Swan Magazine June 2015

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O N LY A N H O U R ’S D R I V E F R O M T H E c i t y

V i s i t w w w. t o o d y a y. c o m f o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n o r c a l l ( 0 8 ) 9 5 7 4 2 4 3 5

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HAVE YOUR SAY IN SWAN MAGAZINE’S FUTURE

Dear Reader: As you know, early this year we launched the digital version of the Swan Magazine. This has proved phenomenally successful, going from zero readers (obviously) in January to May’s more than 16,000. And all this with minimal advertising and marketing.

The advantages of digital publication over print are - in no particular order • No trees get hurt in the manufacture of the magazine (we have used more than ten million pages over the past fifteen years of production - a horrifying figure) • Advertising becomes very much cheaper - 50% less cost immediately, more as print copies pay for themselves.

• There are no geographic boundaries - we have readers in Gosnells and Tasmania as well as Toodyay and Fremantle • Back issues can be downloaded free of charge (I can’t tell you the number of calls we get ‘You ran an article on

Ferrets a while ago, can I get a copy?’)

• We can expand the size of the magazine pretty much infinitely it’s currently 42 pages over the print copy’s 32 - but we could take that to 60 pages easily.

• We significantly reduce our carbon footprint. We currently use oxygenbleached recycled paper with vegetable based inks to do as little damage as possible, but even so, we produce significant carbon dioxide.

• If you want to read only one article out of the magazine, or send it to a friend, you can do so far more easily at no postage costs.

• The Swan Magazine can be read on-line on your computer, or on your iPhone, iPad or Laptop through Issuu.

• It’s published as a Pdf and on-line on the website Issuu, so copies are always available.

The disadvantages are: • No print copy on glossy paper.

As the advantages so heavily outweigh the disadvantages we are considering a six month trial of the following -

I support the move to digital publication

• The main focus of the magazine will be the digital edition, which we will heavily promote through social media and other forms of marketing.

This will expand our circulation and readership.

• Print copies will continue to be printed, but they will no longer be free. We recognise that the major demand for print copies is from the elderly and consequently will be charging little over production and/or postage costs plus they will be on sale at selected newsagents and outlets.

We are proposing to trial this for the 29th volume (July-December 2015).

Now I’d like your views and opinions, please. We have prepared a very short survey and I be most grateful if you could see your way to completing it - there are only four yes/ no questions and space for comments.

The survey is here: https://www. surveymonkey.com/s/SwanMag or fill out the coupon below.

Regards Douglas Yes

No

Not Applicable

I support charging for print copies (around $2.50) If you are an advertiser, would you continue to advertise at the lower rate?

If you are not an advertiser, would you consider advertising as the rate is so much lower than print advertising?

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IN THIS ISSUE PAGE

FEATURES

Art and Artists New Photography Comp 20 MAC in June 20 New Photographic Studio 21 Books 18 Books and Writing 19 Business Card Board 31,32 Chef-Adventurer Community New Midland Medical Centre Machine Knitting Nesting Boxes Help Broken Toe No Barrier History Ramble Buying Time Thank You From Seed to Plate Good Neighbour Sunday Befriend Inc Blooming Minds Dining Out Soul Tree CafĂŠ

12 4 2 6 6 13 15 15 15 25 8

Editorial Inside cover Education

28 Entertainment 16 Finance 29 Fiction 24

SWAN MAGAZINE

Published by: Synhawk Publications Pty Ltd WEBSITE:

www.swanmagazine.com.au

Publisher: Douglas Sutherland-Bruce editor@swanmagazine.com.au

PAGE Gardening Worm Workshop 5 Action Urged on Wattles 5 Myths About Bird Baths 7 Together Towards Recovery 7 Health Matters Smoking Energetic Kineisology Hills People

2 3 9

Notes From Parliament

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Poetry Worry The Great Blue Yonder

12 23

Rotary

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SAFE Style by Kirsty The Idler The Voice of Swan Hills Toodyay Feature Toodyay International

Food Festival Avon Descent

23 14 17 26

What’s On

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10 11

COVER PICTURE Black Cockatoo

Photograph

by Heather Thorning

See feature on page 2.

Editor: Jan Patrick office@swanmagazine.com.au Office: 14 Ridge Road, Glen Forrest, Western Australia Phone: 9578 3845 E-mail: office@swanmagazine.com.au

Have a book to publish?

Sales: Jessi Ford 0418 934 850 E-mail: office@swanmagazine.com.au

v Family History v Non-Fiction v Autobiography v Biography v Fantasy v Fiction v Poetry

Postal Address: P.O. Box 554, Mundaring Western Australia 6073 JULY DEADLINES: Advertisements: 25th June Editorial: 3rd July Copyright: Synhawk Publications Pty Ltd 2015

Printed in Western Australia by Vanguard Press using petroleum free inks and green electricity on plantation sourced paper. Both paper manufacturer and printer are certified to ISO14001, the highest environmental standard.

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. Synhawk Publications Pty Ltd does not accept any liability for any statements or any opinion, or for any errors or omissions contained herein.

See 32 e Pag

Get expert advice on layout, editing, costings, publishing and marketing from professional editors First consultation free Free quotes

Swinburne Press (founded 1989) P: 6296 5161 E: douglassb@iinet.net.au

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HEALTH MATTERS SMOKING - QUIT, BECAUSE YOU CAN JOHN BELL

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he recent World No Tobacco Day focuses our attention on the benefits of being a nonsmoker.

The goals of this year’s campaign were: v Raise awareness on the harm to people’s health caused by the illicit trade in tobacco products, especially youth and low-income groups, due to the increased accessibility and affordability of these products due to their lower costs. v Show how health care gains and programmes, tobacco control policies, like increased tax and prices, pictorial health warnings and other measures are undermined by the illicit trade in tobacco products. v Demonstrate how the tobacco industry has been involved in the illicit trade of tobacco products.

causing substances.

Infants and young children exposed to tobacco smoke have more chest infections and asthma, and an increased risk of death from SIDS. The only way to fully protect people from involuntary exposure to tobacco smoke is to ban smoking in locations such as indoor work places, public transport, indoor public places and other public places, as appropriate.

This is one of the WHO recommendations to governments in a resolution known as the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. The resolution was endorsed by Commonwealth health ministers meeting in Geneva and later adopted by the World Health Assembly representing all nations of the world.

Other clauses in this resolution relate to pricing, labelling and advertising of tobacco

v Highlight how the illicit trade of tobacco products is a means of amassing great wealth for criminal groups to finance other organised crime activities, including drugs, human and arms trafficking, as well as terrorism. v Promote the ratification of, accession to and use of the Protocol to Eliminate Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products by all Parties to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and its early entry into force through the active involvement of all relevant stakeholders.

The global tobacco epidemic kills nearly sixmillion people each year, of which more than 600 000 are non-smokers dying from breathing second-hand smoke.

A study has shown that passive smoking – inhaling smoke from someone else’s cigarette – may not be quite so likely to cause lung cancer or heart disease as first thought. But whether your smoking is first hand or second hand, there’s no doubt you’ll be better off without it.

According to the WHO, second-hand smoke is a complex mixture of more than 4000 chemical compounds including forty-three known cancer-

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products – all issues which at least to some degree have already been addressed in Australia.

However, it seems not all countries currently have a similar understanding of the dangers of smoking. WHO estimates that tobacco-related illnesses will increase to nearly ten million deaths per year within the next twenty years And 70% of these deaths are expected to be in the developing world.

In Australia, pretty much everyone knows that smoking kills and causes disease. Perhaps the greatest challenge now is for those people who really want to quite smoking but just can’t manage it.

If you are a smoker, and this year you have resolved to quit, congratulations. It is a decision you will not regret. Even so, it may not be easy.

Remember there’s no shame in failure to quit. Most people can’t quit the first time around; nicotine is a very addictive chemical.

Here are some tips thay may help:

v Try to stay committed to quitting. People who have successfully stopped smoking long-term say that it is important to be clear about your reasons for wanting to quit.

Think about the benefits of not smoking. Of course, good health is a good reason. By now we must all know about the health risks of smoking.

Smokers are ten times more likely to die of lung cancer than non-smokers; and smoking is a major cause of cancers of the mouth, tongue, lips and gums. There is also a link between smoking and stomach cancer.

Women who smoke run a greater risk of osteoporosis, cervical cancer and menopause problems; and smoking increases the likelihood of angina, heart attacks and stroke.

You’ll feel the difference of quitting almost immediately.

You will taste and smell food better. In fact, you will smell better. You’ll have fewer days of illness and fewer health complaints. v A few months after you stop smoking your heart and lungs will be healthier. After twelve months your risk of heart disease will be halved.

And there are real financial benefits as well – it costs $7000 a year to smoke a pack of cigarettes a day. v If cigarette cravings begin, try the 4Ds as recommended by the Quitline: Delay If you feel like a cigarette, delay - wait for at least five minutes, the urge will pass; Deep Breath Breathe slowly and deeply; Do something else - keep your hands busy; and lastly, Drink water - take “time-out” and sip slowly. v You do not have to go “cold turkey” to quit. Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) has been shown to double your chances of quitting successfully and staying a non-smoker.

There are now several NRT products available in Australia without prescription: patches, gum, lozenges and an inhaler. Each of these products works to release a steady amount of nicotine into the body to help prevent cravings for tobacco.

Of course, you still get some nicotine, but much less than you would from cigarettes and NRT products contain no tars or poisonous gases.

NRT is generally used for two or three months after quitting. And as it doesn’t have the same addictive potential as smoking, few people find it necessary to continue longer than this.

Your pharmacist can help you decide whether NRT is suitable for you and, if so, what product would be most appropriate.

Do it for yourself, your family and for the good health of the nation.

HEALTH MATTERS ENERGETIC KINEISOLOGY AND MONITORING MUSCLES LIANE CUGLEY Dip Kinesiology

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ow can a muscle indicate an emotional, mental or physical response to a certain situation or issue?

As all muscles are connected to the brain by biofeedback through our central nervous system, any stress whether conscious or subconscious, physical or emotional will register via monitoring muscles that are used in energetic kinesiology.

First the "monitoring" muscle is checked through a number of tests to make sure it is in homeostasis and that it is functioning so the practitioner is able to work with this muscle as an indicator. The muscle will then either "lock" or "unlock" depending on what stress is showing.

As muscle response is mainly subconscious it is able to access other aspects of your being including, emotional, mental and spiritual, rather than just your physical body.

The majority of our bodily functions are done subconsciously for example, when you get up from a sitting position, there are many muscles, tendons, ligaments etc, that are required for you

to remember that event and the feelings, thoughts associated with it. As your brain remembers an experience as if it is happening now, even if it was many years ago, the same reaction programming is triggered.

This same reaction can also be triggered even if it is an imagined event. If stress is present in the body due to this event, this is what causes our muscle to 'lock' or 'unlock', indicating to the practitioner that more information may need to be gathered around this situation or that a correction maybe required at this time to "shift" the stress associated with this event.

As you can see, it is the subconscious that is driving this locking/unlocking of the monitoring muscle. So if the client is uncomfortable with verbalising the details of the event, they can merely think about the feelings, thoughts etc associated with that event and the muscles will indicate a stress. The practitioner can stack this into the circuit to heal it with the adequate correction required by the body.

In energetic kinesiology there is a strong correlation between muscles of the body, organs and glands and their corresponding meridian, as identified by the Chinese meridian system.

George Goodheart in the 1960s with his system of Applied Kinesiology, made the link between Chinese meridian system and muscle testing.

This allowed the discovery of the relation between the endocrine glands and meridian system, as well other organs, more widely recognised by western physiology. This paved the way for energetic kinesiology to incorporate and fine tune the use of muscle monitoring in its treatments.

If physical pain is present in a muscle(s) and that muscle is too painful to use to monitor. The practitioner can surrogate another muscle in its place and use this muscle to monitor for the original muscle that has the problem. The same healing dynamics will still occur for the original muscle and help to bring it back into repair.

Courtesy of Complete K inesiology

to lift yourself from the chair into a standing position. This is an example of how we have programmed and stored information in the subconscious to response automatically.

This programming is very strong as sometimes it must override our conscious decisions, in this way the subconscious is number one in protecting the body for survival not only physically, but emotionally and mentally.

Have you ever tried to lift something that is too heavy for you? Your muscles will automatically signal to your brain that you are unable to lift it, again the subconscious wins and over rides the conscious no matter how much you want or need to lift the object, you can't.

As neuropathways are set down when we experience an event, these same pathways help us 3

COMMUNITY NEW MIDLAND MEDICAL CENTRE MORGAN RALPH

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he Commonwealth Government will support Curtin University’s proposal to establish a new medical school that will help address the health workforce needs of Western Australia.

Ken Wyatt MP, Federal Member for Hasluck, welcomed the announcement after fighting for the medical school that will benefit Hasluck and the East Metropolitan Region.

“This medical school, based at the new Midland Health Campus, will contribute to supporting the health needs of the Western Australian community,” said Mr Wyatt.

“Unlike other states, Western Australia’s medical workforce has not kept pace with the growth in the population nor the turnover in the medical workforce. This is most pronounced in the severe shortage of General Practitioners in rural and outer metropolitan areas.

“The most recent assessment shows that compared to the national average per capita, Western Australia has 950 fewer doctors.

“This presents difficulties for the community as many Western Australians experience long wait times for doctors, lower rates of bulk billing, GP Practices closing their books to new patients and ultimately heavier demand on the public hospital emergency departments.”

Curtin University will offer a new five-year undergraduate, direct-entry medical programme that will select and train students to work in areas of need around Western Australia.

In partnership, the Western Australian Government and the University will be providing all capital funding for the establishment of the

Ken Wyatt MP, Premier Colin Barnett MLA, Curtin University Vice-Chancellor Deborah Terry and Prime Minister Tony Abbott MP

new medical school. The Commonwealth will contribute through the funding of new medical Commonwealth Supported Places for the school from 2019-20.

When the school reaches full capacity in 2022, it will provide a hundred and ten new places per year.

“The Western Australian Government will ensure that these students receive the further training they require once they have completed

their medical school studies,” said Mr Wyatt.

“Under the proposal, any increase in students is matched by increased intern places and registrar places in WA Public Hospitals into the future.

“It will provide new clinical training and supervision, internships and specialist training places for all students of the new school.

“This will be in addition to current training and internships provided to students of other medical schools in Western Australia.”

MACHINE KNITTING PAT LIDDLE

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Saturday 13 June 10am - 2pm Ellenbrook Salvation Army Hall Woodlake Boulevard, Ellenbrook Come along to a family friendly indoor market featuring a variety of stalls, face painter, balloon twister & hot coffee.

There will also be a FREE Children’s Corner featuring Craft & Giant Games Activties!

For more information call 9524 9517 or visit: facebook.com/localandgeneralmarkets

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s a member of the Eastern Districts Machine Knitting Group here are my thoughts of hand versus machine knitting.

Having been a lover of hand knitting from an early age I used to sit and knit when I should have been doing homework. Though it is true that you never stop learning or are too old to learn, what I enjoy now is learning about various crafts with machine knitting being a favourite pastime.

One thing I have learned is that it is far more enjoyable than house work.

The homework business has well and truly left me but the knitting has not and I hope never will.

I first became machine knitting minded when my friend’s daughter was expecting triplets and I was ambitious enough to knit three baby shawls.

Since then I still have a love of both crafts.

Machine knitting is quicker for sure and I would hate to list the number of times that people have told me that it is cheating. For sure it is not.

Some wonderful articles can be made on the machine that nobody in their right mind would attempt by hand.

Hand knitting is mainly a solitary, but enjoyable, process which of course you certainly

derive pleasure from, and which I still love but if you are lucky as I was to join a machine knitting group the friendship that has grown from this is truly amazing.

Our group was started over thirty years ago by two ladies - Liz James and Pat Kendall. Both very talented ladies with a deep love of all crafts, hand knitting, machine knitting, crocheting, tatting etc. and are only too pleased to assist new members.

Some of our ladies have been members from almost day one and some of the others are fairly new to the craft and new members are more than welcome. This means we have people of different levels in our group and the more experienced are always to help others.

We are a group of about eighteen members and are always looking to welcome new friends to our group.

If I have managed to convince you to have a look at how machine knitting works, please come to one of our regular meetings. There you will see hand knitting and machine knitting as well as a friendly atmosphere and community.

For further information please ring Liz on 9572 7074, Pat 9309 3260 or the other Pat on 9295 2793.

GARDENING WORM WORKSHOP MEGAN DOLLING

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earn about worm farming and the City of Swan’s worm farm subsidy at one of the free Thinking Green workshops in June.

City of Swan Mayor Charlie Zannino said residents and ratepayers who attended one of the worm farm workshops would be eligible for a $100 subsidy on the purchase of a worm farm.

“It comes complete with worms, worm castings and a comprehensive instruction booklet, the worm farms, provided by the City of Swan in partnership with The Worm Shed, are valued at $217, but with the subsidy, can be taken home for $117.

“To claim the subsidy, people do need to attend a workshop, but these are all free workshops.”

Ballajura Ward Councillor, Mel Congerton, who proposed the worm farm subsidy to Council, said the worm farms were a practical way that people could make a difference.

“Worm farming is a simple way of converting food scraps and other organic materials into nutrient-rich products for the garden,” he said.

“A worm farm produces worm castings and ‘worm wiz’ which are natural and non-toxic, and as well as contributing to a thriving garden, worm farms also help to reduce waste, improve soil and protect water quality.”

For more information on worm farming, conditions for the subsidy and dates and times for the workshops, visit http://www.swan.wa.gov.au/ wormfarm

ACTION URGED ON WEEDY WATTLES SAWS AND MOWERS

cnr

Grt Est Hwy & Chipper St, Mundaring

9295 2466

~ Sales ~ Spares ~

Repairs

Shire of Mundaring’s Environmental Officer Justine Shailes points to dried seed pods on a non-native wattle

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esidents in the Shire of Mundaring are encouraged to take swift action in removing non-native wattles before they seed.

Despite the attractive yellow flowers on shrubs such as Flinders Range and Sydney wattles, they are non-native and can pose a huge risk to the environment.

Environment and Sustainability Co-ordinator Toni Burbidge said the plants were commonly found growing in backyards and bushland areas throughout the shire.

“These plants can grow between two and six metres tall and are often used as fast growing hedges,” she said.

“While they grow well in local conditions, they also produce huge quantities of seed and are can displace local native plants that provide food and habitat for local fauna. Of greatest concern is the fire risk they pose due to their habit of forming dense thickets.”

Mrs Burbidge said now was the perfect time to control non-native wattles.

“Due to recent rains, the bright yellow flowers of the wattles are easy to spot. At the moment they don’t have any viable seed pods attached. People can chainsaw large Flinders Range wattles and Sydney Wattles and hand weed smaller seedlings as they appear. Painting the stumps with weed killer prevents them from growing back.

“It is also an excellent time to replace any wattles you remove with local plants, as we come into the winter season.”

Along with Green Army volunteers and its Landcare team, the Shire is working along the Railway Reserves Heritage Trail in sections to remove non-native wattles.

“This is a shire-wide issue and we thank the community for doing their part to improve the local environment and reduce bushfire risk,” Mrs Burbidge said.

Residents requiring assistance identifying plants can contact the Shire on 9290 6651 or refer to the Plants out of Place booklet available at www.mundaring.wa.gov.au.

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COMMUNITY NESTING BOXES HELP

BROKEN TOE NO BARRIER FOR GOLD MEDAL

Simon Cherriman installs nesting boxes on a reserve to assist with environmental recovery following the Mundaring Bushfire in January 2014.

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ildlife in fire-affected areas of the Shire of Mundaring is being given a helping hand following the installation of dozens of nesting boxes.

The Parkerville, Stoneville, Mt Helena Bushfire in January 2014 caused significant environmental damage in the area.

As part of the Shire’s environmental recovery plan, local expert Simon Cherriman constructed and installed the boxes on Shire reserves in the

affected area.

It’s wonderful to see the area regenerating.

The boxes are of various sizes and provide homes for black cockatoos, possums, parrots, bats and pardalotes.

Sadly the fire resulted in the loss of lot of habitat trees in the area where these animals would normally live or breed.

Survey work was carried out prior to the installation to ensure appropriate sized boxes were installed in the reserves.

The nesting box program was supported by funding from the Western Australian Government's State Natural Resource Management Program.

Fire-affected residents have also been given an opportunity to build a nesting box for their own property through workshops conducted by Mr Cherriman.

More than ten participants at the workshop on Sunday 24 May built a box per property. There was a second workshop on Saturday 6 June.

For more information call Community Recovery Project Officer Rachael Bacon on 9290 6628 or email rachaelbacon@mundaring.wa.gov. au.

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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Cerys Bell-Bedlow recently travelled to Sydney and won a gold medal

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Stoneville teen has scored a gold medal for pole vault, after Shire of Mundaring provided financial assistance to help her attend the interstate event.

Cerys Bell-Bedlow (13) was talent-spotted at a gymnastics event last year and began training in pole vault.

After just five months in the sport, she won a gold medal in the U15 division at the Australian Junior Athletics Championships in Sydney earlier this month. Cerys also tied seventh in the U17 division.

The Eastern Hills Senior High School student received Youth Sponsorship from Shire of Mundaring, which contributed $100 to her travel costs.

The teen landed a personal best jump of 2.95m, despite competing with a broken toe. She is now resting from both gymnastics and pole vault for a few weeks, but has big plans for the future.

“I love pole vault and would like to compete in the Olympics at Tokyo,” she said.

“My role model is Nina Kennedy who I train with at the West Australian Institute of Sport. She just broke a world junior record this month. I’d like to break a record myself.”

Cerys is currently registered as an independent athlete and hopes to join the WAIS program in the future.

The Shire’s Youth Sponsorship program helps youths aged eight to 18 who live within the Shire cover costs associated with travelling to sporting, arts, cultural, science or environmental events.

Different levels of sponsorship are available to attend events in rural and remote WA, interstate or overseas.

For more information visit www.mundaring. wa.gov.au/YourCommunity/CommunityGrants.

GARDENING MYTHS ABOUT BIRD BATHS

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yths about bird baths lead to improper, unhealthy and unsafe bird baths that can be more dangerous than helpful to backyard birds.

By understanding the facts about bird baths, it is possible to provide water to birds safely and easily, thereby attracting even more birds to enjoy.

Myth 1: Only a few birds use bird baths, so it's not worth having one.

On the contrary, all birds need a clean water source not just for drinking, but also for bathing and preening. Many birds that are not interested in seed, suet or nectar may still visit backyards where a good bird bath or other backyard water source is available.

water circulating, there are also battery-operated baths or bath accessories that can keep the water moving without a cord. Solar bird bath fountains are another easy option for moving water without cords.

Myth 4: Deeper baths are best for birds because they provide more water.

The optimum depth of a bird bath is 30-90mm deep. Water that is any deeper will be too awkward for even the largest backyard birds to bathe, and very small birds wouldn’t be able to use the bath except at the very edge. Adding a shallow dish in the center of the bath or using rocks to adjust the depth can make a deeper bath more accessible to all backyard birds.

Myth 2: Good quality bird baths are too expensive.

Bird baths come in all shapes, size and price ranges. More elaborate, decorative models can be expensive, but birds don't mind what color, shape or style the bath is so long as it is a good depth and filled with clean, fresh water. Even homemade Myth 5: Dirty baths are okay bird baths or simple dishes can be good choices. since birds drink from dirty puddles anyway.

A dirty bird bath is hazardous to any birds Myth 3: Bird bath fountains are too awkward that drink from it because stagnant, contaminated because they require electricity. water can harbor unhealthy concentrations of While many fountain-style bird baths do bacteria that causes avian diseases. Mosquitoes require a nearby electrical outlet to keep the can also breed in a dirty bird bath.

Myth 6: Cleaning a bird bath is too much trouble because it requires scrubbing.

There are safe chemicals that can be added to a bird bath to keep it cleaner and to make regular cleaning easier, and it is possible to clean bird baths without any scrubbing at all if they are well maintained and cleaned frequently. Taking good care of a bird bath means less frequent cleaning and less necessary scrubbing.

Myth 7: A bird bath is the only way to offer water to backyard birds.

W hile a bird bath is a quick, easy way to add a water feature to attract backyard birds, there are other water sources that can be effective as well, including misters, drippers, fountains and

ponds.

Standing water is adequate for birds, but moving water is better and flowing water is best.

Birds will hear the noise of the water and come to investigate, meaning even more backyard birds to enjoy.

TOGETHER TOWARDS RECOVERY

Mahogany Creek resident Laura Glenn with her daughter with the productive garden plants won at the Together Towards Recovery event

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young family is excited to start growing their own fruit and vegetables after winning a garden prize at a recent Shire of Mundaring event.

Mahogany Creek resident Laura Glenn attended the Together Towards Recovery event which marked one year since the Parkerville, Stoneville, Mt Helena Bushfire.

At the event, people could enter a competition to win one of three bundles of plants on display

- a productive garden, ornamental garden and an Australian contemporary garden.

Mrs Glenn was announced as the lucky winner of the productive garden, with the plants and metal garden planter delivered to her this week. The garden prize included numerous herbs, vegetables and fruit trees.

“This is so exciting. We are new to the area so the garden is a work in progress,” Mrs Glenn said.

“It will help teach our children where food comes from. We try to buy organic where we can as chemicals are a concern, so the more we can grow ourselves the better.”

The Shire President said it was wonderful to see so many people engaging with the garden displays at the event.

“People also had the chance to interact with environmental officers to discuss any issues surrounding replanting after a fire,” she said.

“One of the issues in the fire-affected area is weeds, with the Shire implementing a number of environmental recovery projects.”

The Shire was successful in receiving grant funding from the WA Government’s State Natural Resource Management Program to control blackberry on fire-affected private properties and a number of Shire reserves.

If you are in the fire zone and have concerns about blackberry on your property, you may be eligible for blackberry weed treatment.

For more information please contact Environmental Recovery Officer Debbie Screen on 9290 6665 or email ero@mundaring.wa.gov.au 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. Synhawk Publications Pty Ltd does not accept any liability for any statements or any opinion, or for any errors or omissions contained herein.

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DINING OUT

The Thoughts of an Ageing, Balding Foodie

SOUL TREE CAFÉ

DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE

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s Kermit penetrating remarked 'It's not easy being green'. It used to be worse.

I can readily recall a time when the vegetarian option was the chicken salad with the bits of chicken picked out.

And when you said you were a vegetarian (no vegans in those days) people either patted your arm in a patronising manner or crossed themselves and stepped back hurriedly in case it was catching.

Life has improved, of course, for those seeking a rather healthier lifestyle and diet, but not a whole hell of a lot. There are still very few cafés and restaurants where the food on offer is predominantly meat-free, gluten-free, lactose-free or raw.

There's the Swan Valley Café in Millendon, of course, but nothing in the Perth Hills. Until now. The Soul Tree Café has always offered an alternative diet, but of varying quality.

About a year and a half ago the Soul Tree was taken over by new owners, devoted to nutritious, ethical, low-impact, organic food growing and preparation.

The Soul Tree is not just a café, although it is an excellent one and I'll come back to that. But it is also a venue - a venue for musicians, a venue for story tellers, bush poets, support groups and

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a place for community needs.

There are games and a separate table for the smalls.

The place has been completely renovated, cleaned and reorganised making it possible for a division into a small yoga studio as well. The café has a airiness and air of tranquility that is truly welcoming.

But, its the food that matters, right? Soul Tree is one of the few restaurants that serves Allday Breakfasts - traditional and alternative. All the eggs are free-range and

organic, and we know this to be true because most come from Marilyn and Charl's model farm in Gidgigannup, where they use best farming practice and provide a good deal of the raw materials for the café.

Some fresh, organic, produce is on sale, depending on what's available.

Against the eggs, omelette, toast, pancakes and Tofu I chose the wonderfully named 'Hobbits Hotpot' ($16.50 - not so much Breakfast, as Second Breakfast, the hotpot is a mélange of vegetables - one can make a little game of identifying the ingredients - kidney and Cannellini beans, kale, sweet potato, tomato and more. It's topped with a perfect poached egg and I mean 'perfect'. Best I've ever eaten I think. (If you're vegan, there's a tofu topping instead).

This comes with wood-fired sourdough toast, which is good, but pales against Marilyn's pumpkin bread offered as a side dish ($4.50). I have to tell you that the pumpkin bread on its own is a excellent reason to dine at the Soul Tree.

As well as breakfast there's a range of (ahem) Tree-mendous Burgers, Love and Light

- Meals and Sweet Tree-ts and a n excellent range of drinks - I had the coffee - very superior, but there's tea, milk, red drinks, juices (vegetable and fruit) and smoothies.

There is a great deal to learn about the Soul Tree, but I think the first thing to appreciate is what their stated purpose is: 'To create an awesome space to feed your body, mind and soul.'

I think they have succeeded beyond expectations.

Very Highly Recommended Indeed.

HILLS PEOPLE KATHARINE SUSANNAH PRICHARD (1883-1969) RIC THROSSELL

K

atharine Susannah Prichard was the first Australian novelist to gain international recognition. In 1915, her novel, The Pioneers, won the Hodder and Stoughton All Empire Literature Prize for Australasia.

Fifty years later, with thirteen novels to her credit, five collections of short stories, ten plays, two films, two volumes of verse, translations into thirteen foreign languages and prizes for a novel, a short story and a play, Katherine confessed that she had been born 'with ink in her veins'. A love for writing was her inheritance.

Her father had been Editor of The Fiji Times when she was born at the height of a hurricane.

‘The Child of the Hurricane' the Fijians called her.

It was to be the title of her autobiography, written in 1964 after she had lived through a lifetime of conflict, triumph, tragedy and unremitting struggle for the things she believed in.

The editor's blue pencil was her first literary lesson as a staff journalist on The Melbourne Herald. 'You must make every word count', he taught her. When the opportunity arrived in 1908, she eagerly accepted an assignment in London and Paris.

London brought changes to her own life.

With the laurels of her own literary victory still fresh, she met an Australian Light Horseman at a convalescent hospital for Australian soldiers.

Lieut. Hugo Throssell from Perth had recently been awarded the Victoria Cross for outstanding gallantry at Gallipoli.

Katharine Prichard had returned to Melbourne to a triumphal welcome when the war ended and Captain Hugo Throssell V.C. could also come home to Australia and claim her.

Katharine and her 'Jim' were married in 1919, with bushfire smoke blue in the air around their honeymoon cottage at Emerald in the Dandenong Ranges in Victoria.

Her greatest work was done in the first ten joyous years of their life together at their home at Greenmount. She had determined that her work would celebrate Australia and Australian working people. Her novels fulfilled that pledge.

In The Black Opal she wrote of the opal miners of Lightning Ridge; Working Bullocks told of the timber workers of the karri forests; Coonardoo spoke with warmth and understanding of the Aborigines on the north west cattle stations, as none had written of the native people before; Haxby's Circus told the story of a crippled bareback rider with a travelling circus.

With her own career promising a new future, she became a foundation member of the Communist Party of Australia. Her only child, Ric Throssell, was born in 1922.

Those years of creative achievement were destroyed by the agonies of the Great Depression.

Unable to find work, obsessed by overwhelming debt and a sense of failure, Hugo Throssell V.C. shot himself while she was overseas.

He left a note appealing to the government to

grant a war pension to his widow.

When she could face her private pain, Katharine Prichard returned to her tragic novel of the Depression, Intimate Strangers, which some have wrongly identified with Hugo Throssell's suicide.

After the Second World War, with her political duties in support of the common war effort done, she completed the goldfields trilogy, The Roaring Nineties, Golden Miles and Winged Seeds, as much a social history of the discovery and exploitation of gold in Western Australia, as the story of three generations of men and women of the goldfields.

A stroke that left her unable to move her hand interrupted her last novel, Subtle Flame, dedicated to the peace movement, but she learnt to write again and dictated the last of the novel to the comrade to whom the book was dedicated.

Katharine Susannah Prichard died at her home in Greenmount on 2 October 1969.

Her ashes were scattered on the slopes of Greenmount as she wished. 'Good to think of becoming part of the earth, and perhaps nourishing a wild flower,' she had written.

R eprinted courtesy of the KSP Centre

THE KATHARINE SUSANNAH PRICHARD WRITERS' CENTRE is the oldest of its kind in Australia. The heritage-listed centre is located in the former home of Katharine Susannah Prichard.

The centre hosts a premiere writer-in-residence program with support from the Department of Culture and the Arts. In addition, the Centre runs workshops, author talks, writers' festivals, retreats, manuscript assessments, competitions, and an extensive youth program, all designed to help and encourage writers at all levels of the craft.

KSP - WHAT’S ON WRITING YOUR LIFE STORY WORKSHOP Saturday 13 June 1.00-4.00pm with tea break Are you someone who is often told to write a book about your life? When you tell friends about the things that have happened to you or the things you have seen and done, do they say ‘wow, you should write that down.’

Do you have family stories you’d like to preserve for future generations, or simply a deep burning desire to write about your life, whether for catharsis or because it is worthy of publication?

This KSP workshop is just for you. As you probably know, putting your life onto the page can often be a confusing journey – where do you start? Where do you end?

How much should you reveal and how do you write it so it reads in a compelling way, like a great fiction novel? How do you get it out there when done? Creative non-fiction author, award-winning high school teacher and memoirist, Dr Suzanne Covich, can guide you through the process in a safe and nurturing environment.

Costs: $30 for KSP-members, $45 others (Includes complimentary afternoon tea.)

Blackboy Hill is Calling Anzac Centenary commemorative book – available now Much has been written about the tragedy of the War overseas, but what of the training soldiers received before they left Australian shores?

What were they told, what were they fed, and what environment

did they merge from, which would help forge the legendary spirit of Anzac?

A dedicated group from the KSP Writers’ Centre banded together to find out. Blackboy Hill is Calling is the first ever comprehensive history of WA’s most significant WWI training camp, Blackboy Hill, which trained over 32,000 men.

With the production of this book, the KSP Centre has ensured that its history and significance will never be forgotten.

Limited copies available from KSP at $15.00 each POETRY WORKSHOP WITH RON PRETTY Saturday 18 July 1.00-4.00pm This workshop with KSP’s 2015 Established Writer-in-Residence Ron Pretty, former Director of Five Islands Press and Head of Writing at Wollongong University, will give experienced writers the opportunity to explore the question of dealing with political, social and religious issues in poetry.

Should poetry tackle such issues? If it is to be done, can it be done effectively? Where does poetry end and propaganda begin? Is there any point in ‘preaching to the converted’? A fantastic opportunity to expand your poetry horizons.

Costs: $30 for KSP-members, $45 others For further details or the full itinerary of 2015 events please contact 08 9294 1872 or visit www.kspf.iinet.net.au 9

TOODYAY TOODYAY INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL KRISTEE JOLLY

C

lose enough for a day trip, yet far enough to escape the hustle and bustle of the city...

If this appeals to you then Toodyay is the place to visit this Winter!

As the picturesque hills begin to green and the water in the Avon River begins to flow, why not take the short forty-five minute journey up Toodyay Road for the eleventh annual Toodyay International Food Festival.

Coinciding with the Avon Descent, the world’s longest white water race (more on page 11), the Toodyay International Food Festival is one of five free family fun days held at different vantage points along the river.

The Food Festival is held right on the banks of the river in Stirling Park and Duidgee Park, allowing visitors, race spectators and festival goers the perfect view of the Avon Descent.

Combine all of the thrills and spills from the race with delicious international cuisine and a

fantastic entertainment line-up and you have a free fun filled day for the whole family!

This year the Toodyay International Food Festival will be held on Saturday 1 August from 10.00am til 3.00pm.

Wander your way through dozens of stalls and tempt your taste buds with an incredible range of mouth-watering international cuisine, as well as boutique beer and wine.

With a huge array of stalls to choose from and such variety on offer, the Food Festival caters for even the fussiest of eaters!

Once you have settled into your seat with your tasty treats, watch the main stage come to life with a diverse range of performances inspired by cultures from around the

A Valley

for All

Seasons

O NLY AN HOUR’S DRIVE FROM T H E c i ty

V i s i t w w w. t o o d y a y. c o m f o r f u r t h e r i n f o r m a t i o n o r c a l l ( 0 8 ) 9 5 7 4 2 4 3 5

10

TOODYAY AVON DESCENT

DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE

T

he Avon Descent is unique in many ways, not least in that competitors come from all over Australia and the world to this gruelling two-day event.

Uniquely, too, it features both paddle craft (kayaks, surf skis) and small motor boats over the 124 kilometre route down the Avon and Swan rivers.

The Avon Descent was established in 1972, when a group of Northam residents tested the feasibility of a power boat and canoe river race from Northam to Bayswater by taking a dinghy down the Avon River.

Although the boat became wedged between rocks 35km downstream, the following year the first official running of the Avon Descent began at Northam.

The event attracted forty-nine entries of which only twenty-three finished. Word soon spread about the exciting and difficult water course and the next year saw a hundred and thirty-nine teams enter of which only sixty-three finished.

It is considered to be one of the toughest river races in the world. In the early years of the event there were no rules or safety regulations and people went down the river in anything that could float, including homemade rafts and rubber inner tubes.

Today, however, there are strict safety rules and

Ian and Todd Williamson

globe. Kids of all ages have been catered for too, with free bouncy castles, face painting and balloon twisting running throughout the day.

This entertaining gourmet weekend is set in picturesque Toodyay.

For further information on the event, please call the Toodyay Visitors Centre on (08) 9574 2435 or search for the ‘Toodyay International Food Festival’ on Facebook – make sure you like the page to be kept up to date with the latest event happenings.

Photographs courtesy of the Town of Toodyay

wind their way through the rocks to the finishing line at Guildford on the Swan River.

In the years since, over 25,000 people have competed in the Avon Descent, from novices and families, to World and Olympic Champions.

Many competitors take part year after year and parent and child combinations are not uncommon. Ian Williamson, for example, Legend of the Avon Descent, has successfully competed in thirty two Descents, achieving a top three finish on thirteen occasions, and with son Todd, as a father and son regulations which include a compulsory racing team are the holders of the course record swimming test. There has only been one fatality in the ten HP Sport category. in the history of the event.

Ian has competed in the Murray River The first leg of the race begins at a concrete Marathon and is active in encouraging overseas chute at the weir at Northam. and Interstate participation.

Historically this starting line has claimed This year the race is being held over the the many victims, however weekend of the 1st and 2nd August. a concrete chute was built in 2003 to make the start less hazardous.

As the race proceeds entrants face hazards including tea trees, rapids, meter drops and rocks. In some years fog has reduced visibility to less than ten meters making the descent even more hazardous.

Day one ends at Cobblers Pool where all entrants camp overnight in a paddock along the river bank.

The second day sees the contestants shoot the rapids at Bells Falls and 11

CHEF-ADVENTURER SWISS CUCKOO It must have influenced me somewhat as I ZURCHER GESCHNETZELTES immediately had a shower, cleaning off at least (CLOCK) LAND two days of dust from hitching, which according INGREDIENTS

BRENDAN MURPHY to my diary cost us a whole pound, which as it happened was also the price of a much more important pint of beer, (which was 35 pence in Britain at the time).

This shocking discovery suggested a new dimension to the scenic beauty and cleanliness of Switzerland, it was expensive, and especially for an unemployed back-packer! always was a dreamer. And this However, for now, it was statement was confirmed August, the sun was shining, when I was a kid, as my Dad I was with an old mate backused to say that I lived in ‘Cloud packing together and glowing Cuckoo Land!’ with a suntan, that was earned Wonder where that is, I must hitching on the roads of France, have dreamed, because many years and further more a night out in later I headed into the Alps to Geneva was ahead of us. find out!

We especially liked it around Switzerland is one of Europe’s Lake Geneva and the famous smallest countries but within huge Geyser or Jet d’Eau around lies some of the most beautiful the ‘Statue of the Breeze’. We scenery in the world! It also hold sat around there for hours; it was a reputation of serving some fine such a beautiful sight, with a shadow cuisine. of the Alps in the background. That was Think of succulent pungent cheese until the wind changed and we got drenched. and winter warming Cheese Fondue, Next time maybe we should not pay for delicate wafer thin slices of smoked a shower, but head there for a free one beef, tasty Rosti potatoes and Gougere instead! pastries to name just a few dishes. One

In the end, we lasted an awesome ten can ski in the morning then sunbathe days in a country I got to love, despite on the same ski slopes over lunch, the expense. From Geneva we hitched to whilst sipping a warming Appenzeller Montreux further along Lake Geneva aperitif. I know this to be true as I did it!

I recorded in my diary that ‘it was the cleanest where the snow capped Alps came more in focus country in Europe’ that I explored originally back and beckoned to us to go there. in 1980. One day, I watched a postman pick up his So we just had to splash out on a train ticket mail, then polish the post box! Can you imagine as it became too difficult to hitch into the Bernese seeing that back at home? They would probably Oberland, which is the area around two more lakes and the valleys of the Bernese Alps. send the Postie on long service leave!

And do I need to mention the famous creamy The language changed to German and we chocolate? I nearly became a ‘Chocoholic’ when I continued to bed down for the night wherever we lived there! Chocolate originated in Mexico, but could find from station benches to youth hostels. it was the ingenious Swiss who combined it with One of the great things about hitch-hiking (to me) is that anything could happen and you can their creamy Alpine milk.

When I first set foot on Swiss soil, it was from hit the Jackpot if you are ‘picked up’ by the right France to Geneva with the help of my thumb. person.

Observant readers will recall my past stories in This happened on the way to Zurich when Belgium and Holland in my Apprentice travelling a Swiss Air hostess stopped to give us a lift and days, when I hitched around the Europe to escape then put us up for three nights in their deluxe the rather long dole queue in England at the time. apartment in a little town called Glattbrugg.

My plan to hitch around Europe brought Honestly, we had gone from one extreme to forth a typical reaction from my Dad who quickly another, from sleeping on station benches and reiterated what he’d always thought; “You live in eating ham and cheese sandwiches to a comfy double bed in an apartment and fed on the very cloud cuckoo land you do!”

Well, maybe so, (my school teachers probably best of Swiss Cuisine! agreed as I had received many a clip around the We feasted on classic Swiss dishes like Fondue, ear hole as I dreamed away in the classroom), Gougere, Spatzle, Steak Bearnaise and the very but off I went and I even returned with a Swiss local Zurich dish; Zurcher Geschnetzeltes, (this months recipe and is a bit like a Strogonoff), Cuckoo Clock as a present for my dad!

In those days my only knowledge of this served with potato Rosti. country was cheese with holes in, very nice Reluctantly we soon had to move on to a new chocolate, those dreamy Cuckoo clocks and a country, but before we continued our trip into belief that only the rich had Swiss Bank Accounts. Germany, we explored Zurich and I bought that I just loved Geneva, walking around in awe. I cuckoo clock, which incidentally I still have in my shed in WA. mean this place was CLEAN. Cuckoo Land Indeed Dad!

I

12

500g Veal (or use Beef) steak 40ml butter 20ml oil 100g sliced button mushrooms Salt & Black Pepper 70g of shallots or onion finely diced 100 ml Cream Juice of half of Lemon 100ml *demi glace 1/2 teaspoon paprika

METHOD 1. Cut meat into strips approximately 5 cm long and 1 cm square.

2. Heat 20g butter and the oil in a sauté pan, season the veal and fry quickly to colour leaving slightly underdone. Remove and keep on one side.

3. Melt the other Butter in same sauté pan. Add shallots and cook without colour.

4. Add the Cream and reduce by half.

5. Add the Demi, paprika and veal and reheat 6. Correct the seasoning and finish with lemon juice 7. Serve with Rosti or Rice Pilaff * Demi glace is a rich brown sauce or gravy made in large amounts in commercial kitchens. You can use a convenience powder from your local store, or use your left over roast beef gravy!

‘Cloud Cuckoo Land’ comes from The Birds, a play by Aristophanes, in which Tereus helps Mr. Trusting and Mr. Hopeful erect a perfect city in the clouds, to be named Cloud Cuckoo Land.

POETRY WORRY SERPENTINE JOE

O

h such sweet moments we do waste while we fret and presume in

haste that that precious one for whom we care will oh so soon just not be there But as the hour is not ours to say nor who will first be gone away and as each day we worry through we find it has just not come true

So enjoy the days that come along and share your dreams with that someone and beam that smile of pure delight that turns those dull days into bright

COMMUNITY HISTORY RAMBLE

E

dgecombe Brothers Winery is one of the oldest wineries continuously in the same family hands in the Swan Valley and with strong links with the local community.

The brothers concerned have all passed and the winery and attendant businesses have moved on a generation. Alf Edgecombe is happy to talk about the family and has been prevailed upon to talk about the family and the local history in an event that has been called a 'History Ramble'.

I was fortunate enough to be invited to one of the first and I'd like to recommend them to you. The way it works is this - you all (limited numbers for comfort) assemble at 10:30am at Edgecombe Brothers in Gnangara Road and have a steaming cup of coffee and an Anzac biscuit or two before setting out at a very leisurely pace over the road to one of the fields of grapes.

Alf is very knowledgeable about the land, grapes and viticulture and was full of snippets of information and with ready answers to all our questions.

We had a look at the asparagus beds - absolutely nothing to see at the moment, but in two months time - oh my! September is the start of the asparagus season and tonnes and tonnes are taken off.

We meandered comfortably down the rows of vines across West

DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE

Swan Road and up the gentle incline of Henry Street to All Saints Church.

On the right hand side there is an alpaca farm and the gentle animals looked at us with the calm, uncurious, equanimity of their kind.

A pause for 'oohs' and 'aahs' and into the quiet precincts of All Saints, shaded by huge trees and seeped in the history of the Colony. The church marks the high point of Captain Stirling's exploration and where services had been read since 1830, less than a year since the foundation of the Colony.

The building, the oldest church in Western Australia was built by Richard Edwards between 1838 and 1840 and consecrated in January 1841.

The cool, dim interior breathes the solemnity of worship in was is essentially a chapel for the local families - the BarrettLennards, Edgecombes and others. The handsome lychgate was donated by patriarch George

This page appears only in the digital issue

Edgecombe to mark the centenary of the settlement in 1929.

If you are at all interested in the Edgecombes and the area, you should have a look at John Edgecombe’s autobiography Banker John.

A slow walk brought us back to Edgecombes just in time for a wine tasting and a tasting platter to share. I have spoken elsewhere of the food served at Edgecombes but this was well up to standard.

The ramble, morning tea and lunch costs $58 per head (weekdays) or $70 for weekends.

If there's time Alf will also give you a quick demonstration of how to prune a grape vine and everyone who attends gets a selection of grape vine cuttings to take home and plant so that you can grow your own.

Very Highly Recommended.

13

STYLE BY KIRSTY TOP 5 STYLE HABITS TO START IN YOUR 20S

W

KIRSTY NOAKES

e’ve all got bad habits, and let’s face it, for some of us they’re our most endearing qualities. But don’t be fooled – bad style habits aren’t cute.

They’re just ugly, frustrating and sometimes even downright tacky. Take these top five tips and start a style journey that will work for you for the rest of your life.

And don’t despair. If you’re over twenty it’s never too late to turn your style fails into style hails!

Never have underwear showing through your clothes. Ensure your underwear is the right colour for your garment.

You really do feel sexier when you put gorgeous, well-fitted, matching underwear on first thing in the morning. And surprise, surprise, when it fits better it feels better.

You won’t be fiddling with straps and knickers all day long. What a relief!

1. TRY, TRY, TRY AGAIN Every Stylist will tell you, over and over again, you must always try before you buy. I know the change rooms are small, the curtains don’t close and the lighting is terrible. But just be brave, take a breath and head on in there.

Stop throwing away good money on bad clothes just because you didn’t take two minutes to try something on. And while you’re in there, be tough on that garment but gentle on yourself.

If it’s too tight, ill fitting or bulgy just put it back. If you don’t absolutely Love It in the change room, leave it in the change room!

5. GET A GOOD GIRLFRIEND

I mean a Really Good Girlfriend. The kind that will tell you when there’s lettuce in your teeth.

The kind that will tuck your tag in at the back.

The kind who will tell you that man really is no good for you.

The kind who will tell you your butt does look big in that, and that your butt is not only big but beautiful too, wink and smile, and pour you another chardonnay.

There’s a second part to this habit. If you want to have a good girlfriend, you have to be a good girlfriend.

Don’t let your bestie leave the house all raggedy looking. Take care of her the way she takes care of you. Remember, there’s no need to be harsh about it.

Check yourself and your opinion, if it’s not nice, kind and true then you’re not being a good girlfriend.

body shape you can look six to ten kilos heavier. I don’t know anyone who wouldn’t want to look thinner and taller without doing anything but wearing the right shaped clothes.

3. DON’T BE A FASHION VICTIM Every time I see 2. GET IN TOUCH WITH THE the word ‘trending’ in REAL YOU a fashion spread my eyes We are all different shapes and roll backwards. The retail industry is sizes, and hence, shapes and sizes in tempting us to want clothes based on what their clothing make a huge difference.

If you’re wearing the wrong clothes for your buyers purchased this season – not by what looks great on us!

Designers like Alex Perry shudder when asked if they’re inspired by trends. They draw their inspiration internally and don’t look at other people’s collections to create their own. We shouldn’t look at what everyone else is wearing to create our own wardrobe either.

We all have our own Style Personality, and once you understand yours, you will know exactly what kind of clothes suit you, your lifestyle, your budget and your wardrobe.

When you pair that with understanding your body shape, you’ll be able to create a wardrobe that is the envy of your friends and family, that you love pulling looks from every day, for every occasion.

4. UNDER INVEST Nothing ruins a stunning outfit more quickly than ill-fitting underwear. Bulges and bumps in the wrong places make it look like you have extra pieces of anatomy.

Get your bra professionally fitted, and ensure you’re wearing the right size and shape of underwear.

14

-oOo Always remember that fashions will come and go. It’s recycled throughout the decades. There are only so many ways you can wear a pants leg!

However, true style, once you’ve found yours, will last forever. It’s like Audrey Hepburn.

Timeless. And like a good girlfriend, priceless.

COMMUNITY BUYING TIME THANK YOU

GOOD NEIGHBOUR SUNDAY NADINE BRAZIL

G

Y

ou may recall reading in the May issue about the Charity Lunch “Buying Time” organised by Chantal at Darlington Estate. It was a complete success and we have received a letter rom her to thank you all: “There aren't enough words to express the gratitude I feel when I think back and reflect on the last eight weeks of the Buying Time fundraising campaign to raise funds and awareness for Breast Cancer Care WA and McGrath Foundation Nurses.

“It was exceptional. From the local people who attended the lunch, bought raffle tickets, bid on the silent auctions and donated on the day

to the incredibly generous sponsors and local businesses who donated, to everyone who gifted their precious time, energies and services.

“Those of you who shared our invitation on Facebook, those who couldn't attend on the day but donated via the website and those of you who sent through your best wishes and energising enthusiasm to me through your messages - I literally could not have done it without you all.

Together we raised $3508.

Big big hugs and un grand merci à vous tous.

Chantal Vanderhaeghen Director

FROM SEED TO PLATE ROXY CALLAHAN

A

s the obesity The course is epidemic spreads in called From Seed To Australia there is a small, Plate and is designed to but growing, movement 'teach you everything towards healthier eating you need to know about and living. raw food preparation.

Many would perhaps From the basics to the like to eat better but the complex details.' thought of nut cutlets The course will and a lightly boiled also teach you how to lettuce leaf is rather off'Grow your own food putting. and Medicine'.

Well, good news, Leesa Caldwell times have moved on will cover the topic since the 1920s and now of growing food and there are excellent meals medicinal plants from and regimens for all seed, cuttings and purposes - vegetarian, division. She will also go vegan, lactose or gluten through the medicinal intolerance as well as value of the food you those who just want to grow. eat better. a Leesa from The Greenhouse Organics Julie, The trick is to get naturopath, will teach someone who knows you the nutritional value what they're doing and has kept pace with of your food and how to convert the raw materials developments and trends to assist you. into the most delicious meals, smoothies and The Swan Valley Cafe has for some years snacks. now been a haven for those who prefer natural The six week course costs $800 and runs organic and raw foods and Julie from the Swan from the 13th of June.

Valley Cafe has joined forces with Leesa from The Places are limited and booking is essential Greenhouse Organics to run a six week course on with either Julie on 0437 880 161 or Leesa on raw food.

0400 239 258.

ood neighbours look after each other, and as the winter chills bite, many people will be struggling with inadequate food, clothing and shelter.

The Anglican Parish of Swan in partnership with Anglicare is seeking to reach out and help these people with our annual Good Neighbour Sunday event.

Come along on Sunday the 21st of June and help us support the Anglicare Winter Appeal, for those of our neighbours doing it tough this winter.

We are inviting the community to bring along donations of non-perishable food, blankets, warm clothes and/or cash.

Donations can be dropped off at either church on the day, and you are welcome to join us for a special service led by Bishop Jeremy James.

Everyone dresses up in hats, scarves, beanies, ponchos, ugg boots, blankies, whatever it takes to keep you warm and keep it fun!

You will be greeted on arrival by friendly faces, a blazing fire and a cup of hot chocolate.

Afterwards everyone is invited to join us for a hot and tasty morning tea.

If you are unable to make it, but would still like to donate, please contact us on 9274 2661.

Services are conducted at 7:30am (All Saints, Henry Street, Henley Brook) and 9:30am (St. Mary’s, Yule Avenue, Middle Swan).

Good Neighbour Sunday look forward to sharing the day with you, your family and friends.

See poster on the back page

15

ENTERTAINMENT BASIN STREET BLUES DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE

I

n 1897, the City Council of New Orleans in Louisiana led by Alderman Sidney Story, after having carefully examined the red light districts in Holland and Germany, decreed a thirty-eight block area of the city as a neighbourhood in which prostitution would not be illegal.

Officially designated 'The District', it soon became widely known as 'Storyville', after Alderman Story, who wrote the rule book.

The intention was to 'contain and control' prostitution, which was illegal everywhere else in Louisiana.

The area catered for every taste and perversion and became immensely popular for all classes from those who frequented the cheap 'cribs' to the elegant mansions along Basin Street.

It was an area where black and white mixed and the demand for entertainment saw Jazz flourish and many a Jazz great worked in Storyville.

Photographer E J Bellocq took a series of photographs of prostitutes in Storyville.

With the coming of the First World War the Navy Department pressed for the closure of Storyville against the wishes of the Council, but at midnight on the 10th October 1917, after twenty years, Storyville closed and ended an era of tolerance, innovative music and a way of life.

John Beaton, scriptwriter, playwright, Jazz musician, lecturer and doyen of local politics has written a musical about the last few days of Storyville called Basin Street Blues which is the next production at Marloo

Theatre. on the 17th July at Marloo Theatre, 20 Marloo

The title is also Road, Greenmount and runs until the 8th that of a Jazz standard August 2015. written more than ten years after the closure, but reflecting it’s times and culture.

It has been recorded many times, there is a version recorded by Louis Armstrong, who was born and grew up in Storyville.

The musical is being directed

by renowned professional director Aarne Neeme AM, who has said of the difficulties of directing a play: “I never think of it as difficulties, rather a series of challenges, that you wrestle with, in order to find the clearest and most graceful solutions.”

Basin Street Blues opens 16

The Idle Thoughts of an Idle Mind

THE UMBRELLA UPRISING

GLENNYS MARSDON

A

s winter approaches and the rain intensifies I find my thoughts turning to thunderstorms, nature’s answer to a Steven Spielberg movie.

Who doesn’t like watching the sky light up as the dull rumble comes closer, especially if you’re wrapped in a fluffy blanket and holding a steaming Kahlua infused hot chocolate?

The other day as I pushed my food laden shopping trolley back to my car, the lightning nearby looked less picturesque and more sinister.

As the storm grew louder I counted the seconds between the flash of light and boom of thunder.

I remembered learning at school that should this be less than thirty seconds then the threat is high. Like an expectant mother timing her contractions I made it to fifteen seconds before the boom came. Time for action, but what?

According to National Geographic most victims survive a lightning attack, which is good to know. Most come away with burns, nerve damage or cardiac arrest. Somewhat less reassuring as I grappled with the metal shopping trolley whose fourth wheel had decided at that moment to stage a coup.

By now we all know not to use a landline telephone during a lightning storm, and if you’re like me you may have a vague memory of being told to keep away from doors and windows.

You may also have scurried through the house naked in the middle of the night unplugging your computer and television on more than one occasion. No? Just me then.

What I didn’t know was that you shouldn’t wash your hands or take a shower, not my first priority during a thunderstorm I must say. I’m far more likely to be found hiding under copious bedcovers with a pillow over my head, rather

THE IDLER than divesting myself of all balance, convertibles do not my clothes and standing provide the same protection. naked under running water.

The least helpful I’m also unlikely to don advice I read was to avoid bathers and go for a swim, underground pipes. Surely something else to be avoided the actions required to at all costs apparently. discover said pipes would Nor should you decide give rise to far greater to do the dishes … shame. problems, like the policeman And any sudden compulsion appearing by your side to load the washing machine enquiring about the pickaxe or dryer should also be in your right hand. suppressed … double shame.

Less conclusive The males of the species was the information about should refrain from escaping umbrellas.

Dickens’ Sairey Gamp, Water to … The Shed. Especially if Colour

From the initial Sketch by Kyd, c. 1899. it’s made of metal and has palm leaves used to protect drainpipes or wiring that Ancient Egyptian kings, connects to the ground. the umbrella has become an essential modern Similarly any two year olds dropping to the day item. They’ve even morphed from being a street for an ill-timed strop, should be picked up functional appliance to a fashion statement in their immediately before the wire mesh in the concrete own right. Where would an English gentleman be has time to acknowledge their presence. without a trusty black umbrella by his side?

A car with a metal roof can offer some As I watched on from the safety of my car, I protection evidently, as long as the windows are wondered whether the innocuous umbrella was not all it seemed. They’ve certainly been known to show a sinister side, turning inside out at the most inopportune moment, or tumbling down the beach hell bent on spearing a recalcitrant toddler or cocker spaniel.

Outside the car people thrust their umbrellas skyward.

Could there be some evil plan, devised by the Demographers of the world perhaps, who realizing the planet cannot sustain ongoing population growth, have spent years lulling us into a false sense of security about the humble umbrella.

They’ve trained us to raise this object high in the air making us the tallest objects around during a lightning storm … an object made of metal. Are our actions tantamount to raising a red rag to a bull?

As I waited for the storm to pass I threw caution to the wind and used my mobile to Google umbrellas and storms. Within seconds the National Geographic site confirmed that an umbrella can increase the chances of being struck by lightning if it makes the holder the tallest object in the area. Proof. up and you don’t touch the metal sides. In an Can I suggest that to thwart this evil plan the example of the universe attempting to restore next time you find yourself in a thunderstorm with an umbrella thrust above your head, squat down like a mushroom.

If you’re in a rush to get to a Board meeting or first date, keep walking in this half squat duck-like position. Sure, it might take a bit of getting used to and you might feel a bit silly at first, but have you ever heard of a duck being hit by lightning?

Alternatively find the tallest man holding an umbrella and follow him. Okay so you may end up in a bordello instead of a barbers shop but at least you won’t end up in the morgue.

Just a thought.

17

BOOKS REVIEWS Title: Author: Publisher: Reviewer:

BANKER JOHN

FOR SALE

Copies are for sale of this charming autobiography written by local identity John Edgecombe. $20 plus postage and handling.

Phone: 9296 7780 Email: edgecombejn@eftl.net.au Web: www.swanmagazine.com.au/books

Have a book to publish? v Family History v Non-Fiction v Autobiography v Biography v Fantasy v Fiction v Poetry Get expert advice on layout, editing, costings, publishing and marketing from professional editors First consultation free Free quotes

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18

Just You Wait Jane Tesh Poisoned Pen Press Karen Treanor

ane Tesh has revived the once-popular custom of chapter headings. She uses lines from My Fair Lady to good effect in this amusing and charming story from Grace Street, home of several people who could have come from the Central Casting “character actor” pool.

This is the fourth book in the series and the first one that I’ve read—although I am certainly going to seek out the others.

The big yellow house at 302 Grace Street is owned by John Camden, who was given it by a man he saved from financial ruin by his disconcerting ability to see things in the lives of other people. For himself he can’t see very clearly, but for others, Cam has a startling psychic ability.

His fianceé Ellin works on a cable TV station show that focuses on the paranormal and she’d like Cam to make some money with this gift so they can get married, move into a more respectable house, and leave all his weird friends behind.

One of Cam’s tenants and friends is private eye David Randall. Randall asks Cam to help him find a missing old lady, amateur actress Viola Mitchell.

They visit Viola’s house and almost at once Cam tells Randall and the sceptical police officer Jordan Finlay to check out the cellar. They do, and Viola’s body is discovered buried there. Cam can’t ‘see’ the murderer, but he knows Viola was poisoned and that there’s wine involved.

It becomes apparent that the local production of My Fair Lady is tied up with the murder, and this worries David, whose girlfriend Kary is in the cast.

Against the wishes of the professional investigator - when did you ever read about a policeman who welcomed the help of an amateur sleuth? - David pokes around and finds there are connections between his new client; a homeless dog; the murder; and the past history of the amateur thespians.

Meanwhile, the wedding plans get more and more complicated as Ellin’s two sisters and controlfreak mother step in; Cam is ready to elope if only he could talk Ellin into it. He’s not sure if he should get married at all, because his paranormal powers have taken on a new and frightening aspect.

It all comes to a head at the beauty pageant where the cosmetics are being provided by David’s client, and there’s a very satisfying final chapter where all the loose threads are tied up nicely.

A thoroughly enjoyable read - highly recommended.

Title: Author: Publisher: Reviewer:

Dying For The Past T J O’Connor Midnight Ink Karen Treanor

his is the second in what promises to be a popular series. I enjoyed the first one, which dealt with how Detective Oliver Tucker was killed and then helped solve his own murder with the help of his widow, his former partner, and his dog.

Oh, and with the added help of the ghost of his great-grandfather, “Doc”.

This new adventure starts with a murder in an old gangster’s mansion.

Stephanos Grecco is a mystery man with deep pockets and no known past; when he’s shot on the ballroom floor it puts a crimp in the gala fundraiser Tuck’s widow Angela is running.

Things get worse when all the money raised vanishes, along with one of the waiters who was hired at the last minute.

Tuck starts investigating—just because a detective is dead doesn’t mean he can’t do what he was trained for, right?

He meets two ghosts at Vincent House, Vincent Calaprese who once owned it back in the heyday of speakeasies and bathtub gin, and his moll, Sassy.

Vincent gives him some good bourbon, Sassy gives him the eye, and Tuck discovers that dead people can have bad things happen to them.

Vincent want him to find someone named Ben and also find a notebook that Vincent wrote down a lot of incriminating information in.

If Tuck doesn’t do this, he may discover just how prescient the old artists like Hieronymous Bosch were in their depictions of the afterlife.

The story become very complicated, with danger lurking in the cellars under Vincent house for Tuck’s widow, her mentor Andre, and Tuck’s old partner Bear Braddock, not to mention something really nasty in wait for his great-grandfather’s ghost if Tuck doesn’t find the missing book.

An assortment of live—more or less—FBI agents, local law enforcement personnel and a very scary Senate candidate not to mention Russian agents come and go throughout the story, but it’s down to Tuck and his old partner to bring the criminals to justice.

This is a really entertaining book; a ghost detective is not a new premise but it’s handled in a refreshing and amusing manner.

BOOKS AND WRITING NATIONAL WRITING COMPETITION GAYLE MALLOY AND ROBYN NEGUS

T

he Peter Cowan Writers’ Centre Inc. (PCWC) now invites entries for the 2015 Trudy Graham-Julie Lewis Literary Award for Prose.

The competition honours prose writer Julie Lewis, our Patron from 1995-2003 and OAM recipient in the 1992 Australian Honours List; and Trudy Graham, PCWC Life Member and PCWC President from 1995–97.

The award is an Australia-wide competition with an Open Theme.

Prose writers may submit fiction or nonfiction prose entries up to 2000 words per entry.

Entries for the competition must be unpublished works, not on offer for

PCWC’s website at: www.pcwc.org.au and queries regarding the competition may also be directed to the centre on (08) 9301 2282 or by e-mailing cowan05@bigpond.com.

G Trudy

r aham

publication before the announcement of the prize winners, and not have been recognised in any other competition.

PCWC President, Susan Stevens said “The award provides a great opportunity for experienced and emerging writers alike to achieve recognition for their writing.”

Last year’s judge, John Senczuk, a highly regarded director, writer and dramaturg, noted that the three prize winners were 'typified by the rare ability of the writer to implant an idea and a situation so suggestively, so evocatively that the reader actively completes the story.’

Prize money for the award consists of $400 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third place. The competition also caters for youth with the 'Judge’s Encouragement Award for Youth’ to support young writers 12-18 in their first steps towards a literary career.

The centre will also award four, Highly Commended Certificates and four, Commended Certificates.

The competition will close on 31 July 2015 – entries must be post-marked by this date.

Further information, guidelines and entry forms for the competition are available on

IN BRIEF Prose:​ Up to 2000 words maximum per entry.

(Fiction or Non-fiction) Theme:​ Open Age:​ Open Eligibility:​ Entrants must be currently residing in Australia Prizes:​ 1st place $400​

2nd place $200​

3rd place $100 ​ $100 Judge’s Encouragement Award for Youth (12-18 years) ​ Four “Highly Commended” certificates ​ Four “Commended” certificates Entry Fee: ​ $15.00 for one entry, ​$25.00 for two entries, $35.00 for three entries Closing Date: Friday 31 July 2015 (entries must be post-marked by this date).

Julie L

ewis

ABOUT THE PETER COWAN WRITERS CENTRE

F

ounded in 1995 in Western Australia, the non-profit organisation, Peter Cowan Writers’ Centre began operation as the Northern Writers’ Association.

Early in 1998, Edith Cowan University set aside a place for the centre in the newly reconstructed Edith Cowan House (pictured above) at its Joondalup campus.

The centre is named after Peter Cowan, one of WA’s most esteemed writers and academics.

The grandson of Australia’s first female parliamentarian, Edith Cowan, he was renowned for his short stories, a tradition perpetuated by the PCWC. He died in 2002.

For further information about Peter Cowan Writers Centre see the website: www.pcwc.org.au/ 19

NEW PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION MEGAN DOLLING

T

he City of Swan is inviting joyful entries from keen photographers across Perth with the launch of the City of Swan Photography Competition 2015.

City of Swan Mayor, Charlie Zannino, said the City’s photographic competition is themed ‘Joy’ and encouraged people to capture and share their joy in the City.

“The City of Swan Photography Competition is open to people right across Perth and we invite photographers to share their joy of life in the City of Swan in return for some great prizes and exposure,” he said.

“The first prize will be $4,000 and a photo on the cover of the City’s 2016 calendar.

“There will be eleven runners up prizes of $250 along with a photo featured in the 2016 calendar and a special Fitzgerald Creative Award for $300 worth of fine art printing.”

North Ward Councillor, Kevin Bailey, said all styles of photography are welcome as long as they have been taken in the City and meet the competition requirements.

“We are expecting a large variety of photographs including landscapes, still life, portraits, nature and active group shots,” he said.

“The topic of joy means different things to different people, so we are open to see what keen photographers across Perth can come up with to celebrate our region.

“We are also asking for a description of each photo to be provided with the entry so that we can understand how the photographer found joy in the City and in the picture.”

Terms and conditions and entry forms are available on the City’s website now at www.swan. wa.gov.au/photocomp People are encouraged to follow the City of Swan Photography Competition on Facebook to keep up to date with the competition progress.

Entries close September 1, 2015.

ART AND ARTISTS MAC IN JUNE SUE MORLEY

T

he heARTlines Children's Literature and Book Illustration Festival is in full swing at MAC, with the exhibition and workshop program engaging hundreds of school students already.

The public program for heARTlines kicks off this month so big kids can have the opportunity to meet some of the cream of WA’s authors and illustrators crop too!

Some events are already fully booked so don’t miss out on a chance to Meet the Makers.

HEARTLINES CHILDREN'S LITERATURE & BOOK ILLUSTRATION FESTIVAL 15 May – 28 June heARTlines brings literature and art enrichment to the eastern edge of Perth with curator and author Cristy Burne inviting Jen Banyard, AJ (Amanda) Betts, Wendy Binks, Karen Blair, Raewyn Caisley, Kelly Canby, Gabriel Evans, Deb Fitzpatrick, James Foley, Mark Greenwood, Kylie Howarth, Kyle Hughes-Odgers, Frané Lessac, Patricia Negus, Mark Pardoe, Den Scheer and Briony Stewart to participate in the festivals events.

By special arrangement with The Lit Centre, artworks by Terry Denton from Jandamarra (author Mark Greenwood) are also on display.

As well as the Great (kid’s) Book Swap, Gallery 2 hosts a viewing of all the amazing animated results from Steven Aiton’s recent residency – if you created an animation, bring your friends to see your work on the big screen and see what fantastical stories others created too.

lovely warm, mulled wine and nibbles and a bit of informal mingling with the session’s presenters.

Bookings are essential.

NEW JOB OPPORTUNITY Are you interested in joining the dynamic team here at MAC? We are currently accepting applications for a Community Arts Project Officer.

To find out more, visit MAC’s website MAC CLOSED DATES Please note that MAC will be closed from 29 June until 10 July for stocktake.

MY-ART THERAPY WORKSHOPS Saturday 27 June 2015 12- 3pm at MAC Transpersonal Art Therapist and owner of MyArt therapy, Dr José van den Akker (Ph.D; M.Ed. St; Adv.Dip.Trans.Art.Ther.) is offering a group art therapy workshop where you can experience what art therapy is about, and also gain some insights into a particular issue or incident.

For inquiries and to book please call José on 0429 547 515.

WEST AUSTRALIA NUCLEAR FREE ALLIANCE YELLOWCAKE COUNTRY EXHIBITION WANFA are looking for artists to be involved in the Yellowcake Country exhibition from 15th - 31st of August 2015 at the Moores Building Contemporary Art Gallery in Fremantle.

The exhibition presents an eclectic mix of works representing environment, industrialisation, peace and resistance. For this MEET THE MAKERS great opportunity to have your work exhibited Sunday 21 June (1 - 2.30pm) $5 suitable for 16+ at MAC (including afternoon while supporting a great cause please get in touch on 0415 380 808 or check out www.wanfa.org.au/ tea) Join the heARTlines curator Cristy Burne art. and some of the festival’s artists and authors, DISCLAIMER as they discuss and demonstrate their passion The information in this publication is of for literature. For this session, you will meet a general nature. The articles contained renowned illustrators, James Foley and Frané herein are not intended to provide a Lessac and authors, Mark Greenwood, Cristy complete discussion on each subject Burne and Amanda (AJ) Betts as they share their and or issues canvassed. Synhawk knowledge, stories and inspirations.

Publications Pty Ltd does not accept any The session will conclude with an illustrator liability for any statements or any opinion, duel… be prepared with some exciting adjectives or for any errors or omissions contained and see what happens next! Then relax over a herein.

Volunteering - ordinary people performing extraordinary tasks to help others There are so many opportunities for you to help those in our communities!

Call us now on 9278 9690 to make an appointment. For more information, contact: Swan Volunteer Resource Centre (Midland) 10am-4pm, Monday to Friday (closed Wednesdays) swanvolunteers@swan.wa.gov.au www.swanvolunteers.com.au 20

Ellenbrook Pop Up Volunteer Centre 9297 9600 10am-3pm, Wednesdays

ART AND ARTISTS NEW PHOTOGRAPHIC STUDIO AND ART GALLERY LAUNCHED

City of Swan Mayor Charlie Zannino opening the new studio (L to R: Megan Ziersch, Kate Sanders-Tye, Charlie Zannino and Olivia Patmore)

T

he Swan Valley has been home to Verge Studio Photography for six years, and a gala event saw the launching of their newly renovated studio space and art gallery. Owner and photographer, Kate Sanders-Tye, said the event was a huge success.

“I’m so overwhelmed by the generosity and support of our clients and friends. We’ve worked tirelessly in recent months to design and renovate the space, and couldn’t have made it to this point without these wonderful people.”

Kate is an internationally award-winning photographer, with over twenty years experience, who recently won Top 100 Influential People of Perth, with Nifnex.

“I started this business almost seven years ago and we’ve since grown to become a successful enterprise, so it’s a real thrill to be launching our new premises,” said Ms Sanders-Tye. “Being a small business, it can be difficult to sustain constant growth, but we’ve based our business on being genuine, real people, and providing great value for excellent quality work.”

“Small business really is the backbone of the Swan Valley economy and it’s important for us all to support one another. I want to thank Taylor’s Art and Coffee House for welcoming us into their family and giving us so much support.”

Opened by Mayor Charlie Zannino, Verge Studio’s Red Carpet Launch was held at their new premises, behind Taylor’s Cafe, and was attended by over 100 VIPs, who were very excited to see the new studio revealed.

“Wonderful night. Studio is just brilliant, well done!” Said Kim McGrath, a long-time client of Verge Studio.

Special guest Miss Teen Galaxy 2015 Olivia Patmore also attended the event with her family.

“What a stunning Studio. Congratulations! We felt

very privileged to be invited. You are inspirational women!”

Long-time friend and client, Melanie Decull said she felt empowered after attending the Launch. “Tonight is a testament to the inspirational Kate and Megan, their creative vision is exceptional and reflects their incredible talent and professionalism.”

The new studio has been designed with synergy in mind; combining the style of the natural surrounds at Taylor’s Cafe, with the signature Verge Studio look. The fantastic overall impact creates a captivating ambience of ‘Industrial Chic’ meets ‘Luxury Loft’.

The all-female team at Verge Studio specialises in wedding and boudoir photography, and also love photographing families, kids, pets, maternity, newborns, business portraits and generational portraits!

Swan Magazine publisher Douglas Sutherland-Bruce with ProprietorsKate Sanders-Tye (R) and Megan Ziersch 21

Horses ‘Safe and Sound’ Field day and workshop

Expert presenters and Q&A by Belinda Taylor, Property planning • Horse property management & regulations • Fires & horses the Waroona experience Phil Barrett Leonard, Pasture agronomist • Pasture selection. Management and weed ID • Soil health & soil testing Dr Anne Barnes Vet, Senior Vet • Tour of the Equine Centre at Murdoch University • Keeping your horse “Safe and Sound”

Field day and workshop Murdoch

28 June 2015

9.00am – 3.00pm, lunch included Tickets $25 – Places are limited to 70 guests

Register at www.trybooking.com/HQRZ

All ages welcome!

Proudly supported by

22

POETRY THE GREAT BLUE YONDER TARJA HETTONEN

CHAYENNE

E

asy going Chayenne is extremely intelligent and good at letting her carer know what she wants. She’s also very emotionally in tune with how the people around her are feeling and will stay close and rub up against them if they are feeling blue. She’s playful, amusing and has a mischievous streak. She’ll hide and then pounce out on her carers.

Chayenne was young and very timid when she first came into SAFE’s rescue program. She has been lovingly cared for by a succession of foster carers who have taught her to trust humans.

Three years old now, she is great with children and confident with cat-friendly dogs.

This black beauty sleeps curled up all night on her carer’s bed and loves to sit on the couch for chin rubs. She enjoys climbing and perching up high, surveying the world below. Her carer says that she is one of the easiest cats that she has ever looked after: very cruisy and low maintenance.

A previous carer sometimes travelled for work and Chayenne was quite content to be left alone for a day or two, as long as her food and water was stocked up. She was also being taught to use a human toilet and to walk on a lead, so we think she could learn all sorts of tricks.

Gazing out the window is a favourite pastime of Chayenne’s. Usually she’s content to be inside.

But whenever she’s changed foster homes, she has gone missing for a bit, and then been picked up by the ranger. So it will important that she can be kept securely inside while she settles in.

Chayenne has been vet checked, desexed, microchipped and vaccinated.

Already in love but think she’s too far away?

Not a problem! Her adoption fee includes the flight from Karratha to Perth.

You can feel confident adopting long distance with SAFE as our animals come with a “lifetime guarantee”, which means that if for any reason

they are no longer able to stay in your care we will take them back without hesitation.

If you’d like a lovely natured, emotionally attuned but fuss free cat to join you in your home, contact SAFE Karratha on 08 9185 4634.

SAFE is a not for profit organisation that saves rehomeable animals from euthanasia. They have twelve branches around the state and are always in need of donations to pay vet bills.

If you’d like to donate, information can be found on: http://www.safe.asn.au/How_to_help/Donate.html Have you considered volunteering? SAFE have people who volunteer effectively from all over the country and who make a huge difference to the organisation.

At the moment they’re particularly in need of fundraisers and marketers because they need money to pay for vet bills - every rescue animal has to be desexed, vaccinated and microchipped.

Overheads are kept small as they rely on volunteers to care for the animals, take photographs, write profiles, maintain the website and do administrative work.

People with writing skills who are confident to interview foster carers can make a valuable contribution by writing captivating, honest profiles of pets needing rehoming.

SAFE urgently needs foster carers across our vast state and we’d particularly welcome more foster homes from Perth who can take our animals from any branches.

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

If you’d like to make a difference and join the team of volunteers, please email karratha@safe. asn.au or phone SAFE Headquarters in Karratha on 08 9185 4634.

I read this book the other day it's called The Great Blue Yonder A very easy book to read, but it certainly made me wonder Death, to me, is just a path that most don't want to tread Where it leads us no one knows, all we can do is guess.

Do we float up to Heaven and drift on a cloud Or stay here on Earth with our loved ones around.

Tho' not in our bodies, are we still just the same Do we laugh do we cry - do we remember our name?

When a child takes that path, what do we do?

Anything, that's what, just to keep them close to you Are we being selfish in keeping them here?

After all, we don't know what's in wait for them 'there' I have been lucky, I saw in a dream the place where Colin, my son, may have been A beautiful place with sand, sun and sea A place where anyone of us would just love to be I felt so much peace when first I awoke I knew he was happy, content, for what more could I hope.

As much as I want to keep him near There's something worse that I do fear If I can't or won't let him go He may stay forever in some kind of limbo.

I love him too much to be so unfair A new life awaits him somewhere out there Where will that be I know I will wonder Surely somewhere out there in the Great Blue Yonder

23

FICTION A SHAGGY DOG STORY KAREN R W TREANOR

R

odney Spurge looked at the puddle on the kitchen floor. "Marge!" he called, "Your useless mutt has left you a present."

With a half-hearted kick at the pile of hair cowering under the table, he picked up his lunch bag and left, slamming the kitchen door behind him.

Bloody dog! Marge thought more of it than him. He hoped it would choke on its breakfast.

No fear that would happen to him, Marge didn't do breakfasts for humans any more. Ever since that stupid mutt moved in, Rodney might as well be the invisible man.

What was it about women, what happened to them when they got past forty? When they married, Marge made a big deal about taking care of him, thought he was her knight in shining armour.

Over the years it had all unravelled, ending up with her getting the mutt, ‘for protection and company’, she'd said. What was he, chopped liver?

Company? Who'd prefer a dog to her own husband? As for protection, the dog was frightened of its own shadow.

A lot of good it would be against a prowler.

The bloody dog took all her spare time these days. If it wasn't a dog show it was a visit to the grooming parlour, or the vet, or some other expensive thing.

The spare room, his study, was now festooned with ribbons and pictures and trashy silver-plated cups.

Champion Apricot Djinn, Appie for short, had taken over his house, his wife, and his life, Rodney thought as he stomped along to the bus stop. A freakin' Afghan hound, f'gawds sake!

If she was going to get a dog, why not get a real one, a German Shepherd or something useful? Something that could be trained to guard the house, or fetch the paper or something? He'd told her as much last week, but she'd just shrugged it off.

He got on the bus, wishing it could take a detour through his yard and run the damned dog over.

That night, Marge put on a pretty good meal, almost like the old days, Rodney thought.

"That wasn't bad, just goes to show you can do it when you try," Rodney said, burping loudly and dropping his napkin in his plate.

Leaving Marge with the dishes, he went in to watch the sports news. After that maybe there'd be something good on, like Temptation Island, something with broads and adventure.

If Marge wanted to watch one of her dumb shows like "The West Wing" she could do it in the kitchen: he was entitled to choice of shows; after all, it was his work that kept the house running, put food on the table, paid the electricity.

He didn't pay for the dog, though: he'd put 24

his foot down about that. She wanted the dog, she could support it. It had come as a bit of a surprise when she'd announced that she had a two mornings a week job at the Office Supply Store.

Every penny went into the dog--at least Rodney never saw any of it. Waste of space and money, but he supposed there was nothing he could do about it as long as she paid for it.

Kicking off his shoes and unbothered by the odour that steamed out of his socks, he flicked the channels until he found his show.

"Hey, Marge, bring a beer," he yelled. Shortly thereafter, she came in with a cold VB and a bowl of pretzels. "In case you need a snack," she said, putting them down on the table beside his chair.

She turned back towards the kitchen, then said "Oh, I decided you were right about the training. Appie should pull his weight around here. I'm taking him in for guard dog training twice a week. He's picking up the idea pretty fast, I told you he was smart.”

"Ha!" Rodney said, taking a long swallow of the beer, but obscurely pleased that she'd listened to something he said for once.

He doubted the dog would get a passing mark from dog school, but what the hell, it was better than prancing around at some stupid show with a bow in his hair.

When Rodney got home the next night, Marge was in the back yard with the dog. She was wearing one of her oven mitts, and the dog was leaping at it half-heartedly, its Veronica Lake hairdo flying in the breeze. "Hold, Appie, hold!"

Marge said. The dog jumped at the oven mitt and missed.

"You call that attacking? Jeez, the burglars'd have the TV and the video out the door before that stupid mutt figured out what to bite," Rodney yelled from the back porch.

“Kee-rist, what a waste of time and money, trying to train an animal like that. He went indoors and dropped his jacket on the table and looked in the oven.

Nothing cooking; had she been playing around with the dog all afternoon? He kicked off his shoes and enjoyed the feeling of the cool linoleum under his hot feet.

"Just to remind you, the bread winner's home and wants his dinner," he yelled out the back door. The yelling made him cough, he leaned over the sink and hoicked up something, maybe he was coming down with a cold. Have a beer, that's what he needed.

Going to the fridge he helped himself to a coldie and noticed there were only two left.

Was it too much to ask her to keep the beer supply at a reasonable level? Did he have to do everything for himself?

Scratching his crotch, Rodney sockfooted it into the living room Halfway through the news he heard rattling in the kitchen: good, food was on the way. When she called him in he was disappointed to see that it was tinned ravioli and a plain lettuce and tomato salad beside it, with one of those ready-made garlic bread loaves that tasted like nothing much.

"If you didn't waste so much time on that mutt, maybe we could have a decent meal once in a while," he grumbled, but ate what was put in front of him anyway.

"He's coming along really well. Peter, the instructor, says he's never seen such a quick learner as Appie," Marge said, as if somehow the dog's progress excused her from attending to her main job, taking care of Rodney.

Peter, was it? Pretty cosy after only three lessons, Rodney thought. Not that there was anything to worry about, no one would make a pass at Marge with her grey-streaked hair and dumpy clothes.

"Goin' down the pool hall, quarter-finals are on," he said, grabbing his shoes and putting one on the counter while he struggled into the other one. Marge clamped her lips in a thin line and said nothing.

Rodney put on the other shoe and went to the cupboard where Marge kept a cookie jar that functioned as her housekeeping account.

Helping himself to a couple of fives, Rodney left the kitchen without any other comment.

Arriving home well-lubricated, Rodney fell into bed in his underwear and socks and snored loudly until morning.

The following week, Rodney helped himself to fifteen dollars from the cookie jar and announced, "It's the semi-finals tonight, might want to treat someone to a drink." Again Marge said nothing, just busied herself with the dishes.

Continued on page 25 ...

COMMUNITY BEFRIEND INC. BLOOMING MINDS

N

ick Maisey was an Occupational Therapy student at Curtin University in 2010, when he received an email, forwarded to all students from the school fieldwork coordinator:

There was something about the rawness and simplicity of Tim’s words that resonated with Nick; he went and met Tim, and reflected on the barriers that Tim was trying to overcome.

Tim has a physical disability, which required him to spend a full day sending that short email, a task that Nick had unknowingly perceived as ‘simple.’

Tim had the initiative to think of contacting an Occupational Therapy school, a group of inclusively-minded young people and the courage, to make a brave statement that he did not have any friends, expressing that he wanted to change his situation.

Nick reflected on these personal challenges, as well as the social and cultural barriers that exist today, preventing individuals like Tim from having something many of us take for granted; friendship.

It is the people that we share our lives with that give us a positive sense of self, fostering

positive mental health, wellbeing, and quality of life. Nick and a group of Occupational Therapy students and friends founded Befriend Inc., to work towards a vision of an inclusive, connected world.

That was five years ago. Befriend Inc. now operates two social enterprise projects that create opportunities to connect people, and influence a culture of social inclusion.

The Befriend Social Network has grown to a community of 3,000 adults living in Perth who meet up at regular social gatherings and events to form new connections, expand their personal network, and live a meaningful life.

The Network aims to act as a catalyst for people to form genuine, natural friendships, and live an independent, active social life outside of

Befriend events.

The Network has hosted more than 550 social events, and has led to the formation of genuine friendships, networks, and improved mental health outcomes for its members.

On a community-level, it is breaking down cultural barriers and attitudes that keep people excluded and marginalised.

The organisation also runs The eFriends Project, a technology training program that supports individuals to use technology to strengthen their social connections. eFriends engages trainers to work with individuals and small groups to meet their personal goals around technology and social connection. eFriends partners with organisations to support the needs of clients.

The Befriend Team continue to work on growing their organisation as a sustainable social enterprise, and building a strong presence in Perth.

Befriend events planned for the rest of the year include a Gameshow-style Quiz Night on Saturday 1st August, and the Befriend Ball on Saturday 31st October.

The Befriend Team are currently seeking new members, supporting partners and sponsors, to further their innovative work connection people in Perth.

To find out more about Befriend, visit www. befriend.org.au or on Facebook.

Concluded from page 24 ...

The day the finals were on for the district pool championship Rodney got home early. Once again Marge was out in the back yard with her stupid mutt. This time she had one of his old shirts wrapped around her arm.

“Appie, hold!" she ordered the dog, but the dog didn't seem to know what was wanted, and bounced around like a puppy, big hairy ears flapping. Rodney stood on the porch and laughed. "Stupid mutt!" he said. "He'll be a lot of use when the burglars come."

"He does just fine when you aren't here to mock him," Marge said.

"Ho, ho, ho, the little lady's angry, wow, I'm so scared," chortled Rodney, going indoors and kicking his shoes in the corner. He helped himself to a beer, looked in the oven, saw a casserole and made a quick decision.

"I don't want that muck, I'm going down to the pool hall for the finals, get a Big Mac on the way," he said as Marge came indoors. He put his shoes back on and made for the cookie jar.

"I wouldn't have to cook muck, as you call it, if you didn't keep helping yourself to the housekeeping money," Marge said.

Rodney swung an open palm at her but she stepped back quickly and the blow merely ruffled the ends of her hair. "What did I do to deserve

such a stupid bitch?" Rodney said, not looking at her as he rifled the cookie jar of its last seven dollars. He chugged the beer down, straightened his tie and left.

After a convivial evening at the pool hall, during which he won sixteen dollars, Rodney rolled home pretty pleased with himself. Maybe he'd give Marge five dollars for the cookie jar; that might cheer her up. Maybe he'd even give her the whole seven he'd borrowed earlier.

Turning the back door knob, Rodney met resistance. Fishing his keys out, he managed to get the right one in the keyhole after a bit of fumbling.

Pushed open the door all of four inches, then met more resistance.

She's put the chain on. Dumb broad knew I was out, why'd she do that? Rodney put his shoulder to the door but the chain had been installed by someone who knew what he was doing.

"Marge, Marge, let me in," he called through the crack. Nothing. She'd probably taken a sleeping pill.

OK, he could go around to the front door, but she'd probably snapped the deadbolt and he didn't have a key for that. What to do? Rodney sat on the top step of the porch for a moment trying to clear his head.

Aha, the pantry window. The lock was old,

it shouldn't take much to jimmy that. A couple pokes with his pocket knife and he'd be inside.

Rodney staggered to his feet and stumbled along the porch to the pantry window. Jimmying the lock didn't go as smoothly as when James Bond did it, but after some slips, Rodney felt the latch give way. Sliding the window up he slung a leg over the windowsill and crawled into the small room.

Before he could get his bearings there was a noise in the darkness and something large and hairy landed on his chest, knocking him flat on his back. The thing growled and Rodney felt hot drool on his face. He tried to push the creature away, but got a sharp nip on his hand, enough to make him lie still.

"Marge, Marge, get your ass down here, your stupid mutt's bitten me!" he yelled.

After what seemed a very long time, Rodney heard footsteps on the stairs and saw the kitchen light flicker on.

His wife came to the door of the pantry and looked at him lying on the floor, the dog astride his chest, blood trickling from his upraised hand.

"Well don't just stand there, you stupid bitch, say something!" Rodney cried. The big blond dog growled again, showing every one of its sharp white teeth.

"Appie, kill!" said Marge.

“Hi, my name is Tim. I’m 23yrs old, I love going to the beach, watching movies, and hanging out with others.

I don’t have any friends. If anyone is interested in getting to know me, please get in contact…”

25

THE VOICE OF SWAN HILLS WHAT THE STATE BUDGET MEANS FOR SWAN HILLS FRANK ALBAN MLA

W

ithout a doubt, the most important State Government portfolio for the electorate of Swan Hills remains Transport.

To that end, I recently arranged for a forum where key stakeholders, including builders, developers and trucking companies, along with representatives from a range of community associations, would be able to ask Transport Minister Dean Nalder some questions regarding the road infrastructure initiatives both past and present that the Barnett Government has brought to Swan Hills.

The forum was held in the week prior to the State Budget being delivered and with the Budget now announced, it seems appropriate to go through some of the key initiatives and how they are represented.

The NorthLink WA projects, which includes both the Perth Darwin National Highway (previously discussed as the Swan Valley Bypass) and the Tonkin Grade Separations, is a total of $1.12 billion of State and Federal Government funding.

It is estimated that over $38 million will be spent on the Swan Valley section over 2015-16, with an additional $738 million scheduled over the forward estimates from 2016-17 to 2018-19. I have long supported this project and while this year includes a lot of preparation work, I look forward to the safety and economic benefits that

Minister Nalder addressing the audience at my recent function

part of the Commonwealth Government’s $499 million package towards Western Australia’s infrastructure projects and I anticipate further details on this funding, as well as the effect on Swan Hills related projects, in the near future.

As part of the pre-Budget announcements Transport Minister Dean Nalder and Treasurer Mike Nahan announced a significant commitment to cycling infrastructure, with $72.1 million announced over four years, including $34.4 million for four major projects. One of these four projects is cycling infrastructure from Bilgoman Road, Greenmount to Mundaring.

With Transport Minister Dean Nalder, Dale Alock & Dale Deeks

26

this project will bring to the electorate of Swan Hills.

The long awaited upgrade to Great Eastern Highway, from Bilgoman Road in Greenmount to Mann Street in Mundaring, is included in this year’s State Budget, with $8.6 million in 2015-16 and $3.4 million the following year.

At this point I should note that both NorthLink WA and Great Eastern Highway – Bilgoman Road to Mundaring were recently mentioned as

Mundaring is known as a hub of Perth’s hills, attracting both cyclists and drivers due to its picturesque location.

Between this cycling infrastructure and the State Government’s commitment to Great Eastern Highway upgrades along that same stretch of road, these projects will ensure that our roads are safer for all users.

Following the State Budget announcement, additional State and Commonwealth

commitments have been made for a university campus at Midland – a significant opportunity for eastern suburbs students to directly access tertiary education in the future.

In terms of the State Budget in the broader view, this budget is about ensuring the most vulnerable members of our community will receive the support they need.

To that end, the State Government’s no-fault catastrophic injury cover will assist those who suffer a catastrophic injury as a result of a car accident.

I’ve been advised that approximately ninetytwo Western Australians suffer such an injury ever year and while approximately forty-eight people are able to assert that another person was at fault, approximately forty-four people each year are unable to assert blame to another party.

When this idea was open to public consultation over ten weeks last year, it received overwhelming support. While there is a cost associated with this, it will still be cheaper than almost all other states and territories and will provide support for those who otherwise have to rely on public health and disability services, personal insurance or family and friends.

In addition, the State Government has announced a $560 million commitment to deliver 1,000 homes by June 30 2017.

This will assist seniors and families on the priority waitlist for social housing, an issue that doesn’t just affect my electorate of Swan Hills but throughout the entire state.

I believe that this State Budget has been primarily about ensuring we support those in need and am particularly pleased by the commitment to social housing, especially given the current economic climate.

The State’s continued commitment to road infrastructure in Swan Hills remains significant and ensures that residents of the area will have seen major improvements to almost every major route to either Midland, Joondalup or Perth.

NOTES FROM PARLIAMENT HON ALYSSA HAYDEN MLC Member for East Metropolitan R egion

T

WA GOVERNMENT 2015-16 BUDGET

he Liberal National Government continues to implement key reforms, tightly manage expense growth, build on its achievements and support Western Australian businesses and households through the current challenging environment.

Softening economic conditions have directly slowed growth in all other major sources of State tax revenue.

By far the largest impact on the State’s finances has been from the substantial decline in commodity prices, particularly iron ore and oil. It is worth noting that the Government’s resources revenue (Royalties) has decreased from 26% down to 5% and our GST revenue has decreased from 25% down to 5%.

This collectively has resulted in a massive decline to the State’s income. This is the first time the State has faced declining revenue of this magnitude since 1996-97.

The Liberal National Government is broadening the economy and backing WA business to create jobs. We continue to build and modernise the State with a $24.1 billion asset investment program over the next four years.

We have an asset sales PLAN to reduce debt and fund existing infrastructure initiatives and have kept the impact on households and businesses to a minimum.

I have outlined below a snapshot of some of the budget measures covering the East Metropolitan Region for your information:

INVESTING IN INFRASTRUCTURE TO GROW THE STATE The Government’s Asset Investment Program totalling $6.3 billion in 2015-16 and $24.1 billion over the next four years, will result in the creation of more than 93,000 jobs during construction, with thousands more indirect jobs created for offsite suppliers and services. Of all state projects 80-90% of contracts were awarded to local businesses.

Examples are: v Elizabeth Quay – 400 jobs and 149 companies engaged v New Perth Stadium – 5,700 jobs with 58 companies engaged v New Museum – 400 jobs v Roe Highway Stage 8 – 1,500 jobs v Perth-Forrestfield airport rail link – 800 jobs v Perth Darwin Highway – 1,050 jobs The Liberal National Government has modernised the State; revitalised the regions; built education, hospital and transport infrastructure for the future and is transforming the city. It has delivered quality services in education, health, law and order, child protection, disability service and mental health.

TOURISM Tourism is a critical economic driver for the State contributing $8.3 billion last year and supporting 94,000 jobs. In 2015-16, Tourism WA’s total budget will be $89.1 million. An additional $11 million

Mundaring with $8.6 million allocated in 2015-16 v Lloyd Street – Midland Under Pass - $12.5 million allocated in 2015-16 v Post construction upgrade to Roe HighwayBerkshire Road grade separation allocated $16 million in 2015-16.

($4.3m in 2015-16 and $6.7m in 2016-17) has been provided to extend the Regional Tourism Marketing program, which delivers one of our 2013 election commitment. The funding will be used to focus on driving regional visitation from the domestic market and select overseas markets.

ROAD SAFETY Roll out of a further $20 million in 2015-16 for the LED flashing 40k/hr school speed zone signs to ensure the safety of the most precious within our community, our children.

Should you require more information from the State Budget, please contact me directly. The detailed 2015-16 Budget Papers can be accessed SMALL BUSINESS To ensure the tax burden on businesses is from the following website: minimised, the Liberal National Government is www.ourstatebudget.wa.gov.au. sticking by its commitment to increase the payroll tax exemption threshold to $850,000 from 1 July 2016.

HEALTH $417 million over the next four years to ensure our communities have access to safe, quality and cost-effective health and hospital services.

EDUCATION $4.8 billion will be spent on education services in 2015-16, an increase of $294 million or 6.5% on 2014-15. v New High School - Ellenbrook North Senior High School allocated $1.2 million in 2015-16 v New Primary School – Anne’s Landing (Ellenbrook) Primary School allocated $7.1 million in 2015-16 v Additions and improvements to Armadale Senior High School $2.25 million and Cecil Andrews Senior High School $2.25 million allocated in 201516.

SPORT & RECREATION Delivering on another election commitment, $7 million funding towards construction of the Ellenbrook Recreation Centre.

No-fault Catastrophic Injury Compulsory Third Party (CTP) Insurance Scheme After extensive consultation the new CTP will be introduced for Western Australian motorists on 1 July 2016 at a cost of $99 for the family car with a reduced rate of $25 for farm vehicles and $30 for vintage cars. This will provide long-term care for all people catastrophically injured in motor vehicle accidents in WA. ROADS Commonwealth funding of $499 million will be spread over nine road projects, including the Mitchell Freeway extension, Tonkin Highway grade separations and work on the Reid Highway-Malaga Drive intersection grade separation. Construction will also continue on the: v Gateway WA project with $137 million allocated in 2015-16 v Great Northern Highway – Muchea to Wubin Stage 2 with $117 million allocated 2015-16 v NorthLink WA – Swan Valley Section with $38.6 million allocated in 2015-16 v Forrestfield-Airport Link with $45.4 million allocated in 2015-16 v Great Eastern Highway – Bilgoman Road to

Unit 8 Vale Town Centre 31 Egerton Drive Aveley WA 6069 Phone: 9296 7688

Email: frank.alban@mp.wa.gov.au Advertisement

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Hon Helen Morton MLC Ph: (08) 9452 8311 Fax: (08) 9452 8366 helen.morton@mp.wa.gov.au

Hon Donna Faragher MLC Ph: (08) 9379 0840 Fax: (08) 9379 0845 donna.faragher@mp.wa.gov.au

Hon Alyssa Hayden MLC Ph: (08) 9274 8484 Fax: (08) 9274 7874 alyssa.hayden@mp.wa.gov.au

27

EDUCATION

28

FINANCE DOES THE AGED PENSION NEED A LAFFER CURVE FIX? STEVE BLIZARD

D

r Arthur Laffer was Ronald Reagan’s onetime economist and is author of the most famous economics diagram known as the Laffer Curve.

Laffer first illustrated his simple curve 40 years ago on a cloth cocktail napkin at a dinner with White House advisers Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld.

He simply demonstrated that when the tax rate was zero, logically the government will collect no revenue.

However when the tax rate is 100 percent, no one works, and similarly the government doesn’t get any revenue.

Interviewed on ABC TV’s, “The Business”, during his visit to Australia in March, Laffer said: “What you really need in taxes is voluntary compliance – if rates are fair and reasonable, they’ll pay them.

“If they aren’t, people are going to try to get around them”.

Laffer realised that raising tax rates had little effect on top earners' incentives to work but very significant effects on incentives to avoid tax.

Higher rates further down the income scale are much greater disincentives to work, Laffer says.

However Laffer was careful to distinguish between a tax rate reduction and a drop in tax revenues.

Because the Laffer curve epitomizes the distinction between tax rates and total receipts by plotting them against each other, it made no sense to set tax rates above the inflection point on the curve.

To do so forfeited potential tax revenue.

He also said that that when you treat the taxpayer as the enemy, you’re going to make an awful mistake.

Under Laffer’s economic theory the tax rate should boost economic activity, ultimately generating more government revenue.

This is exactly what happened.

Solid evidence supporting Laffer’s theory came during the Reagan years, where the government’s budget numbers showed that tax receipts expanded from US$517 billion in 1980 to US$909 billion eight years later.

This was a near 75 percent increase in revenue or a 25 percent rise adjusted for inflation.

The Reagan tax cuts were followed by an economic boom that today’s Americans can only envy.

With this economic history in mind, it is intriguing to see the logic in the Social Security Minister Scott Morrison’s proposed changes to the Centrelink Aged Pension taper rate, as outlined in the 2015 Federal Budget.

For a home-owning couple, from January 1, 2017, the new threshold for the Aged Pension Asset Test will be reduced to $823,000 from the present $1.15 million.

But it is the severe change to the "taper rate" that is likely to affect most people; especially those entering retirement over the next 10 to 15 years.

The taper rate determines how much of the fortnightly pension payment is lost for each additional $1,000 of assets above the lower threshold.

At the moment, $1.50 of a fortnightly pension is lost for each additional $1,000 of assets above the lower threshold.

From the start of 2017, the taper rate will be $3.

The upside is that from January 1, 2017, homeowning couples with less than $451,500 in assets, not including the family home, will be unaffected or a little better off.

The lower threshold – the maximum assets allowed and still receive the full pension – will be increased from $286,500 to $375,000 for a homeowning retiree couple.

However with cash rates under three percent, retirees have been quick to calculate that the new married couple homeowners' asset-test-free area of $375,000 will, along with the full age pension, generate a higher income stream than $1 million of assets.

Morrison’s budget changes will mean an estimated 170,000 retirees with modest savings

will see arise in their pensions, but about 330,000 part-pensioners will lose some or all of their entitlement.

On the ABC's Q&A 25th May program, Dante Crisante asked Treasurer Joe Hockey about this apparent paradox of the retirement income system.

He suggested to Hockey that Coalition's decision to reduce who could receive the pension would encourage more people to rely on it, not fewer.

Crisante asked Hockey the question that has been on the minds of many retirees, accountants and financial planners since the federal budget: Why save for retirement instead of buying an expensive house and qualifying for the government pension?

In a later interview, Crisante said: "I know a lot of people who are giving away all of their money and houses to their children so they can qualify for the pension.

“The system is allowing people to cheat around it”.

Crisante said the latest pension changes do not encourage people to do what the government wants, which is to self-fund their retirement and reduce the burden on the pension.

Expert pension consultant, David Knox, agrees, and says that the revised assets test has thrown up some perverse outcomes.

He argues that the change to the taper rate is too harsh.

Rather than lift the rate at which retirees lose fortnightly pension payments from $1.50 to $3 for each additional $1000 of assets, Knox suggests $2 would be a fairer figure.

Moreover, it should be introduced gradually and over a much longer period, perhaps a decade.

"You do need to give people some years to plan," says Knox.

As Laffer says, “People respond to incentives, and if you make something more attractive, they will do more of it - but if you make something less attractive, they will do less of it.

Perhaps Scott Morrison should consider hiring Arthur Laffer as a ministerial adviser to help fix Australia’s retirement income system.

Courtesy of Roxburgh Securities

29

WHAT’S ON IF YOU WOULD LIKE AN EVENT LISTED IN THIS COLUMN RING JAN ON 9298 8495 CANCER BIG MORNING TEA Ellenbrook Wednesday, May 20 Doors open 9.30am at the Salvation Army Hall, Ellenbrook for a 10.00 am start. Raffles etc, $10.00 entry plus door prize Phone Brian or Bev on 9296 7640 or Bev on 0417 643 098

SWAN HARMONY SINGERS Every Wednesday evening Swan Harmony Singers are welcoming new members, especially men, to join us at the Salvation Army Church Hall, 371 Morrison Rd, (opposite Swan View Primary School), Swan View.

We meet from 7-9pm, to sing music ranging from jazz to pop, plus the occasional classic.

As we are starting on a new programme of songs, ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Glen Forrest Group this is the perfect time to join. No auditions.

For more information, call Chris on 9298 9529 or Every Monday evening We meet at 7.00pm at the Glen Forrest Uniting 0435 062 728. Come and sing with us!

Church, Mc Glew Rd, Glen Forrest. Call Dermot 0488 905 211 or John 0448 074 536 or the Perth GUILDFORD MARKET Office (all hours) 9325 3566.

Third Sunday of every month At Guildford Town Hall, Corner of James and AUSTRALIAN BREASTFEEDING ASSOC. Meadow Streets. 9am - 3pm.

Discussion groups, guest speakers, morning Situated in the heart of Guildford, within five tea. Free breastfeeding counselling. Expectant minutes walking distance from the Guildford mothers, mothers, babies and children welcome. Train Station, a visit to the Guildford Market is National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 686 2686 is sure to please. a 24 hour 7 days a week service.

With a diverse and unique array of locally handcrafted products and produce, there will Swan/Mundaring Group meets every Monday, be something of interest for all. From garden 9:30-11:30am at the Gumnuts Family Centre, ornaments, homemade jams and relishes to 8 Mudalla Way, Koongamia. A qualified ABA handmade soy candles, cards, bags, cushions, counsellor is present at each meeting to give children’s toys, bears, baby and children’s wear. confidential information and support on Individually designed and crafted glassware, breastfeeding issues. Contact Natalie 9572 4971. jewellery and beautifully made wood products and so much more to tempt you. Sausage sizzle, Kalamunda Group meets fortnighly on a live music all day.

Thursday, 9:30-11:30am at the Maida Vale Baptist Make a day of it, stroll around the markets and Church, Edney Road, High Wycombe. then take the time to wander about the heritage Contact Jenny 9252 1996. listed town of Guildford. Enjoy a picturesque Heritage Walk Trail or pay a visit to the antique, Northam Group meets each second Tuesday of art and craft shops along the cafe strip. the month at the Bridgeley Community Centre, Enquiries: Bromwyn, 6278 4252.

Wellington Street, Northam 10am to Noon.

Fourth Tuesday each month at Toodyay Playgroup, MORRIS DANCING Stirling Terrace, Toodyay. Noon to 2pm. Please All welcome. It’s like bush dancing, with sticks phone Louisa 9574 0229. and bells. It’s aerobic exercise and great fun!

Tuesdays 7-9pm practice, Guildford Town Hall, HILLS CHRONIC PAIN SUPPORT GROUP cnr James St and Meadow St, Guildford. And 1st Wednesday of each month drinks later at the Woodbridge Hotel with live Hilltop Grove Estate, 1645 Jacoby Street, Irish music Mahogany Creek. Morning tea provided, between For more information please contact: 10.30 - 12.00 noon.

Christine hogan: 9279 8778 Enquiries Terina 9572 1655.

Email: madtattersmorris@iinet.Net.Au Website: madtattersmorris.Myclub.Org.Au THE HILLS CHOIR Monday Evenings ELLENBROOK LOCAL & GENERAL MARKETS Do you enjoy singing and joining with others Saturday, 13 June to make beautiful music? Come and join the Hills This is a family friendly indoor market featuring Choir. We meet from 7.30 to 9.30pm at the Uniting a variety of handmade & unique market stalls, Church on Stoneville Road, Mundaring. Contact face painting, hot coffee, gourmet food and free Margie on 9295 6103 for further information. children’s craft and giant games activities held from 10am to 2pm at the Ellenbrook Salvation Army Hall (Woodlake Blvd).

SWAN VALLEY SQUARES – ELLENBROOK For more information call 9524 8845 or email: Every Friday Night Modern Australian Square Dancing from markets@streethassle.com.au 8.00 pm – 10.00 pm Woodlake Community Hall, 1 Highpoint Blvd, Ellenbrook. Friendly, fun and MUSTARD SEED - DISCOVERING COMPUTERS low cost. No previous experience necessary. All Mustard Seed is a non-profit organisation Welcome. Contact Greg Fawell 0417 912 241 or and caters for all aspects of everyday computing. www.swanvalleysquares.weebly.com Ability levels from beginner to advanced are 30

welcome and learners proceed at their own pace.

There are desktops, laptops, iPad and Android tablets, scanners, printers and Wi-Fi broadband internet. Cost is $3 per session.

Enrolments in 2014 exceeded 100. To gain a place in 2015 enrol now. Forms and information are available by: Phoning 9299 7236 or 0416 815 822 or E. discoveringcomputers@westnet.com.au.

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.

SWAN WOODTURNERS GROUP meets in the rear hall of The Senior Citizens’ Centre, The Avenue, Midland, at 1-00pm. on 1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th. Tuesday, and at 7-00pm. on 2nd Tuesday of each month. A demonstration and cuppa are the norm. Men and Women are welcome. Enquiries to Ted 9295 4438.

TALKING HORSES Wednesday evenings 6:00pm The WA Horse Council equestrian radio program is now in its seventh year. The programme is broadcast on the Community Radio Station 91.3 SportFM. The program is presented by Chairperson Diane Bennit and includes any issues that the horse industry is facing, international news, interviews with personalities who are experts in their field, and information on breeds and major events, If you are out of radio range, go to www. sportfm.com.au/programs then ‘Talking Horses’ and listen live. For Podcasts www.sportfm.com. au/programs/podcasts then ‘Talking Horses’, click on your choice of downloads from the four available dates.

To ensure that your club, event, breed or business gets coverage, call Diane Bennit 0409 083 617.

BUSINESS CARD BOARD ACCOUNTANT

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Servicing most areas

A Sick Home PC? Treating viruses and software Low Cost Home Visits Professional advice Police Clearance 9295 5238 (All Hrs)

BRICKPAVING Specialising in Brickpaving & Soakwells

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EDITOR

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Need an editor?

Get expert advice on layout, editing, costings, publishing and marketing from a professional editor.

First consultation free. Free quotes.

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CARPET CLEANING

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OPPORTUNITIES COMMISSION SALES Swan Magazine is looking for someone to sell advertising.

The position would suit a selfmotivated person who wants flexible working hours.

We offer generous commission rates, training and advice.

Ring our editor, Jan Patrick, on 9298 8495 for an appointment to discuss options.

32

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A SUPER SPECIAL FOR SWAN MAGAZINE READERS OF $20 FOR THE 2 BOOKS, (OR $12.50 EACH) * THAT IS A SAVING OF $22 ON AMAZON & BOOK SHOP PRICE!!

Saturday 13 June 10am - 2pm Ellenbrook Salvation Army Hall Woodlake Boulevard, Ellenbrook Come along to a family friendly indoor market featuring a variety of stalls, face painter, balloon twister & hot coffee.

There will also be a FREE Children’s Corner featuring Craft & Giant Games Activties!

For more information call 9524 9517 or visit: facebook.com/localandgeneralmarkets 33

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