Surrounded by nature and only 10 minutes from the centre of Canberra, Woden Valley offers one of the premier destinations for shopping, community events and recreation in Canberra.

Developed in the 1960s as Canberra’s first satellite city, Woden Valley is now a bustling area with 12 suburbs flanking the town centre. 

Services in business branding and printing

Kwik Kopy Phillip has been serving the Canberra community, particularly the Woden community, for the past 30 years, says owner Emilio Park, who took over the business 17 years ago. 

Based in the same location the entire time, Emilio says Kwik Kopy Phillip acts as an all-in-one supplier to the local business community. 

He says Kwik Kopy is not actually a photocopy house in terms of small-document scanning, rather its services vary from large-format printing, design, marketing and signage services.

“Our work is varied,” he says.

Kwik Kopy provides things as “simple as business cards” through to signage on business premises or vehicles, merchandise apparel, branding development, catalogue printing and even websites.

“Anything that you need in that space for your business, we can do,” he says. 

Emilio says Kwik Kopy has done work with the government, small, medium and big business, training organisations, local clubs and not-for-profit organisations, making its client base as varied as its services. 

Kwik Kopy Phillip, 2/10 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 6281 7700 or visit kwikkopy.com.au

Tailored legal solutions to empower clients

Signus Legal, which opened in October, has a focus on commercial law, property law, succession planning and notarial services, says director Brendan Goodger. 

“Our aim is to provide tailored legal solutions that cater to each client’s unique needs and circumstances,” he says. 

“What sets Signus Legal apart is our client-centred approach and adaptability. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions; instead, we offer personalised advice that evolves with our clients’ needs.”

Brendan says the firm’s passion stems from a genuine desire to help people navigate complex legal issues with clarity and confidence. 

“Seeing our clients achieve their goals and knowing we’ve made a positive impact in their lives is incredibly rewarding,” Brendan says.

“Serving the Woden community is a privilege because it’s a vibrant and diverse area. We appreciate the opportunity to support local businesses and families with our legal expertise, fostering strong, lasting relationships within the community. 

“With the ongoing development and CIT on the way, it’s an exciting time to be in the area.”

Brendan says a primary concern is always to ensure the firm’s clients fully understand their legal issues and options – they’re not just solving legal problems, they are educating and guiding clients through every step of the process, empowering them to make informed decisions with confidence.

Signus Legal, 48 Corinna Street, Woden. Call 5133 5664, or visit signus.legal

New way of operating, same level of support

Arthritis ACT is launching a new way of operating out of its southside venue, says CEO Rebecca Davey.

“We are closing our one-on-one consulting rooms down there, however, we will be expanding all the group exercise programs we run from our Pearce location,” she says. 

“That includes tai-chi for falls prevention, it includes our strength and balance classes, which are very popular, it includes our Pilates classes, which are becoming more popular, and we have upcoming changes to our yoga program as well, particularly our chi yoga program, which has been well utilised over the years.”

Arthritis ACT has an agreement with the owners of Aquatic Achievers in Calwell and Aqua Harmony in Kambah to keep hydrotherapy going on the southside. 

“Arthritis ACT thanks these two businesses for continuing to support our community,” says Rebecca, and encourages people to contact Arthritis ACT for details. 

Rebecca says land-based group classes are also good for seniors looking to maintain their strength and balance, in turn helping to avoid falls.

Group classes benefit seniors in more than just the physical sense, she says.

“It keeps people connected to their community and provides them with friends who are in the same place as they are, and understand what they’re going through, and in many ways we’re just a conduit to that occurring,” she says.

Arthritis ACT, Pain Support & ME/CFS ACT, 170 Haydon Drive, Bruce. Call 1800 011041 or visit arthritisact.org.au

Michelle helps others to put their best foot forward

Principal podiatrist at Canberra Podiatry Michelle Prophet says she has the expertise and passion for helping others to put their best foot forward.

“My journey began long before I opened my own business in 1997,” she says.

“Prior to that milestone, I worked alongside my father, Stephen Prophet, a renowned orthopedic appliance consultant, and together we crafted orthotics and shoes, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving podiatry practice and eventually inclusive of a physiotherapist, David Kennard.”

Michelle says her business is a hub for all aspects of podiatry and physiotherapy, where she and her team offer a wide range of services.

“My own special interests within the field are biomechanics, with a particular focus on gait and posture analysis, as well as podopediatrics (the assessment of children), sports podiatry, and a dedicated emphasis on dance and ballet,” she says.

“We’re proud to highlight the unique strengths and passions of our dedicated team members.

“Jake, our senior podiatrist, is a true enthusiast in all aspects of podiatry. Mai comes highly recommended for her proficiency in wound care, laser therapy, and providing comprehensive treatments, our remarkable practitioner Mia is our youngest podiatrist, based at our Queanbeyan clinic, and our friendly reception staff Eva at Canberra Podiatry and Chrissie at Qcity Podiatry, are always ready to help.”

Canberra Podiatry, 4 Chifley Place. Call 6281 1200, or visit canberrapodiatry.com.au

Leading law firm with decades of experience

Ken Hubert, of Capon and Hubert, began his career as an articled clerk with Romano and Verducci, and spent some time as an associate assisting Justice Kelly, says finance director Rhonda Hubert.

“He has spent his working life in legal practices in Canberra,” she says.

“He then worked with William G Pierce, eventually buying out the practice, which then merged with that of Geoff Capon, and became what is now known as Capon and Hubert.”

Ken and Geoff made a deliberate decision to keep their practice in the suburbs, firstly at Mawson and then in Phillip, says Rhonda, because Ken and Geoff always wanted to work with ordinary people and assist them with issues they face.

Rhonda says Ken’s legal career spans nearly 40 years.

“Ken’s main area of expertise revolves around family matters, where he listens to clients to define issues and determines possible options, before he then handles negotiations and court proceedings,” Rhonda says.

“Ken aims to define what is most important to his clients, walking through the process with them to achieve an outcome they can live with.”

Daryn Griffiths joined Capon and Hubert more than six years ago, says Rhonda, and his area of expertise is with property law, handling residential and commercial work. He also reviews retirement village agreements, she says.

Capon and Hubert Lawyers and Mediators, first floor, 32-38 Townshend Street, Phillip. Call 6152 9203 or visit chsol.com.au

Making access to eyewear easy

Curtin Optical stocks a wide range of eyewear and accessories, says owner Corey Nicholls.

Having been a part of the Curtin community for 29 years, he says Curtin Optical has three experienced optometrists available for appointments from Mondays to Fridays. 

“We cater to all tastes – from budget to well-known brands,” says Corey.

Curtin Optical also offers mobile optical dispensing services – spectacle selections and deliveries to the elderly or people unable to come into the store due to disability, he says.

“This includes spectacle repairs and adjustments, and an after-hours service,” says Corey.

“In addition, Curtin Optical offers an express service for those who have lost or broken their spectacles (Rx dependent). 

“Curtin Optical’s in-store services can offer a same-day turnaround and its mobile jobs have a 24-hour turnaround.”

Corey says its independence from large chains gives customers a more personalised service.

He says they are also providers to the ACT pension scheme and DVA, with Curtin Optical offering a 10 per cent discount to ACT Seniors Card holders on complete spectacles, when their card is presented at ordering.

Curtin Optical. Shop 1B, Curtin Place, Curtin. Call 6281 1220 or visit curtinoptical.com.au

Helping separated families move forward

Anna Wynne & Associates, started in 2018, provides mediation and family law services across Australia, says owner Anna Wynne. 

“We help families work through separation with dignity and saving on legal fees,” she says.

“We are passionate about helping families stay out of court and to come up with solutions that work for them. 

“We have seen what lengthy court battles can do to families in terms of cost and emotional damage and we want to help people avoid that.

“We also make sure that our service to each client is right for them and work with the client to make sure they are empowered and able to make decisions for themselves.”

Anna says she is deeply passionate about helping families during the period where separation occurs. 

She says that by supporting families through separation, they can help people move forward, and find better outcomes for any children involved.

Anna says she loves the community in south Canberra. 

“There is a wonderful community spirit and I am happy that I can be a part of it,” she says.

Anna says she is always happy to help a person who is a bit lost in the legal arena, and they can book a time to chat via the website. 

“If I can point someone in the right direction I’m happy to do so,” she says.

Anna Wynne and Associates, 7 Neptune Street, Phillip. Call 6190 6159, or visit awynnelegal.com.au

Make sure they’re the right shoes for running

“Running has a lot of benefits,” says Nick Walshe, owner of The Runners Shop.

“It’s got fitness benefits, health benefits, it’s got social benefits and I think what people are finding nowadays is that running is really an all-year sport.

“It’s not something that you have to wait until the weather is warm to do.”

Nick says running can be a great way to get the day started and to warm up by getting the blood circulating.

But, with so many people discovering running, Nick says it’s important to be wearing the correct shoes and gear. 

“Running can be hard on the body,” he says.

“When people run, studies show that there’s a force equal to about four times their body weight that’s going through their feet, knees and their lower back, so having adequate cushioning in the running shoes to help the body absorb the shock is really important.” 

Nick says this is particularly important for people who are getting into running for the first time and they’re increasing their level of activity but that it is just as important for seasonal runners. 

He says comfortable running socks can also go a long way to making the running experience a lot easier and more enjoyable, as can proper, breathable running gear.

The Runners Shop, 76 Dundas Court, Phillip. Call 6285 3508, or visit therunnersshop.com.au

Discover the joy of artistic expression

Lavender Art Studios has been the heart of artistic expression since 1999, says Elita Mackay, owner. 

Offering a dynamic range of art classes and workshops for young people and adults, Elita says their mission is “to nurture talent and ignite passion for the arts in a supportive and inspiring environment”.

“Our weekly term art classes cater to all skill levels,” she says. 

“Whether you’re a budding artist or a seasoned creator, our expert instructors will guide you through a journey of artistic discovery.”

Elita says young artists can explore various mediums and techniques, building a solid foundation and finding their unique style, and adult classes offer a space to refine skills, experiment with new forms, and connect with like-minded individuals.

“For our adult participants, we offer more than just weekly classes,” says Elita. 

“Our high-country art retreats are a highlight, providing a serene and inspiring backdrop for intensive creative exploration. 

“These retreats are perfect for those looking to delve deeper into their practice, surrounded by the natural beauty of the high country. 

“Additionally, we offer specialised art workshops that focus on specific techniques or mediums, allowing artists to hone their skills and expand their artistic horizons.”

Elita says they also have a well-stocked fine-art materials shop with a wide selection of high-quality supplies, with knowledgeable staff always on hand to help. 

“Our community of artists continues to grow, and we are committed to providing opportunities for creative growth and expression for many years to come,” she says.

Lavender Art Studios, First Floor, 42 Townsend Street, Phillip. Call 0412 649770, or visit lavenderartstudios.com.au