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city hub 14 NOVEMBER 2019
Cops strip-search under-age girls BY ALEC SMART On November 8, NSW Deputy Coroner Harriet Grahame released her findings from the inquest into six MDMA-related deaths of youths at music festivals between December 2017 and January 2019. Grahame recommended the NSW Government radically alter its drug policy, including: stopping strip-searching; ceasing the use of dogs to sniff suspects at festivals; establishing a national drug summit; and considering the decriminalisation of certain drugs. “There is a need to reframe our main priority from reducing drug use to reducing drug death,” she told the packed hearing at NSW Coroners’ Court in Lidcombe. Grahame specifically urged Police Commissioner Mick Fuller to cease the NSW Police’s punitive approach to recreational drug users and focus instead on suppliers. Grahame’s report also included her recommendation to introduce pill testing at NSW music festivals. She said, “I am in no doubt whatsoever that there is sufficient evidence to support a drug checking trial”. Grahame’s recommendation was rejected by NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian, who reprised her assertion that it gave a “green light to drug users”. Berejiklian’s stance goes against the Australian Medical Association, the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, National Alcohol and Drug Research Centre and former Federal Police Commissioner Mick Palmer, which all support the introduction of pill testing to festivals.
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practice of strip-searching young people,” she concluded, was of “grave concern”. The Deputy Coroner’s findings came directly after the police watchdog Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) held public hearings in October as part of its investigation into the allegedly illegal search of a 16-year-old girl at the 2018 Splendour in the Grass festival. A male officer, who conducted 19 strip-searches at the event, revealed to the LECC inquiry that it was standard procedure for police to stripsearch everyone that their sniffer dog indicated might be concealing drugs, even though the majority of those investigated had none on their person. The inquiry learned that 143 strip-searches were carried out, seven of which were performed on children. The number of strip-searches in NSW has increased almost 20-fold in the past 12 years, from 277 conducted in 2006, to a massive 5,483 in 2018, with an almost 50 per cent increase in strip-searches between 2014-18. Almost 300 minors, including a 10-year-old, were strip-searched by police over a two-year period between the financial years 2016-18.
The NSW Deputy Coroner recommends halting strip-searches and introducing pill testing at festivals. Satirical art: Wowser Nation
MDMA diluted with toxic substances MDMA, commonly referred to as ecstasy or molly, is a popular recreational drug that alters the mood and perceptions of its users. Typically taken as a tablet, it increases the activity of three brain chemicals, dopamine, porepinephrine and serotonin, giving users a surge in energy with heightened friendliness. However, MDMA pills are often diluted with toxic substances which can trigger heart attacks, upset the body’s ability to regulate temperature, cause liver or kidney failure, and clot blood, leading to strokes. Pill testing to determine if a drug is safe looks likely to be introduced on a trial basis in Victoria in 2020, despite opposition from Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews. The trial, which would include a mobile pilltesting facility at music festivals and a fixed-site laboratory to test drugs, would be reviewed after one year with the possibility of extension.
THAT SNEAKY RABBIT
Pill testing has been successfully trialled twice in Canberra at two consecutive Groovin The Moo festivals in April 2018 and 2019.
The wholesale practice of stripsearching young people [is] of grave concern This year, over 230 revellers submitted small scrapings of their recreational drugs for analysis. Seven samples were found to contain the potentially lethal cathinone n-ethylpentylone, a cheaper substitute for MDMA linked to a number of deaths because it can cause blood circulation problems and dangerous heart palpitations. NSW Deputy Coroner Grahame revealed that NSW police had sought to stop her investigating strip-searches. “The wholesale
3,919 strip-searches on women and girls Freedom of Information documents obtained by Redfern Legal Centre revealed that since 2016 there have been 3,919 strip-searches by NSW Police on women and girls. Young women aged 25 and under accounted for almost half the searches, while the oldest woman strip-searched was 72 years old. In only 28% of the strip-searches of women and girls was a “positive” indication by a drugsniffing dog used as a reason to undress them. The most shocking revelation was that NSW Police strip-searched 122 girls under the age of 18, including two 12-year-olds, whom they made squat so they could part their buttock cheeks and peer beneath them. Solicitor Samantha Lee, of Redfern Legal Centre, revealed that NSW Police took the Centre to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal to prevent these intrusive procedures being made public. On 6 November, NSW Police Minister David Elliot defended his force’s practice of stripsearching children. “I’ve got young children and if I thought the police felt they were at risk of doing something wrong I’d want them stripsearched,” he declared.
By Sam Mcnair
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Has Council moved Australia Day? BY ELIZA SPENCER In an historic decision, Sydney’s Inner West Council (IWC) has voted to move the annual Australia Day celebrations to January 25, the day before the existing national holiday, becoming the first NSW council to change the controversial date. On 12 November, after a heated debate within council chambers, the motion passed with a large majority, backed by Labor, Greens and several Independent councillors, and supported by IWC Mayor Darcy Byrne. The date was moved as a mark of respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait islanders, who regard January 26 – the commemoration of the arrival of Britain’s First Fleet of prisoner ships and the raising of the Union Jack in Sydney Cove – as Invasion Day. The new celebrations on January 25 at Enmore Park will be reframed as a children’s and family festival to “ensure there is no loss to the community,” said Mayor Byrne. “We are simply purporting that there is a more respectful way to conduct ourselves on that day.”
Citizenship ceremonies remain However, citizenship ceremonies will still be held on January 26, meeting the requirements set by the federal Morrison government, which many critics suggest misses the point of changing Australia Day to a new date the whole country can follow. Home affairs minister Peter Dutton threatened to strip councils of their right to hold citizenship ceremonies if they are moved from Australia Day. The retention of citizenship ceremonies means the IWC are unlikely to face the wrath of the Morrison Government. Councillor Pauline Lockie isn’t concerned about any further ramifications. “We’re still intending to hold citizenship ceremonies on January 26, so we’d be meeting the requirements,” she said. “As far as I know, they haven’t mandated holding fireworks or celebrations on this day as part of the requirements,” she added.
Inner West Council changed Australia Day to January 25, the first NSW council to do so. Photo: Michael Coghlan
Clr Lockie confirmed: “Just to clarify, the wording of the motion changed somewhat from what was on the business papers. Citizenship Ceremony will still be held on 26 Jan as noted. Celebrations will also move, and will be aimed at children/families and held “another day in summer”; so it’s still open for it to be on 25 Jan to coincide with Lunar New Year as proposed by staff, but it’s not dictated within the current wording. “Citizen of the Year awards will also move to a different date, still to be confirmed. And we’ll promote attendance at Yabun on 26 Jan (though this is technically held in City of Sydney’s LGA, not IWC, and we’re not the organisers of this event).” “I should note too that, in relation to the former Councils that comprise Inner West, only Marrickville used to have the celebrations on 26 Jan. Leichhardt and Ashfield Councils held Citizenship Ceremonies, but no celebration. Marrickville’s event was carried over to IWC on the basis that all the events held by previous Councils would continue after amalgamation.” The motion to change the date of the festivities, normally held in Enmore Park, was brought forward by Greens councillor Tom Kiat in 2018,
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but was voted down by Labor, Liberal and Independent councillors. Cr. Lockie described the previous motion’s failure as “allow[ing] ourselves to get too divided on the Labor/Greens differences on the issue.. We can come to a regulation that allows us to do a better job of respectfully recognising what 26 January means to all Australians. We owe that to our community.’ The success of IWC’s latest motion was put to the consultation of community members through an online survey and, according to Cr. Lockie, ‘the majority of people who’ve contacted me support moving our celebrations from that day.’ Cr. Kiat agreed and said, “In terms of justice and respect for First Nations people, we have a long way to go. This is a step in the right direction… It’s fitting that our Council, on Gadigal and Wangal land, be the first in NSW to commit to this change, as it was on Gadigal land that the British Penal Colony was first established.”
The Inner West became the first council in NSW to change the date after Byron backflipped The online survey cited by council however, only received 37 respondents, with 5 attending a consult with council to discuss changing the date. Independent councillor Victor Macri, who opposed the date change, raised his concerns with council regarding the low uptake of the survey for what he considers a ‘woeful’ consultation of community. “[Council] were pointed towards this online survey that had 37 responses,” he said. “At what point do you think that it was representative of a 200,000-person community? “If 37 people said they don’t like something they
shouldn’t ban it. I’m open to change but change has to come in the correct way.”
People’s Republic of the Inner West Known colloquially as ‘the People’s Republic of the Inner West,’ the traditionally left-leaning electorate is one of the safest Labor seats, held by federal opposition leader Anthony Albanese. On the state level, the seats of Newtown and Balmain are held by the only two Greens MPs in NSW. Cr. Macri, who also voted down the motion last year, disagrees that the area is truly progressive. “Is it really progressive to drive a pre-2000 car with all its emissions but put a Greens sticker or a Stop Adani sticker on the back of it and say it’s cool? I’m sorry, it’s not,” he said. Speaking of the motion, Cr. Macri said, “I don’t think it’s a good thing, it causes tension in the community. People need time to understand that it’s really the federal government that needs to change… leadership needs to come from the top.” Change does appear to be coming from below, as the IWC joins Darebin, Yarra and Moreland councils in Victoria, and Fremantle Council in Western Australia in changing the date of their Australia Day celebrations or scrapping celebrations entirely. The Inner West became the first council in New South Wales to change the date after Byron Shire backflipped on their decision after threats from Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton to strip the council of their right to conduct citizenship ceremonies. For Cr. Lockie, the decision to change the date is more than progressive signalling from the council. “It’s more than a symbolic gesture. We’re taking a tangible action to recognise that, for many in our community - both Indigenous and nonIndigenous - holding a fireworks-driven celebration on 26 January isn’t the most appropriate way to recognise this date,” she said. The changes to IWC’s Australia Day celebrations will come into effect in January 2020.
city hub 14 NOVEMBER 2019
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Big trouble in Little Bay Government backing… to push this preposterous high rise development in Little Bay. “He will get his spot rezoning for being so “helpful” by backing … a cruise terminal. Interestingly, he has also thrown his support behind a Gold Coast cruise terminal as well.” The Government is currently forging ahead with its plans and finding partners to build the terminal.
Meriton wants high-density accommodation in Little Bay, including buildings 22-storeys high. Photo: Alec Smart
Lorenzen. It is not only because of the huge and unanimous opposition within the local community, underpinned by 5,800+ online petitions, and hundreds of email and paper submissions to Council within only 5 weeks - but the proposal also has no strategic merit.” The proposal is under preliminary assessment with Randwick Council. They will consult an independent advice panel in December.
Randwick Council will knock it back but Meriton will get it accepted by the NSW government The Department of Planning, Environment and Industry will ultimately decide whether to issue a gateway determination and allow the rezone decision to go to public consultation.
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BY VERONICA ANASSIS Meriton’s plans for a massive 1900-apartment development in Little Bay may still go ahead, despite protests and council opposition. Likely to be rejected by Randwick Council, Meriton’s proposal, which includes controversial 22-storey complexes that will cast shadows on the beach, may still be approved through State Government. The site, a 135,961.6 sqm residential development at 1406-1408 Anzac Parade, was purchased by Meriton for $245 million in August 2017 from Malaysia’s TA Global. Meriton’s investment property, bound by The Coast Golf Club and Pacific Ocean to the east, Anzac Parade to the west, residential housing to the north and the Prince Henry Estate to the south, is expected is subdivided into multiple development lots. Meriton head Harry Triguboff’s track record of passing plans through state channels has residents and officials opposed to the development concerned. Member for Maroubra, Michael Daley, said Randwick Council’s decision is likely to be sidelined. “Many citizens have said ‘What Harry wants, Harry gets’ under this Liberal government,” said Mr Daley. “Council I’m sure will knock it back and they’ll just run around behind the council and do a spot rezoning with the state government.” Current rules allow developers to apply directly with the state even after being by denied local Council, through the Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel. Save Little Bay Action Group protested the rezone plan with 400 residents on October 27. Leader of Save Little Bay, Olde Lorenzen, said the community are wary that Triguboff “always wins at state level”. But he is adamant the plan has no chance of progressing. “We are 100% certain that the Meriton proposal has no merit and will not get approved,” said
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Triguboff is pushing for high-density accommodation in the area, to correlate with the Government’s bid to build a Yarra Bay Cruise terminal in nearby Botany Bay. The developer revealed his complexes will accommodate the pre and post cruise market for vacationers staying before and after their trip. “If we get cruise passengers, we will build serviced apartments,” he told The Australian. However, lobby group Save Yarra Bay, which oppose the cruise terminal, says the future of Little Bay is tied up in dubious motives. “Save Yarra Bay campaign is very supportive of the Save Little Bay Campaign because both [of] these developments have one thing in common they are both about corporate interests working with Government, to bring inappropriate, and environmentally destructive developments into a pristine area. “Harry Triguboff is backing the Government’s plans to build this expensive, destructive cruise terminal in Yarra Bay because he needs the
Sun blockers If Meriton get around a Randwick Council determination it won’t be the first time. Meriton appealed the Council’s decision in the Land and Environment court in 2009 and received approval for 450 dwellings with a five-storey maximum. In September 2019, they applied for an amendment to increase unit numbers fourfold, and extend building heights to 22-storeys. Towers at this height will block sunlight at the nearby beaches. There is no current transportation infrastructure to support the proposed new hotel and retail sites. Randwick Mayor Danny Said renounced the proposal for being “completely out of proportion” with the landscape and capacity of the area. “Little Bay has a small village feel with a range of diverse housing, including low-rise apartments up to five-storeys. Meriton’s proposal would double the population of the suburb cramming up to 5,000 more residents into a small area. Residents of Little Bay are rightfully concerned about this proposal.” According to Lorenzen there are also traffic concerns. “The site is uniquely unsuitable to accommodate the additional traffic and number of cars the development would generate,” he said. “[It is] out of place with the unique character of the coastal natural environment … and nearby historic Prince Henry site.”
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Westconnex out chopping again BY ALLISON HORE On Thursday 7 November, over 150 residents attended a meeting held by Balmain MP Jamie Parker, calling on the government and the Inner West Council to back away from a plan to fell trees in Annandale for the Whites Creek Link section of the Westconnex project. “The government is waging a war on trees and vegetation in the inner west,” Parker told the crowd. “Less trees means less shade, warmer suburbs, less oxygen and a less-livable urban environment for our community.” The Whites Creek Link project is a pedestrian and cycling link which will connect Annandale with the area, which is currently home to the Rozelle Rail Yards. The plan will replace road level pedestrian access to the foreshore and the railyards with a network of overpasses and bridges so that cars and trucks can move freely. In order to construct the White’s Creek link, which will form part of the larger system of over and underpasses, many mature trees in the area between the light rail track and Railway Parade will have to be removed, starting from December. Natural barrier This isn’t the first time inner-west residents have expressed their concern about the impact of the Westconnex on local tree cover. The removal of trees from Buruwan Park, including two mature Moreton Bay figs, also sparked a number of protests from locals, most recently in September. “In just the past two months, they have removed a huge number of trees along the City West Link and cleared almost all the vegetation at Buruwan Park - including two magnificent Moreton Bay figs,” Parker said. The parcel of trees marked for removal currently act as a natural barrier between homes in Annandale and the City West Link. Residents
take decades for a tree to reach maturity, yet it’s mature trees that Westconnex have earmarked for removal for their project. In response to community concerns about the trees being removed, Westconnex promised that at the end of the construction period, there will be a tree planting program as part of the revitalisation of the old Rozelle Rail Yards. They said that this project will deliver up to 10 hectares of new parklands to the community. The NSW Government is also committed to adding five million new trees to Sydney’s tree canopy by 2030. Through their Five Million Tree (5MT) campaign the NSW Government is encouraging individuals, councils, nongovernment organisations and community groups to plant trees in their local area. In June, Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced that $340 million would be dedicated to the “Open Spaces and Greener Sydney” project to help meet the goal. Balmain MP Jamie Parker and residents asked Westconnex not to chop trees by Rozelle Interchange. Photo: supplied
worry that with the removal of the trees they will be exposed to more noise and fumes from the traffic on this major road. Parker agrees that additional pathways for cyclists and pedestrians are needed in the area, but thinks the current plans sacrifice the area’s environment and need to be revised, not only to maintain the barrier between residential areas and the road, but also to conserve animal habitats and the climate. “While we need more cycling and pedestrian links in the inner west, they don’t need to come at the cost of hundreds of local trees,” he explained. “Most cities are growing their tree canopy to create cooler suburbs, provide habitat for local wildlife and fight the effects of climate change. But here in the inner west we’re going
backwards.” The improvements to climate afforded by trees are not minimal. According to the New South Wales Office of Environment and Heritage, for every 10 per cent increase in tree canopy cover, land surface temperatures can be reduced by 1.13 degrees Celsius.
We need more cycling and pedestrian links, but not at the cost of hundreds of trees Over a year just one mature tree is capable of absorbing 3,400 litres of stormwater and filtering 27kgs of pollutants from the air. It can
Unclear proposals But some locals question why the decision to remove the trees along Railway Parade was not made clear to residents in the proposals for the project. The modification report for the Rozelle Interchange released in August showed that an overpass would be located in the area, but the impact the design of this overpass would have on the tree canopy was not explicitly stated. “We understand that there is already approval to remove all these trees, so we are calling on the government and the Inner West Council to urgently reconsider the design of this project to allow this vital green barrier to be preserved,” Parker said. Parker is encouraging residents who are worried about the removal of trees in the area to contact the Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance, to express their concern.
Metro tree-felling fallout BY VANESSA LIM An announcement that 10 mature trees on Smidmore Street in Marrickville, next to the construction site for the expansion of the Metro Shopping Centre, will be chopped down, has caused anger. The Metro shopping mall expansion, which was approved by the NSW Planning and Assessment Commission (PAC) in 2012, first stated that the trees would be kept during the construction works. However, the announcement they’ll now be felled has provoked a reaction among residents and shoppers concerned about the environmental impacts. A spokesperson from Inner West Council Council (IWC), which replaced Marrickville Council during forced amalgamations with neighbouring councils in 2016, said: “The former Marrickville Council always vigorously opposed the proposed expansion of Marrickville Metro shopping centre. Council raised concerns when the Metro expansion was first proposed in regards to these trees, and stated the development needed to be set back to protect them.”
would be so compromised by the development that they would no longer be viable.” The approval has now been amended to state the trees must be removed and replaced with 20 new trees. The IWC has advocated for sustainable planting methods that will protect trees over time. Independent Councillor Pauline Lockie, who raised community concerns on the Metro expansion in the original Marrickville Council, said: “It’s good that the 10 trees will be replaced with 20 trees. However, the 10 trees that are being destroyed are mature trees that would otherwise have been healthy for decades. Replacement trees will take many years to grow to the same height and canopy, and provide the same benefits as the trees we’re losing.” The former Marrickville Council agreed that this development would affect locals. “Council believed this was an overdevelopment that would jeopardise local main street shopping strips, adversely affect residents and cause traffic problems in the area surrounding the Metro,” said an IWC spokesperson.
Arborist report Despite these environmental concerns, AMP Capital, the owner of the Metro, produced an arborist report stating that the development could proceed as they had planned whilst retaining the trees, although this was disputed by the former council, who were primarily concerned that the trees’ root systems and branches would be irreparably damaged by heavy machinery and digging. “The Department of Planning’s 2012 approval came with a condition that the 10 trees along Smidmore Street be retained,” said a spokesperson from IWC. Despite the arborist report stating that the trees could be maintained, the expansion process proved that the trees root system would be breached. “A Modification application (75w) was lodged in late 2017. This was when Council sought to have the condition to retain the trees amended, as it was clear then that the root systems and canopy of these trees
Concerns The tree felling has reprised concerns about the NSW State Government taking power away from local councils to act as arbitrator on local issues. Clr Lockie has expressed concern that developments such as the Metro expansion often affect locals directly but have little impact on the NSW State Government.
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The 10 trees being destroyed are mature trees that would otherwise have been healthy for decades “It’s a massive issue that the NSW planning process allows developers to go over the heads of Councils and get their proposals approved by the state government instead,” said Clr Lockie. “It’s a process that’s designed to shut down legitimate local concerns, and it leads to poorer outcomes for communities.
Smidmore Street, Marrickville, where 10 mature trees are being felled for the Metro expansion. Photo: Alec Smart
“This is an important point because the majority of people I speak to aren’t anti-development. We all need places to live, shop and work. But residents do want a real say in what gets built in their neighbourhoods, and to make sure new developments genuinely benefit the community. These should be pretty basic rights. But they get swept away by a planning process that locks out locals. “Generally speaking, I believe Councils push a lot harder than the state government for the concerns of local residents and experts to be taken seriously, and for modifications to be made to developments to accommodate these concerns,” said Clr Lockie. “We live and work within the community, so we have the local connections and knowledge to be able to do this effectively. And most importantly, we’re answerable to our communities in ways that state government bureaucrats and Ministers are not.”
While Amp Capital is continuing their construction program, they have made an effort to be proactive with the local community over the tree removal issue. “In fairness to the Marrickville Metro, I think their [AMP] management is making efforts to accommodate local concerns as the construction has proceeded,” said Clr Lockie, “as I know their team has been liaising with both Council staff and members of the community during works. But it would be great to see that collaborative approach taken from the start, so we can avoid issues like the one we’re seeing now with the loss of these trees,” she added. “Council staff have informed me that AMP Capital is conducting fauna assessments on the trees, which is good. I know this request has been put to AMP Capital by community members as well, so I appreciate that they’re taking steps to try and address the situation.”
Opinion
Double Bay Festival celebrates 9 years BY ANDREW WOODHOUSE The vivacious Double Bay Street Festival is the largest free street festival in Sydney. Now celebrating its ninth year, the event was enjoyed by over 80,000 people last Sunday. Children, families and people of all ages, shapes and types and cultures enjoyed a chance to flanneur their way around Double Bay’s open streets, adding to the strength, vibrancy, and diversity of the local community. Katherine O’Regan is a former Deputy Mayor, Woollahra Council, and Chair of the Sydney East Chamber of Commerce and has been on its board for five years. Her Chamber organised the event. She said “The Street Festival is a wonderful day that brings both business and the community together. It is really great to see everyone come out and enjoy the atmosphere and activities. There is nothing like it in Sydney. It’s such a great success because of the variety of things to do and see which attracts all ages. It offered 400 stalls, Double Bay Festival creates more movement and colour than thought possible. Photo: Andrew Woodhouse children’s activities, great music and places to simply hang out.” From popcorn to Maseratis There were over 400 stalls showcasing leading She was not wrong. The joie de vivre was In other stalls in other streets I could buy a new designers and food suppliers, independent palpable. For children is was a fantasy land: a place Maserati or a white-as-Swedish-snow Volvo, enjoy ateliers and artists, both local and from other parts to ride a two-hump camel, slide down a four-storey unlimited free popcorn for signing a pledge to of this wide brown land. shiny, pink, slippery slope, pet Lola the Llama, reduce my household water now that Sydney has play in coloured balls, throw a ball into the moving only 40 % of its water reserves left and is officially There seemed no end to the mouth of a clown, dance on the mega-trampoline, in drought. cornucopia of delights to see, have their face painted or risk everything on Or just laze around listening to the delightfully the BIG SWING, a giant mechanical pendulum mellifluous voice of Jo Elms, who teaches at St sniff, try, taste and test driven by screams of delight that never seemed Andrew’s Cathedral School. Her CDs are available to end. Parents watched on amazed. Stephen, at: wwwjoelms.com There seemed no end to the cornucopia of whose child was eight, said “he just loves it. It’s the I scoffed a scone or two (or three), hand-made delights to see, sniff, try, taste and test. Arafat, thrill. The festival is a success because the rides by Nancye and Lisa, known as The Scone Queens, Manager, Parisi’s Café observed “It’s great seeing are interactive”, as the Big Swing operator yelled so light and fluffy they almost floated off the plate everyone enjoying a great time with friends, family rhetorically, “Do you want more?” “Yes!” they all like cumulo nimbus clouds. Their natural homeand partners.” squealed. “Yes, what?“ came the question. “Yes made jam was uber rich. Yet only a gold coin I also admired jewelled Christmas cards, sun PLEASE” came the reply, part of a group lesson in donation was needed, surely making it the best hats and watching free puppy health, dental long-lost playground etiquette. value around town in decades. and diet checks. Samantha, from Vet HQ said
Cats and kittens available for adoption
“I really like the festival for bringing everyone in the neighbourhood together.” I gawped at snap-frozen, Moroccan lamb pet food dinners, the French bijoux stall, superb laser-cut origami gift cards, hemp backpacks, succulent plants, Provençale-painted pottery and terra cotta egg cups which, apparently, also double as shot glasses for the under 25s! 80,000 attendees can’t be wrong The very clever hand-made baskets and bowls fashioned from palm frons, beautiful botanical prints from the 16th to 19th centuries and delicious, aromatic, semolina and walnut biscuits made according to an ancient Bedouin recipe were on hand, alongside the Yum Thai fresh juice bar with its famous watermelon smoothies using authentic, super-refreshing Thai recipes. Luckily, gym memberships and a new weight loss concept freezing then dispelling fat cells were also on offer nearby! Even the Godly local churches had their stalls advertising a choral concert at St Mark’s Darling Point, for example, on Sunday 24th October at 2:00 pm performing Schubert’s G-major Mass with soloists. See www.stmarksdp.org The Save Rushcutters Bay Park and Yarranabbe Park group were led by the perspicacious Charlotte Feldman. Their green grass stall was bedecked with beautiful photos of our cherished but threatened open space parks. 597 people signed petitions in just a few hours calling for them to be state heritage-listed for future generations. ”Our open spaces must be protected,” Ms Feldman said. “Recreation for the young is essential and should be encouraged but not at the cost of parks where people exercise and find peace away from their concrete apartment blocks.” So yes, I’ll be back next year, along with 80,000 others.
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE THE EXISTING MOBILE PHONE TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES IN SYDNEY Optus plans to upgrade the telecommunications services in Sydney with the introduction of new equipment to improve coverage in these areas. The upgrade of the existing telecommunications facility located at Hotel IBIS, 384 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 involves: • The replacement of existing RRUs with the installation of new Remote Radio Units (RRUs) to be attached to the existing mounting poles at a height of 49.15m; • Associated and necessary ancillary works to ensure the proper functioning of the telecommunications facility including cabling, earthing, signage, safe access, electrical works.
All our cats and kittens have been desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, flea-and-worm treated and health-checked by a vet. Our adoption fees are $150 or $250 for a bonded pair plus applicable lifetime registration fee
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The proposed works are defined as “Low-impact Facilities” in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 and “maintenance activity” as defined in Schedule 3 of the Telecommunications Act 1997. The proposed infrastructure complies with the ACMA EMR regulatory arrangements. Further information can be obtained from Emma Lachlan on (02) 9363 3815 or email to info@commplan.com.au or from www.rfnsa.com.au/2000174. Written submissions on the proposal should be addressed to Optus C/- CommPlan Pty Ltd, PO Box 267, Edgecliff NSW 2027 and received by 29 November 2019.
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FEATURE
Sydney’s Sizzling Summer As Sydney sizzles under the sun the city’s entertainment calendar also begins to heat up. Luckily for our readers, we’ve done the hard work for you. Check out our comprehensive list of all the top events, shows, art exhibitions, concerts and films to see during the coming summer season. STAGE Sylvia Ballet has a new heroine – and she can rescue herself. Until Nov 23. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $37-$305+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com The Nutcracker Nov 30-Dec 18. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $37-$375+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com Storytime Ballet: The Nutcracker The Australian Ballet brings the world’s most famous ballet to life on stage in a brand new production of The Nutcracker created especially for children aged 3 and up. Dec 18-Jan 4. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $44-$56+b.f. Tickets & Info: www. sydneyoperahouse.com
The Chasers War On 2019 Dec 5. Enmore Theatre, 118-132 Enmore Rd, Newtown. $35-$74.95+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.enmoretheatre.com.au
Courtney Act’s Fluid Feb 21-28. Eternity Playhouse, 39 Burton St, Darlinghurst. $45.50-$95+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.darlinghursttheatre.com
Artisans Market Glebe Dec 14. Dr H J Foley Rest Park, Cnr Glebe Point Rd & Bridge Rd. Info: www. artisansmarketglebe.org.au
Hannah Gadsby - Douglas Dec 17-21. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $84.90+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
Jason Alexander The Master Of His Domain Feb 22. State Theatre, 49 Market Street, Sydney. $99-$119+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.statetheatre.com.au
MindBodySpirit Festival Mar 12-15. ICC Sydney, 14 Darling Dr, Sydney. Info: www.mbsfestival.com.au
Sport For Jove’s Summer Season • Romeo & Juliet Dec 21-30. Bella Vista Farm. Cnr Norwest Blvd & Elizabeth MacArthur Dr, Bella Vista. Jan 17-26. Leura Everglades. 37 Everglades Ave, Leura. • Twelfth Night Jan 11-26. Leura Everglades. 37 Everglades Ave, Leura Tickets $32-$42+b.f. available at www. sportforjove.com.au Cirque Stratosphere Dec 24-29. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $39-$119+b.f. Tickets & Info: www. sydneyoperahouse.com Shrek The Musical Jan 1-31. Sydney Lyric Theatre, 55 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont. $49-$145+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.sydneylyric.com.au Wind In The Willows Jan 4-26. Royal Botanic Gardens, Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney. $22-$30+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au Sydney Festival Jan 8-26. Various Venues & Prices. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyfestival.org.au Penn & Teller Jan 11-19. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $59-$159+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com Hayes Theatre - The Life Of Us Jan 16-Feb 9. 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point. $52-$59+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.hayestheatre.com.au
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city hub 14 NOVEMBER 2019
Photo: Raegan Glazner
Louis Theroux Jan 17. State Theatre, 49 Market St, Sydney. $99-$299+b.f.Tickets & Info: www. statetheatre.com.au
Bell Shakespeare - Hamlet Feb 29-Apr 4. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $37.50-$97.50+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com
SCENE Japan Supernatural Until Mar 8. Art Gallery Of New South Wales, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney. $12-$25+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au Linear Nov 15-Jun 30. Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris St, Ultimo. $8-$15+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.maas.museum Jamaican Food & Music Festival Nov 16. Greenwood Hotel, 36 Blue St, North Sydney. $30-$50+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.jmff.com.au Greatest Hits: Michael Hutchence Nov 21-Jan 11. Blender Gallery, 16 Elizabeth St, Paddington. FREE. Info: www.cuffarohits.com Etsy Made Local Market Nov 23.Town Hall, 483 George St, Sydney. Gold Coin Entry. Info: www.sydneymade. wordpress.com
SOUNDS Harbourlife Nov 16. Fleet Steps, Mrs Macquaries Point. Tickets & Info: www.fuzzy.com.au SoundSpheres: A Mini-Festival Of Music Nov 19. UNSW, Io Myers Studio, Esme Timbery Creative Practice Lab, D8. $10-$20+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.arts.unsw.edu.au Kiss Nov 26. Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park. $99.90-$332.05+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.kissonline.com Festival X Nov 30. Sydney Showground, 1 Showground Rd, Sydney Olympic Park. $159.95$384.19+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.festivalx.com.au Sydney Gay & Lesbian Choir Dec 1. Riverside Theatres, Cnr Market &, Church St, Parramatta. $23-$39+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.riversideparramatta.com.au Subsonic Dec 6-8. Riverwood Downs Mountain Valley Resort, 311 Monkerai Rd, Monkerai. $340+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.subsonicmusic.com. au Good Things Festival Dec 7. Centennial Park. $179.95+b.f.Tickets & Info: www. goodthingsfestival.com. au
Beer Fest Nov 30-Dec 1. Centennial Park. $16.71-$52.48+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydney.beerfestivals.com.au Christmas Meet The Makers Marketplace Dec 14. Hypmotive Hub, 155 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville. Info: www.hypmotive.com
Jason Alexander
Liam Gallagher Dec 9. Enmore Theatre, 118-132 Enmore Rd, Newtown. $129.90$169.90+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.enmoretheatre.com.au
FEATURE
Michael Bublé
Jojo Siwa Jan 13-14. ICC Sydney, 14 Darling Dr, Sydney. $54.90-$249+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.firststatesupertheatre.com.au Tamworth Country Music Festival Jan 17-26.Tamworth - Various Venues & Prices.Tickets & Info: www.tcmf.com.au Sean Paul & Shaggy Jan 31. Hordern Pavilion, 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park. $110.95+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.playbillvenues.com.au Billy Idol Feb 1. Hordern Pavilion, 1 Driver Ave, Moore Park. $105.35+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.playbillvenues.com.au
David Campbell & The Symphony Orchestra - Christmas At The Coliseum Dec 12-13. Sydney Coliseum Theatre, 55 Sherbrooke St, Rooty Hill. $79-$249+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneycoliseum.com.au Paul Kelly Dec 14.The Domain, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney. $99.90-$169.90+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.paulkelly.com.au John Butler Dec 20. Sydney Coliseum Theatre, 55 Sherbrooke St, Rooty Hill. $59,90-89.90+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneycoliseum.com.au Elton John Dec 21 & 23 - Jan 7, 9 & 14. Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park. $149-$299+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.qudosbankarena.com.au Lost Paradise Dec 28-Jan 1. Glenworth Valley. $389+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.lostparadise.com.au NYE In The Park Featuring Sneaky Sound System (pictured left, above). Dec 31. Victoria Park, Parramatta Rd, Broadway. $85.89-$807.91+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.nyeinthepark.com
St Jerome’s Laneway Festival Feb 2.The Domain, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney. $179.94-$190.14+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.lanewayfestival.com Michael Bublé Feb 7-8. Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park. $87.80-953.90+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.michaelbuble.com Alice Cooper Feb 15. Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park. $132.30$173.05+b.f.Tickets & Info: www. qudosbankarena.com.au Queen & Adam Lambert Feb 15. ANZ Stadium, Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park. $104.30+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.anzstadium.com.au Days Like This Mar 7. Victoria Park, Parramatta Rd, Broadway. $149-$189+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.dayslikethisfestival.com.au
FOMO. Photo: Jordan Munns
Iron Maiden May 7. Qudos Bank Arena, 19 Edwin Flack Ave, Sydney Olympic Park. $95-$175+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.qudosbankarena.com.au
SCREEN Openair Cinemas Pyrmont Until Dec 8. Metcalfe Park, Darling Island Rd, Pyrmont. $20-$42+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.openaircinemas.com.au Japanese Film Festival Until Nov 24. Event Cinemas George St. $16.50-$75+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.japanesefilmfestival.net
Star Wars: Episode IX - Dec 19 Frozen 2 - Dec 26 Jumanji:The Next Level - Dec 26 Studio Ghibli Summer Festival Jan 11-Feb 8. Art Gallery Of NSW, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney. $10-$12+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au Bad Boys For Life - Jan 16 Queer Screen’s 27th Mardi Gras Film Festival Feb 13-27. Various Location & Prices. Tickets & Info: www.queerscreen.org.au
Kiss. Photo: Jen Rosenstein Rico Nasty - appearing at FOMO. Photo: Mario Kristian
Field Day Jan 1.The Domain, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney. $170-$250+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.fieldday.sydney
Client Liason - appearing at NYE In The Park
FOMO Festival Jan 11. Parramatta Park, Cnr Pitt St &, Macquarie St, Parramatta. $139$199+b.f.Tickets & Info: www. fomofestival.com.au/sydney
Ultra Australia Mar 7. Parramatta Park, Cnr Pitt St &, Macquarie St, Parramatta. $160-$300+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.ultraaustralia.com 4ESydney Mar 21-Apr 4. Various Bankstown Venues & Prices.Tickets & Info: www.4esydney.com Download Mar 21. Parramatta Park, Cnr Pitt St &, Macquarie St, Parramatta. $194.93-$384.56+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.downloadfestival.com.au Bluesfest Apr 9-13.Tyagarah Nature Reserve, Tyagarah. $53.01-$639.23+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.bluesfest.com.au city hub 14 NOVEMBER 2019
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Packer & Sons They’ve dominated Australia’s media for generations. They’re rich. They’re powerful. But what goes on behind the scenes? Renowned Australian writer Tommy Murphy was driven to discover and explore the backstage lives of the Packer family and uncover the myth of the Packer dynasty. This November, Murphy’s newest play Packer & Sons will open for its inaugural season at Belvoir St Theatre. Supported by the Australian Writers’ Guild’s David Williamson Prize, the piece boasts a stellar cast featuring John Howard, Nick Bartlett, John Gaden and a host of other Australian actors.
and how a crown is passed from King to Prince. And it’s about those moments of contest between brother and brother or father and son.” Murphy and the cast will be throwing audiences a curveball and hope Packer & Sons uncovers corners of the Packer dynasty that until this point have remained unseen. “We want to confound expectations. If you think you know exactly who these figures are, we want to surprise you.” (MB) Nov 16-Dec 22. Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir Street, Surry Hills. $30-$92+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.belvoir.com.au
I’m With Her
Photo: Robert Catto
Now You See Them, Soon You Won’t
Murphy spoke about the show saying, “Packer & Sons depicts the Packers across half a century, over three generations, to examine not only how they exercise their power in business but also over each other.” Regarding the research behind the play, Murphy said: “I spoke to people who had worked closely with the Packers. I delved into the trove of historical material. I read all I could. But a play about figures as fascinating as these needs a focus.” “From the outset for Packer & Sons that focus has been about the patriarchy. It is a story about fathers and sons
Steve Martin and Martin Short first met on the set of Three Amigos (1986), where they discovered a mutual delight in taunting each other. They became firm friends and 30 years and many taunts later, they decided to take their banter on tour in a stage show called A Very Stupid Conversation. The success of that tour prompted a second one: An Evening You Will Forget For The Rest Of Your Life, which was critically acclaimed, chronically sold out, and filmed for a Netflix special garnering four Emmy nominations. Now they are touring the third iteration of the show, which has lots of new and improved features while still retaining all the elements that have proved popular with audiences. What’s more, Now You See Them, Soon You Won’t will, for the first time, include Australia on its tour itinerary.
Martin and Short have each enjoyed successful careers in comedy - on film, TV, and in stand-up. Both are also accomplished in their respective fields of music: Martin as a banjo player/composer who has released several award-winning albums; Short as an award-winning musical theatre performer. Joined on tour by Martin’s bluegrass band, The Steep Canyon Rangers, both Martin and Short will showcase their individual musical prowess. The highly entertaining show will include career anecdotes, personal stories, lots of mock spite-filled banter, and good old-fashioned variety. (RB) Nov 17. First State Super Theatre, ICC, 14 Darling Drive, Darling Harbour. $83.95+$192.45+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.abpresents.com.au
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STAGE SCENE Sounds SCREEN
Directed by Victoria Midwinter Pitt, I’m With Her presents stories about nine notable Australian women from their 20s to their 90s, including Dr Anne Aly (counter-terrorism expert and Labor MP), Dr Marion Blackwell (environmental scientist), Pam Burridge (world champion surfer), the Hon. Julia Gillard (Australia’s first female prime minister), Prof. Marcia Langton AM (Foundation Chair of Australian Indigenous Studies, University of Melbourne). Pitt says that “Like millions of women, I found myself really turned inside out by the #MeToo movement and the stories that we all share. But here’s the thing, we have always resisted it, opposed it, and even engaged in counter-attack.” Pitt says she engaged in “long, long hours talking to each other, thinking about our conversations and then talking some more.” The women were
also “good partners” in the final script. Pitt thinks, “Women should be running the joint. And it’s ridiculous how that statement is going to sound like I’m being outrageous, but the thought is not far-fetched given where, not just Australia, but the world, is heading right now.” She wants the audience to get “a fresh and startling take on themselves. I want the audience to see how brave and smart they are every day, and to leave the theatre feeling properly dangerous.” Did she enjoy producing the show? “I loved it,” she said. “It’s been one of the most inspiring and satisfying projects of my whole career. And my God it’s been fun – these women have the best sense of humour.” (ID) Until Dec 1. Eternity Playhouse, 39 Burton St, Darlinghurst. $46-$59+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.darlinghursttheatre.com
Arts Editor: Jamie Apps For more A&E stories go to cityhubsydney.com.au and don’t forget to join the conversation on Twitter at @AltMediaSydney
Art Attack Art Attack thought Cirque du Soliel’s latest show, Kurios, was one of the indefatigable operation’s best; it seemed to depend on subtlety, not flash. There were the things you’d expect—amazing acrobats and clowns from around the world, and then a nut who somehow balanced himself on several stacks of rolling tubes—and those you didn’t, like greatest goddamn yo-yo manipulator we’ve ever seen. The world of Kurios is a strange one, taking place at some point between the wars, perhaps—when dashing pilots flew two-seater planes—with some steampunk, sciencefiction and alluring wafts of ineffable decadence layered in as well, courtesy of the Asianflecked techno jazz as a musical background. . Kurios has been extended through Dec. 15. It’s at the Entertainment Quarter in Moore Park. Tickets & Info: www.cirquedusoleil.com In similar vein to Kurios an enthralling show from China is set to astound audiences at the State Theatre next week. Tales Of 12 Cheese Zodiac brings a cast of 50 dancers from the China Oriental Performing Arts Group to explore the Chinese zodiac though dance. “The 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac represent the most important and symbolic part of traditional Chinese culture” says Shen Chen, Director and choreographer. “I would like to show the circle of life, the circle of the four seasons and the circle of nature through dance and music.” Divided into four acts, the story follows the characteristics of 12 important historical periods of China, exhibiting every zodiac animal’s character traits from The Ox pasturing in the Wild to The Dragon returning to the Origin. Nov 21. State Theatre, 49 Market St, Sydney. $58-$128+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.statetheatre.com.au
Contributors: Irina Dunn, Mark Morellini, Rita Bratovich, Madison Behringer, Allison Hore, Renee Lou Dallow.
SUNDAY 1 DECEMBER
WORLD AIDS DAY 2019 Celebrate World AIDS Day 2019 with Positive Life NSW through the voices of people living with HIV in NSW
10am for a 10.30 start The Chinese Garden of Friendship Pier St, Darling Habour (south end) Light refreshments served. RSVP Essential
RSVP: 02 9206 2177 or 1800 245 677 (freecall) or contact@positivelife.org.au
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ready to Create some Hubbub? send resume and cover letter to Publisher lawrence Gibbons lawrence@altmedia.net.au city hub 14 NOVEMBER 2019
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THE NAKED CITY
SMELLS LIKE AN OLD CARDIGAN
With Coffin Ed It’s no secret that the kind of ‘fine’ art that is traded through auction houses like Sotheby’s and Christie’s is often viewed as an investment opportunity rather than a recognition of the work’s intrinsic value. Million-dollar paintings often end up in bank vaults and may never see the light of day, let alone an appreciative viewer, until they are traded again years later. Secondary to the world of renaissance masters and Banksy’s that sell for $18 million is the somewhat insane market in celebrity and historical memorabilia. Whether the auctioned items, which range from rock guitars, through movie props and costumes, to personal clothing, are acquired by cashedup fans or cunning investors is not entirely clear. However, it’s the grossly inflated prices paid for some pieces that suggest it’s only the ultra-wealthy that indulge in what is often viewed as a somewhat absurd scavenger hunt. Take the recent sale of Kurt Cobain’s rather motley olive green acrylic and mohair cardigan which sold at auction for $500,000. It was the same cardigan he wore on the legendary MTV Unplugged session, way back in 1994 and it would be interesting to sight its provenance over the past 25 years. Given that a sweater owned by the Nirvana frontman also sold for some $75,000, surely the hunt is now on for any item of clothing that once graced his body – socks, underpants and even a pungent pair of old sneakers included. Fortunately, the current obsession with celebrity memorabilia does not include actual body parts apart from the odd lock hair or a
collection of nail clippings. This, of course, was not always the case and perhaps the most celebrated ‘dismemberorabilia’ of the past two centuries is that of Napoleon’s penis. The rather modestly sized appendage was supposedly removed during his autopsy and given to Abbé Anges Paul Vignali, the priest who read the famous leader his last rites. It was then sold to an American rare books dealer and for a time exhibited at the Museum of French Art in New York. (Oh yes, the
queues were around the block!) In more recent years it was acquired by the Lattimer Family of New Jersey, after it was bought at auction in Paris for $3000. Now a prized family relic, its somewhat mythical journey is detailed in Tony Perrottet’s book Napoleon’s Privates, in which he notes that at one stage of its travels: “It was in a little leather presentation box, and it had been fried out in the air. It hadn’t been put in the formaldehyde, so it was rather the worse for wear, a bit like beef jerky.”
Whether it will ever surface on eBay or at a Sotheby’s auction in the future remains to be seen. Whilst such a sale might well be considered morbid or in bad taste let’s not forget there is a still a billion-dollar illegal trade in body parts from kidneys harvested in the Philippines to all manner of organs still traded out of Chinese prisons. Maybe in some future Blade Runner-style world, the rich will be able to bid for a new liver or set of lungs at an exclusive London or New York auction. Meanwhile, on the 30th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, the Sydney Morning Herald reported last week that a slab of the infamous barrier had turned up in a warehouse in Blacktown. It’s one of a number of ‘Wall’ souvenirs that have found their way to Australia, including a display outside the Harmonie German Club in Canberra. Smaller hand-sized pieces have been floating around the country for years although the provenance is nearly always in question. For the average person, unable to compete with the high-flying bidders at memorabilia auctions, the best you can hope for is that rare occurrence when something of potential value falls randomly into your hands. There’s an extremely rare chance you might spot a freshly stencilled Banksy on a backstreet wall and with the help of friends make off with a whole pile of bricks. Surely Kurt Cobain had more than one cardigan and a trawl through US thrift shops might well uncover another – take a DNA scraping and send it off to Ancestry.com. And finally next time you are in Berlin, grab any old bit of concrete, take a selfie outside what remains of the Wall and you instantly have a saleable souvenir.
Japan Supernatural
Art Attack If the views and booze at the Opera Bar isn’t enough, the venue’s announced $1 oysters during happy hour for the month of November. This crazy deal is available 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays through the rest of the month. The Opera Bar is on east Circular Quay, just south of the Opera House.
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Japanese art has a special ability to capture the shadow realm and bring the spirit world to life. As part of the special exhibition ghosts, goblins and mischievous shapeshifters are inhabiting the Art Gallery of NSW thanks to the Japan Supernatural exhibition. Centred on a monumental installation of painting and sculpture by Takashi Murakami, the exhibition features
over 180 wildly imaginative works by some of the greatest Japanese artists of the past and present. Japan Supernatural sees the countries folklore brought to life in magnificent paintings, large-scale installations, miniature carvings and humorous illustrations, and explore the vibrant ukiyo-e woodblock prints that define the tradition of the supernatural in Japanese art.
The exhibition program doesn’t simply focus on traditional artistic pursuits though. Visitors will also be able to experience an otherworldly offering of artist talks, live music, physical theatre, workshops and more. Until Mar 8. Art Gallery of New South Wales, Art Gallery Rd, Sydney. $12-$25+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au
By Jamie Apps When All Our Exes Live In Texas singer Georgia Mooney first envisioned the Supergroup concept it was meant to be a short-lived show. Originally debuting in April as part of an Artist In Residence program at Giant Dwarf Theatre, the Supergroup saw a range of guests take to the stage together and combine their talents. However, the show quickly evolved into a much more conversational experience, which Mooney actually enjoyed and has further developed for this upcoming run of shows. When speaking about how the show has evolved Mooney said, “It’s become more or less half chatting and half concert… It’s almost like a ‘late show’ style where I ask everyone questions about their creative process, their challenges with songwriting and their experiences as musicians. It’s quite an insightful and intimate experience.” With the show moving more in this conversational direction Mooney has had to refine how she approaches each event. “For this run, I’m really thinking a little bit more about what specifically I can ask each individual. I’m going back into each of their careers so that we can all glean
Supergroup some interesting things that we can then put into our own songwriting.” Bearing this in mind though Mooney was quick to dispel the idea that this is a show purely for songwriters. “It’s definitely not specifically aimed at songwriters. It’s really just about people who love songs and stories, which I think is most people. You might learn something about creativity that will interest you. Or you could just purely listen and enjoy the show.” As the show has gone on Mooney has also come to realise that the artists are enjoying this opportunity to speak and play with each Georgia Mooney
The Report
In the years following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, American citizens were in a fixed state of anxiety, suspicion and anger. There was a lot of pressure on the government to find and punish the perpetrators and ensure it would never happen again. This volatile atmosphere allowed two ex-military men without relevant qualifications to convince the CIA to use their EIT (Enhanced Interrogation Techniques) - otherwise known as torture. This factual film follows senate staffer, Daniel Jones (Adam Driver) through his arduous six years of research and compiling to produce a damning expose on the ineffective and atrocious techniques. Driver is convincingly tenacious as Jones without overdoing the indignant hero thing. Annette Bening blends gravitas with political smarts in her portrayal of Senator Dianne Feinstein. Maura Tierney is eerily cold as Bernadette, a CIA agent who indifferently observes the torture. It’s mostly a dialogue-driven story with some backfill scenes of torture, yet it is well crafted and totally absorbing. (RB) WWW1/2
other just as much as the audiences. “It feels like a big catch-up session, which is really nice,” said Mooney as she reflected on the first run of Supergroup events. “In many cases, people were already fans of one another but hadn’t played together before. So there was some genuine fanning out happening. You could really feel the emotions as the artists performed together and spoke about the impact they’d each had on one another. Tim Rogers even said it inspired him to return home and write songs.”
Ahead of this upcoming run of shows, Mooney has continued to rely on her instincts to choose artists she believes would be interesting to see perform together. A process which she feels “a bit selfish” about because “at the end of this series I’ll have gotten to play with 24 of my favourite songwriters and gotten deep inside their songs. I’m learning so much about writing and constantly being inspired by all of them.” However, it is also a process which has allowed for a very diverse cast of characters to come together. In November Mooney will bring together Bob Evans, Sally Seltmann and Lisa Mitchell. Then in December Supergroup will feature a rocking lineup of Davey Lane (You Am I), Olympia and Phil Jamieson (Grinspoon). “It’s not strictly a pop, folk, hip-hop or rock concert. We’ve got all different artists coming together which allows for the audience to be really diverse, so they’re probably going to hear someone they’ve never heard before,” said Mooney excitedly in closing. Nov 24 & Dec 21. The Giant Dwarf, 199 Cleveland St, Redfern. $35+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.giantdwarf.com.au
Fenn Wilson Ghost Heroin
Fenn Wilson has released his first fulllength album Ghost Heroin, which is a musical exposition of the journey from darkness to catharsis. The Melbourne based musician had already developed a reputation for himself as an emotionally raw and rhythmically talented artist through his EP Tales Of The Black Dog, which showcased his guitar skills. But, Ghost Heroin will show off his strong vocals more. Specifically, Wilson’s single Eye On You is a wonderful blend of the singer’s soulful voice and background strings. Other highlights from the album include the haunting tune of the album’s title song Ghost Heroin and the gentle, melancholy musical accompaniment found in the track Mirrors. (EE) WWWW1/2
Japanese Film Festival films very often at all. It’s about coming to terms with modern families and how sexual identity can change over time.” Could audiences be swayed to visit Japan upon attending screenings at this festival? “Yes definitely, because we program films which offer different perspectives on Japanese culture and some of the films vary from explicit modern daily life interactions to films which are specific to cultural practices.” (MMo)
HOT PICKS
Ride Your Wave
The 23rd Japanese Film Festival arrives in Sydney with a program of 29 feature films and one documentary which is certain to generate much interest amongst the discerning movie-going public. Japanese cinema has progressively gained more attention in recent years, especially since the Cannes award-winning film Shoplifters garnered global prominence. “Most of the western world only know Japanese cinema through the animated features and it’s becoming much more popular worldwide, but it is still quite small and niche in that sense,” explained festival
programmer Susan Bui. Japan is the world leader in animated film production and two animated features are included in the program this year. “Ride Your Wave is one of the animated films screening and it’s a beautiful romantic film about a girl who moves to the ocean, falls in love and runs into some mishaps.” Audiences who enjoy dramedies shouldn’t miss My Father, The Bride, the story of a father who comes to terms with the death of his wife and starts to dress up in her clothing. He decides to marry a man. “This storyline is not seen in Japanese
SIBLINGS OF THE CAPE – A dark film about an intellectually disabled woman who is cared for by her disabled brother and they struggle to make ends meet. Q&A follows the screening with director Shinzo Katayama. THE LEGEND OF THE STARDUST BROTHERS – A remastered 1985 classic about two wannabe rock stars who join forces and become a successful rock band. Reminiscent of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. TOWER OF THE SUN – A documentary that explores the socially and politically engaged philosophy of Japan’s Picasso, Taro Okamoto a prolific avant-garde artist.
Nov 14–24. Event Cinemas George St. $16.50-$75+b.f.Tickets & Info: www.japanesefilmfestival.net
Art Attack Live Baby Live is a concert film of INXS’s sold out gig at London’s Wembley Stadium on July 13, 1991. More than 73,000 fans saw the band, at the height of their fame, that night. The concert film was directed by David Mallet, one of the most successful video directors of the era— among other things, he had put together most of David Bowie and Queen’s most popular clips (including Let’s Dance, Radio Gaga, and Under Pressure) and also more adventurous stuff like Peter Gabriel’s Games Without Frontiers. Anyway, the film which is apparently pronounced with a short i for the first “live,” and a long i for the second— has been reimagined for 4k widescreen, and is being shown in theatres for the first time this week. It will be playing around town at most of the Event Cinemas, the Ritz in Randwick, the Orpheum in Mosman, and other discriminating venues. Remember if you’ve got any tidbits to share, send them in via #Hubbub. city hub 14 NOVEMBER 2019
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HAMPTONS STYLE SPECIALISTS Showroom L1.14 / L1.15, Supa Centa Moore Park
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city hub 14 NOVEMBER 2019