Australian Times weekly newspaper | 20 March 2012

TRAVEL P9ENTERTAINMENT P8 ENTERTAINMENT P7

20 March - 26 March 2012 Issue: 404

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Oz politicians remember one of Australias finest citizens MARGARET WHITLAM will be farewelled at a private ceremony after her family declined the Labor federal governments offer of a state funeral.

Mrs Whitlam, the 92-year-old wife of former Labor prime minister Gough Whitlam, died in Sydneys eastern suburbs on Saturday after being hospitalised when she suffered a fall last month.

We understand the Whitlam family has made private funeral arrangements and we respect the familys wishes, a spokeswoman for Prime Minister Julia Gillard said in a statement on Monday.

In federal parliament, MPs rose and stood in silence after Ms Gillard moved a condolence motion that paid tribute to Mrs Whitlams public service.

Ms Gillard expressed parliaments deep regret over her death and profound sympathy for her family.

She was a great and gracious Australian whose death felt like a loss in the family, especially for those in the Labor movement, she added.

Ukraine with a differenceCrimea, Koktobel and plov

Success and Glamour

Jo Elvin on life in the UK

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WIKILEAKS founder Julian Assange plans to run for a seat in the Australian Senate, despite being under house arrest in the United Kingdom.

WikiLeaks announced its intentions via Twitter on Saturday, saying the organisation also planned to field a candidate to run against Prime Minister Julia Gillard in her seat of Lalor (Victoria) at the next election.

We have discovered that it is possible for Julian Assange to run for the Australian Senate while detained [in the UK]. Julian has decided to run, the WikiLeaks website tweeted.

The name of the Laylor [sic] candidate and the state Julian will run for will be announced at the appropriate time.

WikiLeaks is also considering the notion of establishing its own political party, declaring it not only feasible but likely given the support levels in Australia.

Queensland born Assange has lived overseas for a substantial part of the last decade but remains an Australian citizen. He is currently being detained in England, facing possible extradition to Sweden where police want to question him over allegations that he sexually assaulted two women

SENATOR ASSANGE?n Calls grow for the Australian government to intervene in the Julian Assange extradition saga after the WikiLeaks founder announced plans to run for the Australian Senate from the UK

By Tim Martin

in 2010. West Australian Greens senator

Scott Ludlam said on Sunday that he wants the Australian government to intervene on a diplomatic level in the

extradition matter and finally stand up for Assange.

It is not acceptable that the Australian government has stayed silent, so we are calling on the Prime

Minister to make her position very clear and for the new Foreign Minister Bob Carr to stick up for an Australian

20 March - 26 March 20122 | News

the hard word> NATHAN MOTTON

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Every day on Share your comments on these and more stories online: AustralianTimes.co.uk

Your Say

Whats your view?

On: The Aussie peace protester of London Totally agree with a brave woman. So many Human Rights to fight - Aboriginal The occupations of peoples lands and the fighting goes on against fascism, Zionism, greed, corruption. Good on yer mate. Bless you brave lady.

Diz AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

On: The Aussie peace protester of London Babs is a peace warrior who along with Brian will NEVER be forgotten. Their constant reminder that we are murdering people with a fake democracy is essential.Quite a few already know this, including the war criminals in the Houses of parliament who are DESPERATE to shut her up by foul means, as they DONT have recourse to any legitimate ones.PEACEFULLY protesting is NOT a Criminal act. Anyone who makes it so is a DICTATOR.

MichaelAustralianTimes.co.uk/news

On: Dud root affair leaves Australias feral underclass exposed Why are you drawing attention to a minority of extreme posters? So much of the criticism against Stynes and Negus was justified and the real story that later developed was the self-righteous reactions by feminists and smug lefties who, yet again, rehabilitated a female offender into a hapless victim. So now we have poor little Im not perfect Yumi Stynes being attacked and threatened by rednecked, Aussie misogynists. Never mind the facts.

JemandAustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

On: Queensland farmers march to highlight CSG threatNo evidence to suggest food security is being compromised by the mining industry? Is that what the Senate Inquiry into the impacts of mining in the Murray Darling Basin found? Is it what the Senate Inquiry into CSG industy impacts, led by Heffernan found? The leaky wells investigation by DERM, the Arrow bore blowout and the BTEX contamination detections were not major incidents? The QGC illegal clearing incident?

All storms in teacups? Is the more than 90% of the Darling Downs under exploration permits under no threat? How many current coal mines would have been prevented by Strategic Cropping Land laws had such legislation been in place two decades ago? As for Blighs groundwater monitoring, what good will it do in locations where groundwater flows so slowly that contamination is not detected until too late?

Nathan RenaultAustralianTimes.co.uk/news

On: Returning to Australia what a culture shock!The placement of the @ key on a keyboard and a price increase at McDonalds now constitute a culture shock? After a decade in London, I can think of a few things slightly more shocking about Australian culture than these trivial examplesracial intolerance being at the top of that list. Angers me on every visit home.

MaggieAustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

EVER wondered what type of traveller you are. We have come up with four different types of travellers to categorise yourself under ahead of your next trip. Here at The Hard Word, weve decided we can, at times, represent all four.

The IgnoramusYou are regarded by the cynics as naive and overtly ignorant. You, for whatever reason, thought you could go into this whole travelling caper with the blinkers on, the wool pulled over your eyes. You dont tend to read too much into your chosen destination/s prior to leaving. Whats the point you ask? Ill work it out when I get there you say to your concerned family members, as if knowing where to go and how best to get there will somehow spoil the fun of it all.

You dont care for learning the native tongue, even just the basics, for fear of sounding daft or embarrassing yourself. You certainly dont feel the need to try the local cuisine, preferring rather to stick to Full English Breakfasts. If you cant pronounce it, you certainly wont eat it. You prefer to stay within the confines of your four star hotel, as youd paid so much money to stay there. Its far superior to slumming it on the streets with the locals. And you travel to developing countries, countries who possess little wealth, which gives you a sense of self-entitlement, like youre superior to everyone else because you were lucky enough to be born into a middle-class family in a wealthy country.

What kind of traveller are you?n Spring has sprung in the UK and as Antipodeans wake from their travel slumber, there is a very serious question that needs to be asked. What kind of traveller are you?

The Lonely PlaneteerBy definition of your categorisation, you live and breathe Lonely Planet guides. You read them three-four times before you board the plane (or the three-month long ferry ride, if thats what it says), lapping up its each and every word as though it were written by some kind of demi-god. Those whove travelled numerous times to your chosen destination still cannot be regarded as any type of authority on the subject. Travel agents whove travelled there for ten years dont stand a chance of convincing you that that cheap three star hotel is actually perfect for your needs, because Lonely Planet makes no mention of it.

The MacGyver extraordinaireResting on holidays is the work of the devil. You are up with the sparrows every morning, and are tucked into bed shortly after eight oclock. You hate the idea of travel guides telling you where you can and cant go on walking treks, preferring to make your own way to the summit. You load your days with surfing, kayaking, snorkelling, riding and mountaineering, while finding enough time for a daily touch-up in the gym.

The Obsessive Worrier You write itineraries like your life depended on it. You develop an hour-by-hour breakdown of your entire three week holiday, and email it to anyone who may or may not care. Itineraries, to you, are absolutely crucial to a successful trip away. You book all of your days events well in advance, and refuse to stray from this invaluable paperwork. You despise the thought of throwing a bit of caution to

the wind and seeing what the day may bring. Organisation is key for you. You find it difficult to relax on holiday, especially when outside the confines of your hotel. You worry about all the things that could go wrong. Youve read all the horror stories on Trip Advisor (and ignored the positive ones) and are adamant that its going to happen to you. You go through a tube of sterilising gel every day for fear of catching an incurable disease.

Riding scooters, driving cars in foreign countries are strictly forbidden. Imagine what could happen! You worry about flying and whether or not your ear drums might burst, rendering you deaf forever. You dont like putting your chair back on the plane too quickly, in case you upset the person sitting behind you

Which one are you? Have your say ...

AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

Editors Note: I think The Hard Word may have overlooked a category. The Care Free Traveller: who happily goes with whatever the travel dice roll them. Whether it be slumming on the streets for a night or backtracking a couple of days to catch up with some cool peeps they met weeks before, this type of traveller are happy to do whatever. They make an effort and get involved and try to make the most out of their travelling holiday. Theyve got a start point and an end point but what happens in between is up to chance and fun and you...

News | 3AustralianTimes.co.uk

AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

Tributes flood in after Whitlam death

The prime minister recalled the very great romance between the Whitlams, who first met at a University of Sydney student party in 1939.

Margaret knew what she was getting in for, she said.

The conversation (that) began that night lasted for another 73 years.

The marriage of almost 70 years was a partnership of equals, Ms Gillard said, noting that Mrs Whitlam was a woman who more than matched in brains, humour and panache her formidable and dynamic husband.

Goughs privilege in finding Margaret was a privilege our nation shared and made its own.

Immediately after the dramatic events of November 11, 1975, Mrs Whitlam told Gough that instead of accepting the note from Governor-General John Kerr withdrawing his commission, he should have torn it up, Labor Senator John Faulkner told the senate.

Senator Faulkner spoke to Mr Whitlam on Monday to convey his condolences.

Australia has lost one of its finest citizens, he said.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott said Australians were united in mourning Mrs Whitlams death.

We join with the prime minister in expressing our gratitude for a great life well lived.

She was a beloved spouse and model for Australian women who had acted as a vital reality check on her husband, he said.

Former prime minister Kevin Rudd remembered Mrs Whitlam as warm and generous, with a truly wicked sense of humour.

We all loved her dearly, Mr Rudd told parliament, while speaking of the tears

in his house at the weekend, particularly from his wife Therese Rein who considered Mrs Whitlam a soul mate.

Liberal frontbencher Malcolm Turnbull, the member for Wentworth, was Mrs Whitlams parliamentary representative.

He reflected on his decades-long friendship with Mrs Whitlam and pointed to a well-known picture of a young Bondi girl that has accompanied many stories about her.

There in her swimming costume, looking out into the future, he said.

You could take the girl out of Bondi but you could never take the Bondi out of the girl, he said, adding that 92 had been a hell of an innings.

Labor minister Tanya Plibersek thanked her humorous, fun, witty, intelligent and lively friend for supporting her preselection, despite Mr Whitlams decision to back another Labor candidate.

MPs on both side stood in silence as a sign of respect.

Mrs Whitlam is survived by her husband Gough, her four children Antony, Nicholas, Stephen and Catherine, her grandchildren Alex, Alice, Helen, Edward and Peter, and her great-grandchildren Oscar, Isabella, Charlotte and Sam. - AAP

Continued from p1...


citizen in trouble, Senator Ludlam told reporters in Brisbane.

We saw when a kid was busted in Bali for possession of quantities of marijuana, people were put on planes, phones rang.

The Australian government appropriately did everything that it could to make sure his legal and consular rights were upheld.

Now in the case of an Australian journalist [Julian Assange] who has got on the wrong side of the US government ...nothing, not a word. And that has to stop.

The Australian government has to stand up for him and that means legal, diplomatic and political pressure, now.

I think if the Prime Minister can keep her head down and stay silent, she is really badly mistaken. Theres a huge amount of support in Australia for him.

However the Australian government has previously blasted WikiLeaks and Julia Gillard described its release of US diplomatic cables in 2010 as grossly irresponsible.

The PM even ordered the Australian Federal Police to determine if WikiLeaks and Assange could be held liable for publishing the leaked documents but the AFP concluded that Assange and his organisation hadnt violated any Australian laws.

Meanwhile, Senator Ludlam confirmed that Assange could campaign for the Senate position from the UK but should he be successful,

the WikiLeaks founder would have to return to Australia to sit in the chamber if he won his seat.

I think it would be possible for Julian to campaign in absentia but that would presume he is under house arrest somewhere or in detention and I think that would be really alarming if by this time next year thats the case, Senator Ludlam said.

Assanges mother, Christine, supported her sons Senate push and said Australia needed more people like him in the government.

The more people we have in there that are interested in transparency and operating this government as a democracy, the better, Mrs Assange told reporters.

However, she said that the Senate bid wasnt the most important issue at the moment and called for Australia to stand up now for her son.

The more important issue is the cross-border collusion between America, Sweden, (the) UK and Australia to silence a journalist [Assange] and a media organisation [WikiLeaks] which is merely doing their job by telling the people what is going on in the corridors of power, she said. - With AAP and sources

Would you vote for Julian Assange? Should the Australian government intervene and help the WikiLeaks founder return to Australia? Have your say on AustralianTimes.co.uk/news

Australia urged to help Assange

20 March - 26 March 20124 | Voices

Grilled asparagus with soft egg

chriss kitchen

> CHRIS ARK

Feeling posh? A Fortnum & Mason visit will do it for youn Our London adventurer adopts a regal air this week and heads to Fortnum & Mason to tick #41 off her London Top 100 list.


bron inthe don BRONWYN SPENCER

RECENTLY visited by Royalty, Fortnum & Mason is one of those long standing London establishments full of British tradition that cannot be missed. Found not far from The Ritz on Piccadilly, Fortnum & Mason is a department store that can only be explained in one word - posh. While it is neither as big as Harrods nor as trendy as Selfridges, this store offers a wide range of products from fresh fruit and veggies to clothing and housewares.

When you walk into the ground floor of the store you are greeted by my favourite section - not shoes, not wine, but chocolates. They offer some gorgeous homemade chocolates, sweets and pastries as well as tins upon tins of delicious sounding biscuits all encased in duck-egg blue packaging with the famous F&M brand. It is also a great place to visit if you are tea connoisseur (or want to be) as half of this level is made up of different types of tea and assorted paraphernalia.

The first floor is what they call the Cookshop and has a variety of cooking implements and also features their famous hampers. After looking around and seeing what amazing ingredients are included I can understand why they are so popular. And Im not going to lie - I was pretty envious of the Queen receiving one earlier this month.

The next floor is where I found my second favourite section - accessories! It was so much fun looking at the silk scarves and leather gloves, not that much of it was in my price range, but a girl

can dream. This floor is also host to lots of beauty products and perfume which are great to look at and I imagine even greater to test out in their exclusive spa.

Shopping and spas isnt the only thing that Fortnum & Mason offer - they also have several on site restaurants. On the fourth floor you can take tea like the Queen while listening to a pianist in the newly renamed Diamond Jubilee Tea Room or you can visit The Fountain for lunch or dinner and be serenaded by a Jazz Guitarist. Both of these options would be fun for a treat but if youre on a beer budget and your tastes are Champagne, then the best place to go is the downstairs bar - 1707 (appropriately named, as this is how long Fortnum & Mason have been running for).

1707 is a champagne and wine bar where you can order yourself a glass off the menu, or for a 10 corkage fee, you are also welcome to make a selection from the extensive wine and champagne selection offered in the shop and drink it at the bar. Wanting a true Fortnum & Mason experience but not wanting to shell out too much we bought a reasonable bottle of pink champagne between the four of us and spent a good hour chatting over the glasses while taking in the atmosphere. 1707 also offers bar snacks and food with a cheese plate to die for.

My visit to Fortnum & Mason was one of the unexpected surprises of my London Top 100 list and I absolutely loved it. From its glistening interior to the variety of things on offer to look at there is more to this place then just being any old high street store.

WITH the summery-spring feel in the air, we are starting to see new season vegetables slowly hitting the shelves. I could be jumping the gun announcing that the good ol asparagus has arrived, but they are slowly knocking on the doors of Londons top restaurants. Normally in its peak around late April, this week a couple of asparagus boxes hit the market and we jumped on them.

Asparagus is a serious contender for heavyweight champion of the vegetables and is a winner on every menu. The asparagus season is relatively short but the British asparagus is worth the wait for its

Asparagus the king of vegetables?n The master Aussie chef of the London kitchens, Chris Ark, dishes up a delightful (and healthy) seasonal treat that is sure to have your mates coming back for more.

unbeatable flavour and freshness.The best thing with the asparagus is

that they need very little preparation for cooking.

When buying asparagus, look for the British stamp of authenticity rather than grabbing a jet lagged bunch from the other side of the globe. Its also a handy tip to look for firm but tender stalks with a deep green color and pay special attention to the tips looking for crisp closed petals. The asparagus will quickly deteriorate so its best to get cooking once you have them home. However they will survive a few days in the fridge with a damp paper towel around the base of the stalks.

Give them a good wash under cold water and remove the woody bit by holding the base of the stalk and bending it forward. The stalk will snap where the tender stalk meets the

tough woody end. Once this is done we can get cracking on with one of my favourite recipes below. Simple but a chance to really taste the freshness of this great vegetable.

Asparagus can be grilled with a light drizzle of olive oil or roasted in the oven for a few minutes. Steaming or boiling in lightly salted water brings out a refined flavour of the asparagus, especially seasoned with rock salt and a drizzle of olive oil or a knob of top quality butter.

Classically asparagus marries well with new potatoes, rosemary, tarragon and eggs of all kinds. A soft boiled egg with a couple of grilled asparagus stalks makes a tasty treat to pass around at the BBQ with mates. Heres a beaut recipe to impress with. Enjoy and happy cooking!

What you need: 1 bunch of 12 asparagus 2 soft boiled eggs 3 anchovy fillets Good quality olive oil tsp of Dijon mustard Good quality coarse Sea salt and

black pepper for grinding Small pinch of freshly chopped

parsley

AND ANCHOVY DRESSING

What To Do: Take small griddle pan and place on

medium heat. Toss asparagus in olive oil and

season with alt and pepper. Place asparagus on grill and allow

grill to score stalks all over. Take small mixing bowl and add

anchovies, mustard, oil and parsley. Whisk dressing until fillets are

broken up and oil is combined with mustard and parsley.

Remove stalks from grill and place on large platter to slightly cool.

Take eggs and break over asparagus covering dish with runny yolk.

Drizzle dressing over dish and splash of olive oil and black pepper. (Can substitute anchovies).

Voices | 5AustralianTimes.co.uk


AS we cruise around the globe, it is hard not to notice that the power of social media is all encompassing. It fits like a glove and allows freedoms and finger tip access to our family and long lost friends and fiends from our past. My mum and dad can sit on our dining room table like a jar of talking heads, peering out from my laptop, whilst they sit at their computer in Tasmania. My parents are truly amazed. And I am too. The technology we have at the moment is awe-inspiringly impressive. But what if all this power were handed to a nine year old child? How would they use it? Well, for the uninitiated, the underground network of nine year old kids using social media is very much alive and its thriving in the UK and, I expect, across the globe.

The thing is - its all about perspective.

My folks dont really understand social media too much. They dont understand why anyone would post daily comments or thoughts online. They are blissfully unaware and ignorant and actually feel sorry for us for wasting another beautiful day that they cherish so much.

For Gen Xers (Generation X) - my generation social media has been an amazing experience. Whether locating long lost pals across the globe or building huge circles of friends as we experience life in London and beyond, and then sharing everything

By Bon8 with everybody like info addicted freaks: posting, tweeting, liking, sharing - its been a beautiful thing and I love it!

However there is a dark side. For then we have the rugrats of today and a nasty shadow that is starting to permeate our lives. I have witnessed firsthand the sledging, bullying, account hacking, stalking that is infesting social media from the bedrooms of little doe eyed children who, through lack of any life experience, are totally out of control. Imagine, if you can, the damage you could have inflicted when you had just come home from a bad day at school. With the flick of your finger, you could insult your whole class, or your teacher...and basically start an adolescent riot!

Its happening all too frequently in all our schools . Teachers are so far behind the curve that the kids are in control of after school chat forums - a place where teachers fear to tread. Its an underground movement of nine year olds and the schools dont know what to do. The kids are easily fed on propaganda that is shared so fast it becomes life changing and they are rapidly creating cyber profiles that will be forever tattooed to their existence.

So what is the solution? Ensure your kids are not using it yet? Mine are forbidden. Do you educate them in the age old adages that the pen is mightier than the sword and that a shared thought or action can never be taken AustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

back? Education is surely the key but the schools are totally lost.

The irony in it all, is that to be able to see into this scary new world, you have to be their friends. This is of course a luxury that they allow, and you can be blocked on mass at the swipe of the middle finger.

So I watch. And refrain from

commenting. For to comment would wake the rugrat underground and with a deafening roar, I would be suddenly cast out and blinded forever. So as you cast your eyes across the carpark today, to the kids all texting as they leave school, dont be afraid - its not them we should be worrying about. Its the three year old sitting in the

back of their mums car playing with the iPad. That is who will have the ultimate power!

I continue to love this new cyber world but be careful out there, they are watching...

WHEN my husband and I decided to pack up and move to New Zealand three years ago, we were caught up in a whirlwind of excitement and nerves. Living life in such a beautiful place with many similarities to Australia was easy. We were able to visit our relatives in Adelaide every six months and felt more like we lived interstate than overseas.

In contrast, when we arrived in London three months ago, we became aware, very quickly, how far we truly were from home.

Spending our first Christmas away from family was far more difficult than we had imagined. Watching our family open their Christmas presents over Skype was comforting, but in some ways it felt like we were observing the tradition as outsiders.

Missing our family has never been more of an issue than when we found out that my husbands brother and his wife were expecting twins.

Overjoyed and brimming with pride, discussions quickly turned to all the amazing moments the family would share in the coming year. For us, this joy was quickly followed by the unwelcome realization that we would miss every single one of these experiences.

We knew that we would be involved as much as we possibly could be, even from over here, but there would be no cuddles, no babysitting and our first experiences as aunty and uncle would most likely be via video chat.

For the first time in my life, the excitement of travel had been severely overshadowed by the fear that we had traded a full and happy life for a much lonelier one. Could there ever be enough good

What we leave behindBy Haylee Slater

experiences overseas to justify such a trade-off?

I spent the week that followed the news, obsessing over every status update made by my family members. I was so worried that I was going to miss out on important moments in my family members lives, that I stopped living my life here.

I felt like I was stuck in limbo. As with all things in life, I decided

that the key must lie in balance. All we can do for now is make the most of the time we have here. We can gather stories to share with our niece and nephew, and learn the lessons that we might hope to teach them one day.

While we are living our busy lives in manic Britain, we can feel steadier knowing our hearts still beat to the steadier rhythm of home. I am already feeling calmer knowing that we wont be changing nappies or entertaining screaming babies any time soon.

Underground rugrats and a scary new cyber worldAustralianTimes.co.uk/voices

ITS no big secret that being alone is a lot different than being in the company of other people.

And while being married to a long-haul flight attendant certainly does have its perks (staff travel and loads of friends who possess the uncanny ability to leap-frog long early-morning queues at nightclubs) there is a flipside. Long and lonely days, sometimes weeks, of apart-time.

I dont know about you, but alone time makes me go a bit loopy.

For some, time with oneself (not a euphemism!) can be soul enriching: the perfect opportunity to catch up on neglected errands and get ones backyard in order, so to speak. However, this time for me has always proven as a chance to untidy said backyard, only to madly restore it to its former glory in the dying hours before her return.

Recently, I have become increasingly aware of how long stretches of alone time can adversely affect my thinking

crozfrom oz> LEE CROSSLEY

Alone time in London

and behaviour.Take right now, for example.

Shes been gone nearly two hours and already dilemmas are starting to present themselves. From out of nowhere, problems are appearing.

Finish this column or do the dishes?In my mind reality, perhaps? the

saucepan and the cheese grater are mocking me: You wont clean us. We can sit filthy for days when shes gone before you lift a finger. Youll start on us and then find something else to do. Half-done, Crossley!

Theyre right. An all-too familiar story.

Would things be different if she were here? Probably not. I mean, of course they would! What am I thinking?! (You see, loss of focus, its happening already...).

There are just so many things inside my apartment that compete for my attention and most of them get it, too.

Right now, Birmingham and Chelsea are playing in the FA Cup; theres a pile of Year 10 exercise books that need marking (just realised how weird thatd read if I wasnt a teacher); and theres the bloody dishes. Oh, and this

column too (but this is procrastination disguised as keeping my one-day-Ill-be-a-writer dream alive).

Theres a young chap on the TV show Skins who makes his decisions by rolling a die: roll a two and hell punch the next person who walks through the door, roll a six and hell streak naked across the sports field.

Im not so bold. Im more practical. But Im also spontaneous. These quirks combine to manifest themselves into some amusing mannerisms and thought processes, Ive been told. Right now: Im thirsty and, come to think of it, a bit hungry. So, Ill solve this by making a cup of tea. Back in two shakes.

While at the sink I glanced down at the sad-looking, neglected saucepans peering sheepishly from the sink. I half-filled the sink only to be distracted by the half-finished column (this one).

Only to realise it was now complete. Better finish those dishes!

What does alone time do to you? Comment online at ...

20 March - 26 March 20126 | Voices

HAVE you been unexpectedly left in the deep end with no job or home on your arrival in the United Kingdom?

Exhausted after your long-haul flight to London, you survey the crowds of people at the arrival gate for the familiar face who promised to pick you up?

There is your friend of almost 10 years, tapping their finger on their watch exasperated at how long they had to wait for you while you declared everything in your bag to customs. They scowl at you and you gesture towards the two customs officials put on duty to process four plane loads of people. There is a warm embrace and an exchange of friendly banter.

On arriving in the United Kingdom, you usually have up to two years to make it in your chosen career or find the love of your life who will marry you just so you can stay longer. However that first initial night in London, youre simply reflecting on what an amazing journey it has been just getting to this side of the planet. As you curl up on the inflatable airbed on your friends lounge floor you cannot help but feel you are destined for big things.

Unfortunately though, your guaranteed bed has made other plans without telling you. That makeshift bed that made you feel so safe the night you first arrived can do nothing to help you now as you face the reality of a douche mate and the prospect of no home.

What happens when you no longer have your guaranteed base to help you establish yourself in the UK? I discovered via Facebook that my home was to be no more. My mates UK friends started congratulating them on finding a flat for her and her partner. I did not know that my temporary bed was so temporary. Thanks to the heads up from Facebook, I knew I had about a

Without a couch (and a hope)

By Shannon Gillies month to get out. My friend never did tell me what was happening but acted a little too happy when on my third day of staying with her I was able to announce I would be out in two weeks.

Thankfully I had found the British Universities North America Club - BUNAC. With their induction programme, I was able to find a job and a place to stay so quickly. Not wanting to be an unexpected burden on other friends and also dreading their reaction when I told them what happened, I hit the wonderful world of the internet with guidance from BUNAC. This is what I did and what I recommend to fellow travellers who suddenly find themselves cut adrift:

Get in touch with the agency or company that might have helped you with your visa. While I did not tell BUNAC what my situation was, I did point out that I needed a job quickly and preferably with a house. I was given a raft of websites to check. My saviour in the end was a site called Work About: Workabout.uk.com/home.aspx. It is a website set up for hospitality employers to get new workers. There are a surprisingly large amount of jobs attached to houses which is very helpful. The website Gumtree can also be of help or try Dee Coopers (Livein-jobs.co.uk). The internet is amazing in circumstances like these. If you need an out, there are always possibilities available.

I also found that I had to get over my ego very quickly in regards to what work Id do while in the United Kingdom. This helped me settle into the work scene quicker than if I had been stubborn and picky. Needless to say I survived my sudden close call with homelessness. And now I am happily living the UK expat life!


2012 AUSSIE WOMAN OF THE YEAR: With special thanks to Qantas, Australian Business and Australian Times. (Images by Tim Martin)

The 2012 Australian Woman of the Year Awards in picturesn We celebrate the people who made this years Awards night held at The Langham in London so special.

More photos online at AustralianTimes.co.uk/photo-galleries

Entertainment | 7AustralianTimes.co.uk

AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

Check out what were following today on AustralianTimes.co.uk and follow

us on Twitter @AustralianTimes

What were following

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For full details...

Christa Vi23 March@ Lock Tavern, Camden

Australian Pink Floyd24 Mar @ Hammersmith Apollo

Phoebe Killdeer 29 March@ Dingwalls, Camden

Steve Hughes5-6 April@ Leicester Sq Theatre

Parkway Drive7 April @ Indig02

Boy & Bear10 April@ The Borderline, Soho

Pete Murray12 April@ Scala, Kings Cross

Matt Corby17 April@ The Bowery

Bic Runga18 April@ Shepherds Bush Empire

Tracer24 April@ Islington O2 Academy

Midnight Youth15 May@ The Borderline, Soho

The Jezabels17 May@ Electric Brixton

Temper Trap21-22 May@ KOKO, Camden

...and more Aussie gigs go to: AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

WHILE Steve Hughes delivers his material in a deadpan manner on stage, out of character the comedian is laid back and chatty.

The ex heavy metal drummer enthusiastically engages with each question, occasionally mumbles mid-sentence and often finishes his thought with a hearty laugh.

Heres what we discussed ahead of his upcoming London gigs:

Why do you prefer to live in the UK rather than in Australia?Because I can work, I can see bands, I can get to Europe in an hour, Hughes explains, laughing.

Australia is a great place although it is quite expensive.

He bemoans the price of alcohol in Australia, specifically the cost of Jack Daniels.

The comedian says he still likes Australia very much and if it was closer to the UK he would set up a base there, but as its an exhausting 24-hour plane ride away theres no chance of that happening.

What do you think of Australian politics at the moment? Hughes says he doesnt follow Aussie politics too closely, although he does make a quip about the craziness of the Kevin Rudd/Julia Gillard situation, chuckling to himself.

He says that most Australians he encounters see through the political games our politicians play.

The hairy funnyman of Aussie comedy n Aussie comedian Steve Hughes spoke to HANNAH CARRODUS about his philosophies on life, Aussie politics and the end of the world.

Some of your humor is politically incorrect. Have you ever told a joke that in hindsight you felt went too far or that you regretted?No, not really, Hughes smiles, adding that compared with other comedy acts his show is relatively tame.

He gives the example of fellow Aussie Jim Jeffries as a comedian whose material is much more provocative.

Most comedy that is offensive is not funny, Hughes says.

Its easy to be rude but you dont have to be rude to be funny. And if you are rude and youre not funny than youre just f*ckin rude!

What about bad reviews?Hughes says he doesnt usually read reviews as he no longer relies on them for an ego boost or to psychologically stabilise me.

Occasionally the long haired Australian will use reviews as constructive criticism and to see whether his jokes have been interpreted as they were intended.

But in general it seems that reviews no longer faze the experienced comedian, who has been doing standup comedy for over 15 years.

Youve performed all around Europe. Whats the most difficult nationality to entertain?The Dutch!

Hughes describes his first show in the Netherlands, back in 2000, as hell on earth.

Lessons, mate, he laments, laughing energetically. F*ckin lessons.

He talks about the frosty Dutch stares he encountered; a subject matter he has raised in many of his comedy shows since.

But these days Hughes says that doing stand up in the Netherlands is no longer the terrifying experience it once was.

He says the comedy scene in the Netherlands has grown and now audiences there are more receptive to live comedy.

You talk a lot about propaganda in your shows. Do you think most people recognise propaganda?Well, propaganda is in disguise most of the time, Hughes whispers.

He says Hollywood films are the prime example of ideas being projected into the global subconscious.

Hughes talks about futuristic films in regards to Hollywood propaganda - saying that futuristic movies are almost always about death and destruction - although he stops short of explaining how these films are intended to influence viewers.

I dont go as far or as deep about the ideas I have about the world in my shows, Hughes declares.

He explains that this is because he doesnt want to make his audience feel depressed.

The comic doesnt know how to make

WITH the chaotic world of gorgeous models, oversized sunnies, teased hair and Hermes handbags poised between her perfectly manicured fingers, Jo Elvin, the Australian born editor of UK magazine Glamour, has it all.

Jo has been editor of Glamour since its launch 11 years ago. At her hand, the publication soon rose to become the UKs highest selling monthly magazine a distinction it continues to hold.

Assuming the top job at the age of 30, Jo achieved in so few years, the success that compels most eager young Aussies to try their luck in London. I asked her to share her experience, and a couple of words of advice, for those of us who are still struggling to find a footing (so headphones out and pens at the ready girls).

Perfectly elegant and sporting an is-she-really-an-Aussie accent, Jo was far less formidable and much more down to earth than the pouting Devil Wears Prada-like alpha female I had feared to find.

In our tet-a-tet, she revealed that her road to success was by no means an easy one. Her first job at Australias Dolly magazine saw her make a name for herself taking the more obscure and less glamorous stories her colleagues refused, and her first London job often involved 15 hour days, 4am starts and hundreds of empty cups of coffee.

Jo explained that you cant come to London expecting the job of your dreams after your first interview. She wasnt instantly rocketed to the top of the industry the moment she set foot outside Heathrow, but instead had to

it seem funny, for example, that a third of the worlds population may be exterminated by microchips- evidently something he has been thinking about recently.

What would your ideal world be?Hughes ponders the question momentarily.

No one would have to work if they didnt want to. And you dont have to buy land, he says.

You shouldnt have to buy land; who are you buying it off anyway? he questions.

It must have been stolen in the first place.

Hughes says his ideal world would also be a place where: I can play drums all day.

Dont miss Steve Hughes at Londons Leicester Square Theatre on 5 - 6 April

Glamour-ous Jo Elvin talks success in Londonn In an exclusive interview with our Australian Times reporter BIANCA SOLDANI, Jo Elvin gives Aussies the how to on making it big in the UK, London success and everything Glamour.

waitress her way through her first six months as the rejection letters piled up and her supply of money dwindled.

She even admitted that on one miserable London day, when her purse was feeling particularly light, she contemplated throwing in the towel. But this was of course immediately dismissed, being too stubborn to concede defeat. It must have been down to her heritage as she thinks Aussies are allergic to giving up.

True to that ideal, Jo continued to look for any job with a remote connection to publishing, and soon afterwards found herself taking up a position at a small London magazine, TV Hits.

Its not necessarily about an open door of opportunity, its about the crevice that you slip through. Just take any opportunity, even if it feels a bit crap at the time, do it! You never know who you will meet and what it will lead to.

She added, Thats easy advice to follow if youre following something you really care about doing.

And its obvious from just our brief chat that this very successful woman who hails from Sydneys west is really doing something she cares passionately about.

Jo reins in the world of celebrities, catwalks and cutting edge fashion, processes it with intelligence and style and a pinch of Aussie humour to produce a magazine thats not too high brow to intimidate middle class readers, and not to crass to leave you red-faced when you notice the guy behind you reading it over your shoulder.

But how does her team manage to keep Glamour at the forefront of ever

changing fashion and social trends and on top of the magazine industry year after year?

Be interested in everything she said with a laugh. You need to read a lot to keep up with whats new. She also relies on bloggers who she finds have an eye for spotting the hottest trends on the streets, and surrounds herself with a young team.

Glamour also has a highly interactive website to engage with readers online, and Jo herself says shes very active on social media websites, describing Twitter as an amazing customer service tool.

[Using Twitter,] people can contact me directly if they have an issue with the magazine and I can respond immediately its fantastic! Its an amazing way to disseminate information and to really get to know your readers and your users.

Although Jo is certainly moving the magazine forward into the technical revolution she says shes not a doomsayer ever anticipating the end of print.

Im certainly not one of those people who think that print will be over. I dont think thats the case at all, but I think that other mediums will become more prominent.

People are becoming more tablet reliant. We do need to think about how we communicate and what medium we use to promote our brand. People will always want the content of Glamour, but the way they want it I think inevitably will start to move on.

Mindful of not labouring the point, she

said critics who have forecast the end of the print age are not necessarily correct.

I dont think that everybody has to stop buying newspapers and cross over to this thing. They should stop getting hysterical about it.

Attending the recent Australian Woman of the Year in the UK awards as the key-note guest speaker, Jo noticed a common trait among the Awards worthy nominees.

It seems to me the most overriding thing is passion. Everyone in their field is completely obsessed with what they do. Its really, really inspiring.

Its fitting then that Jo concluded with some inspirational advice of her own. To young Aussies trying to find their career path, whether it be in the UK or Australia, she said they just have to throw themselves into the game and just go for it. She also cited the all too familiar trio of determination, perseverance and passion. And hearing them from someone whos actually used them to achieve so much success, lends a little more potency.

AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

#Ian Thorpe@jogracehealyGutted for Ian Thorpe missing out on the Olympics. Still the best there ever was.

@ManVsPuppetIan Thorpe failed to make the Australian Olympic team joining an exclusive club: those of us who wont be competing at the Olympics.

@debritzThanks to the TV news I just, finally, heard the names of some swimmers who are not Ian Thorpe but are going to the Olympics.

@flagrantfoulIan Thorpe doesnt qualify for 2012 Olympics. Guess he doesnt want to get crushed by Phelps !

@Roberto_PavoniA great shame Ian Thorpe hasnt qualified for London 2012. Would have loved to have seen a successful comeback.

20 March - 26 March 20128 | Entertainment

music from the motherland

> BACKPACK SOUNDS

IN September 2009, the Australasian Performing Rights Association (APRA/AMCOS) decided to create a position for a UK Member Services Representative to be based in London. I was fortunate enough to get the job which includes providing support and information to the 250 or so Australian and NZ songwriters living in the UK at any given time. APRA/AMCOS is also the organisation which collects and distributes royalties to songwriters and composers in Australia and New Zealand.

I moved to London in 1997 having married a Londoner. Back home in Sydney, I was a jazz singer/songwriter and a busy session singer and voice-over artist. When I moved to the UK I kind of fell into songwriting fulltime after co-writing some songs for a library music company and then signing to a publisher as a pop writer. My first major project was co-writing an album for the singer Louise (Louise Redknapp married to former English footballer Jamie Redknapp). I went on to co-write a bunch of top 10s and along the way I had a brilliant time travelling to Stockholm, New York, LA and all over Europe writing lyrics and melodies with some weird and wonderful producers and artists. I also released my first jazz album called Out There which managed to make it into the top ten critics choice for Billboard

The Sheila supporting Australian songwriters in Europen This week weve got a lady right near the top of Aussie pop in Europe guest editing Music from the Motherland. Cathi Odgen is the go to woman for all Aussie musicians in the UK and shes got a bit of advice for our aspiring musos.

By Cathi Ogden Magazine in 2001. Then I joined the band Fac 15 and we released a load of tracks on Hed Kandi records. In 2006, I auditioned for a TV commercial for a womens car insurance company called Sheilas Wheels. I got the part and suddenly found myself all over the TV, then all over the UK, doing gigs with my fellow Sheilas (Emma and Carly both British) in clubs and at festivals. The Sheilas are still going (although not so much live work recently as Carly has just had her second beautiful baby girl in three years) and we still represent Sheilas Wheels.

The point of all that background is that all those experiences have given me a wonderful insight into not only songwriting, but all kinds of areas of the UK music industry. So when APRA/AMCOS invited me to take on the part-time role of Member Services Rep, I genuinely got excited about the prospect of being part of a support structure for other writers who were living so far from home. Did I mention - I love my job! I must say that about five times a day. I get to meet all sorts of songwriters, bands and managers who are either here for the long haul or passing through on tour. I also help out Sounds Australia at The Great Escape Festival in Brighton and at MIDEM in Cannes, where they provide incredible support for Australian bands, artists, managers and industry who are attending the events.

Basically, my job here in the UK is to make sure our members are well informed and making the most royalties they can. I hold member meetings every few months and invite either speakers from the music industry or a well-known songwriter to share their knowledge. I write a column for APRA/AMCOS Bytes which is the e-magazine all members receive each month where I shamelessly promote the gigs and releases of our UK members and chat about what gigs and industry events Ive recently been to. I still have time for my own music (Ive got another album coming out this year) and I fortunately thrive on helping people and being really busy, so it all works out rather well. I know what its like to start out having absolutely no clue about the workings of the industry and being allergic to filling in something as horrid as a form even if it meant Id make more money. So a big part of my job is gently persuading the members to do the things they need to do in order to increase their chances of earning a living from the one thing were all so passionate about: making music. If youre an Australia or NZ songwriter living in the UK and you havent been in contact with me yet what are you waiting for? Email me at [email protected] or visit Apra-amcos.com.au .

Our guest editors are brought to you by Backpack Sounds (BackpackSounds.com) AustralianTimes.co.uk/entertainment

Travel | 9AustralianTimes.co.uk

natural odeon for festival participants. The festival has two main stages. Nu

Jazz is an open air scene of beachfront revelry. While OHS experts may be appalled by the proximity of the water to heavy drinkers, it is the favoured location for vodka-swilling bathers as they listen to the likes of Russian supergroup Billys Band Jazz Sextet or the entrancing tunes of Alina Orlova from Lithuania.

The Voloshinskaya Stage, nestled into the backyard garden of the one of Koktebels grand old homes and the former residence of 19th Century poet Maximilian Voloshin, welcomes less amplified, and often more international artists. It is a haven of calm from the nudity and evening mosh pit at the Nu Jazz stage.

It is here that the respected Abraham Burton Quartet played in 2011 as did the youthful Gianni Gagliardi Trio. Its also where I heard one of the best jazz piano concerts ever by Yuri Kuznetzov. Sitting at a small, ivory, baby-grand worthy of Elton John, Kuznetnov grimaced and clenched his teeth as he transformed the most innocuous beginnings into tempestuous and dazzling spectacles. Particularly enjoyable was a disjointed waltz that grew in fluidity as it increased in volume.

The festival motto is appropriately A Separate Reality. Koktebel is surely one of the few places in Ukraine where reclining Buddha statues can be exchanged for a handful of chickpeas and where bongo-playing, hip-swaying free souls will not draw the ire of Soviet-steeped steely police officers.

Yet not all of Ukraines reality is kept at the festival door. Koktebel is a challenge for travellers

without the fundamentals of the Cyrillic alphabet. Even the Festival has poor signage and very, very little English. Luckily, with the Festival rapidly internationalising and AustralianTimes.co.uk/travel

travel

ON THE MAP

This week were putting

ukraine

KOKTEBEL, a townlet of 3,000 inhabitants lost on the eastern coast of Ukraines Crimean peninsula, is readying for takeoff with the growing success of the Koktebel International Jazz Festival.

Ukraines Crimea has long been the preferred beach holiday destination of Russian tourists. Today, as Ukraine opens its vast country to the outside world, more and more foreigners are visiting the peninsula more famous in Australia for a war and a bird-named nurse than for its azure water and cultural events.

A jazz festival

n WILL FITZGIBBON heads to a Ukrainian Black Sea resort town to witness a gem of an international jazz festival.But things are changing. Ukraine

recently ranked as one of Lonely Planets top 10 destinations for 2012 and the rugged beauty of Crimea is bound to be a part of it. This is music to the ears of organisers of the annual Koktebel International Jazz Festival, held each September.

Koktebel town has always been attractive for bohemia - poets, painters, musicians and all creative people, says 2011 Koktebel Jazz Festival coordinator, Sasha Yerchenko.

With a population of less than 3,000,

during most of the year Koktebel is easy to miss and difficult to reach. But since the festival began in 2003, thousands of visitors pour in every year from across the globe.

Visitors usually come by bus from the neighbouring city of Feodosia after a 15-hour train ride from Ukraines capital Kyiv (Kiev) to Crimeas administrative centre Simferopol. The less adventurous may be tempted by a short Wizz Air flight from Kyiv or even London to Simferopol.

Arriving in Koktebel is not itself a top tourist moment. The main street passes like a gash through the town before resuming its path along the Crimean coast. At Festival time, however, you will know when you have arrived. Tell tale signs include obviously un-Crimean dreadlocked youths carrying guitars and, usefully, the omnipresent purple wrist band that identifies those with Festival tickets.

While the town itself may not be much, the nature certainly is. Clear water attracts multitudes to the beaches. The Koktebel bay is enclosed by craggy mountains that jut up at each end of the beach, providing a

with sun, sand and plenty of plov

with Ukraines trendiest and most English-ready youth attending, help is never far away.

If you find the time to sleep, the Dim-2 hotel is more like a family-oriented compound of holiday apartments. It is a short walk from the Festival beachfront via unlit and unsealed footpaths dangerously hugging the main road out of town. Despite its inconvenient location, it is one of the best picks of the area for comfort, cleanliness and reliability. Of course, other options are plentiful. Small and larger hotels dot Koktebels High Street around the tiny yet chaotic bus station. Those who speak Russian may wish to take any one of the old women, or babushkas, up on their offer of housing (look for ); it would certainly be a unique way to experience Crimean life.

Feeding yourself will never be a problem in Koktebel throughout the festival. Restaurants and ad hoc eateries line the beachfront promenade selling the best of Crimean Tatar cuisine (mounds of rice or plov, kebabs, shashliks and Brobdingnagian raviolis or mantay) while alcohol and the Eastern European wheat beer, kvass, are everywhere.

The lazy wont even have to leave the beach thanks to the regular ambulant food sellers. Toothless women in socks and sandals navigate their way across the beach offering honey-coated, rope-like twirls of Tatar baklava for one dollar.

And that pretty much sums up the Koktebel International Jazz Festival experience; bathers on the one hand enjoying the unique and exotic scenery of Crimean Ukraine and contemporary groovers on the other seeking out one of the best kept secrets of international music festivals.

For more information about the Koktebel Jazz Festival, head to Koktebel.info/en

20 March - 26 March 201210 | Travel

THE best way to discover the tiny island of Rodrigues (a semi-autonomous island part of the Republic of Mauritius) is to get up close and personal with the white sand beaches, coral reefs and fresh air. Hire a motorbike and feel the wind in your hair, or hike along the abundance of perfect paradise beaches dipping into the reef lagoon for some occasional off-shore snorkeling.

Exerting yourself physically will be especially rewarding when you sit down for a meal at the end of the day. Rodrigues has some of the tastiest food in all of the Mascarene Islands due to the fertile volcanic soil and abundance of fresh produce and seafood.

Heres to getting active, reconnecting with nature and finding a bit of peace and quiet in Rodrigues.

HikingExploring the eastern beaches of Anse Ali, Saint Francois

and Gravier is best done walking as some of the most beautiful beaches can only be reached by well heeled footpaths. Set in a protected reserve, Trou dArgent has been voted one of the 30 best preserved beaches in the world. With around 20 beaches to choose from you are bound to have your personal favourite where you can catch a tan away from wandering eyes.

A hike has the potential to work up an appetite and if a picnic is not quite your thing you may want to pop in at

n Rodrigues. Its the place even Prince William chooses to get away from it all and sit down on the beach unhindered for a cocktail with his Kate. Rodrigues is a simple and pristine Mauritian island, set in the Indian Ocean, far from any reminders of big city life.

La Belle Rodrigaise for a barbecue on the beach. The Baptistes have a thatched veranda on the beach outside their guesthouse where they often serve lunch overlooking the lagoon. Here you can also enjoy a massage in a private nook on the beach, waves hushing in the distance.

Snorkelling & scuba diving

Sheltered coral reefs are often just a short distance away from some of the inlets and bays around the island so keep the snorkeling gear handy at all times. This is especially true for boat trips around the lagoon and hikes along the eastern beaches, or simply off the main beach in Anse Aux Anglais (English Bay).

While shallow reefs provide much enchantment, there is just something about discovering the depths of the ocean. The Bouba Diving Center is based at Mourouk Ebony Hotel and run by a NAUI instructor with a passion for the underwater world. Dive outings may be confined to the numerous sites that the large winding channel or Grande Passe in the south east of the island contains, but will also challenge you to explore the barrier reef which still holds a great deal of secrets.

Windsurfing & kitesurfing

The Morouk Ebony hotel also offers kitesurfing facilities as well as lessons. Some say that this part of the world is one of the best spots to kite surf because of the large lagoon and the amount of wind that the island gets on the south eastern side. The windsurf, funboard and kitesurf club will help you discover the island of Rodrigues from a whole

new perspective. Under professional supervision, you will surely appreciate the new sensations offered by the impressively massive lagoon.

Cable slidingIn the Montagne Bois Noir, there is a zipline or cable slide called Tyrodrig. The cables are set across a 400 metre canyon with a view of the Rodrigues lagoon and the idea is to slide across the valley from cliff to cliff, making four crossings in all. Its a smooth glide across, almost like flying and it gives a birds eye view of the green valley and the turquoise lagoon beyond.

Deep sea fishingThe Rod Fishing Club currently holds the World Record for a Blue Marlin of 561.500 kg on 80 lbs stand-up (Stephan Kreupl, 30 January 2007). Rodrigues also holds a record in jigging for a Dogtooth Tuna of 104.500 kg on a line of 100 lbs (Christian Mercier, 25 October 2007). Just some proof that you will have access to some great fishing spots offering you the opportunity to catch phenomenal fish. Most fishing clubs will provide you with a basic kit.

Local fishermen will also be pleased to have you join them informally on their daily fishing outings. Why not hop on a traditional boat for an octopus fishing experience in the early morning?

BirdingCaptain Christophe learned some special boat building skills in France and now his wooden sail boat provides the most exotic way to visit Ile aux Cocos, a small island sanctuary in the large lagoon surrounding Rodrigues. Christophes boat is also heavily

ON THE MAP

This week were putting

rodrigues

The antidote to big city life

Where to stay:MouroukEbonyhotelinGaviers:bestforkitesurfing&hiking

PointeVenushotelinEnglishBay:bestforsnorkelling&nightlife

CasesaGardeniasguesthouseintheMontagneBoisNoir:bestforcablesliding,mountainclimbing&gourmet

Where to eat:CoralieLaDifference:bestview&coconutcreamoctopuscurry

VillamonTresor:homelyatmospherecompletewithcookinglessons

BambouRestou:sundowners&pizzawhichcanleadtoaparty

LaBelleRodriguaise:forarusticbarbecuerightonthebeach

ChezMadamelaRose:traditionalcuisineinagardenterracesetting

FormoreaboutLizeswritingandtraveladventuresvisitherblog,Parisandpomegranates.comorfollowherontwitter@wordnomad

By Lize de Kock

Travel | 11AustralianTimes.co.uk

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equipped with rum, infused with fresh limes, local honey and Madagascan vanilla.

Once on the island an official guide is required to accompany guests on a bird viewing walk. Noddies, lesser noddies and fairy terns commonly nest here. Some exploring surely works up an appetite and Christophes mum has got that covered with a home cooked lunch spread of cold grilled fish and salads, including octopus salad and chili paste.

PartyingThe only place on the island with a bit of a night life buzz is Anse Aux Anglais (English Bay). Visit Bambou Restou, a sidewalk caf on the beach road, for a sunset apro (colloquial for aperitif). Its a great place to start an evening and if you get into the vibe why not also order the pizza with special ingredients. What these ingredients are, no one knows, but it makes for interesting conversation

after a few drinks. The bar also boasts a big screen for watching sport, or screening music videos while the in-house musician Miko knows how to create a chilled out island atmosphere.

On a really good night, you might even end up at Le Cocotiers nightclub, which is just around the corner and plays everything from local sega music to pop.

20 March - 26 March 201212 | Jobs & Money

Yes, it is true that the Tier 1 (Post Study Work) route will close to new applicants

on 5 April 2012. The good news however is that

under new provisions introduced by the UK Home Office, graduates who would previously been eligible under the Post-study route, will now be able to switch into Tier 2 (General).

The Tier 2 (General) will be open to recent graduates with a Bachelor, Master, PhD, PGCE or PGDE from a UK recognised or listed body. Applicants must have a skilled job offer from a licensed sponsor and be paid at least 20,000 per annum or the minimum appropriate rate for the occupation. The employer will not be required to complete a resident labour market test and the job will not be subject to the annual Tier 2 limit.

You will also be able to sponsor dependants.

Please contact our offices for further information.

Are there any alternatives to the Tier 1 Post-study Work route that I believe is being

closed? I am currently a student and was hoping to switch into this route.

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Tier 1 closure

THIS week we have seen the Australian dollar fall to its lowest level against the US dollar since mid-January 2012, as a result of the Federal Reserves policy statement which indicated a lower chance of monetary easing in the upcoming term.

Rallying towards the end of the week the Aussie came to rest at 1.059 to the US Dollar and 0.668 to the British Pound. Tim Waterer a currency dealer at CMC Markets in Sydney was cited as saying the Aussie has been able to reclaim some ground as part of the confidence play with US equities hitting some milestones. There is more upside for the Aussie against both the yen and greenback.

The Aussie remained strong for the rest of the week as the gain in global equities has increased demand for higher-yielding assets.

On a domestic front the jobs market has continued to soften. Ridout the Chief Executive officer of the Australian Industry Group was

Aussie falls

cited as saying that the Australian economy slowed in the December quarter and business expectations about economic conditions over the year ahead are more pessimistic than a year ago. Further the labour market continues to soften with employment falling and underemployment rising.

Market sentiment seems to be unsure as to what to expect in coming weeks. The Aussie could continue to fall as a slowing of the Chinese economy has been predicted based on economic data.

Eric Viloria a senior currency strategist at Forex .com was cited as saying that currently Chinese data has been relatively weak, weighing on the Australian dollar.

GBP/AUD: 1.4953EUR/AUD: 1.2433AUD/USD: 1.059AUD/JPY: 88.419

Exchange Rates at 09:55, 30 January 2012

Jobs & Money | 13AustralianTimes.co.uk

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43449_Sable_Group Ad_BlueSky_Qtr.indd 1 26/05/2011 09:33

BOOSTING productivity growth is the only way for Australians to improve their living standards, the countrys central bank chief says.

Reserve Bank of Australia governor Glenn Stevens says Australias economy has performed well in recent years but there is room for improvement.

In his address to the Credit Suisse Asian Investment Conference in Hong Kong on Monday, Mr Stevens said that while monetary policy could play a role in helping to support demand, only increased productivity could boost economic growth.

Improving productivity growth is just about the sole source of improving

RBA governor calls for productivity boostliving standards, Mr Stevens said in prepared remarks.

This is increasingly being recognised in public discussion, but it is important we do more than just debate it.

Mr Stevens said increased investment in Australia, primarily linked to the resources sector, had boosted the nations terms of trade and with it the value of the Australian dollar.

The high value of the local currency had effectively lifted the income of Australians but was forcing the domestic economy to change, expanding some sectors while causing others to contract.

Structural adaptation is hard work. Few volunteer for it, Mr Stevens said.

But we have little choice but to do it, not just to make the most of the new opportunities that have been presented but to respond to the changed circumstances that some industries face as a result.

Mr Stevens said that while the threat of a major fallout from Europes sovereign debt crisis had eased, euro zone leaders had little room for error.

I think the evidence is that European policymakers understand the importance of their response and are going to great lengths to implement it.

But there is a long way to go yet.

During that long journey, there will surely be numerous episodes of heightened anxiety, any one of which

could erupt into a more extreme crisis if one or more of the key actors makes a serious mistake. - AAP

20 March - 26 March 201214 | Sport

AustralianTimes.co.uk/sport




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a cross from the left which Nikica Jelavic headed towards goal and man-of-the-match Cahill reacted quickly to redirect it beyond Sunderland keeper Simon Mignolet.

The goal set up a replay at the Stadium of Light and the chance for Everton to return to Wembley three years after the clubs loss in the 2009 FA Cup final to Chelsea.

Cahill was one of half a dozen changes to David Moyes team following the clubs 3-0 midweek pummelling at the hands of Merseyside rivals Liverpool.

After sitting out the loss at Anfield, Cahill put in a lively performance to reinvigorate an ordinary season by his standards.

With his struggles in front of goal and niggling injuries this campaign, he has been pushed back to the midfield to try to rediscover his spark.

I thought Tim was terrific today, Everton assistant manager Steve Round said.

He looked fresh and full of energy. He was a threat in both boxes and he linked us up really well. He deserved his goal.

With his second goal of the

Aussie football flavour in Europeseason in the book, Cahill played with more confidence and came close to producing a winner on a number of occasions.

He tested Mignolet with another header which the keeper could only punch off the line but Cahills teammate Sylvain Distin blasted wide.

In the second half, Cahill burst forward and tried his luck from long range but Mignolet managed to get down even if he spilt the ball.

The Australian had another chance as Fellaini headed down a corner but his shot on the turn lacked the power to beat Mignolet.

Everton had the better of the match but Mignolet produced a fine double save in the dying minutes to prevent the home side from snatching a winner.

Meanwhile in Europe, in the Bundesliga Bayern Munich monstered Nikita Rukavytsyas Hertha Berlin 6-0 in the German capital.

Carl Valeris side Sassuolo maintained their drive towards the Serie A next season with a 3-2 win over Albinoleffe.

They sit just a point outside the automatic promotion spots.

Brett Holmans AZ Alkmaar slipped up at home and let rivals Ajax and PSV Eindhoven make up ground in

the title race in the Dutch top-flight.A goal-less draw against NAC Breda

allowed Ajax to move within one point with PSV just a further point behind with eight rounds to play.

The Aston Villa-bound Holman produced a stinging drive in the first half that was dealt with by NAC Breda goalkeeper Jelle ten Rouwelaar.

And Socceroos defender Michael Zullo made his first start for Utrecht in nearly three months as the club halted a three-match run without a win.

The 3-1 home victory over FC Groningen put Utrecht five points clear of the drop zone with a favourable draw to finish the season. - AAP



...continued on p15

advantage in their dramatic 27-22 defeat to the Sharks in Durban, their first loss in four games this season.

The Australian catalogue of hard luck stories started on Friday when the Brumbies conceded a last-minute try to lose 29-22 to the Chiefs in Tauranga.

It ended on Sunday in identical fashion, with winless Melbourne conceding a try after the final hooter in a 33-26 home loss to the Cheetahs.

The unheralded back three of the Force supplied the scoring that beat NSW, with debutant and fullback Dave Harvey tallying 16 points and winger Samu Wara their other try in just his second Super Rugby appearance and first start.

Thinking back to last year 11 of the 16 games we played we were leading

Nothing particularly Super about Aussie rugby dramasat 65 minutes but didnt convert, that was clearly an area we had to address, Force coach Richard Graham said.

We got ourselves into a similar situation today but were able to hold on.

Tonights game in isolation is really important but what we need now is to prepare and come back out and win again next week, added Graham, whose side is still running last.

The Waratahs were booed by their fans as they slumped to a third loss in four games, their worst start to a Super season since 1997.

Coach Michael Foley said the Waratahs needed to change their attitude.

The Reds produced their most fluent form of the season in Durban.

It was probably our best performance of the year, Reds coach Ewen McKenzie said.

Hamstring injuries to playmakers Mike Harris and Ben Lucas have

put them both in doubt for next weekends clash with the Bulls in Pretoria, while winger Digby Ioane has been cited for a lifting tackle.

Brumbies coach Jake White took some solace from the continued competitiveness of his unfancied team, who have two wins from three games despite being largely written off before the season.

I think people can now probably say the Brumbies are going to be competitive, White said.

Elsewhere, the Stormers scored a 27-17 home win over the Blues in Cape Town and the Highlanders shaded the Hurricanes 19-17 in Wellington.

The unbeaten Stormers and Highlanders lead the Super Rugby ladder after the first four rounds. - AAP

Webber and Ricciardo in the points in Ozan improvement on his previous personal best of fifth in 2002, 2005 and last year.

Webber blamed a clutch issue for a start in which he appeared glued to the Albert Park track as rivals zipped around him, sliding from fifth to ninth to leave him 58 laps of playing catch-up.

The results okay. The performance? I could have had any result today if we performed better at certain periods - ie: the first lap, Webber said.

After the first lap, we were a match for anyone. We were very strong, very quick.

I leave a bit frustrated but the frustrations a little higher because the positives eventually unravelled.

It was like a boxer finishing well. Sh*t first round, copped a few on the chin, then we finished off well.

At several points during the race, Webber had the fastest car on the

grid - the all-new RB8 proving adept under race conditions after driver and team had misgivings following a fifth in Saturday qualifying.

Now Webber goes to next weekends Malaysian Grand Prix with hopes high, though he remains cautious of how good a qualifying car he has.

Last night we were pretty concerned at the gap to the leaders. Theres plenty to take out of it for the team, Webber said.

In general, we have a huge amount of confidence to go to Malaysia with, which is very reassuring.

Looking at Malaysia, the car should work pretty well on the Sunday again. But theres work to do on the Saturday.

Webber also acknowledged countryman Daniel Ricciardos outstanding effort to finish ninth and pick up his first championship points at his first drive for Red Bulls junior team Toro Rosso.

Top 10 is a great result and he would have learned a lot irrespective of the

result - good on him, Webber said.It would be nice for him to be in

a much more competitive car than last year and drive around at a more intense pace.

However Ricciardo was just happy to be in the points in his home GP.

Im extremely happy and its great to score my first F1 points here at home in Australia, where the crowd has been just fantastic all weekend long, he said. - AAP

WITH all the Spring competitions off and running and a record 94 teams competing across 10 venues, teams are now eying off the first one day festival of the year to add to their trophy cabinets!

The first one day festival of the year will take place at the popular Finsbury Park (31 March) which is Try Tag Rugbys most popular venue with 21 teams participating at this venue last year. All the North London teams are very keen to head back to their old stomping ground and stake their claim for the title.

This years Finsbury Park Festival will see teams taking part from competitions all across London such as Balham, Barnes, Bermondsey, Highbury, Rotherhithe, Wood Green and even as far away as Acton.

The one day event will be run in two divisions with an A grade and a social grade. A few new teams have decided to use this tournament as a taster before committing to an eight week summer league.

Its still not too late to sign up for this

WINNING SHAPES: Can Highbury champions, Heptagonals, make it back to back Finsbury Park Festival titles?

All eyes on Finsbury Park Tag Festival

By Phillip Browne tournament that will attract an estimated 16-20 teams. Registrations close next Monday, 26 March. All details can be found at Trytagrugby.com

In other news, the last of the four Great Britain & Ireland World Cup open trials took place on Sunday at Balham. The World Cup training squads will be announced this week with a few Aussies eligible to qualify for Britain expected to be named in the squads.

If you would still like to get involved in a Spring competition, there is limited space available at the following competitions; Acton (Mon) Females, Highbury (Mon) Males, Southfields (Tues) Females, Barnes/Highbury/Kingsbury (Thurs) Males/Females

New individual registrations are welcome as this is a great chance to develop a network of friends if you are new to London.

To register for a Try Tag Rugby competition, go to www.trytagrugby.com or email [email protected] for more details.

Sport | 15AustralianTimes.co.uk



By Will Denton


THE RUBDOWN

PULLING teeth. Thats how this years pre season can best be described, as it was just as painful to sit through. Anyway, after all that, the Crows emerged as the team who seemed the most interested in winning a shiny cup in March, even if it may end up as an emergency vase for the lunch room (you can never have too many). West Coast travelled to Adelaide with good intentions of making a contest but after only Nic Naitanui and a couple of physios got off the team bus, it was clear the Eagles hearts werent in it. Amazingly the Crows only lead by a couple of goals at three quarter time and a spray by new coach Brenton Sanderson got the boys away from the buffet and onto the field. Midfielder Bernie Vince, after having a week to forget because of a few too many sherbets the previous weekend played a blinder, winning the BOG (Best On Ground) and questioning whether he should get tanked before every game.

All set and clear for the big season ahead

The South Australians didnt get too carried away with the win, only holding a ticker tape parade and declaring a public holiday. Here endeth the NAB cup as all focus now points on games that actually count for something. It has to be said though, some cynics out there are suggesting we do away with the pre season comp, extend the season and even up the travel schedule. HERESY! I mean there were only 35 players that suffered serious injuries, and only 7 of these were season ending. Dont forget about the commentators too, they have to fine-tune their repertoire, although the gold that comes out of Bruces mouth isnt forced, its instinctive. ie Judd could go over the top to MurphyDoes. You cant teach that.

Anyway, youve got less than a week to mow the lawn, wash the car, go out with the missus, read a book, or whatever it is that needs to get done because this weekend, IT BEGINS.

STEPHANIE RICE believes shes made a timely statement to her Olympic rivals four months out from defending her individual medley titles in London.

Rice overcame a preparation disrupted by shoulder troubles to produce arguably her best performance at a meet since her triumphant 2008 Beijing Olympics at the Games trials in Adelaide.

Her times in winning the 200m and 400m medley titles were her quickest since the super-suit era and ranked her first and second in the world this year respectively.

Rice admits she wasnt sure what to expect from herself coming to

Thorpe admits legend may be tarnishedIAN THORPE admits his legacy as one of the greatest swimmers of all time may have been tarnished by his failed London Olympic comeback bid.

But the five-time Olympic gold medallist says he doesnt care and the prospect of doing further damage will not deter him from swimming on because hes enjoying it.

Thorpes hopes of winning a spot on Australias team were dashed at the Olympic trials in Adelaide on Sunday, his 21st place finish in the 100m freestyle heats putting an end to the campaign.

It came after he also failed in the 200m freestyle and, asked if his legend had been diminished this week, Thorpe said: Possibly.

When I started this, I realised that was a risk, that I would damage what peoples memories were of what I did.

And its something that I didnt care that much about.

I was happy to put it at risk because I

Australian Times weekly newspaper | 20 March 2012

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Transcript of Australian Times weekly newspaper | 20 March 2012