Swan Magazine August 2017

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IN THIS ISSUE PAGE

FEATURES

PAGE

Books and Writing

Books 30 Humour 29 Letter to the Editor 2 The Idler 33 The Ute 9 Winter Events at KSP 3

Business

Business Card Board

Finance with Steve Networking

36 25 24

Creating Good Bushfire Habits Donate a Life Federal Notes The Voice of her Generation Stronger Communities Grants WA Student Wins Silver Out and About With Sharron SAFE SVRN

Yellow Box Intersection Trials Bullsbrook Community

Center Open Pay Your Rates Early Radio Presenter Wanted

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Community

A Win for Tourism SVRN Notes Pets The Compassionate Friends What’s On

27 27 35 33 8

James Forte One Act Season is Upon Us HSO Concert for Dad Theatre with Gordon

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Domaine d’Auriac Douglas’ Wineries & Dineries

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WA Brings Home The Gold The Habits of Horses Open Day House and Garden First Impressions

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Terry Hackett

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Entertainment

Food & Wine Leisure

Obituary

Front Page Photograph: Dhammasara Buddhist Nuns Fire Training Photograph: Courtesy of the City of Swan See editorial on the inside front cover.

26 27 27 DISCLAIMER The information in this publication is of a general nature. The articles contained herein are not intended to provide a complete discussion on each subject and or issues canvassed. Swan Magazine does not accept any liability for any statements or any opinion, or for any errors or omissions contained herein.

Annie’s Vintage Wonderland Your One Stop Vintage Prop & Decor Shop 0430 456 586

Shop 3/121 James St., Guildford www.anniesvinatagewonderland.com

SWAN MAGAZINE WEBSITE:

www.swanmagazine.com.au

Email: editor@swanmagazine.com.au Registered Address: 18 Tokay Lane, The Vines, Western Australia 6069 AUGUST DEADLINES: Advertisements: 25th July Editorial: 1st August Copyright: Swan Magazine 2017 1

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Sir: Whilst some Australians born overseas may never consider themselves to be a citizen of their birth country, knowing that a requirement of the Australian constitution is that you cannot be a dual citizen, would it not make sense to check and obtain written confirmation of your status before standing for the federal parliament?

This was the fault of Senators Ludlam and Walters and, may I say, so many before them who were never challenged.

As far as Senator Canavan is concerned, it is difficult to comprehend a government issuing citizenship status to an adult who never applied on his own behalf and who did not sign any documentation.

Even more difficult to comprehend is a mother who, on receiving advice that her application on behalf of her son was successful, never said anything to him.

The fact is, the matter of members of parliament holding dual nationality is one often raised by individuals but never taken seriously by the politicians, possibly because they have never wanted to test muddy waters.

Where the Australian constitution is concerned section 44 is quite clear: “Any person who- (i.) Is under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience, or adherence to a foreign power, or is a subject or a citizen or entitled to the rights & privileges of a subject or citizen of a foreign power …. shall be incapable of being chosen or of sitting as a senator or a member of the House of Representatives.”

Politicians and commentators are saying that the section is too strict, that Australia is a multicultural nation and that the constitution should be amended to reflect that.

However, the reason why this clause was specifically inserted into the federal constitution whilst not being in any of the state constitutions is that the federal constitution gave specific powers to the federal parliament to handle matters of foreign affairs and defence.

The potential threats in 1901 when the constitution came into being were from Russia and Germany and it simply would not do to have Russian and German citizens sitting in the Australian parliament.

In 2017 the threats to our national security are different, but no less real. Commentators may say that Canada and New Zealand do not pose a threat, which is true, but they do have differing interests to Australia as does the United Kingdom, particularly in areas of trade and defence procurement.

This is why, although the Queen is sovereign of fofteen other countries, our constitution is quite clear that Her Majesty can only accept advice from her Australian ministers.

In this manner the monarchy is a part of our 2

constitution, not the constitution a part of the monarchy.

Accordingly, we do not believe that section 44 (i.) should be amended as it serves a real purpose.

A question that is often asked is what is the situation of legislation passed or defeated with the votes of those senators found to have been unconstitutionally elected? Reason would dictate that the voting of those senators or members should be null and void.

However, when this matter was raised in the High Court in 1907 and later confirmed in 1988, its decision was that the presence in the senate of a senator found not to have been validly elected, or to be disqualified, does not invalidate the proceedings of the Senate in which that senator participated.

As far as salaries and emoluments for these non-senators are concerned, it is probable that the government will not require a refund and will also most likely, given that it is taxpayer monies we are talking about, allow them to retain the generous parliamentary pension and travel entitlements not available to other non-senators, i.e.: the general populace.

Philip Benwell National Chair Australian Monarchist League Dear Editor, I write to voice my concerns on not just what can be read between the lines in various media every day and be heard frequently in our courts, but also as to what can be heard at many functions and executive meetings that we attend, as indeed you would attend yourself also.

While I acknowledge the intention of the recognition of the aboriginal ownership of the lands of Australia, I must voice my objection to the continuing recognition afforded the Aboriginal people of Australia without the recognition of our Pioneering families.

As without the Official Recognition of the Pioneers who developed this same land, that we have all prospered from, these words are deliberately divisive and meaningless .

It should also be remembered and recognized of our early pioneers, that it was their spirit for growth that built this land for what it is today, their historical memory must be promoted.

Our Country did not grow out of nothing, it was made by men and women of hard work and sacrifice.

As a fifth generation Australian, of a pioneering family who came as free settlers to tame a harsh land without the assistance of a Centrelink handshake, we also have the right to be recognised at regular ceremonies and accorded due presence, that without such dedication the division of racism will forever be over-written by a mismanaged authority.

If such a correct and valuable statement is to made surely, something on the lines of: ....

“As a mark of respect for our past and future direction, we acknowledge the spirit of our Pioneers, together with the traditional custodians of the lands of Australia.”

Thank you.

Terrance Weston JP Secret Harbour

COMMUNITY CREATING GOOD BUSHFIRE HABITS GRETA JASIAK

at the Dhammasara Buddhist Community NtheunsinlastGidgegannup have been keeping busy over couple of months making sure their

200 hectare property is ready for the next fire season.

City of Swan Mayor Mick Wainwright said the nuns had been conducting controlled burns with the help of City of Swan volunteer bushfire brigade members and the State Wide Operational Response Division (SWORD) volunteer team.

“The nuns have been instrumental in performing hazard reduction burns to over ten hectares of bushland to manage the fuel loads on their property,” he said.

“The burns form part of an overall property management plan at the monastery, where strategic parcels of land are burnt over a planned cycle.”

“By managing the fire load on their property, the nuns are not only protecting their own small community, but the surrounding community as well.”

City of Swan volunteers have been assisting the nuns over the past decade to manage their fuel load, which included customised training in basic fire fighting.

The training covered fire ground safety, bush fire behaviour and suppression, and learning how to use extinguishers.

Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer John Mangini, who has assisted the nuns with their bushfire risk management for years, said the whole community would benefit by following the great example displayed by the nuns.

“The nuns are setting such an excellent example of appropriately managing their own fire risks, and the wider community should follow their lead.” he said.

“The major factors that influence the impact of fire are weather and fuel load. Of these factors, fuel load is the only one we can really manage in order to reduce bushfire risk.

“Planning your fuel management needs to be done well in advance, and where possible during the cooler months of the year rather than when the fire season is getting close – so act now.”

Website: swan.wa.gov.au.

WRITING WINTER EVENTS AT KSP SHANNON COYLE

Writers’ Centre is holding a family-friendly KThisSPSpooky Stories Night fundraiser this August. fun ghostly event will feature outdoor

campfire pits – perfect for marshmallow toasting!

Plus a pumpkin piñata and other activities, hearty soup, fresh rolls, hot chocolate and the announcement of awards from KSP’s 2017 Ghost Story Competition, followed by readings from the winners.

If you’ve never visited this heritage-listed Greenmount property before, this is a great chance to have a peek. The Centre provides the perfect atmosphere for spooky stories.

The former owners of the house, author Katharine Susannah Prichard and VC hero Hugo Throssell, both died here and it is rumoured that their ghosts still roam the property.

There will be a lock-out period from 8.30pm where the littlies must head home to bed. Those over eighteen years old can then pop a bottle of wine and settle in for a selection of adults-only spooky stories – if you dare.

BYO drinks, warm clothes, torch, bag of

marshmallows and some buddies to keep you safe. Prizes on offer for Spookiest Costumes.

Winter Events at KSP Writers’ Centre Spooky Stories Night, 26 August 2017, from 6pm Tickets: $10 children/concession, $15 adults – advance bookings essential: kspwriterscentre. com/spooky-stories-night AUGUST SUNDAY SESSION KSP Sunday Sessions give you the chance to mingle with and learn from authors who've achieved great things in the industry - and want to share their knowledge with you.

This month, meet fantastically interesting Swan Magazine publisher and food writer Douglas Sutherland-Bruce, who will chat to emcee Tabetha Beggs about his career in the food and journalism industries.

His talk is called Chips with Everything - with knife and fork across darkest Australia. Douglas has been a professional food writer since 1987 and was a Gold Plate Judge for several years.

Over those thirty years the dining scene in

Douglas Sutherland-Bruce (Photo courtesy Verge Studio)

Australia has completely altered - mostly for the better.

BYO drinks and nibbles and take a seat in the Balcony Bar for a great evening of readings and socialising. Complimentary glass of Lion Mill red wine on entry, and others while stocks last.

August Sunday Session, Sunday 27 August 2017, 4.00-5.30 Tickets: $5 KSP/WAWU members, $10 others – book online or pay at the door: kspwriterscentre.com/sunday-sessions.

Advance bookings are essential for all events. For more details or to book, please phone 08 9294 1872 or visit the KSP website on www. kspwriterscentre.com .

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FEDERAL NOTES HON KEN WYATT AM, MP

Member for Hasluck, Minister for Aged Care and Minister for Indigenous Health

DONATE LIFE, GST, THE PM AND MORE

30 till August 6 was DonateLife week and this year brought with it a J ulybunch of exciting new developments and initiatives.

As the Minister responsible for Organ and Tissue Authority I was

excited to announce a new instant organ donor registration process which you can access on your mobile phone, tablet and computer.

All you need to do is search "DonateLife register" or go to register. donatelife.gov.au/decide and fill out the five-line form to register in just seconds. One minute of your time can now save the lives of ten people.

Federal Treasurer, Scott Morrison came to visit Hasluck late in June and we continued our discussions about what can be done to fix the GST situation in WA. GST reform is a top priority and the WA Liberal team will continue its unrelenting push for reform of the entire GST and Commonwealth grants system.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Education Minister Simon Birmingham came with me to visit Swan View Senior High School in late July where it was announced that we will see funding for Indigenous students in WA grow at the fastest rate of any State or Territory from $1,480 per student each year to $2,626.

Over the last month in parliament the Turnbull Government has achieved a number of important accomplishments, I have listed two below for your information:

• We are establishing a Home Affairs portfolio of Australia’s immigration, border protection and security agencies to better prepare Australia against evolving security concerns, including from terrorism, organised crime and cyber threats.

The new portfolio will be similar to the UK Home office – bringing together border and security agencies including Border Force, AFP, ASIO, Office of Transport Security and Emergency Management Australia.

• The Australian Retailers Association has backed the Coalition Government’s Youth Jobs PaTH (Prepare-Trial-Hire) program with a commitment to deliver thousands of internships for young Australians.

The Turnbull Government’s Youth Jobs PaTH is all about giving local young people the skills they need, giving them practical work experience and getting them a job.

Round 3 of the Stronger Communities Programme is now open and eligible organisations can apply for grants of up to $20,000. This programme is a great opportunity for local organisations to receive small capital grants to help them with projects that support our local community.

For more information and the eligibility requirements please visit business.gov.au/…/stronger-communities-programme.

If your group would like to complete an expression of interest form, my office can arrange this for you. Please call 9359 0322 or email ken.wyatt. mp@aph.gov.au. Expressions of interest must be received by August 18.

Thank you to all the Swan View locals who came and met with me at my Swan View Mobile Office!

We had a packed day and I will be coming back in the next month or so to see those who missed out this time around. Holding a mobile office enables me to better understand the concerns of our community and how we can all work together to make Hasluck an even better place to live, work and raise a family.

Please contact my Forrestfield electorate office if you have any queries or if you require more information on anything ADVERTISEMENT I have mentioned. The number is 9359 0322 and my email is ken. wyatt.mp@aph.gov.au.

KEN WYATT MP Federal Member for Hasluck 9359 0322

ken.wyatt.mp@aph.gov.au

kenwyatt.com.au

kenwyattmp

Authorised by K.Wyatt MP, Shop 10-12 Forrestfield Marketplace, 80 Hale Road, Forrestfield WA 6058.

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COMMUNITY THE VOICE OF HER GENERATION n inspirational young Indigenous woman Apoliticians from the City of Swan was among fifty young who made their way to Canberra for

the National Indigenous Youth Parliament (NIYP).

In a busy weekend of politics, Brianne Yarran (18) spoke out about the issues affecting her community, and shared her grandmother’s experience as a child of the Stolen Generation.

The Bennet Springs local rubbed shoulders with the nation’s top political leaders including Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, leader of the opposition Bill Shorten and Governor General Sir Peter Cosgrove.

Brianne said her first trip to Canberra and Old Parliament House, where the Australian 1967 Referendum was approved, was a moving experience.

“It has been really emotional and tough because we have been faced with many historical places Brianne with Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull where things have changed,” she said.

“It takes us back to a time where there were hardships, but as young politicians we can try to The NIYP was held during National Our Languages Matter, was incredibly significant change what happened and move forward for the Reconciliation Week, which commemorated the to her. anniversaries of the 1967 Referendum and the She explained how her grandmother was better of Australia.” placed in a mission and was not allowed to speak historic Mabo decision.

It took place in the former House of her native Noongar language due to laws at the Representatives chamber where participants time. were able to experience the parliamentary “I think it was a time where the Noongar process. They debated various bills and made an language kind of faded away,” she said. adjournment speech in an eventful week-long “A lot of non-Indigenous people have never heard the Noongar language, and when they program.

Brianne’s adjournment speech focussed on hear it for the first time they think it’s the most rants of between $2,500 and $20,000 are the Stolen Generation and called for truthful incredible thing in the world. now available through Round 3 of the Coalition Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander education in “It’s my generation and the future Government’s Stronger Communities Programme. school curriculums. generations that are rebuilding the language and Round 3 of the programme will provide $22.5 Her second debate refuted a bill improving we are re-teaching indigenous people and also million, with funding of $150,000 available to access to alcohol and drug rehabilitation services non-indigenous people.”

Hasluck in 2017-18.

Brianne praised local schools and the City of in rural and remote areas.

Federal Member for Hasluck, Ken Wyatt MP, The debates took place just weeks away Swan for recognising and talking about important is calling for an expression of interest (EOI) from from NAIDOC week, which celebrates the history, Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander events. local community organisations to fund small culture and achievements of Aboriginal and “That’s what the City of Swan is doing. They capital projects. are really encouraging with the events they are Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The Stronger Communities Programme is Brianne said this year’s NAIDOC week theme, doing and are raising awareness of issues that open to eligible not-for-profit organisations and are still occurring,” she said. local councils who can match funding in cash or kind.

ADVERTISEMENT “From solar panels to playgrounds and radio transmitters to fitness equipment, I want to hear from organisations about the ways we can WESTERN AUSTRALIA continue to improve our local community” said Mr Wyatt.

“I will be working closely with a community consultation committee and we are especially keen on projects that improve community involvement and contribute to creating vibrant jp mlc and viable communities” said Mr Wyatt.

Member for East Metropolitan Region If you would like to complete an EOI form, Shadow Minister for Education; Ken Wyatt’s office can send you the paperwork.

Training; Women’s Interests Please call 9359 0322 or email ken.wyatt.mp@ aph.gov.au.

All interested organisations are invited to submit their EOI to ken.wyatt.mp@aph.gov.au by close of business on Tuesday, August 29, 2017.

Ground Floor, 108 Swan Street Guildford 6055 More information on the Stronger Communities 9379 0840 | Faragher.eastmetro@mp.wa.gov.au Programme can be found at: business.gov.au/ assistance/stronger-communities-programme.

Authorised by D.Faragher, 108 Swan Street, Guildford WA 6055.

STRONGER COMMUNITIES GRANTS OPEN

G

Donna

FARAGHER Here to help!

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OUT AND ABOUT WITH SHARRON

SWAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

July Networking event hosted by The Growth Box - a digital and innovation hub by the Malaga and Districts Business T he Swan ChamberAssociation.

The Hub offers co-working, office and training spaces plus a fabulous event space.

Having just opened in July, the space already has some amazing events planned and welcomes you to take a tour of the facility. Chamber Members were

impressed by the lay out of the space and the potential to really make an impact on business and innovation in the area.

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SOCIAL EDITOR SHARRON ATTWOOD Photograph by ShaBo Studio

OUT AND ABOUT WITH SHARRON

D32 NETWORKING

hosted by D32 at Dome Ellenbrook. A fabulous fortnightly breakfast featuring an informative guest speaker T he Ellenbrook Networking and the opportunity to showcase your business amongst other local and visiting business owners.

The group has a wide range of members covering retail, finance, business development, motor mechanics, home repair and health.

Joe Martino from Allen Carr’s Easy Way To Quit Smoking is a member and was the guest presenter on the day, sharing his insights into not only the way he helps his clients but also sharing his business journey.

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WHAT’S ON IF YOU WOULD LIKE AN EVENT LISTED IN THIS COLUMN RING our office on 6296 5161 Entries for non-profit entities are free.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS - Glen Forrest Group Every Monday evening We meet at 7.00pm at the Glen Forrest Uniting Church, Mc Glew Rd, Glen Forrest. Call Dermot 0488 905 211 or John 0448 074 536 or the Perth Office (all hours) 9325 3566.

MORRIS DANCING

All welcome. It’s like bush dancing, with sticks and bells. It’s aerobic exercise and great fun!

Tuesdays 7-9pm practice, Guildford Town Hall, cnr James St and Meadow St, Guildford. And drinks later at the Woodbridge Hotel with live Irish music For more information please contact: AUSTRALIAN BREASTFEEDING ASSOC. Christine Hogan: 9279 8778 Discussion groups, guest speakers, morning Email: madtattersmorris@iinet.Net.Au tea. Free breastfeeding counselling. Expectant Website: madtattersmorris.Myclub.Org.Au mothers, mothers, babies and children welcome.

National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 686 2686 MUSTARD SEED - DISCOVERING COMPUTERS is a 24 hour 7 days a week service.

Mustard Seed is a fifteen year old non-profit organisation and teaches all aspects of everyday Swan/Mundaring Group meets every Monday, 9:30- computing. Ability levels from beginners 11:30am at the Gumnuts Family Centre, 8 Mudalla onwards. Want help with Windows 10? In need of Way, Koongamia. A qualified ABA counsellor instruction with your Mac computer? Have an iPad is present at each meeting to give confidential or Android tablet and don’t know what it will do? information and support on breastfeeding issues. We can help. Cost is $3 per session. Classes are Contact Natalie 9572 4971. heldat 56 McGlew Road, Glen Forrest. To gain a place enrol now.

Kalamunda Group meets fortnighly on a Thursday, Phone 9299 7236 or 0478 604 163 or 9:30-11:30am at the Maida Vale Baptist Church, E: mustardcomputers@gmail.com Edney Road, High Wycombe.

W: noodlebytes.com Contact Jenny 9252 1996.

Northam Group meets each second Tuesday of the month at the Bridgeley Community Centre, Wellington Street, Northam 10am to Noon.

Fourth Tuesday each month at Toodyay Playgroup, Stirling Terrace, Toodyay. Noon to 2pm. Please phone Louisa 9574 0229.

TUESDAY BADMINTON CLUB

Tuesdays Join us for Social Badminton from 9am - 11am at Brown Park Recreation Centre. Beginners Welcome. Contact Miriam 9274 5058.

THE HILLS CHOIR

Monday Evenings Do you enjoy singing and joining with others to make beautiful music? Come and join the Hills Choir. We meet from 7.30 to 9.30pm at the Uniting Church on Stoneville Road, Mundaring. Contact Margie on 9295 6103 for further information.

SWAN VALLEY SQUARES – ELLENBROOK

Every Friday Night Modern Australian Square Dancing from 8.00 pm – 10.00 pm Woodlake Community Hall, 1 Highpoint Blvd, Ellenbrook. Friendly, fun and low cost. No previous experience necessary. All Welcome. Contact Greg Fawell 0417 912 241 or www.swanvalleysquares.weebly.com

ELLENBROOK COMMUNITY WEIGHT LOSS CLUB

Every Wednesday evening We meet from 6.45pm to 8.00pm at the Woodlake Community Hall, Meeting room 1.

Highpoint Blvd, Ellenbrook. Friendly support group and low cost. Male and females of all ages welcome. Contact Shirley 9276 7938 shirleysardelich@aapt.net.au.

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ELLENBROOK AND DISTRICT MENS SHED INC.

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday We are open at 4 Transit Way Ellenbrook from 10.00am to 3.00pm. Potential members can turn up on those days and there will be someone to explain what we do and give membership details.

Annual fees are low and members can do their own thing, participate in projects for the community or simply just come in for a chat and a cuppa.

We are considering extending our days to include Saturdays or evenings if there is enough interest.

SWAN VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTRE MUSIC CLASSES

Tuesday mornings Learn to play tunes on piano or keyboard immediately – the SIMPLY MUSIC method. Play songs, chords, blues and classical in small groups at a reasonable price.

Call Heather 9296 4181 for more details.

HILLS CHRONIC PAIN SUPPORT GROUP

1st Wednesday of each month Hilltop Grove Estate, 1645 Jacoby Street, Mahogany Creek. Morning tea provided, between SWAN WOODTURNERS GROUP 10.30 - 12.00 noon.

The group meets in the rear hall of The Senior Enquiries Terina 9572 1655.

Citizens’ Centre, The Avenue, Midland, at 1-00pm. on 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Tuesday, and at 7-00pm. MIDLAND MEN’S SHED on 2nd Tuesday of each month. A demonstration Every Tuesday morning and cuppa are the norm. Men and Women are We meet socially every Tuesday morning from welcome. Enquiries to Ted 9295 4438.

9.30am to 11.30am in the Bellevue Baptist Church Hall and our usual attendance is around fifty-five.

TALKING HORSES At least once a month we have a guest speaker on Wednesday evenings 6:00pm a range of topics.

The WA Horse Council equestrian radio We also go on excursions to various places program is now in its seventh year. The of interest (e.g. HMAS Stirling, Aviation Museum, programme is broadcast on the Community Radio Fremantle Ports, ALCOA, etc.).

Station 91.3 SportFM. To ensure that your club, Our workshop with wood working and metal event, breed or business gets coverage, call working is now in Midvale and for the opening Diane Bennit 0409 083 617. hours and further details please contact Rob Cutter on 0419 967 873.

SWAN VALLEY COMMUNITY CENTRE Also in operation is our music group – the Monday Mornings Rockin’ Shedders which is going from strength to The Art Group meets at Baskerville Hall from 9am strength and their repertoire of songs increases – 12pm for just $5.00 per session. each week.

The group leader is Gilly, she can help and For more information on the Shed please advise with most media. Feel free to come and contact Kevin Buckland on 0417 961 971 or by have a look and meet our local artists – they are a email to kebinsv@tpg.com.au. very friendly lot, new members welcome!

For more information call 9296 1976 or EASTERN DISTRICTS MACHINE KNITTERS E: enquiries@swanvalleycommunitycentre.com Friday - second and fourth W: www.swanvalleycommunitycentre.com.

We meet from 9:00am to noon at 10 Brockman Road, Midland.

SWAN HARMONY SINGERS Feel welcome to join us for morning tea and Wednesdays see how easy it is to make your own garments.

Come and sing with us! Swan Harmony Singers For more information contact Pat 9309 3260; is a community choir that meets, 7-9pm, to Liz 9572 7074 or Pat 9295 2793. sing music ranging from jazz to pop, plus the occasional classic. No auditions. Join us at the Salvation Army Church Hall, 371 Morrison Rd, (opposite Swan View Primary School), Swan View.

Enquiries: call Anna on 9299 7249, or Chris on 9298 9529 or 0435 062 728.

FICTION THE UTE JOHN TAYLOR

CHAPTER THREE - THE CAMP ncessant light knocking woke Billy. Poking his head out from a rug and gently moving Janey he was able to observe a faint shape outside. Clyde was standing outside the ute door, hat in hand, hair plastered down.

“Didn’t want to wake the young lady”, Clyde whispered. “Like a cuppa tea?”

Billy dragged himself from the vehicle. Clyde had a little fire going and a billy of tea warming at its edge.

“Sure mate”, he replied. “I’ll grab a pannikin.”

Rummaging through his gear he emerged with a battered mug. “Leave Janey awhile, eh”, he added.

“We’re about an hour out.” Clyde explained.

“Pretty steady going. May as well come in with you. I’d like to catch up with Bob and have a feed. Got plenty of time; it’s only a quarter past four. Be in there by five-ish!”

Five-ish was about right. In fact, at a quarter to five they turned up at Bob’s camp: a few bods moving about; smoke rising lazily from a bright little fire in the middle of a thick pad of charcoal and ash surrounded by a ring of flat stones; billycans shoved into the ring simmered on piled old coals; this morning’s fresh wood flaring; proper daylight still holding off, held back by low cloud and mist.

Muffled figures moved about, hats pulled well down; Drizabone-coated people resembling tree stumps, sipping steaming cups of tea.

Daylight brought a shower of rain spluttering the fire, sending steam off the billycans. People scurried for cover in vehicles and to a tinnedroofed bough-shed nearby.

“Won’t last long”, Clyde commented turning his back to the faint breeze wafting the shower along. “Going to wake the girly, young fella?”

Clyde enquired. Janey had stirred a few times during the night but had crashed out properly since pulling up at Clyde’s ute.

Wouldn’t mind a few zeds, Billy thought. No stopping Clyde, though! Hello, where’s he off to now?

Clyde had detached himself from the group by the fire after a short decision and was heading for his Toyota, singing out to Billy, “Jump in; back soon. Janey’ll be okay! Bob’s down fuelling the aircraft!”

It was a pretty steady few Ks to the strip, expecting to see Bob appear any time. It was broad daylight when they emerged from the scrub onto a big flat dotted with anthill mounds and little mobs of cattle with their heads down, tails to the bitter wind gusting across the plain.

A little high-wing plane was moored a kilometre or so further along, bright yellow against stormy clouds, rocking a little on wire guy-ropes as wind gusts buffeted the plane, fuselage lifting and dipping, the tail and wings snatching irritably at the wires.

“That’ll hold her!” Bob remarked as Clyde and Billy walked from the Toyota.

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“How you going, Clyde? Didn’t expect to see you. Missed the races, eh? G’day, young fella; seen you somewhere, haven’t I? Come on, let’s go back to the camp. Be some tucker on by now.

Come on, fella!” He sang out to the bloke pumping petrol into the plane.

“Let’s move it! You’ve been dragging your bloody feet since we got back; should have left you there. Told you to tie down yesterday, but, no, you know best! Pilots! Nothing but a bunch of womanising booze artists! Only thing they’re good for is flying and half of the bastards can’t do that! Fancy-Nancy prancing around! Pump the bloody thing!” Bob shouted.

At this outburst Kev moved from the opposite side of the plane, extending his hand to Clyde, directing a disparaging remark at Bob regarding contractors and mangers generally.

“Billy!” Kev exclaimed. “You made it! Told Bob here about you on the way out. He reckons any friend of mine was definitely not one of his, particularly after race weekend. Sorry about leaving you in town but the old bastard got most of the crew out and flew back for me early yesterday morning.

“Shanghaied me! Should have heard Vera kicking and screaming. Wants me to marry her, then chucked me gear out! Don’t know whether I’m better out bush or in town.”

“Well, you’re out bush, so buckle down, boy!”

Bob tersely cut in. “Let’s go!”

They drove back to camp; Billy wondering what was next on this merry-go-round, Clyde just dodging along. The sun well up, taking the chill

off; there was no work expected today, perhaps a bit of mechanical on bikes and bull buggies, but generally speaking camp up and duck the showers. Bob motioned them over when they arrived, his back to the fire, warming himself, sipping black tea and chatting to Janey who was splendidly perched on a swag contemplating the

flames. A few of the crew were repairing tyres, others, obviously worse for wear, sneaking a sip of rum towards levelling out.

“Tea’s no good for them”, Bob growled. “Can’t even eat yet. Bloody races! Happens every year and sometimes oftener. Motor car’s what’s done it! Look at this joint! Like a bloody car yard!

Everyone and their dog’s got a bloody motor car!

“One time you got a lift with the boss to and from the races, today it’s more like a bloody car rally than a bloody horse race! I dunno. I really don’t know! Might buy a chopper and do it myself, but I’d still need a bloody pilot and a couple of dogsbodies. I don’t know, I’m buggered if I do.

“Now, what’s your plan, young fella? I remember you at the races, coming back to see me if I recollect. Still, you made it out here, so that’s something. You’re missus here seems orright. Reckons she’ll give a hand cooking and can ride a bit. I s’pose we’ll see about that.

“What about you? Can you shoe a horse?

Need a bit of mechanicking done. Got a toolbox?

I hate lending tools and I might add”, Bob sucked his ample guts in, pumping up to his full height, “she’s a dry camp! Any booze or dope in that ute, leave it there. It’s black tea and corned beef out here!” With that Bob turned, heading creekways with a dunny roll.

“Guess we’re employed, Janey”, Billy noted with a wry smile. “Don’t know about this dry camp bit, though. Ah! She’ll be right; we’ll give it a go!”

Clyde and Kev had stayed quiet, sitting on the ground, grilling steak on the coals while Bob had been conducting his version of an employment application. Bob disappeared into his tent with a pile of papers and stock and station magazines on his return from the creek.

“You’ll be right.” Clyde helpfully added. “Catch up with Barney over there,” indicating a large ground sheet, “regarding horses. Pay to leave him a day or so. Kev here will give you the nod when he’s right: hits it pretty hard when he gets a chance. Be careful how much mechanicking you hold your hand up for; this crew are pretty hard on bull buggies.

“Mind you, they get the bulls. That’s where our Kev comes in, eh, Kev? If Kev’s coming in, you keep your head down; don’t want your scone on a propeller tip! Got to watch old Kev when he’s firing; still, you’ve got to get them bulls. They’re bringing big money and they’re no bloody good out here! I’d better get going. Tell Bob, will you?

“He’ll be camped up by now! Carts those papers round all season; adds to the pile every mail day. Only reads the beef market report; looks at the sale-day prices and pictures and then nods off; bit like a TV, I suppose. See yah. They’ll come looking if I don’t get home soon. Look after Kevy here, won’t you?”

And with a friendly pat on Kev’s head and a general smile and wave to Billy, Janey and the crew, Clyde proceeded to his Toyota, giving Barney’s swag a shake as he went past, growling like a dog as he niggled the canvas, bringing no response from the rumpled tarpaulin.

9

Janey tagged Billy back to the ute, collar up against the elements, thoughtfully gazing down the track.

“Well, Billy?” She asked as they unpacked gear and proceeded to erect their tent. “Don’t you think it looks a bit dodgy? Will these people really sober up? Anyway, how much do we get paid?” Trailing off nervously, applying herself energetically to setting up as comfortable a camp as possible.

“It’ll be all right, Janey”, Billy assured, giving her a quick hug as he bustled by, unpacking his veterinary bag and shoeing gear. “I’ll doctor up these horses, whack a few shoes on and trim their feet. Pick a few nice hacks out for you, Janey. Be as right as rain!”

Janey still looked very sceptical even with the promise of quiet horses and the independence she would obtain from being in the mustering plant rather than cooking and cleaning in camp.

“What about pay, Billy?” She blurted out.

“We’re nearly out of money and we’ve just enough fuel to get back to civilisation and everybody is sleeping! Some of these people could be dead for all we know and now Clyde’s gone! Clyde was nice!”

At this final outpouring Billy gathered Janey tenderly in his arms, her head barely reaching his neck line, arms circling his waist inside his warm coat, her firm body pliant against Billy’s hard edges. Gaining support and comfort from his strength and understanding slowly they parted resuming mundane camp duties as they’d shared this past week.

“What about food, Billy? Do you think they’ll eat today? It’s getting on a bit, you know!”

“Give them awhile. I need a camp anyway.”

With that Billy ducked into the tent and laid down, falling straight off to sleep. Janey pottered round camp awhile, wandering a little, worrying a lot; avoiding contact with others.

Deciding on checking out the horses she approached an Aboriginal couple sheltering in the lee of a large fallen gum tree, suckering profusely along its length, asking the whereabouts of the horses.

After introductions had been attended Janey learned by way of machine gun bursts of guttural pigeon English and casual arm waving coupled with lip and jaw pointing to where the horses were; the same area the aeroplane was hobbled out and that tomorrow morning Jimmy, the male Aboriginal, would be going to check on them, leaving Florrie to cook at the camp.

Florrie used to work horses but she was getting old now and was quite happy cooking, enjoying constant company round the cook’s wagon and plenty of tucker. Janey was pleased with this meeting, nice to see some sobriety in the camp.

Bob had risen, poking round the wagon, chucking veggies into a large pot and grilling a quantity of chopped up steak, obviously 10

preparing a large stew, liberally lacing it with garlic and herbs indiscriminately added as he found them, topping it off with half a bottle of Worcestershire Sauce.

“To be sure it cooked well in for maximum flavour”, Bob said as Janey looked on in awe at the concoction.

“Bloody good”, Bob mumbled between slurps on the ladle.

“Gives old Florrie a bit of a base to go on with. Lasts for weeks! Garlic and plenty of salt preserves it. Cool weather now. Florrie cooks good damper. Got to have a good feed! Reckon a few of these punters are going to get hungry soon as their stashes of rum run out and we get the muster going. That’ll sort them. They’ll eat.

Get ‘em saddled next day or so and jog ‘em round a bit; they’ll be right!”

Janey was getting used to surprises and took the stew pot episode in her stride, promising herself to check the days and any additions as they were made to the brew with a view to hygiene.

Generally, things looked quite reasonable: cutlery and crockery washed and stacked ready for use or for the road; obviously a very mobile plant. Looked like about a dozen people in total, some still not surfaced, others looking like they shouldn’t have just yet.

Nice to know we’re saddling soon, Janey thought. Billy will be pleased; able to show off his ability. I do really wonder how we’re being paid, though.

Billy emerged, finding Janey sitting in the ute reading in the fading light of a very dull day.

Together they headed over to the fire, a hearty aroma exuding from the biggest camp oven Billy claimed he’d ever seen.

Bob gruffly introduced them round for no real reason apart from old fashioned manners as nobody spoke more than half a dozen words

during tea and bolted to their swags immediately after leaving Jimmy and Florrie the wash-up.

Billy and Janey helped clean up, a ritual they were well used to and happy to partake in, retiring, as gratefully as the others, on completion of the job after such a hectic night,

and particularly for Janey, a mentally strenuous day.

Before daylight a car horn sounded and a few minutes later Jimmy gave Billy and Janey’s tent a shake and mumbled something in guttural pigeon causing Billy to scramble out of his swag still clothed from the previous day. Janey followed.

It was obviously time to rise and they pulled on their boots as they hobbled across to the fire flaming brightly, coals maintaining heat on the perpetual stew, sledged off to one side, simmering gently; the huge steel lid removed to facilitate serving stew for breakfast. Florrie standing by had set out utensils and condiments on a trestle.

Bob was serious about saddling up. Jimmy and one of the young blokes had gone early, bringing in the horses to a portable yard somewhere near the plane. Even Barney was moving very carefully: Bob had been forcing sweet black tea on him for a couple of days now and intermittently throughout the nights, allowing a very small portion of rum, occasionally, to wean him back straight. It would take a while yet but he was coming along; at least he was upright today.

Florrie handed each of them a crib of beef and tomato sauce sandwiches carefully wrapped in Bob’s precious stock and station newssheets and away they drove into the piccaninny dawn.

The morning star quietly slipped from sight with the faintest orange blush on the horizon, bright stars slowly waning overhead, promising a cool, clear day.

“Horses’ll be toey”, Billy observed. “Haven’t been handled for a month or so now. This cool weather will sparkle them a bit. Could be a bit of fun.”

The crew loaded into Bob’s troop carrier and two bull buggies; apparently the other three buggies had problems.

“I’m staying clear of them”, Billy vowed to Janey. “Enough bloody mechanicking with the old man back home. Never got me head out from under the bloody bonnet and trucks aren’t bad to work on. These bloody petrol Suzukis and of all things a Land Rover, temperamental heaps of shit in anyone’s language. If it’s not the carbie it’ll be the spark or a bit of both. No, bugger it; I’m sticking to the horses. Soon as they’re in the yard I’ll start shoeing. Barney couldn’t bend over let alone pick a hoof up. As for the rest of this gang, well, I suppose we’ll see!”

They dropped Kev at the plane, secure on its moorings, a bright contrast in the still very new day. Bob was going to do something.

He never spoke much but you could pick up the gist of things watching the play.

Everyone bailed out at the stockyards where the horses were penned in the bigger yard.

About thirty of them, mostly quiet, Billy thought, scaling the rails and helping Jimmy remove hobble straps.

Bob organised the others into feed and saddle details, observing the way Billy went straight in,

sending Janey to clean and fill water buckets in the yard from a truck parked nearby.

Thought she was cooking. Must have got on the buggy when I wasn’t looking. I’ll see how she goes, Bob reckoned to himself.

Barney was dry-retching by the truck, looking absolutely shocking when the bright yellow plane zoomed in overhead.

Bob announced to all and sundry his departure and “could Barney give me a lift to the plane” which had landed a little way down the flat. He left with general orders to the crew to “Exercise the horses and give them a good going over, including shoes!” Barney looked as if he’d be battling to make it back from delivering Bob to the aircraft let alone see the day out. Still, the message got through.

Thirty-odd horses, some need shoeing others clinching loosened nails; rasping hoofs; saddling; riding; lunging. Yeah, it’s definitely started, Billy reckoned.

Barney made it back the full 500 metres from the flat; may as well have stayed in bed back at the camp for all the use he was.

Instead, he camped in the troopie, groaning; wouldn’t eat anything.

Janey made him drink a little at a time between working in the yard. She and Jimmy kept saddling horses for the boys, exercising the quieter mounts, lunging the fizzier ones while the riders were out.

Billy fairly buckled into the farrier work, leather apron on and the rasp flying as he trimmed, clinched and re-shod, tuning the odd recalcitrant type with a whack in the ribs, followed by stern words and then handing it over to the saddling crew for a spell in the round yard before completing the job.

Midday saw Billy stretched out on the ground, half hour time-out to digest and back into it well on the way to finishing. One of the three riders that had lost his seat hobbled back with a sprained ankle, gamely getting back in the saddle and finishing the job.

Jimmy and Janey had yarded the last four horses, saddling three. One they reckoned needed more time in the round yard when the plane zoomed into view and landed. Barney surfaced and drove down to pick Bob and Kev up, leaving the plane untethered.

Bob moved quickly to the yards, concerned how the horse plant was. Kev in the plane and horses picking up the mob were vital in the mustering operation and he breathed easy upon spotting fresh nails, shoes and trim hooves; horses moving easily in the yards, many having been exercised and handled, munching contentedly with access to plentiful fresh water and feed.

“The horses they drafted off should be shot anyway!” Bob half talked to himself. “They’ve done a bloody good job”, he mumbled quietly.

“Must be this young bloke shoeing. Jimmy couldn’t shoe to save his life and here’s me talking, battling to touch the bloody ground let alone pick up a hoof!” Billy, Janey, Jimmy and two jackeroos rode up at this point. Bob swung the stockyard gate behind them.

“Yeah!” He remarked. “That’s one job out of the way! Just a biscuit of hay each will do. Come on, let’s get moving!” Billy was stuffed, but, of

course, he didn’t let on. That was easy to see that the crew had all put in selflessly, inspired no doubt by Billy’s effort.

They were all very tired but pleased with themselves, knowing they’d done right. Turning that rogue horse back, not wishing to injure themselves, either by a kick or a slice from a partly driven shoe nail flaying someone’s skin, or a potential unseating, crushed on the rails or any of the many disasters imminent when handling bad horses.

“Perhaps a little later in the season when he’s been handled a bit we’ll give him a lap or two”, Billy thought. “Right now I need some liniment and a spell.”

Bob had paused briefly at the rail, casting an experienced eye over the mob noting every rasp stroke and new nail. Particularly he’d noted the horse penned off separately, pawing the ground.

He’d paused again, half turning.

“Yeah!” He said. “Get a few of you to ride ‘em again tomorrow and then we’ll”, he added, looking straight at Billy, “have a go at them motor cars.”

Billy knew he was doomed to the spanners, so resigned himself to getting it over as painlessly as possible, heaping as much as he could on the jackeroos and offsiders. Barney took a start when he saw the work effort and professional manner executed.

This young bloke’s not bad, he thought, diluting a tot of rum down a little from a hipflask.

Just a taste, he added, only to level out. He absentmindedly promised himself a proper feed or at the very least soup on their return to camp.

The muster had gone well with only a few brief stopovers at homesteads between contracts and one memorable night at a roadside pub where even Bob had kicked back a bit, constantly keeping a very close eye on Kev who was doing his standard barmaid tracking bit.

Billy and Janey were becoming a little restless after so long camped out but over time had taken on more responsibility with a noticeable increase in attitude from Bob who would often depart the scene with Kev to “check where the cattle are” or “line up the next contract” leaving Billy in charge of the stock movements and Janey managing the

camp operations, including store orders from town, whoever town and mail truck run their contracts came under.

The business of ordering allowed Janey access to homesteads or the odd trip to town increasing her horizons, often with dates set for future race meets or invites to stay over when passing, but she always returned to the camp which was often packed up upon her arrival, ready to move on over the ranges.

Always on an unceasing merry-go-round of cook, clean, muster, brand and mark; doctoring horses, riders and motor cars as man, motor and beast locked horns in the bush with a manic pilot cart wheeling overhead; riders ducking or dismounting as the plane barnstormed in, backfiring, horn blasting as it dipped in gullies, rolling back on a wing tip, gaining altitude to repeat the performance mere metres forward from the last pass.

Scrub bulls hanging stubbornly to their hides, reluctantly giving ground to incessant airborne and ground attacks until finally forced out onto the flat to a hastily assembled mob of coachers; scrubbers dashing in their midst, momentarily saved from the onslaught, stockyard gates later that day sealing their final destination.

Janey’s town trips had sometimes caused her to be late back to camp. Once Billy waiting, worrying, the camp shut down, quiet in the night, flames throwing light on huge white gums by the creek; Billy standing, waiting, concerned and demanding, tall and impassive.

Lights signalling her safe return, a rush of relief as he struggled to supress his coiled body hard against her vibrant dashing embrace as Janey breezed home pausing by the ute, returning with two pannikins, topping a generous level of rum in each, as she whispered a shush when bottle and pannikin clinked; aware of the implications if stockmen and particularly Kev dreamt alcohol was in the camp.

But they all snored on, some twitching on a wild dream ride. Billy thawing, sipped the raw alcohol, laid back on their comfortable swag, his belly loosening its knots and lumps and those stupid brainless wandering questions from late afternoon slowly dissipated.

11

“How’d you go?” He casually enquired, Janey beaming, snuggling in from the late night’s chill.

Daylight brought no evidence of last night’s tasting as Janey had stashed the bottle under the ute seat and carefully rinsed the pannikins and table top. Camp fire embers glowing, sun slowly pinking the horizon. A chill breeze flattening flames on billy-can and camp-oven side.

Janey moved effectively between chuck wagon and fire, clattering plates and forks, stirring up yesterday’s stew, the team emerging from tents, swags and backs of vehicles, some keen for a feed, others hanging back rolling smokes.

“Going to be a big day in the yards; marking, branding and dehorning”, Barney commented to Janey. “No time to roll them later. Bob will see to that. Not bad working with your young bloke, but that Bob just wasn’t let up.

“All day and into the night every five or six days, move on, move on. Good money, but half of this mob are way too old for this caper. Thank Christ for you two, if for no other reason than Bob trusts you on the job and leaves camp more often.

Mind you, half these piss-pots would have bolted by now if not for you”, Barney added, hanging round the crackling fire, warming up, finally having a reasonable feed.

“Even Kev’s hanging in. Bet old Bob’s holding a big quid on him now. Still, money hasn’t held him in the past. One season there awhile back he pinched the plan. Bob just chucked a drum of AV gas on the ute and tracked him down. Wasn’t hard! A few phonecalls from town, as to the likely places he may be, not that many pubs out here and everybody knows who’s who; drove out a few hundred Ks and there’s Kev, pissed out of his tree, hanging off a barmaid, plane parked in front of the pub, no credit for fuel.

Bob fills the plane, leaves a few quid with the barman to wean Kevy back and flies off. Kev follows a few days later in the ute. Then he sort of sobers up, goes well for a month or so and then tapers off. Bob ought to let him go earlier, but there you go, push, push, push! Buggered if I know; getting on a bit myself, but, as they say, red dust’s in the blood. What else is there than horses, bull buggies, cattle and moving? Used to be a good life once! Ah, well! It’s still not bad.

The crew by now had assembled round the branding fire at the yards, cattle milling; Billy and a couple of the boys sorting a few little mobs, ready for the crush, Bob heating branding irons in glowing mulga coals, adding more sticks from a chopped pile alongside.

First beast, head locked in the bale, scything its long horns ineffectually until the dehorner clamped onto one horn and with pressure applied on the handles, guillotine blades sliced through, toppling the decapitated horn to the ground, blood spurting from the stump till Stockholm tar and natural coagulation reduced the flow.

Dehorner quickly slipped over the remaining horn, stockman swinging off the handles repeating the process on and on throughout the day. Castrating, dehorning and branding operations continued, with Kev being called upon in no uncertain terms by Bob to bog in and give a hand both to keep Kev busy and cut out his sneaking around the camp.

“There’s nothing there to drink and there 12

bloody well wont’ be!” Bob shouted. “Now, get some more bloody wood or we’ll have to cut a brand on these bastards!”

Kev slunk off to a nearby Tojo driving, looking for wood, dying for a drink and totally pissed off with Bob, the crew and everything connected with this brutal occupation.

Even flying, something of grace and elegance, was dragged down by the necessity of forcing wild animals from their hide in hopscotch, backfiring attack with extra risk pushing an adrenalin rush way past an alcohol hit until eventually alcohol was the only escape and time the only cure.

Then through a kaleidoscopic mirage of flesh and gut-wrenching delirium, manifesting itself in a line-up of “sneering Bosses in a bar, holding back pay”, daring him on to greater aeronautical efforts, silently demanding in his manic dreaming; as Kev’s reputation and ego pushed him out past a point of no return further than any performance enhancing drug or supernatural effort could take him.

Kev returned some time later after scrounging a bit of wood from the camp and track to and from the yards. Bob reared up like an old man roo on his return and let rip a tirade that stopped the entire crew in its tracks. What a performance.

Billy moved forward between Bob and Kev, grabbing an armful of wood, breaking the spell between the quietly smiling Kev who was gazing quizzically at Bob who embarked on another rush of profanity centred around “cold branding irons” and “dickhead pilots”, viscously adding “as if that last pile of money spent on the plane wouldn’t be enough maintenance to keep it going awhile”.

Kev turned slowly away from Bob to the idling Toyota, engaging gear and turned campwards. Billy turned his attention to the crew, all mesmerised by the performance, astounded by Kev’s silent acceptance and calm departure; Billy was concerned that too much work-related pressure was affecting everyone, in particular Bob and Kev. High time for a break, Billy thought. This is all getting a bit too heavy going.

That evening on their return to camp, after restocking the yards from a nearby holding paddock, it was discovered that Kev had moved his swag further down the creek and seemed happy, assuring Janey, who came in earlier, that he was all right for food and wanted to be by himself for a while.

Bob grunted something about “bludging pilots” and “short-pay weeks” before disappearing into his tent and magazines and appearing briefly for tea leaving Billy and Janey clearing up; Billy dying for a tot of rum but after today’s efforts not daring to even think of alcohol in the camp as things stood.

End of chapter three Living and working under the harsh but strangely beautiful conditions of the Australian bush, JT (as he is known to his closest friends and readers) appreciates the spirit of those hardy souls that have survived the modern challenge.

If you would like to read the whole novel, it can be purchased as either an epub for kindle or iPad. Go to John’s website - www.poetdownunder.com or www.lulu.com/shop/john-taylor/the-ute/ebook/ product-22566720.html or on the Apple store www.itunes.apple.com/au/book/the-ute/ id1086709294?mt=11

COMMUNITY WA STUDENT WINS SILVER ALLISON YRUNGARAY

he Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) World Ta global Championship presented by Certiport, Inc. is competition that tests students’ design

skills using Adobe programmes.

Top students are invited to represent their respective countries at the World Championship where they will create a designated design project for Certiport’s chosen nonprofit client.

In some countries or regions, students are required to participate in a National Championship, and the winners of that event continue on to the World Championship.

Now in its fifth year, the competition attracted more than 110,000 candidates from sixty-seven countries to prove their superior digital communications skills.

And it is in this, fiercely-contested, competition that a 21-year old from Shenton Park, Elliot Tawns, has just won the silver medal in Anaheim, California by coming second of ten winners.

Elliott Tawns and his winning artwork

Finalists were asked to create a 16 by 20inch poster in both print-ready and digital format for client Iridescent (a science, engineering and technology education non-profit organization that empowers under-represented youth to become self-motivated learners, inventors and leaders).

Finalists were given eight hours and could use Adobe Photoshop Creative Cloud (CC), Adobe Illustrator CC and/or Adobe InDesign CC. They were judged on their creative and technical skills, as well as their ability to implement the client’s vision and message.

Aaron Osmond, general manager of Certiport: “The ACA World Champions join a list of illustrious young people who have impressed us with their talent and job-ready skills since we started this competition five years ago to promote industry certification.

“In order to take artistic ability and translate it into the workforce, you have to be able to follow instructions and use the most popular industry tools efficiently. These students did that for our client and exceeded expectations.”

“Certiport advised us that these projects would be both creative and professional, but we were blown away by what the finalists created in just one day,” said Wallace Louie, senior director of marketing, Iridescent.

“We enjoyed seeing and judging the projects and interacting with these bright digital design students from all over the world.”

The first, second and third place ACA World Champions were selected based on design score and were awarded scholarship money ($7,000, $3,500, $1,500), Adobe software, and gold, silver, and bronze medals. Honorable mention scholarships of $250 were given to fourth through tenth place with an additional $250 for the People’s Choice Award (as voted by attendees).

“I congratulate the finalists for their superior digital design skills, passion, and creativity,” said Tacy Trowbridge, Global Education Programs Lead, Adobe.

“The ACA World Championship recognizes students from around the world. These students have demonstrated their skill by earning an industry certification and by competing in a design challenge judged by industry experts.

“This accomplishment will help these students in their academic and career pursuits.”

Certiport is the leading provider of certification exam development, delivery and program management services delivered through an expansive network of over 14,000 Certiport Authorized Testing Centers worldwide.

Certiport manages a sophisticated portfolio of leading certification programs including Microsoft, Adobe®, Intuit QuickBooks, Toon Boom, IC3 Digital Literacy and the Certiport Business Fundamentals certification program.

Certiport reliably delivers over three million tests each year in 148 countries and 26 languages worldwide.

For more information, please visit certiport.com or follow Certiport on Twitter at www.twitter.com/certiport.

HOUSE AND GARDEN COASTLINE SHED DOES IT ... AGAIN! LESLIE HERBERT

W

hen you are looking to improve your property, traditionally these improvements are kitchen and bathroom renovations, patios and sheds.

Now, are you going to go to just any business that on-sells these items or are you going to try to find someone who can really advice you?

Someone who does not push you into anything but can answer all your questions and understands you only just started to orientate yourself in what is possible?

A trusted advisor is someone who is not only there to provide the service or product, but who wants to know what you would like to achieve and will advise their clients on how to achieve that. They can and will advise changing your original ideas if need be.

Talking about advisers who think along with you, René & Phil from Coastline Sheds hardly need introducing. A shed company that for more than a quarter of a century has received most of their orders through Word of Mouth.

Over the last years they have been asking their customers to write testimonials through a company called Word of Mouth Online. This company will double check the testimonial, to ensure it is from a real customer and not one of those many grey testimonials that abound on the internet before posting the testimonial on their website.

This company, Word of Mouth, also yearly awards the highly desired Service Awards.

For a company to be in the running for this award they have to receive a certain amount of testimonials and more than 90% of these testimonials need to be 4-5 stars.

Coastline Sheds has won already this award three years in a row (2014, 2015 & 2016) and has now won again the 2017 Award.

To achieve this 100% of their testimonials were 4-5 stars and averaged to 5 stars.

This is an amazing achievement and comes after a year of hard work.

As owner René Dorgelo says: “It is all about being honest and focusing on our customers. My

mother taught me a valuable life lesson which is also my number one business rule, ‘treat others as you would like to be treated yourself’, it’s that simple.

“Business rule number two is supply the best quality product you can make.”

So if you have any thought of adding a shed to your property why not have a word to either René or Phil from Coastline Sheds?

Many customers have found out it was the best thing they could do.

Just ask René how many cheesecakes as a thank you they receive each month?

13

DOUGLAS’ WINERIES AND DINERIES

These are the restaurants and eateries, casual and formal, and wineries that I personally reccommend and eat at for pleasure.

Fully Licensed Lunch & Dinner A Great Family Friendly Restaurant Only Minutes From Home!

Hours: Mon, Tues & Pub Hols Closed Wed & Thurs 5:00pm – 9:00pm Friday 5:00pm – 9:30pm Saturday 11:30am – 9:30pm Sunday 11:30am – 9:00pm

9453 9698 BOOK ONLINE

quills.com.au

Wattle Grove Shopping Centre, 338 Hale Road, Wattle Grove

Licensed Premises Thursday to Monday and all Public Holidays 12 noon to 9.30 pm (last orders) Bookings highly recommended Phone: 9757 3232 Email: katch-up@katch-up.com.au Hw Margaret River 2/151 Bussell Hwy, www.katch-up.com.au

14

DINING OUT

The Thoughts of an Ageing, Balding Foodie

THE HUNGRY HIGHLANDER

DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE ny trip to Scotland by a foodie must of Asupper’. necessity include some form of haggis and ‘a

Highlands, all wearing expensive leathers, riding beautiful machines and lead by a tour guide On our recent trip through Scotland, it was sporting a St Andrew’s flag on his helmet. top of the list which included, Scottish salmon, They were tucking into haddock, scampi and venison and Lorne sausage, clootie dumpling and if we felt brave enough maybe a deep fried Mars bar.

We arrived at Braemar in the Highlands on a lovely sunny day with just enough cloud to make the sky interesting.

In the middle of this tiny village, host to the Braemar Highland Games we found The Hungry Highlander, a take-away that specialises it seems in various ‘suppers’.

‘Supper’ in Scotland for those not in the know, means ‘with chips’.

We ordered off the chalkboard menu - a Haggis burger supper for me ($8.25) and a veggie burger for Angela ($8.25).

These we chose from beef, chicken, venison and sausages with gusto, although lord knows what a range of puddings - black, haggis, red, white they made of it. and black haggis.

The food was delicious, by British standards a I asked about deep fried Mars bars, but the trifle on the expensive side, but tasty and filling, lass behind the counter, in a broad brogue, told which after all is the point of good, solid food in a me that didn’t make them as they had a tendency cold climate. to explode in the fryer and make a terrible mess. Haggis, for those that may not be familiar We ate outside at the garden bench tables with this delicious treat, is a savoury pudding with a glorious view of the village and surrounded containing sheep’s pluck (heart, liver and lungs); by a troop of Germans on a motorbike tour of the minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices and

salt, mixed with stock, traditionally encased in the animal’s stomach, but now more usually an artificial casing, like sausages.

With uncharacteristic restraint, the Larousse Gastronomique says “Although its description is not immediately appealing, haggis has an excellent nutty texture and delicious savoury flavour”.

It’s a very ancient dish, probably of Scottish origin, but not certainly, unlike Lorne sausage which definitely is - and that’s basically meat loaf.

All the food we ate in Scotland tended towards the stodgy, but tasty.

Portions were always generous, and the breakfasts were spectacular, running to pork sausages, bacon, pudding (black and white) hash browns and eggs - fried, scrambled or poached, frequently with a side order of grilled mushrooms and a mug of steaming tea for the equivalent of about $7.

All in all, we were most pleasantly surprised, having been told the food would be awful, expensive and boring.

It was nothing of the sort and we had a wonderful time. the food excellent and the people welcoming.

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ENTERTAINMENT ONE ACT SEASON IS UPON US ecause of the South West One Act Drama BTheatre Festival in Bunbury, the Hills Festival of and the ITA’s Dramafest all being

DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE

the audience. Short stories have the same difficulties when compared to full length novels.

In short (which is the whole point, I guess) you can have no wasted word, no idle gesture, no pointless movement there is no luxury of slow development or being able to expand a digression Be that as it may, September offers great riches for the discerning theatregoer.

held over three successive weekends in September most community theatre groups schedule their one act season then.

Which means that the Western Australian theatre-goer has an absolute smorgasbord of really good locally written and imported, new and classic, innovative or traditionally directed drama, comedy adult and juvenile.

It is a chance to see the work of burgeoning local playwrights such as James KALAMUNDA DRAMATIC SOCIETY Forte or better-known Yvette Wall and many, KaDS offer An Evening at the Theatre, a many more as well as some of the very best collection of plays and monologues from from around the world. the adult group and the youth group (the There is a general impression, born of Kadettes).

Lord knows what, that one act plays are The evening is dedicated to the somehow inferior to three act (increasingly memory of Terry Hackett, a huge presence these days only two acts anyway). and motivating force in KaDS, who died This is, of course, quite wrong as an recently [see her obituary on page 22] impression - one act plays are far harder to Kadettes Youth Group presents Alice write, act in and direct. in Wonderland scenes by William Glennon We’re all familiar with Blaise Pascal’s and directed by Monique Lewitt; Rabbit by comment: “I have made this (letter) longer David Foxton , directed by Christine Ellis. than usual because I have not had time to KADS Adults present Looking Back make it shorter.” (1657) consisting of two ten minute monologues And that really sums up the difficulty - Community theatre doyennes Kerry Goode and Anita by James Forte, the competition-winning Bound are Milly and Joan as a writer you have only forty minutes to Busselton Jetty 1967 and A Stained Glass introduce the characters, indicate the plot, Portrait. develop its complexities, let the characters grow and finally resolve the whole in way that satisfies James is also the author of A Dragon is

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demands of academic life. He’s also having trouble with his love-life. Written and directed by local playwright Bob Charteris.

Please Sit on my Throne - Did Elizabeth 1 and Mary Queen of Scots ever meet? Let’s say they did and had a cup of tea! Throw in Elizabeth’s controlling advisor, Walsingham, the vague Sir Francis Drake and the ridiculous Erik the Viking and you have a comedy that would make King Henry VIII turn in his grave…

Written by local playwright Yvette Wall and directed by Andrew Watson.

The Fat Lady Sings in Little Grimley - Little Grimley Theatrical Society are putting on their next show, even though the last one was a disaster! A rival company has come to town with a musical. How can Little Grimley compete and make any money?

This is a hilarious play by playwright David Tristam, and the third in the series to be presented at Stirling Theatre, directed by Christine Ellis.

Claire Parks getting her equipment ready The season runs from August 31. Tickets in A Dragon is Essential cost $20 and may be booked through Morris Essential the one act comedy the completes the Newsagency on 9446 9120 bill.

STIRLING PLAYERS YOUTH THEATRE GROUP The season runs from August 25th. Tickets cost $20 and are available from Lucky Charm SPY present two one acts - The Exceptional Childhood Centre by Dylan Schifrin, directed by Liz Newsagency, Kalamunda Central - 9257 2668.

Pemberton and Us and Them by David Campton, directed by Andie Holborn.

STIRLING PLAYERS Stirling Players are pleased to present Playing When Reggie Watson is accepted into the Fool, a collection of three one act plays, two The Exceptional Childhood Centre, a highly competitive preschool, he believes he’s set for by local writers.

Varsity Blues is a comedy which centres on life—since everyone knows that getting into the Frank, a university professor. He’s very pedantic right preschool is the gateway to a successful and is having trouble adjusting to the changing future. But not so fast…Reggie must make it

through the one-day trial period first.

Desperate to prove he’s a fit, he tries too hard, and of course, disaster strikes. As his future flashes before his eyes. Reggie and his band of quirky classmates, deal with the consequences of his mistake, discovering things about themselves and learning a lesson more valuable than the school could ever teach them.

The absurd Us and Them begins innocently enough with two groups of wanderers looking for a place to settle. And once they each find a plot of land stage left and stage right, both groups agree to mark a line between their two territories.

Over time, the line becomes a fence and a fence becomes a wall and the wall grows in size until neither side knows what the other is doing.

Thoughts turn to suspicion, suspicion to mistrust and mistrust to fear, with each side believing that the other is plotting against them.

The season runs from September 12th.

Tickets cost $10 and can be booked through TryBooking.

GARRICK THEATRE The prolific Yvette Wall, who has play in the Stirling season also has two in the Garrick season. In the first, the Sisters of St Judas make an hilarious return appearance, directed by Janet Brabdwood, alongside Game of Tiaras by Don Zlidis, directed by Caitlyn Roberts.

Yvettes second offering is Milly and Joan, starring Kerry Goode and Anita Bound, directed by the author. Rehearsals must have been a hoot.

The season runs from August 16th. Tickets cost $10 and may be booked by ringing 9378 1990.

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COMMUNITY THEATRE REVIEWS THEATRE WITH GORDON

Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.

- Helen K eller THE GRADUATE he Graduate was initially a book written by Charles Webb in 1963, just after he graduated from college. He has several autobiographical references in the story.

The book was then adapted for the stage

by Buck Henry and Calder Willingham, and made into a film in 1967. Adjusted for inflation, the film grossed $754 million, making it the 17th highestever grossing film.

Incidentally, the leg on the film’s poster does not belong to Anne Bancroft. The Graduate has been selected by the U.S. National Film Registry as being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant.”

The Stray Cats Theatre Company is recognised by the theatrical industry as one of WA’s highest quality and most adventurous groups. In the past, they have brought to the Mandurah Performing Centre such spectaculars as Mary Poppins, Wizard, and Miss Saigon.

The Stray Cats are now presenting this beautifully scripted play. Terry Johnson adapted this version with its humorous dialogue. It is

T

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being performed at the Fishtrap Theatre within the Performing Centre, Ormsby Terrace in Mandurah.

This is a two-hour production of the dark and daring play, The Graduate is an adult show, for the over sixteens.

Karen Francis designed the two main sets.

The first scene is Benjamin’s bedroom; it is at floor level in front of the stage. The second is a hotel room, at the rear of the one metre high stage. Both sets are visible throughout the show.

Benjamin’s room is typical of most young men, single bed, cluttered and messy. The hotel room is classy, with a large double bed, an oak wardrobe, and bedside tables with a telephone.

Props by Georgia McGivern.

There are other minor sets such as a phone box, lift and a reception desk.

Monique Kinnest and her assistant Bronwyn White supervised the stage management. At times sizable modifications were required, so to ensure speedy changes several stage crewmembers were co-opted from the cast. The show flowed very well.

The professional lighting and sound design was by Karen Francis, with Rhiannon Francis supplying the sound effects. The operation was by the talented tech staff of the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre and Jon Lambert.

Benjamin Braddock (Tate Bennett) is a brilliant, but confused twenty-one year old man, who after 4 years at college has graduated and returned home to Pasadena.

His loving but ineffectual mother (Tracy Bolton) and father (Colin Howe) are holding a congratulations party for him. Upstairs, shy Benjamin is trying on his new scuba outfit, his parents’ graduation gift; he sits on his bed visibly uncomfortable at the thought of facing all of his parents’ insincere friends, downstairs, waiting to wish to congratulate him. They are itching to grill him with numerous questions about his ambitions, and future plans.

As Benjamin sits bored and tense in his room, the alcoholic, despondent wife of his father’s law partner, the gushing Mr Robinson (Christian Gerish at his best), joins him. This is the sexually frustrated and alluring Mrs. Robinson (Diana Oliver), who has ‘a migraine’ and wishes to lie down on the bed to recover.

Feeling neglected, Mrs Robinson intimidates Benjamin and is soon pressuring him to stay and have a drink. The young man just wants to be alone and relax, he is even avoiding his best friend Carl (Alex White).

Seconds later the cougar comes back – naked. In truth, it is Mrs Robinson’s daughter, Elaine (Georgia McGivern) that Benjamin has always fancied, but suggestion of this competition causes Mrs Robinson’s ire.

Benjamin takes Elaine out on a date – to a strip club. The waitress

(Eliza Clubley) brings a couple of beers, as the stripper (Caitlin Wainwright) disrobes inches from Elaine’s face. Elaine is horrified and demands to be taken home.

Before long, Benjamin has organised a secret meeting for some wild passion at the seedy Taft hotel, petrified in case the room clerk (Oliver Clare) on the reception desk sees through his ‘Mr Gladstone’ pseudonym.

(In the movie, the receptionist was played by the film’s scriptwriter).

Because of Benjamin’s strange behaviour, his parents take him to see an unusual psychiatrist (Bronwyn White).

Elaine finds a new love and Mr Robinson is only too happy to contact the vicar (Angus Young) and arrange a massive marriage – miles from Ben, in Santa Barbara.

Benjamin’s world is falling apart ….

Acting extras included Robbie Fieldwick, Ryan White and Aidan Thomas.

The whole story is about seduction of a naïve virgin by a frustrated and lonely cougar. Tate Bennett who played Benjamin was magnificent as the petrified and confused sex object, staggering through an experience that he did not understand or appreciate.

He showed all of the inner sufferings of this poor unfortunate. Diana Oliver as Mrs Robinson was amazing as the older woman desperate for love and affection, initially fawning all over Benjamin but next minute letting loose with her acerbic tongue.

With Director Karen Francis’ guidance, both actors under played their parts perfectly. Lack of this constraint could have turned the whole play into a farce; instead, you could clearly feel the mixed emotions.

Despite the nudity, the play was not meant to be risqué, but with this delicate presentation, the older members of the audience will sit and grin as they see the discomfort of their own first encounters being re-enacted.

Tremendous, powerful acting by the four leads, Benjamin, Mr and Mrs Robinson and poor Elaine. Tate Bennett is certainly a name to look for in the future.

This fantastic play is rarely presented on the stage, and with so many of the audience knowing the film so well, my worry was that it could be a disappointment. However, this version of the story is not quite the same, and these stage actors were superb.

Even devotees of the film will love this play. ~oOo~ THE SECRET OF SNOW WHITE The Secret of Snow White is a classic, UKstyled pantomime. Written by the master of pantos, WA’s very own Tony Nicholls, Murdoch Theatre Company have brought his doubleentendres script to life. Aimed mainly at children of seven upwards, the parents will love the hilarious subscript written with them in mind.

This lively two-and-a-half-hour show was produced by Tijana Šimić and Dean Lovatt, and presented at the Nexus Theatre in Murdoch

University’s grounds.

Front of house ran smoothly, despite the numerous milling kids thanks to Nasyhihar Md Zaini, Rebecca Dilley, Claire Tebbut and Sara McIntosh Róisín Claire assisted the Set Designer, John King and they produced a good castle wall and gate, a dungeon, forest scene and a particularly colourful dwarfs’ house. Essential magic like this grabs the children’s imagination, and captures them as future theatregoers.

John King and Tim Brain mentored the lighting designer and operator.

Nick Morant skilfully operated the Follow Spot.

The smooth sound design and operation was by Ryan Gardner.

Jess Hooper assisted the production manager Jess Serio in the complex but faultless stage management.

The insanely jealous Queen Nigella (Ella Ewart – wonderful), has once again consulted the Mirror – Spiegel (Aaron Hamilton) to find out who is the fairest in the land. If ever the mirror names someone else, the Queen sends around her hitmen, Rag (Dylan Cox) and Tag (Zharele le Roux) to kill the competition. One day she is told Snow White (Priyanaka Sivabalan) the daughter of the manhungry Royal cook, Gloria Mundy (Michael Thomas).

Will Snow White die?

The Royal servant, dim Melvin (Matthew Dingli), delivers a letter with a crown on the A good pantomime envelope to the Queen. It says that Prince should have lots of Diamond (Nic Doig) and his groom, Gloom colour, fun costumes, (Jacob Wehr Murphy) are on their way. The and a couple of letter announces that the Prince is going to eccentrics, someone to propose marriage to one of the Royal Family. love and another to feel Sir Cumference (Max Conroy) warns Snow sorry for, then of course White that she is in danger, and advises a villain to ‘boo’. her to live in the forest with the six dwarf This top rate panto miners, Lotto (Catarina Chesworth), Macho had all of these features, (Ainsley Marr), Fatso (Tarryn McGrath), Slow plus a wonderful ‘dame’ (Injeong Hwang) and Grotto (Kamara Churchill) who are led by Geo (Tijana Forrestall). Snow White finds that they are all a little strange and somewhat feminine, and a seventh member, a well-endowed Dwarf called Greg (Nicolletta De Gennaro), has just joined them.

In a desperate final attempt to get rid of Snow White, Queen Nigella sent Mori (Codie Lam) and her deadly pet spider, Hairy legs (Xarna Rappold) to seek her Director Kate Willoughby out and kill her.

(my two grandkids did not see through you Michael, well done) and the allimportant ‘behind you’.

However, the playwright can write all of these features into a panto, but not every director manages to capture the genre fully, but there is no doubt that Director Kate Willoughby assisted by Nina Gee certainly did. The cast was alive, vibrant and the magic was a joy to watch.

Ally Snell’s inventive costume design was a delight, from the smart mediaeval costumes to the hilarious herd of singing cows. Codie Lin’s makeup design was clever; from the dwarfs’ beards to the rosebud lips of the Queen, (Ella’s osculation’s were amazing). A huge amount of work went into the visual presentation.

The choreography was arranged by ‘Hairylegs the spider’ herself – Xarna Rappold. Xarna has an infectious presence, she does not just dance but is wildly alive, and giving the impression that she is performing for each member of the audience individually.

No one was given credited for the music, but the ‘Toot, Toot’ chorus went well, with the whole line-up singing and dancing with gusto. Whilst not really dancing, Prince Diamond was performing like John Cleese of ‘Fawlty Towers’ on steroids, with his long tortuous paces and exaggerated body contortions – the children loved it.

Great teamwork. The show sparkled.

Steve Parkin Songwriting Workshops 2017 The PERTH HILLS WATOWA Sessions

“Whether a solo artist, band, student group, industry professional or nervous beginner, escape up to the Perth Hills and workshop your songs with experienced and renowned WA songwriter and recording artist Steve Parkin.

“Intensive but fun, productive but relaxed, ARIA & APRA awardwinning Steve Parkin lives and breathes music, recording, touring and exploring the craft of songwriting” If you would like to know more about Steve’s ‘hands on’ songwriting workshops, Please email Steve at steveparkinmusic@gmail.com.

You will receive full details of his workshops by return email.

Check out Steve’s tunes and some co-writes with artists at the links below.

Make sure you ‘like’ his pages!

YouTube ~ youtube.com/user/TheSteveParkin/featured Facebook ~ facebook.com/steveparkinmusicman/

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JAMES FORTE

COMA LAND Black Swan Theatre Company hat happens to people in Limbo – that W halfway house between life and moving on to the great hereafter?

Coma Land considers people in a deep sleep who might return to conscious life - and might not. Unlike people in a true coma, it gives to the inhabitants of this state the power to communicate with each other and decide the outcome.

Although the play is relatively slow moving – appropriate for this topic – the audience is kept intrigued by the concept and the fundamental question: how and when will they leave this strange state?

For many years, Black Swan - the State Theatre Company, supported by the Malcolm Robertson Foundation - has encouraged WA playwrights with an Emerging Writers Group.

Each year around half a dozen scriptwriters attend monthly meetings at which new ideas are discussed and plays developed.

In 2013, surprisingly, I was privileged to belong to the group. I say surprisingly - because I was really old and everyone else was really young!

Fellow members of the group were Will O’Mahoney, Chris Isaacs and Gita Bezard, all of whom have written innovative pieces for the theatre which have gone on to productions by Black Swan in the Studio Underground.

Coma Land is the latest in this series. Will O’Mahoney has directed his own play, ably supported by Chris Connelly (lighting), and Patrick Howe (set).

The stage setting is simple – a large and bare revolve, with an integrated ramp which leads up from the stage floor. Practically all the action takes place on this intimate surface, often as the revolve is moving, giving us ever changing views of the actors and their relationships.

At the outset, the main character appears to be the young Boon (played by Kirsty Marillier) a child prodigy who has just arrived in Coma land.

The laws of this strange new place are explained to her by Penguin (Morgan Owen), a girl who is trying to fly. Her flightless bird mannerisms were charming. Her father (the ever reliable Humphrey Bower) encourages her with the claim that if you practice anything 10,000 times then you must 20

Coma Land - Amy Mathews and Ben Sutton (Photograph by Philip Gostelow)

eventually achieve success.

And so she counts her hops and jumps.

Jinny (Amy Mathews) is a party planner who provides some stability to the group. The quintet is completed by Cola (Ben Sutton), a panda. It was not clear to me why he was dressed in scarlet long-johns rather than black and white.

All five actors were occupying their characters in a most competent fashion although they will grow further with the season.

Within a short time Boon is simply another member of the troupe and the play becomes an ensemble piece. We are fascinated as each member searches for the object and action which will release them. Can they assist each other or will some less than ethical conduct get them out faster?

Coma Land is quirky, stimulating and entertaining. It opened in the Studio Underground at the State Theatre Centre on the 20th July. ~oOo~ Horror for Children?

A MONSTER CALLS Luna Cinema

This film provides an innovative look at storytelling and as such is particularly difficult to classify.

It has a substantial amount of cartoon content, it has a magnificent (computer generated images) monster, it comes from a teenage bestselling novel, it is a coming-of-age story, it is a morality tale, it is a horror film. You will also need a box of tissues.

Would it be suitable for young teenagers? I think not. The themes suggest it is aimed at an adult market. However the horror is more at the level of a bad dream than a heavy zombie attack.

Conor (beautifully played by Lewis MacDougall) is a twelve-year-old for whom the daily bullying is the least of his problems. His father has gone overseas, his mother (Felicity Jones) is terminally ill with cancer and he will shortly have to move in with his hated grandmother (a very grim Sigourney Weaver).

When he rebels and destroys things, expecting (almost demanding) punishment, the adults are totally understanding and simply say “What could possibly be the point?”

Concluded on the next page ...

ENTERTAINMENT HSO CONCERT FOR DAD he Hills Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1981 Tconcerts

by David Lawe Davies, performs around six each year and presents a wide variety of music, ranging from well known movie themes and musicals to more classical pieces, so that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you want entertainment or inspiration, laughter or music to touch your soul, you’re sure to enjoy their concerts.

Their stated aim is “Our main mission within the community is to bring orchestral music to a wider audience. This means making classical music fun, affordable, and easy to get involved in.”

DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE

Dads and includes the entire From the New World (Symphony No 9) written in 1893 while he was Director of the National Conservatory of Music of America in New York City.

(Fun fact: Neil Armstrong took a recording of the New World Symphony to the Moon during the first Moon landing in 1969.)

As well as the New World Symphony dad and family can look forward to Mozart’s Piano Concerto 21 (used as the theme for the 1967 film Elvira Madigan).

Apart from these two gems there will be other musical treats to enjoy - book now!

Members are expected to be able to play music of a technical difficulty equivalent to AMEB Grade 4 or higher.

HSO are particularly seeking players of the following instruments: Violin Viola Cello Double bass French Horn Trumpet Trombone (The flute section is currently full at this time.)

If you think you might be interested, go along to the next rehearsal and see how you like it.

The HSO do not hold auditions, but there is a six week trial period for all new members.

Rehearsals take place every Monday night NEW MEMBERS WELCOME from 7:30 pm until 10 pm at the Midland Junction Playing in a community orchestra can be a Arts Centre (276 Great Eastern Highway, fun and rewarding experience, and you can make Midland). many new friends who share a passion for music.

Antonín Dvořák 1841 – 1904

The latest effort in that direction is aimed at dads - the celebration of fathers everywhere which we do in Australia on September 3rd this year.

This year the programme is called Dvořák for Concluded from the previous page ...

Outside his window (in a graveyard) is a very old yew tree. Like a particularly grumpy Ent from Tolkien, this yew transforms into the monster (voiced by Liam Neeson) which calls at 12.07 each night. The old tree walks and talks and burns from within. It cannot be ignored.

The relationship of the monster with Conor is complex. Its major function is to provide a level of tough-love. It undertakes to tell him three stories (shown in cartoon form), but in return it demands that Conor face up to and reveal his nightmare.

The images are painted with a palette of blacks, reds and browns which make for a dark movie. Filmed in Britain, the screenplay is by Patrick Ness who wrote the original book and it is brilliantly directed by J A Bayona from Spain. The soundtrack complimented the images perfectly.

Recommended for lovers of innovative films about teenage behaviour - when everything about you is falling apart. A Monster Calls opened at Luna on July 27th.

Three and a half stars out of five.

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OBITUARY THERESE (TERRY) HACKETT 1941 - 2017 Western Australian Tdoyen,hecommunity theatre has lost a many of us have lost a dear

friend, and her family have lost a mum, sister, granny and great -granny with the death of Terry Hackett.

Her funeral and the following celebration of her life at Kads Theatre were very well attended and the traditional actor’s farewell of a standing ovation as the coffin left was most moving.

Carrie Ridey-Clissold (Terry’s daughter) gave an address at the funeral which was warm, loving, funny and informative for those who knew little of Terry’s life outside of the theatre.

With her permission we print it here, slightly edited for length.

“My family arrived in this little town in the Hills known as ‘Kalamunda’ in 1969.

“Over the next forty-eight years, My Mum, Terry Hackett, proceeded to place a footprint on it with her shiny red stiletto. Yes, she has left quite a mark. She loved Kalamunda and I think it is fair to say, Kalamunda loved her.

I knew Mum knew a lot of people but I have been overwhelmed by the number of people whose lives she genuinely touched. I have received so many flowers, cards, condolences from people who wanted to let me know that Terry was someone special. The flamboyant lady in red who greeted everyone with a big smile and air kisses.

“I think one of the most important ways Mum touched the lives of the people of Kalamunda was her 26 years as the Owner/Teacher of Lesmurdie Play Centre and Lesmurdie Day Care. Over the years, whenever I met someone who grew up in Kalamunda I would ask them “did you go to the Day Care on Lesmurdie Rd’? They would reply, “You mean Mrs Ritchie’s”? “Yep, (I would say) that’s My Mum”.

“They would then reminisce about arriving to a warm welcoming smile from a lady dressed in bright colours who could read a story like no other and had a litany of songs for every occasion, whether it was ‘tidy up time’ or ‘wash your hands time’ (always the same tune, just different set of directions).

“Mum treated each child as if they were the most important person in the world because Mum believed that children should be loved, cherished, seen and heard. Working parents could confidently go to work knowing that their special bairn was in kind and loving hands.

“Mum told me that she felt that the Day Care was her contribution to feminism, in that it allowed women to go to work confident their babies were safe and loved.

“Mum and Mrs Bryce first met when they had both just arrived in Perth. The story goes 22

Terry with her daughter, Carrie

that it was an over 40-degree day in summer, Mrs Bryce was walking with 3-year-old Debbie.

Mum pulled over to give her lift. Mrs Bryce asked Mum, ‘where is the kindy’ and she pointed to an old wooden building. Mrs Bryce was horrified and said “I am not going to send my bairn there!

These two young Mums then set up to create their own mini empire, as business partners and a friendship that lasted for forty-eight years.

Mum taught children the way she lived her life – with bright colours, songs and performance. Her end of year Christmas Concerts were legendary.

Every child had a part to play, this meant that a lot of “God’s Creatures” came by the stable that holy night – bumble bees, lions and butterflies. I think one year they may have even been a dinosaur?

“There watching the show was my Grandad Bill, aka Father Christmas, who had a gift for every child and made sure he let them know what a wonderful donkey, King, Wise Man, Angel or dinosaur they made. Indeed, the Lesmurdie Day Care Christmas concert was the first acting gig of both Isla Fisher and Heath Ledger.

“There may be one, maybe two people here who were not told this by Mum? Probably not.

“When Australia II won the America’s Cup and WA was preparing itself for a tourist boom, these savvy businesswomen tried to think of a way they could get a piece of that pie. Enter Outback Outfits, a true cottage business that created the Onesie!

“Kangaroo and Koala all in one jumpsuits with puppet joeys in the pouch. Mrs Bryce cut the patterns in a shed out the back and then Mum put on her red business suit, resplendent with a serious set of shoulder pads and went out to sell them to the tourist shops of Perth and Fremantle.

“Talk about fake it till you make it! And

make it they did, the suits were seen in magazines worn by the children of Pamela Stephenson and Billy Connolly, Meryl Streep and the grandchildren of Bob Hawke. Even little ‘Chloe’, the daughter of Brendan and Molly from A Country Practice wore one on the show. Talk about making it – A Country Practice!

“As well as raising four children, and running a business, Mum always found time to be active in the community. She was a very active in the local netball, swimming and basketball clubs. Many would remember her as the lady on the microphone whose voice filtered across the netball courts every Saturday in winter and the swimming pool on Sunday mornings in summer as she read out results in her ‘what she called’ her “International Accent”: “Retirement saw Mum give even more time to the community of Kalamunda which she so loved.

She understood the importance of community, getting involved and making a difference.

“Mum believed that, as Ghandi said, ‘be the change you want to see in the world’. This understanding of the importance of human connection came from a place deep within her, it came from her spirit.

“It is this spirit that I want to pay tribute to today, this force of nature that was Terry Hackett. Kind, generous, positive and passionate.

It was this sprit that touched the lives of so many of us who are here today and it is her spirit that I hope we will all remember. She was a true individual who lived her life her way and yes, she wanted to stand out from the crowd. I think she achieved that.

“Over her lifetime her work in the community and theatre was recognised with Awards and Life Memberships, accolades of which she was justly proud and truly humbled by.

“But she did not do what she did for these accolades, she did it as she believed that we should all be engaged with our world, if we all just cared a little a more the world would be a better place, life was for living and we should all go out a live it.

“In 1975 my Mum explained to me that Prime Minister Gough Whitlam had been sacked. She told me “we must maintain our rage”. It instilled in me a life-long interest in politics and social justice, an interest we both shared every day.

“Growing up she told me stories about Sister Rosa Parkes, Charles Perkin’s Freedom Rides and my Grandfather’s own experience of being a young man of fifteen, working in the coal mines of England.

“Mum and I shared a commitment to social activism. Together we marched, we marched for nuclear disarmament, to end wild animals in

circuses, to free East Timor, to save WA’s Native Forests and we marched for Marriage Equality.

“Standing side by side, we shed tears at the vigils for Aboriginal Deaths in Custody, the death of asylum seeker Reza Barati and for the women and children killed by Family and Domestic Violence. We handed out ‘how to vote’ cards at elections, voted in booths next to each other, consumed our democracy sausage and then went home to watch the count on TV together.

“We cheered at Julia’s Misogyny Speech, the release of Nelson Mandela and the inauguration of Barack Obama. In typical Terry fashion, at every social action we attended, she would look out for the TV cameras and if they were there, freshen her lipstick. She of course would also always buy a t-shirt.

“One of her favourite quotes was ‘you cannot judge a person unless you have walked in their shoes’. Mum always chose compassion over judgement.

Amongst her many roles as volunteer, she held a special place for the work she did for fifteen years with the Red Cross Soup Patrol, feeding the homeless in the city on a Sunday night. She always bought a ‘few little extras’ for those sleeping rough such as chocolates, chips and can of coke (totally not allowed but you try and tell her that).

“If a client liked her scarf she would give it to them. I saw her take off the jacket she was wearing and give to an old lady sleeping next to the toilet block at Wellington Square. That was my Mum. “Mum travelled to so many places in the world, it would be easier for me to list the places she hadn’t been (Greece, Italy). It was our trip to Africa in 2014, to Father Cyprian’s village in western Kenya, a very poor part of the country, that really touched her heart.

“We visited schools, health clinics and received the hospitality of the local people who had so little but wanted to share what they had with the visiting Mzungus.

“It was the Deaf School in Eregi where she was truly moved. This school not only educated deaf children, but children of all disabilities and they had so few resources. Mum was inspired by the committed teachers who often worked for no wage.

“She found out that the well was broken meaning the one hundred plus special needs students had no running water. She quietly stayed back at the end of our visit and slipped the Principal the money to fix the well. Upon return to Australia, she continued to support the school, sending them money and special needs teaching resources. She did this quietly, without fanfare.

That was my Mum. “One cannot talk about Terry without talking about George. They were just the cutest of couples. Driving around town in the funny little red and black car with personalised number plate “G &T”. They loved each other so much and everything they did was underpinned by this love. They travelled, renovated their love nest in central Kalamunda, directed and adjudicated plays, ran a little radio show on KCR, hosted parties for family, friends and neighbours.

“I was so grateful to George for making my Mum happy because she deserved it. They

were soul mates in the true sense of word, best friends, creative equals and deeply deeply in love.

“When George passed away about five years ago, a little bit of Mum died too. She never got over the loss of her George. She rallied and got on with it, started directing plays again, volunteering, travelling with Izzy or Dee but there was always a sadness within her at the loss of her George.

“Mum was many things. She was a teacher, a businesswoman, a winner of awards, a volunteer, a Kalamundian, a shocking driver, a fashionista, the hostess with mostest, a thirty-three year survivor, a feminist, brave, an activist, a thespian, a kind stranger, a loyal friend, a daughter, a wonderful sister, a sister-in-law, a welcoming mother-in-law, she was Aunty Terry, the best Nanna and she was my Mum. How lucky was I? “She wasn’t perfect, she didn’t do waiting and couldn’t turn right onto traffic but what she could do was make you laugh, feel special and spread love, life and kindness wherever she went. This is the legacy she leave behind – always be brave, be true to yourself and care about the world you live in. To thine self be true.

“Now it is time for her to take her final bow and for us to say thank you to her for such a great show.

“The only words left are Bravo….. Bravo Mum, Bravo.” ~oOo~ Entirely co-incidentally shortly before she was diagnosed and her sudden death Terry posted a poem on social media - Facebook.

A poem which obviously meant a good deal to her and which we re-print here, as it represents her thought and philosophy and which may resonate with some of our readers as well.

WHEN I’M GONE MRS. LYMAN HANCOCK

When I come to the end of my journey And I travel my last weary mile Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned And remember only the smile Forget unkind words I have spoken Remember some good I have done Forget that I ever had heartache And remember I’ve had loads of fun Forget that I’ve stumbled and blundered And sometimes fell by the way Remember I have fought some hard battles And won, ere the close of the day Then forget to grieve for my going I would not have you sad for a day But in summer just gather some flowers And remember the place where I lay And come in the shade of evening When the sun paints the sky in the west Stand for a few moments beside me And remember only my best.

COMMUNITY DONATE A LIFE commissioned by the Organ and Rgapesearch Tissue Authority consistently highlights the between the number of Australians willing to

become an organ and tissue donor (67 per cent) and the number of registered donors (33 per cent).

Last year, a record 1,713 Australians received a transplant thanks to the generosity of 503 deceased and 267 living organ donors and their families.

Some of the key reasons people give for not registering are that they don’t have enough time to register or that they haven’t got around to it yet.

Federal Member for Hasluck, Ken Wyatt MP, has teamed up with Bellevue local and recent heart transplant recipient, Norm Rudd, to raise awareness of organ donation Norm Rudd was born with a congenital heart defect known as Tetralogy of Fellot and has spent his life fighting heart problems. Early last year Norm underwent a lifesaving transplant that gave him a new heart and a new lease on life.

“I have always been an organ donor however you don’t always realise the impact it can have until you or someone you know are the one that needs an organ.

“There are a lot of living donors who have donated a kidney or part of a liver and still continue a normal life” said Norm.

“The message I would like to get across is that you don’t need your organs when you are gone however they may be able to be used by someone else.”

“With around 1,400 Australians currently on transplant waiting lists and a further 12,000 people on dialysis, I’m asking everyone in Hasluck to join the register as soon as possible” said Mr Wyatt.

Hasluck residents can now sign up as organ donors in record time with the new online registration form at www.donatelife.gov.au.

Australians can still join the Australian Organ Donor Register online via the myGov, Medicare Express Plus and Department of Human Services websites, and by submitting printed forms.

The aim of the new online registration process is to address these barriers and assist people in registering their decision to save lives in a fast and secure manner.

“It is important to remember that joining the Australian Organ Donor Register is crucial because it leaves your family in no doubt as to your wishes.

“A minute of your time can now save and improve the lives of ten or more people needing organ or tissue donation” said Mr Wyatt.

“As the Minister responsible for the Organ and Tissue Authority I am very passionate about urging all Australians to jump online today and register their donation decision” said Mr Wyatt.

Share your registered decision on social media, using #makeitcount and #donatelife and share your thoughts on Facebook to all your friends.

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BUSINESS - NETWORKING SHARRON’S OUT OF THE SLAMMER! SHARRON ATTWOOD

just got out of prison this afternoon. I’ve been in and out of jail three Iproud. times in the last year – all thanks to my networks and I couldn’t be more

I work with an amazing bunch of business women (and one bloke today) who give back to their community by volunteering to present on their area of expertise as part of a return to work program.

The aim of the program is to educate and empower women in the community and in the prison system as they get ready to find employment.

It’s an amazing example of how we can work with our colleagues and our networks, to bring about change.

So networking is about more than just work – which we have previously discussed. It can hit you right in the feels.

That was the purpose of today – and every time we present together – to leverage our connection. Plus, I always learn from the other presenters.

Always learning or earning, as they say.

I’ve presented on Networking as a part of the community programs, but it’s not a subject we tackle on it’s own within the prisons, where I present on Interview Skills (a return to my days as a recruitment consultant) or Effective Communication – though I have noticed networking pops up.

Well yes - of course it does – just disguised in work clothes.

Here’s the thing though – we usually end up discussing how to reverse engineer their networks.

These ladies often realise that they may have gotten in with the ‘wrong crowd’. They may also be concerned that they’ll come out of the system and find themselves back where they started – in an unchanged environment and peer group – when they have now changed.

To that end they know they’d be better off distancing themselves and/ or starting to build better relationships within a better network, amongst those who share their changed view of the world.

So of course that’s a conversation I’m keen to be a part of. In life and in business we need to set ourselves up for success by being around others walking the same path as us – some ahead that we can learn from and some behind that learn from us.

All of us encouraging one another towards a shared goal – as general or as specific as we want, or need it to be.

So who do you surround yourself with? Do they share your vision and do you always need them to? Not everyone has to ‘get your business self’. It’s all about balance and flow – which is unique to us all.

Like many of you, I have some friends (and a variety of acquaintances) who have very little idea of what my business is – but we share other interests and they fill my cup in other ways, just as I hope to fill theirs. We share values though – and that does not change.

For us to be truly fulfilled by our business it needs to align with our personal values – so for much of the time our networks and friendship circles will overlap.

I’ve never been one to differentiate between a ‘work friend’ and

a regular ‘friend’. For me, a friend is a friend.

If we share values and vision you are all right by me. I can see though that the way we can support and encourage each other in business is defined by our experience of one another’s journey. So when it comes to business networks some experience is required.

The good news though – is that you can easily find your business network ‘tribe’. There are a vast number of quality events every week right here in Perth, coffee chat opportunities, social media (have you checked out Linkedin lately???) and private events to attend.

You can also consider going through that stack of business cards in your desk drawer. You know – the ones from people you have already met and promised to contact but never did? Now is the time!

You just need to know yourself and your business and get out there! You may, of course, check out previous columns for details on the preparation required to make sure you put your best foot forward.

Happy to help.

So just in the same way as we send our kids off to school and hope they make friends who will support them and make school more fun - may you find a tribe to share your business journey with.

A good tribe – one that shares your values and that you can grow with. It makes business fun and will certainly amp up your energy to be surrounded by like-minded people.

So is business a metaphor for life or is it just a part of our life? Are they business friends or just friends? Who do you need on your team and who can you help? Just as the ladies I worked with today discovered – you may need a different team to surround you to move forward.

You may have just fallen in with a less than ideal crowd – but what’s it costing you?

Courtesy of Brand Etiquette

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP DRIVING CHANGE And that's a wrap! The team presented our signature Prisons Program to the residents at Melaleuca Remand and Re-integration Centre today. 'Tall Poppies' covers all manner of return to work content and personal development.

Supporting women to get back into the workforce with Vida Carlino from Inspiration Source, Phillippa Henderson from Positively You (not pictured), Liam O' Farrell from Chandler Macleod - Western Australia (not pictured), Ruth O'Dwyer from Struth Ruth: positive news, innovation, eco living, social impact, Sharron Attwood from Brand Etiquette, Dani Tamati from The Resources Hub, Kaz Salter from Saltwerx, Meagan Parry from The Smith Family and Marianne Rom from Social Ediquette - Thanks for volunteering your time, expertise and enthusiasm - much appreciated.

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FINANCE SUPER SAVERS MISSING OUT STEVE BLIZARD

Superannuation savers are missing out on free earner in the family, couples may find it beneficial retirement boost to restructure how they contribute to their spouse’s fund. ewer than one in ten Australians are Being aware of the difference when contributing extra into their superannuation, contributing to super can result in substantial potentially costing themselves thousands of long term tax savings. dollars a year in missed government giveaways. While there are still considerable A new study examining more than one million opportunities to make after tax non-concessional super fund accounts has found that 92 percent super contributions, the spouse tax offset and of savers only have the compulsory 9.5 per cent the super co-contribution should now be the first employer contributions paid into their super, port of call. which experts say is not enough to afford a comfortable retirement.

SPOUSE TAX OFFSET Research by global investment group, A tax offset is an entitlement to reduce your Vanguard, shows that some free money income tax bill by a nominated amount, if you incentives, such as $500 for co-contributions comply with certain rules. and $540 for spouse contributions, have only For instance, where a couple has one partner been used by one percent or less of super fund earning a low income, less than $37,000 according members. to the spouse tax offset rules and one member “You wouldn’t walk past $500 if it was in an contributes $3000 to their partner’s super, this envelope on the footpath on the way to work,” can reduce their tax bill by $540. said Vanguard head of market strategy, Robin What is different about the new spouse Bowerman. tax offset rules is that in the past an offset “The inertia factor is pretty strong” he entitlement was only available where a spouse’s added. income was less than $13,800, but this has now trebled to a maximum income of $40,000.

NEW CONTRIBUTION RULES This represents a big expansion of this One important aspect of the latest super entitlement. reforms, in place since July 1, is new changes to Beyond $37,000 and up to $40,000, the the contribution rules. tax offset is reduced according to a formula of Being aware of these changes is essential for eighteen per cent of income above this amount anyone, especially couples, looking to make the until it phases out at $40,000. most of super’s tax concessions in the post-2017 super world.

Case Study One While there have been significant contribution For example, if James has income of $37,500 cuts to both tax-concessional and after-tax (which is $500 above $37,000) and his partner contributions, a series of other adjustments Suzie contributes $3000 to his super, she will be offer the scope to make contributing to super a entitled to a tax offset of $450. new ballgame in terms of strategy.

This is calculated as eighteen per cent of the New rules for personal tax-deductible lesser of $3000 reduced by every dollar earned contributions, spouse contributions and the above $37,000, in this instance $500. future right to make catch-up contributions The $450 offset entitlement is eighteen when coupled with existing salary-sacrifice and percent of $2500. spouse super splitting strategies could be very The spouse tax offset of up to $540 will useful for couples seeking to benefit jointly from remain for any member, whether married or de retirement saving arrangements. facto, prepared to contribute $3000 to their With the new $25,000 maximum pre-tax partner’s super. concessional super cap impacting the high income So, if James annual income was only $35,000,

F

Suzie would be entitled to the full $540 tax rebate on her $3000 super contribution.

OFF RADAR Due to the previous low income limit, the spouse offset has rarely been used by super savers - hence for many it was “off the radar”.

However, with the threshold now increased to $40,000, this means more people will be able to access the offset, growing their super fund more tax effectively.

Case Study Two Emma (age 46) and Mason are married and living together.

Emma’s income is $38,000 and they are both Australian residents.

Emma has not exceeded her non-concessional contributions cap, and her total super balance is under $1.6 million.

Mason wishes to make a super contribution of $3,000 on Emma’s behalf, to her complying super fund.

Before 1 July 2017, Emma’s income would be too high and therefore Mason would not have been eligible for a tax offset if he had made a spouse contribution.

Under the new arrangements from 1 July this year, Emma’s income is under the increased threshold, so Mason is now eligible for a tax offset.

However, as Emma earns more than $37,000 per year, Mason will not receive the maximum tax offset of $540.

Instead, Mason calculates his entitlement as eighteen per cent of the lesser of: * $3,000 reduced by every dollar over $37,000 that Emma earns * the value of spouse contributions.

Emma earns $1,000 over the $37,000 income threshold, so Mason’s tax offset is $360.

This is calculated as eighteen per cent of $2,000 ($3,000 reduced by the $1,000 that Emma earned over the $37,000 income threshold).

This amount is less than the value of the spouse contributions ($3,000).

While the benefit on offer has limits, extending the current spouse tax offset will assist more couples to support each other in saving for retirement, better targeting super tax concessions to low-income earners and people with interrupted work patterns.

Courtesy of Roxburgh Securities Disclaimer: The advice in this article is general in nature and readers should seek their own professional advice before making any financial decisions.

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SWAN VALLEY AND REGIONAL NETWORK YELLOW BOX INTERSECTION TRIALS

a successful trial, Main Roads are ​twelve Following rolling out yellow box line markings to a further intersections on the Perth metropolitan road network.

THE PROBLEM Vehicles stopping or queuing across an intersection can cause gridlock on the road network, not to mention the frustration caused to other drivers who are unnecessarily blocked and cannot move through an intersection.

THE SOLUTION · Yellow boxes are successfully used around the world to discourage drivers from stopping within intersections and blocking other vehicle movements. · A yellow box is painted on the road to show the extent of an intersection and indicate an area where drivers should not stop.

· You may only enter a yellow box intersection when your exit is clear and there is enough space on the other side of the intersection for your vehicle to clear the box completely without stopping. · Drivers who are turning right can stop at an intersection if their turn is prevented by oncoming traffic until it is safe for the turn to be completed. · Drivers must not simply follow the car in front through a yellow box as they must not enter the yellow marked area unless your exit from the intersection is clear. · By discouraging intersection blocking, yellow boxes can help to improve traffic flow not just at the intersection but right through a road corridor.

It sounds like common sense but we often see drivers getting stuck in an intersection, causing frustration to other drivers and impacts to traffic flow.

BULLSBROOK COMMUNITY CENTRE OPEN JENNA WHISTLER

he Ethel Warren Bullsbrook Community Centre Go on down and check out the variety of Tnumber opened on Monday, July 17 at 9am, housing a spaces available to hire for your community of City services including the new library, programs, meetings and events. the Bullseye Youth Centre and the Bullsbrook Rural Place office.

The centre has Free Wi-Fi and accepts a number of City payments including rates, animal registrations, infringements and payments for library services including room bookings, printing and book sales.

Expressions of interest are now being taken from Community groups and local businesses for the hiring of spaces within the new facility.

The centre has six rooms available including two activity rooms, two meeting rooms and two office spaces.

Expressions of interest are also now being taken for hire of the various spaces available and you can submit your submission here - https:// au.openforms.com/Form/fb7e9000-f330-40b1b9ed-a50278223668 26

The Bullseye Youth Centre is a safe space for young people aged twelve to seventeen that provides a range of structured and unstructured activities, with access to Youth Workers who provide information, support and referral to services.

The Bullsbrook Rural Place office can help you with a number of services including community and youth development, grants, local events, community safety, local area planning, City facilities and infrastructure, and much more.

A Justice of the Peace (JP) service will also be available at the centre between 10am and 11.30am on a Saturday.

For further information on services in the centre, please contact Bullsbrook Library by telephone on 9207 8989 or by email at Bullsbrook.Library@swan.wa.gov.au.

Watch our video to see how it's done: youtube.com/watch?v=ntOE41Hhc0o Remember, it there is a yellow box or no yellow box - the same rules apply.

THE TRIAL In early 2016, two types of yellow box designs, using Singapore and UK markings, were implemented at the following locations Canning Highway and Kintail Road, Applecross Queen Victoria Street and Tydeman Road, North Fremantle​ John Sanders Drive and Herdsman Parade, Glendalough Mitchell Freeway southbound off–ramp/ Vincent Street/Leederville Parade, Leederville The two types on trial were: · A large box with a single cross within a boxed intersection (Singapore markings) · A large box with hatching throughout the intersection (UK markings) Through ‘before and after’ analysis, the results showed that the Singapore style was the more effective overall as a traffic flow improvement measure.

The trial also confirmed that the yellow box markings had reduced the number times vehicles queued across the intersection.

WHEN AND WHERE The further twelve intersections on the Perth metropolitan road network are: James Street and Johnson Street, Guildford James Street and Meadow Street, Guildford Ellen Stirling Boulevard and Scarborough Beach Road, Innaloo West Coast Highway and Manning Street, Scarborough Stephenson Avenue and Scarborough Beach Road, Osborne Park Cedric Street and Ellen Stirling Boulevard, Innaloo Stirling Highway and Bay View Terrace, Claremont Stirling Highway and Leura Avenue, Claremont Albany Highway and Liege Street, Cannington Orrong Road and Wright Street, Carlisle Canning Highway and Ardross Street, Applecross Canning Highway and Preston Point Road, East Fremantle

SWAN VALLEY AND REGIONAL NETWORK SVRN NOTES PAY YOUR RATES EARLY

T

welve early birds who pay their rates on time and in full will catch their share of over $100,000 worth of prizes at this year’s City of Swan Rates Prize Draw.

City of Swan Mayor Mick Wainwright said the annual Rates Prize Draw was open to all eligible ratepayers until the end of the month.

“If you pay your rates on time and in full by Monday, August 28, you will automatically go into the running to win one of twelve great prizes,” he said.

“This year, the top prize is a Ford Mondeo valued at over $41,000. Also up for grabs is a Ford Fiesta valued at over $18,000, a vacation in Mexico valued at $11,000, and more.

“The prizes have all been sourced from local businesses located across the City’s five Place areas.

“It’s great to be able to reward some of our most conscientious ratepayers and raise awareness of some of our local suppliers across a range of industries at the same time.”

Altone Ward Councillor David Färdig said residents who pay their rates early were providing a highly valued contribution to the City.

“Rates are a simple and effective way of paying for the development and improvement of vital community services,” he said.

“Receiving rates payments early in the financial year puts the City in a strong financial position which allows it to make the City a better place to live.

“It ensures we can deliver essential infrastructure and services to the community.”

The draw will be held on September 20, 2017 and a special event to award the prizes will be held at the Midland Town Hall on October 10, 2017.

For more information, visit www.swan. wa.gov.au/rates or call 9267 9267.

BULLSBROOK LIBRARY RELOCATION – the City of Swan are pleased to announce that the Bullsbrook library in Chittering Road is now closed and has relocated to the new Ethel Warren Bullsbrook Community Centre located on Maroubra Avenue in Bullsbrook.

Additionally, please note that the Bullsbrook Rural Place Office has also relocated to this state of the art facility that is also home to the Bullseye Youth Centre.

SEED SAVING WORKSHOPS – this workshop will teach you all the basics of seed saving and potentially contribute to the overall health and variety of our food crops.

Participants will learn what seeds to buy, how plants make more seeds and how to save them for future use. Places are limited so bookings are ON-CALL MATTRESS COLLECTION – mattresses can essential and can be made by phone or visit www. now be collected all year round. Up to three per swan.wa.gov.au/events to book online year/per household free of charge.

Only confirmed bookings will result in a EV CHARGE STATION LAUNCH – come along to the collection. For further information www.swan. City of Swan’s Electric Vehicle Charge Station wa.gov.au or 9267 9267 launch and learn about the exciting future of electric transportation on Sunday 13 August DRAFT GIDGEGANNUP SHOWGROUND MASTERPLAN – from 12pm – 3pm at the rear of the City of Swan as part of the development of the Gidgegannup Administration Building, 2 Midland Square (Cnr Community Infrastructure Plan, the City has Cosmo Lane & Morrison Road) developed a Showground Masterplan concept.

You are invited to view the concept and FIRE AND ENVIRONMENT – working together – the provide comment by completing the online form City of Swan’s Fire and Emergency Management located at swan.wa.gov.au/haveyoursay or team and the Bushland Maintenance team are alternatively by emailing facilityplanning@swan. working closely to help enhance bushland areas wa.gov.au. while protecting residents by reducing bush Please note the extended submission date of fires.

Friday 29 September 2017 UNRESTRICTED BURNING PERIOd – the City of Swan INTRODUCTION TO BIRDS OF PREY – celebrate is now in the unrestricted burning period. This National Science Week with this interactive means you can burn without a permit; provided workshop on nature’s top predators at Midland you adhere to the conditions set out in the City’s Public Library on Saturday 19 August from 10am Fire Season Guide. For further information www.

– 12pm. swan.wa.gov.au or 9267 9267 · This workshop is suitable for children aged 6-12 years old. Places are limited so bookings are essential. Visit www.swan.wa.gov.au/events to book online

WORM FARMING WORKSHOP – learn how to transform household food scraps into useful products for your garden. Workshops available in Ellenbrook, Midland and Altone.

This workshop is suitable for adults and children aged fourteen and over. Places are RON FREESTONE limited so bookings are essential. Visit www. llenbrook based Community Radio Station VCA swan.wa.gov.au/events to book online 88.5fm is a not for profit Community Radio Station broadcasting to all areas within the City RECYCLING CENTRE - BULLSBROOK – the City’s new of Swan in Western Australia from Suite 11, 46 Recycling Centre is now open and located at 121 Stock Road West in Bullsbrook. This facility will Coolamon Blvd, in Ellenbrook.

88.5fm broadcast 24 x 7 providing music, accept domestic household items only, free of entertainment and community information to a charge, from City residents and ratepayers (ID diverse listening audience from many cultural and proof of address will be required). backgrounds and is seeking a volunteer sports The centre will be open to the public every Thursday to Sunday between 8.30am – 4.30pm presenter to join their team.

This would be a weekly program involving reporting on the results of local sporting events FIRST AID FOR WILDLIFE – organised by the as well as conducting interviews of the member/s Government of Western Australia, the Nearer to of the many different Sporting Clubs in the City. Nature program provides the community with If you have an interest in volunteering for unique, enjoyable activities that help participants discover marvellous natural areas in and around this, check out their website Perth and the South-West.

www.radiovca88-5fm.org.au and then email an expression of interest to Learn what to do if you had to care for an injured animal and how to contact the appropriate radiovca88.5fm@gmail.com.

RADIO PRESENTER WANTED

E

wildlife networks. Places are limited so bookings are essential and can be made by phone or visit www.swan.wa.gov.au/events to book online

A WIN FOR TOURISM

City of Swan has welcomed the State TValleyheGovernment’s announcement to reform Swan Planning legislation.

City of Swan Mayor Mick Wainwright said the changes will fast-track the City’s ambition to become one of Western Australia’s premier tourism destinations.

“The Swan Valley needs a clear plan for a sustainable future and we need to clarify the future planning considerations,” he said.

“The City welcomes the new direction and looks forward to preserving the unique ambiance of the Swan Valley.”

“Local businesses and residents have a unique perspective on the Swan Valley, and we welcome the Government’s commitment to retain local input and expertise” he said.

In 2015 the City of Swan endorsed a fiveyear tourism development strategy, which seeks to strengthen investment attraction and infrastructure.

According to research commissioned by the City of Swan, the Swan Valley attracts more than three million visitors every year and generated $421 million in visitor expenditure in 2016.

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COM. . e l a d n a r e lleycid

AU

THE IDLER The Idle Thoughts of an Idle Mind ‘never’. If you’ve ever gone to great lengths to

BELONGING GLENNYS MARSDON

s someone who’s resided outside the usual Aintrigued societal norms for most of her life, I was to attend the Being Australian Inclusion

Symposium at UWA where, amongst other things, we discussed what it means to belong.

Consumer Psychology, Marketing and Advertising is littered with attempts to pigeonhole people into neat boxes. The neater the box the more targeted the advertising and greater the likelihood of campaign success.

But what happens when the market becomes more diverse, the population more multicultural, what then? Will the ever-increasing fragmentation cause marketers to disappear up their own strategic plans? Not a pretty concept to ponder over my morning cornflakes.

The Being Australian Inclusion Symposium put on by AusdayWA, boasted an intriguing list of speakers – Bernard Salt (National Partner KPMG); Chris Kirby (CEO National Australia Day Council); Carol Innes (Co-Chair Reconciliation WA); Aleem Ali (National Manager Welcoming Cities) – plus panellists from the Youth Affairs Council; Council of the Ageing WA; Council for Social Services and the Hon Paul Papalia, Minister for Citizenship and Multicultural Interests etc. (hey, it’s a long title to fit into a small word count).

Over the day the speakers explored the impact of immigration, ageing and technology on active participation in modern-day Australian life.

In doing so we learnt that the vast majority of Australians do feel that they belong, a pleasing result. The longer the family history in Australia the higher the sense of belonging. Makes sense.

However, a deeper look into the statistics revealed that one in two respondents in a survey felt they belonged ‘completely’ while a third said ‘most of the time’ and a small minority said

hide your distrust of miscellaneous meats hidden in a square pastry wrapping and covered in a sweet gluggy red sauce, fear not. You are not alone, evidently.

Or maybe you feel a deep sense of shame at not being whipped into a frenzy whenever a certain icon Aus Rocker rasps about his inability to afford a bottle of Grange, circa 1985, and penchant for not shaving.

Wait a minute … he’s from Scotland isn’t he?

Don’t fret, after several cleanskins circa 2017 things become clearer.

Sadly though, there is one wee box of people who are the least likely to feel like they belong in our wide brown land. Can you guess? I bet you can’t.

No, it’s not the displaced refugees fleeing from incomprehensible circumstances.

No, it’s not people grappling to understand the Australian accent for the first time.

No, it’s not even the vegetarians or vegans searching for a restaurant offering more than one token non-meat dish.

It’s New Zealanders. Yes, that’s right bro. Our spiritual cousins from across the ditch.

HUMOUR OH GOOD GRIEF! ONE DAY I was walking down the beach with some friends when someone shouted...."Look at that dead bird!"

Someone looked up at the sky and said..."where?"

While looking at a house, my brother asked the real estate agent which direction was north because, he explained, he didn't want the sun waking him up every morning.

She asked, "Does the sun rise in the north?" When my brother explained that the sun rises in the east, and has for some time, she shook her head and said, "Oh, I don't keep up with that stuff."

My colleague and I were eating our lunch in our cafeteria,when we overheard one of the administrative assistants talking about the sunburn she got on her weekend drive to the shore. She drove down in a convertible, but "didn't think she'd get sunburned because the car was moving".

My sister has a lifesaving tool in her car it's designed to cut through a seat belt if she gets trapped.

Being a fully paid up member of the land of the She keeps it in the boot... long white cloud, spectacular scenery and world crushing rugby players, I fall at your feet and ask I was hanging out with a friend when you to show some compassion. we saw a woman with a nose ring Next time you consider labelling us a bunch attached to an earring by a chain. My of nymphomaniacs when we are simply trying to friend said, "Wouldn't the chain rip out tell you that we live at unit Six, Sixty Six, Sixth every time she turned her head?" avenue, please show some humanity.

Or how about, as the marketing experts ponder I had to explain that a person's nose next years Australia Day lamb advertisement, let’s and ear remain the same distance apart rise to the challenge and aim for 100% of the no matter which way the head is turned. population feeling like they belong.

How about next year when you decorate your Australia Day pav why not pop some kiwi fruit on top. Think of them as Chinese Gooseberries if you must. Just don’t discuss said desserts origins or you might find the fluffy delight on the wrong end of a haka.

If you would like to receive a free copy of the new, expanded digital Swan Magazine sent to you electronically and save a tree’s life, send an email to: editor@swanmagazine.com.au with ‘Subscribe’ in the subject line.

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BOOKS JUST OUT Title: Author: Publisher: ISBN:

Single Skid D. J. O’Bree Balboa Press Australia 9781 4525 3080 2

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n evocative and uplifting story of courage, love and healing is shared in D. J. O’Bree’s debut publication Single Skid. A candid narration of the remarkable journey she and her husband had following an accident, this memoir offers readers hope in the face of adversity.

O’Bree and her husband, David – called Doc – have always had a passion for fast cars and motorbikes; it was one of the things that drew them together from the start.

On June of 1996, Doc left their home early in the morning to look at a larger car, as they were expecting their first baby. That was a day that would change their lives forever.

Doc was in a serious accident, one that O’Bree found out only by chance. He had been in the hospital without her for most of the day, a fact that propelled her strength and commitment to him in the coming days.

Doc experienced memory loss and multiple injuries, but throughout it all, the couple stuck together. These challenges took them to a world they never knew existed, opening their eyes to the heartbreak around them and bringing them to the realization that they were not alone in the recovery process.

Through Single Skid, O’Bree teaches others that every challenge calls upon each one to find strength, connection and endurance through the journey. “We all have a strength within that can be called upon when we need it.”

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble About the Author D. J. O’Bree worked with her husband, Doc, in recovering from injuries and memory loss resulting from a serious motorcycle accident.

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They have two sons and live in Mount Kuring-gai, is taking a healthy walk in the woods when she— New South Wales, Australia. literally—trips over a dead body.

The bony hand that pokes out of the autumn ~oOo~ leaf litter didn’t get there by accident, and once Title: Uncool was the Mule, Tripod the the police and the forensic investigators start

Working Wheelchair and Mr. Grass Pile looking around, it’s clear that the hand is not Author: Jenny Anne Cutting alone.

Publisher: Xlibris AU Three bodies are eventually exhumed. Peter, ISBN: 9781 5144 4173 2 as the most experienced murder investigator on the small police force, is put in charge. hrough her creativity and imagination, Aided by his partner Tyler McAdams, Decker author Jenny Anne Cutting combines three unearths more than a few bones. There are some critical issues that the world cannot just put deep, dark secrets buried with the dead people, secrets that several people have reason to keep in disregard.

A very short read, Uncool was the Mule, Tripod hidden. the Working Wheelchair and Mr. Grass Pile reflects Tyler is supposed to be studying for law how these modern-day problems are being school exams but he can’t resist coming back to Greenbury to help Decker—and be spoiled by Rina, treated.

Uncool was the Mule, Tripod the Working whose cooking and caring have filled a big hole in Wheelchair and Mr. Grass Pile is set in a farm, a zoo his life.

Things get complicated quickly, as you’d and shops.

Particularly, Uncool was the Mule deals with expect in a Faye Kellerman novel. One of the racism, Tripod the Working Wheelchair talks about victims is a transgender male whose former being disabled and getting a job and Mr Grass Pile partner was also transitioning, but stopped to have a child and then took quite another path. highlights about being raped and bullied.

Although such kinds of stories are sensitive Could that have any bearing on one or all of the and serious in their nature, Cutting aspires to murders? make kids aware of bad things in this world and Rina does some investigating of her own, their supposed good endings. It is funny, too. The but this brings a threat that worries Decker so much he gets his old workmate Scott Oliver, book also deals with disabilities.

An excerpt from Uncool was the Mule, Tripod now a private eye in Florida, to come and stand watch. He also taps his former partner Marge in the Working Wheelchair and Mr. Grass Pile: California to handle a particularly delicate bit of Mule went home with her hair dryblown. The the investigation. cows said when they saw her, ‘You appear to Despite following the clues to the West Coast have grown up!’ Mule then did feel cool. She and New York City, Decker finds he is always pulled said to her parents, ‘I just want to be like back to Greenbury: this is where the murders me—unique as you can see.’ She knew and said happened, and this is where the murderer must aloud, ‘I am cool!’ still be living. There are several likely candidates, Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble but that vital smoking gun is yet to be found.

The new model Decker and Lazarus books are About the Author Jenny Anne Cutting is a rape and bully victim. as enjoyable as the original ones; perhaps not Despite a painful history, she continues to be as dark as some, but just as well-written and if happy. Her official website is simple-stuff.webs. possible with even more intricate plots.

(I recommend reading the first two in the new com/ cycle, Murder 101 and Theory of Death to put you in the picture, but Bone Box can be enjoyed as a ~oOo~ stand-alone also.)

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REVIEW

Title: Bone Box Author: Faye Kellerman Reviewer: Karen R Treanor

A

new Faye Kellerman book is always a big treat. I was somewhat sceptical when I discovered she had moved Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus Decker from crime-ridden LA to a quiet town in New England.

How would the urbanites cope with a small country town, and where would Peter find job satisfaction when stolen bicycles were top of the crime list?

No need to worry; major crimes have a way of popping up anywhere the Deckers hang their hats, and Greenbury New York is no exception.

In this third book set in the new location, Rina

Author Faye Kellerman

LEISURE WA BRINGS HOME THE GOLD

LISA SKRYPICHAYKO ecently the Australian Karate Federation held their 2017 National Championship Tournament in Sydney with a good presence from the Perth Hills and WA in general.

They did WA proud, returning with a total tally for the Western Australian team of thirteen gold, fourteen silver and fourteen bronze medals.

Local students from Sensei Bob Allen's Swan Hills Goju Ryu Karate club are bringing home medals from the Tournament.

Senior State Kata Coach Allen was instrumental in guiding them and all the WA State Team towards the impressive achievements in Sydney's competition in Sydney.

Drew Ridley received a bronze medal for Male Veterans' Kata in his first year back training and competing after a twenty year absence.

State champion Men's Kata team (Phil Salmon from Swan Hills Goju Ryu Karate, Theo Prinsloo, and Tom Pettitt) received Swan Hills Goju Ryu Karate state team representatives (L-R): Phil Salmon, Tazmin Smith,

R

Team Kata Coach Sensei Bob Allen, Drew Ridley

Sensei Bob Allen is the WA head of Goju Ryu Australia. He was a referee at the state and national level for twenty-one years, and is one of the WA Karate Federation’s senior kata coaches.

Sensei Bob teaches students of all ages at his Midland and Mount Helena dojos.

Swan Hills Goju Ryu Karate state team representatives (L-R): Phil Salmon, Tazmin Smith, Team Kata Coach Sensei Bob Allen, Drew Ridley silver medals in their division, after having concentrate solely on coaching our team and my recently performed a feature demonstration for own students to aim for and surpass their own competitors and seminar attendees at the Pacific performance goals”.

Cup championships in Noumea, New Caledonia.

New state team member Tazmin Smith also had a strong Nationals debut, winning her first round in a large and formidible field.

“I'm very proud of the efforts of my students and all of the WA team”, enthused Sensei Bob, “Everyone has worked hard, supported one another and given their all. With countless hours on the mats and in personal and group practice sessions, their dedication and teamwork showed in their performances.”

He added, “This year has been a journey for me personally as well. I was very honoured to be recognised as referee of the year for 2016, and having recently retired from refereeing I can now

Sensei Bob Allen receiving the 2016 Referee of the year award

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ART AND ARTISTS THE HABITS OF HORSES OPEN DAY LOUELLA HAYES

undaring Arts Centre presents Habits of Horses, a community arts project M celebrating the historical and cultural significance of the relationship between humans and horses, with a series of workshops, exhibitions and

events.

At the centre of the project will be the community Open Day, a festivalstyle celebration of horses and arts practice in the uniquely creative Hills community. The Open Day runs from 10am to 4pm on the 20th August and will feature an array of free-to-the-public spectacles and activities to delight and engage people from all walks of life. People from all over Perth are invited to visit Mundaring and get a taste of the community spirit of the region.

The Mundaring Sculpture Park will become a hub of activity on the Open Day, hosting an outdoor exhibition of large-scale sculpture, a live music stage, pony rides, horse petting, whip cracking, a demonstration by the 10th Light Horse Regiment, poetry readings, a book sale, international food vans and activities such as saddling competitions, horse shoe quoits and the Great Hobby Horse Race.

Participants in the Great Hobby Horse Race will be invited to bring along their own hobby horse, which can be created at home, or decorated the Open Day. Great Hobby Horse Races will be held throughout the day in a number of heats with the Grand Prize Magic Millions Race held between 2pm and 3pm at the Sculpture Park. Join in the fun, jumping over a series of hand-crafted hobby horse jumps, made by local artist Denise Brown. Participants go in the running to win great prizes, awarded for imaginativeness and flair.

Artists will be on the green from 10am inviting people to decorate a hobby horse or a dressage top hat, and offering horse inspired face-painting.

The Sculpture Park Horse-in-Stall exhibition will launch to the public on the of human interaction with horses on a dramatic scale, set amongst the Open Day, featuring prominent WA artists Tony Jones, Claire Bailey, Denise picturesque surroundings of Mundaring's favourite community park. In Brown and Cecile Williams. addition to the outdoor exhibition, visitors can attend free art exhibitions The exhibition of large-scale sculpture sees the artists tackle the theme HABITS OF HORSES - EXHIBITIONS Gallery 1: Habits of Horses: Serious Horsing Around until 10 September, bringing together some of WA’s most exciting contemporary artists: Madeleine Clear, Marcia Espinosa, Indra Geidans, Jan Griffiths, Tony Jones, Paul Kaptein, Theo Koning, Matt McVeigh, Andrew Nicholls, Anna Louise Richardson, Sue Starcken and Yuko Takahashi. Presenting diverse interpretations ranging from sculptural, life-sized and two-dimensional artworks, the group show collects personal histories and cultural insights, marrying the historical with the contemporary.

Gallery 2: The Horse Tales community exhibition will run concurrently in the adjacent gallery and will include a ‘paddock’ of sculpted hay horses; a wallmounted mob of wild brumbies made from found objects; small sculptures, rosettes and jewellery incorporating horse hair. These handcrafted art objects were created by school children, teenagers and adults during a series of workshops in the lead-up to the project.

In addition to the exhibitions in Mundaring, the Midland Junction Arts Centre will host Horse Drawn, an exhibition celebrating the equine form through traditional representation and contemporary digital drawing methods; and Vahana: Vehicle of the Gods, in which celebrated Bangalorebased photographer Clare Arni presents a series of photographs detailing the making of terracotta horses and Hindu votive offerings for the Ayyanar festival in India. Both exhibitions will be on display from 27 August to 23 September.

In partnership with the Mundaring Historical Centre Hoofprints in the Hills – Historical Exhibition will run from 20 August to 22 February 2018.

This exhibition celebrates the horse and the varied ways the people of the local area have interacted with these incredible animals. Whether used for ploughing, warfare, transportation, entertainment or therapy, horses have been integral in shaping and enriching the Shire of Mundaring’s past and present.

Mundaring Arts Centre and the Mundaring Camera Club present the Habits of Horses Photographic Exhibition at the KSP Library in Boya, which will run until 30 September, displaying a selection of photographs of horse scenes throughout Perth, capturing the essence of horse industries.

For a full project overview and event dates please visit the website H project page: mundaringartscentre.com.au/habits-of-horses/.

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COMMUNITY Compassionate Friends of Western ThaveheAustralia strives to support families who lost a child, regardless of that child’s age

throughout WA. We are a non-profit, non-government funded charity that provide peer call support, group meetings, a drop in centre, sending out quarterly newsletters, Anniversary Cards, we hold Walk of remembrance and a candlelight service (nonreligious) at Christmas.

We are run by volunteers and bereaved parents that are further along in their grief and wish to help others who have suffered this tragedy.

Although everybody’s grief is different it helps to talk to someone who has actually had this tragedy happen to them.

They WON”T say “I know how you feel” as no one can, but they will say “I don’t know exactly what you are feeling but this is how I felt when my child died”.

We raise funds by holding events, charity drives and donation from our members and outside bodies.

Although this is fantastic, we still struggle

with the cost of keeping our doors open so any suggestion on fundraising or donations are gratefully accepted.

WALK OF REMEMBRANCE HELD IN MARCH EACH YEAR Events like these above give the bereaved some hope of a life after the death of their child.

They connect with others that have been through the same tragic experience.

In doing so its helps them to feel that they are not alone in their grief, that there is a worldwide connection to other suffering the same.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We are always looking for volunteers to help man Sausage Sizzles, Charity Shopping Centre Drives and other events along with peer support volunteers (bereaved parents) for telephone support and group meeting facilitation.

information to the newly bereaved, community groups, doctors surgeries and hospital throughout Western Australia.

They help us cover advertising cost in newspapers throughout Western Australia, pay for our office and utilities allowing us to have Peer Support Workers come in and contact to DONATIONS Donations allow us to bereaved that wish to have contact. purchase stamps so we can The Compassionate Friends of WA Inc. receives no Government funding in any send our booklets and other

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A SAFE BET - A LIFETIME GUARANTEE you know that all animals adopted through D idSAFE come with a lifetime guarantee?

That means we’ll take back our adopted pets

if circumstances change and the animal needs to find a new home. Relinquishments happen for any number of reasons: relationship breakdowns, illness, new jobs or even moves into non-pet friendly accommodation.

SAFE will never judge those reasons, as ensuring the well-being of the animals is our priority.

Recently we had four dogs of varying ages relinquished to SAFE. All were adopted from Branches in the North of the State and had found homes in Perth.

We were able to use our small network of foster carers in Perth to find some temporary foster homes and then our Perth dog handler assessed their natures and what their needs were for rehoming and made training recommendations where required.

After that the rest of our volunteer network kicked in taking photos and gathering information for their profiles so we can find them the most suitable permanent home.

Annie, Archer, Zac and Argyle are all very different dogs at different stages of their lives looking for their new permanent homes and, some of them, foster homes.

ANNIE Annie is five and a half years old and the sweetest gentle giant you’ll ever meet. She adores humans and cuddles and pats and is generally just so happy to have her humans close by. She loves playing with her foster brother border collie and is good with kids as long as they are gentle with her.

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ARCHER From calm to bouncy! Eleven month old Archer and nine month old Argyle are both full of beans and in need of running buddies. Archer is very smart and loves to run, play and learn as much as he can. He’d be a star at agility or flyball and with consistent training will be a fabulous pet.

ARGYLE Energetic Argyle definitely has her puppy pants on and would give Archer a run for his money in agility. Again with strong, consistent training and lots of adventures she’ll be a great active companion.

ZAC Finally, there’s five year old Zac, a gorgeous coarse coated Jack Russell mix. He’s excellent at obedience skills and loves his food!

Zac is in need of a quieter home without other dogs, cats or children as he can get a little scared in unpredictable situations.

Archer has been in a boarding kennel for two weeks while waiting for a foster care placement and we need to move Zac and Argyle from their current carers urgently.

So if you can provide cuddles, quiet time or massive runs whether for foster care or permanent adoption, call us at SAFE Karratha on (08) 9185 4634.

MORE ABOUT SAFE SAFE is a not for profit organisation that saves rehomable animals from euthanasia, using a foster care model instead of cages.

We have ten branches across WA - located in Broome, Newman, Hedland, Karratha, Carnarvon, Esperance, Bunbury, Busselton, Albany and Goldfields. And most members of our multiskilled board are Perth-based.

Many of our animals are rehomed from WA’s remote areas to Perth with the assistance of our airline sponsors. We have desexed and rehomed more than 14,000 animals in fourteen years – all achieved by volunteers working country-wide, performing an array of tasks.

Our overheads are kept small because of our volunteers’ commitment. Our primary expenses are veterinary costs and now, keeping up to date with the technological communications needs of a virtual volunteer workforce.

VOLUNTEER Virtual Volunteering Modern technology makes volunteering possible from anywhere. From a distance, volunteers using the internet and phone can write accurate profiles, co-ordinate photographers and profilers, perform website content management, write stories for publications, do public relations and administrative work.

PETS THE IMPORTANCE OF FOOTWORK AND DEPORTMENT s how we move important when training our Ireason dogs? The simple answer is Yes it is and the is to do with how dogs communicate –

through body language.

Dogs communicate between themselves using, at times, very subtle body cues and signals.

So in order for them to gather information about what we are verbally mumbling at them they study our body language, it’s that easy.

Humans are very much creatures of habit, repeating commands would be one of our worst habits when we communicate with our dogs, we’re also very inconsistent with our gestures all of which confuses the dog and looks terrible.

I’ve lost count at the times during classes that I see owners firstly point a finger at the dog to indicate “sit” while repeating the command and then change their whole posture and hand position.

Imagine if these people where trying to communicate in sign language to a person who is deaf but continued to change the signal cues and rules there would be very little chance for the receiver to understand the message being given.

The more we are aware of our posture and body cues the more consistent we can become and the clearer the message is to the dog. This applies when training the home pet dog to the dog being used in any competitive sport from Obedience to Agility. I train as I compete and compete as I train - its called being consistent.

Like many other competitors and trainers I’ve spent hours trying to learn perfect footwork only to find that as soon as I’m working my dog it all goes out the window and therefore a Direct Volunteering If you’d prefer direct contact with the animals in Perth, we’d love to welcome more foster carers in particular. But also people with extensive animal behaviour knowledge, animal photographers, people to transport animals and even to clean crates.

Our greatest need in Perth at the moment is for foster carers. Annie, Archer, Argyle and Zac’s stories show how pivotal it is for our program to have Perth based as well as state-wide foster carers.

Fostering is a vital role as it provides rehabilitation, training, caring and loving of animals to prepare them for their new lives with permanent owners.

To make a difference and join our committed and dynamic team of volunteers, please email our

JACQUIE HUMPHREY complete waste of time. I’m not going to write down instructions for footwork as heelwork should look natural and happy and to me placing one’s feet carefully in a clockwork manner when turning can hardly look natural or relaxed.

Having said that, I do believe that how we walk and turn assists the dog in maintaining the correct position by our side, therefore deportment is important.

The two important aspects of walking in the ring are balance and an ability to walk in a straight line both of which will enable your performance to look smooth. This is all controlled by your eyes and where you look.

Imagine that you are walking through the local shopping car park when you hear someone behind you call your name. Think about how you react .... you hear, you then turn your head to LOOK and your body follows ... you don’t even give a thought to your footwork, it all happens naturally.

This is what I base my footwork on. I suggest you practice walking in a straight line by picking an object way out in front to focus on. At some point along the way decide to make a turn to your right. Look to your right again picking an object to focus on while you do this make a note of what happens with your feet.

You should find that you will pivot on the right foot, balance yourself with a small step with the left foot and walk out if the turn with the right foot. This should also apply when turning to the left.

The Right-about and Left-About turns are simply an extension of the other turns. But care

head office at safehq@safe.asn.au or phone us at our Head Office which is based in Karratha at (08) 9185 4634.

DONATE We are always in need of donations to pay vet bills as every rescue animal has to be desexed, vaccinated and microchipped at the least. We are also in need of funds to enable us to keep up with the technological needs for our virtual workforce to communicate effectively so that our work can continue.

We are a registered charity with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profit Commission. And we are a member of AWLA Animal Welfare League of Australia.

To donate, information can be found on: safe. asn.au/How_to_help/Donate.html

must be taken in all turns to keep the feet and legs close together in order not to leave the dog behind or to send the dog wide.

I like to feel my knees brushing each other as I step around the turn. Keeping the posture upright but relaxed and control the movement in your arms nothing looks worse than arms swinging around in the breeze and this can not only confuse a sensitive dog but cost penalties if the judge decides you are giving extra signals.

For owners not motivated into becoming competitive junkies the same rules apply. You are still being judged....by your dog!

Give thought to how you can open the line of communication for example when wanting your dog to sit say your dogs name and when he makes eye contact with you, and not before, give the command clearly and quietly “Sit” simultaneously raising your right hand with palm upward.

Soon the dog will sit just on the signal alone and the response will be noticeably quicker.

Some points to remember are • Keep your body posture upright don’t lean or bend over your dog.

• At least 50% of control is maintained by eye contact so encourage your dog to look up at you, but avoid staring at your dog as this will cause him to look away.

• If you own a small breed and feel a need to get down to your dog then squat so that your back remains straight and your head upright.

• Choose clear and distinctive hand signals for each command you give verbally, be consistent.

• Above all don’t repeat commands or the dog’s name; doing so will work against you and confuse the dog.

Like with anything in life we don’t know enought about, be it computers, dancing, piano playing, riding a horse or driving a car, we go and do a course or book lessons so if you are having difficulty in training your dog consider getting some professional tuition – dogs are not stupid believe me most have their owners really well trained!

Courtesy of Dog Logics

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The Royal Western Australian Historical Society Inc. Annual State History Conference of Affiliated Societies 8th to 10th September 2017

Wanneroo Where History Meets Today

Program Friday 8th September – Civic Reception Saturday 9th September – Conference Conference Dinner Sunday 10th September – Tours, Lunch and Closing

Proudly Hosted by Wanneroo Historical Society Inc.

Registrations now open Contact: margaret@Inet.net.au or birchmont21@hotmail.com

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