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Phone 9295 1488

Shop 5, Mundaring Shopping Centre 7025 Great Eastern Highway, Mundaring

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WHY YOU SHOULD ADVERTISE IN THE SWAN MAGAZINE

n these difficult economic days with so many media outlets (radio, television, Yellow Pages, business directories of all kinds as well as newspapers) clamouring for your advertising dollar it is important for you to get the best possible value for your money.

We believe an investment in advertising space in the Swan Magazine represents good value for the following reasons: Any published advertisement lasts only until its next issue. A weekly newspaper lasts a week at best and in most cases a single reading only. We are a monthly magazine and so any advertisement lasts at least a month until the next issue.

We have many, many examples of advertisements lasting and working much longer than that since, because of the nature of the Swan Magazine, readers - your customers - retain copies of the magazine and refer back to it.

Swan Magazine covers a unique area of distribution extending throughout the City of Swan and The Shire of Mundaring, with a bulk drop in Kalamunda.

Print copies of Swan Magazine are bulk dropped at various locations, such as shopping centres, libraries, tourist centres and focus points.

This ensures that your message is delivered directly to your customers and potential new customers.

The print copies of Swan Magazine has a monthly readership of around 30,000, all of whom have your details in front of them.

We have gradually reduced the number of home-delivered copies

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and replaced them with bulk drops.

This was not an easy decision and one we took with trepidation - but the results have been unexpected.

Advertisers have reported a increase in results by and large as the copies have been taken by someone who wants to read it rather than have it delivered in the centre of a thick bundle of advertising material where it gets lost or thrown out.

An advertisement flashed onto a cinema screen lasts perhaps 30 seconds and few patrons take pen and paper with them to jot down your phone number in the dark.

Swan Magazine severely limits the percentage of space devoted to advertising, making each one more effective.

We have all seen publications with pages and pages of advertisements with nothing else on the page to tempt the reader to linger, notice and read your advertisement.

Because we carry so much editorial in the way of articles of general interest readers often tell us they read the magazine ‘from cover to cover’.

We are also the only printed, freely-distributed medium to carry both fiction and poetry. In addition the quarto size and the fact that it is bound makes the Swan Magazine easy and convenient to read anywhere.

In addition to the printed version, which we will always publish, we now produce a digital issue which can either be e-mailed directly to your inbox, or a link to a commercial site where you can read the magazine or download or print it out for later reading.

The first, test, issue was electronically published in October of 2013 on the website Issuu and as at the date of writing this has been viewed over 15,000 times locally and globally.

Swan Magazine does not publish so-called ‘advertorials’ for the simple reason that they do not work as an advertising feature. People simply do not read them. When did you personally last read an article all the way through which began ‘We have been in business now for thirty years and our service is .... etc...’

Puff pieces like this are ineffective because they are unread, irrelevant and regarded, quite rightly, by the reader with scepticism. Whatever you sell readers do not care to read about the excellence of your staff or their kind natures.

Our advertisements are more effective on a dollar for dollar basis.

A business card board advertisement in full colour in the Swan Magazine costs $80 per month.

Can you get a 6 by 4 centimetre advertisement in colour for $20 a week in your current publication?

A final point to consider is that Swan Magazine places advertisements on appropriate pages - health product advertisements appear on those pages devoted to health; financial consultants’ advertisements of the finance pages and so on - these advertisements are not placed wherever there is space or it is convenient - each is placed in a relevant, effective, spot.

We offer a range of advertisements to suit every advertising budget why not ring 9298 8495 and talk to us.

IN THIS ISSUE PAGE

FEATURES

Art and Artists

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Books and Writing Rachael Bermingham KSP - Whats On Banker John - Review Self-Publishing Business Card Board

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Chef-Adventurer Community National Heritage ADF Gap year Play Review Transition Launch Former Hills High School

Student Wins A Rising Star

5 7 7 14 14 23 25

Dining Out

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Education

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Finance 21 Gardening 8 Top Tips for Gardening Gardening for Birds

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MUNDARING ARTS CENTRE presents

CANOPY - into the forest plus SHELLEY PIANG-NEE, Artist in Focus SAT 3 MAY - SUN 8 JUNE 2014 VIEWING TIMES Tues - Fri 10am - 5pm Sat and Sun 11am - 3pm closed Mon and Public Holidays

No Tolerance to Chopping Cooler Nights Time to Winterise

Letters to the Editor Health Matters Arthritis - The Facts Osteoporosis Strategies for Life

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COVER PICTURE: Olivia Davies

Photo courtesy James Simmons, James Simmons Photography

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MCC 22 Networking With Lesley Night Sky Notes From Parliament

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PC Surgeon 20 Pets 24 Poetry 21 Rotary 25 SAFE 24 The Idler The Voice of Swan Hills What’s On

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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.

MUNDARING ARTS CENTRE

7190 Gt Eastern Hwy (cnr Nichol St), Mundaring WA T: 08 9295 3991 info@mundaringartscentre.com.au

www.mundaringartscentre.com.au SUPPORTED BY

Guildford Town Hall Cnr James & Meadow Street 9:00am--3:00pm Held on the third Sunday of each month, with more than 50 stalls with a unique & varied range of handcrafted and produced wares to tempt and inspire.

Fresh Fruit & Veggies Face Painting Live Entertainment Sausage Sizzle For further information contact Bromwyn 6278 4652 1

HEALTH MATTERS ARTHRITIS – THE FACTS OSTEOPOROSIS - THE JOHN BELL TRUTH ABOUT CALCIUM ith more than three million Australians treatments. These include exercise, hydrotherapy, W suffering with arthritis, it’s certainly is time physiotherapy and occupational therapy.

SUPPLEMENT that we all became more aware of what is probably Diet appears to play no major role in the cause one of the most misunderstood of all the common chronic medical conditions.

Maybe arthritis is misunderstood because there are so many different forms of the disease – well over 100, each one causing varying degrees of pain and disability, and each one responding to different treatment options.

The word arthritis literally means joint inflammation; although in one of the two most common forms of arthritis – osteo-arthritis – there may be little or no actual inflammation.

Osteo-arthritis is the wear and tear type of arthritis. It usually occurs later in life, particularly in people who have injured or put extra strain on their joints, but can happen to anyone.

Osteo-arthritis is often confused with osteoporosis where the bones become brittle and there is a high risk of fractures. While the two conditions are different, they sometimes occur together.

Injury and overuse are two of the factors which contribute to osteo-arthritis, but it’s possible that we might also inherit the tendency to suffer with osteo-arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is the next most common form of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is the disorder of the immune system that results in destruction of cartilage around the joints.

The continued inflammation also changes bone structure and causes joint deformity.

With rheumatoid arthritis the smaller joints (hands, feet and ankles) are usually affected first. They become hot, red, painful and swollen.

But there are other symptoms as well such as generalised weakness, fatigue and fever.

Both these major forms of arthritis can often be managed effectively with a combination of medications and so-called non-pharmacological

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or treatment of osteo- or rheumatoid arthritis; however, there is no doubt if you’re overweight, with all that extra load on your joints, your symptoms will be a whole lot worse.

Paracetamol products such as Panadol are the medicines of first choice for the control of the pain associated with osteo-arthritis; but a regular dosing of two tablets, three or four times daily will be necessary to gain most benefit – an occasional dose when the pain is severe is unlikely to have much effect.

Anti-inflammatory pain relievers (known as NSAIDSs) can be used in osteo-arthritis if the pain is not sufficiently controlled with the paracetamol.

Most recently developed NSAIDs, less likely to cause stomach irritation, are now available. Check with your doctor to find out if they are suitable for you.

There has also been interest lately in nutritional supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin and evening primrose oil.

DON’T HOARD MEDICINE We Australians are certainly a nation of hoarders. That may be great for some things, furniture perhaps, bottles of wine or stamps and coins that appreciate in value as time goes by.

There is no financial benefit, however, in collecting medicines. In fact, there are some significant problems associated with having old or unwanted medicines lying around the house.

Research recently conducted by News poll shows that around 40% of the population keep a range of medicines long after their ‘use-by’ date; and one in four of us keeps out-of-date prescription medicines.

Keeping old medicines can be a health risk, and disposing of unwanted medicines inappropriately can also pose a risk to the environment.

Mostly, out of date medicines simply become ineffective, however, some deteriorate to the extent that they might be dangerous.

And it’s not just out of date medicines that can cause problems. Medicines should only be retained if they are in current use or may be needed for first-aid treatment.

Specifically, eye drops can be easily contaminated and as a general rule should not be used for more than four weeks after first opening – regardless of the actual expiry date on the box or bottle.

Do not, under any circumstances, flush unwanted medicines down the toilet or sink; nor dispose of them in the household garbage.

We should not assume that sewage treatment plants can effectively treat all substances contained in medicines and we do not want fish and other aquatic life suffering the side effects of medicines we no longer want.

The only safe method of disposal is to return unwanted medicines to your local pharmacy.

EDDIE ENEVER

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steoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease that causes the bones to become thin, weak and fragile, such that even a minor bump or accident can cause serious fractures.

The disease impairs the density of the bone as well as its structural quality. Often people do not know that they have osteoporosis because the condition lacks obvious symptoms.

Did you know every 5-6 minutes, somebody is admitted to an Australian Hospital with an osteoporotic fracture of some sort?

An estimated 692,000 Australians have doctor-diagnosed osteoporosis based on a recent National Health Survey (ABS 2009) and rates are on a steep rise. More than eight out of 10 (81.9%) of these people are females and most are aged fifty-five years and over.

So why are our bones getting weaker when we are taking calcium supplements to strengthen them?..

If only our body was so simple that taking a single nutrient would fix the problems that have been developing over decades.

An important point about your bones is that bone is composed of at least a dozen different minerals and if you focus exclusively on calcium supplementation there is the possibility that you are going to worsen your bone density and actually increase your risk of osteoporosis because it’s not just the calcium responsible for the density of bone.

In fact, over-consumption of poor quality calcium in the goal of preventing osteoporosis creates other mineral deficiencies and imbalances that may also increase your risk of heart disease, kidney stones, gallstones, osteoarthritis, hypothyroidism, obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Excessive calcium intake does not fool your body into building more bone, any more than delivering an extra load of bricks will make a construction crew build a larger building.

Calcium is classified as a macro-mineral meaning we need relatively large amounts for the body to function at optimum capacity.

If asked, most people would say calcium’s role in the body is for your bones, and they would be absolutely correct, but did you know calcium is also used in bodily processes such as growth and development, healthy nerve and muscle function, blood clotting, regulating your blood pressure, cell structure and absorption of vitamin B12 So strong bones are only one part of what our bodies use calcium for. Calcium intake each day is important, but more importantly it’s the type of calcium consumed that’s the most important factor.

Many of the products on the retail shelves are what are classified as in-organic calcium.

Examples of these are calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, calcium gluconate and calcium lactate.

Continued on the next page ...

HEALTH MATTERS Concluded from page 2 ...

As living organic human beings we require organic minerals through our diet for optimal health.

Inorganic minerals are found further down the food chain such as the soil and rocks like limestone/chalk (the major source of calcium carbonate).

In nature the inorganic minerals are taken up by the plants that grow there and converted in the plant to organic minerals. We were designed to eat the plant and to gain nutrition from the organic minerals contained within.

We were not designed to munch on rocks.

This example may make more sense to you – imagine a rather large cow standing in a pasture.

Does that cow have a skeleton? Yes it does.

Where did that cow get its calcium from to build the strong structure to support its huge body weight? I don’t remember growing up seeing cows munching on any limestone… So where did the calcium come from? The grass!

The dark leafy greens it spends most of its day grazing on. So where is the best source of calcium for us? The same type of food the cows eat – whole foods such as dark leafy greens, other veges, fruit, moderate grain intake etc.

Calcium is also found in other areas of the food chain such as the animals that eat the vegetation such as in the non-pasteurized milk of the cows and products made from this (always in moderation).

The take home point here is that calcium from food is simply better absorbed and utilized by your body than synthetic or inorganic calcium from a pill. Of course, it’s not just calcium that you’re better off getting from whole foods, it’s all nutrients. Your best choice is always to favour getting nutrients the way nature intended.

Dr. Colin Campbell, Ph.D., professor of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, has studied nutritional bio-chemistry for forty years.

He is the director of the China-Oxford Cornell Study, which is the largest study of diet and disease in medical history, and supports the necessity of organic calcium intake. He agrees that calcium intake should be from fruit, grains and dark green leafy vegetable sources.

It must be remembered that there are many factors that contribute to bone health and diseases such as Osteoporosis and taking calcium is not a miracle fix for the bones.

I am not advising you to immediately drop your calcium supplement but consider getting a total holistic health appraisal from someone who understands human nutritional biochemistry and the role this has on bone health.

Each person needs to be assessed individually to remove any “road blocks” such as poor nutritional status, an acidic diet, low body weight, low vitamin D levels, a sedentary lifestyle, low stomach acidity and antacid use to name a few.

Once these “road blocks” are identified, action can be taken to remove these and introduce new dietary and lifestyle habits to encourage your body to rebuild your bone density.

Courtesy of Mundaring Wellness Centre

STRATEGIES FOR LIFE INSOMNIA

KAREN VERALL B.A. Soc Sc., Dip. Clin Hypnotherapy, Pract NLP, Mstr Pract. HNLP, Adncd Hypno & NLP & Psychotherapy

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nsomnia is Latin for ‘no sleep’. Unfortunately many people have periods of experiencing the inability to fall asleep or remain asleep.

Insomnia can also be described as the feeling of waking up not feeling restored due to inadequate sleep.

Insomnia can be experienced as acute, lasting one to several nights, or chronic, when it lasts for months or even years. It can be a disorder in its own right, but insomnia is often a symptom of some other condition especially stress or worry.

Symptoms include; • difficulty falling asleep • waking up frequently during the night • difficulty returning to sleep waking up

too early in the morning • unrefreshing sleep and daytime sleepiness • difficulty concentrating • irritability If you experience insomnia there are often easy changes in routines that can assist in improving quality and quantity of sleep.

These can include improving your diet, reducing any intake of caffeine, reducing your levels of stress, establishing an exercise regime and assessing the environment in which your sleep in. Professional assistance to reduce stress levels is also beneficial to improving sleep.

Hypnosis has been found very effective in assisting people to achieve a relaxed state and reduce and remove stressful thoughts.

Self hypnosis can often assist in reducing insomnia by providing relief to calm both the body and mind.

An example of self hypnosis is ; 1. Visualise a soft, black velvet curtain which has a warm, comfortable feeling aout it. As thoughts enter your mind, allow these to drift across the curtain and disappear out of the other side of your mind, then return to a contemplation of the curtain.

2. Then imagine yourself on the veranda or patio of a lovely house which has ten steps leading down to a beautiful garden below. For each step you descend, allow yourself to let go more and more so that, when you reach the foot of the steps, you feel a sense of peace and relaxation.

Enter the garden and notice the flowers, the drifting of clouds, the sound of birds singing and rustle of leaves in the trees, and pleasant warmth of the sun (pause).

3. Continue to visualize the garden, picturing yourself lying on the grass, enjoying the warmth of the sun on your face. As you lie there, watch the leaves as they fall slowly from the trees nearby, reminding you that it is possible to let go of old problems and worries, allowing them to drop away, just as old leaves drop away from trees, to make way for new growth.

Courtesy of Resonate 3

DINING OUT

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NANDOS

The Thoughts of an Ageing, Balding Foodie

t is no secret I spent my formative years in South Africa before migrating to Australia, so I landed here some years before Peri Peri sauce did and it was one of the things I missed along with biltong and melktert.

Peri Peri is a small hot chilli that grows on dwarf bushes over large parts of Africa. Peri Peri is Swaheli and means ‘pepper, pepper’.

W hen they arrived as colonists in Africa the Portugese made it into a hot sauce, which is also rich and spicy. In South Africa the sauce is used on almost any meat or fish and comes in several shades of incandescence, usually spelled piri-piri, which is also the correct pronunciation in any spelling.

A few years ago in Australia Nandos set up their chain of fast, inexpensive, restaurants offering an option to the endless burgers of other chains and they have been immensely successful.

Offering take-away as well as dine-in the restaurants are decorated in a clean, up-market,

style that is very appealing.

The menu is versatile, offering mostly chicken but in a wide variety. Plain cuts of chicken, whole chickens, chicken paella, burgers, wraps, and pitas alongside salads, rice, cous cous and chips.

Three of us took luncheon there and ate to satiety for $20 a head. We ordered a ‘burger with the lot’ ($13.95) which had chicken breast, lettuce, mayo, peri-peri chutney, bacon, cheese, caramelised onion and an egg. It comes with a purple flag proudly waving ‘The Lot’.

We also ordered a ‘Mixed Platter’ ($27.85) of a half chicken, eight chicken ribs and four tenderloins of chicken.

the options run from ‘Plain-ish’ all the way up to ‘Extra Hot’.

We picked ‘mild’, which was delicious certainly not all that mild, but hot and spicy with great flavour.

In addition to the spicy sauce it’s cooked it you can put your own dash of sauces from the sauce table on it of the same range. Curiously enough the ‘Hot’ and ‘Extra Hot’ are not that much hotter, but are a different blend of herbs and spices making for quite a different taste.

We accompanied this with soft drinks and a serve of ‘Seriously Large Chips’ ($7.95) in periperi salt to make a filling and satisfying meal.

Although that was what we ate for a quick meal there is a wide range of options and given the quality of what we ate this time, I’m very keen to try some of the other dishes.

Vegetarians are well catered for and even vegans as well as those who are gluten and sulphide intolerant.

As an

These are all prepared the special Nandos way, which is marinated for twenty-four hours before being flame-grilled in your choice of sauce.

And that choice is not an insignificant one -

option to the chains of burgers and chicken in a roll Nandos offers a real, and inexpensive, alternative.

Oh, and if you want the experience and taste without actually having to dine there you can buy just the sauces and marinades to cook with in the comfort of your own home.

If you go to their website (www.nandos.com. au) they will even suggest meals and provide recipes, such as the Peri-Peri Prawns.

Very Highly Recommended.

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herever you see this symbol you will be able to get more information by scanning it with your smartphone, laptop or iPad. The relevant can be downloaded free from your App Store.

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CHEF-ADVENTURER

LOSING A DAY IN NEW ZEALAND BRENDAN MURPHY

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n many an adventure around the world I have sometimes got lost or arrived late. Who hasn’t?

But have you ever lost a whole day? Or in fact even worse, arrived late at a rendezvous by a whole day!

Well Murphy certainly has, on a very

January’, and Lee was there waiting at home later that day, but no Murphy arrived! Of course I arrived on the 25th on the Thursday!

Isn’t it bizarre, I mean where did that day go, does one cease to exist? One would not want to be celebrating a birthday crossing the Dateline as it could be over before it begun! Beam me up Scotty!

Anyway, where was I? Aaah, yes .... New Zealand; what a beautiful pair of Islands they are.

However I must add that I have still only yet been to the North Island. I flew from Auckland across the whole Island looking down on the north Islands biggest snow capped mountain ‘Ruapehu’, arriving at the capital Wellington, situated on the southern tip.

From there I jumped on a train heading back north to ‘Paraparaumu Beach’ situated along the

very friendly and chatty ‘Para-Param’ locals in the ’Village Inn’ for many a Kiwi beer.

As for food, well I have not worked there as a Chef yet, but I did attend a traditional home BBQ with a whole Lamb on the spit (of course, what else in NZ?) It was absolutely delicious, I am drooling now as I write, as it was just ‘fall off the bone stuff’, and I helped out too, by giving it the odd baste with their home made Tarragon and mustard flavoured marinade.

I was reluctant to leave so soon but I had a ten hour coach trip back to Auckland Airport, through it was beautiful going through the National Park, dominated by Ruapehu in the distance.

It was a long coach trip, but little did I know at the time that a rather longer and not as picturesque coach trip lay ahead, across the Australian Nullarbor Desert from Melbourne to Perth. That one would take three days not ten hours!

In the meantime, here is a recipe using that lamb on the spit theme, but I have simplified it into a quick stew still using Tarragon and mustard as the main flavours.

MUSTARD AND TARRAGON LAMB

Ingredients 500g diced lamb 3 tablespoons English mustard 4 chopped cloves Garlic 1 large diced onion 1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes Ruapehu Mountain, North Island, New Zealand 30ml oil 3 tablespoons chopped, fresh Tarragon 800ml Beef stocks memorable occasion when I crossed the Kapiti Coast.

Salt and pepper to taste International dateline somewhere in the Pacific! I In ancient Maori, Paraparaumu means was on my way around the world from UK via the "scraps from an earth oven" and is commonly Approx 30g corn flour to thicken USA, twenty years ago, destination Perth. abbreviated to ‘Para-Param’, particularly by longerMethod I have previously described my stay in LA term residents of European ethnicity. when I stayed with an old Manchester mate in The Kapiti Coast is the name of the section 1. Brown the lamb and onions in oil in large pot.

California. From there I continued west to NZ to of the coast of the south-western North Island 2. Add the garlic, tomatoes and mustard. stay with yet another old Manchester mate Lee, of New Zealand that is north of Wellington and 3. Add the stock and simmer for 30 minutes. who had married a Kiwi and moved to NZ. opposite Kapiti Island. Kapiti means ‘boundary’ 4. Add the tarragon and season.

In fact they are still there now with three as the island was at one time the boundary 5. Dissolve corn flour in approx 50ml cold water, and stir into the stew. grown up children living on the Kapiti Coast near between the territories of two Maori clans. the capital Wellington.

However, back in more modern times, 6. Simmer for a further 5 minutes According to my old diary, my ticket actually Murphy walked to Lee’s house (very late) to be 7. Serve with pasta. said ‘arrival in Auckland on Wednesday the 24th greeted by Zoot the dog who informed me with a Chef Tips: Corn flour can be increased if you want very friendly lick that nobody was home! it thicker, and cooking time can be reduced to

So I headed for a local Cafe only to bump into FOR A MORE IN-DEPTH of A Taste of 20 mins if you used a more tender lamb cut like Lee strolling down the street, who informed me; Europe or indeed A Taste of the World follow rump. “you’re late again Murphy!”

The Chef Explorer

Now, I only had a few days, (and one had been on Facebook, with ‘lost’ somewhere) to explore, but boy, did I enjoy more anecdotes on them.

Travel and Food or The Kapiti coast has spectacular views of the listen to Brendan Tasman Sea, wild surf beaches and a sunny, easy on his weekly going lifestyle which was right up my street! radio show on So off we went for numerous adventures on Radio Ellenbrook the volcanic beaches where somebody had carved 88fm. this incredible lifelike sandcastle of a Dragon, To buy his books much to the delight of their little son Rory! go to www.

On another day we drove further up the coast chefexplorer.com. to Otaki to swim in the river there at a lovely place au. called Otaki Forks. In the evenings, I joined the 5

THE VOICE OF SWAN HILLS THE HILLS RUN RED, WHITE AND ROSÉ FRANK ALBAN MLA

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s the Swan Valley (and its reputation as a wine region) is a key part of the electorate of Swan Hills, it could perhaps be easy to overlook the nearby Perth Hills, where a number of wineries are established.

A diverse range of grape growers, cellar door sales and online shops represents the broad geography of our capital city’s hills region.

The Perth Hills Vignerons Association has built a comprehensive guide to the area, with a focus on itineraries and routes, as well as suggesting accommodation for those wanting to spend a little more time in the area and showcasing the some of the restaurants associated with the wineries.

The Association has done a great job in making it as easy as possible for visitors to cover the vast areas, breaking them down into suggested routes, such as Bickley Valley, Chittering Valley, Heart of the Hills, and Serpentine Valley.

In addition, they also run a calendar that spotlights specific events at particular wineries.

It’s a fantastic resource and a great site to visit before planning a day trip to wineries in the Hills.

Within Swan Hills and while taking the Heart of the Hills route, you

Within just these five wineries, there is a range of wines, facilities, and history that certainly add something to the experience of shopping for a nice bottle or two.

Chidlows Well Estate, named after the old rail station opened in 1884 that linked to the goldfields, produces Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Shiraz and Verdelho, offers cellar door tastings via appointment, as well as online orders from their website.

Malmalling Vineyard has a café on site, with cellar door tastings and sales Friday through

loo rds, Wooro tte Vineya

o Lake Charl

can find Chidlows Well Estate, Malmalling Vineyard in Parkerville, Valley View Wines in Mundaring, Lion Mill Vineyards in Mount Helena and Lake Charlotte Wines up in Wooroloo.

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

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

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With Planning Minister John Day at the Hills Wine Awards, 2013

Sunday where you can taste their Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, or Rose, in addition to the Chardonnay, Semillon or Verdelho.

Kit and Pam Chambers established Malmalling in Parker-ville in 2002, and the vineyard takes its name from an Aboriginal name for the property owned by the Chambers family in the Mundaring region from the early 1900s.

Also open Friday to Sunday is Lake Charlotte Vineyard in Wooroloo, and with breakfast available in the restaurant on Saturday and Sunday, it might be a good start for those wanting to hit the road early, and with a wide range of red and white, as well as sparkling and a rosé, there’s sure to be something for everyone who likes a glass.

Lion Mill Vineyards, started in the late 1990s, grows grapes over one and a half hectares of vines, and in addition to the usual suspects of red and white, also produces desert-style and fortified wines. They are also known for their Zinfandel (also known as Primitivo), a black-skinned wine grape prominent in California wineries on the west coast of the United States, but not particularly common in Western Australia.

This is but a sample of the range of establishments present in this oft-overlooked region.

In July last year I was invited to the Perth Hills Wine Show, an awards night that presented nine awards across a range of wine types. For me, it really reinforced just how excellent some of our Hills wines are, as well as just how vested this community is in not just remaining in the shadow of the Swan Valley.

It was great to see Lion Mill Vineyard’s 2010 Cabernet Merlot Petit Verdot come away with the award for Best Value Wine of Show. Add to that the success of Malmalling Vineyard at the 2010 awards or the 2012 awards for Chidlows Well Estate, and you might realise that the Hills might be alive with something weren’t even aware of!

For more information on the Perth Hills Wine Region, you can visit www.perthhillswine.com.

COMMUNITY NATIONAL HERITAGE

NOTES FROM PARLIAMENT

he Australian Government is inviting all Australians to have a say in the future of our nation’s heritage.

The Government has released a draft Australian Heritage Strategy for public comment until 9 June 2014.

It’s an opportunity for all Australians to discuss what heritage icons should be protected, and how best to manage and maintain these places.

The aim of the Strategy is to provide outcomes, priorities and actions that effectively recognise, manage and celebrate Australia’s unique heritage.

Every day, residents across Hasluck devote their time and energy to preserving our heritage.

The draft Australian Heritage Strategy contains a range of commitments and proposed actions that recognise this work and aim to support and strengthen community engagement with our heritage.

The draft Strategy is built around a central vision of our natural and cultural heritage being valued by all Australians, protected for future generations and cared for by the community.

Essential to achieving this vision are three key elements:

NEW HOME INVASION LAWS

HON DONNA FARAGHER JP, MLC Member for East Metropolitan R egion Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier

KEN WYATT MP

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National Leadership · Improve support for Australia's iconic world heritage sites · Capture a representative National Heritage List · Pursue greater recognition and protection of our natural and cultural heritage · Contribute to international standard setting and guidance Innovative Partnerships · Greater heritage policy and process alignment across all levels of government · Build capacity through workforce support, education and training · Alternative funding, resource sharing and creative partnerships · Foster collaboration between heritage and tourism sectors Community Engagement · Creating incentives to care for our heritage · Greater knowledge and engagement with our heritage · Appropriate timing for the national celebration of Australia's heritage · Management of heritage places · Models for greater recognition of heritage champions The protection of Australia’s heritage is central to the Australian Government’s Plan for a Cleaner Environment and is a fundamental pillar of our vision for Australia—a society that protects and improves its environment for future generations.

The draft Australian Heritage Strategy is available for comment on the department’s website at: www.environment.gov.au/australianheritage-strategy

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he Liberal-National Government has introduced tough new legislation to strengthen the State’s home invasion laws.

Introduced into State Parliament by Police Minister Liza Harvey in March, the legislation targets the most serious repeat offenders by tightening mandatory sentencing laws.

It mandates minimum jail terms of seventyfive per cent of the maximum available for an adult offender who commits serious physical or sexual assaults in the course of a home burglary and also includes changes to the counting rules for calculating burglary ‘strikes’.

The ‘three strikes’ rule was introduced in 1996 to ensure that repeat offenders would not avoid imprisonment.

It was found, however, that multiple burglaries committed over several days would sometimes count as only one strike.

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.

This will no longer be the case.

In summary, the legislation makes a number of significant changes: • An adult offender who commits serious offences of physical or sexual violence in the course of a home invasion will face a mandatory sentence of seventy-five per cent of the statutory maximum (or three years detention for juveniles sixteen and above) for such offences.

For example, an offender who breaks into a house and violently rapes someone will face a minimum of fifteen years imprisonment.

An offender who breaks into a house and causes serious harm will face a minimum of seven years, six months imprisonment.

• The existing mandatory penalty of twelve months for a third home burglary will be doubled to a mandatory penalty of two years for a home burglary committed by an adult ‘three strike’ offender.

• For adults, three burglary offences will mean ‘three strikes’.

Juvenile offenders over sixteen will be given an opportunity to avoid a mandatory sentence on their first court appearance, but each further burglary offence will count as a strike.

This legislation should send a very clear message that home burglaries will not be tolerated by our community.

COMMUNITY

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ADF GAP YEAR

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ocal Member for Hasluck, Ken Wyatt MP, has today welcomed the launch of the Government’s Australian Defence Force (ADF) Gap Year program.

The ADF Gap Year program provides an opportunity for young Australians, who have finished year 12 (or equivalent) and are aged between 17 and 24*, to experience military training and lifestyle whilst gaining new skills and pay over their Gap Year.

Gap Year opportunities are available in the Army and Air Force only.

“If young people are looking to take a gap year, which could lead to a potential career and serve our country, then they should seriously consider applying for this worthwhile program,” said Ken Wyatt MP. “If you’re looking towards next year and saying ‘I don’t want to go to uni yet,’ or ‘I don’t want to do a trade or go into work,’ then why not spend a year with our defence force?”

Applications will be opening in June 2014 and young people can go to http://www.defencejobs. gov.au/education/GapYear/ to register their interest now and find out more information.

The Gap Year program will commence in January/February 2015.

Your local Liberal East Metropolitan Members of Parliament

Here to help!

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

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

7

ART AND ARTISTS MAC IN MAY CLARE STROUD

Forest... large tract of land covered with program of events including encaustic trees. workshops, tours and talks for school Heritage... that which remains to be students and all ages. They are open passed on to us after tens of thousands of from 3 May until 8 June 2014 at the years of indigenous and non-indigenous Mundaring Arts Centre. interaction with the forests.

Gallery 1 Canopy – into the Forest Curated by Peggy Lyon and Ashley Yihsin Chang 2 May – 8 June 2014 Timed to complement WA’s Heritage Festival, the exhibition Canopy – into the forest reflects on the natural and cultural heritage of forests in south west Western Australia.

Works by artists Peter Dailey, Mel Dare, Joanne Duffy, Bec Juniper, Norma MacDonald, Clare McFarlane, Alan Muller, Perdita Phillips, Gregory Pryor, Nien Schwarz, Nalda Searles, David Small, Holly Story, Paul Uhlmann, Linda van der Merwe and Philip Ward-Dickson stimulate consideration around the contradictory attitudes towards this natural resource.

In the past, the mythology of the Australian way of life has been heavily dependent on the notion of the pioneer, prospector and pastoralist, and once found heroic expression in the large landscapes of Shelley Piang-Nee prepares Gallery 2 for her exhibition artists such as Frederick McCubbin.

McCubbin's much-loved painting Down inexhaustible resource. on his Luck is a typical example of the fascination Few Australians now have an intimate, with a romanticised idea of life in the Australian detailed relationship with their land. Our bush. It was painted in what is now a densely- contemporary society’s inclination to speak of populated suburb of Melbourne. the natural world as magnificent and wondrous Many people still think fondly of the bush while simultaneously managing to exploit it in an “out there” but few of us have an intimate or unaware or unchecked manner has been played detailed relationship with the land. Whether such out historically in the conflicted way we have a relationship is necessary for an understanding of interacted with our forests. the value of natural ecosystems is doubtful.

For this exhibition, these sixteen The painter Fred Williams, who was contemporary artists based in Perth were invited preoccupied with the country, professed no to make an art work with reference to this natural affinity for the bush and yet he changed the way and cultural legacy we have inherited. many of us see this country. “I don’t want to live in it” he said. “I only want to see it from a distance. Gallery 2 Artist in Focus - Shelley Piang-Nee I couldn’t say I love the bush.....I simply want to Shelley Piang-Nee’s work has been described paint pictures from it.” as “organic” as she habitually references nature Early Europeans who came to the south-west through her sculptural forms and installations. corner of this continent must have seen a vast and Her work often speaks of environmental and ethical issues with natural forms made from wood, metal, polycarbonate and acrylic placed in stark environments to elicit an emotional and intellectual response.

Recently graduating from Polytechnic West, (Top to bottom) Alan Muller, Walken Boona Piang-Nee held her first solo show Botanica Boodja (Rainbow Tree Country), acrylic on canvas; Gregory Pryor, Nanuk 2, oil on linen; Synthetica at the Junction Gallery.

Since then she has participated in several Nalda Searles, The Shape Changers Slippers, group shows and residency programs, with her men’s slippers c.1997, sandalwood shavings from lathe work c.1993, rubber; Clare McFarlane, work held in various private collections.

During this Artist in Focus, Piang-Nee will be Caladenia, acrylic and aerosol on canvas; Philip in Residence on Fridays 10am-3pm and Saturdays Ward-Dickson, Invader – Now and Then, acrylic 11am-3pm, giving visitors the opportunity to on board; Norma MacDonald, Lost Canopy, find out first-hand how she creates her stunning lino printing ink, watercolours, acrylics, inks, pencils on watercolour paper; Shelley Piang-Nee, sculptural forms.

Both exhibitions are supported by a public Collective Psyche, acrylic and wood.

8

THE IDLER

The Idle Thoughts of an Idle Mind GETTING PHYSICAL

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“

et’s get physical,” trilled Oliver Newton-John, in her pop video, while being filmed with gorgeous hunky young men and some others who clearly needed to get a bit more activity that is physical.

There was no doubt she herself was in good shape, by the way. But, it didn’t inspire me then and still doesn’t do it today.

Exercise and I have a lifelong, ambivalent relationship.

Like most, I have gone through periods of being convinced I would exercise every day for the rest of my life, because it’s good for you and your body, but found I got bored with it fairly soon.

I was never good at sport during my school years, much preferring to read a good book than run a hundred yards. While my Dad was very athletic in his younger years, my Mum and I both lean more towards academic ventures.

Except – when there is something specific to be done, a goal to be achieved. You may know that I am making a sea change and moving to Mandurah.

Before we can do that, my Dad and I, there are some modifications needed for the unit into which we will move.

We are modifying the bathroom by having the bath removed and a new, walk-in shower recess created. My Dad is ninety-six, has a gammy leg, and is getting a little unsteady on his feet.

There is no way we could have him trying to step into a bathtub for his shower. So, that entails removing all the wall and floor tiles and having them replaced, as well as a new bathroom vanity cabinet and some handrails.

First step, find a tiler and a plumber, who are happy to do a small job. Then, I had to choose wall tiles, floor tiles, and cabinet. It is no exaggeration to say I have walked at least five kilometres, up

and down Albany Highway and its side streets, looking at tiles. In the end, they have come from Craft Décor (wall), Bunnings (floor), and Masters (vanity).

The wardrobe space in the second bedroom, his, is about fifty centimetres wide. Asking him to give up his 120 centimetres wardrobe, with four drawers as well, was not an option.

So began the hunt for a spacious wardrobe, with sliding doors, because between his bed and the dressing table he will not relinquish, there was not enough room for a wardrobe with opening doors.

After a few unsuccessful viewings of wardrobes on Gumtree, and trawling all the major furniture stores, we bought one for each of us in flat pack.

It was finally a matter of walking into the store, where the floor staff recognised me (from my frequent visits) and me putting up my hands and saying, “Please, just take my money!”

We have engaged a young local man to assemble them for us and he has proven to be a godsend. Dad has already hung his clothes.

We also have to downsize some of our lounge furniture, so I spent a few days looking at LazyBoy single chairs in the furniture stores; I found an excellent one on Gumtree, at a quarter of the retail price.

Fortunately, my son was able to collect it for us and my Dad already loves it. While Warren and I footslogged through the displays, we found a small TV cabinet, that was exactly what we needed, and which is already in the unit.

We bought a bed for guests, along with a couple of red bar stools that offer a bright spot of colour and the promise of hospitality.

A smaller two-seater lounge is already on offer from the family, so that’s taken care of and the existing display cabinets for my cat collection and Robbie’s model cars will finish the lounge, very nicely, with the floor lamps we already have.

The lockup garage is already two thirds full with boxes, shelves, and chests we have packed and transported down there, in anticipation of bringing their contents in to furnish our new home.

We will get the removalists to bring the heavy stuff: fridge, kitchen dresser, beds and mattresses, chests of drawers etc – so that’s not too physical except for the final clearing of the rooms.

The intensive packing is done and Dad and I are living like squatters in our almost empty unit, except for my office. That is something I haven’t been able to contemplate yet – but the bonus of the move is that Mandurah already has broadband and

I will be able to connect to the NBN when we do move the PC. It really got physical when I decided to refurbish the kitchen, as well. I trekked from IKEA, to Masters, to Bunnings and back again, pricing cupboards and choosing colours and finishes.

With those settled, and not being prepared to wait ten weeks for an installed kitchen, I decided we would do it ourselves. Todd knows how to build flat pack furniture!

With scaled drawings in hand, it was back to the showrooms for tiles for the kitchen splash backs and dining/kitchen floor. I have already collected five boxes of tiles for the bathroom walls and four boxes of tiles for the floor, brought them to the garage, then moved them to the laundry to be clear of the flat packs.

Masters delivered the flat packs on a pallet; I discovered the basin top for the new vanity was broken clean in half, had them find a new one, loaded the broken one into my car (with the help of a passerby) and drove from Mandurah to Safety Bay to get it changed.

I drove from Mandurah, to Cannington, to Belmont, collecting up the eleven boxes of tiles I needed for the kitchen/dining room floor and took them to Mandurah, too.

The curtains were chosen in Cannington, after visiting at least four soft furnishings stores; a second trip to get the rods, a third to return one curtain, which proved to be faulty when unpacked.

Next, I am off to the cabinetmakers, plans in hand, to get the bench tops made. The new stove is in the kitchen, not yet unpacked, with the old one already decommissioned. The measurements for the overhead cupboards have been checked and rechecked. The dining room vinyl is in the skip, which is already full and another one is coming.

So far, I have been able to spend one night in my new sea change home and am commuting from East Victoria Park every day while we are refurbishing.

Luckily, all my tradesmen have family responsibilities and want to start after they have dropped the kids off at school, which gives me time to get there.

There has been no time to be idle, especially when making sure the tradies are scheduled in the right job order, but they are all great blokes, and are making it easy for me.

Already, I have walked by the water, up to the supermarket, to the Post Office and the tile shop.

I have walked to the locksmiths, the coffee shop and the bank. It seems I am going to be getting physical, after all.

www.facebook.com/StoriesMyNanaTells 9

GARDENING 8 TOP TIPS FOR GARDENING

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LESLIE HERBERT

veryone loves making life just a little bit easier and this article reveals six top tips for achieving a beautiful, productive garden with the minimum of effort.

We reveal a trick to get the sweetest tomatoes ever, simple ideas to reduce waste, limit chemical use and so much more!

flower bed! Try placing them around borders of your garden beds.

Basil: Not only will you have a mosquito repellent, you will also have a delicious fresh herb on hand to add to all of your favorite recipes.

There are many different varieties of basil around, so feel free to experiment and find the ones that you like best. An added benefit is that basil grows 1. Use A Flower Pot With Builders Sand To readily from cuttings, so take a branch from the Avoid Rusty Tools next fresh bunch you buy and grow your own.

Fill a terra-cotta pot with builder’s sand (sold at hardware stores), then stir in some mineral oil— just enough to dampen the sand. The mixture will clean the tools and prevent corrosion and rust. (If the pot has a hole on the bottom, cover it with duct tape.)

2. Keep Your Garden Mosquito Free These plants, herbs and flowers look beautiful and smell amazing, but mosquitoes hate them.

Plant them around your garden or on your patio in containers and enjoy a mosquito free garden:

Citronella: Chances are, you’ve heard of this one before- it’s one of the most common ingredients in most mosquito repellents. Oddly enough, many people don’t even know that citronella is actually a plant - a beautiful perennial clumping grass that emits a strong aroma. That aroma masks other scents, and keeps mosquitoes from being attracted to things located around it.

Citronella is very easy to grow, and can get to be very tall. You can grow citronella in pots and place it around a porch or patio, or you can plant it directly in a yard or garden bed.

Lemon Balm: A member of the mint family, the plant is a very easy plant for beginning gardeners to grow- even if you don’t have a green thumb. Lemon Balm is a very hardy plant, it resists drought, and it grows well even in shade. It is fast growing and sometimes aggressive plant, so you may want to contain it to a pot.

Marigolds: A bright, hardy annual plant, marigolds are a great choice for repelling mosquitoes. Marigolds contain Pyrethrum, an ingredient found in many insect repellents, and they have a unique aroma which bugs find repulsive. The flowers themselves are beautiful and can make a great border or addition to any 10

Lavender: You know that lavender is a gorgeous purple flowering plant with a soothing, calming scent. But, did you know that it is also a natural mosquito repellent? Grow it indoors near a sunny window, or outside in your garden or flower bed to keep the bugs away.

Peppermint: Most bugs despise the smell and taste of peppermint, so planting it around your home is a great way to keep them from dropping by uninvited. Plus, if you do happen to get bitten, peppermint leaves rubbed directly onto the skin make a great itch relief treatment.

Garlic: Unfortunately studies have shown that eating garlic does not repel mosquitoes.

However, having garlic around does! Make sure

to add some garlic to your flower bed or vegetable garden for added protection!

Rosemary: Rosemary is a beautiful flowering plant that is often used to flavor lamb or fish dishes and is also a natural mosquito repellent. It’s perfect to add to your herb garden or flowerbed to keep bugs away and it even attracts butterflies!

Geranium: This beautiful flowering plant is a great choice for mosquito repellent. When planted in a hanging container, the colorful blooms will cascade over the side of the pot, providing a beautiful visual piece as well as a very useful bug repellent.

3. Fertilize Your Plants With Milk Using milk as fertilizer has been an old-time remedy in the garden for many generations. In addition to helping with plant growth, feeding plants with milk can also alleviate many issues in the garden—from calcium deficiencies to viruses and powdery mildew.

Milk is a good source of calcium, not only for humans, but for plants as well. Raw, or unpasteurized, cow’s milk has some of the same nourishing properties for plants that it has for animals and people. It contains beneficial proteins, vitamin B and sugars that are good for plants, improving their overall health and crop yields. The microbes that feed on the fertilizer components of milk are also beneficial to the soil.

Along with the benefits of using milk fertilizer, there are potential drawbacks. These include: Using too much milk is not a good idea since the bacteria in it will spoil, resulting in a foul odor and poor growth. The fat in milk can produce unpleasant smells as it breaks down as well.

The benign fungal organisms that colonize leaves and break down milk can be aesthetically unattractive.

Dried skim milk has been reported to induce black rot, soft rot, and Alternaria leaf spot on treated cruciferous crops.

Use milk that is past its date (great way to recycle), but you can use fresh milk, evaporated milk, or even powdered milk as well. It is important that you dilute the milk with water. Mix a solution of half milk and half water.

When using milk fertilizer as a foliar spray, add the solution to a spray bottle and apply to plant leaves. The leaves will absorb the milk solution.

However, keep in mind that some plants, like tomatoes, are prone to developing fungal diseases if the fertilizer remains on the leaves too long. If the solution is not being absorbed adequately, you can gently wipe down the leaves with a wet cloth or spray them with water.

Alternatively, you can pour the milk mixture around the base of the plants where the roots will gradually absorb the milk. This works well in smaller gardens. The top portion of a 2-liter bottle (upside down) in the soil next to new plants makes an excellent reservoir for both watering and feeding plants with milk.

Do not treat the area with any form of chemical pesticide or fertilizer after applying milk fertilizer.

GARDENING This can affect the main fertilizer components in milk that actually help the plants—bacteria. While there may be some odour from the decaying bacteria it will subside after a few days.

4. Make Your Tomatoes Extra Sweet With Baking Soda Home grown tomatoes are nothing at all like those that you buy in the stores. Even the vine ripened ones can’t compare in taste to the sweetness of those you grow yourself. Just sprinkle a small amount baking soda on the soil around your tomato plants being careful not to get the soda on the plant itself. (you can also use 1 tsp in a gallon of water and water the plants that way) The baking soda soaks into the soil and lowers the acidity levels. This will give you tomatoes that are more sweet than tart. However, be careful with young seedlings and be sure to test on one plant before you try it on all of them. If your soil is already quite alkaline, you could alter it too much by adding too much baking soda.

5. Start Seeds With A Citrus Peel Just poke a hole in the bottom of the peel for drainage, fill it with potting soil, then add two seeds and some water. After thinning to one seedling per peel, transplant the whole thing into the garden. The peels will compost directly into the soil to nourish the plants as they grow.

6. Grow Herbs For Free From Cuttings You can propogate many herbs from cuttings – including basil, thyme, mint, oregano, lavender, lemon balm, rosemary, sage and many more.

Unlike cloning other organisms, plants have a much simpler procedure you can do in your kitchen. Take cutting from mother plant. Cut a stem of total length of about 8cm, cutting about a centimetre above a leaf node. The leaf node is where the leaves attach to the stem. You want to make this cut at 45degrees with a sharp knife/ razor blade/shears.

Remove two to three sets of leaves. You want the plant to concentrate of growing roots rather than leaves so you need to trim off the sets of leaves that will be in water/rooting medium and start the rooting process.

Depending on the type of herbs you need to place your cutting in simply a container filled with water or some sort of rooting medium.

Start in water: Basil, Thyme, Mint, Oregano Start in Rooting Medium: Lavender, Lemon Verbena, Lemon Balm, Rosemary, Sage, Scented Geraniums.

7. Get the most out of your strawberry plants When you purchase your strawberry plant, you have a central plant. As it grows it produces runners. Runners are long stems that run off the central plant and create baby strawberry plants.

This might sound great, you automatically get more strawberry plants for free, but it is not a good thing! These “runners” strip the central plant of its nutrients and the central plant will produce only a few strawberries.

To remove the runners, follow the runner to the central plants base.

Notice that the my runners have red stems.

Not all red stems are runners though so make sure it is a runner before removing. Also depending on the variety, the stem might not be red. A runner is always longer (or running) from the central plant. Now simply remove the runner at the base of the plant.

By removing the runner you are allowing the central plant to get all the nutrients it needs to produce a lot of wonderful and delicious strawberries!

This simple step of removing runners will allow your garden to flourish with strawberries.

Strawberries are one of the easiest fruits to grow.

So why not give it a try?

Once you have home grown strawberries out of your garden, it is hard to go back to store bought. They really are that good! Happy gardening everyone!

less dense soil around it. Even if you water it, the plant may not be getting the water.

You can loosen up the root ball by directing the roots away from the plant using a root hook, or by scoring the sides of the roots with a sharp blade.

But a far better idea is to soak the plant for several minutes in water prior to planting.

When you plant, fill up a large bucket with water - preferably rainwater since it does not have any of the chlorine or other chemicals of sceme water.

Take the plant out of its pot and gently pull any encircled roots away from the plants. Then set the root ball in the bucket of water. Let it soak for anywhere from thirty seconds to three minutes—or until air bubbles stop coming out of it. This deep hydration actually reverses the plant’s hydrophobia.

When you install a sopping wet root ball into the ground, the dry soil around it actually clings to the root ball by osmosis, creating a better soil to root contact. This technique is especially good for container trees. If the plant is that large, consider filling a wheel barrow full of water.

For an even bigger running start soak the root ball in a bucket of freshly brewed compost tea.

Compost tea is essentially compost-brewed water that is aerated for twenty-four hours and mixed with a bit of molasses or other sugar.

Compost tea takes the beneficial bacteria and fungus present in compost increases them exponentially by aeration and sugars.

These bacteria and fungus are critical in root establishment. Soaking your new plant in compost tea literally loads the root ball with beneficial soil micro-organisms right before it gets planted.

Happy gardening ...

8. Saving Pot-bound plants The big problem with plants in pots is that they can become root bound. Roots naturally grow out and down (mostly out) away from the plant. When the roots of a plant in a pot reaches the wall of a pot, it has nowhere to go and will begin circling the perimeter of a pot over and over again.

Almost any gardener who has brought home a new plant from a nursery has seen how a container plant can get root bound. It’s best to avoid plants in this condition, but often gardeners don’t have that option.

Root bound plants can often become so dense, they will not absorb water. The density of tangled roots in a container plant can make the plant hydrophobic—it literally sheds water.

Think about a dry sponge. When you first stick it under a tap, water bounces off of it.

So if you simply place that root bound plant in the ground and water it, water will more than likely run off the root ball and move toward the 11

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his series provides a list of gardening tips, including cultivation, soil types, fertilising and mulching, and water-wise gardening, to make sure that your native garden is a success and attracts birdlife.

HOW MUCH MULCH SHOULD YOU USE? Apply mulch to at least 100 mm in depth, which should last all year. Be careful that it isn't piled up against plant stems or trunks as this can encourage fungal growth and disease.

WHEN SHOULD YOU MULCH? Mulch just after rain when the ground is already moist. This helps to keep the moisture in. How often you mulch will depend on the type of mulch you use, how quickly it breaks down and needs replacing, and the reason you are mulching. If for food, mulch twice a year in spring and autumn; if to retain moisture, a thick layer once a year should be sufficient.

GARDENING GARDENING FOR BIRDS stock from nurseries are a good size to plant, are cheaper and will establish and settle into their new position faster than older plants.

Mulch with an organic mulch at least annually.

This helps both to retain moisture and to prevent sandy soils from becoming water repellent, through the action of micro-organisms in the mulch.

Plant appropriate plants that are suited to the conditions in your garden and don't require excessive care to keep them healthy.

Wetting agents or surfactants can be applied to the soil, which can help to reduce water repellence and help the soil to retain moisture.

Discuss their use with your local nursery.

Install water tanks and gather your own water supply which is free of chlorine and other additives used in city water supplies. It can be used directly on the garden or in garden ponds containing fish or frogs.

DISEASES AND PESTS Keeping your garden clean and healthy is the most important method of avoiding health problems in your plants. Healthy plants are less likely to get badly attacked by pests or diseases.

Good gardening practices, such as keeping your soil healthy and using plenty of organic matter as mulch to help retain moisture, will help to ensure this.

Don’t worry if a plant is looking less than perfect. If an Australian native plant is attacked by insects it might look a bit shabby, but for the plant, it may be like having a good prune. If left PRUNING alone, they often recover and look much better for Many native plants benefit from regular pruning, especially tip-pruning (pinching off the the trim. growing tips). This helps to keep them compact ENCOURAGE INSECTS INTO YOUR GARDEN and dense, which is most important when Some insects are leaf eaters or may bore holes planting for small birds. The best times to do this in stems. But other insects will prey on these depends on the plant and why you are growing it; damaging insects and will eventually get rid of if it is providing nectar, tip-prune after flowering them. The more insects there are, the more likely has ceased; if seeds or fruit are the benefit, prune you will be to have a balance of good and bad after these have finished. insects. You will also have more birds.

WATER-WISE DESIGN There are a number of garden designs which ENCOURAGE BIRDS INTO YOUR GARDEN The best controllers of insect pests are birds. also reduce the use of water For example, if the Many birds are insectivorous, including most of soil in a garden bed is simply raised as a mound, the smaller birds and the honeyeaters. So, the over time it will pack down and water will not more birds you have and the greater diversity readily infiltrate and the plants will suffer. One of bird species that visit your garden, the fewer more useful method is to build a system of raised beds and swales (artificial or natural hollows problems you will have with insect pests. for drainage of surface water) so that the water gathers in the low areas and soaks into the raised WATER-WISE GARDENING Many Australian plants use less water than beds. Designing and landscaping your garden to introduced plants, but most still require some direct water either into garden beds or to capture moisture to grow well. There are a number of it during storms in low-lying parts of the garden will make a big difference to your garden's ability ways to reduce the amount of water you use: Plant small plants and encourage them to retain moisture in the soil. to develop a deep root system by watering minimally (just keeping the soil moist) right from GROW INDIGENOUS AUSTRALIAN NATIVE the beginning. As they mature, the deeper root PLANTS system will allow them to survive on less water Australian native plants, particularly those and tolerate droughts more successfully. Tube that are indigenous (grow naturally) to your area, 12

will usually have their own means of managing and overcoming pests and diseases. For example, many native plants also have their own defense mechanisms such as using sap to inhibit stem or trunk boring insects.

AVOID USING SPRAYS AND CHEMICALS Try not to use sprays and chemicals unless you really have to. Generally the more you use the more you have to use, so once you start it is much harder to stop.

Using a chemical may solve one problem but often creates another, such as toxic run-off. Of course, not all nurseries will give you this advice, as they want to sell the sprays and chemicals, but ethical garden advisers should.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WHEN A PROBLEM ARISES? Firstly, try and diagnose what the real problem is and what is causing it. Many books give advice about this or you can take a sample/picture of the plant to your local nursery and seek advice from their gardening adviser.

WHAT ABOUT FUNGAL DISEASES AND ROOT ROT? Many fungi are good fungi and some, known as mycorrizhae, have symbiotic (mutually beneficial) relationships with Australian native plants, helping them to survive in Australia's nutrient-poor soils.

These can be encouraged by having a healthy organic garden free of chemicals and artificial fertilisers. However, some fungi do cause diseases, particularly of the roots, which may cause wilting or sudden death.

These can be hard to treat. If you think this may be the problem, take a sample to your local nursery and get advice on the disease and its treatment.

DEATH BY AGE Not all plant deaths mean disease. Many Australian native plants are quite short lived, especially those which also grow quickly such as many of the Acacias (wattles). They may die slowly or quite suddenly. You can plan for this; if you have a favorite plant that you know may only live for a while, plan to keep planting them on a regular basis so you always have some in your garden.

DEATH BY AN UNKNOWN FACTOR Some Australian plants are very particular about their requirements and die for no apparent reason. Any one or a combination of factors could be the cause.

One way of avoiding a repeat performance is not to try and grow that plant again or, if you really love it, you may need to provide it with very specific conditions.

When you are trying out new plants in your garden, it is a good idea to only get one or two to start with. If they do well and thrive, buy more. If they don't, try something else.

GARDENING NO TOLERANCE TO CHOPPING TREES

CARLI ALLEN

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esidents of the Shire of Mundaring will be hit with a $350 fine or prosecution if they chop trees on Shire of Mundaring land or reserves to use as firewood.

With the cold weather already here, Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Throssell said people would be readily fined or prosecuted if they were not following the rules.

A Wooroloo resident was recently fined $350 after Community Safety Rangers found he had chopped down a live Jarrah tree.

The maximum penalty is up to $5000 if prosecuted through the courts.

“The Shire understands that people want to stay warm by their fireplace, however there will be a no tolerance approach to residents chopping down trees on Shire land or reserves,” Mr Throssell said.

“Accessing such land and reserves causes significant damage to local flora.

“Residents can collect firewood from designated Department of Parks and Wildlife collection points or from private property with permission.”

Land in the shire may be under the control of the Shire, Department of Parks and Wildlife or Water Corporation. Residents who are unsure of whose land it is can contact the Shire for clarification.

People can collect a maximum of one tonne of fallen wood every sixty days from designated Department of Parks and Wildlife collection points. Current winter collection points are east of Jarrahdale and east of Dwellingup.

Permits can be obtained from the Department of Parks and Wildlife offices: 17 Dick Perry Avenue Technology Park, Western Precinct, Kensington P: 9219 9000 E: info@dpaw.wa.gov.au W: www.dpaw.wa.gov.au.

Shire of Mundaring Community Safety Ranger Damian with illegally chopped trees

TIME TO WINTERISE YOUR POOL

COOLER NIGHTS

GEOFF FRANCIS

GEOFF FRANCIS

L

ast month I spoke of the importance of correct chainsaw chain tension.

This of course goes hand in hand with correct lubrication of the chain. Correct “Tacky” oil is essential for the lubrication of every tiny bearing in the moving chain, not just the drive links in the groove.

Now even more important is correct oil in the fuel oil mix. ie. the two stroke fuel mix.

Many years ago, when engines were far “looser”, or in other words, tolerances in the rings and piston were not as tight, any old engine oil would do for the two stroke mix.

In any case a lot more oil was used. Fifty years ago the mix was half a pint of oil to one gallon of petrol. Those old enough to remember that there were eight pints to the gallon, can work out the ratio of 16 to 1.

Now, we have higher performance engines burning less fuel and producing far more power, the ratio is as weak as 50:1. Hence correct two stroke lubricant does become critical. If you want your machine to last, especially if it is a higher compression quality machine, use the correct oil as recommended by the manufacturer. Not just the cheapest oil on the shelf.

Too much oil in the mix can do damage to an engine, though not usually as bad as too little .

Excess oil wil cause carbon build up in exhaust ports, possible damage to the cylinder and piston and more commonly blocking up of the exhaust, hence a drop in power.

As the old advert used to say;”Oils ain’t oils, Soll !”

Courtesy of Eastern Hills Saws and Mowers

C

ooler weather means the outdoor pool is used less, so preparing for winter or “winterizing” your pool is important.

A little bit of care and maintenance over the cooler months will save you a lot of money when the warmer days return. (And I have it on good authority that they will).

Correct application of the correct algeacide will kill and control; Algae blooms during winter.

This means a stain free pool and a much easier start up in spring.

There are now available Winteriser formulae which last up to ninety days with no harmful side effects.

It makes sense to talk to your local pool shop for advice on the latest pool treatments available to see what is compatible with treatments used in your pool, no matter how big or small.

Courtesy of Eastern Hills Pools Supplies

SAWS AND MOWERS

cnr

Grt Est Hwy & Chipper St, Mundaring

9295 2466

~ Sales ~ Spares ~

Repairs 13

COMMUNITY TRANSITION LAUNCH

PLAY REVIEW HAYLEY DERWORT

JIM THOM

T

he Heath Ledger Theatre has housed several quality shows in its short life span.

But with the recent opening of A Streetcar Named Desire, written by known playwright Tennessee Williams, the theatre’s reputation has exceeded itself.

The show, set in 1940’s southern America, tells the tale of Blanche Dubois and her gradual slip from reality after a series of personal meltdowns following the suicide of her husband in his youth.

The home of her sister, Stella and her husband Stanley Kowalski is the set for this show.

This was achieved in this production by having the two story apartment block floating in the middle of the stage, allowing the actors to utilise the space outside the house to improvise in interesting ways.

Rustic and fashionable was the theme that was carefully woven throughout the cramped set which added a deeper level to the show.

The show starred Sigrid Thornton as Blanche, an Australian talent well-known for her compelling and emotional performances.

Fern Pendragon explains Transition (Photo by Jim Thom)

O

As Blanche, Thornton provided a jarring and raw performance that sent shivers up the spine of the audience.

Co-stars Jo Morris and Nathaniel Dean also gave incredible performances as the spitfire couple Stella and Stanley. Also notable was Luke Hewitt who portrayed the sweet, doting Harold Mitchell who was determined to win Blanche’s heart, unknowing of the pain and desperation that lay beneath it.

A commendable and raw performance that is a must see for fans of Williams and those who appreciate Thornton’s acting style.

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ver one hundred people attended the launch of Mundaring in Transition at the Hub on Saturday 12th April.

Transition is an exciting new international movement that is rapidly growing in Australia.

There are already well over a thousand groups in forty-five different countries with several springing up in the Perth metropolitan area.

Transition is the process by which a community shifts to a lower energy future, shops locally and generally becomes more resilient and sustainable.

One of the features of transition is the formation of interest or action groups on topics of interest to the community such as waste reduction, cycling or renewable energy.

This enables many members of the community, from young to old, to be involved in areas of particular interest to them.

The event showcased some of the many groups in the Shire that are already doing the work of Transition such as the Glen Forrest Community Garden, Hills Sustainability Group, Hills Local Permaculture Group, Mundaring Organic Growers Group, Men of the Trees and Swan Hills LETS. Peter Holland hosted the event and there were presentations from the Shire President Helen Dullard, Alan Pilgrim chair of the EMRC, Professor Ray Wills, Curtin University and Simone van Hattem from Conservation Council of WA. These presenters provided an overview of the work the Shire is already involved with in relation to conservation and climate change and confirmed that an ongoing commitment will be needed over future years. Prof Wills provided an optimistic note.

History shows that new inventions rapidly replace older, less efficient ones. Prof Wills

used the example of the horse and buggy being replaced by the motor car. Australia is a leader in the uptake of new technologies and it is likely that new electric vehicles and renewable energy systems will rapidly swamp our markets making the combustion engine and coal fired electricity generation obsolete.

The excellent turnout and enthusiastic participation of those who attended suggests that the time is ripe for Transition. Many of us who are concerned about climate change and dwindling resources are unsure what action to take and anything we do as individuals can seem insignificant.

However a community coming together to do these things provides mutual support and engenders a sense of optimism which in turn can fuel further energy for change.

Additional evidence that community spirit is already strong in Mundaring was provided by the fact that the event was funded entirely by local sponsorship.

Thanks go to the Bendigo Bank and the Shire of Mundaring as our major sponsors. Thanks also to The Mundaring Wellness Centre, the Soul Tree Cafe in Glen Forrest, the Parkerville Tavern, the Breadwinners Bakehouse Bakery, Bolt Coffee and the Mundaring branch of Rotary.

This is the beginning of Mundaring in Transition and the start of a project that may continue for several decades.

The next community event being planned is a visioning session to produce an Energy Descent Action Plan – a Transition concept whereby the community considers how best to adapt to a lower energy future. It is hoped this will be sometime in August.

To contact Mundaring in Transition go to the website www.mundaringintransition.org.au.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Dear Sir: The ABC Bias Towards Republicanism by Stealth We are again concerned at the extreme bias of the ABC in broadcasting an interview with the director of the Australian Republican Movement who was blatantly allowed to promote his republican agenda to ABC viewers without any challenge whatsoever. (ABC Breakfast 11/3/14) Whenever monarchists establish new groups or announce new campaigns, the ABC takes little or generally no notice, but in the instance of republicans giving a talk opposing our constitutional arrangements, the ABC provided them with an inordinate amount of airtime.

In the matter of our allegiance, no mention was made that we swear allegiance to the Queen because: · We are a constitutional monarchy with the Queen as our sovereign head of state · The people voted on this issue in 1999 and rejected a republic · Swearing allegiance to the Queen is swearing allegiance to the people of Australia, to our laws, our institutions and to our governance.

No mention was also made that that there has been nearly twenty-five years of discussion on this issue with ten years of intense debate and yet the republicans want more.

According to a 2008 Federal Court of Canada judgment: “Allegiance to the King means allegiance to the Country, as Beauchense’s Rules and Forms of the House of Commons of Canada states. More recently, O’Brien and O’Bosc have reiterated the same principle.”

That Canadian Federal Court judgement deals with the issue of allegiance in great detail and as both Australia and Canada are constitutional monarchies, its rulings are applicable to Australia as well: When Members swear or solemnly affirm allegiance to the Queen as Sovereign of Australia, they are also swearing or solemnly affirming allegiance to the institutions [that] the Queen represents, including the concept of democracy.

The “Queen of Australia” has an objective legal meaning. The Queen personifies the Crown of Australia and represents the country in both political senses of the word (the State and the people), as well as lawful executive and legislative authority.

The Queen of Australia is a separate legal person from the Queen of the United Kingdom.

Australia is a sovereign, independent state. The Crown is not a foreign institution – it has always formed an integral part of Australia’s constitution and heritage.

The oath or affirmation of allegiance to the Queen therefore reflects Australia’s constitutional

monarchy and legal-constitutional position. the Police and the Courts will not know who the Our Australian Constitution vests executive real criminal is. authority in the Queen and establishes the This will also lead to the development of Crown-in-Parliament as the Queen, Senate, and vigilante groups and eventual anarchy and finally House of Representatives. A bill only becomes to civil war. law upon Royal Assent, and an order-in-council This will happen. or proclamation is only promulgated with the I cannot say when, but history has proven this scenario time and time again and will continue to Crown’s approval.

In order to become a naturalized citizen of do so. the United States, one must “bear true faith and Terrance Weston JP allegiance” to “the Constitution and the laws of Belmont WA the United States”, because that document forms Historical note: the basis of all legislative, executive, and judicial The convicts that helped settle Australia 200 authority in and over the United States of America. years ago, for the most part were convicted for as Americans do not pledge allegiance to the United little as stealing a loaf of bread to feed their family.

States per se.

The same scenario can be traced back through In Australia, we profess our loyalty to a the ages, think of the legends that surround that person who represents all Australians and not to a of Robin Hood of the 12th century, and the then document such as a constitution, a banner such as government attending to the crusades (think a flag, or a geopolitical entity such as a country. In Afghanistan today), and the corrupt officials our constitutional monarchy, these elements are taxing men women and children when they had encompassed by the Sovereign (Queen or King). nothing to give.

It is a remarkably simple yet powerful principle: The people resorted to living outside of the Australia is personified by the Sovereign just as law at their own peril. Nothing has changed in the Sovereign is personified by Australia. over 1000 years.

In any country an oath affirmation of allegiance should represent the present legal- Editor: The remarks referenced above by Mr constitutional position and must be universal – Weston by recently retired Judge Pullin were the oath does not reflect a normative aspiration those warning ‘that “great injustices” would be for what republicans want the constitution caused by the proposed mandatory sentencing to become. As long as Australia remains a laws being considered by State Parliament.’ constitutional monarchy, pledging allegiance to For the official view see ‘Notes From the Sovereign will continue to mean pledging Parliament’ on page 7. allegiance to the country.

This is but another attempt to chip away at SO, WE’D BETTER SORT THE SHARKS OUT FIRST the legal-constitutional framework and historical tradition of Australia through republicanism by stealth and should not be given the airtime that the ABC has done, particularly without any right of reply.

Philip Benwell National Chair Australian Monarchist League -oOoDear Sir, Somewhere, someone will realise how wrong they are and especially with the debate over the National Audit and upcoming Budgets, and those of comments by recent retired Judge Pullin.

Be warned, Current and New legislation budget proposals by both state and federal governments will cause an increase in crime.

The lack of support to victims of crime by the legislature will even see these persons revert to a criminal act of retribution, to the eventual point that 15

BOOKS AND WRITING

PEACEFUL PATHWAYS TO CONFLICT RESOLUTION BASIC WORKSHOP

MIDLAND June 7th and 8th This is an interactive workshop to help participants discover new and creative ways of responding to conflict situations and build community.

Trained facilitators from the Alternatives to Violence Project W.A. Inc. run these workshops in the community, schools and prisons.

There is an increasing number of requests for workshops in schools and prisons, so we hope there are some people who are retired or on flexitime who would like to become facilitators and help with this important work.

People who would like to do the workshop for their own personal development are also very welcome. We all have the potential for violence in some form or other. The program is experiential, uplifting and fun. All facilitators and participants are volunteers.

For further information or registration forms please ring 9299 6788 or email sallyherzfeld@ozemail.com.au.

Or check our website on avpwa.org.

R

RACHAEL BERMINGHAM

achael Bermingham is an Australian entrepreneur, author, public speaker, mentor and former TV personality and hairdresser.

Rachael has written seven bestselling books (six self-published and one published) since 2006. Her books are nearing sales of four million copies.

Rachael's first book Read My Lips was written with co-authors Cyndi O'Meara, Jodie McIver, Fleur Whelligan, Kim Morrison, and Allison Mooney, and released in 2006.

Rachael's second book 4 Ingredients was cowritten with Kim McCosker (Turnbull), as were the following books within the series, 4 Ingredients 2, 4 Ingredients Gluten Free, 4 Ingredients Fast, Fresh & Healthy and 4 Ingredients Kids.

Rachael's fifth book was a mini-book entitled How To Write Your Own Book & Make It A Bestseller, a bestselling book upon release, it has

KSP - WHAT’S ON LEAP OFF THE STARTING BLOCK AND ONTO THE PAGE Sat 31 May, 1-4pm This three-hour workshop is aimed at the beginner writer, and will offer practical exercises to get you started on ideas, sidestep the inner critic and explore inner creative worlds. The emphasis is on getting words on the page that participants can later develop. $30 for KSP-members, $45 for nonmembers THE FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS FESTIVAL Sat 7 June Swan View Youth Centre The Festival this year will focus on making your dreams come true. The two feature events with special guest Rachael Bermingham have been specially designed to uplift, inspire and help you find your passion and achieve financial success.

Marketing Workshop 1-4pm

You need not have a finished book or product on sale right now but if you have an idea you do need a plan to market it to make

16

now been transformed into a home-study program for aspiring authors.

Bermingham has also previously appeared on the TV show 4 Ingredients, which now airs in twentythree countries including Australia, Africa, UK and New Zealand.

In 2010, Rachael launched her own book distribution and education company (Bermingham Books) and mentors authors on how to write, publish and promote their own titles.

Rachael lives on Australia's Sunshine Coast and has three sons who travel extensively with her around the globe speaking and promoting her books.

She will be appearing at the Follow Your Dreams Festival on the 7th June, 2014 organised by the KSP Writers Centre.

A dapted from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareA like License

your dreams of success come true. This workshop is for anyone seeking tips to better market a brand, product or service.

Participants will work through a range of strategies for success and learn about Rachael’s journey from poverty to becoming a multi-million dollar author and business woman. $35 members, $50 others.

Cocktail Evening 7-10pm An evening of live cabaret, canapés, giveaways and an inspirational keynote speech by Rachael Bermingham. Rachael is known for her zest for life, her energy and dynamic personality, and the ability to motivate people into action. Her speeches have been acclaimed as ‘entertaining’ and ‘unforgettable’.

You will receive a complimentary drink upon arrival and are welcome to bring your own drinks for the remainder of the evening.

Book early so you don’t miss out. $50 KSP-members, $65 Non-members.

Booking and payment in advance to 08 9294 1872 / kspf@iinet.net.au.

BOOKS AND WRITING BANKER JOHN - REVIEW SELF-PUBLISHING

ROXY CALLAHAN he name Edgecombe can hardly be a strange one to West Australians. Edgecombe Brothers in Upper Swan has been supplying dried fruit, wine and latterly asparagus to Sandgropers for decades.

The original brothers were Don and Frank Edgecombe and the base company was formed in the late 1920s.

B e t w e e n them the two Edgecombe brothers fathered the current generation of brothers running the family firm - Wally*, Alf and John. The company at the time wasn’t big enough to support them all with their familes and so John went into the other family business - The Bank of New South Wales.

The family patriarch, George Edwin Edgecombe, worked at the Bank in London late in the 18th century until he migrated to Western Australia after retirement.

John, or as he later became better known to radio audiences ‘Banker John’, went to Guildford Grammar before starting in the bank, beginning as was then the custom, in the smaller branches of country towns.

His life, which he has now written, is a perfect example of life in Western Australia in the latter half of the last century.

You might think that it might be boring - after all, banking is not that exciting, but you would be wrong.

Written in a chatty, relaxed, informal style Banker John is John’s story, told by himself, as he might at a particularly good dinner party.

He was heavily involved in sport of all kinds, foiled a bank robbery, made banking history by becoming popular, went on air often, sold huge amounts of mints for Lions, lived all over rural Western Australia and in Papua New Guinea and raised a family.

His approach to banking is a revelation to those of us who only know banking in this century immediately before and after the Global Financial Crisis.

The book is profusely illustrated with documents, black and white and coloured photographs and includes a photograph of the Ellen Brook in full flood, something very seldom seen.

Copies of the book are available from the author by emailing edgecombejn@eftel.net.au.

The book costs $20 plus postage.

If you are at all interested in Western Australia, character, personal stories or a goodish read, you can’t go past Banker John.

Recommended.

Editor: Sadly, Wally Edgecombe has passed on since this was written.

DOUGLAS SUTHERLAND-BRUCE

I

t wasn’t that long ago that self-publishing had the disparaging name ‘vanity publishing’ and critics wouldn’t review the books and book shops wouldn’t sell them.

All of that has gradually changed over the past few years as electronic publishing has gained ground and traditional print publishers have become more marginal and less able or willing to take chances with new authors.

As the print book market shrinks due to a decline in readership and becomes polarised into block-buster authors such as Terry Pratchett, JK Rowling, George RR Martin and so on there is less and less room for new, untried, authors as Publishing Houses minimise their shareholders’ risks.

In 2003, for example, 9.6% of sales of books in the UK were either Pratchett or Rowling, that’s one book in every ten sold.

Over the same time there have been a number of what we might fairly call self-publishing success stories.

Rachael Bermingham (who is featured on the opposite page) self-published her first six books and sales are currently approaching four million copies.

Christopher Paolini was only about seventeen when his family decided to self-publish his first book (written at fifteen, revised at sixteen) sales were slow to begin with but the book was picked up by a publishing house and sales have now topped thirty-three million copies and a hugely profitable movie.

Other, some surprising, self-published successes in books are: Irma Rombauer wrote The Joy of Cooking, with her daughter in 1931. Ms. Rombauer printed three thousand copies and sold them at a dollar a book. Over the years the book has sold over eighteen million copies.

John Grisham, a Southern lawyer, wrote his

first novel, A Time To Kill in 1989. After twentyeight rejections, he self-published five thousand copies. As of 2012 his books have sold over 275 million copies.

James Redfield self-published his first novel, The Celestine Prophecy, in 1992. He sold the book one copy at a time out of the boot of his car. It was later acquired by Warner Books, became a number one bestseller and has sold in excess of twenty million copies.

Beatrix Potter’s story The Tales of Peter Rabbit, was rejected several times. She self-published in 1901. Over two million Beatrix Potter books are sold each year.

Amanda Hocking wrote seventeen novels while working in Minnesota. She self-published them all as e-books, selling more than a million copies. In 2011, she sold the rights for a reported two million dollars.

E.L. James has sold more than seventy million copies of her Fifty Shades trilogy worldwide. She wrote Fifty Shades of Grey and self-published it as an eBook and print-on demand.

Ronald H. Balson wrote Once We Were Brothers and self-published 750 hardcovers that sat in his living room for months, selling them (as well as e-books) one at a time. It had sold 100,000 copies before St. Martin’s Press acquired the rights and will re-publish.

So it can be done and it can be successful. But how do you go about it?

We will be looking at the various steps in coming months, but as a teaser let me just say that a book of two hundred pages in a softback A5 format with no colour plates can cost as little to print as $6, if you print 1,000 or more, so less than you might think.

The trick is making them look professional and saleworthy and then getting them out of your garage onto other people’s bookshelves.

Courtesy of Swinburne Press

BANKER JOHN

Have a book to publish?

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

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

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

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EDUCATION

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GUILDFORD GRAMMAR SCHOOL NEWS VISIT BY FOOTBALL GREATS

The Guildford Grammar School football community was joined by AFL great Darren Harris, Larry Kickett, Gavin Bell and Luke Miles at their recent jersey presentation.

Darren Harris is a former West Perth WAFL player and coach who has worked as an assistant coach at the West Coast Eagles and development manager at the Carlton Football Club.

SCHOOL TOURS If you are interested in learning more about an education at Guildford Grammar School, contact our Registrar today on 9377 9247 or registrar@ggs. wa.edu.au to arrange a personal tour.

Guildford Grammar School www.ggs.wa.edu.au

Luke Miles (Sc 99-03) is an Old Larry Kickett is an Old Guildfordian Guildfordian who played in the WAFL for (He 70-72) who played 227 WAFL games Swan Districts before being drafted by the for East Perth and Claremont and is a life St Kilda Football Club. He won the 2010 member at the East Perth Royals.

AFL Grand Final Sprint and has returned to the WAFL. He was selected to carry the torch for the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games and HEAD OF THE SENIOR SCHOOL now serves as a member for the Western RECEIVES DOCTORATE Australian Football Commission and Congratulations to Dr Clayton Massey, an Aboriginal Mentor and Community who has this week been formally Advisor for Chevron Australia. awarded his Doctor of Education following completion of his PhD Gavin Bell is a former West Perth WAFL studies. player and Colts coach. He was selected as Dr Massey recently presented at the the WA State 16’s Coach before moving on 21st Century Academic Forum at to become development coach for the West Harvard University, resulting in Coast Eagles in 2008. strong interest in our innovative Catalyst curriculum.

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CARE AND FEEDING OF YOUR PC But that anonymity comes at the expense of browsing speed. Sometimes sites can load veeeeery slooooowly. This is because your connection traffic is routed through many other Tor users’ PCs. An alternative is to install the HTTPS Everywhere add-on for Firefox and Chrome browsers. (I’ve long since pushed the Firefox barrow in this column because you really should have stopped using Internet Explorer long ago.)

This add-on sets up an encrypted tunnel between you and the sites you visit. Why? So others cannot intercept and decipher that signals traffic.

However, it won’t hide your IP address from hope you’ve recovered from last month’s the destination site. Nor will it prevent others revelations. knowing which sites you’re visiting.

Now I don’t know about you, but I am most But it will prevent Wi-Fi snoops and others definitely not a terrorist. Nor am I a religious from ‘reading’ your communications. nutter who thinks becoming a mass murderer would please my god.

ANONYMOUS SEARCH ENGINE Sadly, our privacy has become a major casualty Google has questionable data retention in push for increasingly intrusive surveillance. policies. And it has been named as a participant So I resent any attempts – no matter how well in the PRISM program, part of whistleblower meant -- to monitor my activities both on and Snowden’s revelations. offline.

There are alternatives. I previously As an innocent citizen I reserve the right recommended DuckDuckGo.com as it uses its to counter intrusive online surveillance of my own web crawler, and – unlike Google – it keeps activities on principle. no records of web searches.

Oh, and don’t expect governments to be Startpage.com gives Google results but your sympathetic to your concerns. It’s very much a search itself it made anonymous. matter of self-help and carrying out your own form of resistance.

You want close to 100 percent privacy?

Easy. Toss out your mobile phone. Avoid any form of wireless communications. Sell your router. And stay off the internet.

Somehow I suspect that’s not going to happen… So let’s move to looking at more realistic options!

YOUR PRIVACY IS A JOKE (PART 2 OF 2)

I

INSTALL AND USE A SECURE BROWSER The free Tor Browser, a stripped down version of Firefox from www.torproject.org, is part of the long established Tor network.

Its ‘onion routing’ technique basically means your connections are relayed through several other computers to obscure your IP. This then makes tracking back to you just about impossible.

To further obscure connections and provide anonymity Tor offers a range of other services and add-ons for messaging and emails.

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Consider instead the CryptoCat add-on for Firefox, Chrome and Safari. With it your chat in your browser window is secured from eavesdroppers – government agencies or otherwise.

A more secure alternative to Skype is Jitsi, an open-source, multi-platform application. With it you can encrypt all your video and voice calls, and your instant messaging.

SECURE EMAIL There are several encryption options but I have to tell you they are not easy to use.

GnuPG, Gpg4win and Enigmail are major contenders. Good luck. You’ll need it if you really, really want secure email.

FILE ENCRYPTION Hackers, thieves, nosey visitors – all could easily access your files and documents if they want to.

The popular, free TrueCrypt uses virtual drives to encrypt your files. Once installed it works on-the-fly. All you have to do is feed it occasional passwords you’ll need to subsequently decrypt your data.

As for individual files you can send them to your Dropbox. Or use 7-Zip, a free compression tool, that offers a very strong encryption option.

SECURE PASSWORDS Yes, a vexed issue. (Hope you change yours every month.)

Firefox has its own password manager where your password vault is protected by a master password Lastpass is free, simple and easy-to-use. To use it you only need to remember your master password. It supports automatic passwordgeneration (and retention) for many sites, automatic form filling and an onscreen keyboard All search results go through the Startpage to stymie keyloggers that have insinuated web service – not Google, who has no idea who themselves onto your PC. Keepass is another free option. Your password performed the search.

Furthermore, Startpage keeps no records of vault is protected by a master password. It also offer advanced features you can mix’n’match to IP addresses or search queries. satisfy your requirements.

THE CHATTERING MASSES The Prism hitlist includes Skype, Google, SOME guy bought a new fridge for his Facebook, Microsoft and Yahoo so your instant house. To get rid of the old fridge, he put messaging through them most certainly is not it in his front yard and hung a sign on it private. saying: "Free to good home. You want it, you take it."

For three days the fridge sat there without even one person looking twice at it.

He eventually decided that people were too un-trusting of this deal. It looked to good to be true, so he changed the sign to read: "Fridge for sale $50." That night someone stole it.

FINANCE ACTIVE VERSUS PASSIVE INVESTING STEVE BLIZARD

O

ne of the longest-running financial debates focuses upon on whether it is better to invest in funds that are actively managed versus “passive” index funds.

This debate was recently given an additional boost when the world’s best known active manager, Warren Buffett, suggested in his latest annual Berkshire Hathaway letter that most investors would be better off investing passively and that he intended to place the vast majority of his huge estate into a very low cost Standard & Poor’s 500 stock-index fund.

Buffett is a long-time fan of Vanguard Group’s Jack Bogle, who champions low-cost index investing.

But this is the first time, Bogle said in an email exchange with Reuters, that Buffett was, to use that old cliché, "putting his money where his mouth is in his own estate."

Sadly this debate is often reduced to an overly simplistic level where investors are forced to choose between an index or an active approach only, with no mixing of the two being possible or desirable.

Even Buffet seems to indicate that only smart investors such as him should invest actively, and that most "ordinary" investors should simply hold index funds.

More worryingly, the discussion is often divorced from practical portfolio implications, resulting in major misunderstandings and unnecessary inflexibility.

Active fund managers maintain they add value to investors from the stocks they specifically select, compared to a broad stock market index, typically market capitalisation weighted.

This added value is referred to as “alpha”.

Supporters of index investing often include those who believe it is too difficult to consistently exploit inefficiencies in stock markets.

Believers in an index investment approach maintain that the most powerful "proof" is that US mutual funds [or Australian managed funds], on average, have underperformed the stock market index.

However, under-performance in a majority, but not all categories of the "average" managed fund, proves little about market efficiency or the ability of certain managers to outperform consistently.

At Roxburgh, while our research of active fund managers reveals a core group of managers who can outperform the relevant index, there are many other managers who underperform.

This poor performance is often due to large components of their portfolios shadowing the index.

A study of equity fund managers has also identified other reasons for this underperformance.

In the March 2009 version of their paper titled, Best Ideas, Randy Cohen, Christopher Polk, and Bernhard Silli, attempted to identify which holdings in equity mutual fund portfolios represented the high-conviction, “Best Ideas”, of various fund managers and then measured the performance of those stocks after the conviction becomes apparent.

They found that US mutual fund managers with the highest conviction ideas did indeed outperform.

However this “alpha” was offset by also holding a larger range of stocks, many of which performed more poorly.

In their view, they found that investors would benefit if mutual fund managers held more concentrated portfolios.

A $10,000 investment in Warren Buffet’s actively managed Berkshire Hathaway stock in 1965 would have grown to be worth nearly $30 million by 2005.

That's about sixty times as much as you would have made if you'd invested $10,000 in the Standard & Poor's 500 Index and held it for those same forty years.

Interestingly, recent analysis of Warren Buffet's performance shows that while he has delivered significant outperformance “alpha” since 1965, even he has not added any value over four of the last five years, despite enjoying some unique post-GFC deals.

This suggests that index funds can underperform actively managed funds, depending on the particular time frame in question.

At Roxburgh, we research and talk to smart managers, so as to understand their strategy and how they achieved their returns.

There’s no rule that says you must invest entirely in active or index funds across portfolios, or that you can't mix the two approaches and change the mix over time.

For example, in Australia, small-cap managers have consistently outperformed the index over longer term time frames due largely to the limited research coverage in that area.

There is clearly a place for both active and index funds in portfolios without ending up with an incoherent investment philosophy.

Indeed, our willingness at Roxburgh to recommend index funds at times ensures we are continually looking for active fund managers with the conviction that they can add extra value.

Courtesy of Roxburgh Securities

POETRY TO PEN OR NOT TO PEN TARJA HETTONNEN

Tthe page

he power of a pen, as ink flows across

The letters become words, putting thoughts into solid form The words turn into sentences, paragraphs and chapters Forever immortalized, from a mere mortal soul Once down they can now be ignored or retold Once written they have already grown old The pen moves forward, the mind ponders Then both come to a sudden block But I want to know more! I need an end The story was unfolding but the pen was not Blank was the page, clean and white Pen at the ready but no thoughts in sight It is true that the pen is mightier than the sword Then it follows the pen can make you bleed, make you soar It can make you laugh, make you hurt, make you cry Make you wonder, why on earth, why?

Why did I pick up that pen in the first place?

When all it has lead to is a blank open space.

W

herever you see this symbol you will be able to get more information by scanning it with your smartphone, laptop or iPad. The relevant can be downloaded free from your App Store.

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NETWORKING WITH LESLEY MANAGING CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS

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here is a world of difference between managing the expectations your customer may have, based on their perception of price, time and the value of the product you will deliver, and the expectation you create in the customer, yourself.

There is nowhere else, in the sales process, that business fail more often – than when they create a false sense of expectation in the customer, which, later, they will be unable to satisfy.

When you first engage as the provider of a service or a product, your customer will have a perception of what they can expect and have already subconsciously decided at what level of delivery, unbeknown to you, you will be marked as a success or a fail.

This level of delivery is built around three criteria and is something you need to clearly determine and define with your customer, if you are to have a fair chance of being regarded as a “success”. You do want to have your name bandied about as someone upon whom their friends can rely, rather than the opposite.

Customer expectations range around three key criteria: time (delivery), value (perceived), and price (comparative). If they need something in a hurry, they will often pay a little more, because time is of greater value to them in that instance, than price.

If it is not, they may be prepared to forego a speedy delivery in favour of a lower price, if there is no perceived reduced value. It is quite common in business to expect customers to be prepared to accept this trade off – and your job in managing

MCC WE’RE GROWING

GEOFF FRANCIS he recent Chamber of commerce breakfast held at Murphy’s cafe in Mundaring was addressed by a very interesting speaker, Lielani Leyland from Bees Neez Apairies in Chidlow.

Lielani is an award winner from the 2013 Mundaring Chamber of commerce business awards and gave an excellent presentation on the habits of bees and their importance in our environment. (I’m not sure that I’d want to lead the life of a bee!)

Coming up the Chamber is organising a social bowls evening at Mundaring Sporting club on Sunday 18th May. This should be a good opportunity to have a bit of fun while getting to know your fellow business operators in the hills.

The chamber is growing steadily with quite a few more local businesses, home based and otherwise coming on board.

In June a Breakfast is being planned for Wed 11th June.

If you are a local small business operator in the hills area, I suggest you consider joining the Chamber of commerce to meet other business people, share ideas and have a voice with local and state governments.

T

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LESLEY DEWAR their expectations is to determine which of those three is least likely to cause you a loss of business, if it is not met.

Creating an unrealistic expectation in your customer arises when you fail to recognize any one of these three factors and how it will affect your customer relationship.

Time: Failing to initially advise or confirm a delivery time for the product or service, especially if the actual delivery is outside your control or is likely to be unacceptable to the customer.

Promising delivery times which you cannot meet Ignoring delivery promises that are not met, and failing to keep your customer informed.

Suggesting to the customer they are being unrealistic in their expectations, if you have not made delivery times clear.

Value: Failing to understand how important the product or service being bought is, to the customer.

Ignoring the likelihood of comparative pricing by the customer and assuming they will buy without cross checking your prices, as part of their value process.

Suggesting to the customer they are being unrealistic if they think they can get a better price, elsewhere.

Suggesting to the client that their desired product is old fashioned, out of vogue, no longer available or simply unsuitable for the task described, when you wish to offer an alternative you have available.

Suggesting to the client that they do not have the skills required to tell you accurately what they need or want.

Price: Being careless, when quoting a price for a product or service, rather than ensuring the price quoted is the price the customer will pay, when they buy.

Failing to advise the customer of small, but essential items, without which the product or service will not function at a reasonable level of performance and which have to be purchased separately.

Failing to ensure you have a full understanding of the client’s needs, before you quote them a price for complete delivery.

In the last weeks of April, your writer had the need of an urgent renovation of a bathroom, and a kitchen / dining room in a unit in Mandurah. It has been a most salutary experience – in terms of customer service received and customer expectations met – or not.

On the time issue, for a tiny kitchen, it was a joke. First, meticulous measurements had to be checked by their (external, contracted) team.

Cost: $99.

Next, assuming your measurements were correct, the kitchen design upon which you and their in-store consultant had agreed (using their 3D design programme for machined flat pack

cupboards) had to be checked by their contracted design team.

This is to get a “suggested” cost for installation and ensure the cupboards would actually fit into the (already checked) space. They provide their team with a detailed perspective from their 3D design computer programme, against which they can check it, on site. Cost: $145.

It took no fewer than five visits to the store – with the initial space measurements never changing, to get to this point.

Having agreed and paid for their “design team” to visit the site, we were then told it could take up to ten weeks for installation, after the design team had been to check the layout. That could be another week.

Since they were aware during the whole of the discussions that getting the kitchen changed was a matter of urgency, this was a huge FAIL in terms of customer expectations on the time factor.

Initially, we accepted we might have to move into the unit and have the kitchen installation done after we had taken occupancy – although this was far from ideal nor the original plan. Why? In terms of value and comparative price, their finished product was clearly the best we had been able to find. We had price shopped, thoroughly.

There were some other major failures, in managing the customer’s expectations, too. The first price quoted for the desired design was about $800 short of the actual price, because of staff oversights.

When staff changeovers took place during the late afternoon, the design layout was not completed properly, and thus had not been submitted to the “design team”.

A complaint was to be ignored for forty-eight hours, because the staff person handing “the file” had gone home and was going to be away for the next day on their RDO. However, the greatest FAIL of this new, national hardware chain, occurred when their Customer Service Manager came down from her ivory tower to discuss my increasing list of issues.

On the question of how long it takes to measure, assemble, and install flat pack, D.I.Y. furniture, and my clear indication that ten weeks was not acceptable, she said to me “Well, this is WA! We have to be prepared to Wait Awhile”!

This is not acceptable, and she was told that, in unmistakable terms.

That was the Thursday before Anzac Day. By the following Wednesday, I had organized a team of tradies, (plumber, tiler, electrician, carpenter, cabinetmaker), received quotes and had both the kitchen and bathroom stripped.

By the end of second week in May, along with a tiled kitchen/dining room floor and new built in wardrobes, they will be finished. My Mother’s Day present will be my new kitchen and bathroom.

It’s all about managing expectations – to ensure the customer gets at least two out of three: price, value, and time.

I am in fact getting all three, managing the customer’s expectations myself.

COMMUNITY FORMER HILLS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT WINS

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n orchestral work composed by former Eastern Hills Senior high school student, Olivia Davies, has won the Perth Symphony Orchestra’s inaugural statewide composer’s competition.

Her piece, Ferchensee (Ferchen Lake), was inspired by the beautiful lakes and imposing mountains of Bavaria, Southern Germany, and was performed by the Perth Symphony Orchestra as part of their annual Symphony by the Lake on March 8, 2014.

The piece is a delicate mixture of memory and imagination, Olivia says. “My mother is German, and growing up we visited Germany a number of times, taking the train down to Bavaria. The piece is based on my memories of this special place but also indulges in a bit of embellishment as I imagine what it's like now.”

Olivia won the competition after just one semester studying music composition at the University of Western Australia.

This is Olivia's first orchestral work and it will be her first piece performed by an orchestra.

Olivia graduated from Eastern Hills Senior High School in 2005 after completing her TEE which included music studies in flute and piano.

Whilst she attended the high school, she was a member of the Eastern Hills SHS Concert band and the Eastern Hills SHS Jazz band.

Eastern Hills Senior High School has an excellent, long-standing reputation for its music program.

This was formally recognised in 2006 when it was listed as a music specialist school by the West

JACQUELINE OUTRED

Australian GovernmentDepartment of Education.

Olivia’s musical education started at age six when she started taking piano lessons, but she credits her parents and their love of a wide range of music genres for fostering her own interest in music.

“From early on I always loved writing my own music and exploring sounds and melodies - this often taking preference over doing a 'proper practice,” Olivia says.

After high school, Olivia studied photomedia at Edith Cowan University in Western Australia where she took several units in Film and television, often writing the soundtracks for student short films.

She is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Music (Music Composition) at the University of Western Australia where she is mentored by successful Perth-based composer James Ledger.

After completing her studies, Olivia hopes to write soundtracks for films and documentaries.

“When done well, the powerful combination of music and image is something I've always been aware of and loved,” she says.

“Writing music with character, that tells a story, and creates a mood and atmosphere is my passion.”

Conductor Jessica Gethin worked together with Olivia in rehearsals with the Perth Symphony Orchestra.

"My role as conductor is to make sure the music Olivia has heard in her mind and the imagery each phrase creates is communicated from the score to the stage," Jessica says.

"It's a fantastic opportunity for us to work with a composer who is present through the whole process."

More information on the competition and concert can be found on the Perth Symphony Orchestra’s website: http://perthsymphony. com/2013/12/16/winner-of-psos-inaugural-wacomposers-competition-announced/

NIGHT SKY MAY

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he month of May this year brings us views of four out of the five visible planets, though not all at the same time of night. Mercury's out of sight, too close to the sun for observation. Jupiter continues to be the brightest object other than the moon in the evenings.

At dusk it's in the north-western sky. It sets in the WNW around 9:30pm in early May, 8:40pm mid-month, and 8pm by month's end. On the 4th the waxing crescent moon will be just to the left of Jupiter at nightfall.

Mars is still bright but its brightness is gradually diminishing - opposition was three weeks ago and the distance between Earth and Mars is increasing as we zoom away from it on the inside lane. Earth's orbital speed is about thirty kilometre per second; Mars does about twentyfour kilometre per second. The further a planet is from the sun, the lower the orbital speed.

You'll find Mars, still noticeably orange in colour, well up in the eastern sky at nightfall in early May. As the weeks go by, its altitude increases so that by the end of the month it's high up in the NE sky at dusk. It culminates (reaches highest altitude) very high in the north at about 10:20pm at the start of the month, 9:15pm mid-month,

GREG LOWE

and 8:15pm by month's end. It sets in the west around 4:15am in early May, 3:05am mid-month, and 2:15am by the end of the month. On the 11th around 9pm the moon will be just above Mars.

Saturn's also visible at nightfall. At the start of the month it's low in the ESE as the evening twilight fades. By mid-May it's higher and easier to see, and by the end of the month it's well up in the east at dusk. Opposition is on the 11th.

That's the alignment of Sun, Earth and Saturn, in that order. It's the best period for observing an outer planet because the planet's at its closest, therefore looks its biggest and best, and is up all night. Saturn culminates high overhead around 1am in early May, midnight in mid-month, and 11pm by month's end.

Generally the clearest views of a planet (or other celestial object) will be had at culmination - it's when the shimmer of our atmosphere is minimised. In early to mid-May, Saturn is still visible at daybreak in the western sky.

By the end of the month it's setting just after 5am. In the early evening of the 14th, the moon will pass between Earth and Saturn with the result that Saturn will be occulted (hidden) from view for about an hour. Start watching

at dusk - evening twilight. Venus continues to prompt calls to the Observatory along the lines of, "What's that really bright star in the eastern sky in the early morning?". To me, it's remarkable that so many people just suddenly "discover" Venus when it's been around for ever. But we're not all astronomers, are we?

Still, from time to time I encounter someone so out of touch with things that they could easily be people of the dark ages, believing that the Earth is the centre of the universe.

Anyway, Venus, the "morning star" if you will, rises in the east at about 3:40am in early May. Then its rising time gradually gets later: about 4am midmonth and 4:20am by the end of the month. On the 25th and 26th, Venus and the waning crescent moon will make a fine sight for early risers.

The moon starts the month in the waxing crescent phase, grows to first quarter (evening half moon) on the 7th, and keeps on growing to reach full phase on the night of the 13th-14th.

Then it starts to wane, with last quarter on the 21st and new moon on the 29th.

The new crescent moon should be visible in the western sky at dusk on the 30th and 31st.

Courtesy of The Perth Observatory 23

O

PETS SUCCESSFULLY ADOPTING A RESCUE DOG - PART 1

ur pounds and shelters are full of excellent, but misunderstood dogs. By misunderstood we mean most dogs are in the pound because they had owners who could not ‘speak dog’.

These owners who didn't give the dog what it instinctually needed created a dog with issues.

The two main reasons a dog develops issues are lack of exercise and lack of leadership.

Humans forget they are dealing with a canine animal and too many times do not give the canine what it needs as an animal.

When the dog does not act like that pictureperfect image they had in their minds they assume they "didn't get a good one" and they "get rid" of the dog. That's the bad news.

The good news is since dogs live in the moment—meaning they do not dwell in the past or think of the future—it is absolutely possible to take a full grown dog and start over as if it is the first day of the rest of its life.

If you do it right, you will see a totally different dog from the owners who dumped the dog at the pound saw.

Your first task is to find the right dog. This is going to take time on your part, and should begin before you even set foot in a shelter. Not every dog is a match for every human family. Decide what size dog you would like. Study the different breeds so when you get to the pound you have a general idea of what a wide variety of breeds are like.

There are two main things you should look for: the dog's energy level and the dog's dominancy level. By studying a wide variety of breeds before you get to the pound or shelter you should be able to make a more educated guess as to what type of dog will work for you.

For example, if you see a Rhodesian Ridgeback mix and you studied up on this breed you will know that it will be high energy and needs a more dominant owner.

You should choose a dog with the same or lower energy level than your own. You also need to take a serious look at your family's personality.

Are you the laid-back, not very active type or are you more authority-driven and active?

If your family is passive then a dominant dog would be a horrible match for you. If your family SAFE Saving Animals From Euthanasia (SAFE) was founded by Sue Hedley in 2003. Since then SAFE has developed branches and networks across the state.

SAFE’s dedicated work has had a positive impact on people, pets and wildlife.

SAFE’s innovative foster care program provides temporary care for animals until a permanent home is found. This means there are no cages or time lines on an animal’s life.

Your donation or bequest can ensure SAFE can continue its life saving work.

Have a look at our website: www.safe.asn.au 24

is more assertive and can provide structure you may be able to handle a more dominant type. If you are a laid-back, like to watch TV type of family then choosing a high energy dog that needs to go on daily jogs would not be a good match for you.

After you have a good general idea of what types of dogs will work for you and everyone in the house is in agreement about adopting a dog, it is time to start looking at different pounds and rescues for the right match. Do not think that you need to come home with a dog on the first day.

If you choose poorly and bring home a dog that does not match your family you may hurt the dog you are trying to save more than you are helping it. Dogs that are repeatedly returned to the pound have a higher rate of being killed in those organisations that euthanaise. Take your time and choose wisely.

Going back to the two primary reasons why dogs are given up for adoption (lack of exercise and leadership) keep in mind that most of these dogs are going to have bottled up energy that they need to burn off. Take a dog that is lacking in

K

exercise and then put it in a small cage for a few days and its stress level is going to be high.

A man who went to the pound to look at the dogs. He had reached his hand out to let a dog smell him and the dog growled. We explained that if he was stiff, facing head on, looking the dog in the eyes, and reaching forward, this is a challenge in dog language.

He needed to approach with his body to the side and not to reach forward with eye contact.

That is how you greet a dog in the pound behind a cage. It's the friendly way one dog greets the other.

You as the human are going to need to learn how to ‘speak dog.’ When greeting a dog behind a cage turn your body sideways and do not look him in the eyes. Allow him to smell you through the cage at his leisure.

Do not put your fingers through the openings of the cage. Be calm. Dogs are able to feel your emotions and they do not read human emotion the same way humans do.

Part 2 next month ...

K-K-K-KATIE

- K- K- Katie ... you’re the only ggggirl that I adore!!

Katie was found as a tiny kitten at a local primary school. For one so young and brought into SAFE by the local Ranger she was really quite friendly and not phased by by being captured and brought into a whole new world.

She has grown up in SAFEs care and is now seven months old and has been desexed, vaccinated and microchipped.

She is an independent soul who can amuse herself but at the same time she will sit at her carers feet and look for a cuddle.

She really treasures her toy mice and ping pong balls and no doubtedly considering her origins also would likely make a great “mouser!”

Katie is ready to bring joy to a new home with the gift of her kitten antics! She has shared her care with a number of cats and kittens in different foster homes and consequently would be easily assimilated into a home with resident cats.

Is there room for one more “when the moon shines over the cowshed” as she will be waiting at the “k- k- kitchen door!!”

Please open your door and let Katie find a place in your heart and home.

Call SAFE 9185 4634

COMMUNITY A RISING STAR JAN PATRICK

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he last time we looked at the career of Madison Rossen was in 2007 when she was a six year old at Mundaring Little Athletics.

She had won thirteen medals in the one season. She seemed to excel in every aspect of athletics and any objective onlooker knew then we had a little star in our midst.

However one season of Little Athletics was enough as she found her interest lay more in team sports such as basketball and netball and joined the Hills Raiders Basketball Association and Eastern Hills Netball Association.

She said she enjoyed the camaraderie associated with a team more than the individual sports associated with Little Athletics.

She started playing netball over the winter of 2008 as a seven year old, filled her summer in with cricket and then joined the Basketball Association as an eight year old playing under 10’s.

14’s. (Ed: at eight!)

The coach of the opposing team spotted her and half jokingly asked her to join their team.

The following season when Madi, as she prefers to be called, showed interest in joining their team as well as her own Under 10’s, special permission was required from the Association for her to play two grades up.

It was requested, granted and Madi then

played for her own Glen Forrest team in the Under Basketball became her 10’s and the Mundaring Club Panthers Under 14’s “first love”. Whilst playing Under 10’s a year and has continued to play both teams each season later she filled in for an absent player in the Under since.

Each year she seems to take off most of the trophies for both sports and takes each one in her stride but this year she astounded everyone by coming home with a trophy for every award.

She not only received a trophy for the Association Fairest & Best for her Panthers Under 16’s team which won the premiership and the Association runner up Fairest & Best trophy for her Under 14’s Glen Forrest team who were premiership runners up.

In addition she also won the Hills Raiders Association ‘Most Outstanding Junior Player” and the ‘Highest Individual Points Scorer.’ Both awards include all teams up to Under 18’s boys and girls combined.

She is a great team player and lives and breathes her sport. She has been approached several times

by Eastern Suns Basketball Association to play in the West Australian Basketball League, but she was only nine at the time of the first request.

She has played the odd State carnival weekend with them but her parents kindly declined the invitation to play for the entire season.

She plays for fun and the pressure of playing in a WABL team was a pressure they felt was unnecessary at such a young age but the time has come for her to now step up and next season she will join a WABL team as she is now thirteen.

Considering her achievements and skill at the age of thirteen, we can only wonder what lies ahead for this talented and dedicated young girl.

What else could we possibly say other than “Well done Madi, we’re proud of you”, a Hills Rising Star.

ROTARY BIKES, BOWLS AND BOWELS

GEOFF FRANCIS undaring's Rotary Club recently gave support Douglas Sutherland-Bruce, Swan Magzine’s food to our fellow rotarians from Osborne Park reviewer agrees with me) then please book with club in raising money for M.S. research Geoff on 0407 447 150 Not only did three of our team complete the The Rotary-run Mundaring Sunday Markets fifty kilometre bike ride along the heritage trail are going along well and we are constantly from Bakers Hill to Swanview, but several of our seeking a variety of musical entertainment for a members provided a very welcome sausage sizzle few sessions during the day. at the finish, raising a few more dollars.

Should you be able to assist please let me Our activities continued with a social bowls know (0407 447150). Rotary can pay a token evening at the Mundaring Sporting Club a couple amount, though our aim is to raise funds. of weeks ago.

Rotary sponsored Bowelscan project is on That was great fun and some of us even again. learned how to bowl correctly.

Rotary Club of Mundaring in conjunction with On the theme of helping other clubs, several Mundaring Pharmacy and Glen Forrest Pharmacy of our Mundaring group are attending a dinner have the kits available to help test for sym[toms at the King & I Thai restaurant in Guildford on of Bowel bleeding of any kind. (This is an early Thursday 15th May. symptom of possible Bowel Cancer).

The restaurant is very generously donating a Success rates of treatment are very high for big part of the evenings income to the Rotary Club Bowel Cancer IF it is caught early. of Perth's project in Cambodia.

This Rotary project aims to help the fight. Call If you would like to enjoy an evening with the in to Mundaring or Glen Forrest Pharmacy and best Thai food in Perth (my expert opinion and ask about “Bowelscan”

M

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WHAT’S ON IF YOU WOULD LIKE AN EVENT LISTED IN THIS COLUMN RING JAN ON 9298 8495 ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Glen Forrest Group Every Monday evening We meet at 7.00pm at the Glen Forrest Uniting Church, Mc Glew Rd, Glen Forrest. Call Dermot 0488 905 211 or John 0448 074 536 or the Perth Office (all hours) 9325 3566.

AUSTRALIAN BREASTFEEDING ASSOC. Discussion groups, guest speakers, morning tea. Free breastfeeding counselling. Expectant mothers, mothers, babies and children welcome.

National Breastfeeding Helpline 1800 686 2686 is a 24 hour 7 days a week service.

Swan/Mundaring Group meets every Monday, 9:30-11:30am at the Gumnuts Family Centre, 8 Mudalla Way, Koongamia. A qualified ABA counsellor is present at each meeting to give confidential information and support on breastfeeding issues. Contact Natalie 9572 4971.

Kalamunda Group meets fortnighly on a Thursday, 9:30-11:30am at the Maida Vale Baptist Church, Edney Road, High Wycombe.

Contact Jenny 9252 1996.

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

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

CANCER MORNING TEA Monday 19th May At Salvation Army Hall, Ellenbrook. Tickets $10.00. Lovely morning tea, raffles and auction.

Door Prize: Night @ Vines for two plus breakfast.

Contact Bev & Brian Chitty 9296 7640.

SWAN VALLEY SQUARES – ELLENBROOK Every Friday Night Modern Australian Square Dancing from 8.00 pm – 10.00 pm Woodlake Community Hall, 1 Highpoint Blvd, Ellenbrook. Friendly, fun and low cost. No previous experience necessary. All

26

Welcome. Contact Greg Fawell 0417 912 241 or of this event the College would like to display www.swanvalleysquares.weebly.com significant items of memorabilia from over the years (photographs, publications, anniversary HILLS CHRONIC PAIN SUPPORT GROUP items, uniforms of De La Salle College).

1st Wednesday of each month If you are able to assist with the use Hilltop Grove Estate, 1645 Jacoby Street, of these items, please call the Community Mahogany Creek. Morning tea provided, between Relations Department on 9449 0635 or email 10.30 - 12.00 noon. communityrelations@lasalle.wa.edu.au Enquiries Terina 9572 1655.

GUILDFORD MARKET THE HILLS CHOIR Third Sunday of every month Monday Evenings At Guildford Town Hall, Corner of James and Do you enjoy singing and joining with others Meadow Streets. 9am - 3pm. to make beautiful music? Come and join the Hills Situated in the heart of Guildford, within five Choir. We meet from 7.30 to 9.30pm at the Uniting minutes walking distance from the Guildford Church on Stoneville Road, Mundaring. Our 2014 Train Station, a visit to the Guildford Market is season commences on Monday 3 February. sure to please.

Contact Margie on 9295 6103 for further With a diverse and unique array of locally information. handcrafted products and produce, there will be something of interest for all.

BINGO AT ELLENBROOK From garden ornaments, homemade jams Every Tuesday evening and relishes to handmade soy candles, cards, Eyes down 7.00pm at Valley Bowls Club, Cnr bags, cushions, children’s toys, bears, baby and Maffina Parade and Cashmore Ave, Ellenbrook. children’s wear to individually designed and Lots of games and prizes. Lucky number draw. crafted glassware, jewellery and beautifully made Continuous jackpot. Bars open. Tea and biscuits wood products and so much more to tempt you. available. Enquiries Ray 6296 5580.

Sausage sizzle, live music all day.

Make a day of it, stroll around the markets and MUSTARD SEED - DISCOVERING COMPUTERS then take the time to wander about the heritage Teaching computer skills to all ages and abilities. listed town of Guildford. Enjoy a picturesque Monday afternoons - iPad and Android tablets Heritage Walk Trail or pay a visit to the antique, and Mac computing. art and craft shops along the cafe strip.

Tuesday mornings and afternoons - Windows. Enquiries: Bromwyn, 6278 4252.

Wednesday mornings - Club morning.

We are fully equipped with computers, software, THE KALAMUNDA SCOTTISH scanners, printers wi-fi broadband and projection COUNTRY DANCE GROUP (Inc) equipment. Phone 9299 7236 for information. Thursday nights Enrol now and avoid our waiting list. $3 per Which has been meeting for social dancing session. www.glenforrestuniting.org/computers/ for twenty-eight years, is running a fifteen week course of beginner classes, from 3rd April 2014.

ELLENBROOK COMMUNITY The classes will be held on at the Jack Healey WEIGHT LOSS CLUB Centre, cnr Mead Street and Canning Road, Every Wednesday evening Kalamunda from 7pm - 8pm, just prior to the We meet from 6.45pm to 8.00pm at the club’s usual social dancing night (which takes Woodlake Community Hall, Meeting room 1. place from 8pm - 10pm).

Highpoint Blvd, Ellenbrook. Friendly support You will learn the basics in a supportive group and low cost. Male and females of all ages and encouraging environment, and become welcome competent to take part in social dancing at any Contact Shirley 9276 7938 shirleysardelich@ of the Scottish Country Dance Groups in Perth. aapt.net.au.

Ages 17’s – 80+.

You don’t need a kilt, a partner or a Scottish SWAN HARMONY SINGERS accent, just a reasonable level of fitness, a love of Every Wednesday Scottish music, and a pair of soft-soled shoes is Come and sing with us! Swan Harmony helpful.

Singers meet from 7-9pm at the Ascension Parish Dancing provides Church Hall, Spring Park Rd, Midland. We would great physical and mental be delighted to welcome new members, especially exercise. men. No auditions. For more information, call For further information Chris on 9298 9529 or 0435 062 728. please phone Rebecca Head 0409 329 705 LA SALLE COLLEGE, MIDDLE SWAN – or Jan Pittman MEMORABILIA FOR 60th ANNIVERSARY 9574 6671.

La Salle College’s 60th Anniversary Community Mass and Open Day will be held on Sunday 22 June from 10am to 3pm. As part

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CALL FOR A FREE ASSESSMENT MUNDARING - 9295 6255 ELLENBROOK - 9297 3654

TV ANTENNAS

SWAN MAGAZINE Published by: Synhawk Publications Pty Ltd WEBSITE:

www.swanmagazine.com.au Editor: Jan Patrick editor@swanmagazine.com.au Office: 14 Ridge Road, Glen Forrest, Western Australia Phone: 9298 8495 E-mail: office@swanmagazine.com.au

THEATRE

WEB DESIGN

Sales: Linda Davey 0433 380 745 Postal Address: P.O. Box 554, Mundaring Western Australia 6073 JUNE DEADLINES: Advertisements: 31st May Editorial: 25th May Copyright: Synhawk Publications Pty Ltd 2014 28

Your business could be here for $80.

Ring Jan on 9298 8495

29

DARLINGTON THEATRE

MARLOO THEATRE

PLAYERS

MARLOO ROAD, GREENMOUNT

Painting The Farndale Avenue Workshop Housing Estate Townswomen’s Guild Dramatic Society’s Production of

Macbeth

By David McGillivray and Walter Zerlin Jr

A comedy directe ed by Gail Palmer

JULY Curtain up 8pm *matinees 2pm Fri 4 Sat 5 Sun 6* Wed 9 Fri 11 Sat 12 Sun 13* Wed 16 Fri 18 Sat 19

Adults $20 Concession/child $18 By arrangement with ORIGIN ™ THEATRICAL on behalf of Samuel French, Ltd.

Members $16 Family 2ad+2ch $65 BOOKINGS: Gwyne 9255 1783

4 JULY - 19 JULY 2014 30

MARLOO THEATRE

www.marlootheatre.com