Gungahlin Smokesignals
October-November 2008
109 A community newsletter published bi-monthly by the Gungahlin Community Council Inc Distributed to 15,000 homes and businesses in the Gungahlin district
– a must-see meeting for a better Gungahlin 10 days before the election day on J ust 18 October, this will be one of the last opportunities for candidates to ‘strut their stuff,’ and for Gungahlin people to put their concerns directly to the people whom are seeking their votes. And so close to the election day, all candidates should have their policies well bedded down, so should be able to give us solid commitments on the issues that matter to Gungahlin. The meeting will be facilitated by Peter Martin, the former economics editor from the Canberra Times (now with The Age). Peter’s solid reputation for pragmatic economics, and familiarity with ACT politics, will ensure that candidates get fair and equal treatment, with no opportunity for spin, and residents get concerns answered. The challenges for Gungahlin are manifest. As the fastest developing area in the region, Gungahlin has experienced considerable and accelerating ‘growing pains’ over the years. Community and social infrastructure was allowed (by multiple governments of different persuasions) to fall well behind the needs of a population surpassing 30,000 and on its way to 100,000. This government promised not to repeat in Gungahlin the mistakes that held Tuggeranong back. But now this government is promising the people of Weston that the mistakes of Gungahlin will not be repeated in Molonglo. Failure to learn from past mistakes has left Gungahlin the repository of some of the worse planning outcomes in Canberra. The inability of successive governments to secure an adequate employment base has left most workers
with no option but to commute out every day, choosing between the daily traffic jams on inadequate arterial roads, and inadequate public transport lacking in vision and certainty of service. We believe that Gungahlin deserves a government with the vision to match our own aspirations for our community. Our question to all candidates is: do you have that vision? The Gungahlin Community Council appreciates candidates’ interest in
G
ungahlin is a developing area with notable lags in critical community infrastructure. So it is no surprise to find ourselves amidst a battleground in the lead-up to the ACT election. And one of the big issues has been health. The ALP promised in their last budget to build an $18 million 'community health clinic', although information on exactly that was wasn't forthcoming until very recently. Then the Liberals promised $20 million for three GP clinics, one of which was to be in Gungahlin. It was unclear however whether this promise was on top of or instead of the previous ALP budget commitment. GCC took this concern to the media, to the Liberals' health shadow Jacqui Burke, and then finally collared Liberal leader Zed Sesalja on live radio on the issue. He gave a commitment that the GP clinic would indeed be on top of the community health clinic, but conceded it
representing our community in the ACT Parliament. To campaign for election is a major undertaking – but to perform well within the job if elected is even more so. As with all our meetings now, we will videotape the entire meeting and post it to our website www.gcc.asn.au. The majority of the Gungahlin district is in the Molonglo electorate, but all of Nicholls is in Ginninderra.
would not be a 24/7 operation. Meantime, ALP health minister Katy Gallagher finally contacted GCC about her funding commitment and advised that her government had 'locked in' the block of land immediately north of the Aldi centre for it. She asked what we thought of the block's suitability, to which we advised it was kind of pointless asking that when she had already locked it in (although we are OK with that block and the additional traffic will help some of the businesses struggling on that side). She did however arrange for GCC to meet ACT Health Executive Director Megan Cahill to discuss possible inclusions for the centre and the way forward with community consultation. Key facilities we would be looking for are x-ray and ultrasound clinics, other specialists - particularly paediatricians, casualty facilities, and potentially a birthing suite. GunSmoke 109
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COMMUNITY NEWS
Town centre plan – laying the foundation
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n June GCC lodged a comprehensive submission on the concept plan for the Gungahlin Town Centre Planning Study. This is one of the most important planning studies for Gungahlin’s future – a chance to set to rights some past mistakes. It will set the future for whether we end up with a dormitory area or a real employment base. You can read the full submission on our site www.gcc.asn.au. We see Hibberson Street as a “high friction” shared zone (something like Childers Street at ANU) to deter “through traffic” from the town centre, instead steering this traffic around either the Valley Way or Anthony Rolfe Drive. This would leave the town centre to “destination traffic” and pedestrians, creating the personal scale that was originally envisaged for the town centre. This would also allow some more traffic after hours, ensuring the casual surveillance required by retailers to avoid the social and security problems that plague full pedestrian malls. For accessibility reasons, public transport is the one sort of traffic that should be given unrestricted access to Hibberson Street The business park area to the east should heavily borrow design hints from Brindabella Park, with setbacks rather than the current built-to-boundary restrictions, and greenspaces in order to
ensure a highly attractive office environment. We are concerned that if the existing grid pattern includes eastern extensions of Gribble and Ernest Cavanagh Streets, that this may substantially restrict the potential for an expansive business park to be developed that features broad open space separation between buildings. The town centre is currently typified by large expanses of paving and roadway, with very little green. The space that would otherwise be available for open green space would instead be consumed by more roads, and potentially also remove design flexibility for the business park. The planning study seemed to recommend downgrading significant areas to the north and south from C2 Business Zone to C5 Mixed Use, and this is not supported. There is too little land left in the town centre to create the levels of employment that Gungahlin needs and was promised. There are some key features missing from the town centre – cinemas and pubs. There should be zoning requirements that foster these uses within the town centre retail core. There also should be the opportunity to develop a “day hospital” for Gungahlin within either the C2 or C5 zones.
Palmerston Community Centre
The precinct plan will need careful controls on the C5 zone “Mixed Use” development framing the town centre to prevent more of the Anthony Rolfe Drive kind of 3-storey-townhouse-with-shop effect. This “sausage factory” approach to Mixed Use zones cannot be allowed to encroach further into the town centre. There is great potential for off-road cycle ways across reserves such as across Mulanggari Reserve to allow staff and college students from Franklin, Palmerston, Crace and Harrison to access the town centre. These paths could be constructed in such a way as to concentrate impacts rather than allow uncontrolled access and therefore damage, and to provide interpretive information to foster knowledge and awareness of the environmental values of the reserves. We support strengthening the landscape links, and particularly a linear link to Horse Park drive along Ian Potter Crescent and Cantamessa Ave – but as a green link rather than built form. The open space reserve at the bottom end of the Valley Avenue could also play an important role in this open space network. GCC has been promoting the concept of turning this land into an environmental “learnscape”. This is a semi-natural park that would feature a chain of wetlands, boardwalks, pathways, observation areas and open space. The location of the park central to both Burgmann School and the Gungahlin College would provide an ideal opportunity for those schools to adopt a custodian role for the park, and to use is as a study base for environmental studies, thereby linking into the world-class environmental study courses offered by ANU. The upshot of this is that more of our children may be more likely to attend a local university rather than a live-away situation.
- by Alan Kerlin, GCC President
Managed by the Gungahlin Community Council To hire the facilities, everything you need to know is on www.gcc.asn.au Meeting Room 1 Casual $25.00 p/h Perm $17.50 p/h Meeting Room 2 Casual $15.00 p/h Perm $12.00 p/h
New timeslots available: Sunday morning, weekday mornings, afternoons and evenings Page 2
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What do you think of the plans for our town centre? Care to find out more? Visit the GCC website:
www.gcc.asn.au
GUNGAHLIN COMMUNITY COUNCIL From the Editor Clinton McRobert
From the President Alan Kerlin
Gungahlin Community Council
Gungahlin Community Council
THIS edition of GunSmoke has a brand new health section entitled ‘Health Port’. I hope readers find this both educational and empowering. This month our newest contributor, Psychiatrist Emma Prime tells us about herself, and provides some crucial information about a subject of concern to several medical experts in our town—that of Domestic Violence. I was informed recently that Gungahlin may have a large number of unreported incidents of this most damaging of societal maladies, although as is so often the case, the real figure is likely unknown. Local Doctors have mentioned to me their concern about the number of patients coming to them with problems arising from domestic violence. Family abuse leaves damage behind that festers- years beyond the brief explosion of anger that precedes it. Secondly, Domestic Violence (now known as ‘Family Violence’) can begin a virtual perpetual cycle, wiping out a family’s ability to trust, to love and to learn about what is right and wrong. For the family where it has repeatedly occurred without intervention there may be lives lived in immense pain and fear. We must think of the other silent victims too, our children. Perpetrators of Domestic Violence also, are trapped by the social rejection, and by the shame and/or issues that are cause the events. Seeking help for these individuals can begin a time of healing, hopefully before the damage is too great and the family falls apart– or worse. My thanks to our friend Bob Muir from the Gungahlin Police for his article on the matter also. To other bits—Gungahlin is fortunate to have an ever growing number of people who are taking up volunteering as a way of adding their abilities and time— and concerns and ideas into the mix. We have had numerous recent additions to the voluntary staff assisting with both Council matters and the newsletter, and this deserves a huge thank you to those great people. Elections, environment and development are top of this edition’s list of current affairs and I’m pleased to say there is plenty on offer this edition to keep you up to date! Plus there’s always more on our website: www.gcc.asn.au
LIKE the proverbial iceberg, much of what we do in GCC lies unseen—from small things like the missing links in footpaths around Harrison School and misleading and dangerous signage, to big picture work on new planning laws and sustainability initiatives, or ensuring new facilities will serve the community in a holistic way. But come election time, we see tangible evidence of our work. The way that Gungahlin has featured highly in many big-ticket announcements already says to us that our message is getting through. Gungahlin is no longer just a development site. We are a community of 34,000 people (a good sized town in most other parts of Australia), on our way to some 100,000 people On October 18 we will have the once four-yearly opportunity to hold our ACT government to account—for what they’ve done (or not done) over the previous term, and what we feel they’ll likely do either the same or differently over the next four years. Our choices are important: we can keep a majority government with either a return of the current party, try the other lot, or throw some cross-benchers in there to force more of a consensus approach. And if we go the path of a minority government, then it is all the more important we choose the crossbenchers carefully. On October 8, GCC will be holding one of the largest Meet the Candidates opportunities in Canberra. At time of writing, 25 candidates have accepted the invitation to come and answer your questions. So please make sure you show up in strength. Your numbers will ensure they all realise that Gungahlin will not accept being ignored as a community.
Handcraft markets stalled by red tape GCC has been supporting the attempts by local resident Julie Nicholls to establish a Handmade Market in the Linear Park in the Gungahlin town centre. But the bureaucrats are throwing all the red tape at her they can find, and the elected reps aren’t proving much help. In the latest, Chief Minister Jon Stanhope has advised Julie is ‘a worthy cause and something he supports but unfortunately the land cannot be used for commercial operations.’ What tripe. Public lands are used for semi-commercial purposes in every part of Australia, and many parts of Canberra. Enough! These markets will be good for our town centre. Who’ll get it going?? Disclaimer: GunSmoke is produced with the aim of allowing residents to keep in touch with their local community. It enables people to express views on a range of topics that do not necessarily represent the opinion of the editor, or members of the Gungahlin Community Council Inc.
Next GCC Meetings Next Meetings: 8 October 12 November 10 December Second Wednesday every month except January
GUNGAHLIN COMMUNITY COUNCIL PO Box 260, Gungahlin ACT 2912 President: Vice President: Secretary: Treasurer: Editor: Public officer: Web Admin:
info @gcc.asn.au
Alan Kerlin 0408 771633 Jonathon Reynolds 0418 812281 Nada Pavlak Sandra Macarthur-Onslow Clinton McRobert Kevin Cox 6241 0647 Estelle Sydney-Smith
www.gcc.asn.au
president vicepresident secretary treasurer gunsmoke publicofficer webadmin
@gcc.asn.au @gcc.asn.au @gcc.asn.au @gcc.asn.au @gcc.asn.au @gcc.asn.au @gcc.asn.au
GunSmoke is published bi-monthly in even numbered months – Feb, April, June, Aug, Oct, Dec Deadline for submission of articles and advertising is 15th of each odd-numbered month. To advertise your business or organisation in GunSmoke, please visit our website. Advertising requirements, costs and booking requests are all available online. GunSmoke 109
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COMMUNITY NEWS
How to fund and build a renewable Energy Power Plant for Canberra and who will own it. - by GCC Public Officer Dr Kevin Cox
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here has been an assumption that the new solar energy plant for Canberra will be owned by ActewAGL. It does not have to be this way and it could be owned by the consumers of electricity of Canberra who are being asked to pay for it through their purchase of electricity. Here is how it could work: A corporation called ACTSolar could be established to own the new power plant. ACTSolar will go to the Reserve Bank and ask it to loan it the money to build the plant. What interest rate should the Reserve Bank apply? Well as the Reserve Bank only needs to get its money back the interest rate should be the same as inflation and no more. The money will be repaid from future sales of electricity, and there is NO RISK associated with the loan and the money HAS to be spent building an asset which in turn will secure the loan. To build a 100 Megawatt continuous base load either geothermal or solar thermal plant will cost about $450M dollars. It will be repaid in 20 years without any increase in the price of power. Each time we pay for power the people paying for the power will get a percentage of the company ownership. After 20 years we owners will then get a dividend from the sale of the power for the next 80 years according to how much we have consumed over the previous 20 years. We could pay ActewAGL to operate the power plant but the cost would be recovered from the sale of electricity. Some may say that the Reserve Bank cannot give low interest loans. There is no reason at all why the Reserve Bank cannot create low interest loans and it continually changes the rate at which it charges interest. Some may say that this will be inflationary because a lot of extra money is being created with no asset backing. This is untrue because the money has to be spent on building the renewable power plant and hence the money is backed by the new asset and hence is not inflationary. This approach could be pioneered by the ACT but it can easily be extended to the rest of Australia and the world. It would result in a rapid decrease in greenhouse emissions as we start to
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produce more electricity from renewable sources at the same price to the consumer as existing electricity. This approach is a simpler, less expensive, less inflationary and more certain method of reducing emissions than the complicated methods that use Carbon Credits or Emissions Permits to increase the cost of energy and theoretically encourage investment in renewable energy sources.
Should the ACT’s prison population work for the needy? INMATES at Grafton Correctional Centre in NSW are making swags for use by the Northern Territory community’s homeless. 500 of the swags have been completed in two months, thanks to the Textile Unit at the Centre. The inspiration for the Grafton project has come from Jean Madden, founder of ‘Street Swags’. Ms Madden started making the items around 3 years ago in Queensland. 4000 swags have so far been made in various regions of Australia, and another 6000 are expected to be complete by the end of the year. GCC has informed Attorney General Simon Corbell of the idea, who says he will consider this and other ‘appropriate activities’. And we, I suppose, shall wait...
Are you on Facebook? Become a ‘fan’ of the Gungahlin Community Council. It’s an easy way to keep in touch with what's happening. In Facebook, just enter “Gungahlin Community Council” in the Search field, and you’ll find us.
‘Ambassadorial’ honour for local Rotarian
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ocal Rotarian Rowley Tompsett says he is honoured to have been appointed as an Ambassador for Rotary’s Operation Cleft. (Rowley is a member and Past President of the Rotary Club of Mitchell-Gungahlin). Operation Cleft is a Rotary project working in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Laos, India and Vietnam to provide operations to repair cleft lips and palates, enabling young children to be better accepted into their communities by improving their speech and hearing, and allowing them to have better education and life prospects. On accepting his appointment, Rowley said, “In Australia we simply do not realise the devastating effect a cleft lip or palate can have on children in a developing country. These children face rejection and ridicule, even as they develop into young adults; they have poor educational prospects and face an uncertain future … all this for the want of $200.” “Under the Operation Cleft program, operations are performed by qualified surgeons in each country, keeping the costs low. Ninety two cents of every dollar donated is used to provide the operations and therapy needed to give these children a second chance at life. Never could we get better value for $200”, Rowley said. A donation of $200 enables life-transforming surgery to be completed, resulting in: improved health prospects social acceptance improved speech and hearing improved self-esteem and education prospects an extension of these benefits to the extended family In his role as Ambassador, Rowley will be encouraging local Rotary clubs, local businesses and individual community members to consider ‘gifting a smile for life’. The first donation was made by the soonto-be Rotary Club of Gungahlin. This Club, which will charter on 13 October, has already contributed the funds to provide an operation for one Bangladeshi child. President-elect Sandra Mahlberg said ‘I hope this will be the first operation of many that our new Club will be able to provide. In Australia we do not realise how well-off we are, and how those things we take for granted can mean so much to people in the developing world.’ The new Club meets on Monday evenings at the Canberra Raiders Sports Club in Gungahlin. New members are always welcome and can contact Sandra on 0438 426 680. More information on Operation Cleft can be obtained from Rowley 6255 0121 or rowley.tompsett@optusnet.com.au
COMMUNITY NEWS
Our Lions to the rescue The Lions Club of Gungahlin is a small but energetic club that takes its motto of “Proudly supporting our local community” very seriously. As they are showing around our neighbourhood, they contribute to the local community and help local people in need. With the help of a grant from Lions NSW/ACT Save Sight and Public Health Foundations, Gungahlin Lions Club purchased an adult change table recently for the Warehouse, a community respite care centre for children located in Gungahlin. This enabled the centre to extend its services to care for young adults in the community. The Lions Club of Gungahlin also assisted with the purchase of a colourbond fence for a family in Ngunnawal to provide a safe and secure backyard for their autistic son. A little further afield, Gungahlin Lions provided a wheelchair head support for a 7 year old boy from Sutton with cerebral palsy. No request seems to big or small to them; Recently the club provided a mini skip for a lady in Gungahlin who needed a bit of a helping hand. When the local community got together in August to build a Fairy Garden for Olivia, a little girl in Ngunnawal who is battling an aggressive form of cancer, the Gungahlin Lions Club catered for the workers. During the year the club engages in a range of fundraising activities. While some fundraising happens outside the Gungahlin area, they rely on the generosity of Gungahlin residents throughout the year. So next time you see the Gungahlin Lions Club at ‘The G’ or the Market Place or Magnet Mart, or at some other local event, please stop and buy a sausage, a raffle ticket or a Christmas cake from them to help support your local community. The Lions Club of Gungahlin meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at the Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club. They always welcome new members. If you are interested in finding out more about the club contact Bonnie Fox on:
Operation Cleft Ambassador Rowley Tompsett presents the President of the new Rotary Club of Gungahlin, Sandra Mahlberg with recognition of the Club’s Support to Operation Cleft
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“I think that it’s a good idea. I think helping people into the housing market in that way is a great thing.” Tanya Plibersek, Federal Labor Housing Minister “A welcome and sensible initiative that would assist in the housing affordability problems in the ACT” Catherine Carter, ACT Property Council “If this had existed when we bought, we might not have been forced out of town.” Julian & Katarina, Yass
Authorised by Andrew Heath, Liberal Party, 50 Geils Court, Deakin ACT 2600 GunSmoke 109
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Environment
M Y C OT T E R , M Y P L AC E C O M M U N I T Y VA L U E S O F T H E C OT T E R PRECINCT
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ou may have heard from recent media that ACTEW Corporation is enlarging the Cotter Dam as one part of a range of measures currently in progress to secure Canberra’s water supply into the future. Do you want to know what will be happening in the Cotter area? Do you want to be able to have your say? There are a number of ways you can stay informed of our progress on the Enlarged Cotter Dam project or provide input and feedback to us, these are listed on the ACTEW web www.actew.com.au/ WaterSecurity/MajorProjects/ your_say.aspx
Tell us what You Think! Our brand new website is a great place to leave a comment, or to write a letter for publication in coming editions of GunSmoke www.gcc.asn.au
YMCA of Canberra Would you like to join a low-key exercise program starting soon in Gungahlin for people over 60? The program is fun, safe and effective! No special clothing required. To find out more and to register your interest please contact us at: Ph: 62810124
Surveys One way is to complete an online survey at the web address above. The survey has 29 questions and may take between 20–30 minutes. This information will help us develop with Parks Conservation and Lands (within TAMS) concepts and ideas for reinstatement and improvement of the area following construction. Alternatively we can email or post a copy of the survey to you.
Workshops There’s really no substitute for face-toface conversation so we have been
woden@ymca.org.au
Gungahlin’s “Best looking” store
INSIGHT OPTICAL is one of Canberra’s newest Optometry practices, and has been happily servicing the Gungahlin area now for two years from its prominent location opposite Coles in “The G” shopping centre. Insight Optical is owned and managed by Gungahlin locals who pride themselves on providing quality eye care and personalised service, particularly lacking in the large optical chain stores in Canberra and Australia. Insight Optical has the quality products, extensive knowledge and optical skills to give every patient the individual attention required, every single time. Your eyes are possibly the most important piece of clothing you wear because you NEED to see properly every single day! Why risk being restricted by worn out glasses or having a dated look, come in and see what you have been missing!!! Eye examinations are available and in most cases Bulk Billed through Medicare. The store has modern fashionable stock in a variety of frames, lenses, contacts and sunglasses. We use the best quality products, brands and styles at an affordable price. Call today to book in for an eye test, or drop in to see what Insight Optical can offer, and support local businesses who support other locals. "The G" Shopping Centre, Hibberson Street, Gungahlin Phone: 02 6262 4490 www.insightoptical.com.au Page 6
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holding a number of workshops in September and October. We will also address the Gungahlin Community Council meeting on 12 November. The meeting is at the Palmerston Community Centre from 7.30 pm. Another way to stay in touch is to register to become a Friend of the Cotter. Why should you become a Friend? You will receive an electronic newsletter that will provide you with: updates on the progress of works in the Cotter area stories about the cultural and heritage significance of the Cotter key dates for community consultation events and activities. Additionally, the draft environmental impact statement for the dam is nearing completion. We look forward to letting you know about this soon. To register your contact details, or receive a copy of the survey please phone our information line on ph: 6248 3563 or email us at watersecurity@actew.com.au - by Ray Hezkial Project Manager, Enlarged Cotter Dam
GUNGAHLIN TOWN CENTRE PLANNING STUDY
The State of the Territory – Commissioner for Sustainability - by GunSmoke Editor Clinton McRobert
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he September GCC Meeting was an ’extra green’ one... very lucky as we were to have had the Commissioner for Sustainability and the Environment Maxine Cooper as guest speaker. Ms Cooper brought with her the 2007-08 State of the Environment Report for the ACT as a presentation, viewed by a full room. It’s easy for one to think they know more about the state of our region’s environment – we’re fed varying statistics more and more each week it seems, but I was quite shocked about some of the information revealed in the report from the Commissioner’s office. It seems to me that the nation’s capital has little to be proud of when it comes to care for the planet. Among the findings for our Territory: Greenhouse gas emissions have increased by nearly 10% per capita since 1990. Our weather data is compromised due to the new buildings at the airport. In 2005-06 motor vehicles accounted for over 26% of air emissions. The ACT has the second highest electricity usage rate and the highest of in terms of emissions from electricity. In terms of our water usage and care: Urban water use has dropped 20% since Stage 3 restrictions in place. Dam storage levels dropped from 96%
in Dec 2000 to 45% in June 2003 and 36% in June 2007. Around 15,000 tonnes of salt per year (that’s 40 tonnes a day!) is released from the ACT. One-third of this comes from domestic and commercial sewerage such as powdered laundry detergents. Our Energy and Water consumption: Electricity and gas usage has increased for 2007-08 by 10.6% and 2.6% respectively. ‘Greenpower’ counts for less than 2% of electricity supply. ACT residents waste: $1,475, per person—per year on unused items (mostly food).
49% of what we throw in the bin is organic– and therefore could be collected separately and used productively (Ed: better than blocks being built over methane pits !) Total waste has increased BY 87%!yet population growth has been around 10% over last 11 years or so. There is some good news for us though: Rural land area has decreased – much of this has become protected. Our population density is about an eighth of Eastern Sydney’s! WANT TO KNOW MORE? See a full video of the report at our website www.gcc.asn.au
Part of the 2008 ACT Territory Plan, showing expansion of the CZ1 Core and CZ2 Business zones that will hopefully lead to major employers relocating to Gungahlin GunSmoke 109
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HOME AND GARDEN
Sustainable House Day ...walking the walk
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or the last decade, Gungahlin Community Council president Alan Kerlin has spent a lot of time lobbying governments and the building trade about more sustainable housing and planning. So when it came time to build his own home in Harrison, you can bet it had all the sustainability ‘i’s dotted and ‘t’s crossed. And the home that he and wife Gaylene Bell built was a hit on the recent Sustainable House Day, with almost 200 people touring the home and learning about its features. Alan explains his home: The goal was to build a 6-star plus house on a budget, with: direct winter sunlight in every living and bedroom; no direct summer sun comply with principles of energy and water efficiency, safety, security and universal access flexible room selection and design to preserve yard space for children to do this on a modern small suburban lot (569sq m), with largely conventional materials and building methods, to demonstrate a ‘better way’ to a mainstream local builder. The home is on an east-west oriented block, meaning a virtual ‘wall of glass’ along the north side (pictured), resulting in sundrenched rooms in winter, and predominantly passive solar heating – a couple of hours of winter sun brings the house above 20 degrees. In-slab gas-fired hydronic heating covers overcast periods – and it also can be run on pump only (no
heating) to distribute passive solar heat around whole slab. Thermally-improved window frames with ComfortPlus laminated Low-E glass reduces winter heat loss and summer heat gain. All windows are shaded by large eaves or awnings to prevent summer sun access. In summer, the home’s internal “thermal syphon” design will come to the fore, with the loft able to be opened over summer nights to purge internal heat – assisted by full-height doors. 100% of the roof is piped to a 9000 litre tank (double the estate’s mandatory tank size), and plumbed to the garden, toilets and laundry through a special automatic switch. Smartflo enclosed gutters minimise maintenance, mosquito breeding, and bushfire risk. A grey-water
capture/pump-out system is also plumbed to garden irrigation. The landscaping is yet to be done (some big weekends ahead…) but the plan is designed to reduce runoff, provide maximum shading of the house from summer afternoon sun, and maintain entertaining and kids play areas in the backyard, including areas for fruit trees and veges. A full clothes hoist also reduces drier use. Through the first winter, the home has proven wonderfully comfortable, with the heating bill for winter only a couple of hundred dollars. But further tuning of the heating system should see that reduce even further. Find more info under ‘Alan Kerlin’ on Facebook, or on: www.sustainablehouseday.com
New Age Street Fix
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ix My Street is a new section on our website www.gcc.asn.au. GCC uses the simplicity of the internet and Google Maps to get your problem fixed. Potholes, missing signs, dead trees, whatever. All those "roads, rates, rubbish" things that seem to 'slip through the cracks'. We'll see if we can help you get something done. Simply log onto maps.google.com.au and zoom in on the location of the problem. Select the Link button on the right and copy the 'Paste link in email' text, then go to the Fix My Street module on our website and follow the instructions. Phone 7888 However if your6242 problem is urgent, call Canberra Connect on 13 22 81. Page 8
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GUNGAHLIN COMMUNITY NEWS Advertisement
WANTED! Our Editor, Clinton needs a second person to help produce the GunSmoke newsletter.
“GP Clinic for Gungahlin” Lately the NSW State Government has been running TV ads telling people not to go to hospital emergency departments. They rightly argue that people should “save emergency departments for emergencies.” Sadly the reality in the ACT is that many families have nowhere else to turn other than hospital if someone gets sick in the middle of the night. Private GP practices in the ACT usually close by 6pm and even the largest services close their doors no later than 10pm. The only after-hours private service, known as “CALMS” charges full upfront fees. This is not a bulk billing service and some Canberrans cannot afford the fees when they unexpectedly fall sick. People do not plan when to get sick. The NSW Government supports 16 afterhours GP services, including services in regional towns like Wagga Wagga, Albury, Dubbo and Broken Hill. It is unacceptable that Canberra with all its resources and population does not have a bulk billing afterhours GP service.
gling to pay new mortgages and childcare costs. A Canberra Liberal Government will commit $19.8 million towards the operating costs for three bulk billing after-hours GP services in the suburbs that need them most. This will include a service in Gungahlin, staffed from 6pm to 2am, operating seven days per week. This centre will be staffed by one GP and a senior nurse at any one time. And as Gungahlin grows, the operating hours and staffing of the centre will also grow. The Stanhope Government refuses to fund after hours GP services in Gungahlin. It says it will build a centre for other health services, but the 2008 ACT budget only includes money for construction. There is no funding in the budget to support the operating costs for any coal-face services in Gungahlin.
We need to split the job into one person handling the advertising, and the other doing the layout and articles (we use MS Publisher).
Can you help? Please call Alan Kerlin on 0408 771633.
Please keep up the good work. We need a voice for Gungahlin! - Website Visitor
The Canberra Liberal GP clinic will operate from leased premises and open its doors next year. By contrast Labor’s empty building is not budgeted to be built until 2011. Labor has a cosmetic fix for the election, while we have a real long-term solution to the needs of a growing community.
Canberra is Australia’s largest inland city and has a bitter winter climate. There is a real need for after hours bulk billing care— particularly for young families who are strug- Zed Seselja MLA, Canberra Liberals
Proudly supporting the Gungahlin community. Gungahlin Lakes Golf and Community Club pays for GunSmoke distribution costs. GunSmoke 109
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YOUR SAY
Online Survey Reveals Home Truths
W
e’ve been greatly encouraged here at GCC by the many responses received so far to our online community survey, and by the number of visitors to our newly designed website www.gcc.asn.au An election candidate said recently to GCC president Alan Kerlin “when I talk with people around the traps, they’re saying much the same things you’re saying in your meetings and media work.” Alan responded: “that’s because we ask them.” And one of the key ways we do this is by running community surveys every year or so. The table has a summary of the key results so far. We’ll be keeping the survey open for one month after this issue of GunSmoke is delivered so we have a strong results to ensure reliable data. We use this information to shape the work that we do in representing our community, and we’ll make sure that the election candidates see them too, so they are making more informed policy decisions. There are some clear messages coming through for both incumbents and candidates we think. As usual there is a lot of ‘gold’ in the free text comments people leave. So please jump online and visit us at the above address—your thoughts, likes
and dislikes should be heard! Thanks so much to all who have contributed to the survey so far.
Rate the issue in terms of importance to you (100% is High): Access to Broadband Town Centre planning and development Health facilities Public transport Road networks in and around Gungahlin Community facilities Employment in the Town Centre Sporting facilities Child care facilities Youth facilities Construction of the public college Facilities for the aged Are you satisfied with the (100% is high): Current built form (buildings, shops, apartments, road network etc) in the town centre - has the planning and development resulted in a suitable result Streetscapes and look of housing in the newer suburbs of Gungahlin Level of information and consultation provided by the ACT Government with regard to new and upcoming development in the town centre precinct Level of information and consultation provided by the ACT Government with regard to the development of new Gungahlin suburbs Choice and availability of different block sizes you were offered (if owning or considering buying property in Gungahlin) Final outcome of the new paved Linear Park in the middle of the town centre
Average 88 84 84 82 80 76 75 70 66 64 64 62 Score 44 44 45 45 47 45
New June 2008 timetable and network changes (if you use ACTION buses) Local employment:
49
If you are considering or currently work in the Public Service and a Government Department or Agency (ACT or Federal) were to locate an office in Gungahlin would you seek employment with them? Gungahlin Community Council
89
Are you satisfied with the (100% is high):
Score
- Way the GCC is representing issues to gov’t on behalf of the community
67
- Quality and content of the GCC website as provided by the GCC - Quality and content of the bi-monthly GunSmoke newsletter
71 72
Climate Family Day
R
esidents of Gungahlin are invited to a Family Day on 12 October in support of climate change action. The day is being held by the community organisation GetUp and will feature the arrival of four torches currently running right around Australia as part of GetUp’s huge Climate Torch Relay. (wwwclimatetorch.com ) Canberra GetUp’s event will be a grand finale to the relay. From 9.30 am there is a gathering at Reconciliation Place for aerial photographs followed by a short walk to Federation Mall, starting at 11 am. From 12 to 4 pm the celebrations will continue on the lawns in front of Parliament House with stage Page 10
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entertainment, food and drink (nonalcoholic), music and roving entertainers. Stalls and booths will display climate and environmentally-friendly information and products. Special celebrations will accompany the presentation of the Climate Change torches to Government. Excellent prizes will be given for best climate costume, best decorated bike and a raffle for families and individuals pledging to contribute to reducing carbon emissions and changing wasteful habits. There will be a major prize for Canberra’s Climate Hero (individual, family or school). Please email ronkiew@bigpond.net.au for a nomination form.
COMMUNITY
- by Alan Kerlin, GCC President
I
n the last issue of GunSmoke, we proposed that the time is right for light rail. Since then there has been a lot of movement on the concept – aided and abetted by the skyrocketing fuel prices no doubt. The ACT Government has started to get serious about rail, backing their application for funding from Infrastructure Australia with funding to conduct an analysis. We’ve been saying all along that a full cost-benefit analysis would likely reveal that off-sets like additional land sales income and reduced road costs would likely pay for light rail. So this study is welcomed- as long as the brief is appropriately framed to allow it to explore these issues. Meanwhile the Canberra business community has formed an alliance with the Conservation Council to promote light rail. In September they brought public transport ‘guru’ Dr Peter Newman – the man behind the renaissance of Perth’s public transport system – to Canberra to explain how Perth did it. The Village Building Company is to redevelop the old theme park in North Watson, and is plugging for a rail link to
extend beyond the Flemington Road turnoff to service North Watson. And the Government’s park and ride strategy is due for release soon. GCC has been pushing for a large park and ride in the overflow car-parking in EPIC. It would make use of largely wasted space, capture Gungahlin and over-the-border commuters before they start rat-running through Watson Hackett and Ainslie into
Beyond Blue - National Depression Initiative - by Clinton McRobert beyondblue.org.au. A quick way to help and information for depression and anxiety. I put my hand up last year and became a volunteer and contributor for beyondblue. So far I've assisted with a great deal of research with various Universities around the country, have been asked to comment on government legislation and other items like assessing effective alternative therapy for sufferers. In addition, beyondblue will be providing much of the resources for the mental health and social networking forums that I will be launching at the start of 2009. More on this later, but for now here's some information on how beyondblue helps those who are depressed or anxious. Beyondblue states: ‘Community Awareness and Destigmatisation- beyondblue's first goal is to increase community awareness of
depression, anxiety and substance-use related disorders and improve understanding of the experiences of persons whose lives are affected. Through increased awareness of the characteristics of the illness, and personal contact with those whose lives have been directly affected, beyondblue aims to reduce the stigma that still surrounds depression and related conditions. Consumers and Carers- Genuine participation in all beyondblue programs by people whose lives have been affected by depression is a key aspect of beyondblue. The organisation has supported the development of a new national body, blueVoices to take forward the wide range of issues that arose in beyondblue's national community forums and specific focus groups with consumers and carers. There are many opportunities across the life cycle for prevention. Many approaches depend on community-wide, and not just individual, behavioural
the city. The light rail link could service all the medium residential area along the Federal Highway in North Watson, then turn via the EPIC park and ride on its way to Gungahlin. We’re not getting too excited just yet, as it may just all be pre-election hype, but there may just be a glimmer of ‘light at the end of the tunnel’. change. Increasing community connection, promoting widespread uptake of specific psychological and behavioural skills, providing access to parenting skills training, reducing exposure to abuse and promoting better physical health in older persons are key areas of action. beyondblue's fundamental role is to support those large population-based trials that can provide the information needed to influence subsequent national health policy. Early intervention depends on earlier recognition of signs and symptoms, greater awareness among primary care and other medical workforces, and promotion of attitudes that encourage persons of all ages to seek care. In this area, beyondblue can have an immediate impact through its postnatal depression, schools research, work-based and general medical programs’. The website is something I recommend if you are looking for help or information.
www.beyondblue.org.au GunSmoke 109
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A Q&A with GunSmoke’s Newest Member GunSmoke Editor Clinton McRobert talks with our new health correspondent, Psychiatrist Emma Prime from Gungahlin General Practice.
Editor: What does your field of work cover? Emma: Psychology covers a huge realm – sports, forensics, clinical, neuropsychology, organisational, human factors, general counselling, assessment – to name but a few. In fact, there is a psychological aspect to many areas these days, such as recruitment, security checks, enhancing sports and work performance, military preparation, aircraft accidents, study and training. Psychologists who provide personal counselling also deal with a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, stress management, grief, chronic pain, addiction, relationship difficulties, work problems, career guidance, trauma, and behavioural issues – again, just to name a few. Generally speaking, no matter what your problem or concern may be, you can come along and talk to a psychologist about it. Ed: Do you specialise in any field? EP: For the past five years I have worked as an organisational psychologist with Department of Defence, including as psychologist for air force personnel at RAAF bases in Williamtown and Edinburgh. I have a strong interest in human factors (the study of all aspects of the way humans relate to the world around them), leading me to complete a Graduate Diploma of Technology in this field with Swinburne University. Since April 2008, I have been providing counselling and psychological treatment to clients at Gungahlin General Practice (GGP). In particular, I specialise in depression (including postnatal), anxiety, stress, trauma and interpersonal relationships; however, I see many people with a variety of other concerns and problems. In addition, I am part of the GGP Injury and Rehabilitation Centre, which also includes a chiropractor and exercise physiologist. Consequently I see many clients who Page 12
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experience chronic pain, often as the result of a traumatic event, like a car accident. My goals are to help these clients manage their pain better in order to improve their lifestyle, return to work or their usual activities with minimal restrictions, recover from the original trauma that may have caused the injury or pain, and deal with any resulting psychological issues (such as depression or anxiety). I am also the co-founder of the Canberra Postnatal Depression Treatment Group, which is a 9-week group therapy treatment program aimed at providing skills to mothers to improve mood and coping ability. Ed: Where have you lived? EP: I am originally from Adelaide but moved to Canberra when I was three. In the late 1980s I lived in Virginia, USA, for three years and attended high school there. In 2005 I spent a year living near Port Stephens while working at RAAF Base Williamtown, and in 2006 I worked for 12 months at RAAF Base Edinburgh in Adelaide. Otherwise, I have spent the other 25 years living in Canberra – ten of those in Gungahlin. Ed: Emma how did you come to be in this field of work? EP: In Year 10 I studied an introductory psychology course, and decided that I could enjoy pursuing this as a full-time job in the future. Making a decision like that – determining my whole career path - at the age of 14 did not seem as momentous at the time as it probably should have been! But I followed through, and after finishing Year 12, I attended ANU and completed my degree with a double major in psychology. I then completed a twoyear internship in order to gain the required qualifications for full registration as a psychologist. Ed: As you'll now be a regular contributor to GunSmoke Newsletter what types of things fascinate you about the mind? EP: It is amazing that despite the wealth of variety amongst people, the uniqueness of every person, and individually how we all experience the world in different ways, the mind can still fall into the same old thinking traps! There are a set of common negative
thinking styles that affect us all to varying degrees, and it comes down to our ability to cope with or manage them effectively as to whether they cause us psychological distress. Ed: What is one of your favourite ways to de-stress? EP: I have many, depending on what is happening in my life. I might read a good book, watch TV or a DVD (I do enjoy a good episode of Dr Who!) or catch up with friends over a decent latte. I have always enjoyed playing sports, so being active, getting some exercise, or taking my children to the park are great ways for me to unwind – especially now the weather is getting kinder. And I love to cook – or more specifically, bake. There’s something about getting in the kitchen and making a meal or dessert from scratch that I find rather satisfying and somehow relaxing! Ed: If readers are feeling down, what are some good 'pick-me-ups' that could fit into our busy lifestyles? EP: Get involved! Whether that’s with your family, your community, or simply for yourself, it’s important to link into activities that you enjoy and find pleasurable. Spending time with people who make you feel good and appreciate your company is also a nice way to feel emotionally revitalised. And now that spring has arrived and the days are getting longer, it’s surprising how a bit of sunshine and fresh air can boost your mood – even a lunch time stroll or a quick play outside with the kids after work. If you continue feeling down for more than two weeks and are experiencing difficulties sleeping, significant changes in appetite or weight, concentration problems, or loss of interest in things, it would be a good idea to speak to someone about it – either a friend or family member, or health professional such as your GP or a psychologist. If you are experiencing any thoughts of self-harm, it is important to contact your GP or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Editor: Thanks Emma—we can look forward to hearing from Emma next week as we talk about mental health, and again we have Bob Muir sharing his thoughts on the subject also. Lastly, I recommend the Australian .site www.beyondblue.org.au
Bob’s Place Detective Sergeant Bob Muir Gungahlin Station ACT Policing
D
omestic Violence - better described as Family Violence incidents are among the many issues to which ACT Policing officers are called to attend as part of their regular duties. These situations are always challenging for our officers as they are well aware of the potential complexities of relationships and how under emotional distress, people can act unreasonably and without proper care for the welfare of others. The Family Violence Intervention Program was initiated in 1998 after an extensive consultation process involving
police, counsellors, policy-makers and healthcare workers. Where a criminal offence is suspected in a family violence situation, police have a responsibility to investigate fully and if appropriate, take an offender into custody. Police will also offer victims the services of the Domestic Violence Crisis Service (DVCS), which provide counselling, advice and support. If you or someone you know needs support directly following a crisis they can contact: DVCS on 6280 0900. The issue of family violence is a ‘whole of community concern’ and offences of this nature need to be brought to the attention of police so as to protect victims from any further harm and to ensure they receive the support they need. If you are subjected to family violence
or you know someone who may be a victim of family and/or domestic violence, I urge you to contact ACT Policing. Remember, if you require urgent police assistance call ‘000’. To contact police on matters other than emergencies and/or where you require police attendance, call 131 444. If you would like to make an anonymous report about suspected family violence, you can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the website at www.act.crimestoppers.gov.
Counselling & Therapy Services individual couple family stress anger sex depression grief Caring Confidential Affordable Adrian Adair QMACA Gungahlin 0414 813 461
C*A*L*D - Culturally and linguistically diverse MOTHERS STEPPING OUT TOGETHER Providing mothers & grandmothers of all cultures with: Exercise with qualified instructor Special Events, Fun and Laughter Lunch FREE Child Minding WHERE: Palmerston Community Centre Tiptree Crescent (next to shops) WHEN: Fridays Fortnightly (exc school holidays) TIME: 11.30AM - 2.00PM COST: $4.00 RSVP essential For more information, please call Prillisia on 0422737751 or ParentLine on 62873833
129 Hinder St Gungahlin ACT 2912 PH: 62410888 Fax: 62410877 Are you suffering from pain caused by an injury or bio mechanical problem? If so you don’t need to suffer any longer. Ms Alli Watson, Exercise Physiologist, is now practicing from our clinic and can help you. Specialising in pain management, gym rehabilitation programs, chronic injury and diabetes management programs and assessing and fitting of orthotic devices all used to help manage your pain and get you feeling good again. Why not ring today on 6241 0888 to make an appointment to have your needs assessed. After hours and Saturday appointments available. GunSmoke 109
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HEALTH BEAUTY and FITNESS
Domestic Violence – adding up to a family of victims Family violence Family (or domestic) violence is a serious issue affecting adults, young people and children both physically and emotionally. Abuse in families and relationships is not normal, in fact, it is a crime, says Gungahlin Psychiatrist Emma Prime...
F
amily violence occurs when a person uses violent and/or abusive behaviour to control someone with whom they have some type of ‘family relationship’. Statistically, most violence in the home is committed by men, with women and children most often being the victims. However, family violence can occur in other types of relationships. For example, parents can be abused by their teenage or adult children. Women can abuse their children or partner. Violence can occur in same-sex relationships. Children can be abused by siblings. What kind of behaviours are included in the name family violence ? physical abuse (such as hitting, pushing, kicking) threats to hurt you or others, or to stop providing care for you damaging property such as furniture, clothing, walls emotional abuse (criticising or constantly putting you down) verbal abuse (including yelling, namecalling, swearing at you) sexual abuse financial abuse (taking control of the money, not giving you enough money to survive on) social abuse (controlling where you go, not letting you see your friends or family) depriving you of the necessities of life, like food, shelter, medical care spiritual abuse (forcing you to attend religious activities against your wishes, prohibiting you from participating in the religious practices of your choice) stalking (constantly following you, constantly calling or sending emails) Effects of family violence There are many social and psychological consequences for victims of family violence, such as: anxiety, depression and other emotional distress, physical stress symptoms (tension, headaches), suicide attempts, alcohol and Page 14
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drug abuse, sleep disturbance, reduced coping and problem solving skills, loss of self esteem and confidence, social isolation, fear of starting new relationships, living in fear, and other major impacts on quality of life. Common impacts on children of victims include emotional and behavioural problems, lost school time and poor school performance, adjustment problems, stress, reduced social competence, bullying and excessive cruelty to animals, running away from home, and relationship problems. The cycle of violence
The Family Violence Cycle – hard to break.
The “cycle of violence” explains how and why the behaviour of a person who commits family violence may change so dramatically over time. The cycle goes through a number of phases, but it is not the same for everyone. Sometimes a phase does not occur, or two or more phases can occur simultaneously. The build up phase is when tension begins to build. In a non-violent relationship, these tensions can often be resolved. But in a family violence situation, this build up phase usually leads to a stand-over phase, where the violent person uses both their strength, and their belief in their 'right' to dominate, in order to control and put others down. This then leads to the explosion phase when the violence occurs. Afterwards, the perpetrator can enter the remorse phase, where they feel ashamed of what has happened, or they may be afraid of the consequences. They may try to justify or minimise their actions, with claims like “it was only a little slap”. This can then lead to the
pursuit phase, where the abusive person can try to win back affection with gifts or promises. Or if these tactics do not work, they can also revert to the use of more threats and violence. This then leads to the honeymoon phase where things appear to be going well - the 'incident' is forgotten and no abuse is taking place. However nothing is resolved and it is only a matter of time until there is another build up of tension, leading to another stand- over, explosion of violence, and so on. Anger Anger can often lead to violence if not properly controlled. It becomes a problem when others around you are frightened, hurt or feel they cannot talk or disagree with you in case you become angry. Anger management is about understanding your anger, why it happens, and learning better ways to handle it. If you know what the triggers and early warning signs are, you may be able to avoid these situations or do something differently when they happen. In addition, learning appropriate techniques to calm down will help you manage the situation before it gets out of control. Canberra Men’s Centre (6230 6999) and Relationships Australia (1300 364277) both run anger management courses. A healthy relationship When anyone uses some form of violence or abuse in a relationship, it is clear that things are not right. Any good relationship should be based on equality and mutual respect. It accepts the need for privacy on both sides, and allows for differences of opinion. A healthy relationship should be fun, enjoyable, and not include unrealistic demands. When one person uses violent or abusive tactics to control someone else, it can be very damaging. Help and support No one should have to cope with family violence alone. You may, of course, choose to approach friends or other family members, or a community group for support and assistance. There are also many professionals available to help both people who have experienced family violence, as well as those who have committed it. Here are some contact details if you need to seek help or want to change your behaviour. Domestic Violence Crisis Service (24 hours) 6280 0900 Lifeline 13 11 14 Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 Mensline (24 hours) 1300 789 978 Women’s Information and Referral
HEALTH BEAUTY and FITNESS
Gungahlin Uniting Church A place of Christian faith and community for all people Sunday at 9.30am at Ngunnawal Primary School (Unaipon Ave.)
Rev. Mark Faulkner. 62425001 www.gungahlinuniting.org
GUNGAHLIN ANGLICAN CHURCH Bergmann Anglican School Valley Ave, Gungahlin Service times Sundays 9.30am, 5pm and 7pm Rector: Rev Michael Dasey 62555022 Associate Minister Rev Andrew Taylor 62420700 admin@gungahlinanglican.org.au www.gungahlinanglican.org.au
5NGUNNAWAL MEDICAL AND SKIN CLINIC5
6242 0029 WHY WAIT TO SEE A SKIN SPECIALIST?? Do you know-----Your local GP can offer the same specialized services much more quickly and at much lower cost
NEW LIFE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 107 Wanganeen Ave, Ngunnawall Rev Mark Adams 02 6241 3750 m_adams@internode.on.net www.nlpc.org.au
CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN CHURCH Gold Creek, Holy Spirit Shared Campus Kellaway Street, Nicholls 02 6255 6087 SUNDAY: 10.00am Worship and Children’s Church
DR NEENA SOOD DR CAROLINE KHIN-CHEN Dip Dermatology (Wales, UK) MBBS MBBS FRACGP SKIN CLINIC & CANCER SCREENING Acne, Psoriasis, Eczema, Skin Rashes, Skin Cancer surgery, Management of Medical Conditions of Hair and Nails Women’s and child health
6242 0029 Ngunnawal Shopping Centre, Wanganeen Avenue, NGUNNAWAL ACT GunSmoke 109
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GUNGAHLIN REGIONAL COMMUNITY SERVICE
Your questions answered ? What is Gungahlin Regional Community Service Inc. (GRCS)? Your local not-for-profit non-government community service. What do we do ? Our services include :School Aged Care at Amaroo, Gold Creek/Holy Spirit Shared Campus, Harrison, Palmerston, Good Shepherd, & Ngunnawal Primary Schools. Family & Community Support including family mediation & gentle exercise courses. Holiday programs for school aged children, young people & young people with disabilities. Support groups for migrants, carers, the elderly, families with young children, young people, young parents, & young people with disabilities. Community transport for medical appointments & shopping. Community facilities at the Gungahlin Community Resource Centre & Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Centre for hire by community & private groups. Publication of the Gungahlin Residents’ Guide. Community Development programs including the Gungahlin Community Network & the Gungahlin Interagency. Training in basic computer skills & courses assisting women to return to work, study or to be a community volunteer. Where are these services ? Suite 1.1 Gungahlin Marketplace; Gungahlin Community Resource Centre; Gungahlin Youth Centre; & Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Centre Is there a service or an activity that you have needed and couldn’t find in Gungahlin? Contact us at on 6228 9200 or email grcs@gungahlin.org or talk to one of our staff! What can you do ? Have your say as a resident!! Check out our website ! www.grcs.org.au Join GRCS as a member (Cost $2 per year); to ensure that we are working to meet you, your family and/or friends needs!
New community bus available for community groups. Conditions apply. Contact 6242 6246 Email : grcsbus@gungahlin.org cc to grcscsm@gungahlin.org
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GUNGAHLIN REGIONAL COMMUNITY SERVICE
ACRYLIC ART CLASSES 11th Annual General Meeting 23rd October 2008 Notice is hereby given that the AGM of GRCS Inc. will be held at the Gungahlin Raiders Sports Club, 23 Hibberson St, Gungahlin on Tuesday 28th October 2008 at 6.30pm. The AGM will include the Presentation of the Annual Report, the Audited Financial Statements, election of the Management Committee members and any other business for which due notice has been given. Gungahlin residents are invited to become members of GRCS to ensure that we continue to provide programs and services which are responsive to the needs of our changing and growing community. Cost $2 per annum. For further Information on GRCS refer to www.grcs.org.au For membership enquiries or to RSVP to the AGM, please telephone 6228 9200 or email grcs@gungahlin.org by 5pm 17th October.
New Horizons is a free career skills program which assists people to reenter the workforce, commence studies or become a volunteer. Participants are assisted to set goals and write or update their resume. Other topics covered include interview techniques and how to address selection criteria. Childcare: is provided for children Under the age of 6, free of charge on site. Venue: the program is conducted at the Gungahlin Community Resource Centre, Ernest Cavanagh St Gungahlin. NEXT COURSE STARTS OCTOBER 21. To book please ring 6123 4422 or 6123 4400.
Gungahlin Community Markets
G.R.C.S. is now holding monthly markets in Linear Park (opposite the Central Café). They are held the 4th Saturday of the month 10am—2pm weather permitting. If you would like to become a stall
English Conversation Classes
NEXT MARKETS
G.R.C.S. conducts English classes for residents from non– English speaking backgrounds every Friday at the Gungahlin Community Resource Centre 1pm—2.30pm. These classes are free of charge. Please ring 6123 4422 or 6123 4400 for more information.
October 25 November 22
G.R.C.S is commencing 3 new art courses in October. The classes cater for beginners through to advanced painters. The courses cost $60 or $50 for concession card holders. TUESDAYS: Beginner Classes with Morag 1pm-4pm for 6weeks Commencing mid October Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Centre THURDAYS: Advanced Classes with Morag 1pm-4pm for 6 weeks Commencing mid October Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Centre Beginner & Intermediate Classes with Tonia 12.30pm– 2.30pm for 7 weeks Commencing October 23 Palmerston Community Centre To book a place in any of the above Classes please ring 6123 4422. We are also interested in hearing from people who are interested in attending evening painting classes.
Coffee BREAK A women’s discussion, craft and coffee Group. The group meets on Thursdays 10am – midday. The cost is $3 per week. Childcare is available at $3 per week for 1 child : $4 per week for 2 or more children. Bookings essential. Please call 6123 4422 to book. BOOK CLUB??? If you would like to join a local book club please ring 6123 4422 to register your interest.
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Our New Opening Hours are: TUESDAY 9-8.30 WEDNESDAY 9-8.30 THURSDAY 9-8.30 FRIDAY 9-6 SATURDAY 8-5 Our newly renovated team has grown from a team of 7 to 18 -we now have 2 receptionists and a full time salon coordinator/manager and a creative director training the team in the latest cuts and colours
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A Warm Welcome Back to Anne-maree !! We also welcome back Stevie and a big welcome to new team member Michelle !
Extended opening hours for Christmas - taking bookings now!
COMMUNITY
Tension Headache: A Real Pain in the Neck Headache is one of the most common health related conditions in Australia. It is likely that nearly all of us will experience headache during our lifetime. Tension headache is the most common type of headache. Two out of three people will have at least one tension headache in their lifetime. Tension headaches can be caused by physical or emotional stress as well as malalignments of the spine and neck, poor posture and muscle tension all of which can refer pain into the head. They can also be aggravated by factors such as fatigue and cold. A tension headache is thought to be due to muscle tightness in the scalp, forehead and the back of the neck. This can be triggered by: Tension and stress Tiredness Poor posture Spine and neck injuries Physical or emotional stress.
restricted by muscular stiffness and discomfort ache in the back recurrent and episodic pain (often in association with stress) that can last for minutes, hours or days trouble concentrating and difficulty sleeping. If your headaches are caused by neck problems, you may be helped by massage and physiotherapy. You can be given dramatic relief with an appropriate combination of massage (to help release the muscles that may be causing the headache), stretching (to help maintain the length of the muscles) and heat (which can soothe muscle pain and ease tension). Most people also benefit from a strength program to strengthen neck and back muscles and improve posture. Jenni Mulgrue works as a massage therapist at Sport & Spinal Physiotherapy in Gungahlin Town Centre
Symptoms may include: dull and persistent pain that may vary in intensity (mild to moderate) and is usually felt on both sides of the head or neck (some however experience jabs of sudden pain in the head) a constant, tight, heavy or pressing sensation on or around the head tautness and tenderness of the scalp, neck and shoulder muscles neck movements (active or passive)
RE: FREE COURSES for Jobseekers NOW with CERTIFICATE IVs Quest Solutions have just been approved for Certificate IV of the Productivity Places Program funding, which means they are approved to run the following free courses for jobseekers. Security Operations – Certificate II & III (now available Certificate IV) Aged Care Work – Certificate III (now available Certificate IV) Disability Work – Certificate III (now available Certificate IV) Retail – Certificate II & III Hospitality – Certificate II & III (now available) Training & Assessment – Certificate IV (now available) This is a great opportunity for jobseekers to expand or improve their skills. The conditions for attending the courses are: Must be a jobseeker not currently employed Must be an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident Must not be self employed or a full time student Must be of working age (15 years & over) Quest is Canberra’s multi award winning, number one training provider, who has been providing training and employment for 20 years. We offer the training and skills to give jobseekers the best chance to secure a job. For further information, please contact: Naomi Hogie Marketing and Sales Manager Quest Solutions - Civic
Hard work pays off for local champion LOCAL Junior Ballroom Dancer, Victor Siharath, reached a new highlight in his career on Sunday 31 August when he and his partner Kathaleen Fisher, won the Junior Open Standard, Latin and New Vogue events to become the 2008 ANDA National Junior Champions. Victor and Kathaleen formed their partnership 12 months ago, and since then, have worked very hard to rise through the ranks to win their first national title. Both Victor and Kathaleen commenced dancing about 7 years ago, but did not get a chance to know each other until 2007. At that time, Danceway Ballroom Dancing Studio – Canberra, joined forces
with a Sydney Studio – the Schembri Dance Centre. Bacause Victor trains with Danceway, and Kathaleen trains with Schembri, they finally got to meet each other, and decided to form a partnership. Both Victor and Kathaleen share a common desire to become champions, and that hunger linked with their similar natures was immediately evident. Since partnering 12 months ago, Victor and Kathaleen have won at least one event every time they competed. This feat in itself is remarkable as Victor lives in Gungahlin, and Kathaleen lives in Sydney, so they can only practice and have lessons on weekends. This involves a lot of travel and
concentration so is a testimate to their dedication. Despite this handicap, they have excelled in their chosen sport – DanceSport – and are setting their sights firmly on December in Melbourne where they will represent the ACT and NSW in their bid to gain the most prestigious title of the year – Australian Junior Champions. Victor has always learnt at Danceway Ballroom Dancing Studio. Now that Danceway has moved into a new studio at Unit 3/48 Brookes Street, Mitchell, everyone in the Gungahlin /North Canberra have access to the same quality tuition. For information ring 6255 5524. GunSmoke 109
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KIDS
Competition Winners
Thanks kids for all your entries in our colouring competition! Clearly they see a bright future for light rail! Our winners are: 7–15yo: Maisha (8) of Palmerston
Under 7s: Phoebe (6) and Joshua (2) of Gungahlin
Kids! Here’s a GetUp! Colouring-in picture for children up to 7 years. Great Prizes! Winners announced on Sunday 12 October at GetUp’s Climate Torch Family Day, 2-4pm at Federation Mall Post your entry to GetUp, 43 Carina Street, Ngunnawal 2913
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Congratulations kids. Drop in to The G centre management to get your $30 gift vouchers.