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Democracy to lose big in amalgamations

By Wendy Bacon Any doubts that the Baird Liberal Nnational Party government has forced mergers of local Councils on its agenda have evaporated since the March state election.

A debate in NSW parliament last week, along with documents outlining processes being used by the LNP government in its ‘Fit for the Future’ reform program, reveal that any forced amalgamations would be aimed at reducing the effectiveness of council and community opposition to unpopular developments including the WestConnex motorway.

Inner west councils along with the City of Sydney have been outspoken critics of WestConnex, and on Tuesday May 19 Marrickville Council joined the City of Sydney and Leichhardt Council in passing a motion stating its strong opposition to WestConnex.

On Thursday last week, NSW Liberal Party MPs voted to defeat a motion that “forced amalgamations of councils” are a “flawed and counter-productive vehicle for meaningful local government reform”.

The motion was initiated by Sydney Independent MP Alex Greenwich and supported by all Labor and Greens MPs and independent Lake Macquarie MP Greg Piper Mr Greenwich told Parliament, “we need local government reform, but it should not be undertaken by state government imposing itself upon local government...”

“Amalgamations will potentially lead to rate increases, but most importantly they will lead to a loss of local representation and a loss of local democracy.”

The LNP government was elected in 2011 on a policy of no forced amalgamations. In its first term, it initiated the ‘Fit for the Future’ process, which it described as one of “partnership”. But despite hundreds of submissions and reports opposing forced mergers, its Independent Local Government Review Panel recommended Sydney councils be reduced from 41 to between 15 and 18.

During the recent election campaign, the then Treasurer Andrew Constance embarrassed the government by referring to “using the stick” to force

Mayor Porteous stands against forced amalgamations.

council mergers. 26 Sydney metropolitan mayors wrote to the Premier seeking a commitment to no forced amalgamations but when questioned, Mr Baird would not disclose whether or not the government had dropped its no forced amalgamations policy.

Councils have been given until June 30 to respond to drastic proposals for a merger of Ashfield, Burwood, City of Canada Bay, Leichhardt, Marrickville and Strathfield Councils into the inner west and a mega-council the size of Tasmania made

up of the City, Randwick, Waverley, Woollahra and Botany. The June deadline is designed for all changes to be complete by the next local government elections in September next year.

A letter sent to councils from the Minister for Local Government Paul Toole in late April has an ominous tone. The first step in demonstrating that they are ‘Fit for the Future’ is to demonstrate ‘scale and capacity’.

In the letter sent to Leichhardt Council Greens Mayor Rochelle Porteous, Mr Toole added, “ I trust that you are exploring the Panel’s recommendation of merging with Ashfield, Burwood, Canada Bay, Marrickville and Strathfield councils, or an alternative broadly consistent with that option, to ensure your council meets the threshold criteria of scale and capacity.”

In a separate document setting out the political agenda behind the amalgamation process, the objective, rationale and methodology are highlighted. While the objectives for rural councils mention maintaining “community life to the maximum extent,” the metropolitan objectives fail to mention community. Instead the focus is on creating councils that will be ‘true partners of State and Federal agencies which would take into account “planned developments” and underpin Sydney’s status as a global city.

The rationale for the merger of the five inner west councils specifically mentions the “need for unified government to plan and manage Parramatta Road, the impact and integration of WestConnex, inner west redevelopment and a proposed major centre at Burwood.”

According to Mayor Porteous, these words lay at the heart of the merger agenda.

“Local councils are the line in the sand defending local communities from the plans of developers and large corporations”, she told City Hub. “Councillors and Mayors are the ones standing up for their local communities and fighting alongside them against bad state government ideas like WestConnex and the overdevelopment plans of UrbanGrowth. No wonder the state government

wants to shut them down.”

The call for unity around planned development would concern residents and groups from Concord to Glebe who are actively campaigning against developments including the sell off of the Powerhouse Museum, the privatisation of Australian Technology Park, and WestConnex.

As City Hub explained in its report last week, the WestConnex Delivery Authority (WDA) environmental assessment processes marginalise communities and individuals but the authority is required to deal and negotiate with each council and respond in more detail to its submissions on behalf of the community.

Merged councils would result in far less elected representatives, reduced staffing and are predicted to lead to more privatised services.

“Turn local councils into mega-councils and you remove local accountability, local democracy and the ability of government to be responsive to the needs of the individual and the community as a whole” said Mayor Porteous.

According to community consultation in Marrickville, Leichhardt, the City of Sydney and other councils, a strong majority of residents support their councils in opposing the amalgamations.

The views of Mr Greenwich, Mayor Porteous and others arguing that the forced amalgamations are a threat to democracy are also supported by an independent report by consultants Morrison Low which was commissioned by several inner Sydney councils.

This report found that the most negative aspect of the Fit for the Future recommendations was “the number of people represented by each councillor will increase significantly making it more difficult for residents to access their councillors and the council.

Based on the current maximum of 15 councillors each of those would represent 22,000 residents which does not compare favourably to a little under 4,700 in Leichhardt currently.” The report also found that there was evidence to support the Councils’ argument case that they can be sustainable in the future in terms of size and funds.

Federal budget: Abbott’s ‘infrastructure fail’ Published weekly and freely available Sydney-wide.

Copies are also distributed to serviced apartments, hotels, convenience stores and newsagents throughout the city.

Distribution enquiries call 9212 5677. Published by the Alternative Media Group of Australia. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content, City Hub takes no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions.

ABN 48 135 222 169 Group Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons Group Manager: Chris Peken Group Editors: Joe Bourke & Emily Contador-Kelsall Contributors: Wendy Bacon, Stephanie Hua & Callum Cyrus.

Arts Editors: Jamie Apps, Alannah Maher Dining Editor: Jackie McMillan Advertising Managers: Robert Tuitama, Mark Barnes Cover Photo: Chris Peken – Debutante Debby Email: question@alternativemediagroup.com Advertising: sales@alternativemediagroup.com Contact: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Web: altmedia.net.au

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By Emily Contador-Kelsall Public transport was largely left out of the recently announced federal budget, casting doubt over Sydney’s future transport solutions.

Current transport projects in Sydney including WestConnex and the CBD and South East Light Rail have been criticised for being inappropriate transport solutions for the city.

The City of Sydney commissioned and released an independent report by SGS earlier this year. The report found that WestConnex was not the right solution for Sydney’s transport problems instead citing public transport as a more viable solution.

Federal Shadow Minister for Infrastructure and Transport and member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese was quick to criticise the federal budget’s failure to invest more money in public transport and other infrastructure projects. He tweeted early last week that the budget was an “infrastructure fail” with “$2b infrastructure cuts, no public transport funding, no vision.”

In a statement on federal cuts to funding for the Pacific Highway, Mr Albanese said the government had “produced the first budget in living memory that did not fund a single new infrastructure project”.

Greens spokesperson for WestConnex and state member for Newtown Jenny Leong said it was disappointing to see billions of dollars of public money committed to more tollways instead of investing in public transport.

“If we truly want economic growth in Sydney, we need a world class public transport system instead of gridlock and traffic,” she said.

“Investment in public transport is the only way to enable a city like Sydney to

Sydney Trains. Source: wikipedia.org

function efficiently. Not only are new tollways hugely expensive, they are also hugely inefficient. The measure of a great city is its connectedness.”

Ms Leong raised health as another issue in relation to Sydney’s transport concerns.

“An unacceptable number of Sydneysiders have no access to effective, efficient and accessible public transport and are forced to spend hours each day sitting in traffic. Traffic gridlock has so many negative impacts on individuals and communities,” she said.

Ms Leong cited pollution from cars causing respiratory diseases as a serious health concern and added that “sitting in cars for hours each day is bad for our physical and mental health.”

The SGS report stated that rail patronage in Sydney has risen while car usage has slowed.

The rapid population growth of the city, which is set to hit around 6.2 million by 2013 and 8.5 million by 2061, poses a substantial planning challenge.

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore has openly condemned the WestConnex tollway and stood in support of public transport solutions for Sydney. She said giving people a “serious public transport alternative” means less traffic on roads.

“Driving will always be a big part of how our city operates, but prioritising a $15 billion roadway above public transport is not the solution Sydney desperately needs – particularly western Sydney,” she said.

“I think it’s a great shame that the Abbott Government continues to shirk its responsibility to help provide public transport.” city hub 21 may 2015

3

Community group criticise “inadequate” consultation in Rozelle

Sydney Superyacht Marina currently Source: superyacht-australia.com

participate by going online and encouraged the community to take part.

But consultation was not Ms Cashmore’s only concern. She said she is worried about the potential impacts of the marina on Rozelle and its surroundings.

“The development will destroy the peace of one of Sydney’s best-loved parks, Bicentennial Park, where people currently walk, picnic and get married. It will adversely impact on residents. The single biggest issue is noise. The marina is just 250 metres from the park and homes,” she said.

But sales assistant Ruby Chandler from The Local Store in Rozelle is hopeful for the Superyacht Marina.

“The building of the marina can only mean good things for Rozelle. It will bring more

people to the area which means more business for The Local Store. There is not a lot of foot traffic around the shop so more people around the area will really help us out,” she said.

The Superyacht Marina redevelopment comprises of two mixed-use buildings, a marine club, accommodation, cafes, restaurants, and a hotel among others. The site is owned by NSW Maritime and is currently being leased to Sydney Superyacht Marina Pty Ltd. The proposed site of redevelopment sits in Rozelle Bay on James Craig Road, directly opposite Glebe Point.

The project is currently on public exhibition and open to community feedback until May 22.

A spokesperson from Sydney Superyacht Marina did not respond in time for publication.

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By Stephanie Hua Community group Save our Bays has criticised the NSW Department of Planning and Environment for failing to adequately inform the public of amendments to proposed plans for a $30 million redevelopment of the Superyacht Marina in Rozelle.

Approval for the development has already been granted but developers, Sydney Superyacht Marina have applied to the NSW Department of Planning and Environment to increase the size of the development among several other design changes.

Save our Bays president Judy Cashmore is opposed to the “Darling Harbour-style entertainment complex” and said residents are concerned that the development has been approved without the public’s voice being listened to or adequate consultation.

“We are particularly concerned that, even before building work starts, the developer wants to make the complex even bigger and noisier,” she said.

“Save Our Bays regards dialogue with the developers as inadequate. We have good reason to have little trust in the process. The current proposed changes are unconscionable - intent on winding the noise and other constraints back to make it bigger and noisier,” said Judy.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Department of Planning and Environment said input from the local community is part of assessing the application and an “integral part of the planning process”. “... the proponent must respond to the issues raised in submissions. This helps us develop our recommendations,” the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said it was easy to

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Australian Technology Park (ATP) – now an innovative business precinct was once one of Australia’s largest industrial sites, home to Sydney’s steam locomotive workshops and railway yards.

ATP’s Heritage Open Day will transport you back in time to when steam train manufacturing dominated Eveleigh.

Saturday 23 May 2015 | 10am–3pm (tour times listed at www.atp.com.au)

Blacksmith’s Workshop via Innovation Plaza, ATP

(enter from Locomotive Street or off Platform 10 at Redfern station)

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Join us for a day of tours and activities: • Hear about life at the rail yards from the passionate workers who toiled here • See the equipment they used in action at live blacksmithing demonstrations • Enjoy fun-filled kids’ activities

ATP’s draft Movable Collection Management Plan is now on exhibition for public comment

Australian Technology Park Office Suite 3220, Locomotive Workshop 2 Locomotive Street, Eveleigh Open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday

A copy of the Draft Management Plan and an updated s170 Register are available to download from the ATP website at www.atp.com.au and on display at:

ATP invites comments and submissions on the documents by 12 June 2015.

Neighbourhood Centre Redfern 158 Redfern Street, Redfern Open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday; 9am to 12pm, Saturday

Submissions can be sent to heritage@atp.com.au or to Juliet Suich, Suite 3220, Locomotive Workshop, 2 Locomotive Street, Australian Technology Park, Eveleigh, 2015, NSW.

Learn more and register for a tour: Email heritage@atp.com.au Call 02 9209 4220 Visit www.atp.com.au city hub 21 may 2015

5

Bays Precinct consultation continues

Give your business the recognition it deserves.

The City of Sydney is a proud sponsor of the NSW Business Chamber Business Awards 2015.

Together with our local chambers of commerce, we encourage businesses within the City’s local government area to participate across all categories in the newly formed Sydney City region of the program.

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Find out more cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/business/business-support 02 9265 9333 citybusiness@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

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6

city hub 21 may 2015

One of the feedback boards on the day. Photo: Joe Bourke

By joe bourke UrbanGrowth NSW hosted the Bays Precinct Sydneysiders Summit last weekend, inviting residents from all around Sydney to help “shape Sydney’s biggest transformation project since the Olympics”.

The summit was part of UrbanGrowth’s consultation efforts for the ambitious project, which will span roughly 30 years.

But many residents were sceptical of the event’s outcomes, and voiced their frustration at other major developments such as Barangaroo.

Local resident Richard Gould was handing out pages highlighting his own idea for a renewable energy hub at the White Bay Power station. He was one of two residents handing out fliers at the door.

Mr Gould said although he had some concerns, he was happy with how the consultation was going.

“The public exercise in consultation is good. I guess really the big concern is what history has told us in respect to other sites, and I have to say that does weigh on my mind when I talk to people, when I think about it,” he said.

“But I have to say that in the years I’ve been involved in this, I haven’t seen any department be as open and accommodating.”

The summit, held in a warehouse at the Australian Technology Park, featured complementary food and drink, including freshly squeezed juice and coffee, provided because “listening, thinking and talking can be thirsty work”, according to the handbook.

When asked by City Hub for the cost of the event, an UrbanGrowth spokesperson said it was “too early for meaningful figures”.

Independent City of Sydney councillor Angela Vithoulkas attended a briefing for councillors on the Bays Precinct last Thursday May 14 and compared the consultation to something that had been “gift wrapped… that on the surface looks absolutely magnificent until you ask the question of how it’s being paid for”.

“What is the cost of that and do the people know?

If they really did want to have a true and open consultation process, they would acknowledge the significance of the project in ways that concern the community,” she said.

Members of the summit were invited to write ideas about each of the main sites of the precinct on post-it-notes and stick them on walls labelled “agree”, “disagree” or “other comments”. In certain sections, larger pieces of paper were provided for more in depth responses. The warehouse also featured a video feedback room, where attendees had the option to speak face to face with an UrbanGrowth representative, and discussion tables, where one-onone time with representatives was available.

The comments written on the post-it-notes were

wide reaching, ranging from longer responses to the tongue in cheek “we need more casinos! Signed James Packer”.

The contentious White Bay Cruise terminal was a site which drew many resident responses.

“Given that the EPA Inquiry declared the ship terminal at White Bay “a serious error”, the future of the terminal should be in doubt at this location,” one response read.

“Serious impacts must be dealt with immediately and solutions not subject to plans for the future.”

Other responses were more positive about the future of the terminal as a working port, but the majority at least urged UrbanGrowth and the government to apply low sulphur fuel regulations and shore to ship power at the terminal. This solution would greatly decrease pollution, but has been criticised for not addressing the noise complaints of those living nearby.

The booklet which was handed out on the day flagged more housing as a possible addition to the site, but had no mention of removing cruise ships from the port.

“There is potential for this area to be transformed with medium density living designed to complement all that is enjoyed in the existing neighbourhoods alongside smaller scale working harbour activities connecting to the waterfront,” it read.

Another big development discussed on the day was the potential ‘Bays Market District’. The plan would see the Sydney Fish Market transformed into a “fresh food marketplace”.

A report on Sunday by Fairfax Media suggested a bid would soon be made for the Blackwattle Bay area that would see 32-storey apartments on the foreshore surrounding the markets. UrbanGrowth CEO David Pitchford denied the claims, also taking the moment to defend the consultation process.

“The Call for Great Ideas is not a procurement process,” he told The Financial Review.

“UrbanGrowth NSW does not know who will or will not make a bid to redevelop Blackwattle Bay, but the fact is that the time for bid of any sort is some time away, and when there is a call it will be a transparent and open public process.”

One idea brought forward in the process came from local resident Richard Gould, who has a plan for the White Bay power station to be a “global beacon for energy design”.

Mr Gould’s plan includes space for seminars, conventions and corporate research offices.

“I’m thinking globally not just locally.

Around the planet, there’s no place where there is a concentrated effort in putting concepts together, communicating, testing, educating, and understanding and looking at energy for what it is,” he said.

Tent embassy remains under threat

By Callum Cyrus A leading figure of the Aboriginal Tent Embassy has challenged the authorities to take occupiers to court after they were threatened with eviction on National Sorry Day. Protesters at the Block in Eveleigh Street, Redfern were issued with a 14-day eviction notice on Tuesday May 12 by the Aboriginal Housing Company (AHC), who owns the development site.

Developers Deicorp are preparing to start on the Pemulwuy project in February 2016, which the AHC says will “rebuild a strong Aboriginal community that encapsulates cultural values and economically sustainable Aboriginal community at the Block.”

But critics of the project have been upset by Deicorp’s emphasis on shops and a seven-storey student apartment building set to be erected in the area.

So far, student residences have proved more enticing to investors than plans to build affordable housing for Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders.

Aunty Jenny Munro, a founding member of the AHC, said she remained unconvinced

the company would ever provide affordable housing at The Block and hoped the protesters’ case could be heard in the courtroom.

“If you follow the development plans it was never going to be a big developer’s dream like they’ve planned now.

It was supposed to be lowincome housing for Aboriginal people,” she told City Hub. “We’ll do our best to stay here and that means they’re going to have to take us through the court system somehow.

Either with the sheriff to arrest us for trespass or with the police to arrest us for trespass.”

But the AHC insists that student residences and retail developments are necessary to ensure 62 affordable apartments for Aboriginals can go ahead.

A spokeswoman from the AHC told City Hub their intention was for the project to be the “foundation for a strong and healthy Aboriginal Strait Islander community at Redfern, with an emphasis on cultural values spirituality and employment.”

“Unfortunately we still have not seen a positive viable proposal for the Aboriginal housing at Redfern from the people protesting at the site.”

Waverley community rallies against high rise

By Callum Cyrus Hundreds of rallying residents in Bondi Junction demanded a halt to proposed high-rise buildings in the district in a rally last Saturday May 16.

Save West Bondi Junction, the organisers of the rally, estimated over 200 people gathered at Oxford Street in Bondi Junction to listen to speakers including Waverley Labor councillors Paula Masselos and John Wakefield.

Attendees shouted “sack Sally,” in reference to Waverley Council’s Liberal Mayor Sally Betts, as passing motorists honked their horns in support of the protest.

Local residents were unhappy with a proposal from developers Stargate Properties to build two 38-metre towers at the corner of 194-214 Oxford St and 2 Nelson St. Criticism has centred around the state heritage-listed Centennial Parklands nearby, where activists claim the skyline could be spoiled by any towering developments.

City Hub spoke to Clr Masselos at the protest.

“They’re talking about making this a grand entrance into Bondi Junction, but we’ve got Centennial Park right there. So this really is incompatible with Centennial Park and with the notion of a gateway. We should actually have our park as the gateway, something that is quite beautiful and creates public amenity,” she said.

“The community has come together, they have formed an organisation and this shows that they don’t want this. They have been speaking very loudly for 12 months but council hasn’t listened.”

Stargate’s proposals, still awaiting assessment from the council’s planning officers, would

Saturday’s rally. Photo: Callum Cyrus

require an increase in height restrictions from 15 metres to 38 metres as well as the removal of heritage protection from four terrace homes.

Height restrictions in the Local Environment Plan can only be altered by the state government, who are also the only body capable of overturning the Council’s decision on review.

West Bondi Junction’s community also voiced concerns about the development’s impact on traffic at the junction between Oxford St and York Road.

Howard Parry-Husbands, Save West Bondi Junction member and Traffic Representative on the Bondi Junction precinct committee, told City Hub “the developer’s analysis suggests that adding 1,090 more people will maintain the level of service.”

“I think that is absurd. It will gridlock Oxford St and York Road all the way back to Paddington. His [the developer’s] own

modelling suggests there’ll be hundreds more cars out of Nelson Street, which is a tiny street,” he said.

Clr Wakefield, ex-mayor of Waverley and councillor for Bondi, said it was an “outrageous proposition” and challenged Mayor Betts to stand up to the developers.

“It would never have happened when I was mayor. I pushed developers to my planning department and said ‘if you are within our controls you will be approved, if you’re outside them you will be rejected.’ It is as simple as that,” he told City Hub. But a spokesperson for the mayor’s office told City Hub that it would be inappropriate to respond until the proposal is looked at by Waverley officers.

The spokesperson added that the council officers’ assessment “will take the West Oxford Precinct Plan and recent feedback into consideration.”

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Light rail schedule still under construction

By Joe Bourke Shadow Minister for Transport Ryan Park has renewed calls for Transport for NSW (TfNSW) to release the construction schedule of the CBD and South East Light Rail.

The project, which is one of the biggest infrastructure projects in the world, is set to begin around this spring and will have a major affect on traffic and businesses along the route.

Mr Park said now is the time for a “full community awareness campaign” about the exact disruptions.

“This is something that can’t be done just once with an ad in the paper,” he said.

“It’s got to be be done regularly and frequently, all the way up to and including during the time when major construction is set to start.”

A TfNSW spokesperson told City Hub that the specifics of the construction schedule would be released “in the very near future”.

According to the spokesperson, the time taken has been in order to create the “most accurate schedule possible”.

“The alignment will be divided into individual zones and work will be carried out in stages to minimise the impact to residents, businesses and commuters. There will be additional fees should ALTRAC occupy any zone for longer than the agreed schedule and incentives for them to finish early,” they said.

“The NSW government has detailed plans in place to communicate the changes to the public and coordinate traffic and public transport changes throughout the construction process.”

“The construction process will have a significant impact but the benefits will last for generations to come.”

City of Sydney councillor Angela Vithoulkas is the owner of Vivo Cafe on George Street, and has been campaigning for the construction schedule to be released for some time.

Clr Vithoulkas will attend a business reference

George Street. Source: wikipedia.commons

group committee meeting on Thursday, where business owners will officially meet the consortiums behind the construction.

Despite the ongoing consultation, Clr Vithoulkas

said small businesses felt like they were being forced to “shoulder the economic burden” of the project without assistance.

“Every negative word they may hear on concerns

from the business or small business community is being counterattacked with ‘Sydney still needs to stay open for business and we we all need to come together to make this happen’,” she said.

“Well it’s the retailers on the ground, it’s everyone that has a shop and some kind of business presence on the ground. We are the ones shouldering the burden and yet we are not being assisted.”

Clr Vithoulkas also said that although the concerns about what would happen to the heavy traffic on George Street had taken precedence in the media, the “economic drought” that will hit businesses would be a much more “drawn out, violent war”.

The TfNSW spokesperson said that the congestion in Sydney was currently having a “major” impact on the city’s economy.

“Sydney’s congestion is already having a major financial impact on the city’s economy. The transport network is straining and without major change will grind to a halt.”

Despite offering incentives to ALTRAC for finishing the project early and charging fees for overstaying in certain zones, there are no plans by TfNSW to compensate businesses for disruption caused by construction. But Clr Vithoulkas has called for an amendment to the Retail Leases Act 1994, which she said would be a “win-win for all”.

“The government has already made it clear that they won’t be providing compensation for business owners along the construction routes,” she said.

“Amending the Act would go some way to supporting small business and the financial and emotional toll that the construction process is going to place on their ability to trade and continue to provide jobs to their employees in the long-term.”

When City Hub asked Mr Park about possible compensation, he said it was something that should be considered, but that “what businesses really want to know is when, where, how, and who they can talk to if they are having issues”.

FROM THE MAYOR No Minimum Population or Targets for the Number of Councils in Sydney The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal IIPART) has been appointed as the Expert Panel to assess all councils’ “Fit for the Future” submissions.

Their assessment criteria is on exhibition at the moment - you can find it at www.ipart.nsw.gov.au.

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You have until 25 May to make a submission.

You can still influence a critical part of the criteria with your submission - the “Scale and Capacity Threshold Criteria” (p 21).

IPART wants to know if they should indicate what ‘an appropriate minimum population size’ is and if there should be a “target number of councils in the metropolitan or regional area”. I strongly encourage you to say there should be NO MINIMUM POPULATION SIZE AND NO TARGET NUMBER OF COUNCILS. To view Leichhardt Council’s draft submission to IPART; for a full list of criteria that should be challenged in the IPART Methodology; and to view the NSW Minister of Local Government’s recent letter to me pushing for Leichhardt to amalgamate, please go to www.leichhardt.nsw.gov.au/amalgamationrisk Cr Rochelle Porteous Mayor of Leichhardt  Leichhardt Council  7-15 Wetherill St Leichhardt  Ph 9367 9222  Fx 9367 9111   www.leichhardt.nsw.gov.au  leichhardt@lmc.nsw.gov.au   facebook/LeichhardtCouncil  twitter@leichhardtmc  8

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Ballaarat Park campaign kicks off The Pyrmont community and businesses are calling for Ballaarat Park to be expanded as the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (SHFA) prepares to transfer its final land holdings in Pyrmont to the City of Sydney.

The community is calling on the state government and the City of Sydney to remove the local roads around the park, thus increasing the green space at Ballaarat Park, which sits opposite Barangaroo on Darling Island and looks over Sydney Harbour.

Co-convenor of the Ballaarat Park community campaign Jean-Paul Markopoulos said the roads around the park were not used during the week and were primarily used by late night patrons to the Star casino.

He also said the City of Sydney was “pro keeping cars out of the city and creating green open spaces,” which has given locals hope for the expansion of Ballaarat Park as the state government exits the area.

A key aim for the campaign is for the roads surrounding the park to be removed, which would increase the size of the park by sixty percent. Removing the adjacent roads would also reduce existing late night activity in the area.

Under the terms of a 1994 agreement between the State of NSW and the City of Sydney “public parks and roads developed by the state government authority were to be transferred to the City when rate revenue from Ultimo Pyrmont was sufficient to fund reasonably anticipated costs for maintaining and managing the sites.”

As part of that agreement, the former Water Police Site was transferred back to the City in 2004 and other parts of Pyrmont were transfered in 2010. Disputes about the cost of repairing the Pyrmont Point Wharf and other maintenance costs have delayed the transfer of land at Darling Island.

At the former Water Police site Lord Mayor Clover Moore supported a community campaign to substantially increase the waterfront parkland at Pirrama Park. That success has been cited as an example of the

Roads surrounding Ballaarat Park

City’s historical push for open space in Pyrmont, the state’s most densely populated suburb.

The expansion of Ballaarat Park would be beneficial for a multitude reasons to both the “immediate community and the wider community,” according to Mr Markopoulos.

“They [the roads] are used for parking on Friday and

Saturday nights when we have issues with the casino and the nightclubs surrounding there and we have a few unsavoury characters,” he said.

The recent billion dollar redevelopment of The Star, which relocated the casino’s main entrance to the Darling Island side of the building, has increased traffic through the area. The roads surrounding Ballaarat Park

are at their busiest over the weekend when the casino draws in crowds.

The contentious lockout laws in Kings Cross, Darlinghurst and the CBD have further increased late night activity at the Star in the last year, which is exempt from the after hour restrictions. Residents have also reported drag racing occurring in the area.

But the need for green space in Australia’s most densely populated suburb is the most prominent reason for the community’s calls.

“There’s a definite lack of green space in the area, and there’s probably 30 plus children who live in the area of Darling Island alone,” Mr Markopoulos said.

The City of Sydney currently has a “greening the city” plan, part of their Sustainable Sydney 2030 vision.

The project aims to “reintroduce greenery to our home”, according to the City’s website.

A City of Sydney spokesperson said the City was “in ongoing discussions with the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority regarding the transfer of open space in Pyrmont to the City.”

“The City’s longstanding view is that land within our local government area should be managed by us as that would ensure clear lines of accountability for the provision of service,” the spokesperson said.

“The City is continuing to work with all relevant stakeholders towards this aim.”

The dilapidated state of Pyrmont Point Wharf, which is currently being upgraded by the state government, appears to be the tipping point for the transfer.

But a spokesperson from SHFA said there has been no decision on the transfer of the SHFA owned land to the City of Sydney.

“The NSW Government has appointed a high level committee to develop a clear vision of the Sydney Harbour foreshore to ensure there is efficiency and effective coordination of the management of this State significant area. As part of this the ownership of foreshore land is being considered,” a SHFA spokesperson said.

Have your say on Sydney’s wastewater (sewer) network during wet weather

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Sydney Water is seeking to develop a better approach that can adapt and continue to deliver benefits for the environment and community, and better value for our customers.

While Sydney Water is the largest manager of wastewater in Greater Sydney, everyone has a role to play in protecting the environment.

Your participation is important and we invite you to join in a series of three (2 hour) workshops, between June and August 2015.

You can also take part in our online engagement forum.

Don’t miss your opportunity to provide input. Register your interest: • online: sydneywatertalk.com.au • by email: wetweather@sydneywater.com.au • by mail: Sonia Doohan Senior Community Relations Advisor Sydney Water PO Box 399, Parramatta NSW 2124 Nominations close on Tuesday 2 June 2015.

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ARTS FEATURE

Debby Doesn’t Do It For Free

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artists. Everyone is so many different things.”

This year’s show is a self-proclaimed whoretastic, loud, proud, and playful expression of Australian sex worker culture.

Deep-Dish Debby explains, “If people had a greater understanding of what sex work actually is, and what our lives as sex workers are actually like, then a lot of [the] stigma would be greatly reduced.” She continues, “Art is a great forum for activism… Hopefully people who come along to the show will be able to explore those contradictions and dispel the myths.”

The artists’ stories are told in a range of mediums, everything from photography to body paint to embroidery. The exhibition features a series of lino-cuts by Delightful Deb Arckle, exploring the duality of being a sex worker and a mother, alongside new work by Debutante Debby (pictured on cover) entitled My Life With Craig Thomson, a montage archive of Australian mainstream media representations of sex worker issues.

The centerpiece of the show is the HJ Hooker performance window, occupied by members of the collective. The provocative installation promises to attract some attention from Palmer street passersby.

In collaboration with the collective, representatives from industry groups

Debby Decay – Photo: Chris Peken

Scarlet Alliance and Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWOP) will deliver free talks on industry trends and sexual health services on Thursday June 4 from 12 – 2pm.

From 1pm on Saturday June 6, artists Debby Decay (pictured above), Debutante Debby, Difficult Debby and

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Debby Diva will participate in a talk session, giving guests a rare insight into the lived realities of the sex work industry.

Exhibition: June 2 - 6, TAP Gallery, 278 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst, FREE entry, Details: http://www.tapgallery.org.au/ debby-doesnt-do-it-for-free/

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associated with their line of work, “most people have limited knowledge about sex workers and mainstream media fuels misunderstandings,” explained Janelle. To combat this, the Scarlet Alliance regularly does presentations at conferences, speaks publicly, holds events and produces resources. “Recently we have undertaken lobbying with the Human Rights Commission on the need for sex workers to be covered by anti-discrimination laws across Australia. Groups like Debby Doesn’t Do It For Free also help the community understand that sex workers are just like everyone else and should be treated as valued members of the community.”

Exhibition participant Debby Diva – who has worked as a writer, journalist, stripper and bondage practitioner – spoke of the importance of realising that the sex work industry draws people from many different backgrounds: “Sex work is real work. It is a legal occupation in NSW.” Sex work was decriminalised in NSW two decades ago, which she believes is “best practice, because it means the health and safety of workers is protected.”

The exhibition sets out to unravel some commonly held stereotypes. Deep-Dish Debby says, “One thing that people often don’t realize about sex workers is that we are a lot more than just our job – we do other things too: we are family members; we might do other jobs; we might be involved in community; we might be

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BY Carmen Cita & Jamie Apps June sees the arrival of a bold new exhibition at Darlinghurst’s TAP Gallery, revealing a rarely seen side of sex work.

Debby Doesn’t Do It For Free comprises eye-opening works from an intergenerational collective of 26 sex worker artists, male and female, all telling their stories with art.

Participating artist Deep-Dish Debby* says: “Between us, we have artists exploring political, sexual, historical and everyday aspects of sex work. It’s really a chance for people to peep into the lives of sex workers, and learn about the sex industry from people who know it.” (*Privacy is imperative for those in the sex work industry, and so all of the participating artists have assumed Debby-centric pseudonyms to maintain confidentiality.)

The sex work industry is often relegated to the shadows of the public conscience, however it is a surprisingly large industry with “an estimated 20,000 sex workers in Australia at any one time,” according to Janelle Fawkes, CEO of the Scarlet Alliance, Australian Sex Workers Association. The organisation is made up of sex workers, such as those involved in the Debby Doesn’t Do It For Free group, to represent them and help them combat the myriad of issues they face on a daily basis.

One of the biggest issues facing sex workers is the stigma and discrimination

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Theatre Company

10

city hub 21 may 2015

EAT & DRINK

Mafi Mitlo Kings Cross on a Friday night used to resemble a war zone; well before we got lumped with a Liberal state government, that is. This makes the well-executed bunker fit out by Shawn West from 2D Studio, a little bittersweet for anyone who loved the vibrant Kings Cross of old. With that off my chest, there’s still something pleasingly ironic about sliding into this subterranean M.A.S.H. unit setting to eat Arabic

$ - mains less than $15

$$ - mains between $15-$22

DARLO, KINGS X & SURRY HILLS Kujin The deft hot-plate work here is less about theatre, and more about the food.

The chefs are Japanese and the cuisine Osaka-style.The teppan grill is hot, and the udon are hand-made. Scalding-hot off the grill comes Osaka-style Okonomiyaki ($18) with pork and egg noodles. It’s a sticky, umami-rich taste of real Osaka.

Similarly grill-hot is the Eggplant ($14) topped with miso and cheese.While I was sceptical of blowtorch-burnished Grilled Oysters ($9) with miso mayo, they are a smoky, briny revelation. Murky and gently spicy, the winter-special of Red-Brown Miso Simmered Udon ($16) showcases

By Jackie McMillan street food. First thing you need is a beer, and if ontap Aussie options like Coopers Pale Ale ($6/330ml) don’t grab you, get the affable staff to nip next door for the Lebanese 961 Red Ale ($8.50).Yes, this is an offshoot of the now formidable Kazbah empire, owned by Zahi Azzi. He’s put his stamp on the menu too, by using his mother’s recipe for the Kibbeh ($8/4 pieces). Mum clearly knows best, as it’s unsurpassed by any of the others I’ve tried. The Sambousek ($8/4 pieces) are also impressive, especially in conjunction with strong garlic Toum ($6.50) or super-smoky Baba ($7.50). Now most things involving kale I tend to treat as hipster affectations, not so the Kale Tabbouleh ($12.50) here – it’s fabulous, nudging out the Grainy Fattoush ($13.50). Round out your meal with the fragrant Chicken Shawarma ($14.50) and surprisingly good Chips with Harissanaise ($6.50).

9/15 Bayswater Road, Kings Cross (1300) 529 224 mafimitlo.com.au Lebanese $

$$$ - mains between $22-$30

their pleasingly dense udon, great with a frosty Sapporo ($8) in your hand.

1/41B Elizabeth Bay Road, Elizabeth Bay (02) 9331 6077 kujin.com.au Japanese $$ DiWine Newcomer DiWine is tucked between perennial favourites, Lucio Pizzeria and Phamish, in the Republic 2 courtyard.

Owner/chef Vittorio Esposito is making pasta in-house, and it shows in Strozzapreti with Swordfish ($26). From the decent, inexpensive by-the-glass list, the 2012 Bertani Soave Sereole DOC ($11/$44) gives you a taste of the Italian seaside when taken with sweet, fleshy Figs ($10) with prosciutto and Gorgonzola.

Spot-on cooking keeps Mussels in Black Pepper Broth ($15) plump and briny.

$$$$ - mains over $30

Buddy up your bivalves with beer – clean and well-balanced Sardinian Ichnusa ($7) or an even better artisanal Birra Gjulia TOZ ($14). Finish with a straight-ahead Beef Tagliata ($26) – charred on the outside, and pleasantly pink within.

248 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst (02) 8354 1086 diwinesydney.com.au Italian $$$ Casoni If you loved this spot as Foley Lane, you should breathe easier knowing that Nathan Moses and Julian Marchetto are still very much behind this new incarnation.They’ve switched out Spanish for Italian, and made your choice of aperitif easy with both Negroni ($16) and Aperol Spritz ($14) on tap. Head Chef Lachlan Robinson is dishing up contemporary Italian eats, from small

Rosan Enter the world of the Japanese salaryman at this intriguing traditional Japanese restaurant tucked into downtown Darlinghurst.The central table puts Australian communal table behaviour to shame - unrelated guests exchange meishi (business cards) and trade places to network over their Suntory Premium Malt ($11) beers. Chef Hiroshi Miura is celebrated for his ability to finely cut fish.Thinly Sliced Imperador ($26) arrives looking like a lace doily, with garnishes like momiji oroshi (grated radish with

plates like Bucatini and Provolone Croquettes ($8/2 pieces) to ‘Pasta of the Day’ - Beetroot and Tarragon Risotto ($24) topped with braised lamb shoulder.The vivid magenta risotto is well complemented by a 2012 L’Isola Bianco ($15/glass), a Sicilian inzolia blend, whose coastal crispness slices through lamb fat.

371-373 Bourke Street, Darlinghurst casoni.com.au Bar, Cocktails, Italian $$-$$$

ROCKS & CBD The Gantry Restaurant & Bar Raw materials are a focus at the refurbished Pier One Sydney Harbour.

Interior designers Bates Smart have done wonders with reclaimed timbers; while in the kitchen, Canadian Chef Chris Irving pays reverence to

chilli) venturing beyond the ubiquitous wasabi-soy to truly celebrate the natural flavour of the gossamer fish. Super pliable pancakes wrapped around tender Rosan Duck ($15/4) leave you wanting more. More substantial Steamed Prawn Dumplings ($10/4) impress with the intensity of bisque-like (heads and shell) flavour. A meatier version from the chalkboard, Crispy Deep Fried Prawn Mince with Fig ($15), proved another winner. If only all deep fried food came as beautifully balanced by broth, warm, fleshy figs and aromatic pickled ginger! The koto music and enthusiastic welcomes ringing out from the convivial centre table encourage you to unwind. Choose an individual sake cup for your clean, dry Asabiraki Junmai Ohkarakuchi Sujin ($28/300ml), and enjoy it with Deep Fried Whole Flounder ($18).The ever-so-lightly battered fish pieces are presented in a crunchy fried fish skeleton bowl, which transforms into a wonderful edible drinking snack.

Shop 107, 46-50 Burton Street, Darlinghurst (02) 9357 2240 facebook.com/RosanJapaneseCuisine Japanese $$-$$$

the bounty of our seas. On a blustery evening, it’s his handling of land critters that beckon, from Venison Tartare ($20) to brutally satisfying Smoked Bone Marrow ($16). Rustic Beetroot Homefries ($8), salt-crusted slabs of earthy-sweet beetroot, provide a good stick-to-your-ribs supplement to judiciously sized mains, including the ultra-pretty Jumjum Muscovy Duck ($36) with citrus glaze, carrots and purslane. End with the deceptively simple Fresh Austral Figs ($15) - dessert elevated to near perfection.

11 Hickson Road,Walsh Bay (02) 8298 9910 thegantry.com.au Modern Australian,Wine $$$$ Opera Bar Café You can’t get more ‘Sydney’ than

breakfast by the harbour, yet choices for Sydneysiders and tourists alike, are lacking on the lower concourse. Enter the new-look Opera Bar who say: don’t just come for sunset drinks, start your day here, too! Our pick is the Fig, Goat’s Curd, Mint and Walnut Toast ($12) with the barista’s own Single Origin Roasters Cold Brew ($5).

If you’re on the go, (the café opens at 7am) grab a homemade muesli bar and a 100% raw, organic Cold Pressed Juice ($8), and be on your way.

Or start the day properly with the Bacon and Egg Roll ($12) or Spinach, Mushroom and Raclette Toastie ($12).

Lower Concourse Level, Sydney Opera House (02) 9247 1666 operabar.com.au Café, Breakfast $

PYRMONT FESTIVAL POP UP EVENT When: THURSDAY 21 MAY from 6pm to 9pm Where: Signorelli Gastronomia Ground Floor of Accenture/Google Building, Trouton Place, Pyrmont

Why: Closing night of the City Hub’s crowd funding campaign: www.indiegogo.com/projects/ don-t-make-your-news-limited Launch of a new community campaign to expand Ballaarat Park in Pyrmont.

city hub 21 MAY 2015

11

EAT DRINK

EAT &&DRINK

By Jackie McMillan

Forest Lodge Hotel

By Ryan Kennedy Festooned with fairy lights, a stocking-clad doll, vintage photos, and boasting craft beers on tap, the bar at the Forest Lodge Hotel—or Flodge as I once lovingly knew it—has come a long way from my fond memories of stale beer and aromatic football socks. Where there were once VB jugs, rusted-on locals, and footy on the TV, there’s now Craft Beer

INNER WEST Runcible Spoon My favourite Camperdown café is now opening on Friday nights between 5pm and 10pm. Kick back with a Mountain Goat India Pale Ale ($8) on the large shared table with a crowd of easygoing locals. Eat from a concise menu inspired by the path Chef Alex Watts takes to work. From Marrickville’s Faros Bros, the Salmon Belly ($22) is nicely fatty, and turned slightly Japanese with miso, tahini and bottarga. Enjoy it with Heirloom Tomato,Whipped Feta & Herbs ($14) using tomatoes plucked from his mother’s garden. Mum is also responsible for the rhubarb in his Rhubarb and Fig Upside-Down Cake ($8).Think healthy, homey, and relaxed.

By Jackie McMillan jackie@alternativemediagroup.com

Tasting Paddles ($15) and beard and flannelette-types relaxing to the tunes of The Strokes and Radiohead.

Moving down the paddle from a fresh and hoppy Murray’s Stone Kicker Ale ($7) to the wonderfully named, and smoke and barley flavoured Draughty Kilt Scotch Ale ($9), I’ve got to admit—things have changed for the better. This becomes more apparent with the arrival of a perfectly cooked Kangaroo Fillet ($26), with chunks of burnished onion hidden under an earthy beetroot, walnut and goats cheese salad.

The madras-style Fish Curry ($20) we’re told is “famous around here”. It’s turmeric heavy, mild and elegant, with a slab of crisp-skinned salmon; while Grilled Chilli Octopus Salad ($16) is reminiscent of a green papaya salad but a little too salty—nothing that can’t be fended off with a slurp of beer. This is a very cosy local and well worth a look.

117 Arundel Street, Forest Lodge (02) 9660 1872 forestlodgehotel.com.au Pub Bistro $$-$$$

27 Barr Street, Camperdown (02) 9519 2727 facebook.com/runciblespooncafe Modern Australian, Café $$$ EASTERN SUBURBS & BEACHES

Little Jean Double Bay has had a little makeover, and riding on the coattails of the impressive InterContinental Hotel, is Little Jean. Relaxed and streamlined, it’s like a first-class airport lounge, so keep it classy with freshly shucked Sydney Rock Oysters ($20/6) and Prosecco ($9.50/ glass) from Victoria’s High Country.

The café (bistro by night) is by the guys behind the Golden Sheaf’s bistro, and showcases seasonal, sustainable produce.

Bruschetta ($16) with house-cured

salmon is fresh and filling, while Steak Frites ($28) are Frenchy and chic like the clientele, smothered in maître d’hotel butter. On the lighter side, Roasted Cauliflower Salad ($18) is perfectly balanced with creamy tahini and yoghurt dressing.

1 Kiaora Road, Double Bay (02) 9328 0201 littlejean.com.au Modern Australian, Café $$ Stillery Inside this luxurious Double Bay bar, decked out in pale blue and marble with stately gilt settees, Bar Manager Aaron Gaulke commands an impressive array of gins. While the subtle saffron notes of Boudier Saffron Gin ($13) are best sipped straight, many gins benefit from lengthening with tonic. In that

chicken dinner itch, but lands looking beautifully contemporary alongside endives topped with edible flowers, and snowy Parmesan and peanut crumb. While floor staff fling strips of raw steak to a waiting kookaburra, I get equally excited by the Grilled Wagyu Rump Cap ($48). Sitting under a fluffy layer of shaved foie gras, the beautifully cooked beef is perfectly balanced by plump blueberries, king brown mushroom boasting artful grill-marks, and roasted onion and lemon puree.While strong French technique is evident across the menu, it explodes in sides like Dauphine Potatoes ($10.50) - the best crunchy mashed potato balls I’ve ever put in my mouth.A fabulous wine list, producing an interesting and nicely textural 2013 Château Petit Roubié Picpoul de Pinet ($83), and a ripper Raspberry Salad ($19) dessert, further cement my affection for this unique spot.

2 Anderson Place, Cottage Point (02) 9456 1011 cottagepointinn.com.au Modern Australian $$$$

The Balmain Hotel

By Ryan Kennedy With dumplings one buck each on a Thursday night, most patrons are tucking into steaming bamboo baskets—but at The Balmain Hotel there’s also a new menu to try. This is an intriguingly designed pub, each room has its own style, with the dining area around the kitchen dark-wooded, low-lit and casual. In here, salty creamy goodness is doubled down in both

department this bar also excels, offering up many choices from artisan syrups like Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Small Batch Tonic to East Imperial Tonic. The latter is perfect against the nutty sesame of The Cambridge Distillery’s Japanese Style Gin ($22), and also well matched by Charred Fremantle Octopus ($16) with hunks of mortadella from Executive Chef Julien Pouteau’s tasty bar menu.

Level 1, InterContinental Hotel, 33 Cross Street, Double Bay (02) 8388 8388 intercontinental.com/Doublebay Bar, Bar Food, Cocktails $$$ NEWTOWN & ENVIRONS Knuckles Sandwich Bar It’s the inkblot test – whether you think

GREATER SYDNEY Firefly During the Festival of Guilty Food Pleasures, the shoestring fries at Firefly, usually Parmesan-dusted and truffle-oiled, come baconenriched with a paprika aioli.

Labelled Cheesy Bacon Truffle Fries ($14), the resultant plate somehow outdoes the description.

Enormous open windows front the street, and people-watching is best enjoyed over a smooth Vinicola Poletti Sangiovese ($12/glass).A Feral Brewing Hop Hog ($9.50) is the ideal foil to their healthy (okay, healthier) alternative to the aforementioned cheesy-truffle 12

city hub 21 MAY 2015

mountain: Zucchini Fries ($15).

Heartier share plates, like Lamb Backstrap ($23) with buckwheat, artichoke puree and mint yoghurt, come conveniently portioned. End with an appropriately decadent Warm Chocolate Brownie ($10).

24 Young Street, Neutral Bay (02) 9909 0193 fireflybar.com.au Bar, Bar Food,Wine $$-$$$ Dachshund Coffee Despite two gleaming russet gold Hungarian Vizslas sitting at the door, co-owner Rob Stein explains Dachshund Coffee is “just a name, though one that’s a little preppy and playful.” The resulting café has injected some Surry Hills-style into the changing face of Hunters

Hill.Their carefully selected produce starts with Fat Poppy coffee, scrubbing up quite nicely in a Latte ($3.50). Handcrafted Brickfields bread makes an excellent platform for Reformed Avocado ($18.50), buried in a flurry of vine-ripened tomatoes, tabbouleh, quinoa and crisp sage leaves, topped with an optional poached Egganic Egg ($4). Or there’s Zucchini and Goat’s Feta Fritters ($19.50) with smoked ocean trout-spiked red leaf and dill salad.

Shop 4, 64-68 Gladesville Road, Hunters Hill (02) 9879 4619 facebook.com/dachshundcoffee Café $$

of a knock to the face, or a succulent hock of pork.This sandwich bar lies amongst factories in the industrial fashion precinct of Alexandria.Their Veal Schnitzel Ciabatta Roll ($12) made fresh to order with lemon aioli, rocket and Parmesan demonstrates it’s seriously the only decent place to get a sanga on McEvoy Street. However don’t neglect the burgers! The popular Cheeseburger ($10) has a golden sesame milk bun that reminds me of the old school milk bars.

Speaking of which, you must order a side of Hand Cut Chips ($3.50) and the Belgian Chocolate Milkshake ($6.50) to wash it down.

88 McEvoy Street,Alexandria (0403) 821 117 knucklessandwichbar.com.au Café – $-$$ Pitt St Diner

FOOD NEWS

Every neighbourhood should have a little Parisian bistro.A block from Redfern Park, Pitt St Diner has been building a solid local customer base using classic French cookery and friendly service.The young French chefs from the south-west of France play to their seaside strengths and offer up a clattering mound of Moules Marinières ($25) in white wine and cream sauce. Steak and Frites ($31) here is a blushing, charred, rib-eye with shoestring fries.Whole Fish of the Day ($25) is a crisp skinned, tender baked ocean trout.

Owner Gary Prebble matches Chocolate Fondant ($12) against the spicy and fruity Storm Ridge Pinot Noir ($45/bottle); it’s a knockout combination.

96 Pitt Street, Redfern (02) 8668 5936 pittstdiner.com.au Modern French $$$

By Jackie McMillan In my home, Cobram Estate Extra Virgin Olive Oil is our general all-purpose olive oil, and we usually supplement it with a premium olive oil like Joseph First Run or The Little General for dressings and finishing dishes. This month I’ve been trying out Cobram Estate’s ultra premium range, and it looks like our household will be making the switch. The Cobram Estate Ultra Premium Reserve Hojiblanca [RRP $20/500ml] proved to be my favourite, and also won Gold and Best in Class in the recent New York International Olive Oil Competition. It’s fruity rather than grassy, with a lovely floral fragrance and very little bitterness. For a grassy, robust olive oil with a bit of sophistication, the Première Extra Virgin Olive [RRP $10/375ml] is the way to go. It’s another award-winner, taking out Gold and Best in Class as well, and it proved to be quite versatile. While only a silver medallist, the Cobram Estate Ultra Premium Reserve Picual [RRP $20/500ml] is round and pleasantly peppery. If you can afford all three, the whole suite gives you a broad range of ways to finish dishes at home, just like chefs do in restaurants. You’ll find the ultra premium range at IGA and other independent supermarkets, and at gourmet food stores. www.cobramestate.com.au

Cottage Point Inn Descend onto one of the leafy green fingers that protrude into the Hawkesbury, a mere fifty minutes from the city, for a rather special dining experience. Parisian born Chef Guillaume Zika delivers a modern, fad-resistant menu that satisfies both the restaurant’s long-standing customers; while still containing something new for the adventurous. Line-caught Snapper Carpaccio ($28) utilises familiar ingredients strawberry sauce vierge and celery – united by white balsamic to transport the dish somewhere new. Spatchcock ($45) scratches the old roast

smoked cheese-enriched stuffed zucchini flowers and aromatic jalapeno croquettes, each irresistibly deep-fried and crispy. Throw in some fluffy Peking duck steamed buns topped with fresh slivers of spring onion, and you have one tasty Share Plate for 2 ($35). But this is a pub, and pubs live and die by their classics. Fortunately the Balmain Burger ($18) stands and delivers. This is classic Australiana: smoky, charred beef patty, sharp with grated beetroot and pickles, and freshened up with salad. More out there is the overly sweet and slightly dry Chargrilled Mahi Mahi ($26), with pineapple and quinoa salsa. For dessert, Salted Caramel Sliders ($12) are fluffy little ice cream buns with a nice hot-cold dynamic when dipped into the warm chocolate sauce. But beware; eat them quickly to avoid distressing sogginess. This is a solid pub menu, and the stand out dish reflects it - that’s one tasty burger.

74 Mullens Street, Balmain (02) 9810 7500 thebalmain.com Pub Bistro $$-$$$

bar fly

By Amie Barbeler

Keg & Brew Hearts might have sunk when news spread that the old KB Hotel was getting an American-themed refit, but the place has never looked better.While it’s still a no-nonsense inner city pub, the place now has a warm, southern feel to it, complete with cowboy-themed wallpaper, furry panels, beast heads and a random photo of Dolly Parton thrown in for good measure. Most excitingly though, the bar boasts one of Sydney’s largest collections of bourbon (over 30 types) and a rotating selection of 33 taps of craft beer. In true American style, the meals are hefty and heart stopping (read: delicious). My date and I hooked into a ten buck bowl of deep fried bacon (aka Big Tex Bacon Bites) before sharing a combo I’ve dubbed the Twhiskey:

deep fried Twinkies with chocolate fondue ($10), washed down with some Campfire Bourye Whiskey ($15.50). If it’s beer, bourbon and bites you’re after…

you’ll find ‘em in abundance here.

26 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills (02) 9212 1740 kegandbrew.com.au

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Summer of the Seventeenth Doll

SAMSON

Death is the destiny of every man and the living must take it to heart. Four teenagers – African,Asian,Anglo and Aboriginal respectively – are thrown together and torn apart by the death of a friend in a bogan-town backwater.Welcome to ‘Messville’. It sounds like another teen-angst melodrama but Samson, the Belvoir St Theatre’s latest production, somehow rises above the banal to achieve surprising levels of warmth and depth.

Amidst all the ‘fucks’ – and some of the dialogue contains nothing else – there is a fragile innocence to each character.The blossoming romance between Essie (Ashleigh Cummings) and the disarmingly beautiful Rabbit (Benjamin Creek) is both fraught and

joyous. Her frosty bravado is thawed by his tender humour. Beth (Belinda Jombwe) is seeking God, and Sid (Charles Wu) is seeking Beth but grief and guilt pervade.

The desert-like contours of the set almost engulf the small downstairs theatre space, creating a sense of audience immersion in the unfolding drama.Though not completely satisfying, the young cast bring energy and find beauty in the strangest places. (GW) Until May 31,Tuesday 7pm,Wednesday – Friday, 8:15pm, Saturday 2:15pm and 8:15pm, Sunday 5:15pm, Belvoir StTheatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills, $38-48, belvoir.com.au, 02 9699 3444.

2015 marks the 60th anniversary of the premiere of Ray Lawler’s Summer of the Seventeenth Doll, cementing the play as one of Australia’s most iconic pieces of theatre. Hot from finishing a successful season in Adelaide, the State Theatre of South Australia will be bringing the beloved classic to Sydney next week, along with artistic director Geordie Brookman.

In the well-known tale of love, hope and loss taking place during one unravelling Summer, a fragile cane cutter, Roo, is played by Chris Pitman. Garnering much praise for his performances in Adelaide, Pitman credits Australia’s unwavering love for the play to the timeless themes embedded within in it.

“I think it’s a very universal thing all over the

world,” Pitman says,“what it’s like to have to change in order to keep living well.”

It’s Lawler’s 1950’s themes which director, Brookman, aims to readdress 60 years on.Although Pitman says Brookman remained loyal to the original setting and script, his creative choices enabled for a modern day contextualisation of the play.“(Brookman) has teared back the play.We’ve removed a lot of clutter,” Pitman says,“He’s trying to expose the drama between the relationships on stage.” (CW) May 19 - 24, Glen Street Theatre, Belrose, $31- $71, tickets: http://tiny.cc/jgscyx, or phone (02) 9975 1455.

The Birdcage Photo: Denise Stopford

Call it the little production company that could. Ruby Productions, which has been mounting shows exclusively in Penrith for the past four years, is now set to dazzle Sydney audiences with their newest production, The Birdcage.

After a sell-out run in Penrith, directors Anthony Brown and Joanne King are set to bring the show to Glebe’s Roxbury Hotel.“It’s the first production that we’ve really taken on the road, so to speak,” says King.“It’s a very different venue, so it was a challenge...at Ruby we try to set ourselves new challenges. It’s all about learning new skills!”

They’ve certainly put that motto to work in adapting one of Robin Williams’ best beloved movies from screen to stage.“We’ve been true to the movie script,” says King,“but we’ve also added in some really fantastic dancing and drag queen acts and our choreographer is just fabulous.”

When asked what Sydney audiences and fans of the film can expect to see, King is quick to note:“They will definitely laugh, that’s for sure!” She goes on,“There’s a Robin Williams quote...‘You’re only given a little spark of madness, you mustn’t lose it!’ - and they can expect to see a spark of madness from us as well!” (SW) May 26th - 30th,The Roxbury Hotel, 182 St John’s Road, Glebe. $35,Tickets: www. trybooking.com/128423, (02) 4735 5422. (Additional tickets at the door, every night).

a&e

13 STAGE 16 SCENE 17 SCREEN 18 Sounds

Arts Editors: Jamie Apps - Alannah Maher Sub-Editor: Charlotte Foster For more A&E stories go to www.altmedia.net.au and don’t forget to join the conversation on Twitter at @AltMediaSydney

Contributors: Brendan Modini, Carmen Cita, Craig Coventry, Greg Webster, Hannah Chapman, Jacob Harrison, James Harkness, Lauren Bell, Leann Richards, Lisa Seltzer, Mark Morellini, Matthew Bernard, Mel Somerville, Michael Muir, Olgar Azar, Rocio Belinda Mendez, Sarah Pritchard, Sinead McLaughlin, Siri Williams

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Dogfight The newest production from Hayes Theatre Co comes all the way from Hollywood and the Great White Way. Dogfight, the tale of two people during the times of the Vietnam War, is a musical adapted from a film of the same name.The original film, starring River Phoenix and Lilli Taylor, was released in 1991.

The Australian production is directed by Neil Gooding and uses the Broadway adaptation for the show.With music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, it is based off the book by Peter Duchan. Dogfight tells the story of Corporal Eddie Birdlace who meets Rose, a waitress, on his final night out before he is deployed in 1963. It tells the story of a cruel bet gone wrong and how the characters choose to view their lives during this time. Eddie Birdlace and Rose Fenny are played by Luigi Lucente and Hilary Cole. (LB) May 1 - 31 2015,The Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point.Tuesday Saturday 7:30pm, Saturday 2pm, Sunday 5pm. $42-$48.

Tickets and info: www. hayestheatre.com.au/comingsoon/dogfight.html

Bitch Boxer Katherine Shearer comes out swinging in Bitch Boxer, an inspiring one-woman show making its NSW debut at the Old 505 Theatre.

She was so inspired by English playwright Charlotte Josephine’s “heart-warming, energetic” script that it didn’t take her long to approach for the rights to produce and act in her own production.

Based on the true event of women being allowed to compete in Olympic boxing for the first time ever in the 2012 Olympics, Katherine explained that Josephine’s script is less about boxing and more about “women doing something that was outside the norm of their expectations”.

The audience meets Chloe in the hour before the qualifying fight that will decide whether she will make it into the Olympics, and joins her on a journey exploring her life, relationships and the circumstances that led her to discover boxing as an

outlet to express herself and channel her anger.

Shearer has faced arduous challenges in order to portray Chloe.Aside from a yearlong boxing fitness regime to achieve the lean build and energy of a boxer (that was stepped up in the past few months thanks to training with 51kg NSW boxing champion Eleanor Boden); she has also had to develop a rough East London accent and made a surprisingly difficult adjustment to performing solo for the first time.

In what she describes as “a character that as female actors, we don’t get to play all that often”, Shearer brings wholehearted passion and dedicated preparation to a genuinely dynamic female role.“It won’t be what people expect.” (AM) May 26 – 31,The Old 505Theatre, Suite 505, 342 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills, $22-$33, tickets: http://www.trybooking.com/HKPT

REVIEW:

The School For Scandal The New Theatre Company’s production of The School For Scandal wanted to rework the 18th century comedy of manners into the modern age. The supposed aim was to discuss society’s obsession with the lifestyles of the rich and the famous. A veneer of gossip magazine and reality TV aesthetic has been slapped on, and an occasional rap music reference worked in. There are lots of shopping bags, high heels and some almost slapstick moments.

The re-imagining is mostly at the surface level. The predominantly young cast tackle their parts enthusiastically with affected aristocratic annunciations, and much swanning about. While there are some funny moments, I think there is potential for a more interesting re-imagining of this story. (HC) WW½ April 28 – May 30,Thursday – Saturday 7pm, Sunday 5.30pm. New Theatre Company, 542 King St, Newtown. $17-32, bookings: www.newtheatre.org.au

THEATRE & PERFORMANCE All That Jazz: Jam Nights at the World Bar The World Bar has a strongly grounded reputation as one of Kings Cross’ most popular weekend venues for drinking and dancing. However, there is more to this unique venue than dance music and teapot cocktails.Ankle down on a Monday evening and you’ll discover one of the Sydney jazz and Latin music communities best kept secrets.The weekly Latin & Jazz Open Mic Jam Sessions are a welcoming place 14

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where anyone and everyone can come along to enjoy some timeless Jazz standards, whether they are performing or observing..Whether you plan on taking the stage or not, you can enjoy the open atmosphere in the venue’s main bar (front room) where the doors open onto the terrace and the standing piano is rolled out. In the colder months you can enjoy the ambiance of a roaring fire.A diverse lot of performers take the stage every week – from students of the Australian Institute of Music, to former X-Factor contestants and regulars like Valda, a spritely woman in her nineties who plays a mean French horn.This regular event fosters the

HIJINKS Fifteen Minutes Of Fame Party HIJINKS’ latest party project is about to hit Sydney once again.

Dubbed the “Fifteen Minutes of Fame” party, guests are encouraged to dress up as their favourite celebrities and experience their extravagant lifestyles for a night.

“At HIJINKS we basically take over popular venues and re-imagine them as after-hours high ground and popup bars for grown-ups… We’ve decided this time to shamelessly embrace the superficial nature of celebrity culture,” said event organiser Matt Ravier.

Hosted at Madame Tussauds in Sydney’s Darling Harbour, guests can expect a great variety of entertainment on the night. With acts including a Katy Perry tribute show by Pickled Tink, a Marilyn

artistic side of the city’s musical community, free of cover charge. Even if you’re just looking for somewhere to enjoy a fine glass of wine on a Monday evening, it’s worth a look. If you’d like to join the ‘cats’ on stage, all you need to do is call or email your sheet music and/or ideas to latinjazz@theworldbar.com up to the day of the jam session, and the jazz house band will prepare to accompany you. (AM) Every Monday, 6-11pm at The World Bar, 24 Bayswater Road Potts Point.

FREE. WIZARD OF OZ REINVENTED The red shoes, the tin man, sweet evocations of

Monroe drag show by Decoda Secret, stand-up comedy from Sam Kissajukian, a chorus girl show by the much loved Big Spenders, an Elvis impersonation by Nick Nicolas and even a workshop to learn to dance like Beyoncé, it is sure to be a night to remember.

Kicking off at 6:30pm on Friday the 29th of May, all guests are treated to a complimentary beverage upon entry. Be sure to come along, for in the words of Ravier: “It’s going to be big, it’s going to be loud and it’s going to be a lot of fun.” (MB) May 29, Madame Tussauds, Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour, $25 Entry (includes complimentary beverage), tickets and info: www.hijinkssydney.com

childhood escape that easily translate into adult anxieties;“Wizard of Oz” has taken on mythic proportions in the collective psyche. Belvoir Theatre’s co-resident director Adena Jacobs is exploring the undercurrents of the book and film adaptation in her wild and unexpected take on Oz. A.M Baum’s 1939 work was ostensibly a story for children, but a closer look reveals hints of creepiness and confusion. Jacob’s “dreamscape” Oz is where the collective psyche understands the tropes of the collective imagination to bring audiences somewhere else and perhaps far from the fabled yellow brick road.

Note:This is a show for adults.

May 2–31, Belvoir St Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills, $50-72, 9699 3444, belvoir.com.au THE SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL The original School for Scandal may have been created in the 18th century, but it would seem that society still places wealth on a skyhigh pedestal. Our world of Illuminati and industries based on over-sharing the life details of celebrities is surely comparable to the upper class of Richard Brinsley Sheridan’s time.

“Isabella Andronos, our designer and I spent a disgusting amount of time looking at Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton, and Rich Kids of Instagram…

we looked at people worshipped for their wealth and that as the basis for our aesthetic.Think wasteful, always on their iPhones, wearing Gucci,” explains David Burrowes,“I think we are stuck – because we always are driving for this wealth.There’s an attitude that we should never be satisfied; we can always do better, get more money. Celebrities are what we want them to be, then when we look at them under a microscope they’re nothing to aspire to.”

28 April – 30 May,Thursday – Saturday 7pm, Sunday 5.30pm.

New Theatre Company, 542 King St, Newtown. $17-32, bookings at www.newtheatre.org.au

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T H E NA K E D C ITY

THE REAL SURPLUS – OPEN FOR BUSINESS!

By Coffin Ed and Miss Death and Jay Katz After WWII the Australian Government offloaded a massive amount of military equipment in a giant fire sale – everything from heavy army vehicles to boots and catering equipment. Many of the smaller items ended up in so called ‘war surplus stores’ which proliferated in Australia for decades to come.Whilst the stores continued to stock some ex-military gear, they soon expanded to sell everything from jeans and duffle coats to sleeping bags and tents.

They still exist today, but nowhere in the numbers they did back in the 70s and 80s when Stolliar Bros at 752a George St, Sydney, was a city institution, beloved by any buyer of Doc Marten boots or camouflage hats.All last week we had treasurer Joe Hockey trying to sell us on

the idea of a ‘surplus’, somewhere down the line, but what we really need is a surplus now. It may seem a tenuous collection but a genuine retail opportunity for the cash strapped Government awaits in every city and suburb across the country.

Australian Government Surplus Stores, staffed by the long term unemployed, would be stocked with everything that the Government deems ‘surplus’ or might be considering flogging off to replenish the coffers.When the hideous detention centres on Nauru and Manus are finally shut down (we can only hope), we’ll have thousands of camp tents, rolls of barbwire and cooking pots to dispose.As a gesture of reconciliation the Government might even consider allowing the refugees it has exiled to Cambodia to return and help run these stores, imparting cheery anecdotes of human suffering as they flog off camp beds and reconditioned portaloos.

We wouldn’t stop at detention camp surplus, and the Government should be totally ruthless when it comes to selling off the ‘farm’, so to speak. Clear out the PM’s houses in Canberra and Sydney of any unnecessary bric’a’brac, cutlery and tacky gifts from foreign leaders. He seldom stays there and could shack up at the AFP Training College again, for the remainder of his term.The same applies to his stockpile of spurious knighthood gongs, like the one delivered to the Duke of Edinburgh. Straight to the disposal stores along with the portrait of Joko Widodo from the National Portrait Gallery.

Get the picture? We’re not just cashing in on the poles and wires.We’re stripping the Federal Government of any fat and excess whatever and selling it off to the public.

And it’s not all about the current LNP coalition. Labor has left us a legacy of thousands of ‘surplus’ (there’s that word again) pink batts, which could surely go on sale as

an opening special complete with a special endorsement from Peter Garrett.

Once we finally decide that interfering in the politics of foreign countries like Iraq is highly questionable, we’ll have a massive flood of ex-military gear to add to the inventory. If we can persuade the current generation of bearded hipsters that balaclavas, army boots and night vision goggles are an essential accessory then we are in for a real economic boom.Australia – the surplus awaits you!

THE HIT LIST: Pianist Bridie King delivers some very funky soul and blues grooves at the atmospheric Lord Wolseley Hotel in Ultimo this Saturday 23 May. Joining Bridie will be master percussionist Samila Sithole and vocal legend Pat Powell. If you have yet to experience the vibe of Australia’s narrowest pub with some very hip music, then this is one trip you need to make.

Stanley Donwood: The Panic Office As the days grow progressively shorter and Sydney-Siders ease into another mild winter, hearts are warmed by the thought of another Vivid Festival fast approaching. As part of the Vivid and Semi-Permanent Festivals, Carriageworks is hosting Stanley Donwood’s interactive and retrospective exhibition, The Panic Office.

Donwood’s work is at times playfully irreverent, while other works evoke dark and visceral emotions. A range of his paintings, prints and drawings spanning the past 25 years will be on display. Fans of the 90’s Alternative Rock scene are invited to take an angst-ridden journey down memory lane; Stanley Donwood has worked with Radiohead since 1994, designing the group’s album covers and all associated artwork. The exhibition will display thousands of pieces of artwork from Radiohead albums, as well as original works, all bearing Donwood’s evocative and haunting imagery that has helped to create one of the world’s most distinctive brands.

Semi-Permanent ticket holders have exclusive access from Thursday 21 Saturday 23 May, including the opening launch party on Thursday 21 May, at which Stanley Donwood will be in attendance. (JH) Opens to public May 24 – 6 June 2015,The Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh, FREE. pyrmont festival highlights HUB CLUB POP UP PARTY Enjoy Mudgee wine and Pyrmont food at this POP UP event in support of Sydney’s local media and the push for additional open space in Pyrmont, as part of the Fifth Annual Pyrmont Festival.Wine has been donated by the Mudgee Grape Growers Association with all proceeds going to the City Hub’s crowd funding campaign. Support 16

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Sydney’s last independent community newspaper and learn about a new community campaign to champion much needed additional open space in Pyrmont at Ballaarat Park.

Thursday 21 May 2015, 6pm-9pm, Signorelli Gastronomia, Ground Floor of Accenture/Google Building,Trouton Place, Pyrmont, free entry.

FLYING FISH DEGUSTATION Flying Fish Restaurant & Bar invites you along to enjoy a four-course

A Writer’s Guide to The Sydney Writers’ Festival Monday May 18 marked the start of The Sydney Writers’ Festival, with over 400 Australian and 45 international writers set to entertain and stir the expected 60,000+ festival attendees. Taking place at 350 events from Hornsby in the North to Wollongong in the South and Katoomba in the west, writers and other malcontents try to make sense of our world with this year’s theme: How To Live? Mohsin Hamid and Helen Macdonald will attempt to elucidate at the opening and closing nights respectively, other highlighted sessions include Starlee Kine, Norman Doidge, Rebecca Vaughan and James Patterson.

Walsh Bay will be a hive of activity; Coffee and Papers is back at The Bar at the End of the Wharf, a journalist and a writer will tackle the headlines of the day. Come nightfall the Hemmingway Bar will serve signature writers cocktails and live music till late. Family Day is on Sunday May 24 at The Big Backyard at Pier 2/3, imaginations can run wild with book readings from Enid Blyton, Minecraft story-building workshops and much more. The Writers’ Festival represents good value; with many free sessions and most ticketed sessions between $15 – $40, even writers can afford to attend, but get in quick as places are limited. (JH) May 18 – 24, various locations throughout Greater Sydney.

Information and bookings: www.swf.org.au degustation menu carefully paired with Huntington Estate wines from the Mudgee region. Set over two levels at the very end of Pyrmont’s historic Jones Bay Wharf, the restaurant boasts spectacular harbour views, a coveted Chef’s Hat and a rustic interior that celebrates the site’s industrial-maritime heritage, Flying Fish is headed up by Stephen Seckold, who delivers an innovative menu that flows with the seasons and constantly surprises the palate.

Friday 22 May 2015, Jones Bay Wharf, 19/21 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont. $120pp.

Bookings essential: 02 9518 6677 BLUE EYE DRAGON BANQUET Pyrmont’s award winning Blue Eye Dragon restaurant invites you along for an extraordinary 10 course Taiwanese banquet paired with wine matches from Mudgee’s Gooree Park Wines. It’s about time you experienced the longstanding tradition of Taiwanese hospitality with a distinct personal touch by

restauranteur Muriel Chen at Pyrmont’s ‘hidden gem’.Their pork and chive dumplings are to die for.

Saturday 23 May 2015, 37 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont, $80pp, Bookings essential: 02 9518 9955 or SMS: 0488 765 555 LuMi DEGUSTATION Quickly establishing itself as one of Sydney’s most stunning dining experiences since opening late last year, LuMi Bar & Dining invites you along to a Sunday long lunch like no other. Choose

between the five and eight course degustation menus, featuring their signature Italian dishes served up with Japanese influences, and matching wines from esteemed Mudgee wine maker David Lowe. Described a ‘light box’, the restaurant features 180 degree sliding glass doors opening up to an absolute waterfront location.

Sunday 24 May 2015, 56 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, 5 courses: $130pp, 8 courses: $175pp, Bookings essential: 02 9571 1999

The Cut This historical drama is written, produced and directed by Fatih Akin, an award winning German film maker of Turkish origin. Set in 1915, the story focuses on a man’s (Tahar Rahim) desperate search for his daughters after surviving the Armenian genocide in the Ottoman Empire.

A grand scale production which spans 6 years, this film will take audiences on an emotional journey, as he travels the deserts of Havana to Lebanon and ultimately traverses the seas to America.

Shocking scenes of violence and massacres are essential to the story and effectively highlight the horrors of war, but may horrify sensitive viewers.

This remarkable story of courage, determination and the resilience of the human spirit is engaging and resonates the importance of family. (MMo) WWW1/2 May 21 & 25, Chauvel Cinema, $19.50. Information & Tickets: goethe.de/ozfilmfest

Human Rights Arts and Film Festival For the eighth year in a row, the Human Rights Art and Film Festival (HRAFF) exhibits an amazing selection of contemporary work in cinema, art and public forums. The 2015 HRAFF program showcases 31 feature films, 18 shorts, 5 exhibitions, and 15 forums. Among them for the first time will be talk show The Breakfast Sessions.

“Theres a range of genuinely important discussions that are happening now, in general, and we thought we should be involved in that discussion. –– So, we put together four sessions on particularly relevant topics.” Says Festival Program Director Malcolm Blaylock.

Introducing the most outstanding international films and artwork, the HRAFF will definitely move, inspire and challenge audiences no matter their walk of life. “The purpose of the festival is to present people with some really interesting and thoughtful narratives. Audiences will be forced to

INFINI This ambitious Australian sci-fi film is set in the 23rd Century.When a catastrophic accident occurs on a mining station in outer space, a rescue team is deployed to save lone survivor Whit Carmichael (Daniel MacPherson), but a deadly alien force awaits.This respectable deep space disaster film is obviously filmed on a smaller budget than its Hollywood counterparts, but is equally as suspenseful and frightening. Immaculate sets, impressive CGI and good performances from a talented cast should allure and satisfy sci-fi enthusiasts.This film will be readily available digitally from May 8 on many platforms including iTunes, Google Play, Quickflix,Telstra, Foxtel On Demand and Dendy Direct. (MMo) WWW STATIONS OF THE CROSS Audiences will be confronted by this intense German drama, which is unconventionally filmed in fourteen long shots at fixed angles.

Maria (Lea Van Acken) is a fourteen-year-old girl who comes from a conservative family who

think about things in a slightly different way, and be affected by the stories that they hear,” explained Blaylock.

Opening the festival with an immensely powerful Australian documentary dealing with the rape of Charlotte Campbell Stephen ‘I Will Not Be Silenced’, and closing with Australian premiere of Mano Khalil’s intimate story of immigrant Ibrahim Gezer ‘The Beekeeper’–– this festival is exceptionally ripe with talent, ideas, and storytelling, all the while using our human rights as the root.

“It’s a festival that tells remarkable, wonderful stories that will inspire people to gain a different perspective of the world.” (RM) May 26-30, $14-17, mini-pass $72, 261-263 King Street, Newtown, Dendy Cinema Newtown, hraff.org.au

have an unparalleled devotion to their Christian faith, bordering on bizarre and radical. She believes that to reach heaven she must endure the fourteen Stations Of The Cross as Jesus did on his path to death.This coming-of-age film is sombre with long monologues, and highlights that obsessive faith can lead to extremist beliefs as it consumes and depersonalizes.

Prevalent themes including religious tolerance, bullying and the hypocrisies of the church translate into an extremely powerful and controversial film. (MMo) May 13-31, Chauvel Cinema & Norton Street, $19.50, Bookings: Information & Tickets: goethe. de/ozfilmfest WWWW CLOUDS OF SILS MARIA This German-French-Swiss coproduction is a brilliantly written and intense drama which focuses on an actress’s emotional upheaval once she has signed on for the resurrection of a stage play. Many viewers will be exhausted by the depth in themes and perplexed by the complexities in characterizations and storylines,

but lovers of fine cinema should be absorbed and challenged by these intricacies.

Beautifully filmed in the stunning and remote regions of the Alps, this is a performance driven film with the talents of three exceptional actresses also including Kristen Stewart. (MMo) WWWW HUMPBACK WHALES 3D Audiences join the expedition as scientists traverse the oceans of the world in search of humpback whales and make new discoveries about their feeding and mating habits.Narrated by Ewan McGregor, this documentary which is exclusively filmed in the 70mm IMAX format for giant screens is insightful and educational.

In all its grandeur, this production translates to an exhilarating and rewarding experience for the entire family. (MMo) IMAX, Darling Harbour, $17 – $23, imax.com.au WWWW KUMIKO,THE TREASURE HUNTER This drama explores the ideal that obsession can lead

to disillusionment and a slow path to self-destruction.

Kumiko (Rinko Kikuchi) is depressed and lives a lonely and mundane life in Tokyo. Upon viewing a discarded copy of the 1996 film Fargo, she obsesses over the illusion that the hidden fortune exists and embarks on a desperate search to America. She loses touch with reality and ultimately fantasy leads to danger.

Comic elements are welcoming and stem from the delightful and quirky characters Kumiko meets on her journey.

Beautifully filmed, especially scenes in the frozen Minnesota wilderness, this film thrives from its originality. (MMo) WWW½ SUNDAY Sunday opens on what appears to be a couple in a physical and emotional paradise.

This atmosphere is soon completely shattered; we have been watching a flashback. No longer a couple and separated by distance, Australian Charlie (Dustin Clare) arrives in Christchurch hoping to win back Eve (Camille Keenan) and contend

with the arrival of what usually is considered a bundle of joy.

Throughout the film we are not treated to grandiose scenes of adventurous and comedic wooing but instead revel in the reality of the characters situation. It is easy to relate to them because the actors play them with such honesty, we often find ourselves siding with one but also understanding the motives of the other.

Shot in an earthquake ravaged Christchurch; the terrain also adds an element of either hope or impending disaster.You’ll just have to find out! (BM) WWW MONGOLIAN BLING What happens when western influence meets eastern tradition, well you get Mongolian Hip hop. Australian Documentary filmmaker Benj Banks has unearthed a thriving musical scene that few knew existed in his film Mongolian Bling.

Mongolian Bling primarily follows three differing hip hop artists. Just like the music itself the film also shines a light on the social and political conditions in Mongolia.

However it is the celebration of history and tradition included that is most refreshing from an audience point of view.The musical youth of Mongolia are not motivated by “big cribs and cars” but by educating and celebrating the past.

An accomplished film on a world that few knew existed. (BM) WWW BANKSY DOES NEW YORK Banksy is one of the most controversial artists in the world today, yet no one knows who he is.

In October 2013, Banksy covertly took to the streets of New York to create a series of public artworks, chased along the way by the NYPD who wanted to arrest him, and members of the public who wanted to know who he really was, and profit from stealing his art.

Filmed without Banksy’s original knowledge, or his assistance, Banksy Does New York has brought the artist’s residency to a wider audience, and accesses the pulsating hub of the city itself. (LS) Playing exclusively at the Dendy Theatre Newtown from Apr 23 city hub 21 may 2015

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Sydney Live Music Guide LIVE WIRE

By Jamie Apps Sally King & Sametribe: A veteran of the Sydney blues scene renowned for her soulful vocals and powerful performances, Sally King is set to bring up-tempo blues to Petersham with her band Sametribe, consisting of Paul Berton on guitar, David Green on bass and Matt Brooke on drums.

Thu, May 21, Petersham Bowling Club Onra: The Parisian producer and Red Bull Music Academy alumnus is set to perform in the May edition of the free Red Bull Music Academy Club Night series.The globe-trotting beat maker has staked his claim as one of the most exciting producers of the past few years with his unique open-minded approach, taking inspiration from all genres and eras.

Fri, May 22, Sydney Opera House Lurch & Chief: The chaotic-psych six-piece from Melbourne hit Sydney this week for their national tour supporting sophomore EP Breathe.

Originally formed in 2012 as a creative outlet for a group of close friends the band has since risen to prominence thanks to support from Triple J. Fri, May 22, Newtown Social Club The Jungle Giants: Returning home from an international tour through Asia,The Jungle Giants don’t look to be slowing down anytime soon.

Arriving in Sydney this weekend with

Ruby Boots

their Every Kind Of Way single support tour, the band is set to play some old favourites and a teaser of tracks from their forthcoming album due out in August.

Sat, May 23, Oxford Art Factory

By jamie apps Hot off a stellar 2014 and continuing to ride the wave of momentum in 2015 Ruby Boots, aka Bex Chilcott, arrives in Sydney to launch her debut album Solitude.The winner the West Australian Music (WAM) Country Song of The Year for her single Wrap Me In A Fever, Chilcott’s star is certainly on the rise.

Far from your cookie-cutter standard fare that country music fans are used to, Bex is unafraid to let her emotions and spirit shine through in her music:“What is coming out is from my heart and my soul…it just happens really naturally and I think that’s the way it should be with art, right?” She explained when speaking about her passion and drive.

Carrying this philosophy into recording for the album Bex decided not to record the

Mathas: Perth’s multi-faceted rapper refuses to be constrained by the typical boundaries of pure hip-hop with his talented songwriting, production and performance. Having taken his mesmerising solo live show out on the road in October last year, he is now at it once again to celebrate his latest single Free Shit (ft. Diem & Mei Saraswati).

Sat, May 23,The Basement Bridie King: Yet another of the driving forces behind Sydney’s blues scene will also be performing this weekend. Bridie will take the audience on a musical journey via her piano, organ and piano-accordion through the many different regions associated with blues and roots music.

Sat, May 23, Lord Wolseley Hotel Joanna Weinberg: Returning following popular demand with her Baroness Bianka’s Bloodsongs musical theatre performance.The show is a compelling tale of an addict battling one of the weirdest addictions in town.

Note this is an adults only show.

Sun, May 24, Camelot Lounge

entire body of work in the one location, rather she spread the process across multiple studios in three different continents.

Obviously this raised its own set of challenges but ultimately Bex feels it was a beneficial experience for both herself and the record.“I think it’s great that I’ve got to share fond memories with so many great people and had so many different approaches, input and flair on the record,” she said. During the recording process Bex was able to collaborate with the likes of Vicki

Thorne, Davey Lane, Jordie Lane, Bill Chambers and Lee Jones which she said was another really important factor on the end product:“for me collaborating is the key because it can get you out of your own head, and funk if you’re in one. It really opens up new ideas and new approaches, so working with everyone was a very special experience.”

The excitement was palpable when asked how she was feeling ahead of the shows:“I’ve been on tour as duo and last year I did 100 shows, with a lot of those being solo, so as you can imagine having my full band on the road with me is something I’ve really been looking forward to.”

Joining Ruby Boots on the night will be another alternative-country outfit in Melbourne’s Raised By Eagles who will be launching their new LP Diamonds In The Bloodstream.The quartet have truly raised the bar with their second release and are excited to play the songs live.

May 21, Newtown Social Club, 387 King St, Newtown, $15+b.f, newtownsocialclub.com

Raised By Eagles - Diamonds In The Bloodstream

Darren Hanlon – Where did you come from?

Do you repeat what worked before, or do you evolve? Thankfully, Raised By Eagles found the perfect mix with this venture.

Moving towards a more lyrical and story driven approach, but maintaining enough of a homage to their alt-country rock roots, the Melbourne quartet has nailed it here. (JA)

Pressing play on Darren Hanlon’s newest album, listeners will be greeted by simple, descriptive words in his unaffected voice along with the constant presence of a musical metronome. Poetic and clear, the lyrics build images for the listener.

The thirteen tracks have a constancy of tempo and feeling, that calms the listener and calls their attention without demanding it. (SP) WW1/2

WWWW

FREEWILLASTROLOGY

by Rob Brezsny

a

ARIES (March 21-April 19): James McNeil Whistler was an influential painter in the latter half of the 19th century.

He advocated the “art for art’s sake” credo, insisting that the best art doesn’t need to teach or moralize. As far as he was concerned, its most important purpose was to bring forth “glorious harmony” from chaos.

But the immediate reason I’m nominating him to be your patron saint for the coming weeks is the stylized signature he created: an elegant butterfly with a long tail that was actually a stinger. I think you’ll thrive by embodying that dual spirit: being graceful, sensitive, and harmonious and yet also feisty, piquant, and provocative.

Can you manage that much paradox? I think you can.

b

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Renowned author George Bernard Shaw was secure in his feeling that he did good work. He didn’t need the recognition of others to validate his self-worth. The British Prime Minister offered him a knighthood, but he refused it. When he found out he had been awarded a Nobel Prize for Literature, he wanted to turn it down but his wife convinced him to accept it. The English government also sought to give him the prestigious Order of Merit, but he rejected it, saying, “I have already conferred this order upon myself.” He’s your role model for right now, 18

city hub 21 may 2015

Taurus. Congratulate yourself for your successes, whether or not anyone else does.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “Aha!” is your mantra for the coming weeks, Gemini.

Keep it on the tip of your tongue, ready to unleash. This always-ready-to-be-surprisedby-inspiration attitude will train you to expect the arrival of wonders and marvels. And that will be an effective way to actually attract wonders and marvels! With “Aha!” as your talisman, all of your wake-up calls will be benevolent, and all of the chaos you encounter -- or at least most of it -- will be fertile.

C

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Do you chronically indulge in feelings of guilt?

Do you berate yourself for the wrong turns and sad mistakes you made in the past? These behaviors may be sneaky ways of avoiding change. How can you summon enough energy to transform your life if you’re wallowing in worries and regrets? In presenting the possibility that you might be caught in this trap, I want you to know that I’m not sitting in judgment of you. Not at all. Like you, I’m a Cancerian, and I have periodically gotten bogged down in the very morass I’m warning you against. The bad news is that right now you are especially susceptible to falling under this spell. The good news is that right now you have extra power to break this spell.

d

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In the TV comedy-drama Jane the Virgin, the fictional character known as Rogelio de la Vega is a vain but lovable actor who performs in telenovelas. “I’m very easy to dress,” he tells the wardrobe supervisor of a new show he’ll be working on. “Everything looks good on me. Except for peach. I don’t pop in peach.”

What he means is that his charisma doesn’t radiate vividly when he’s wearing peachcolored clothes. Now I want to ask you, Leo: What don’t you pop in? I’m not simply talking about the color of clothes that enable you to shine, but everything else, too. In the coming weeks, it’s crucial that you surround yourself with influences that make you pop.

e

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Are you willing to entertain an outlandish possibility?

Here’s my vision: You will soon be offered unexpected assistance, either through the machinations of a “guardian angel” or the messy blessings of a shape-shifting spirit. This divine intervention will make it possible for you to demolish a big, bad obstacle you’ve been trying to find a way around.

Even if you have trouble believing in the literal factuality of my prophecy, here’s what I suspect: It will at least come true in a metaphorical sense -- which is the truest kind of truth of all.

f

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): “Glory” is the theme song of the film Selma. It’s an anthem about the ongoing struggle for equal rights by African Americans. I want to borrow one of its lines for your use in the coming weeks: “Freedom is like a religion to us.” I think those will be good words for you to live by. Are you part of a group that suffers oppression and injustice? Are you mixed up in a situation that squashes your self-expression?

Are you being squelched by the conditioned habits of your own unconscious mind? It’s high time to rebel. The quest for liberation should be your spiritual calling.

g

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): If you’re planning on breaking a taboo, sneaking into a forbidden zone, or getting intimate with an edge-dweller, don’t tell boastful stories about what you’re doing. For now, secrecy is not only sexy; it’s a smart way to keep you safe and effective. Usually I’m fond of you telling the whole truth. I like it when you reveal the nuanced depths of your feelings. But right now I favor a more cautious approach to communication. Until your explorations have progressed further, I suggest that you only discuss them sparingly. As you put your experiments in motion, share the details on a need-toknow basis.

h

i

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): There are many

possible ways to create and manage a close relationship.

Here’s one of my favorite models: when two independent, self-responsible souls pledge to help each other activate the best versions of themselves. If you don’t have a partnership like this, the near future will be a favorable time to find one.

And if you already do have an intimate alliance in which the two of you synergize each other’s quest for individuation, the coming weeks could bring you breathtaking breakthroughs.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): It’s a challenge to drive a car through Canada’s far north. For example, if you want to get from Dawson in the Yukon Territory to Inuvik in the Northwest Territory, you take Dempster Highway. It’s gravel road for the entire 417mile trip, so the ride is rough.

Bring a spare tire and extra gasoline, since there’s just one service station along the way.

On the plus side, the scenery is thrilling. The permafrost in the soil makes the trees grow in odd shapes, almost like they’re drunk. You can see caribou, wolverines, lynx, bears, and countless birds. Right now, the sun is up 20 hours every day. And the tundra? You’ve never seen anything like it. Even if you don’t make a trip like this, Capricorn, I’m guessing you will soon embark on a metaphorically similar version.

With the right attitude and preparation, you will have fun

j

and grow more courageous.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian author James Joyce wrote Ulysses, one of the most celebrated and influential novels of the 20th century. The narrative is both experimental and tightly structured. Its chaotic streamof-consciousness passages are painstakingly crafted.

(Anyone who wonders how the astrological sign of Aquarius can be jointly ruled by the rebellious planet Uranus and the disciplinarian planet Saturn need only examine this book for evidence.) Joyce claimed he labored over *Ulysses* for 20,00 hours. That’s the equivalent of devoting eight hours a day, 350 days a year, for over seven years. Will you ever work that hard and long on a project, Aquarius? If so, now would be an auspicious time to start.

k

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The English writer and caricaturist Max Beerbohm moved away from his native land when he was 37 years old. He settled in Rapallo, Italy, where he lived for much of the rest of his life. Here’s the twist: When he died at age 83, he had still not learned to speak Italian.

For 40 years, he used his native tongue in his foreign home.

This is a failing you can’t afford to have in the coming months, Pisces. The old proverb “When in Rome, do as the Romans,” has never been so important for you to observe.

l

Kings Court Massage Kings Court is the only place to have twenty two massage rooms and eleven hot tubs, spas, and bubble baths.

Wall to wall beautiful ladies, pool tables and luxurious leather lounges. You can have a coffee and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.

Approachable managers help you choose a lady for your massage. There is a fair queing system and no hidden charges or credit card fees. We are just along from Central Railway at 261 Broadway Glebe, Sydney NSW 2037 Phone 02 9660 0666 Its a $10.00 Taxi Ride from the CBD Visit our web site at

www.kingscourt.com.au We are open 9 am to 1 am and 24 hours on Weekends. There is a 20% discount from 9 am to 12 noon & FREE ENTRY before 9 pm each day. After 9pm there is a $20 entry fee that protects the massage ladies from dealing with callers who are not genuine.

Two hours free parking is available in the Broadway Shopping Centre near our discreet rear entrance at 18 Grose St Glebe. Check out the website for information, funny stuff and pictures of pretty women. There are no photos of the regular girls as they are too shy. We don’t provide full service.

Also check out Big John’s Facebook to see a mixture of really funny pics, photos, stories and links to the best pages of our website. This is updated regularly:

www.facebook.com/KingsBigJohn

Kings Court Massage: Where the first time customer can meet the first time massage girl!

VACANCIES Kings Court is the best place to learn adult massage. You can work with us part time or casual

and you are paid cash daily. Work times can suit students or young mothers. When you start we get one of the regular girls to show you how to do your first massage.We have off street parking for ladies with cars and for your interview you can park in the Broadway Shopping Centre near our discreet rear entry with two hours free parking. The 18 Grose Street Glebe NSW 2037 address is the best way to find us using GPS plotting. Ring us on 02 9660 0666. Some ladies from out of town stay over when they visit. We have the bestest and sweetest customers of any place. The website is www.kingscourt.com.au On the home page have a look at, “Is this your first time” and see the ten tips that help customers to understand how we do business and how they must behave towards our girls.

Hi, this is Big John the owner of Kings Court Massage.

This week we have another recurring story where St James tries to figure out where the boys are going for fun. As usual we see how things don’t work out for him due to his personality of being not nice.

It is interesting how things have changed over the twenty years since this full page colour advert was produced. The mobile phones have become smaller and you don’t hear people talking rubbish on them as much. Back then having a mobile phone was a big ego trip for some guys.

I hope you have enjoyed seeing our big colour ads. Why not reward yourself and have a nice spa followed by a hot oil massage sometime during the cold weather.

We are now open every day until Christmas.

The best new thing we have at the moment is all the really funny stuff on our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/KingsBigJohn

city hub 21 may 2015

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Kids Karnival @ PADDY’S MARKETS FLEMINGTON SUNDAY 24 MAY Despicable Me 2 is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC. All Rights Reserved.

SA M K Y B D IC E H O S T ! F RO M N N G N O MOR AS PL AY AL !

JR.’ ITH SAM W

Sorry, Jimmy Giggle won’t be able to make it on the day as he’s busy fixing the magic button!

© Australian Broadcasting Corporation 2015.

© 2015 Viacom Overseas Holdings C.V.

SESSION 1: 11.00AM – 1.0OPM SESSION 2: 1.30PM – 3.3OPM FREE SHOWS • FREE PARKING

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