Here’s a special advertising feature with a twist of April Fool’s Day fun with a $1500 Harvey Norman Belconnen voucher just waiting to be won. Take a look.

Here’s a special advertising feature with a twist of April Fool’s Day fun.

In each of the advertisements showing on the feature’s pages (and only in the advertisements) single letters of text are missing in a word. You can search those advertisements on the digital edition (page 22-28). 

To be in the running to win a free $1500 gift card for the Harvey Norman Belconnen store, all you have to do is find the missing letters and unscramble them into three words. 

Here’s a clue: there are 21 letters to collect and once you have them, work out what they spell. Here’s another clue, they make three words (six letters, six letters and nine letters).

Once you’ve cracked the code, email your three-word answer with your full name, address, phone number, email and date of birth to tim@citynews.com.au by 5pm April 3. The winner will be judged on April 5 and contacted by phone. Entrants must be 18+. The judge’s decision is final. The prize is only applicable to be used at the Belconnen storefront.

Digital edition March 27

Teaching confidence in learning to drive

Revolution Driver Training in Canberra offers comprehensive driving lessons tailored for modern vehicles, says CEO Steve Lake.

“We utilise contemporary teaching techniques that incorporate technology and online resources to enhance learning,” he says. 

“At Revolution Driver Training, we pride ourselves on having both male and female instructors, which fosters a comfortable environment for diverse learners.”

With a key focus on safety and responsible driving practices, Steve says Revolution aims to equip drivers with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate today’s roads responsibly. 

“We are here to contribute to the overall safety of the community,” he says. 

Steve says fostering confidence in driving cars is an honour. 

“A lot of drivers come out of the courses surprised at how much space they need to keep in front of them when they drive,” says Steve. 

“They come out feeling more confident and aware of what hazards to be looking for and what responses to implement.

“It is our goal to ensure that every new driver is given as much attention, motivation, skills and confidence to enable them to successfully commence their driving career.”

Revolution Driver Training. 83-101 Lysaght Street, Mitchell. Call 6147 6296 or visit revolutiondrivertraining.com.au

Matching the perfect shoe to the foot

Owned and managed by podiatrist Jane Earl, Happy Fit Footwear is home to Canberra’s largest collection of podiatrist-approved and orthotic-friendly footwear. 

“I personally select the shoes for their support and comfort, making sure that I am catering for feet of all shapes and sizes,” says Jane. 

With a large selection of sandals, boots and sneakers across a range of brands, Jane says they are currently running discounts up to 50 per cent. 

“We frequently have customers in the store who have been struggling for months to find shoes,” she says. 

“One very memorable recent experience, was a lady who was trying to find shoes to accommodate her orthotics and tricky feet.

“Our lovely staff listened to her needs, measured her feet and were able to show her several pairs of shoes that fit beautifully. 

“She was delighted to leave with two pairs of stylish sneakers and we ordered in a third pair for her in another colour.”

Taking pleasure in knowing that her customers are catered to for their every need, Jane says it is an honour at Happy Fit Footwear to find shoes that suit a customer’s needs and make sure they leave happy and satisfied. 

Happy Fit Footwear, Shop 11, 11 Bougainville Street, Griffith and 10/146 Scollay Street, Greenway. Call 6176 3422 or visit happyfitfootwear.com.au

Custom-made jewellery with a timeless elegance

From the first sketch to the final polish, each piece of jewellery is meticulously crafted to symbolise a story, says Venetia Major, owner of Venetia Major – Bespoke Jewellery at Hall. 

“Specialising in custom-designed and handmade jewellery, Venetia is your passport to a world of unparalleled beauty, with a focus on creating jewellery that transcends the ordinary,” she says.

“Venetia possesses a rare skill, transforming your unique vision into a breathtaking reality.”

Venetia says customers can choose from an array of ethically sourced diamonds and precious gems, or supply their own, select the perfect metal, and tailor every intricate detail to match their style.

“Our diamonds are of the highest quality, and expertly set to radiate brilliance for a lifetime,” she says.

“Book a design appointment or visit the studio in Hall, only 19 minutes from the city!”

Venetia Major – Bespoke Jewellery, 3/8 Victoria Street, Hall. Call 6230 9587, or visit venetiamajor.com.au

Lollies to share between generations

Lolly Swagman has been excitedly exploring new tastes for nearly three decades, says owner Ian Richardson.

Located in the heart of the Southern Highlands, the lolly shop stocks all-time favourite treats and the latest trending tastes from around the world.

“We’ve got American Reese’s, Hershey’s and candy corn, English bon bons and chocolates, sours and super sours, Dutch liquorice, Scottish tablet and our own Mrs Swag’s Fudge,” says Ian.

“We lost count at 1300 different treats and we know it’s more than that.”

Ian says sour is a popular taste at the moment, and they have a range of options, from the delightfully tangy to the tear jerking for adults.

He says freeze dried lollies are also big right now, and they have a selection of all the best flavours, including watermelon.

Ian says the store is a common stop on people’s trip to Berrima.

“It’s a happy place with kids excitedly exploring for new tastes, older people reminiscing and sharing in the thrill of finding a favourite and the great stories that go with them,” he says.

“We often see people who’d come as children now bringing in their own children and sharing their experiences, which is lovely to be allowed to join in on. It’s nice to have that history.”

Lolly Swagman, 11 Old Hume Highway, Berrima. Call 4877 1137, or visit lollyswagman.com.au

A sky-high spectacle for the ages

Aviation enthusiasts are being asked to mark their calendars with the Temora Aviation Museum hosting its April Aircraft Showcase on Saturday April 12, promising a thrilling day of history, action and up-close encounters with legendary aircraft. 

“We have an incredible selection of aircraft displayed,” says CEO Peter Harper. 

“Including the Tiger Moth, Ryan, Spitfire, O-2A, Bird Dog, Mustang and visiting aircraft.”

With more aircraft to be announced, Peter says the day should be an unforgettable aviation celebration. 

“Gates open at 10am, with a Flightline Walk from 10.10am to 10.30am,” he says. 

“This allows visitors to explore the aircraft up close while the Winging It session takes place.” 

At 11am, Peter says the sky will come alive with a thrilling two-hour flying program.

“After landing, visitors can walk the flight line, take photos and chat with pilots.”

Visitors are also encouraged to try the full-motion Warbird Simulators for a hands-on flying experience.

“When it’s time to refuel, the Guardhouse Cafe will be serving delicious food and barista coffee from two locations,” says Peter. 

“Before leaving, be sure to visit the gift shop to grab some Temora Aviation Museum merch at the Gift Shop and Hanger.”

Temora Aviation Museum, 1 Tom Moon Avenue, Temora. Visit aviationmuseum.com.au or call 6977 1088.

Mechanics who value their customers’ safety

Nathan Lee, owner of JAWS Automotive, says he is committed to ensuring his customers are prepared for their journey ahead.

“At JAWS we offer ACT Roadworthy Inspections, mechanical repairs, log book services, 100-point safety check, as well as NSW Pink and Blue Slip inspections for motor vehicles, motorbikes, trailers,” he says.

Previously in the hands of a family business for a decade, the name JAWS was inspired by the initials of the previous owner’s father, says Nathan, who was also the tow truck driver for the previous owner before buying the business in April 2022.

“We are a small, old-school workshop that values our customers and their vehicle concerns [and] we try to help in any way we can if people are stuck needing a mechanic [at] the last minute.”

As part of the Phillip-Woden community, Nathan says they receive a fair bit of work from Lennock Motors, which is a large dealership that helps small, owner-operated businesses by sending work their way.

“We are, I believe, the only ACT Authorised Rego inspection station that does walk-in,
on-the-spot rego inspections; all other
authorised stations only do inspections by bookings,” Nathan says. 

“We are also the preferred repairer for after-market warranties, and pride ourselves on doing a job well done.”

JAWS Automotive, 4 Salamander Circuit, Phillip. Call 6285 3455.

Christy provides a total body contour

Named as one of the top three best weight-loss centres in Canberra for the second year in a row, owner Christy Christensen says Total Body Contouring is a place to redefine silhouettes.

“We help people achieve their goals from reducing cellulite and fatty tissue, assisting with muscle growth, through to lymphatic drainage, and facials that reduce acne scars,” she says. 

Christy says Total Body Contouring is about building body confidence without surgery. The new Manuka salon, which features private treatment rooms and an extended service menu, is running a special on fat freezing with Cooltech, which Christy says requires no downtime and is surgery-free.

“Cooltech is one of the most advanced and non-surgical fat-reduction treatments available today,” she says.

 Total Body Contouring is also proud to offer a range of injectable treatments, helping clients achieve natural-looking enhancements. Whether it’s anti-wrinkle injections or dermal fillers. 

Christy says: “The experienced team tailors treatments to suit individual needs, ensuring clients feel refreshed and rejuvenated.”

Additionally, Total Body Contouring is the exclusive provider of the revolutionary Ultraformer MPT in Canberra. 

“By stimulating collagen production, the Ultraformer MPT helps achieve a more youthful appearance with minimal discomfort and no downtime.”

With a team dedicated to non-surgical beauty solutions, Total Body Contouring continues to be the go-to destination for those seeking body confidence and rejuvenation in Canberra.

Total Body Contouring, Shop 3/22 Franklin Street, Griffith. Call 6239 7347 or visit totalbodycontouring.com.au

Louise finds her true calling in helping people

Louise McMahon has been the owner of Deziner Beauty in Queanbeyan for more than 20 years.

Describing herself as a people person, she loves her community of clients and says she enjoys creating a personable and joyful atmosphere, 

while providing a variety of professional beauty services.

In her beauty salon, Louise says she has some of the latest cutting-edge technology and skincare products to make her clients look and feel good.

“My passion is providing treatments with this new technology, I’ve made sure I’ve done the research, and have the best of the best that’s out there!” she says.

Louise says Deziner Beauty has had to expand floorspace to cater for this equipment, and she welcomes new and previous clients from Queanbeyan, Canberra and beyond to come and experience the latest treatments in a relaxed setting.

One of Louise’s most popular treatments for women and men is via her LED light-therapy bed, and currently has a special introductory offer of four treatments for just $100. Deziner Beauty also offers facelifts, body contouring, teeth whitening, a skin analyser, as well as waxing, make-up and traditional beauty services.

Centrally located in Cassidy’s Arcade, Lousie says “our team will welcome you with a smile, and serve you as you enjoy one of our premium beauty experiences.”

Deziner Beauty, Shop 16/18 Cassidy’s Arcade, 72 Monaro Street, Queanbeyan. Call 6299 5792 or visit dezinerbeauty.com.au

Pirates mark Players’ anniversary

Celebrating their 60th anniversary this year, the Queanbeyan Players are returning to their roots with a presentation of The Pirates of Penzance. 

“It is exactly 50 years since Queanbeyan Players first performed this great Gilbert and Sullivan musical,” says director Alison Newhouse.

“We have an amazing cast of 40 talented performers, with Paul Sweeney as the Pirate King, Tony Falla playing the Major General, Demi Smith as Mabel and Lachlan Elderton as Frederic.”

Alison says the ensemble sound – with four and six-part harmonies – is already sounding beautiful. 

“Put this together with an incredible 16-piece orchestra and it is going to be one spectacular show for the whole family,” she says.

With the production team made entirely up of women, Alison says their “girl power” is sure to make the performance a hit. 

Working alongside are assistant director and choreographer Jodi Hammond, musical director Jen Hinton, production manager Brigid Cummins, stage manager Jill Young as well as costume and props experts Helen McIntyre and Mel McDonald. 

Allison says the EssGee version of Pirates of Penzance will be a nice homage for the 60th anniversary.

Queanbeyan Players, Pirates of Penzance. July 3-13. The Q, 253 Crawford Street, Queanbeyan. Call 6285 6290 or visit queanbeyanplayers.com

Turning away the cold with custom made fire balls

For those looking to make a statement in their outdoor entertainment area this winter, Innovative Metalworx’s custom-made fire balls can do just that, says owner Cheryl Moulden. 

Available in three different sizes, the “fire-pit alternatives” are hand drawn and hand crafted to create a bespoke product. 

“No two fire balls are the same and people can tell their own story on a sphere that lights up and warms an outdoor area,” she says. 

“Once it’s yours, you fill them up with fire wood and let them blaze!”

Widely travelled, Cheryl’s fire balls have even gone to France to a returning diplomat who wanted a representation of the bush capital on it, with artwork including Parliament House, Telstra Tower and kangaroos. 

“Another fire ball had a semi-trailer truck, dirt bikes and mountains on it for a 21st birthday present,” says Cheryl. 

While Innovative Metalworx sells pre-designed fire balls, Cheryl says they don’t charge any extra for custom designs. 

“We can also make custom-made fire pits and firewood holders,” she says. 

“Our goal is to have our clients’ ideas transformed into a reality.”

Innovative Metalworx. Unit 1/43 Aurora Avenue, Queanbeyan East. Call 6232 9207 or visit innovativemetalworx.com.au

Metal shop that can do the lot

MetalMart is a one-stop metal shop, says owner Belinda Reynolds, who, backed with experience in the construction industry, took over the business in 2019.

MetalMart is a steel and scrap icon and has been successfully trading for more than 30 years in steel retail sales and scrap metal recycling. 

“We are popular with a diverse range of steel users including farmers, steel fabricators, artists and the backyard handyman,” says Belinda.

“Whether it’s for domestic, rural or commercial applications, MetalMart has the products you need and if we don’t have what you are after we will do our best to track it down for you through our extensive range of suppliers.”

Belinda says MetalMart stocks an extensive range of brass and stainless steel products with a wide range of flat sheets in hot rolled, aluminium, zinc, steel plate perforated and stainless steel.

“Customers can come in with any idea and MetalMart can make it, too,” she says. 

Belinda says it’s always a good time to look at cleaning up the yard. 

“Don’t forget to clean up any scrap metal around your yard and we will pay cash for it!”, she says. 

MetalMart, 53 Collie Street, Fyshwick. Call 6239 2422 or visit metalmart.com.au