The Little National Post 7th Edition by Little National Post

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7 th EDITION

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CLEVER CAPITAL BEHIND EVERY GREAT BRAIN IS A GREAT STORY We probe the minds of four of Canberra's best and brightest. ––– Words by Emma Macdonald Front cover photography by Martin Ollman

FORMER LABOR LEADER KIM BEAZLEY once described Canberra as “a quiet city of the mind”. There’s no doubt the nation’s capital has a concentration of smarts. From having the highest NAPLAN results among primary schoolers and the most students completing Year 12, to pumping out the greatest number of university graduates and post-grads, Canberra houses the nation’s preeminent think-tanks and cultural institutions. Not to mention the upper echelons of the federal bureaucracy and policy-makers. But behind every great mind is a great story. Data scientist Dr Nicola Powell, cancer researcher Professor Sudha Rao, Nobel Laureate and Vice-Chancellor Brian Schmidt, and social demographer Hugh Mackay discuss their own cerebral journeys, ponder living in the clever capital, and consider how Canberra’s collective IQ sets it apart from the rest of the nation. NICOLA POWELL’S story is the sort that heartens those concerned about the lack of young women being drawn to careers in STEM. The British-born data scientist is the first in her family to be university-educated. Dad was a carpenter and mum stayed home while Nicola went to the local school. In fact, she might even have become an accountant like her older brother. But Nicola remembers how even as a young child, her sense of curiosity and burning need to understand how and why things worked, placed her on a trajectory to higher learning.

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SUDHA RAO Image by Loriana Fotografia

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CLEVER CAPITAL

NICOLA CHOSE MOLECULAR GENETICS and headed off to the University of East Anglia in Norwich. It suited her and she moved into research, taking up a PhD at the John Innes Centre. At first, her expertise was to understand genetic pathways, but as she immersed herself in the data, it became clear that the numbers, spreadsheets and analytical side of research captivated her. Then she found her method of communicating results cut through. She is now the Data Scientist for the Domain Group, creating and communicating findings about the country’s national obsession—real estate. Not only does Nicola crunch the numbers on everything from price movements in every geographical location, to supply, affordability, and the impact of government policy on the market, but she is the public face for Domain—speaking to all media regularly about her latest findings. Some days she can do up to 30 interviews across radio, television and newspapers. Nicola holds down the position from Canberra, where she moved almost 10 years ago to accept a position at the CSIRO where she was still working in the molecular genetics stream. She then set up her own data analytics company before being offered the national role for Domain. “I remember my first impressions of Canberra. I had never been anywhere that had such a high proportion of people with doctorates, I’d never been challenged on my thought processes—in a good way—so much. It was very different. I loved it.” She also sought to create a community for herself, volunteering with the Girl Guides, and—unusually—accepting a blind date with the man who would become her husband. Now Nicola loves Canberra for other reasons—including the ability to raise her nearly three-year-old son Henry in such a family-friendly, convenient, and enriching city. “It is a different city to the rest of the nation and for me it is such an easy city to live in, it’s got a lot going for it in terms of a strong economy, low unemployment, growing population figures—but maybe that’s the real estate data in me coming out.” PROFESSOR SUDHA RAO is acutely aware that more women die from breast cancer in Canberra than any other state or territory. It's a statistic which helps fuel the work of the molecular and cellular biologist who is considered something of a rockstar in the field of cancer science. Sudha’s research is so pioneering—and so successful to date—that rarely a month goes by without an offer for her to move to any number of international universities, medical research institutions or pharmaceutical companies.

So is the weight of responsibility she feels to the women she is trying to eventually help.

“It might sound clichéd but Canberra is a mix of a small country town with the best attributes of a big city." She is able to detect cancer cells’ molecular signatures to predict the characteristics of the cancer. This enables her to also predict the cancer’s response to treatment, track the response and guide treatment changes—all leading to faster and more effective treatment. Born in India to two academics—her father a professor of engineering and her mother a teacher with a background in medical science—Sudha and her family lived across a variety of different countries throughout her childhood. Growing up with both parents working out of laboratories gave her a feel for research from a very young age. But a strong humanitarian streak, and desire to help sick people in particular, set her on the path to gene therapy. Sudha obtained her Bachelor of Science with Honours at Keele University in the UK before completing her PhD at Kings College London. Her passion for clinical drug development was realised while working for Sanofi-Aventis where she built her expertise in drug development and clinical trials. In 2000, she looked at all options to pursue her clinical ambitions before narrowing the focus to Canberra. “I looked up the ANU and saw that it had won Nobel Prizes, that it had these stellar scientists. I wrote to them.” Sudha was immediately offered a position at the Australian National University’s (ANU) John Curtin School of Medical Research. In 2010 she moved to the University of Canberra (UC) as an Associate Professor in Molecular & Cellular Biology. While UC is a smaller institution, it has provided the support and opportunities to accelerate her team’s quest to fight cancer. She is also able to undertake more teaching, engage more with her students and attract the best of them to work in her lab. The pace of her work in running a pre-clinical trial in blood tests to determine whether a woman should immediately receive immunotherapy because she is receptive to it—rather than move through traditional chemotherapy options—is relentless.

But Sudha said Canberra was the perfect place for her. “It might sound clichéd but Canberra is a mix of a small country town with the best attributes of a big city. It has an intense network of highly engaged and highlyqualified people—not only across the medical profession but in IT and large-scale data analysis.” In a field where research is expensive and competitive grants have to be shared, Sudha is also grateful to Canberra’s business community. “I have found they really want to engage with innovation, to help fund and support research.” “And it helps that this city has a really collaborative culture. And a coffee culture! I love that we don’t have long commutes and you can just organise to meet with someone, have a coffee and work up a new collaboration. You just don’t get that in London.” OF CANBERRA’S CEREBRAL CITIZENS, Professor Brian Schmidt stands apart. The Montana-born astrophysicist discovered in 1998 that the expansion of the universe was accelerating (and not decelerating as was previously thought). That discovery earned him the 2011 Nobel Prize— alongside co‑researchers Adam Reiss and Saul Perlmutter. In 2016, he made an intriguing career choice when he agreed to become the ViceChancellor of the ANU—an institution at which he had been researcher for more than 20 years. While some might assume the management task is far less arduous than conceptualising the boundaries of the universe, Professor Schmidt makes the point that a life in research allowed him to focus on small pieces of information. “As a CEO you have to think about the whole institution—and the 20,000 people who are part of it—in a time scale from the immediate to 30 years in the future. You have to get everything in your brain regarding the entire organisation. It is an impressive challenge." “I describe the universe as a bunch of simple laws. But now I have to think about every department and every nuance, and I have to have an understanding of how everyone works and their needs and how that all interacts.” So did he make the right career choice? “I hope so. Management is hard—it is incredibly rewarding—but some things about it are not fun. I think I am doing a good job. I hope that I made the right choice. And if I feel I am not adding value then I will go back to my old job.”

PEOPLE PAG E

“Canberra’s secret is that it is a combination of a very sophisticated urbanised city in a setting and size which makes it warm and friendly and more like a town. It’s an amazing trick to pull off.”

While Professor Schmidt maintains his cultural and academic connections in the world of astrophysics, he says keeping his hand in by doing “just a little bit of research” is akin to being “a little bit pregnant” and the immediate tasks of running the university take precedent for the time being. Citing his best thinking time as the hours he spends in his beloved Sutton vineyard, Canberrans may not be aware that Professor Schmidt also produces a stellar Pinot Noir—under his Maipenrai label. It is a welcome distraction to conjure and consider the best treatment of grapes, while pruning his vines, alongside the more pressing needs of the university. Meanwhile, Professor Schmidt is acutely aware that he is running the nation’s best university from the country’s smartest city. “We clearly are one of the most educated cities, not just in Australia but in the world.” “Personally, I feel Canberra provides a wonderful environment to live and study in. You wander through the cafés on a Saturday

morning, and you meet the movers and shakers of Australia. You have the ability here to do things that are quite impossible.” Understandably, topping a scientific discovery worthy of a Nobel Prize is hard to do. But Professor Schmidt is working hard to put his stamp on the university. ANU continues to steam ahead on international rankings and has reached a time of industrial stability under the affable VC. But as he set out early on in his term, Professor Schmidt is focused on creating a more socially-conscious university by better engaging with the first Australians and creating a more respectful campus culture. So it is not just about being smart-minded, but about being high-minded too. HUGH MACKAY HAS SPENT more than 60 years holding a mirror to Australian society. As the country’s most influential social researcher, he’s written 19 books (seven of them fiction) and founded the quarterly research series The Mackay Report, which ran for 25 years. He trained as a social psychologist and was, fleetingly, a school teacher.

Hugh’s entry into the career that would earn him national esteem and gratitude— he was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2015 and has been awarded with five honorary doctorates—started young. He originally left school at 16 when his father found him a lowly clerical job with a public opinion research company and he attended Sydney University as an evening student. It was 1955—pre-television and precomputers, and a time before the country engaged in national introspection or the sort of commentary and social analysis that takes up much of our media space today. But Hugh quickly found himself fascinated with understanding the nation’s internal monologue. “Really I was consumed by my own curiosity about what made Australians tick. In the early years I was a backroom researcher and my more public role took me by surprise—and still does. Putting social research on the map is something I am proud of.” His seminal work, Reinventing Australia, was published 25 years ago at a time the country was grappling with the “new woman”, the IT revolution, multiculturalism, spiralling divorce rates, the shrinking middle and the rise of the swinging voter. Such massive cultural and economic upheaval led many Australians to feel less secure and sparked an epidemic of anxiety. This anxiety and the growing problem of social fragmentation are further examined in his latest work—Australia Reimagined— which calls for a rethink on how we all relate to each other, a return to neighbourhood connection, compassion and social civility. And on those topics, Hugh can argue Canberra has something of a head start. Not only is it a clever city, but it feels kinder too. Having forged his career in Sydney, Hugh and his wife Sheila relocated to Canberra last year. Sheila took up a teaching position in medicine at the ANU and Hugh has been relishing a chance to tap into the conversation and thinking he hears in the capital. “Canberra’s secret is that it is a combination of a very sophisticated urbanised city in a setting and size which makes it warm and friendly and more like a town. It’s an amazing trick to pull off.” “As a researcher I have spent my life listening closely to people. One thing I notice in Canberra is that conversations tend to be more thoughtful and articulate than you would typically hear in other major cities. And when I give talks, the level of questioning in Canberra is more considered too.” “The other thing I hear is a wonderful range of accents. I hear heavily-accented conversations and while Canberra has a reputation for being full of white-collar, university-educated public servants, it is in fact very multicultural."

H U G H M A C K AY

“That diversity comes from the diplomatic corps, the academic community, international students…many people are only here temporarily, but they enrich our culture hugely. Canberra’s extraordinary diversity comes as a very pleasant surprise to me.” ¡

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PROFESSOR SCHMIDT

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SPRING INTO THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS Words by Emma Macdonald ⋅ Photography by Tim Bean

When the dusty sheep plains of southern New South Wales morph into lush green grass, the bare paddocks sprout enormous European trees, and barbed wire fences make way for manicured hedges and pretty picket fences, you will know you have arrived. Long a summer retreat for Australia’s landed gentry, the Southern Highlands is just over an hour from Sydney and two hours from Canberra. It is a perfect place for a weekend getaway, a longer stay, or even—for the lucky few—a tree-change. Who could argue? With a heritage extending 200 years, the townships of Bowral, Mittagong, Moss Vale, Berrima and Bundanoon ooze charm and a quieter, more countrified pace of life—their verdant, undulating fields dotted with grand estates and manor houses. But the attraction also lies in the perks of truly cosmopolitan indulgence —beautiful cafes, hatted restaurants, and five-star accommodation. We bring you the best of Southern Highlands hospitality.

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Bowral S TAY + E AT B I O TA James Viles has turned nature-based, locally grown and gathered food into a twohatted reason to make the trip to Bowral. Biota is a drawcard for dinners from across the nation and the problem is that it is often booked out. If you can nab a reservation, be prepared to be taken on a culinary adventure that encompasses foraging, Nordic simplicity and an ever-changing menu that depends on what happens to be sprouting/frolicking close-by. The added bonus? If the wine list piques your interest as much as the menu, you can also stay. With 12 Scandi-style rooms attached to the restaurant, Biota offers a boutique hotel experience. Rooms are white, minimal and calming, and with superior tea, coffee and botanical bathroom supplies on hand. 18 Kangaloon Road, Bowral | Open for lunch and dinner, Thursday to Monday biotadining.com

M I LT O N PA R K If you feel you were born to enjoy manor living but sadly lack the country estate, head east of Bowral to indulge in a night or two of grandeur. Milton Park is a destination in itself, set among extensive formal gardens and offering a Wellness Spa. Guests stay in an imposing homestead which reveals European Villa influences while juxtaposing both French and Federation detailing. The turn-of-the-last-century building and land was bought by the luxury hoteliers, Aman Resorts, where it became a member of the exclusive Relais and Chateaux collection. It is now owned and run by a private consortium which has undertaken significant upgrades. Eat in the Horderns Fine Dining Room, or the new Orangerie. Alternatively you can relax in the Polo Bar or Conservatory.

"If you feel you were born to enjoy manor living but sadly lack the country estate, head east of Bowral to indulge in a night or two of grandeur."

200 Horderns Road, Bowral | Open 7 am til late, seven days miltonpark.com.au

THE GRAND BISTRO They ran Flat White CafĂŠ in Woollahra and Madame Char Char in Surry Hills before escaping the rat race for a slower gastronomic paceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;now chef Damien Monley and his wife Justine are running Bowral's charming Grand Bistro within the old Grand Hotel building, just off the main street. The old pub has never looked lovelier in her all-white reincarnation, while the menu offers beautifully-conceived and hearty fare with a focus on locally-sourced produce. The space has become a popular wine appreciation hub thanks to a Cellar Door Retreat with a beautifully-appointed self-contained holiday home overlooking Howards Lane Vineyard. 295 Bong Bong Street, Bowral | Open for breakfast and lunch, 9 am to 3 pm Tuesday to Sunday grandbistro.com.au

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B E R I DA H O T E L Its ivy-covered arches hint at something special inside, and the Berida Hotel comes complete with fine-dining options and an Endota Spa. Bistro Officina offers a seasonal à la carte menu and you may also be tempted by several interesting degustation menu experiences—depending on your appetite. It gets rave reviews in the Sydney press and includes a sweet children’s menu, allowing for happy families to make a stay of it. Kids will love the indoor pool, while adults can destress at the wine bar or with a few hours of hedonistic delight at the spa. The hotel boasts 42 rooms which have recently undergone beautiful renovations. 6 David Street, Bowral | Bistro Officina is open Wednesday to Monday from 6 pm. Lunch Friday, Saturday and Sunday from noon. Brunch Saturday and Sunday from 10.30 am. Wine bar is open daily from 4.30 pm till late bistroofficina.com.au

E AT + S H O P THE PRESS SHOP

DIRT Y JANE' S

Would you like stationery with your latte? When you see it lined up in all its handcrafted glory in The Press Shop it will make perfect sense. The menu is a locavore’s delight—everything from the meat, mushrooms, vegetables and even spring water are sourced from the region. And if you happen to need some bespoke stationery created on a vintage letterpress, then wander into the artist’s studio…

Hankering for some vintage adornment for your body or home? Dirty Jane's is an emporium which has it all. From furniture to jewellery, to homewares and clothing, you could get lost for hours as you peruse the shelves and not discover a single massproduced item Made In China.

5/391-397 Bong Bong Street, Bowral | Open Monday to Friday 7 am to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday 8 am to 4 pm, public holidays 8:30 am to 2.30 pm thepressshop.com.au

With 75-plus dealers filling out three large warehouse spaces, there’s also a tea-house for a restorative break between purchases. The Salon does things old-style—high tea in fine bone china, and superior scones and cream. The Acre, corner of Bong Bong & Banyette Streets, Bowral | Open seven days from 10 am to 5 pm (tea salon from 10 am to 4 pm) dirtyjanes.com

SHOP F E W A N D FA R This place is so crammed with beautiful homewares that only the most hard-hearted shopper could walk out empty-handed. More importantly, this is a destination point for big purchases—fancy a giant antique metal gate, almirah, sofa or 12-seater dining table? Once you’ve been inside, these unique items will haunt your home decoration dreams forever. Be warned. 351 Bong Bong Street, Bowral | Open seven days from 10 am to 5 pm (4pm on Sundays) fewandfar.com.au B A B I LO N I A Its theme is “international, eclectic and sophisticated” and Babilona has handpicked some of the best international brands to deliver luxury goods from a country location. Whether you’re after some AG Denim or a Trelise Cooper shift, you can be assured you will be able to accessorise it with a bag, sunglasses and jewellery without even having to leave the store. House of Cire Trudon candles and fragrances complete the fragrant picture. 21 Boolwey Street, Bowral | Open seven days 10am to 5pm babilonia.com.au

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Moss Vale E AT

S TAY

HIGHL ANDS MERCHANT

THE OLD NUNNERY B&B

If the Highlands Merchant doesn’t sell it , it is probably not worth buying. Stock up on handcrafted maple syrup or organic chicken bone broth and cook up a feast from the region. Or outsource the cooking and buy there, or takeaway.

Margaret and Ian are the proud owners of The Old Nunnery—a property built in 1900 and used for part of its life as a Catholic Dominican Nunnery. Now it has been totally renovated to provide four king-sized rooms with private bathrooms.

These guys provide superior catering—from platters of savoury tarts (featuring heirloom tomatoes, leek and gruyere cheese) to gourmet finger sandwiches, or strawberries dipped in chocolate and toasted coconut. Whether your group is small or large they have functions covered. The catering menu changes weekly and focuses on fresh and local produce delivered to their door by neighbouring farmers.

Guests have access to almost one acre of landscaped grounds where they can meet the chickens that laid the eggs for breakfast—which is a quality continental and/or full English breakfast.

405 Argyle Street, Moss Vale | Open seven days from 8am

There is also a separate guest lounge with a fireplace and a golf course across the road. 27 Arthur Street, Moss Vale theoldnunnery.wixsite.com/ theoldnunnery

highlandsmerchant.com.au

SHOP S U Z I E A N D E R S O N H O M E WA R E S If you want to immerse yourself in French, Belgian, and Hamptons-style furniture, homewares, lighting, linen, clothing and art than head into Suzie’s swoon-worthy shop. From rolled-up rattan carpets, to pieces of coral to tweak your look to coastal, framed mirrors in every shape and size and oversized sofas with choose-your-own linen upholstery, it would be easy to get lost. And don’t forget to look up for the impressive collection of chandeliers and lanterns. 409-411 Argyle Street | Open seven days 10am to 5pm, Sunday 10am to 3pm suzieandersonhome.com

Mittagong

Sutton Forest

S TAY

E AT

THE OLD BANK HOTEL

G U M N U T S PAT I S S E R I E

Local farmers Barbara and Warwick Wainberg have transformed the 1880s Commercial Banking Company building in the main street of Mittagong into a gorgeous boutique hotel. With six rooms and two cottages, the place oozes character and all the luxuries of modern convenience—hello, ensuite heated floors!

This bustling little bakery empire is a something of a Southern Highlands staple—it has shops in Bowral, Berrima and Mittagong and has won so many awards it is almost impossible to keep track.

Meanwhile, indulge in their high tea, or head into the Old Vault for a fine dining experience at the hands of husband and wife team Teena and Stephen Crooks, formerly of Phatt Duck Catering fame. 83 Main Street, Mittagong oldbankhotel.com.au

Owners Tracy and Vicki Nickl are obsessed with all things pastry and dough and have trained a team of similarly-obsessed bakers. Each day, an industrious morning of baking sees everything from custom-cakes, to savouries and sweet treats quickly depleted by queues of hungry locals. Visitors usually don’t know to get there early enough, and often find the glass counter display mostly eaten. That’s life at Gumnuts! Corner of Cavendish & Dalton Streets, Mittagong | Open Monday to Saturday 6.30am-5pm and 7.30am-10am gumnutpatisserie.com.au

S TAY

"Each day, an industrious morning of baking sees everything from custom-cakes, to savouries and sweet treats quickly depleted by queues of hungry locals."

R E D C O W FA R M If gardens are your calling, make time for a stop at Red Cow Farm. The unique cool climate landscapes are spread on 2.5 hectares in the quaint rural village of Sutton Forest. Developed by its creative owners Ali Mentesh and Wayne Morrissey around their historic 1820s cottage, the garden includes a walled sanctuary, a cottage garden, monastery garden, abbess’ garden, a stunning collection of rare and unusual perennials, woodland, old fashioned roses and clematis, beech walk, lake, bog garden, orchard and kitchen garden. It’s open eight months of the year from late September to May. 7480 Illawarra Highway, Sutton Forest | Open 10am to 4pm daily. redcowfarm.com.au

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Berrima S TAY T H E LO C H The creation of Sydney chef and caterer Brigid Kennedy and her antique-purveying partner Kevin Nott, The Loch's four cosy rooms are named after Scottish towns— and all include access to a large communal kitchen and living room with views of the bucolic bliss surrounding them. The former stables have been made over in style and guests can indulge in The Tasting Room’s paddock-to-plate menu which shows off Brigid’s expertise. Anyone for braised beef on brie & red onion mac ’n’ cheese, with pecan and sage crumb, or maybe the prune-stuffed roast lamb loin with hot roast red cabbage and dill-scented port jus? If you are just passing through, you can at least get a small taste of this place with a visit to the Sunday Farm Stall between 10am and 4pm where you may also pick up one of Kevin’s farm antiques. 581 Greenhills Road theloch.net.au

E AT/ R E A D T H E B O O K B A R N C O T TAG E A beautiful home to the Berkelouw Book Business located on Bendooley Estate, here is a spot to sit and stay awhile.

Burrawang E AT/ S TAY T H E B U R R AWA N G V I L L AG E H O T E L A family-run business, the hotel is a meeting place, a drinking place and an eight-room guesthouse for those who want to make a night of it at this secluded village setting 20km from Bowral. Run by couple Pete and Kate, who both hail from hospitality careers in Sydney, the hotel offers what you would rightly expect of a country pub—hearty fare with flair. 14 -16 Hoddle Street, Burrawang burrawangvillagehotel.com.au

THE GENER AL STORE This place is a Southern Highlands institution. Built in 1867, the iconic building has developed from a traditional general store to a culinary destination for locals as well as visitors from further afield. It serves everything from crisp barramundi, coconut rice, watermelon, mint, lime, and red onion salad, to steak sandwiches with caramelised onion, horseradish, garlic cream, and sweet potato fries—be sure to book! Accommodation is also available at the former manager's residence, Bower Cottage, which is a sweetly-restored three-bedroom self-contained cottage that sleeps six in comfort and boasts a beautiful open fire. 11 Hoddle Street, Burrawang | Open seven days 8am to 4pm bgsc.com.au

Built early last century, the Book Barn has been transformed to highlight its exposed timber beams and cathedral ceilings. Better yet, it houses tens of thousands of new, second-hand, rare and antiquarian books. At the heart of the Book Barn is a striking John Olsen (he’s a local) and a grandiose medieval-style circular fireplace. And if the reading sparks an appetite then head to the much-loved Bendooley estate restaurant, cafe, and winery. Accommodation has been expanded to include five luxury cottages absolutely dripping in that Southern Highlands style. 3020 Old Hume Highway, Berrima bendooleyestate.com.au

Bundanoon S TAY S P R I N G F I E L D FA R M If you’re after something a little different, how about immersion in a farm stay? Only don’t expect to rough it at Springfield Farm. This stylish farmhouse has five bedrooms, four bathrooms and spacious living and dining areas all appointed in peak Southern Highlands decor. French doors open to 170 acres of country estate, and as a working property, you may have the house to yourself but expect to see livestock managers going about their business. There is plenty to do if you can wrest yourself from in front of the open fire or from enjoying the views from the wrap-around verandah. For one, there are many trails and mountain paths in the National Park, or try a night-time adventure at “Glow Worm Glen”. 350 Ferndale Road, Bundanoon contemporaryhotels.com.au

TA S T E PAG E

THE SPIRIT OF CANBERRA There is a science to distilling an award-winning spirit, and Canberra is home to two distillers who bring vastly different intellectual backgrounds to the craft. Words by Emma Macdonald â&#x2039;&#x2026; Photography by Tim Bean

TA S T E PAG E

farmers dropping off produce, friends who were economists and teachers popping in as my tasting brains trust. Running out of meetings with plumbers as someone’s labour kicked off with gusto.

UNDERGROUND SPIRITS Toby Angstmann, founder. He is a spirits geek, but also an obstetrician, robotic surgeon and IVF specialist, who was also in the Australian Defence Force and occasionally lectures in medicine at the ANU. W H AT (O N E A R T H ) L E D YO U T O DISTILLING? The inspiration came to me after a trip to Scotland in the summer of 2016. As I toured the distilleries there, I was just struck by this idea of how good things are here in Canberra. It also occurred to me that it would be fun to see if some processes from the medical world could be used to improve the traditional spirit production processes, this idea that there is more than tradition. When I returned to Canberra I started talking about these ideas with some of my friends, people with backgrounds in food and business, and next thing I knew we founded a distillery. W H AT WA S YO U R S TA R T- U P L I K E ? There was this really fun fusion of local produce, real ingredients, and new, nerdy processes born from this background of traditional distilling. I had mates who are

But we were way off on scale. I grossly underestimated how many people would come to support us. Everything we made just flew off the shelves. This fun craft project—that was such a joy to me, something I revelled in doing for doing sake—needed to become a proper business. As we grew, we were so lucky to have a network of family and friends, with amazing talent who were keen to be part of this new endeavour. It just clicked, the hard work, the late nights distilling, bottling, the first truckload shipped overseas. All these little things coming together organically. W H E R E D O YO U S E E T H E I N D U S T R Y GOING? Craft distilling is a growing industry. We have lagged behind our wine and beer comrades in showing what we can do to the community and to the world. I think Australian distillers, in the best tradition of our Tasmanian Whisky trailblazers, could be leading the world in this sector over the next 20 years. But we have to address the crippling effect of a taxation system that is biased against distilleries. Around $24 from every bottle goes in duty, whereas in other countries this is vastly different. In the USA this duty is 49 cents a bottle. If this industry is nurtured, if we address the tax issue and can build the systems to train distillers in proper processes, we will see more distilleries emerge and there will be more jobs and opportunity.

problems kept presenting themselves, and as I resolved those problems I got closer to having a distillery. Also, my products tasted great and I wanted to share them with more than just family and friends. W H E R E A R E YO U C U R R E N T LY AT WITH THE BUSINESS? I have a couple of staff these days and we have a local and interstate distributor.

THE CANBERRA DISTILLERY Tim Reardon, founder Growing up in the same region where his ancestors received their “ticket of leave” in Collector in the 1820’s, Tim studied Economics at the ANU to postgraduate level and has worked as an economist/lobbyist ever since. He has particular expertise in the energy field and is a complete swot on carbon policy.

Success for me does not involve taking over the world. It is about the way I feel about the distillery. That means being a part of something in Canberra. I love going to markets and hanging out with market people. They are good souls. I love talking to customers and sharing the things I made. I love hearing back about events. I love being able to donate product to worthy causes. I love making new products. Seeing the look on people’s faces when a memory is sparked and they are taken to another time and place. WHERE TO NE X T ?

About 10 years ago, I fell into distilling as a form of occupational therapy. It became a quiet place to tinker and make things rather than the more destructive and less tangible world of lobbying.

We need to find a permanent home other than my garage—hopefully somewhere which is its own destination. Somewhere people can come, learn the art and science and experience of distilling, something with a showroom, a place to taste and room for tours and events. Something for locals and tourists to visits.

In 2015 I had some time on my hands, after the carbon price was repealed, and I started the process of becoming a licensed distiller. It wasn’t that I had a plan to start a distillery. It was simply because as I kept distilling,

This might take a few more years and more than one or two more moves to larger premises before we can achieve this, but that is the long-term plan. Frankly, my wife’s patience is running out. ¡

H O W D I D YO U B E C O M E A DISTILLER?

CITY PAG E

COOL BARS FOR WARMER WEATHER Canberra’s bar scene has always been hot, but when the temperatures rise, there are certain establishments that really come into their own. We take you on a tour of some of the city’s best watering holes for the warmer months. Words by Kristen Kipouropoulos

The Highball Express Discover a taste of Latin America at this vivacious bar in the centre of the city. Located in Canberra’s historic Melbourne Building, the bar is named after the planes that flew thirsty Americans to Cuba during prohibition and no detail has been overlooked in recreating this tropical paradise of escapism. Intriguing mixed drinks, a jaw-dropping collection of rums, and daring cocktails make for a night like no other. Lounge on their daybeds beneath the ferns or make your way out to the breezy terrace. You’ll feel like you’re in another world. The Highball Express | 82 Alinga Street (accessed via Odgers Lane), City highballexpress.com.au

Image by Lori Cicchini

Ostani Sunken lounges, bistro dining, shared tables and a cabana-style covered courtyard capturing the best of the city’s blue skies and breezes, Ostani is located at the base of Hotel Realm. Its Barton postcode lends it to attracting the city’s power elite and it has lots of nooks and corners for mixing business with pleasure. Order fusion bites like bao buns with hoisin beef, coriander, bean shoots and cabbage slaw from their Favourites menu or settle in for something more substantial, with wood fired oven pizza and hearty burgers. Paired with one of their speciality cocktails or a bottle of something special from their impressive drinks list and you have the perfect spring evening. Hotel Realm, 18 National Circuit, Barton ostani.com.au

CITY PAG E

…and don’t miss these seasonal pop ups Parlour Sit amongst friends and soak up the sun on Parlour’s leafy front terrace with a drink in hand. There’s shady trees, manicured grass, vegetable gardens, and the shores of Lake Burley Griffin within strolling distance. Known for their impeccable wine list and old school cocktails, this is the perfect spot to enjoy the buzzing NewActon precinct and, with a tapas menu featuring highlights like patatas bravas and Ortiz anchovy with caramelised onion pastry and beetroot crème, you won’t go hungry either. Let afternoon turn to dusk as you work your way through the menu. Parlour | 16 Kendall Lane, NewActon parlour.net.au

T H E F O R AG E Three times a year, hungry hordes flock to indulge at The Forage, a street food festival that’s been satisfying Canberra’s cravings since 2014. Make space in the calendar and in your stretchiest pants each spring, autumn and winter when a unique selection of vendors stage a takeover of the carpark at Little National Hotel and turn it into a street festival. The Forage offers everything from boutique tea spiked with gin, to popcorn, juicy burgers, fried chicken, brownie cookies, freshly made bread and pastries, chocolate, wood fired pizza, local wines and more. The Forage | The Little National Hotel carpark | Coming in Autumn theforage.com.au

Howling Moon Take in panoramic views of Canberra as you peruse a curated selection of cocktails at rooftop bar, The Howling Moon. If you want a sunset session, then this glasshouse perched high above Northbourne Avenue gives you views of the entire city. Get the perfect shot of Canberra icons like Black Mountain Tower and Lake Burley Griffin as you delve into a sharing menu or stay to watch the stars come out through the glass roof. Who says you can’t socialise and sight-see at the same time? The Howling Moon | 150 Northbourne Ave, Braddon thehowlingmoon.com.au

THE POP INN The Pop Inn is an innovative, not to mention convenient, pop-up wine bar that appears at various outdoor locations around Canberra just as your mind turns to thoughts of crisp white wine varietals. Think sipping chardonnay by the lake, or Pinot Noir in a park. From their chic bar-on-wheels, The Pop Inn serves local wine from some of Canberra’s premier vineyards as well as beer and spirits. Perfect for a spontaneous date night, gathering with friends or as an exploration of Canberra’s diverse wine offerings. You never know too far in advance where it is going to be, but when you see a crowd gathering in particularly picturesque spot, you will know what the attraction is. Keep an eye on thepopinn.com for their upcoming locations.

DESIGN PAG E

SIMPLE BRILLIANCE IN DESIGN Noted Sydney architect Simon Swaney reflects on building simple and lasting design, the concept of luxury, and how Canberra’s planning principles will hold up in the future Words by Emma Macdonald

Ah, to build, to build! That is the noblest art of all the arts. Painting and sculpture are but images, Are merely shadows cast by outward things On stone or canvas, having in themselves No separate existence. Architecture, Existing in itself, and not in seeming A something it is not, surpasses them As substance shadow. - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

SIMON SWANEY STARTED OUT as a builder before becoming an architect. He came to the conclusion early on in his career that while the physicality of construction was empowering, his heart lay in the shape, form and design elements of the built environment.

In Canberra, Bates Smart has forged an ongoing partnership with the Doma Group to deliver projects ranging from the ACT Government offices taking shape in Dickson, to taking the Little National Hotel concept to new locations in Sydney and Newcastle.

Ultimately, the allure of the intangible elements of design won out over bricks and mortar.

Simon says his formative experience as a builder—he did a construction degree at Melbourne University and worked with several large companies throughout his twenties before setting up his own firm—has infused his designs with “an inevitable pragmatism”.

“To me, what is important when I enter a space is the experience and the emotion. What is the quality of the light? What is the spatial journey as you pass through? What surprises you on your way? What feelings are evoked?” As one of the country’s most successful architects—a CV listing decades of accolades and a blue-chip client list is testament to this—Simon has spent years as a director of leading firm Bates Smart. From their base in Sydney, Bates Smart has created such monumental buildings as the MidCity Centre, Clayton Utz’s new offices in No. 1 Bligh Street, and Neil Perry’s Rockpool Bar and Grill.

But his aesthetic sense is clearly defined: “I focus on beauty and simplicity. Of course, what may look simple is often very hard to build!” Having returned to university at age 28 to pursue an architectural career, Simon completed his qualifications and then set about travelling in a conscious effort to seek inspiration. He saw the world and he drew—citing New York’s Lever House as one of his favourite modernist buildings, the Aman resort group particularly adept

But no matter the size, scope, or often lavish budget for each project, Simon maintains his steadfast belief in the need to keep his designs simple. “Luxury to me isn’t about plush, rich interiors, it is about simple beauty and solitude. For me, beauty is extreme simplicity, is well thought through, and signifies harmony. Richness should not be about gold and glitz, but about a sense of order, control and restraint.” To that end, Simon believes Canberra’s planned design by husband and wife Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahony Griffin exhibits strengths and simplicity that should not be abandoned in the pursuit of growth. “The public works department (precursors to the National Capital Authority) didn’t really implement the plan in full but the principles underneath it—the idea of a garden city, with radiating geometry and the planned creation of distance, has really served the city well." “Certainly, these principles shouldn’t be abandoned and Canberra allowed to do a sharp left turn away from its history."

“Luxury to me isn’t about plush, rich interiors, it is about simple beauty and solitude. For me, beauty is extreme simplicity, is well thought through, and signifies harmony." at inculcating local cultural references into luxury accommodation, and Kerry Hill as an exemplary hotel architect. When asked to nominate buildings which have had a deep personal impact, Simon singles out the Arab World Institute in Paris by Jean Nouvel for its audacious technological adaptation. The building is encased in a geometric metallic screen which uses photo-sensitive motorcontrolled apertures to control the amount of light and heat entering the building from the sun. Meanwhile, the work of Renzo Piano “is always extraordinary, always sensitive and always contextual with each building a response to place, culture and material.” When Simon returned from his travels he founded Swaney Draper Architects in 1987—the practice became highly respected and working across the residential, commercial and institutional sectors. His work continues that diversity and Simon overseas major projects across hotels, restaurants, workplaces, and commercial and transport hubs around the country.

"But equally, we recognised the city needs the capacity to grow, so there is this perpetual debate about how to enable a planned city to grow organically." “You need to consider how to draw on the city’s history as a very formulaic and ordered environment and how to perhaps encourage a little bit of grit and surprise.” In amongst all of this, Simon is a strong advocate for anti-fashion and environmental consideration when cities expand. “In architecture, I try and follow the economy of means and avoid the excess of fashion. I try to produce buildings that are of a period and are contemporary, but in 10 years’ time will have integrity and stand on their own." “There is certainly an environmental message in all this. We need to build things to last. When you relentlessly pursue fashion, you need to tear it all down and rebuild in a relatively short time. I have always been concerned with the environment and I actually think the most luxurious thing in the world is to be environmentally responsive.” ¡

DESIGN PAG E

STYLE PAG E

HER SPRING/SUMMER STYLE

C O LO U R C O D E S

A L L- W H I T E E V E R Y T H I N G The first look I ever wore to Fashion Week was white from head-to-toe. I think people underestimate how easy it is—when you’re wearing all-white, you can be really experimental with volume, shape and texture. You could add a pop of colour with an accessory, but this season it feels more interesting to go with brown or terracotta— natural hues that will warm your look up and make it feel a bit nostalgic. White and tan always works—it’s the picture of sophistication.

M E E T C A R A H O, O U R FA S H I O N S T Y L I S T B R I N G I N G YO U T H I S S E A S O N ’ S LO O K S . Born into Australian fashion royalty, Cara cut her teeth working in fashion business management for eight years, before establishing her niche styling Australia’s celebrities for red carpet events and television. With a strong portfolio of clients from TV, fashion and the corporate worlds in both Sydney and Canberra, Cara is passionate about helping people establish their signature look, whilst paying homage to trends.

A statement piece like a knit cardi, coat or jacket is the easiest way to incorporate bright colour into your wardrobe because you can just team it with your basics and immediately update your look. If I’m wearing colour head-to-toe, though, I prefer to colour-block with clothes that are from the same tonal family rather than clash completely different shades. Stick to structured cuts without too many details, so as not to distract from the colour itself.

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“I am a huge advocate of soft, relaxed tailoring, knitwear and tonal palettes, that allow you to mix and match to create a myriad of outfits for work, weekend and going out,” she says of her personal style philosophy. “In other words, wear your clothes; don’t let them wear you.”

P R O D U C T D E TA I L S THIS PAGE 1 Leigh Miller Totem earrings $295 netaporter.com

2 Celine sunglasses $680 incu.com 3 Jil Sander silk top $1,365 macthesfashion.com 4 Ulla Johnson Ayana pants $360 netaporter.com 5 Loewe Hammock bag $3,750 matchesfashion.com 6 Chloé Rony Slides $771 netaporter.com 7 Charlotte Chesnais earrings $437 netaporter.com 8 Cercle Amédée Night Owl cuff $597 netaporter.com 9 Roland Mouret crêpe top $545 matchesfashion.com 10 Roland Mouret Burton pant $950 matchesfashion.com 11 Gucci velvet bucket bag $2,780 gucci.au.com 12 Aquazurra Virginie heels $781 netaporter.com

OPPOSITE PAGE 13 Monica Vinader cuff $270 netaporter.com 14 Nico bodysuit $80 undonestore.com 15 Rejina Pyo Utility Skirt $587 netaporter.com

16 Marni Pannier bucket bag $2,399 netaporter.com 17 Boyy buckle slides $711 netaporter.com 18 Camilla and Marc blazer $750 camillaandmarc.com

19 Gucci T-shirt netaporter.com $665 20 Chloe Shorts $1,130 netaporter.com 21 Gucci check loafers gucci.com $855 22 Scanlan Theodore Crepe knit plaid top $350

23 Scanlan Theodore Crepe knit Plaid Skirt $400 24 Gucci blazer $3,045 netaporter.com 25 TIBI lavender pleat dress $1,089 tibi.com 26 Ariana Boussard-Reifel Cady silver earrings $279 netaporter.com 27 Viktoria & Wood Farewell wrap top $290 viktoriaandwoods.com.au 28 Frame Denim Le High cropped jean $340 netaporter.com 29 Gianvito Rossi Portofino 105 heels $1,055 netaporter.com 30 Burberry mismatched link drop earrings $350 matchesfashion.com 31 Lover Peony silk shirt $395 loverthelabel.com 32 RAEY leather skirt $572 matchesfashion.com 33 Neous Opus woven mules $761 netaporter.com 34 Alice + Olivia Reen wrap effect dress $626 netaporter.com

STYLE PAG E

THE NEW UTILIT Y Everyone should have one or two pieces in their wardrobe that they can just put on and not think about, whether it’s a utilitarian jumpsuit or an elegant-but-practical trench coat. Midi skirts are a good option— whether you keep them looking very casual and wear them with sneakers for day, or make them more feminine with a pair of mules for night.

CHECK IT OUT

F R E S H F LO W E R S

I love wearing classic prints like stripes and checks. There is an element of timelessness. This season, checks are here to stay and see out the warmer months. The trick is to ensure you maintain the heritage element without it looking like you are stringing out your winter wardrobe.

I like to make my florals feel a little androgynous, so I look for prints that are in a darker hue or on a simply shaped piece—a long-sleeved, low-cut dress, say, rather than something frilly. I always add a pair of sneakers, slides or boots, or a leather element—something to counter that feminine edge.

L AV E N D E R H A Z E There has been a lot of pink around recently, but lilac is the colour of SS18. It feels sophisticated and grown-up, and it’s a great colour for spring and summer. I’d choose pieces that are loose and flowing with an element of boyishness. Colourblocking is a really great way of standing out, and it’s often easier than mixing lots of colours together.

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STYLE PAG E

HIS SPRING/SUMMER STYLE TONAL DRESSING

VERTICAL STRIPES Like grimacing through sun-scorched barbecues and festivals, Breton stripes are a summer institution. But since they’ve also been hijacked by everyone including school-run mums you could hardly call them ground-breaking. The solution: turn them 90 degrees. The vertical stripe is officially menswear’s new go-to pattern.

PERSONAL ST YLING SERVICE Cara offers personal fashion styling and image consultancy services for both men and women, accommodating budget and lifestyle requirements. To make your appointment or to find out more, please, call Cara on 0421 489 688.

But take it too far and you’re one half of Bananas In Pyjamas. The key to staying well clear of animated fruit is the size of your stripes. The best examples on show for SS18 are straight, narrow and deployed across T-shirts, short-sleeved shirts and cuffed pants. When creating your own looks, one vertically-striped piece at a time is often enough—the double vertical stripe is an advanced style move that only the most confident of men can pull off.

Forget what you’ve heard about opposites attracting, menswear is going for the full-kit look this season. Think of tonal dressing as spring/summer’s answer to all-black everything, but with way more choice. The real beauty of tonal dressing is that it works for almost any scenario that you can think of. Tonal suiting? Try it for a summer wedding. Tonal pastels? Give it a go on your next summer holiday. Tonal navy? You’ve probably worn that all winter long. Colours you’re already well-stocked with are a good place to start—think blue or grey—but don’t be afraid of lighter neutrals and even pastel shades as the weather improves. Oh, and three is the magic number for the number of tonal items you should be wearing in one outfit. 6

P R O D U C T D E TA I L S 7 THIS PAGE 1 Falke Ess long-sleeve striped silk-blend polo $236 mrporter.com 2 Sorensen driver T-shirt $88 matchesfashion.com

3 120% Lino striped linen pants $282 matchesfashion.com 4 Bottega Veneta Intrecciato slides $550 matchesfashion.com 5 Frescobol Carioca Nero linen shirt $220 mrporter.com 6 Brunello Cucinelli white T-shirt 4560 matchesfashion.com 7 AMI cotton twill suit jacket $645 mrporter.com 8 Jacques Marie Mage Jules squared sunglasses $792 mrporter.com

9 Canali linen blend suit trousers matchesfashion.com $765 mrporter.com 10 Maison Margiela replica sneakers $528 matchesfashion.com

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11 James Perse cotton-cashmere knit $486 mrporter.com 12 Y3 printed T-shirt $165 matchesfashion.com

13 Valentino Side-stripe pants $1,130 matchesfashion.com 14 Balmain zipper trimmed trainers $774 mrporter.com 15 Y3 signature logo bag $368 matchesfashion.com 16 Oliver People’s Heaton D-Dram sunglasses $550 mrporter.com 17 Ralph Lauren checked shirt $215 mrporter.com

18 Mr. P denim jeans $323 mrporter.com 19 Nonnative Dweller faux suede cap $195 mrporter.com20 20 Converse 1970’s Chuck Taylor $127 mrporter.com 21 Sandro Monaco cotton-blend bomber $1,230 mrporter.com 22 Sandro Pinna cotton T-shirt $295 matchesfashion.com 23 AMI checked baseball cap $190 matchesfashion.com 24 Hartford Tanker stretch cotton trousers $483 mrporter.com 25 Alvaro Antonio leather slides $660 mrporter.com 26 Ermenegildo Zegna blue unstructured melange linen blazer $3,622 mrporter.com 27 Thom Browne checked cotton poplin shirt $726 mrporter.com 28 Lanvin cotton canvas biker trousers $676 matchesfashion.com 29 Sandro collapsible heel loafers $673 mrporter.com 30 Burberry Leather Trim London Check Crossbody Bag $920 au.burberry.com

STYLE PAG E

SIDE-STRIPE TROUSERS Picture this: it’s the nineties, jeans are the ‘smart’ option, and there are more sidestripe trackies walking the streets than people. Now rub your eyes, because hey, it’s 2018 and the side-stripe revival is real. Side-stripe trousers have come at a pretty good time, with athleisure in danger of becoming about as much fun as marathon training. Get a pair of stripes on your pins though and you’ll find the trend can go another mile or two.

DA D D E N I M

CHECKS

Menswear likes extremes. So, just when it looked like circulation-restricting spray-on jeans were never going to die, SS18 gifted us with leg-friendly dad denim. Think loose fit, light wash, unfussy and straight up and down.

We know what you’re thinking— checks can’t come back because they never really went away. Technically you’re right, but while checks refuse to ever leave the menswear party, the wrong type can make you look, well, square. There’s still a chasm of taste between a gingham “going out” shirt for Friday night with the guys and a classic windowpane suit.

Dad denim unites baby boomers and millennials through a love of unfussy comfort. As for the rules of dressing like your dad (only much, much better): go for cropped designs or pin-roll your jeans (pools of fabric at your feet are still not cool) and team with T-shirts, statement trainers, Chelsea boots and loose-fitting shirts in pastel shades.

The key to making side stripes work without looking like Sporty Spice is balance. Yes, you can wear trainers with them, but you’ll need to add a smart knit or a slim-fit shirt.

T E C H N I C A L J AC K E T S The winds of change have blown for SS18 and what’s deemed hot property in men’s outerwear has done a complete 180-degree turn. Yes, that silky-soft suede bomber you bought last year is still unbelievably attractive, but if you really want to flex your menswear muscle then a technical jacket is your safest bet. The very best part of this reinvention is that your styling options are broad. Throw one on over jeans, tailored trousers, knits, shirts, trainers or Chelsea boots. You’d be hard-pressed to go wrong. 21

We really don’t want you letting yourself down in one of those short-sleeved weekend wonders, but fortunately you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to size, style and colour this season. The safest way to make checks work for you is to try larger or more complex motifs (think heritage, windowpane, Prince of Wales) on outerwear, knitwear and trousers. To avoid going OTT, check yourself and make sure that the rest of your outfit is toned down.

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H E A LT H PAG E

SMART HEALTH: UNLOCKING YOUR GENETIC CODE Once reserved for elite athletes or the ultra-wealthy, genetic testing is more accessible now than ever before. Could it be the secret to optimal fitness and health? Words by Ashleigh Went

THERE ARE MANY FACTORS that influence our health and fitness—from the way we work out, to the food that we put in our bodies; our stress levels to the quality of our sleep. For the most part, these are largely influenced by our behaviour. The exception is our genetics, a component of our bodies whose influence has remained somewhat elusive—until now. myDNA is an organisation whose mission is to provide genetic interpretations to inform an individual’s health, medical and lifestyle decisions. Founded by Associate Professor Les Sheffield, myDNA consists of pharmacologists, molecular and clinical geneticists, researchers, genetic counsellors, nutritionists and sport dietitians. While DNA testing has been around for years, it’s been primarily used in predictive health, examining the risk of disease. It’s only recently that the applications for wellness, nutrition and fitness have been fully realised. myDNA Nutrigenomics Specialist Dr Carlotta Petti explains “at the completion of the human genomic sequencing in 2001, a new era of nutrition science, called nutrigenomics, began." “In the last 15 years, research has started to focus on this area. We’re still at the tip of the iceberg right now, as more and more studies come up every day.” Initially, tests were reserved for elite athletes or those who could afford to pay the exorbitant cost. Companies like myDNA are making this technology accessible to the public by using cutting edge technology and segregating genetic testing into categories like nutrition or fitness.

"The very nature of science means that what is considered accurate now, may soon be outdated by new developments." “Analysing a lot of genes is more expensive” says Dr Petti. “At myDNA, we have our own in-house laboratory, so we can really customise and choose which genes we want to analyse.” The testing itself is straightforward. The customer receives a swab that they use to collect a sample from their cheek, they send the sample to myDNA’s lab in Melbourne, and 10-15 days later, a full report with practical recommendations is available via a secure online portal. The benefit of myDNA testing lies not only in the results themselves, but the evidencebased advice offered by experts. “We have a team of scientists who curate the literature and compile reports, so that the customer receives not just their genetic results, but also actionable advice.” “For example, there is one of the genes that we analyse called the FTO, so we know that if a person has a specific variant of the FTO gene, it puts you at a higher risk of being overweight."

“Not only can we tell you that you have an increased chance of obesity, but also that there are studies that show that if you have that variant, you can actually lose more weight with a higher protein diet.” In the case of fitness, myDNA can tell you whether you have a certain genetic result that indicates that you’re more likely to excel in a certain kind of training style—for example, power sports like sprinting or weight lifting, as opposed to endurancebased sports. The very nature of science means that what is considered accurate now, may soon be outdated by new developments. myDNA is acutely aware of this and demonstrate a continued commitment to remain at the cutting edge of technology and science, continually updating their database of peerreviewed, published research studies. “We’ve adopted an Oxford rating system, which is the most established scale to rate the strength of evidence in general research." “For every gene and every recommendation, we associate a rating. We select the genes with the highest level of evidence, and always display that level so that we’re transparent with the customer.” With a plethora of approaches and advice available, navigating the world of personal wellness can be perplexing. DNA analysis takes the speculation out of that process, providing an individualised blueprint for achieving optimal health. While the current technology is extraordinary, the rate of development in this research space indicates a promising future. Discover and learn more about myDNA online at mydna.life ¡

H E A LT H PAG E

FOOD PAG E

BRAIN FOOD Ever heard salmon referred to as a "brain food"? Not only is it delicious, but this succulent pink-fleshed fish is also packed with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid. Styling by Belinda Neame ⋅ Photography by Tim Bean

These long snake-like building blocks of fat molecules are required for proper brain structure and function, and because humans are metabolically incapable of making DHA on our own, we must get it from our diet.

As you age, DHA levels in your brain decline, and this deterioration has been linked to memory loss, mood disorders, cognitive decline, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), reduced brain volume and Alzheimer’s disease.

DHA protects neurons from injury, reduces cerebral inflammation, helps produce neurotransmitters that tell cells what to do, and is vital for quick information transfer down the axon, otherwise known as the neuron’s highway.

Two servings of salmon a week should do the trick for keeping your brain cells working properly and reducing your risk of neurological disease. This dish of Pan-fried Salmon with Fennel Purée from Doma's Executive Chef, Fabien Wagnon ticks one of those servings off the list in the most delicious way.

Pan-fried salmon with fennel purée INGREDIENTS

METHOD

2 fennel bulbs, cleaned and chopped roughly into small wedges

Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan then add sliced eschalots and garlic. Cook both at low heat for three minutes.

2 eschalots, sliced

Add fennel and cook slowly for another four minutes at low heat, stirring to avoid it colouring.

1 garlic clove, crushed 250ml pure cream (or enough to cover your vegetables in a pot)

Add enough liquid to cover your fennel and season with salt. Cook for 15 minutes, or until fennel is tender. Drain.

250ml milk

Place fennel in mixer, adding small amounts of cooking liquid until you have a smooth purée.

Salt White pepper 1tsp cayenne pepper 1 lemon Extra virgin olive oil 2 x 160g salmon fillets

SERVES 2

Season with salt and pepper, and keep warm while salmon cooks. Heat 1tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a non-stick pan. Score salmon skin twice then place skin-side down in pan. Cook slowly on skin side, then when 2/3 cooked, turn salmon flesh down and cook for another minute. Put salmon on resting tray flesh down—the heat from the skin will travel towards the flesh. Place on plate with warm fennel purée and a piece of lemon. Enjoy with a Canberra Viognier or Marsanne!

FOOD PAG E

WELLBEING PAG E

THE GOLDFISH EFFECT Words by Laura Peppas

Smartphones and social media deliver a wealth of information, but they are also sending an overload to our senses. Is forgetfulness the new malady of 2020?

HANDS UP if one or more of the following scenarios sound familiar.

focus. In short, our ability to concentrate has been blown to pieces.

You enter a room, and almost immediately forget why you went there in the first place. Ten minutes later, you find yourself sitting on the corner of the bed, deep in a Facebook thread on your phone.

According to experts, this is because our brains have begun to imitate the internet browsers we see on a daily basis. Just as you can always open more tabs in your browser, we can now cut short one thought and open a new one. Labelled ‘The Goldfish effect’; social media, smartphones and the constant work cycle have essentially left the human mind with an attention span equivalent to that of a goldfish.

Later that day you misplace your keys, and lose your train of thought in a conversation with a colleague. That evening, you decide to watch a movie only to lose interest midway through and start mindlessly scrolling through Instagram. It’s likely that at this point, there are more than a few hands raised. So what is this phenomenon that is seemingly taking over our minds? Let’s start with the good news. Since the introduction of Smartphones over a decade ago, we have access to more information than ever, with headlines at our fingertips and a deluge of content vying for internet users' attention. People have become incredibly reliant on smartphones for both information and entertainment: smartphone app developer Delvv found that 85 percent of respondents in a recent survey said their smartphone was an integral part of the lives, and in a separate survey 91 percent said their smartphone was as important in their life as their car. The bad news is that this information overload—trying to take in and respond to too much information—is causing forgetfulness, fatigue, and difficulty with

thing at a time. If we force our brain to multitask, it becomes quickly overwhelmed and overloaded." “While we may feel as if we are getting many things done at once, what is actually happening is that a little of one task is done, then a little of another task is done and so on and so forth. But everything ends up taking much longer to complete because we have to take into consideration the time it takes to switch back and forth between each task, and the time it takes us to refocus each time.”

"Labelled ‘The Goldfish effect’; social media, smartphones and the constant work cycle have essentially left the human mind with an attention span equivalent to that of a goldfish." Canberra clinical neuropsychologist Andrea Murray says there is new evidence to suggest that extensive social media and smartphone usage has a negative impact on our attention and memory systems by changing the way our brain processes incoming information. “Social networking sites such as Facebook and Instagram are designed in such a way that many things occur simultaneously, which forces us into a phenomenon known as ‘media multitasking’,” she says. “Contrary to mainstream belief, the human mind struggles to process more than one

Alarmingly, the effects of a dysfunctional attention system are widespread throughout the brain, as the attention system is closely linked to all other cognitive systems, including our memory. If our attention is working optimally, says Andrea, our memory hardware is able to effectively encode new information and retrieve old information. If it is not, then the encoding mechanism in the brain becomes faulty, and we have difficulty laying down new memories—hence, the reason you might have forgotten that deadline or dinner reservation.

Extensive social media use may also be detrimental in other ways: according to Andrea, that ‘instant gratification’ we get from posting an image can do serious damage to our wellbeing. “Every time you get a new like or new follower your reward centre in the brain releases dopamine, the same feel-good neurotransmitter that is released when you eat chocolate or have sex,” she says. “Because of the instantly gratifying nature of this interaction with social media you want to return again and again. The problem with extensive use is that when you come back to your reality, it may not provide you with the same level or frequency of gratification, and in comparison, real life can feel a tad mundane." “In some people, this may wreak havoc with their day-to-day mood, and ultimately affect mental health and wellbeing.” Some helpful ways to increase our attention span and overall sense of wellbeing include any mindful activity that focuses your brain in the present moment, for example meditation, exercise or even shopping. “When we are present, we increase our brain’s ability to take in information because all of our ‘information channels’ (i.e., our senses) are alert and active,” Andrea says. “By training the brain to stay for longer and longer in the present moment, and gently pulling it back when it wanders off, we exercise the muscles of our attention system. And because of the close link between the attention system and many of our other cognitive faculties (e.g., memory), this will have widespread, positive effects of overall brain functioning.” ¡

WELLBEING PAG E

Apps to increase productivity From time tracking tools to to-do lists, there’s an abundance of resources out there to counteract the Goldfish effect and boost productivity and concentration. We delve into a few to get you started.

NOISLI

TODOIST

A way to be equal parts relaxed and productive at work, this app plays “productive” tones from environments like a coffee shop or forest, allowing you to have some distraction-free work time.

Review upcoming tasks, track deadlines and map up projects and goals with this nifty app, which lets you keep track of everything in one place so you can free up some much‑needed mental space.

noisli.com/apps

en.todoist.com

MOMENT Feeling like you’ve achieved nothing when the day ends? Look no further than your phone. A recent study showed we spend an average of four hours a day on our phones; almost half of a working day. If you’re looking to cut down, this app can track how much you use your iPhone and iPad each day. If you’re using your phone too much, you can set daily limits on yourself and be notified when you go over. You can even force yourself off your device when you’re over your limit and need to crackdown on a task that requires extra concentration. inthemoment.io

F L AT T O M AT O

THINGS For those who take their to-do lists seriously, Things has all sorts of powerful features; the latest version can slice and dice tasks into multiple views, break tasks into smaller parts with headings, and manage tasks in bulk. culturedserver1.culturedcode.com /things

Based on the Pomodoro Technique, a time management theory that advocates breaking tasks into 25-minute blocks, this app's "tomato" is your timer. After entering a task into your calendar, tap the timer and commit yourself to that task for 25-minutes. Then, you'll have a built-in 5-minute break before the timer starts again, signaling you need to continue the project or move onto the next task. If you're someone who thrives on a strict deadline, this is the app for you. flatpomodoro.com

W H AT ' S O N PAG E

INSIDER GUIDE MUST-DO EXPERIENCES FOR SS18 Canberra comes to life in the warmer weather, ushering in new experiences for every taste, interest and hobby. Words by Alexa Somerville

R E M E M B R A N C E DAY T H E I L LU S I O N I S T S – D I R EC T F R O M B R OA D WAY

11 NOV E M BE R

6 TO 16 DE C E M BE R

This year’s Remembrance Day marks the 100th anniversary of the Armistice that ended the First World War. Visit the Australian War Memorial and pause to remember those who fought and died for Australia with the special Remembrance Day and Last Post Ceremonies that will feature the eulogy of the Unknown Australian Soldier, 25 years after its first recitation by then Prime Minister Paul Keating.

AUSTRALIAN WAR MEMORIAL

CANBERRA THEATRE CENTRE Stunning acts of grand illusion, levitation, mindreading and disappearance will transfix audiences as The Illusionists presents an all new show never seen before in Australia. Experience rousing and sophisticated magic of inconceivable proportions, and bear witness to the mind-blowing showcases that have dazzled audiences and shattered box offices across the globe.

awm.gov.au/commemoration/ remembrance-day

canberratheatrecentre.com.au

E L EC T R I C! P O R T R A I T S T H AT P O P! U N T I L 22 A P R I L NATIONAL PORTRAIT GALLERY The National Portrait Gallery observes its twentieth birthday this summer. Featuring the influential faces of those who have shaped the nation and contributed to Australian society, Electric! Portraits That Pop! features an inspiring selection of bright, bold and colourful paintings, prints, photographs and video portraits. portrait.gov.au

AMERICAN MASTERS U N T I L 11 NOV E M BE R

D E M O C R ACY. A R E YO U I N?

NATIONAL GALLERY OF AUSTRALIA

OPE N DA I LY

Acquiring Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles—at the time, the most expensive American painting ever sold—brought the National Gallery of Australia global recognition. Its collection has grown ever since, and American Masters celebrates Pollock’s peers from the 1940s to 1980s. Examine how a generation of young artists used every medium from Abstract Expressionism, Pop Art, Neo-Dada, Photo-Realism to Performance Art to challenge traditions and reinvent modern art. Highlights include: paintings and works on paper by

New York School artists including Mark Rothko, William de Kooning, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock; a specially redesigned Wall drawing by Sol LeWitt; and a selection of light works by Dan Flavin, Bruce Nauman, Keith Sonnier and James Turrell. nga.gov.au/americanmasters Pictured above: Jackson Pollock, Blue poles,1952. Oil, enamel, aluminium paint, glass on canvas. National Gallery of Australia. © Pollock-Krasner Foundation/ARS/Copyright Agency. Image courtesy of the National Gallery of Australia.

MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIAN DEMOCRACY AT OLD PARLIAMENT HOUSE Australian democracy is a work in progress. Curiously, at a time of stability and unparalleled economic growth, confidence in our political and social institutions is at its lowest point in decades. But giving up on them is not the answer. This permanent exhibition explores the role each of us play in sustaining democracy. moadoph.gov.au/exhibitions/ democracy-are-you-in

W H AT ' S O N PAG E

H E AT H L E D G E R: A L I F E I N P I C T U R ES HANDMADE MARKET

U N T I L 10 F E BRUA RY 2019

7 TO 9 DE C E M BE R

NATIONAL FILM AND SOUND ARCHIVE OF AUSTRALIA

EXHIBITION PARK

Audiences around the world know Heath Ledger as a charismatic movie star who met a tragic end. Now they have a chance to discover Heath’s creative process and deep passion for the film industry and visual arts in a unique exhibition curated in collaboration with his family. Explore a selection of film costumes and props, Heath’s own character research journals, celebrity portraits and acting awards and more.

One of Canberra’s most prominent markets, this mecca of artisan vendors leads the way in local homewares, fashion and food. The Handmade Market presents the perfect opportunity to buy unique artisan products and support Australian small businesses. Better yet, the December instalment features an extra Friday night market for the extended opportunity to shop, socialise and get into the Christmas spirit.

nfsa.gov.au

handmadecanberra.com.au

CELL AR DOOR EV E RY SAT U R DAY NISHI GRAND STAIRCASE, NEWACTON

Exploring Canberra’s sprawling vineyards may seem like a monumental task but thanks to Cellar Door you can now sample local varietals every Saturday from Nishi’s central NewActon location. Curated by the Canberra District Wine Association and regularly accompanied by other local producers, it’s the perfect opportunity to taste the region’s best. newacton.com.au

G R A P ES O F M I R T H 2 DE C E M BE R PIALLIGO ESTATE

Join host Merrick Watts and his funny friends (Tom Gleeson, Peter Helliar, Becky Lucas, Akmal Saleh and Nikki Britton); comedy, music, food, wine— everything you could possibly wish for. An entire afternoon of entertainment, as lovers of comedy and wine sprawl out across the grounds of Pialligo Estate with plenty of food, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. grapesofmirth.com.au

ANTHEMS 17 NOV E M BE R NATIONAL ARBORETUM CANBERRA

D ES I G N C A N B E R R A 5 TO 25 NOV E M BE R CRAFT ACT

While millennials will be partying at Spilt Milk in November, Anthems will be turning back the clock with some of Australia’s most iconic artists. Sing along with music legends John Farnham, Daryl Braithwaite, Kate Ceberano and The Black Sorrows. If you like your music with a side of charcuterie, there are meat and cheese platters available for preorder too.

A festival planned to honour all things design, DESIGN Canberra will feature over 100 events, exhibitions, talks, tours, markets, artists’ studios, and open homes. With design in Canberra’s DNA, beginning with Walter Burley Griffin’s vision a century ago, DESIGN Canberra will celebrate local collaborations as well national and international connections. Get along to their fifth annual showcase to get inspired.

anthemslive.com.au

designcanberrafestival.com.au

LUXURY WATERFRONT APARTMENTS NOW SELLING. 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS IN THE HEART OF HONEYSUCKLE 35 HONEYSUCKLE DRIVE, NEWCASTLE REGISTER YOUR INTEREST COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL 1800 851 936 HUNTINGTON.DOMAGROUP.COM.AU