a thousand public housing tenants living on Northbourne Avenue were evicted, never to be heard of again, many of them with complex needs, and the stock sold to pay for the tram, it was unsurprising that the next program designed by ACT Housing officials and presumably endorsed by Cabinet, was premised on the forced eviction of hundreds of vulnerable, mainly elderly women.
One assumes that Housing ACT based its decision-making on the example set by the relevant Labor/Green Ministers.
As an aside we await with interest the decision of the Supreme Court on this latter program of evictions. We have previously written about the rather odd, self-serving
complexity as well as patients with low needs turning up at hospitals.
Minister Yvette Berry publicly denied that public housing stock was sold off to pay for the tram – despite the existence of an agreement to this effect signed by Chief Minister Andrew Barr. She also chastised housing tenants for standing up for their rights before being forced to abandon the program.
In the same vein, we were stunned when the Federal Minister for Transport, Catherine
would cease treating us with such contempt and release the business case. Assuming that is, that a business case was prepared.
We will expand, in a future article, on the issues we have raised above and on Minister King’s comments.
Jon Stanhope is a former chief minister of the ACT and Dr Khalid Ahmed a former senior ACT Treasury official.
‘Cruel and desperate’ government fines parents
On a recent Friday, at 3.15pm, at Telopea Park School, I saw again just how mean, cruel and desperate the ACT government has become in trying to deal with its disastrous $9billion+ deficit.
Having deliberately or incompetently failed to provide sufficient parking for adults to collect children from this and most other schools, the ACT government times a run past of a parkinginfringement van to coincide with the moment when parents parked in a “pick up and set down zone” have to briefly exit their vehicles to collect their child from behind the school gates just 10 metres away.
Is a dragway next to get the nod?
The school will not allow young children to leave without an accompanying adult. Cars also double park, but over several years I have never observed a problem with the way families are forced to deal with a problem created by the ACT government in the first place.
It is just revenue raising by picking on the most vulnerable, not a safety issue. So please stop fining young families who are already struggling with the cost of living and instead, do your job and provide more short-term parking in this and other schools.
Dianne M Deane, via email
Does the start of construction work on the Gungahlin community centre mean the new or refurbished Canberra International Dragway will be next to get the nod?
Genuine regional, national and international drag racers and hoons have been wanting to get off the streets for, wow, 27 years now.
That’s since the privately financed, constructed and professionally managed venue was forced to close due to dilly dallying, consecutive ACT governments deciding, well, the Very Fast Train and or the Parcel Flight Hub weren’t happening, leaving a desolate and destroyed location.
Michael Attwell, Dunlop
Take advice when dealing with Trump
We are living in dangerous times with the leaders of the US and Russia having serious personality disorders.
While I have no expertise in the area, Trump and Putin seem to exhibit characteristics consistent with anti-social personality disorder (ASPD) including:
• A strong belief in their own importance and a sense of deserving special treatment;
• Difficulty understanding or caring about the feelings of others, and a lack of guilt or regret for their actions;
• Use charm and charisma to control and exploit others, often through lying and manipulation;
• Use others for personal gain;
• React with anger and hostility when their sense of self-worth is threatened and
• Pursue unrealistic goals and engage in risky behaviours.
People with ASPD are sometimes labelled sociopaths or psychopaths. I’ll leave it to the experts for a clinical diagnosis. Trump’s niece, Mary Trump, a psychologist, has labelled him a narcissistic sociopath.
Their personality disorders could explain Trump and Putin’s heartlessness in relation to Ukraine and Trump’s attitude to the plight of Palestinians.
Sheer incompetence may also explain Trump’s economic, health, environment and social policies.
Those dealing with Trump should seek
advice from psychiatrists on how to best respond to his complex and dangerous personality.
Mike Quirk, Garran
‘Deceit of politicians’ is spot on, Mike
In his satisfying excoriation of the Canberra light rail project, Mike Quirk uses a collective noun new to me: “a deceit of politicians” (“Bloody minded politics is what’s driving the tram”, CN March 6).
Although a Google search suggests that he is not its inventor, I commend Mr Quirk for using a descriptor that is justified in the context of his article, a descriptor that deserves to make its way into the Australian English lexicon.
Helen Jackson, Higgins
What’s the usefulness of servitude to survival?
Christina Vogels’ feature (City News Mar 6) about the emergence of tradwives concludes with a curiously bland statement about the uncertain costs of relinquishing the gains of feminism for a life of service.
Two costs spring to mind with crystal clarity: dependence, financial, social and emotional dependence on a husband, ie one person.
It’s called putting all your eggs in one basket, an inherently risky situation.
And insecurity: the husband may well be
a good person but he may die, become ill or disabled – and a wife, as servant, may simply be sacked. What then is the usefulness of servitude to survival?
Less certain but possible costs include unhappiness. My parents liked each other; my father was a reasonable, devoted man who strove close to his limits to provide for and support his family.
Nevertheless, being a conventional wife did not suit my mother and she was often a pretty miserable individual. Exercising her talents outside the home – even just exercising her talents fittingly, instead of trying to force her creativity into homemaking and child-rearing – would likely have made her happier; she may have lived longer; she and my father may have enjoyed their marriage more.
Besides, what real man wants to be served? Wouldn’t he rather the challenge and reliability of a mutual partnership, the comfort and fun of genuine companionship? Being solely responsible for a subservient and dependent household would be rather lonely and worrying, I imagine.
In discussing the column with others, increased vulnerability to domestic violence and the difficulty of escaping it from a situation of dependence, was the first cost that occurred to many.
A discussion of a social phenomenon ought to include more than a description of its characteristics; analysis makes a discussion truly useful.
Fiona Blackburn, via email
Slogans and platitudes won’t win the day
While I admire Peter Dutton’s optimism, it will take more than just sloganism and platitudes to win the upcoming federal election.
Every time Dutton sounds off, all I hear is the ubiquitous Canberra bashing and the ever-popular pitches about national security, the cost of living and cutting the public service.
Dutton was super quick to exploit the Chinese warship stoush and announce an exorbitant $3 billion Defence spend to buy 28 additional F-35 strike fighter jets.
Manufacturing these planes has previously been beset with delays and cost blowouts and the current delivery date is not for at least another five years. Additionally, some Defence analysts have already called into question if these F-35s are in fact, fit for purpose.
As for cost of living: this is a global issue that is plaguing incumbent governments worldwide and Australia is largely at the behest of the world’s largest economies, principally America and China.
No doubt sacking public servants – as many as 36,000 – will be popular with voters outside of Canberra, but has Dutton guaranteed that essential services can still be provided with a reduced public service workforce? He hasn’t and he can’t.
Declan Mcgrath, via email
To lefties, anything right of the far left is hard right
Michael Moore in his weekly column (CN March 6) bemoans the fact that people are moving to the centre right globally in opposition to the far-left-wing parties of the last 15 years, even though lefties like Moore like to portray anything right of the far left as hard right.
Maybe Moore is disappointed people are over the constant woke policies of the far-left governments.
They have been pushed through educational institutions, corporations, major businesses, the media, films and on our televisions.
The Voice was a good example. People have finally had enough and are voting accordingly.
The constant pandering to minorities, confusing
patriotism with some kind of extreme nationalism, the push towards unproven climate change and the cultish morality that goes with it, is what the everyday person is now starting to see through.
Without any proof, Moore in his final paragraph states that the swing to the right will serve the wealthy. It is under progressive governments that small businesses are more likely to fail, unlike the wellheeled public service that benefits greatly from the progressives at the expense of the poor taxpayer.
I wonder if those progressives like Moore would be so inclined if they had to go out and find a job that doesn’t rely on the public purse and doesn’t have all the entitlements of the tax-funded public service.
Ian Pilsner, Weston
Humanity comes at a steep cost to other species
As a species, we could have chosen to evolve along many possible paths.
We’ve chosen an industrial path, with every aspect of our lives increasingly governed by convenience and technology.
But humanity’s development has come at a steep cost to Earth’s other species, and it astonishes me how few people consider this in their daily lives.
Columnist Robert Macklin’s “aha” moment (“Giving a fair go to our fellow sentient creatures”, CN March 6) came when he transcended the mental gymnastics that allows so many people to blithely munch away on a steak but rebel at the notion of eating dog or kangaroo.
In Robert’s case, he stopped seeing his egg as “breakfast” and saw it for what it is: something that in another reality could have been a living, breathing, feeling creature – just like him.
I often wish that humanity had evolved down a different path. One where we had used our extraordinary mental faculties to make existence better for all – human and non-human alike.
Dr Georgy Falster, Griffith
The desolate and a destroyed site of the former Canberra International Dragway. Photo: Domanic Assogna
people
Hot and sweaty? Your hypothalamus is kicking in
“I tried to give blood the other day. But the blood bank wouldn’t take it. They wanted to know where I got it from.” –Wally Wang (writer and software expert)
Some people are described as hot blooded – but is there much of a temperature variation between individuals, and is your body temperature important?
The fact is that the human body maintains a remarkably stable internal temperature, which is critical for optimal physiological functioning.
The average body temperature is approximately 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit), although it can vary slightly based on individual factors, time of day, and activity levels. This equilibrium, known as homeostasis, is essential for the myriad biochemical reactions that sustain life.
Body temperature regulation is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that acts as the body’s thermostat. When the body senses changes in external or internal conditions, the hypothalamus triggers mechanisms to restore balance.
For instance, when the body becomes too warm, sweat glands produce perspiration, which cools the skin through evaporation. Conversely, when the body is too cold, mechanisms
such as shivering and vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) conserve heat and generate warmth.
This regulation is vital because enzymes, the proteins that facilitate biochemical reactions, operate optimally within a narrow temperature range. Significant deviations from the average temperature can impair enzyme function, leading to disruptions in metabolic processes.
For example, if the body becomes too cold (hypothermia), enzyme activity slows down, which can affect the heart, brain and other vital organs. On the other hand, excessive heat (hyperthermia) can denature enzymes, effectively halting critical chemical reactions and causing cellular damage.
As mentioned, enzymes are highly temperature sensitive. The human body’s temperature provides an ideal environment for these proteins to catalyze reactions efficiently. Any significant deviation can impede processes such as digestion, energy production, and DNA replication.
Body temperature also plays a crucial role in the immune system’s ability to fight infections. Fever, a temporary increase in body temperature, is a defence mechanism that creates an inhospitable environment for pathogens. It also enhances the efficiency of white blood cells, aiding in the elimination of harmful micro-organisms.
Proper body temperature is
Body temperature regulation is primarily controlled by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that acts as the body’s thermostat.
essential for the optimal function of the nervous system. Nerve impulses, which rely on ion exchanges across cellular membranes, are sensitive to temperature changes. Extremes of heat or cold can impair these signals, leading to symptoms such as confusion, slowed reflexes, or even loss of consciousness.
During physical activity, maintaining an appropriate body temperature is critical. If the body overheats, it can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, conditions that can be lifethreatening. Conversely, exposure to extreme cold without adequate protection can result in hypothermia, which impairs muscular and cardiovascular performance.
The human body’s cells are composed of lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids that function within a specific temperature range. Extreme deviations can compromise cell membranes and protein structures, leading to tissue damage or systemic failure. Several factors can influence body temperature, including age, activity
level and environmental conditions.
Infants and the elderly are more vulnerable to temperature extremes due to less efficient thermoregulatory mechanisms. Physical activity generates heat, raising body temperature temporarily, while exposure to cold environments can lower it.
Additionally, hormonal changes, such as those during menstruation or pregnancy, can cause fluctuations in body temperature. Illnesses, particularly infections, often lead to fever as the body combats pathogens.
To maintain a stable body temperature, it’s essential to adapt to environmental conditions appropriately. In hot climates, staying hydrated, wearing lightweight clothing, and seeking shade can prevent overheating. In cold environments, layering clothing and consuming warm fluids help retain body heat.
Medical interventions are sometimes necessary to address temperature extremes. For hypothermia, gradual warming techniques, such as warm blankets or heated intravenous fluids, are employed. For hyperthermia, cooling methods, including ice packs or cooling blankets, are used to lower body temperature safely.
The human body’s temperature is a cornerstone of health and survival. Its regulation ensures that vital processes occur efficiently, protecting the body from the detrimental effects of extreme temperatures.
To end where we started, I’ve been told I’m hot and it seems that resting individuals can have a slight difference in temperature range, meaning one person’s baseline body temperature might be 36.5°C while mine could be 37.5°C.
On a lighter note: Paul went to the doctor for his annual check-up. Apart from scratches on his arms and legs he was in great shape.
“Do you work out?” asked the doctor.
“Well,” said Paul, “I spend a lot of time running up and down slopes, beating through the bush, and diving in lakes.”
“My gosh,” said the doctor, “that’s impressive – you’re training to be an ironman?
“No,” says Fred “I’m just a very poor golfer”.
Clive Williams is a Canberra columnist.
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Real estate awards recognise best of the best
The Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) has announced the finalists of the 20th National Awards for Excellence 2025.
Featuring a record number of finalists from across the country, 20 Canberran businesses will be representing the territory.
Dedicated to recognising and awarding topperforming operations staff, property managers and businesses across commercial and residential real estate, REIA president, Leanne Pilkington says NAFE honours the best practices in values, community service and industry contribution, reflecting the holistic impact of the industry on communities nationwide.
“As we enter our 101st year, we are proud to continue celebrating the best in the industry,” says Leanne.
“These awards highlight the outstanding achievements of professionals who are setting new benchmarks across the sector.”
Finalists have been announced for 23 categories that span across all aspects of the real estate sector including residential and commercial agencies, sales and leasing, buyer’s agents, community service, innovation and communications and property management.
“With 132 finalists, the event will shine a spotlight on the individuals and agencies leading the way in professionalism, service and innovation,” says Leanne.
The ceremony will be held in Adelaide on May 15.
A ‘premium mix’ on Canberra housing
Leading the way in sustainable practices, Archer Canberra sustainability and sales director Sasha Trpkovski says the organisation is particular about the projects it involves itself in, ensuring its projects are delivered on time and to a high quality.
“Challenges are very few as we have a great team of architects, builders and innovative industry leading developers,” he says.
Recently announced as a finalist for the Sustainability Leadership Award – Individual as part of the 2025 REIA National Awards, Sasha says they are proud of The Markets, Residences project in Canberra.
“The Markets design offers a deep understanding of passive solar designs, cross ventilation, natural daylight, high ceilings as well as indoor and outdoor living,” he says.
“Surrounded by greenery, The Markets is known in Canberra as being an industry leader and at the forefront of sustainable, healthy living.
“It’s a recognition that Archer is very proud to have achieved.”
With strong ESG and sustainability policies in place, Sasha says their Sustainability Package Checklist ensures clients are buying into the best new homes on offer in Canberra.
“We find our onsite display gallery at The Braddon. Call 6262 5232 or visit archerproperty.com.au
Collaborative team fosters positive property environment
A finalist for the 2025 Residential Property Management Team of the Year, Little Bird Property has been in operation for eight years.
“It’s always been a goal of mine to build a successful, collaborative team that thrives within the property management sector,” says director Heidi Rosin.
“As one of the largest property management only agencies in Can berra, our extensive knowledge and adaptability to market trends is a huge reason for our national nomination.
“We are consistently focusing on be ing at the forefront of technology and exceeding our clients’ expectations.”
According to Heidi, the ever-changing market and legislation remains a challenge within the industry, and working out the most efficient ways to navigate this while keeping clients’ interests at the forefront of their minds is imperative.
“Over the last year we have invested in new technology and processes to demonstrate excellence in the industry and ensure that our clients are working with a business that keeps up with the
every day.
“This positive environment and atmosphere helps the team confidently navigate challenges and ensure amicable outcomes with clients.”
“Poperty management can be such a fulfilling choice if you’re set up with the right tools to excel and the team to back you.”
Little Bird Properties. 16 Bougainville Street, Griffith ACT. Call 6153 3173 or visit littlebirdproperties.com.au
Archer Canberra sustainability and sales director Sasha Trpkovski.
Director of Little Bird Properties Heidi Rosin.
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Agency takes the complexities out of buying a home
A decade of dedication to buyer representation has earned Capital Buyers Agency recognition, with two finalist nominations at this year’s REIA National Awards for Excellence.
Founder and director Claire Corby is a finalist for Buyer’s Agent of the Year, an award she previously won in 2021 and has been a finalist in 2022, 2023 and 2024.
Helping Canberra buyers navigate the complexities of purchasing property, Claire says they’ve built the business around transparency, strategy and ensuring buyers are fully supported throughout the entire process.
“The real estate industry often favours the seller, and too many buyers feel left in the dark,” she says.
“Our job is to change that dynamic, making sure our clients are informed, confident and making the best possible decisions for their future.”
Offering guidance on area selection, pricing strategy, negotiation and auction bidding, Capital Buyers Agency
is also celebrating team member Sarah King, a finalist for Operational Support Person of the Year.
“Our clients always tell us how seamless their experience was, and that’s testament to Sarah’s incredible support behind the scenes,” Claire says.
“She ensures everything runs like clockwork, so our buyers can enjoy the journey rather than stress over logistics.”
With a proven record of success, a commitment to innovation and a client-first philosophy, Claire says Capital Buyers Agency leads the way in buyer representation.
“We’re grateful to be recognised at the national level again, and it reinforces the importance of what we do,” Claire says.
Capital Buyers Agency. 7/16 Bougainville Street, Griffith. Call 6295 0036 or visit capitalbuyersagency.com.au
Capital Buyers Agency founder and director Claire Corby.
Excellence, specifically in the leadership category, is recognition of progress made within the strata industry, says LMM Solutions owner, Michael Fennell.
A finalist for the Operational Leadership Award, Michael says the award highlights the strata management company’s dedication to innovation, quality services and leadership in shaping the future of strata management in the region.
“What sets our business apart is our commitment to a customer-first approach, focusing on delivering personalised relationships, ensuring every client receives the attention and care they deserve,” he says. Prioritising building strong, personalised relationships with their clients and ensuring they receive undivided
attention, Michael says their dedication to quality service has been a key to the success of their business.
“We ensure outstanding service and results by maintaining clear, streamlined processes and procedures that are easy for our entire team to follow across all aspects of the business,” he says.
“We stay up to date with the latest technological advancements, allowing for the efficient delivery of cutting-edge solutions.
“Above all, we truly care about our clients and their needs, and are adapting to the everchanging and more complex buildings.”
LMM Solutions Pty Ltd. Unit 1.3/26 Thynne Street, Bruce. Call 5110 3200 or visit lmmsolutions.com.au
Wishes all ACT finalists the best of luck at the REIA National Awards for Excellence 2025!
To all the incredible agents and agencies representing the ACT at the REIA National Awards for Excellence 2025 – congratulations on your well-deserved recognition. Your dedication and achievements have set a benchmark for the industry.
We wish you every success as you compete on the national stage. Good luck, and may your hard work and commitment be rewarded!
LMM Solutions owner Michael Fennell.
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Financial experts help manage cash during crisis
In a cost-ofliving crisis, managing your finances can be a stressful journey. From budgets to investments, understanding financial gain and management is an invaluable skillset.
Canberra has a selection of experts who can show you just how to get the most out of your money.
Accountants go extra mile for financial success
Utilising more than 30 years of shared experience at Freedom Financial Solutions FFS and applying it to taxation, business, self-managed super funds (SMSFs), finance, mortgages, financial planning, property and share market investing, managing director Mary-Jane Liddicoat says SMSFs are an excellent way to grow family wealth.
“Whether you’re experienced or new to managing finances, we’ll guide you through the complexities of SMSFs, explaining that while it can be complicated, we take care of the vast majority of the work,” she says.
According to Mary-Jane, clients need only focus on three things: making investment choices, keeping paperwork, and reviewing and signing the audited tax return.
“We handle the rest,” she says.
Mary-Jane says clients typically set up an SMSF for two primary reasons: investment diversity and direct control.
“Unlike industry or retail funds, which limit investments to shares or cash, SMSF’s offer a broader range of investments such as property and bullion,” she says.
“These tangible assets allow clients to directly engage with their investments, providing a sense of security and control.”
With SMSFs, members can directly manage their investments, something that Mary-Jane says can allow for quick responses to market changes, such as market crashes.
Following a “do as we do” and not a “do as we
“Ultimately your superannuation is
and it should be managed according to your preferences, not dictated by others.”
Freedom Financial Solutions FFS. Call 1300 333121 or visit freedomffs.com.au
Working together to make retirement work
David Luke Retirement Planning specialises in advising those com ing up to, or already in retirement, says director David Luke.
“I can help maximise your Cen trelink entitlement, minimise tax exposure, set up income streams and offer investment advice and implementation,” he says.
“I have been a financial planner in Canberra and surrounding regions for 23 years, exclusively advising on retirement,” he says, and has run his own business for the last five years.
David says financial rules are daunting when you look at them for the first time.
“I can lead you through the process of the ATO, Centrelink, and investment markets, to make them work for you and achieve the retirement you want,” he says.
“You don’t need any prior knowledge with the rules or with financial planning, just an idea of what you want to achieve.”
He says he will break down the issues so you understand how it all fits together.
“I have no relationship with any product providers – I am on your side and I’m a one-person operation so you will always deal directly with me,” says David.
“I’m more than happy to visit you at home, after hours or on weekends.
“Don’t let the complexity of the system make you think it’s all too hard. Make it work for you instead.”
David Luke Retirement Planning, Level 1, 33 Allara Street, Canberra City. Call 0404 857242, or visit davidlukeplanning.com.au
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Managing director Mary-Jane Liddicoat.
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An ‘empowerment’ approach to superannuation
Nearing a decade of experience in the accounting field, director and self-managed super fund (SMSF) manager Peta Demczyszyn brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Freedom Financial Superannuation Solutions and their clients.
Choosing to specialise in SMSF accounting and compliance, Peta says she fulfils her desire to help people achieve financial success in retirement.
“I always go the extra mile to help achieve the desired result and value strong and productive relationships with my clients,” she says.
With an in-depth understanding and knowl edge of the complex SMSF regulatory landscape, Peta says she ensures her team is on top of the latest industry trends and changes.
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Freedom Financial Superannuation Solutions. 5/44 Hoskins Street, Mitchell. Call 1300 333121 or visit freedomsuper.com.au
to build lasting partnerships and deliver unparalleled financial expertise,” Chris says.
“We believe that by empowering our clients with the knowledge and resources they need, we can contribute to their long-term financial security and
WFS specialises in a comprehensive suite of financial services, including tax planning, business structuring, wealth management, succession planning and SMSF set-up and compliance.
challenges, and aspirations, and we’re always here to provide guidance and support every step of the way.” Chris and Michael believe that excellence in financial services is a team effort, and they take great pride in the fact that the entire WFS team shares these core values and qualities, ensuring clients receive the highest standard of service.
Wholistic Financial Solutions, 5/133 Flemington Road, Mitchell ACT. Call 6162 4546 or visit wfscanberra.com.au
Wholistic Financial Solutions directors Chris McGuigan, left, and Michael Johnson.
Freedom Financial Superannuation Solutions director and self-managed super fund manager Peta Demczyszyn.
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With a firm belief in transparency, trust and ethical services, Mark says their award-winning team has been recognised at industry-leading events.
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Clarity Home Loans managing director Mark Edlund.
Director and founding partner of Capon & Hubert, Ken Hubert.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Mystery play with a ‘twisted’ sense of humour
By Helen MUSA
The very mention of the English moors is enough to send a shudder up many spines – think the 1960s Moors Murders, the Hound of the Baskervilles and even Cathy and Heathcliff romping around the hills.
The next play coming up at the Mill Theatre in Fyshwick, The Moors, by American playwright Jen Silverman, was inspired by Charlotte Brontë’s real letters yet it is, as one of the lead players in the show tells us, “so much fun”.
Briefly, a young governess, Emilie, arrives at a remote manor after exchanging correspondence with a Mr Branwell. But when she arrives, she meets only Branwell’s two creepy sisters, a maid (or maybe two maids) and a mournful mastiff, but no man or child.
Andrea Close, who plays one of the isolated Brontë-like sisters, has no hesitation in describing the play as “laugh-out-loud funny,” but assures me that it will also be popular with people who are mad literary fans of the three Brontë sisters.
“The play is also a bit of a mystery with a
sense of humour that is quite twisted,” she says.
It’s been cast with fairly mature actors, but then again it’s all relative, and in real life
Anne died at 29, Emily at 30 and Charlotte at 38.
“It’s a really beautiful ensemble piece where we all have delicious roles,” Close says.
The plum roles – unless you count the dog (Chris Zuber) and the moorhen (Petronella van Tienen), who are bound to steal the show – are the two sisters, Agatha (Close) and Huldey (Rachel Howard), the governess (Sarah Nathan Truesdale) and, of course, the upstairs-downstairs stage maid/s played by Stef Roberts, who played the hilarious maid in the Rep’s Bloody Murder last year.
Close tells me you can’t exactly match the sisters to the Brontë sisters – but they do have an offstage brother whose name, as with the real-life Brontës, is Branwell.
“I play Agatha, she’s the elder of the two and runs the household with an iron hand, seeing my younger sister as a flippity gibbet,” but one who brings comedy, she adds.
She is not about to commit any spoilers, but hints that when the governess comes into the house, all the repressed pain and secrets come out.
“It’s a rather repressed world,” she says, “but with a wonderful creepy underground… dark and mysterious, fun and kooky.”
In part it deals with sibling rivalry in the relationship between the two sisters, but it’s a very different show from Baby Jane, recently staged by Rep.
Directed by Joel Horwood, it features period costuming by Sydney-based Aloma Barnes, who has been travelling to and from Canberra, sourcing costumes in Sydney and making a few special ones for the show.
And yet, playwright Silverman has asserted: “I would never call it a ‘genre piece’ or a ‘period piece’… These characters are reaching moments in their lives where they’re saying: I must change, how do I do it? Can I do it?”
Close says the 85-minute play, to run with no interval, is almost impossible to preview because “it’ll be like nothing you’ve ever seen before”.
What makes it so hilarious, she believes, is the very dark humour intertwined with a contemporary viewpoint in a lot of passages so that even Brontë-lovers will get a kick out of it.
“Wuthering Heights is, personally, my favourite book,” Close says.
“So I get a certain relish doing this play… the humour comes from the surprises… the audience will not know what’s happening and that’s a lovely thing for the theatre – but you’ll have to see it to believe it.”
The Moors, Mill Theatre, Fyshwick, March 26-April 12.
CANBERRA PSYCHIC FAIR
Andrea Close, who plays Agatha, left, and Stef Roberts, the upstairs-downstairs maid/s.
Photo: Daniel Abroguena
DINING / Rebel Rebel, Acton
Rebel Rebel always dares to be different
By Wendy JOHNSON
Award-winning Rebel Rebel, in the NewActon precinct, always dares to be different.
Although the menu changes over the seasons, the restaurant’s intense desire to dish up award-winning, innovative and scrumptious food does not. I love the place and promise to visit more often.
Under the watchful eye of colourful David Bowie – featured on a framed poster near the large, open-concept kitchen – Rebel Rebel’s team operates with care, detail and attention.
The fit-out is as amazing as the food (visit to discover more).
We started our long lunch with the smart decision to select the “all in” menu for $90 per person, letting the chef choose on our behalf.
Pomelo and pink peppercorn perked up our Appellation premium-grade Sydney Rock Oysters, served at a perfect temperature. This was a gastronomic experience in its own
Zucchini flowers are an art to make and present and Rebel Rebel’s were light, crispy and divine with buffalo ricotta, chilli and lemon.
Colourful and refreshing was the yellowfin tuna and refreshing ripe watermelon, all meticulously cubed. These ingredients
tongue, trust Rebel Rebel with this dish. The Wagyu tongue, which the restaurant is famous for, was tender and soft. It was served with Pedro Ximénez, decorated with green, long Aleppo peppers and arrived with the warning that one in 10 of the peppers is
super-duper hot.
We indulged in too many dishes to (sadly) mention them all. One of our party was new to Rebel Rebel and he declared the ribeye the best he had had in Canberra. This assessment is easy to back. The grass-fed beef was earthy and slightly gamey. It was served rare as promised and the Wakame butter elevated the dish to great heights.
Dessert was a mango, lychee and coconut ice cream sandwich, which some of us adored more than others.
Cocktails are adventurous, including the Diplomatic Immunity created with Diplomatico white rum, cucumber, mint and lime ($22). The wine list is there to impress with a wide range of intriguing options. Prices start from about $75 a bottle.
Rebel Rebel opened in 2019 and continues to please diners. It has held strong in a tough, competitive market for good reason. If you’ve not been, book. If you’ve been, book again.
Canberrans need to support longstanding dining establishments, not just newbies. And congrats to Rebel Rebel for appearing in the popular tv comedy-drama Austin, with the first series filmed here in the capital. How fun is that?
MUSIC Big band makes the right Connexion
By Helen Musa
Big band buffs and video games enthusiasts will be grabbing their devices and heading for the Belconnen Community Centre at the end of the month for the second edition of Connexion Big Band’s video game music night.
When I catch up with Connexion sax-player and composer Bryan Hooley, I find that September’s first foray into the genre at the Harmonie German Club was a sellout, and with a similarly sized auditorium they’re hoping for more of the same.
the gnocchi WINE
When the ‘wrong’ rosé meets
By Richard CALVER
I find myself regularly cooking Italian food at home and eating out at Italian restaurants.
It’s the inveigling, ubiquitous taste of the Mediterranean, rich in pasta, olive oil, tomato and fish with wine as a condiment that makes this style of cuisine generally engaging and satisfying.
At home, I regularly make risotto and when I eat out at Italian restaurants I regularly order gnocchi (which when I make it at home often turns bullet-like) or rotolo or lasagne because I just don’t make them well.
I mostly get the wine matching right, but on a recent occasion my friend’s wine was much better suited to the gnocchi I ordered than the wine I’d chosen to accompany the meal. It had been a hot day and the heat
lingered into the early evening. So instead of a red wine I decided to take a rosé to the restaurant, a local (Braidwood) Sapling Yard 2022 Grenache/Gamay rosé that I purchased from the Strange Alchemy bottle shop at the Kingston foreshore.
It was on special at $21.99 a bottle, which seemed very reasonable as the winery sells it for $28.
The label doesn’t disclose the percentage of each grape variety so I looked up the wine on the company’s website. It indicates a 95 per cent grenache, 5 per cent gamay make up.
That is unusual because the label disclosure rules in Australia permit a wine to be shown as 100 per cent of a particular variety so long as its got more than 85 per cent of that variety in its composition.
In other words, if a single variety is stated on the label, the wine must contain at least 85 per cent of that variety. The rest doesn’t need to be disclosed. It can masquerade as completely of the one varietal.
Grenache is well-known as a Rhone Valley
grape although it originated in Spain and it delivers a brighter rosé than from other varieties.
I’m not a fan of the earthy, plummy grenaches that say Lake Breeze, Langhorne Creek, SA produces, although these wines are of high quality. I prefer other varietals to grenache.
The Sapling Yard rosé is dry with a lingering apple taste and a hint of raspberry that, on a hot day, was great as an aperitif, that is before the food arrived.
It did not, unfortunately, match the gnocchi served with peas and asparagus. The rosé just didn’t cut through the oil and cheese flavours (the latter produced by a generous serve of parmesan applied at the table). I believe a dry white wine such as a textural Vermentino would have gone better with the gnocchi.
My friend had brought to dinner a Tempranillo Touriga 2022 blend from SC Panell, a Halliday five-star rated winery. The blend is Tempranillo 55 per cent and Touriga 45 per
cent from McLaren Vale and Barossa Valley.
This was a well-balanced food wine, dry, medium bodied with bright fruit flavours that merged well with the gnocchi. It had a thyme-like finish and was mouth filling, an excellent accompaniment to Italian food despite the Spanish and Portuguese origins of the grape varieties respectively.
Although the flavours of the gnocchi were on the lighter side, this wine’s structure seemed well suited to the cheesy flavour that I kept tasting.
I later looked up the price of this wine and its $35 a bottle from the winery. I might have saved money but I took a wine not suited to what I had ordered.
A teacher was asking the class to manipulate sentences so they produced the opposite of the original meaning. She wrote on the blackboard: “Children in the dark make mistakes”.
Her most precocious pupil raised his hand and offered: “Mistakes in the dark make children”. She sent him to the principal’s office.
This time in a theatre configuration rather than the open space of German Club, the band will be on the stage and the audiences will be in their seats. The performance will be augmented with a string section.
“The concert is not going to change radically,” Hooley says. The focus will be on the computer-game music genre, with pieces ranging across games, past and present.” Last time, much to Connexion’s delight, some punters came togged up as their favourite video-game characters, their responses showing how familiar they were with the material.
There’ll be another big change, as the previous music director and gaming music fan, Justin Buckingham, has stepped down, although he will be making a return appearance on sax and as MC.
The new director Aaron Michael, formerly director of music for the Royal Australian Air Force Band, is still working out what direction he wants to go.
For this reason, Connexion have been billing the show as “the second and probably final video game concert,” but Hooley doesn’t discount the idea that they could return to the format again if it is a success.
Connexion Big Band’s 64-Bit Big Band Videogame Music Night, Belconnen Community Theatre, March 28.
STREAMING Meghan’s sweet souffle of self-indulgence
By Nick OVERALL
The Duchess of Sussex has well and truly served up a saccharine souffle of self-indulgence in her new Netflix series that’s been all the talk of the town.
For those who haven’t tuned into With Love, Meghan, the new show follows Meghan Markle as she arranges flowers, bakes sweets and frolics with bees amongst other mind-numbing frivolities over roughly four hours of TV.
It’s all supposed to offer an up-close and “authentic” look at the contentious royal figure, who invites the viewer to get to know her better as she shares her tips on how to make the “little moments” in life more meaningful.
Singing gangsters by the harbour ARTS IN THE CITY
By Helen MUSA
average score of the show aggregated from thousands of user reviews.
On critical aggregator site Rotten Tomatoes it isn’t much prettier.
But if this was supposed to give us a better idea of who Meghan is, it well and truly does the opposite. Everything about this show feels more confected than what’s baking in the oven. It doesn’t even take place in Meghan’s own home but rather a far-flung multi-million dollar farmhouse in California.
Throughout the show’s eight episodes is a splattering of celebrity cameos who come to “hang out” with Meghan to essentially sing her praises.
Perhaps the most absurd moment of the whole affair is when she offers her advice on what to pack in party bags for kids at the end of a celebration.
Sweets? No, that would be too obvious. Instead, she suggests seeds that children can plant and watch grow.
I don’t know what kids are into these days but I can’t imagine a horticultural kit at the bottom of their party bag would be a big winner. The series has been met with a
Only 33 per cent of critics who have watched the show had something positive to say about it.
And yet, despite this appalling reception there’s already more on the way.
In a post to Instagram the Duchess of Sussex announced that season two would be happening.
Despite all the criticism, the talk that the show has been able to generate alone is enough for Netflix to call it a success.
A success they certainly need it to be after spending more than $140 million on securing their content deal with Harry and Meghan.
Only three years ago the Duke and Duchess had people around the world cringing their couches with their first Netflix series in which they moped about the hardships they’ve endured over the last few years.
It seems this new show has made a very concerted effort to offer the opposite tone and yet somehow it’s even harder to stomach.
Perhaps the talk is all they need. Many will tune in just to see if it’s as bad as everyone says. I suppose I am
OF course the main purpose of this column is to recommend good content to watch, so what else is making streaming news this week?
Subscribers to Apple TV Plus should definitely check out Dope Thief.
There are no shortage of shows about drug dealers, especially in the wake of prestige hits such as The Wire and Breaking Bad, but this one has an interesting twist.
It follows Ray and Manny, two best friends (played Brian Tyree Henry and Wagner Moura) who come up with a bold scam to make a buck: pretending to be drugenforcement agents to steal from drug dealers.
Gladiator director Ridley Scott is in the directing chair for the first episode. His ability to get adrenaline pumping couldn’t be more perfect. It seems Apple TV Plus is trying to tie at least one massive name to either the cast or crew of any new project and it’s Scott who has ticked that box here.
There are still seven episodes to come in this thriller series so time will tell if it can go the distance but the first episode of Dope Thief is a very promising start.
It may not be exactly opera, but the flashy world of showgirls and gangsters from 1950s Manhattan will come to life when Guys & Dolls premieres in Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour at Mrs Macquarie’s Point, March 21-April 20.
been a long time coming, but now Cooked, the debut feature film by 25-year-old filmmaker Cameron Utiger will premiere in hometown Newcastle, March 27-28, then stream on Apple TV, Prime Video, and Google Play. A coming-of-age comedy, it stars Canberra actor Zane Menegazzo.
Germany’s Freiburg Baroque Orchestra comes to Canberra for the first time, presenting Mozart’s most popular works with Australian fortepiano soloist Kristian Bezuidenhout. Snow Concert Hall, March 29.
Luminescence Chamber Singers will perform Carlo Gesualdo’s Tenebrae Responsories, directed by Roland Peelman. More than 400 years after its composition, they say, Gesualdo’s music still seems avant-garde and is “simply put, some of the best vocal music ever composed”. Wesley Uniting Church, March 29.
Anne Masters bills her Gallery of Small Things, at Wade Street, Watson, as “Australia’s smallest gallery”. It is showing small wall works by Bathurst painter Nicola Mason and cups/saucers, pourers and dishes by Cowra ceramicist Rebecca Dowling daily until March 30.
Resonant Spaces is a new concert series held inside Canberra Museum + Gallery. It kicks off with David Bridie, founding member of Not Drowning, Waving and My Friend the Chocolate Cake, and pianist Sophie
March 28.
Canberra International Music Festival is assembling its biggest choir to join in the festival finale, Finlandia, to be directed by Roland Peelman, along with a new work by Nicole Smede in the Gathag language and Sonneurs, led by French piper Erwan Keravec. Registrations of interest via cimf.org.au/contact-us/ by March 31.
Night and Now is the first concert of the Canberra Symphony Orchestra’s Llewellyn Series for the year, featuring Elena Kats-Chernin’s composition of the same name, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6 and The Unanswered Question by American composer Charles Ives. Llewellyn Hall, March 26-27.
Hutchings, 2024 ARIA Award winner for Best Classical Album, both responding to the works of Sidney Nolan. CMAG,
Annie Aitken as Sarah Brown and Cody Simpson as Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls.
Photo: Eugene Hyland
Meghan Markle’s With Love, Meghan is heading into a second series... despite all the criticism, the talk that the show has been able to generate alone is enough for Netflix to call it a success.
GARDENING
A pondless water feature… has trickling water with less maintenance than a pond or traditional water features.
By Jackie WARBURTON
the weather cools, strategic planting can give the garden a riot of colour for many months yet.
Flowering now is a terrific plant that’s a little hard to find, but once in the ground the rhizome, which grows well in our climate, can spread to a lovely thicket.
Then there’s the Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), which can grow to at least a metre tall and gives a large, autumn garden lovely spikes of golden yellow flowers that bloom through late summer to autumn.
The spent flowers can be left on the plant for birds and wildlife in the
winter garden as well.
Prune in late winter to early spring and fertilise for the season ahead. In some areas of Australia it’s considered an invasive plant, but not an issue in our climate.
However, keep it contained in a garden bed or a pot to stop it getting away from you.
THINGS are moving fast in the vegetable garden with the end of summer crops to be dug out and the last chance to get winter crops in.
From here, the soil begins to go cold and if seedlings are planted, they will sulk and not grow until the weather warms.
If planting seedlings, they may need some night protection with a glass dome cloche to keep the soil warm.
PUMPKINS will be nearly ready for picking. Place a piece of cardboard under them to stop them
drawing moisture from the ground while trying to ripen.
Generally, pumpkins are ready to pick when their leaves wither. This usually happens with the first frost. The stem will also wither and detach from the vine.
Storage requirements depend on the variety of pumpkin. I like to grow Queensland Blues mainly because they’re hard to buy and, some years with 15 pumpkins and 70 kilos worth, thankfully they can be long lasting when stored in a dry, dark space ready for winter pumpkin soup.
If there’s a pumpkin variety you like, keep the seed and grow your own in spring. It’s very easy and worth a try. Wash and clean the large seeds and dry on a paper towel in a well-lit room.
Once dry, they can be stored until spring. In October, when the soils are warm, cut pieces of the paper towel with the seed and plant straight into the ground.
Always remember, all pumpkins need more room than you think. They like to sprawl over a large area and will scramble over other plants if they can. Give them lots of compost and space to grow.
IF there’s a corner in the garden that gets all-day winter shade where it’s difficult to grow
anything, a pondless water feature could work well.
A pondless water feature has trickling water and is safe around pets and children. It has less maintenance than a pond or traditional water features.
They are terrific for all wildlife and having moving water is more resistant to freezing. There are lots of plants that can be used for boggy areas within the area.
There are pondless kits that are available to put together or use a pond specialist to help with installing. They can be any size that fits and, most importantly, they say the sound of running water is always good for reducing stress.
jackwar@home.netspeed.com.au
Jottings…
• Plant broad beans directly in the soil.
• Plant sweet peas in the garden with a trellis.
• Spray stone fruit with fungicides.
• Prune out berry canes that have fruited.
Goldenrod… gives a large, autumn garden spikes of golden yellow flowers that bloom late summer to autumn. Photos: Jackie Warburton
HOROSCOPE PUZZLES
By Joanne Madeline Moore
ARIES (Mar 21 – Apr 20)
The week starts with Mercury and Venus reversing through your sign, which could amp up your impatient, argumentative side. And relationships look challenging, as loved ones are more unpredictable than usual. With the Sun and Pluto activating your friendship and peer group zones, strive to be more strategic. If you can temporarily morph from a raging ram to a gentle lamb, then life will be less bumpy. Saturday’s New Moon in Aries signals a fresh approach.
TAURUS (Apr 21 – May 21)
This week – with Venus (your ruling planet) and Mercury both in retrograde mode – you could feel rather rushed, impatient and/or unsettled. Cool down and calm down, Bulls! Aim to do plenty of physical activity, so you can channel your restless energy in pleasant and productive ways. But being overly proprietorial about a person or situation will only lead to a fraction too much friction. So strive to be less stubborn about people, possessions and work.
GEMINI (May 22 – June 21)
Mercury and Venus are both reversing through your aspirations and career zones, so this week is a suitable time for dreaming, researching and planning. Action (in the form of ambitious work projects and exciting new collaborations) will come later (when Mercury and Venus are both moving forward from mid-April). Be inspired by birthday great, feminist Gloria Steinem: “Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities.”
CANCER (June 22 – July 23)
Mighty Mars has now got plenty of forward momentum in your sign, so you’ll feel compelled to zoom towards your preferred future. But Mercury and Venus are both retrograde, so pace yourself and don’t rush. A cautious and confident approach is the best way for Crabs to proceed. Be inspired by birthday great and soul singer, the late Aretha Franklin: “Be your own person, and always be confident in what you’re doing.”
LEO (July 24 – Aug 23)
This week’s tricky planetary patterns could unsettle a close relationship, especially if there are secret agreements, trust issues or joint finances involved. Then Saturday’s fiery New Moon activates your adventure zone, so you’re in the mood to organise a weekend getaway or an overdue holiday. But remember Mercury and Venus are both retrograde (until April 7 and 13, respectively) so clever Lions will plan and book any trips from mid-April onwards.
VIRGO (Aug 24 – Sept 23)
Mercury and Venus are both reversing through your research and partnership zones. So it’s a good week to investigate something thoroughly (with your Virgo X-ray vision), read a detective story, uncover a secret, solve a puzzling problem, or get to the bottom of an intriguing mystery. But the more you try to control others, the more they are likely to resist. So, if you want to avoid ongoing power struggles, learn to diplomatically let go and move on.
LIBRA (Sept 24 – Oct 23)
Retro Mercury, retro Venus and the New Moon stir up your relationship zone. So a loved one could unsettle you by bringing up a grievance from the past or by making a surprise move. Is your love-life stuck on autopilot? The planets push you to blast away the cobwebs and look at things from a fresh angle. Attached Librans – get talking (really talking) with your partner. Singles – love has been delayed until after Venus moves forward on April 13.
SCORPIO (Oct 24 – Nov 22)
This week Pluto (your power planet) links up with the Sun and retrograde Mercury, plus there’s also a New Moon in your wellbeing zone. So step back and take a close look at your diet and fitness levels. Can you introduce healthier food choices, stop bad habits (like smoking) or reboot your exercise program? Avoid the temptation to operate on autopilot. If you shake up your daily domestic routine, it will put an extra spring in your Scorpio step.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23 – Dec 21)
With Mercury and Venus both moving backwards, be extra careful how you give and receive information. If in doubt, then don’t hesitate to double-check. Plus avoid starting major ventures or signing important contracts until after April 13. Instead, be patient and focus your attention on revising, researching or reworking current projects. Under the influence of the New Moon, a close relationship could suddenly veer off in a totally unexpected direction.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 – Jan 20)
When it comes to your domestic life, a dash of disruption may be just what the doctor ordered! So shake things up on the home front as you redesign, redecorate, renovate or entertain unexpected guests. But retrograde Mercury and retrograde Venus caution you to be very clear when you’re communicating with others. What they say and what you hear may be two different things. So keep them up-to-date with your plans, otherwise misunderstandings are likely.
AQUARIUS (Jan 21 – Feb 19)
Venus and Mercury both reverse into your money zone, so you’ll need to be extra careful with financial matters. Avoid signing contracts or making major purchases until after April 13. The weekend New Moon is a wonderful time to explore your neighbourhood or introduce yourself to some new members of your local community. Your motto for the week is from birthday great, feminist Gloria Steinem: “A good friendship is a conversation that never ends.”
PISCES (Feb 20 – Mar 20)
By the end of the week, you’ll have four planets in your sign – Saturn and Neptune, plus Venus and Mercury (which both retrograde back into Pisces). So perceptive Pisceans will start dreaming and planning a bigger and better life now! Your quote is from this week’s birthday great, entertainer extraordinaire Elton John: “I’ve always been, and still am, a dreamer.” Saturday’s New Moon fires up your money zone, so it’s time to devise a smart new financial plan. Copyright Joanne Madeline Moore 2025
1 To have confessed, is to have done what? (8)
2 What is a diamond-shaped pattern of two or more colours? (6)
3 What was the nationality of Adolf Hitler? (8)
4 Name the furnace that is used for baking bricks. (4)
5 What was†the former official name of Iran? (6)
6 Name another term for a facial expression. (6)
12 What is a dolphin-like cetacean? (8)
13 Name a building connected with a church. (8)
15 What is another term for a speech of high praise or commendation? (6)
16 Which Asian republic was formerly Palestine? (6)
17 What is a bracelet in the form of a ring? (6)
20 To be neither very good nor very bad, is to be what? (2-2)
BelconnenJunior BowlsAcademy
Belconnen Junior Lawn Bowls Academy
Belconnen Bowling Club’s Junior Lawns Bowls Academy is committed to making the sport accessible to younger players. Our club offers junior memberships and a coaching program, where young people will learn the basic skills and rules of the game. The relaxed pace makes it ideal for young people, as they can learn and develop at their own speed. Lawn bowls is inherently social and places emphasis on teamwork, conversation and community. It’s a sport that encourages families to come together and spend quality time outside, whether playing together or simply cheering each other on! It’s fun for everyone!
One of the best things about lawn bowls is that you can play it all year round! Whether you’re enjoying the sunshine of Canberra’s summer or playing under the clear skies of winter, lawn bowls can be enjoyed no matter the season.
Belconnen Junior Lawn Bowls Academy is pleased to invite boys and girls aged 8-18 years (and their families) to “Come and Try” on Thursdays at 4:15pm-5:15pm at the Belconnen Bowling Club, Beetaloo St, Hawker. Essential items are a hat and flat sole shoes/ bare feet. Bowls and supervision/ instruction provided. All FREE
WINNUNGA NIMMITYJAH ABORIGINAL HEALTH AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
Winnunga Nimmityjah AHCS is an Aboriginal community controlled primary health care service operated by the Aboriginal community of the ACT.
In Wiradjuri language, Winnunga Nimmityjah means Strong Health. The service logo is the Corroboree Frog which is significant to Aboriginal people in the ACT.
Our aim is to provide a culturally safe, holistic health care service for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of the ACT and surrounding regions. The holistic health care provided by Winnunga AHCS includes not only medical care, but a range of programs to promote good health and healthy lifestyles.
Our services include:
• GP and Nursing
• Midwifery
• Immunisations
• Health Checks
• Men’s & Women’s Health
• Hearing Health
• Dental
• Physiotherapy
• Podiatry
• Dietician (Nutrition)
• Counselling
• Diabetes Clinic
• Quit Smoking Services / No More Boondah
• Needle Syringe Program
• Mental Health Support
• Healthy Weight Program
• Healthy Cooking Group
• Mums and Bubs Group / Child Health
• Optometry Service
• Psychology and Psychiatrist
• Community Events
• Groups
Winnunga AHCS is a national leader in accreditation, was one of the first Aboriginal community controlled health services to achieve dual accreditation under RACGP and QIC standards. Winnunga AHCS has been at the forefront of setting a national agenda for quality improvement in Aboriginal community controlled health and continues to advocate locally and nationally for best practice standards in operational and governance areas of Aboriginal health services.
CLINIC hours | MONDAY TO FRIDAY 9am-5pm
Ph: 6284 6222 | 63 Boolimba Cres, Narrabundah www.winnunga.org.au
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