Gun gahlin Smoke signals
95
June 2006, Your Community Newsletter – Published by Gungahlin Community Council Inc. Distribution of 12,500 copies – Editor: Roma Hosking – Phone 6242 0485 Email: romahos@bigpond.net.au
Gungahlin Community Council Inc. Postal: PO Box 260, Gungahlin ACT 2912; Email: info@gcc.asn.au; Website: www.gcc.asn.au Executive Committee: President - Peter Coggan 6242 8265 (h) - president@gcc.asn.au; Vice President –-Vernu Venugoban - 0422 945 958 venugoban@hotmail.com; Secretary ––John Kelly; Treasurer – Barry Dee –Ph 62557511 treasurer@gcc.asn.au; Editor Gunsmoke - Roma Hosking – 6242 0485 email: romahos@bigpond.net.au Hire of Facilities: Palmerston Hall – 0409 691 153 ; Nicholls Community House - 6242 5004
Submissions to ACT Government The Community Councils from time to time are invited to make submissions regarding topics upon which the ACT Legislative Assembly is considering changing the law. You are invited to make submissions on the following: Standing Committee on Education, Training and Young People 1. - Voting Age Eligibility Inquiry:- referred to the Committee by the Legislative Assembly to consider support for a scheme which allows 16 and 17 year old residents to vote in ACT elections. 2. - Vocational Education and Training (VET) and Skill Shortages Inquiry:- to consider and report on the responses of the vocational education and training sector to skill shortages in the ACT workforce. More details about the scope of these inquiries can be obtained from the committee office or via the website: http://www.parliament.act.gov.au/committees/business.htm Submissions for both these inquiries are required by 28 July 2006 Making a submission: The committee request that all submissions include a postal address and telephone contact numbers. Electronic lodgement is preferred to: committee@parliament.act.gov.au Alternatively, submissions may be posted to GPO Box 1020, Canberra ACT 2601. More information about making a submission to a Legislative Assembly Committee is available from http://www.parliament.act.gov.au/committees/files/howto.pdf Further information about these inquiries or other committee activities can be obtained by telephone 6205 0127 or email committees@parliament.act.gov.au In this issue: President’s report – Palmerston hall timetable - p 3 Employment in Gungahlin, Post Office space, Recipe date pudding – p 5 Football (Soccer) in Gungahlin – lack of suitable ovals – p 7 LDA - p 9: GRCS – p 10 & 11: Gungahlin Child and Family Centre open - p 12 Gardening - p 14: Parking in Gungahlin residential streets - p 19: Churches - p 20 P1
GAS APPLIANCES Repairs & Services Heating, HWS and Cooking Appliances John Thorpe Heating Services 0418 625 642 6262 2122 Lic. Plumber & Gas Fitter No 945 30 yrs exp – 24 hr service
GCC Public Meeting GUNGAHLIN LAKES GOLF AND COMMUNITY CLUB (Board Room) All welcome! Next meeting: Wed 14 June 2006 7.30pm GCC will host a presentation on the ACT Planning and Land Authority System Reform Project.
12 July 2006 7.30pm Speaker ACT Library Service 9 August – Ms Jenny Daly From Gungahlin Regional Community Service will present a summary of the Community Needs Analysis
Gunsmoke 96 Deadline
The next issue of Gunsmoke is due out in August 2006. Advertisements and articles need to be in by 15 July 2006. Email: - romahos@bigpond.net.au
BARRY VINEY ELECTRICAL SERVICE ? ? ? ? ? ?
Telephone outlets Additional TV outlets Powerpoints Tastics Low voltage halogen lights Sensor & security lights
Ph 6242 9355 Mob 0412 620 225 Credit cards accepted ENSURE YOU GET YOUR ELECTRICAL WORK COMPLETED BY A LICENCED AND INSURED ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Electrical contractors lic ACT C1310 Telephone Licence AO 11215
GUNGAHLIN DENTAL SURGERY Dr Vincent Trai Tran
Please note that 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 which are not necessarily the opinion of the editor, or members of the Gungahlin Community Council Inc.
Repairs to all mechanical and quartz watches and clocks.
B.D.Sc (Uni Qld) Member of MBF & HCF
Over 40 years experience and all work guaranteed.
37 Anthony Rolfe Ave Gungahlin (next to Police Station) Hours Mon – Fri 8.30am – 6.00pm Sat 9.00am – Noon
PH (02) 6242 7288 To make an appointment
PALMERSTON MEDICAL CENTRE Palmerston Shops, Tiptree Cres Ph 6242 9464 Dr Prad Southi
DISCLAIMER
WATCH AND CLOCK REPAIRS
MBBS (Syd)
Dr Sandy Viketos MBBS (Syd)
Dr Michael Gan MB, BS (UNSW) DCH (NZ) D Obst (Otago) FRAC GP
Surgery Hours Mon – Fri 8.30am – 6.00pm Saturday 8.30am – 11.30am
Malcolm Scott 32 Grampians Street Palmerston ACT 2913 Phone 02 6242 9636 Email. Malmar32@tpg.com.au Milko Fact No. 10: The FRESHEST milk in Canberra is only Milko home delivered.
Every shop that sells milk from the smallest convenience store to the biggest supermarket has to store the fresh milk out the back until they’ve sold their older milk first. This sometimes takes days. Your local milko picks it up from the factory and delivers it straight to your door. And yesterday? It was probably still in the cow! Get the best milk home delivered (with no delivery fees) at almost the same prices as the supermarket generics. Call Garry on 0421 704 844 or leave your daytime number with a message on 6258 4994.
SIBU HAIR Nicholls shops OPENING HOURS: Tues - 9.00 am to 6.00 pm Wed - 9.00 am to 8.30 pm Thurs – 9.00 am to 8.30 pm Fri - 9.00 am to 8.30 pm Sat - 8.00 am to 5.00 pm
Ph 62411511 P2
From the President - Peter Coggan General Public Meetings are held 7.30pm on the 2nd Wednesday at the Gungahlin Lakes Golf Club. The executive committee meets the first Wednesday of the month. Mark these dates on your calendar and come along and support your community. Mr Tony Gill, Director Roads ACT, was guest speaker at the April monthly meeting. He provided an update on Gungahlin Drive Extension and addressed the options for proposed new road access to Burgmann Anglican School off Valley Avenue. Although it is only 9 kilometres in length the GDE is the most expensive major road works in the ACT since self-government. Costs have blown out because of the extensive delays. The good news is that bridge infrastructure for 4 lanes will be completed but only 2 lanes, one each way, will be built. An extra $15 million is all that is needed to finish the 4 lane system now! Imagine what it will cost in 5 or 10 years! Stage 1, Barton Highway to Kaleen, will be open by Christmas. See details GDE website www.gde.act.gov.au. There is no easy fix for the traffic problems at Burgmann School but Roads ACT will meet with the GCC again in September following the Council’s call to consider the wider precinct that will include the Gungahlin Secondary College, an enclosed oval and the Aquatic Sports Centre. Primary concerns are the impact the new traffic arrangements will have on the amenity of local residents and the safety of the school’s 950 students.
Lend Lease Delphin, shared developers of the new suburb of Forde, held an informative community consultation session at Amaroo School in April. Land sales will be opened early next year. You will have noticed the new LDA land sales office for Harrison has opened on the corner of Nullarbor Avenue and Flemington Road. A new 23 house display home village is under construction on the corner across Nullarbor Avenue from the land sales office. The new office is worth a visit to see the 3D model of the completed Marketplace on display in the show room. Mr Peter Wallace, CEO of ACTION, was guest speaker at our May General Meeting. Details of Gungahlin bus services can be obtained from www.action.act.gov.au or phone 131710. Watch for the new privately run bus shelters that will be rolled out along main roads over the next 12 months or so. Planning Minister, Simon Corbell, has been invited to attend a Gungahlin Planning summit/forum: details to be arranged for either September 13th or October 11th . Meanwhile as part of our program to keep the community informed on planning issues ACTPLA Planning Reform Team has been rescheduled to present on “Changes to building regulations, codes and rules including fences, houses and high rise developments” at our next public meeting which will be held at 7.30pm on Wednesday 14th June at the Gungahlin Golf Club in the Board Room. Come along and be informed and involved in the planning process. Are you happy with the outcomes you see as you drive around our fast growing Gungahlin neighbourhood?
NEW PALMERSTON COMMUNITY CENTRE, Tiptree Cr Palmerston, next to Palmerston shops.
Gungahlin Community Council Inc is pleased to announce that the Palmerston Community Centre will be handed over for use on 6 June. If you wish to hire the hall please consult the draft schedule below. Enquiries may be made to Sally Ruecroft on 0409 691 153. The meeting room is available every day except Sunday morning. An official opening will be advised in due course. Roma Hosking, Chair of hall committee. PALMERSTON HALL BOOKING SCHEDULE - MAIN HALL WITH SPRUNG FLOOR Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday Cornerstone
10am - noon
YWCA FDC
10am - noon
Play group
9.30am - noon
play group
Jo Bibkin
Mary Galliano
8.30am - 1.00pm Festival Ballet School - Cheryl 10.00 am -
Festival Ballet Festival Ballet Cheryl Karate Dale Richards 6.30 - 8pm
4.30pm - 8.30pm
4.30 – 8.30pm Karate GKR 7.30-9.00pm
Yoga 7 8.30pm P3
4pm
CANBERRA PODIATRY & ORTHOTIC CENTRE. Ph: 6253 8073 We can help you with foot, ankle or leg pain; shin splints, backache or headaches.
MICHELLE PROPHET-PEARSON PODIATRIST YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR ORTHOTIC THERAPY. 73 Lexcen Ave Nicholls ACT 2913 Member of the Australian Podiatry Association (NSW)
Brides & Babes
Weddings & Christenings
Proudly supporting the Gungahlin community. Gungahlin Lakes Golf and Community Club pay for distribution of Gunsmoke
Exclusive Christening Wear Wedding &Christening Candles Orthodox Wedding Crowns Personalised Bombonieres Tiara’s, Jewellery, Gifts & lots More Open Tues to Saturday 10.00am to 3.00pm Or call Stella for an appointment after hours Gold Creek Square, Nicholls ACT 2913 (Opposite Cockington Green) Ph: 6230 2566 fax: 6230 2577 Mobile: 0408 200 481
P4
EMPLOYMENT IN GUNGAHLIN
Mechanical Servicing & Repairs Courtesy car lift to work or home Personal & Convenient When you have your car serviced here your warranty will not be affected Safe quality servicing and repairs Think Bars ‘cause Bars Fix Cars
6241 4888 76 Grimwade St, MITCHELL
INADEQUATE POST OFFICE SPACE IN GUNGAHLIN TOWN CENTRE Have you been in a queue reaching out into the street at the Gungahlin Post Office? If not, you would be an unusual person. Maybe you drive to Mitchell instead – but you can’t if you have to collect a parcel in Gungahlin. For some years now it has been obvious that larger premises are needed to cater for the increased volume of business at the centre. The staff are helpful but when asked why they haven’t moved they say that their lease won’t allow them to do so. It is time that something was done about this . A lease is legally binding but when circums tances change surely a satisfactory arrangement can be made that doesn’t involve unreasonable amounts of money to sensibly cater for the growing demand for service. After all, the lessee is gaining from the increase in population expansion. Do they care so little for the community that they can’t act in the best interests of all? Several letters to the editor have been received on this theme. P 14 Roma Hosking, editor.
It was welcome news reported in The Canberra Times on Saturday 20 May 06 that the possibility of the Department of Immigration and Multicultural affairs may establish a technology office in Gungahlin Town Centre. The Gungahlin Community Council Inc. has been lobbying for many years for a Government Department to be established in the Town Centre precinct in order to help sustain business and to balance the traffic flow between Gungahlin and other business centres in Canberra. Budget funding of $119 million over four years included provision for information technology and recordingkeeping capabilities to be improved. Immigration Minister is reported as saying, “We’re going to make our systems more efficient, more accurate and better networked, to ensure our staff have the tools to do their job under the Systems for People Program.” Staff will be consulted before any definite decisions are made as to who, or how many staff will be moved to Gungahlin but the number of people could be in the vicinity of 400.
From Fatty and Chook, “Laughing at League” SEA EAGLES TAKE OFF In 1986 talk of expansion in the game was much in the air. Brisbane radio ace John McCoy touched on the subject in an address to a grand final breakfast gathering. With a straight face John told the gathering that Balmain would be ultimately shifted to Townsville and called the Townsville Tigers, that Wests would go to Victoria and be called the Melbourne Magpies……and so on. “What’s more, said John, “the really big news is that the ARL plans to spread it wings and shift Manly to the Philippines….where they’ll be known as the Manila Folders
COST OF ADS PER ISSUE IN GUNSMOKE Editor: Roma Hosking:romahos@bigpond.net.au
A4 page $400 ½ A4 page - $200 ¼ A4 page - $100 8 cm X 8 cm - $77.50 8cm X 6 cm - $65.50 6 cm X 4 cm - $35.50 10% discount for community non profit organizations. 10% discount for same ad in 6 issues paid in advance Please note that editing is only available in some files so please ensure accuracy of work prior to submission.
ROMA’S EASY DATE PUDDING Ingredients: One heaped cup of chopped dates over which one level teaspoon of bi- carb soda has been sprinkled. Optional: ½ cup of chopped walnuts One cup of boiling water One level cup of soft brown sugar Two rounded tablespoons of butter or margarine 2 level cups of S.R. flour to which is added one teaspoon spice or cinnamon. Method: Place chopped dates, walnuts, butter & bi-cab soda in metal steaming bowl. Pour over boiling water and stir until butter is dissolved. Add sifted dry ingredients and a little milk if the mixture is too stiff. Steam for at least one hour. Serve with hot custard or brandy sauce. Yummy Wonderful for winter feasts ! P5
Recreational Evening Classes Check out our range of great courses in Arts & Crafts Computing & Technology Languages & Expression
Business & Finance Health & Wellbeing Recreation & Relaxation
Details and enrolment information available in The Chronicle on 11th July and also on the web at:
www.lakenitelearning.com.au The program for Term 3 2006 starts Monday 31s t July Enrol by fax, mail, email, online any time, or in person at the College on Tues 25th, Wed 26th & Thurs 27th July between 5pm and 7pm. Tel: 6205 7101 Fax: 6205 7105 Email: classes@lakenitelearning.com.au Location: Emu Bank Belconnen Co-ordinator: Dan Fearns
Gungahlin Marketplace Dental Centre (Woolworths
Building -Entry next Commonwealth bank ATMs)
Dr Van Trinh (Lady
Dentist, Adelaide Uni)
PH:
6242 5666
Open 6 Days
Cosmetic, Preventive
? ? Restorative ? All General Dentistry
Gentle, On time Appointments Strict Sterilisation Procedures High Dental Service Standards P8
P8
Land Development Agency News
New opportunities in Gungahlin Wells Station The LDA has been particularly pleased with the progress of the Wells Station estate over the last 12 months. The high level of public interest in allotments of the Wells Station estate has demonstrated a clear desire of residents to live in this community. Since the first land release, sales in the estate have performed extremely well with people taking the opportunity to build their own homes in an environment that features open spaces, parks and character. The estate was designed to meet market demand for a diversity of block options catering for a range of housing choices. The planned 647 dwellings allowed genuine housing choice, traditional and modern precincts catering for a variety of lifestyles. New Development With the success of Wells Station and the growing market demand, the LDA is commencing construction on a new stage of the suburb of Harrison, located on the corner of Nullarbor Avenue and Flemington Road. The new precinct offers prime land with a diversity of housing choice amongst gentle undulating terrain, directly adjacent to the Wells Station Heritage Precinct and Flemington Road. This new stage of Harrison will also feature Canberra’s largest display village, on the corner of Flemington Road and Nullarbor Avenue. The first release of land in the new stage of Harrison is currently being planned. The LDA is ensuring an orderly release of quality residential land, delivering outstanding financial and social benefits for the community. New Sales Office Open To aid people with their purchasing decision a new Land Sales Information Centre was opened this month in Gungahlin. It is the central point of contact for information about the Gungahlin area and the LDA’s friendly staff are on hand seven days a week to provide information on the Gungahlin estates and the latest land releases. The centre will be the venue for our sales activities, our popular Building Advice Series and community information nights. It is our aim to provide as much helpful advice and information as possible and the new Land Sales Information Centre achieves just that. Homemaker Centre on the way Creating a successful mix of retail and commercial development in Gungahlin’s town centre is essential for its long-term sustainability. A well-positioned site in the town centre offered a prime opportunity to create Gungahlin’s first purpose built Homemaker Centre. It was sold recently to the Vinta Group to progress an innovative development, which complements existing facilities in and around the town centre. Development in Gungahlin’s town centre will continue as the LDA strives to create new opportunities for investment and development of this growing region.
Land Development Agency 21 Wentworth Ave Kingston ACT 2604 Land Sales Information Centre, Nullarbor Ave, Harrison. Tel: 1800 777 952 Tel: 02 6205 0600 Fax: 02 6207 5101 www.lda.act.gov.au lda@act.gov.au
Football (Soccer) in Gungahlin – the Pleasure and Pain Gungahlin United Football Club The pleasure side of Football in Gungahlin sees several significant milestones achieved by the Gungahlin United Football Club (GUFC), formerly the Gungahlin Junior Soccer Club, in season 2006. ? ? ? ? ?
We We We We We
have changed the name of the club. are changing our image and introducing a new playing strip. have broken the 800 Junior player mark with 813 registered Junior players forming 83 teams. have introduced the clubs first Senior teams in both Mens and Womens competitions. have our first U18’s team in our Junior competitions.
This growth represents on average an increase of around 100 players per year over the last four years and we anticipate this to continue for the forceseeable future. This is a great achievement for a club that only started in 1997 and to have the games organized each week for this many teams is testimony to the dedication and hard work of the committee and volunteers we have. This growth not only represents the growing popularity of the sport but obviously the growth in population in the Gungahlin area. We believe the introduction of our new playing strip, as well as the name change, will provide the club with our own specific identity whilst representing the Gungahlin Community within our sporting code. The club had its most successful year in 2005 with 5 junior teams ending up finishing the season either premiers or runners up in their respective competitions. With our Seniors teams now in place our Juniors have a pathway that should allow them to continue in this sport in Gungahlin. I look forward to another successful season in 2006. The pain of all this growth and success is the lack of provision of equipment and facilities which enables us to conduct the training and games that are required each week. Despite our participation in several workshops and provision of regular feedback and consultation with our local Government authorities, we still struggle to have sufficient fields in a satisfactory condition with adequate storage facilities for some of our equipment to meet the growth of the club. After much discussion last year Urban Services agreed to bring back online two fields at the Gold Creek/Holy Spirit Primary School that had been taken offline at the beginning of the drought, this was a positive step. Unfortunately the condition of one of the fields is only barely acceptable as playable and safe and the other is well below standard. The condition of the other fields at Nicholls and Palmerston continues to deteriorate. The club was advised that the sports fields at Harrison would be available to us in season 2007 but the funding wasn’t forthcoming. Unfortunately the construction of these fields continues to struggle for funding and it appears likely to be delayed again. With the continued growth that is anticipated by all sporting clubs and the sharing of current facilities by several sports clubs and Schools better planning and management needs to be delivered by Urban Services or our fields will soon be too few and unable to stand up to the use. To add to this problem on any given week we have some 65 Junior teams and 8 senior teams that are training on 5 fields. Add into this the fact that Rugby Union, Rugby League and Australian Rules also need and sometimes share these fields it becomes extremely crowded on some nights. On the weekends parking becomes an issue with vehicles lining the roads and forced to park on verges. I am sure we are not the only sporting club or community group in the Gungahlin area suffering with this sort of problem, some sports still haven’t even been catered for, so perhaps it is time the clubs got together as a collective voice and under the coordination of the Gungahlin Community Council lobbied as one voice to have some of these issues addressed in a more appropriate time frame. The alternative may end up being sporting groups will have to restrict the numbers of players they can cater for and turn kids away from playing sport, which would be disastrous. I invite all sporting clubs and interested community groups to contact the Gungahlin Community Council and register their interest in becoming one voice. Chris Granger President GUFC – Ph 6242 0657 P8
Have your next party at Pink Kisses Parties include birthday cake, pink party punch , pick n’ mix themed make over and much much more. Make your own shower gel or lip balm
Let us create the perfect party for you, as the birthday girl you get to choose one of our looks We also have a large range of gift id Pink Kisses Gillot St Belconnen ACT Phone: 62518132 Fax: 62518132 E-mail: pinkkisses@bigpond.com.au
Troubleshooting / Sales & Upgrades / Networking Maintenance / Training Advice. You will receive .
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There was plenty of action on Palmerston oval on Saturday 20 May as the “Pee Wees” - Gungahlin United Football Club under 6s do their stuff! Eight teams were playing involving about 100 children in all. Congratulations to all coaches and parents involved.
Gungahlin Regional Community Service Gungahlin Community Resource Centre Gungahlin Youth Centre Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Centre Ph: 6228 9200, E-mail: grcs@gungahlin.org
Gungahlin Carers Support Group
The Gungahlin Carers Support group is open to all carers, including people who give occasional care or support to a carer. The aim is for carers of all ages in all types of caring roles to have fun, go on social outings and on occasion try new activities. The emphasis is being with people with shared experiences and feeling uplifted. When: Every second Tuesday of the month from 1pm -3.30pm. Craft and activities will be conducted regularly and materials will be supplied. Where: The Canberra Raiders Club (Gungahlin) 23 Hibberson St Gungahlin. Contact: Branka on 6123 4422.
Gungahlin Community Network is a group of Gungahlin residents who meet weekly to undertake community projects. The group also offers social support and friendship. The Network welcomes new residents.
Come and Try Beading
The Network is hosting a beading session on Wednesday June 28, 10am –12midday. All residents are welcome however bookings are essential. Ring 6123 4422 or
6228 9200 for details .
Walk and Talk A walking group for everyone! All ages and capabilities welcome.
9.30-11.00am Thursdays
Coffee BREAK
A women’s discussion, craft and coffee group. The group meets on Thursdays 10am12 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 Bev on 6242 6077.
The walk starts from Ngunnawal Neighbourhood Centre. (Yarrawonga St) Get fit and make new friends Ring 6123 4422 for more information.
English Conversation Classes
Meet new friends and learn to speak English in a friendly environment The group meets every Friday 1pm- 2.30pm at the Gungahlin Community Resource Centre. Phone 6123 4422 or 6123 4403 for more information.
“Community Within Gungahlin”
NEW
Are you interested in Volunteering?
Gungahlin Men’s Group
Drop in, Relax and Chat over a cuppa Where? Gungahlin Community Resource Centre When? Tuesday nights 6.30pm-8.30pm Starting Tuesday May 2 2006 To find out more contact Glenn on 6242 7495 or Alison on 6123 4422 or Email grcscd@gungahlin.org
Do you have time on your hands? Want to do something worthwhile? We are looking for volunteers on an ongoing basis for a variety of different activities such as helping with groups, driving and helping people with their shopping. Volunteering can be fun, rewarding and a great source of personal development. Would you like to share your knowledge and skills and teach English language skills to a small group of women from different cultural backgrounds. If this appeals to you and you have some time on Monday mornings please contact the volunteer coordinator. For more information contact Alison on 6123 4422.
LOOKING FOR WORK?
Gungahlin Community Market New Horizons is a free career skills program which assists women to re-enter the workforce, commence studies or become a volunteer. The program includes personalized guidance, group instructional sessions, workshops and ongoing support. Participants attend a short course which builds self-esteem and helps women to set goals and compile a resume. Following the course a series of workshops are conducted on a range of topics including basic computing, addressing selection criteria and interview techniques. Childcare: is provided for children under the age of 6, free of charge on site. Venue: the courses and workshops are held at the Gungahlin Community Resource Centre, NEXT COURSE STARTS AUGUST 1 2006
Gungahlin Regional Community Service is holding a market at the Gungahlin Community Resource Centre (Ernest Cavanagh St Gungahlin). There will be a sausage sizzle and plenty of treasures on sale at bargain prices.
Saturday June 3 2006 10am-2pm
If you would like a table to sell arts/crafts, plants or pre-loved goods please ring 6123 4422.
For more information please call
6123 4422 or 6228 9200 This program is proudly funded by the ACT Government as part of the Community Inclusion Fund.
“Community Within Gungahlin”
Kumon Gungahlin advanced students
celebrates
their
Hundreds of Canberra’s children were recognised for their world-class learning achievements at the Kumon Dream Awards ceremony on Sunday 7th May. More than 850 Kumon students and their families filled the National Convention Centre to celebrate their successes. The Kumon Dream Awards are a unique celebration of achievements which represents a global standard of education. The awards are for students who are studying at least six months ahead of their school grade level. These academic achievements are recognised in all of the 43 countries in which Kumon operates. Once a year KUMON instructors organise the Dream Awards to celebrate their students’ achievements and to remind everyone of the benefits of pursuing goals based on a strong Kumon Gungahlin Supervisor Susan Davis & English completer Kelsey.
education. Susan Davis and her assistants from the Kumon Gungahlin centre were there to congratulate 110 of their advanced students. There were also two students there to celebrate graduating the Kumon English Programme. Kelsey, a recent graduate from the Kumon English Programme, is 16 years old. “Kumon has had a lasting effect on my school work. Kumon has also given me great life skills, the skill of understanding, persistence, the skill of setting a goal and seeing it through,” says Kelsey. Kumon’s foremost mission is “To discover and develop the potential of each student “. The ability for children to set their own tasks, learn and think by themselves, make independent judgements, and act on their own to find better solutions are examples of the skills developed by the Kumon Programmes . Ultimately, better learning skills facilitate a smoother acquisition of knowledge. The Kumon Maths and English Programmes are designed for all ages and all levels . For more information about Kumon Gungahlin centre call 6242 0177 or visit www.kumon.com.au.
Gungahlin Child and Family Centre
Pictures: Above left – the New Centre opened on 24 May by Ms Katy Gallagher MLA, Minister for Disability and Community Services. Above: Bronwyn Evans, Child Health Medical Officer. Left; Adrina Buttenshaw with baby Nardia in pram and Cal Guild Community Partnerships Co-ordinator. Gungahlin families are invited to come and visit the new premises of the Gungahlin Child and Family Centre. The Centre is on the corner of Ernest Cavanagh Street and Gungahlin Place, opposite the Library. Telephone 6207 0120. P 12
BRING ON THE RAIN As I sit down to write this, the weather is glorious and yet as gardeners we are constantly affected by conditions beyond our control, we desperately need rain. Rain dancing has become a little ceremony in our house, with the children being paid for every millimetre that falls, by their grandparents. A bit wacky, but hey, we’ll try anything. The small falls of rain are encouraging, here’s hoping for more. I know I have touched on this subject before, but I think it is essential to reinforce the important issues. MULCH MULCH MULCH Global warming is becoming blatantly obvious and as part of that our use of water needs to change. One very simple way of doing this is by mulching your garden. Ordinarily, now would be a good time, when moisture is way into the sub soil levels, but with the lack of rain I would suggest you hold off. Mulching now would reduce the amount of water soaking into the soil when it does rain. There are many types of mulch to choose from, and really any type of soil coverage that allows moisture and air penetration serves a good purpose. Don’t be fooled by the plastic weed matting, although this lets some air and a little moisture in, over time the soil dies, with no organic matter and worms to aerate and feed the soil your plants will eventually die too. Of all the mulches to choose from there are some that provide more benefits than others in regard to soil nutrition. Any leguminous mulch such as lucerne hay (a legume with nitrogen fixing properties) is the best, but can be very expensive if you don’t grow it yourself. (You may also have to deal with he who thinks he must be obeyed, particularly as it is needed for stock at the moment.) Any of the pine/euc chip or forest litter mulches are good, but slower to break down , therefore, slower to improve the soil structure. Even lawn clippings are better than nothing that is if you can tolerate the smell of decomposing grass. I have seen red granite and river pebbles used effectively as mulch; these will retain moisture and prevent weeds with no nutritional benefits. (Some folk around here, who shall remain nameless, have been known to use worn out natural fibre (wool, cotton) clothing and carpet underlay as P13
mulch. This is not aesthetically pleasing, but it did get results. This person has now graduated to lucerne silage with results beyond her dreams and not a Patersons curse in sight.) Mulches increase organic matter in soils, which in turn increase the water-holding capacity (CEC), and percolation of water through the soil. This then leads to better nutrient absorption preventing nutrient rich runoff water running into our storm water systems then into major waterways and causing blue/green algae blooms and other macrobiotic problems. Mulches increase the worm population, reduce weeds and are good for the environment. Mulches benefit all soil types. Healthy soils mean healthy plants, less watering, less fertiliser and fewer diseases. Be water aware and environmentally friendly, by mulching every spring (after good soaking rain) and top up lightly throughout the year as is needed. JOBS FOR JUNE/JULY 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.
16.
Cut down chrysanthemums. Divide, replant herbaceous perennials, apply compost to beds. Begin pruning roses. Prune grapevines and ornamental trees and shrubs. Move cymbidium orchids into light position as flower spikes develop. Replant healthy layered pieces of herbs that have died off in the centre. Plant perennials, roses and bare-rooted (deciduous) trees and shrubs. Plant strawberries. This is a great time to re-assess the garden to consider which plants need to be moved, altered or improved. Prune wisteria for better flowering. Prune topiary plants to maintain shape and style. Prune hydrangeas. Potted cyclamen should be placed outdoors overnight. Thin climbing roses as needed. Take stock of your garden equipmentclean oil and sharpen garden tools and rub handles with linseed oil, service the lawnmower. Cut back spent Banksia, epacris blooms.
PALMERSTON Palmerston Shopping Centre Phone: 6241 9710 Ø Free script delivery Ø Free blood pressure check Ø Webster Pak Ø Hire: Crutches, breast pumps, wheelchairs,. Ø Dry cleaning (Bells) Ø Blackmores vitamins Ø Huge range of health and beauty products Ø Ear Piercing, Bus tickets, stamps, etc Professional and friendly service & advice Open 9am – 7pm Monday – Friday 9am – 1pm Saturdays
We look after your pets when you are not available. We come to your home so that your animals are comfortable in their own surroundings. Feeding, watering, oral medication Cuddles and playtime. Walking, yard and kitty litter clean up. Mail, bins and that lived -in look Personalised packages available on request Enquiries and bookings please call 62428269 Email : furfaces@optusnet.com.au ABN : 32 976 904 127
Looking for information in the Gungahlin Region? There’s a new web site especially for you! The Gungahlin Region On-line!
www.gungahlin.net ph/fax: 02 6242 4172
Log on now for: * Community Contacts * Local News * Local Sport * Local Weather * Free Classifieds * Kids Club * Local Developments
* Community Information * Upcoming Events * Local Shopping Guide * Local Schools * Suburb Guide & Statistics * Local Business Directory * and much more …
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ANY Minor Ser vice... ANY Vehicle... ANY time during June or July
50% OFF*
*discount applies to labour charges only voucher must be presented at time of ser vice
4WD’s / CARS ALL MAKES & MODELS TRUCKS & BUSES / FLEET CARD ACT Automotive & Offroad Centre can carry out: • New vehicle ser vices while under new car warranty • Pre-trip inspections • Modifications to equip your vehicle for your big trip • Minor to major ser vices • 4WD wheel alignments • 4WD wheel balances
• Pre-purchase inspections • Engine overhauls • The supply & fitting of Turbo systems • The supply & fitting of suspension systems • Diesel injector ser vicing • Gearbox & Diff overhauls
We are authorised stockists for: ARB • Light Force Lights • Blackwidow storage systems • OME Suspension Eva Kool iceboxes • Kookaburra camping equipment
We also stock & fit: GME UHF radios & antennas • Black Rat recovery equipment • Tyre repair kits Electronic Shu-Roos • Bushranger products • Rancho suspension
Tel 6241 8011 Fax 6241 2282 • 5 Huddart Court Mitchell ACT 2911 info@actoffroad.com.au • www.actoffroad.com.au
CRAFT CLASSES Beginners and advanced workshops in:
é é é é é
Are you thinking of purchasing a property in the near future? Would you like some professional advice on which home loans are currently available in the market place? We can research on your behalf from our panel of over 30 different lenders – including all the major banks.
Scrapbooking Rubber stamping Hand made cards and gifts Christmas crafts And much, much more
Workshops run for 2 – 2.5 hours, cost is only $20 - $30 with all materials and notes included.
Our service is free of charge and we have a
$500 money-back Customer satisfaction guarantee
For a timetable or more information Call Monika on 6242 5832 or 0400 818 136
For an obligation free confidential assessment please contact us on the details below Ph 6255 0777 53 Anthony Rolfe Ave Gungahlin ACT 2912
GUNGAHLIN VETERINARY HOSPITAL
Email: enquiries@simplyapproved.com.au
Opening Hours
Monday– Friday: 8.00 am—7.00 pm Saturday: 8.30am—4.00pm Please ring for an appointment.
Come to our Open Day on Sunday 2 April 2006! 2-5 pm Hospital tours, cat enclosure displays*, petting farm, behavioural advice, pet care displays, dog café, clown, and much much more... *Residents of the new Gungahlin suburbs of Forde and Bonner will be required by law to keep their cats confined to their properties.
21 Crinigan Circle, GUNGAHLIN (adjacent Caltex / Woolworths Petrol)
6242 7276
vets@gungahlinvet.com.au
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Exercises for Seniors Our busy lives today leave us with little time to look after ourselves. Here at ENHANCE we cater for this and offer Massage and Chiropractic days60? a week with late Are you aged7over Are you and early appointments available. interested in an appropriate physical activity program to improve your
Call to book your Chiropractic or Massage strength and balance? appointment today.
There is an opportunity for the YMCA Chiropractors of Canberra to introduce weekly onePeter Garbutt Ben Muir hour classes in Palmerston as from July Nick Skalidas during an early afternoon time slot. Massage Therapists Cost approximately Celina Miller Candice Field$6.50/person/session. Please register your interest for such a program with Helen or Myriame on 61620991 or on 62306224 or on helen.palethorpe@ymca.org.au WORRY SECTION - Children playing in the street: Some residents have phoned me concerned about children playing in the street. The risk is that they may not be seen clearly by cars turning a corner resulting in an accident. Neighbours feel they can speak with the children and their parents but not much has changed – so take care!
SINA
COUNTRY WOMEN'S ASSOCIATION OF NEW SOUTH WALES
Gel Nails
A Lady Deserves Beautiful Hands
The Canberra Branch of the Country Women's Association of New South Wales is looking at the possibility of forming a branch in the Gungahlin area.
Price List Full Set $60.00 Infills $40.00
The Association offers friendship for women, it provides a forum for all women in NSW and the ACT, it also endeavours to improve conditions and welfare of all women and their familes and to provide a voice to Government at all levels.
Anthony Rolfe Ave GUNGAHLIN
0438 629 197
There are many other interests among the members Crafts, International studies, the Environment, Cultural matters just to name a few.
evenings and weekend appointments qualified nail technicia n all work guaranteed
For anyone interested in establishing a branch please contact Mrs Muir Howes on 6259 7230. P17
DRINK TO SUCCEED With the ski season upon us, it is an opportune moment to revisit hydration. Whilst you may not be beneath the scorching sun as you scorch down the slopes, your exertion levels will still see you losing water through your breathing and perspiration. The detrimental effects of dehydration are often over looked in sport, and skiing and snow boarding are no different. People commonly fool themselves into thinking that they either have had enough to drink, or that they don’t need to drink. EVERY level of dehydration affects your performance. This can be by way of concentration, endurance, co-ordination or muscle strength. This starts at 1% dehydration, not 10 or 20%. The trick to drinking fluids throughout the day is to be well hydrated when you start, and just be topping up. If you try to dehydrate, and then play catch up, it will not work. You should start drinking appropriate fluids from the moment you get out of bed in the morning. 1 cup of water (250ml) every half-hour is sufficient throughout the day. This should continue right up to the start of your activity. At lunchtime, a minimum of 400ml should be taken. Any opportunity throughout the day should be utilized to maintain hydration. Hydration can be maintained by water if your eating sufficiently as well, however if you are sweating a lot or not having a good diet, sports drinks are a better choice to maintain healthy hydration. Once you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated. Thirst is a poor indicator.
Our busy lives today leave us with little time to look after ourselves. Here at ENHANCE we cater for this and offer Massage and Chiropractic 7 days a week with late and early appointments available. Call to book your Chiropractic or Massage
appointment today. Chiropractors Peter Garbutt Ben Muir Nick Skalidas Massage Therapists Celina Miller Candice Field Tanya Budynek Tracey Lawson Diana Misiak Helen Miller
Ph. 6241 6060 Platypus Centre Ngunnawal .
Drink well and ski better! By Peter Garbutt Extract from “How is your Family? By Jerry M Lewis MD. Empathy Families differ in the extent to which the open expression of feeling is encouraged. Some families encourage the expression of all feelings, others of only some feelings, and a few families prohibit the direct expression of most feelings. In response to expressions of feelings, some families show a remarkable capacity for empathy. “I know what it is like to be sad, happy, angry, hurt or whatever,” involves both the ability to perceive sensitively what another is feeling and the capacity to let the other know that he or she is understood. It is a “being with” another person that implies no judgment about what the person is feeling. It is doubtful that individuals are born with empathy. Fortunate infants with sensitive, responsive mothers may experience empathy very early. For example, it is striking that some mothers learn quickly the difference between the infant’s “I’m crying because I’m hungry, and “I’m crying because I’m wet.” Being cared for by such a Mother may be the start of learning about empathy. As children are growing up, they are greatly influenced by the level of empathy of their family. When their families are understanding and expressive, the children gradually come to expect empathy and to feel empathic. This obvious lesson is of major value in diminishing the sense of vulnerability that is often involved in intimate communication. Such individuals do not learn to fear that sharing deeply held feelings and thoughts may lead to ridicule or rejection.
Introducing Anthony Flaherty your local Financial Planner Authorised Representative* Amaroo
For all your Financial Advice needs including: Investing, Superannuation, Estate planning, Personal & Business Risk Management.
Call Anthony on 0400825578 or 6282 5576 *Financial Wisdom Limited AFSL No. 231138
Parking in the Gungahlin Residential Streets. When is something going to be done to change the law relating to parking on the nature strips of the residential streets in the Gungahlin area? The residential roads in this area are so narrow that commonsense tells you not to park anything on the road because you will block the flow of traffic and probably be up for considerable panel beating charges when your car/ trailer/ boat or whatever is side-swiped. But I wonder if most residents are aware that it is actually illegal? The streets are not wide enough for a vehicle to be parked one side and have the legally required distance between it and the opposite kerb.
A Parking Operations officer advised that 3 metres distance was required between a parked vehicle and a solid white line in the centre of the road. He was of the opinion that where there were no line mark ings and no “no parking” signs common sense should prevail. This was somewhat more general than advice received by a Police Officer when consulted about parking in a narrow street. An internet search via www.rego.act.gov.au/parking/parkingspecialhtm: www.nrtc.gov,.au: a user name and password were required for this address so unavailable to the inquirer. www.transport.act.gov.au/parkingpolicy/parking did not yield results in relation to this matter. Editor. The Great Bus Lane Mystery:
Apparently the City Rangers are unaware of this because they are advising residents to park their trailers on the street instead of on the nature strip!! If you park your trailer on the nature strip it is an “Abandoned vehicle” and will be removed at your expense. If you have the trailer attached to your vehicle, the rangers will detach it, tow it away (at your expense) and book your car for illegal parking!!
Question 1: Has any one ever seen a bus use the Flemington Road Bus Lane? Question 2: If it is designed to get Gungahlin residents out of this area, why does it start in the middle of Mitchell and only go a few hundred metres?
So we have a situation where you cannot park on the road, you cannot park on the nature strip and you can only park on the driveway between the garage door and the 300mm past your water meter!! Many of the houses in this region have quite steep driveways and elderly people find it impossible to get in or out of cars on steep slopes. The majority of residents in the Gungahlin region will find that if you already have your garage fully occupied then legally you are allowed to have a maximum of two extra vehicles parked on your property. It seems that in the event of some family celebration, or a party, or even open inspection if you are selling your property, you will need to advise your visitors that they will have to park in the Woollies carpark and bus it in!!
Question 3: Why does the Bus Lane only go one way? Are we all supposed to be leaving Gungahlin never to return? Is this why Mr Stanhope has to seek the help of Sydneysiders to populate the ACT? These questions have been submitted by a Ngunnawal resident. Gungahlin Community Council Inc members also wondered about the answers to these questions which is why we invited Mr Peter Wallace, CEO of ACTION to be guest speaker at our last Community Council meeting. Drivers of other vehicles don’t readily let buses back into the traffic flow - a general problem right across Canberra. He did say it was especially difficult near the Exhibition Centre in the morning peak hour. The afternoons don’t seem to have such a bottleneck of traffic. J Walton
The nature strip is designed for pedestrians. Most of the streets in this area are not used by pedestrians because a) there is no footpath and b) the Government planted trees slap bang in the middle of where most self-respecting pedestrians would walk ! If the Government is going to persist in developing suburbs with such narrow streets and tiny blocks of land then something has to be done about changing the rules regarding the use of the nature strip. J. Walton Ngunnawal P 19
ACTION was invited to submit an article but did not reach the dead line for this issue. – Editor
CHURCH PAGE THE SALVATION ARMY Major Ian Hutchinson Ph 6242 6037 Sunday 10.00am Scout Hall The Valley Avenue, Gungahlin GUNGAHLIN CHRISTIAN LIFE CENTRE (an extension church of Canberra Christian Life Centre)
Sunday Worship Service 10.30 am Gungahlin Community Centre Ernest Cavanagh St Ps Steve & Debbie Simpson Ph: 6259 6444
NEW LIFE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 107 Wanganeen Ave, Ngunnawal Sunday Church & Kids Bizz: 10.00am FNL Youth Group: 7.00pm each Friday Weekly Home Groups Rev Mark Adams Ph 6241 3750 Email: m_adams@tpg.com.au CORNERSTONE CHRISTIAN CHURCH Sunday Worship & Children’s Church 10.00am Palmerston Primary School Hall Kosciuszko Ave Palmerston ACT Ph Pastor Rod Holmes 6255 6087 GUNGAHLIN COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH Pastor R. Perkins Ph 6253 8157 Church Service - Sunday 10.30am at Amaroo Primary School. "MOPS” fortnightly Weekly Home Groups ? Email: ranperki9@aol.com
GUNGAHLIN ANGLICAN CHURCH “Sharing faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, in a family friendly atmosphere with Bible centred teaching and contemporary music.” Sundays:9.30am All Ages Service at Grace Chapel (Burgmann Anglican School); 5.00pm Amaroo Fellowship at Amaroo School; 7.00pm Sunday @ 7 at Grace Chapel. (9.30 & 5.00 include Children’s programs) Midweek: Bible studies, Kids' Clubs, Youth Groups, Parents' Group, Prayer Group. Rector: Michael Dasey ph 62420734 Minister: Rev Tim Baxter 6242 0700, admin@gungahlinanglican.org.au www.gungahlinanglican.org.au
HOLY SPIRIT CATHOLIC PARISH Mass Times: Sat 6pm, Sun 5:30pm Sun 9:30am including Children’s Liturgy All services at Holy Spirit School Fr Bernie Patterson. Ph: 6242 9622
hols.gungahlin@cg.catholic.org.au www.holyspiritgungahlin.catholicau.com
GUNGAHLIN UNITING CHURCH All Age Sunday Worship 9.30am at Ngunnawal Primary School Hall, Unaipon Ave, Ngunnawal. For more details see www.gungahlinuniting.org or call 6242 5001
MARRIAGE CELEBRANT Mr Mabe n Douglass. C.M.C. Traditional & Contemporary Weddings 15 Macedon Cr Palmerston Ph 6262 2303 M 0413 296 732 Email:maben@netspeed.com.au
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DOMINO’S PIZZA GUNGAHLIN
$5.95 LARGE PIZZA PICK UP ONLY (Conditions apply)
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