Week beginning April 10 2024

Melissa Clark Bacon Through Her Lens Atmosphere Press, April 2024.

Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.

Through Her Lens is accomplished storytelling with several threads that move smoothly through the narrative. Seamless links intertwine the past, romance, detailed searches on the ground and in the air for signs of the rumoured German V1s and V2s, a woman’s determination to give women in wartime the graphic history they deserve and her own fight against public and private discrimination. Lady Millicent Trayford is not always a sympathetic character, as her story lines are complex, but she provides a valuable central figure, the motivation for her actions is worth engaging with and she affords an insight into the way in which women’s personal aspirations can be complicated by public demands. The chapters are bounded by a Prologue and Epilogue, each adding an enlightening addition to the narrative. I particularly liked the description of Picasso’s Guernica in the Prologue and the clever way it established the foundation for so much in the rest of the narrative. See Books: Reviews for the complete review.

Louise Milligan Pheasants Nest Allen & Unwin, March 2024.

Thank you, NetGalley, for providing me with this uncorrected proof for review.

Louise Milligan’s thriller is set in familiar Australian territory, drawing on well-known murders in the Belanglo State Forest to establish a context and then moving beyond those fearful memories to provide her mystery with new locales. One of these is Pheasant’s Nest Bridge where strong winds often shake a car venturing across, sheer sides lead to ominous water, less well-known deaths of a sad and gruesome nature are referred to, and a metal cage has been built to discourage suicides. But, before the reader gets to these ominous events and descriptions the exuberant and attractive main character is introduced. See Books: Reviews for the complete review.

After Covid update: Louise Milligan and Amy Remeikis – Canberra Times Meet the Author; Secret London; NGA; Discover the best things to do in Canberra this June, July, and August; Australia’s next governor-general: Who is she, and what has been the reaction?; Farewell to the Sydney theatre that gave Baz Luhrmann his start.

Covid update for Canberra

Louise Milligan and Amy Remeikis: Canberra Times – Meet the Author

I mentioned this program of presentations recently as I had reviewed Kathy Lette’s The Revenge Club and then attended her Meet the Author session. Louise Milligan and Amy Remeikis presented a lively to and fro, with a focus on journalism rather than going into a great amount of detail about the book. However, Louise Milligan was enthusiastic about her move into writing fiction, and this came through the discussion about the pitfalls and disappointments of contemporary journalism as seen by the speakers.

The follow up scribe feature was excellent, appearing as it did in a continuing theme of the discussion. Prominent is Milligan’s current work on 4 Corners. Her description of the process undertaken by that program to ensure that anything that goes to air has been meticulously researched was impressive. Milligan is clearly as dedicated to producing well researched scrupulous programs of fact as the fiction that she has so successfully debuted with Pheasants Nest.

I certainly liked Milligan’s reference to the importance of reading novels when young. She referred to their formative value, impressing upon the audience the role of novels in creating an understanding of and appreciation of nuances. This arose in the context of the journalists’ discussion of the negative aspects of living up on one side or the other of a debate. This, it was averred, led to attacks on those who have a different viewpoint and a desire to pick holes in arguments. This criticism, it was noted, is not to devalue the role of further investigation. An example is the Brittany Higgins coverage, where the presumption of innocence has been used to attack the complainant. *

*This is my understanding of the discussion. A podcast of the discussion and questions is available.

Beautiful image from Secret London

London is just COVERED in cherry blossom: @steven.maddison

Also, from Secret London

A Breathtakingly Immersive Blossom Experience Arrives In London This Week, And It’s Completely Free To Visit

Be transported into this blooming lovely blossom-scape and experience the joyful illusion of petals raining down on you with the most advanced floor to ceiling screens in the world.

 KATIE FORGE – STAFF WRITER • 2 APRIL, 2024

Spring has (nearly) sprung, the sun is (almost) shining, and the beautiful (interactive) blossom is mere moments away from blooming at the Outernet, as their brand new immersive exhibition, Nature’s Confetti, floats into London this week.

In an attempt to brighten up the capital city and bring the joy of blossom-season to more people; National Trust have transformed the UK’s most visited cultural attraction into a blossomy wonderland for Londoners to enjoy this Spring. And it won’t cost you a single penny.

Bringing some serious flower power to the immersive entertainment space; this bloomin’ gorgeous experience will allow visitors to admire the beautiful blossomy goodness on giant floor-to-ceiling, wraparound screens (the most advanced of their kind in the entire world, FYI).

The three minute video has been designed by Outernet’s creative team and will give viewers the opportunity to experience a breathtaking illusion of petals raining down on them from above. Visitors will also be able to use their body movements to control the screens and see how blossom trees grow. The video will be accompanied by uplifting music, specially-composed by Father to perfectly complement the inspirational visuals on the screen.

The piece is set to be a sheer spectacle and aims to spread the message of how important it is for us to cherish the glory of nature and preserve it for future generations. Especially in the face of current environmental threats. Visitors will have the opportunity to donate to National Trust’s ‘Plant a Tree’ appeal, which aims to plant 20 million trees by 2030 (four million of which are expected to be blossom trees). A ‘tap to donate’ station will be installed in the space during the run of Nature’s Confetti.

Nisha Nath, Head of Brand and Creative at the National Trust, said: “We hope over the next few weeks thousands, if not millions of people will have the chance to experience this colourful, joyful confetti – and that it will mark a high point of their day as they travel through the capital.”

Jessica Dracup-Holland, Chief Marketing Officer from Outernet, commented: “We want audiences to feel immersed in nature, to transport them through the beauty and magic of blossom. We want to encourage a sense of wonderment and rejuvenation, a haven in the centre of London that will transport and inspire.”

Nature’s Confetti will feature twice an hour at Outernet’s Now Building between April 4 – April 28.

BOOK NOW GAUGUIN’S WORLD: TŌNA IHO, TŌNA AOOpen 29 Jun – 7 Oct

Tickets are now on sale for our major winter exhibition Gauguin’s World: Tōna Iho, Tōna Ao. This landmark presentation is a rare opportunity to follow Paul Gauguin’s artistic journey and global travel – from his Impressionist beginnings in 1873 to his final destination in French Polynesia.   Featuring over 130 works, the exhibition includes some of Gauguin’s most recognised masterpieces, many of which were created in the Pacific region. The exhibition offers new perspectives on Gauguin’s life and work, his artistic influences and networks, as well as his historical impact and contemporary legacies. Join as a new National Gallery Member and receive a complimentary ticket, the latest information on exhibitions, exclusive events and more.

BOOK

Discover the best things to do in Canberra this June, July, and August.*

Canberra celebrates each season in style and winter is no exception. Why not have a snow ball fight at Corin Forest, hunt for truffles, or cheer on your favourite rugby team?

Taste treasured truffles

Sample the delights of the Canberra region’s truffle growers from mid-June through to August. The prized Black perigord truffle is on the menu at restaurants, cafes and wineries across the capital thanks to the region’s cool climate growing conditions. Enjoy a paddock to plate experience or join a truffle hunt. The Truffle Festival is a must for all foodies.

Build a snowman at Corin Forest

You don’t have to travel to the ski fields to hit the slopes. Just 45-minutes from the city, Corin Forest has easy beginners’ slopes designed to show kids the snow ropes from tobogganing to the basics of snowboarding. Build snowmen or start an epic snowball fight before feasting on woodfired pizza and hot chocolate at the cosy café.

Find a moment of calm amongst 44,000 trees

Just six kilometres from the city centre, this living collection of endangered and rare species also features spectacular views and remarkable architecture. Each July trees are lovingly wrapped in colourful scarves to keep them warm during winter. With an impressive 94 forests and 20 kilometres of multi-purpose trails, stroll or cycle through the trails that crisscross the National Arboretum Canberra. 

Meet animals big and small

Diving, catching crustaceans, and racing each other through the water, the little penguins that call the National Zoo & Aquarium are always entertaining to watch. All named after famous rappers, these penguins are part of one of many breeding programs. Meet and feed giraffes, white lions, meerkats, owls and cheetahs. 

Indoor fun for the whole family

Head to Kingpin next where you’ll be spoiled for choice with laser tag, bowling, arcade games, escape rooms, and an impressive food and drink menu on offer.

Taste food flavoured by fire

Curl up by the fireplace and feast on seasonal produce at Canberra’s hottest new restaurants. In the heart of the city, enjoy ethically sourced Australian produce cooked over fire and coals with Asian barbeque specialists Wilma. With a menu that changes weekly but always features their woodfired oven, head to Onzieme in Kingston for fresh eats and a wonderful wine menu.

See sweeping views and endangered animals

Just a 45-minute drive from the city centre you’ll find Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve. Known for its amazing views and walks, the reserve helps protect and breed native, endangered animals. Winter is a great time to see superb lyrebirds, sight platypus in the sanctuary ponds, and listen to the calls of native frog species. 

Time it right and in nearby Namadgi National Park you’ll see snow capped mountains and ‘roos hopping through winter scenes.

Sip craft brews and local gins

Taste award-winning craft beers at Braddon brewpub BentSpoke Brewing Co, which took out top place in the Great Australasian Beer Spectacular 2021. Gin lovers flock to The Canberra Distillery famed for its collaborations and unique flavours. For those who fancy both, head to the Dairy Road precinct where you’ll find Capital Brewing Co neighbouring Big River Distilling. Join Dave’s Tours to taste all the capital’s best drinks.

*Attractive photos came with this information about things to do in Canberra. Unfortunately, copyright issues prevented me from loading them here. This seems to defeat the purpose of advertising Canberra…!

Sam Mostyn

Australia’s next governor-general: Who is she, and what has been the reaction?

Sezen Bakan
Apr 03, 2024, updated Apr 04, 2024

Just what does the governor-general do?

Source: TND

Australia’s next governor-general will be Samantha Mostyn – the second woman in the country’s history to take on the role.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced on Wednesday that Mostyn had been approved by King Charles and will be sworn in as Australia’s 28th governor-general on July 1, replacing David Hurley.

“Ms Mostyn is a modern and optimistic leader for our modern and optimistic nation,” Albanese said.

“I am confident Ms Mostyn will discharge her duties as governor-general with her customary dedication, creativity and compassion – and an unwavering sense of service to our nation.”

Reaction to new governor-general

Mostyn’s appointment to the role of governor-general garnered broad cross-party approval and messages of support from a number of high-profile Australians and organisations.

Many pointed to her extensive background in leadership roles, which range from business to gender equality advocacy.

“She will bring a wealth of experience and compassion to the role of GG,” Minister for the Environment and Water Tanya Plibersek posted on X.

“She is an outstanding choice,” Independent MP Zoe Daniel wrote.

Liberal MP Kellie Sloane wrote on X that Mostyn was “one of the most impressive professionals of her generation” thanks to her influence across areas such as sport, climate change and women’s empowerment.

Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie told Sky News Mostyn was a “great appointment”, and that McKenzie expected she would continue her advocacy in her new role.

Former prime minister Paul Keating, who Mostyn previously worked with as a communications policy adviser, said her experience in public, community and business life – along with her “innate ability” and values – qualified her for the “exalted position” of governor-general.

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton said Mostyn was well known to many people within the government and he wished her the “very best” in her new role.

Who is Samantha Mostyn?

Born in Canberra and having spent her childhood travelling around Australia and internationally thanks to her father’s army career, Mostyn gained an arts law degree at Australian National University and, years later, an honorary doctorate in laws from the same institution in 2018.

Her resume is long and wide ranging, but here are some highlights.

Mostyn began her professional career as an associate in the NSW Supreme Court of Appeal, and after a few years working as a solicitor, became a communications policy adviser for several Labor politicians.

In 2005 she became the first female AFL commissioner, a position she held until 2017, during which time she contributed to the development of the AFL’s Respect and Responsibility Policy and advocated for the creation of the AFL Women’s league.

Beyond sport, she has held senior roles in organisations advocating for women, international development, mental health, diversity, the arts and the climate.

These include, but are not limited to: Beyond Blue, the Climate Council, Ausfilm, and the Women’s Economic Opportunity Review.
Mostyn has held senior executive positions with the likes of IAG, Optus, and Aware Super, along with non-executive roles with Virgin Australia, Transurban and Mirvac.

In 2020, she received the United Nations Day Honour Award in recognition of her efforts to advance sustainable development and her leadership in diversity and inclusion in Australia.

The next year, Mostyn was awarded an AO for distinguished service to business, sustainability, the community, and women.

In her personal life, she has been described as “incredibly loyal” and modest; her long-time friend, playwright Suzie Miller, told Sydney Morning Herald in 2019 that Mostyn needed to celebrate her achievements more.

What is a governor-general?

The governor-general is a representative for the reigning British monarch.

They are Australia’s head of state and commander-in-chief of the Australian Defence Force.

The position carries a significant amount of power.

For example, a bill can only become a law if the governor-general agrees to it on behalf of King Charles, although no governor-general has ever refused to give Royal Assent.

The governor-general is also able to appoint a prime minister if an election has not resulted in a clear outcome, or dismiss a prime minister – as seen with the 1975 dismissal of Gough Whitlam.

Farewell to the Sydney theatre that gave Baz Luhrmann his start

Story by Lenny Ann Low  • 4h • 4 min read

Dwarfed by neighbouring buildings, its leadlight windows, black wooden front doors and 156-year-old stone structure tiny against Sydney CBD skyscrapers, the Genesian Theatre on Kent Street is moving on.

Named after St Genesius, the patron saint of actors, its long-time resident company, marking 70 years of continuous theatre shows in the 125-seat Victorian gothic church site this month, is preparing to transfer to a new home in Rozelle.

The Genesian Theatre in Sydney’s CBD is is moving to a new venue in Rozelle.© Wolter Peeters

“It’s been a long journey,” Barry Nielsen, Genesian Theatre director says. “Lots of people know it’s happening and many say, ‘It’s such a shame’.

Built in 1868 as St John’s Church and owned by the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney, the building was sold in 2017 with plans to incorporate it into a multimillion-dollar hotel redevelopment.

Previously home to a poorhouse, the Kursaal Theatre and the first Matthew Talbot Hostel, the Genesian Theatre Company, which was founded in 1944, took residence in 1954 with a production of Murder in the Cathedral. There have been 464 major public productions since the company was founded.

(From left) Andrew Badger, Barry Nielsen, president of the Genesian Theatre Company, and members Michael Schell and Grant Fraser.© Wolter Peeters

Nielsen anticipates the new 132-seat theatre space, in the parish hall of St Joseph’s Rozelle next to Sydney Community College, will be under way this year.

But first, the company must leave a lot behind. The theatre has two ghosts, regularly making appearances, members say, backstage and beside the proscenium arch.

They are also farewelling a stage trod by Genesian alumni such as actors Angela Punch McGregor, Bryan Brown, Peter Carroll and Judi Farr, actor and director John Bell, playwright and director Nick Enright and writer and academic Coral Lansbury, mother of former Australian prime minister Malcolm Turnbull. Michael Schell, who joined in 1973, recalls Baz Luhrmann performing at the Genesian.

“His first time ever on stage was in this theatre,” Schell says.

“His next-door neighbour dragged him in for The Winslow Boy around 1980, 81, and that was that.”

Taped on one wall is An Actor’s Prayer, spoken by company members before each show. The company’s lush red velvet curtains, prop stained-glass windows and rows of red velvet seats, all salvaged from the demolished Her Majesty’s Theatre in Haymarket, will also be left behind.

“There are incredible compliance issues with creating a performance space now,” Nielsen says. “It’s quite onerous and expensive.

“If anyone asks why are there no new small theatres, I can tell you that is why.”

But the Genesian Theatre Company’s passion and work ethic has never waned. Nielsen says the group’s loyal and diverse membership, about 120-strong and open to anyone aged 18 and over, allows people of all ages, backgrounds and theatre aspirations to participate.

“It’s not just acting,” he says, “It’s working as, and often learning to be, a stage manager, set or sound designer, lighting and sound operator or front-of-house administrator.

“We have members who are in their 90s who have been part of the company for most of their lives.”

The company, which calls itself unpaid or community theatre rather than amateur, survives entirely from ticket sales. Prices are kept low at $30 to $35. “People come because it’s affordable,” Nielsen says. “That’s a really big part of our philosophy. It’s also theatre most people are happy to see.

“You can bring your 12-year-old kid, you can bring your 90-year-old grandmother. It’s the sort of theatre everyone can enjoy.”

Show seasons, regularly sold out, can range from Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire to Agatha Christie mysteries, Neil Simons comedies, the canon of Oscar Wilde, William Shakespeare, Noel Coward, Jane Austen adaptations and Australian classics.

Andrew Badger, 22, the newest member, who discovered the company last year during a season of Steel Magnolias, recalls being impassioned immediately.

“The cast was amazing, the set dressing was amazing, the whole thing was phenomenal,” he says. “After the show, my friend and I discovered auditions for the next show, Plaza Suite, were the next day.

“So we auditioned, and I was cast in the play.”

This month, Badger has swapped acting to become stage manager for the Genesian’s current production, Strangers On a Train.

“No one is here for money,” he says. “We’re all here because of our love for the craft itself. You don’t get a lot of divas backstage.”

Nielsen is sad to leave the Kent Street home but keenly anticipates their fresh base welcoming the regular crowds and members old and new.

“There’s a role for anyone who wants to be involved,” he says. “This is a place you can learn skills, whether it’s acting, sound and lighting, publicity, management.

“You don’t have to be interested in being an actor; you just have be interested in being part of a group that absolutely loves theatre.”

Strangers On a Train is at the Genesian Theatre until April 20.

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Collection of theatre programs from the Genesian Theatre Company. See this lengthy list at: