City Hub 23 April 2020 by Alt Media

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APRIL 23, 2020

PYRMONT PLACES

THE CHANGING FACE OF PYRMONT NSW government and private consortiums are presenting development plans for Pyrmont’s future BY ALLISON HORE yrmont through the ages has had many faces. The face of Pyrmont today looks very different to the Pyrmont that was a working class port, and the derelict Pyrmont scarred by decades of quarrying of the 1980s. Over the 1990s Pyrmont was the focus of intensive urban renewal projects under the Better Cities Program. Warehouses were revamped, parks and harbourside walkways constructed, and the Star Casino, the National Maritime Museum and the Powerhouse Museum were built, creating the Pyrmont Sydney-siders know well today. In 2017, the population of the Pyrmont and Ultimo area reached almost 25,000 residents, making the Pyrmont peninsula the 3rd most densely populated suburb in Australia. According to property research firm CoreLogic, the median price of units in Pyrmont is a whopping $929,308.

TRANSFORMATIONS

But the Pyrmont peninsula is due for another big face-lift. Over 2020 the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment and the City of Sydney are working to develop a new “Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy”. In September 2019, the NSW Government released their findings from the Greater Sydney Commission’s controversial review of planning protocols in Pyrmont. The review determined that a place-based approach must be implemented for planning procedures to be “fit for purpose”. State premier Gladys Berejiklian said that this placebased approach to planning would be instrumental in transforming the Pyrmont peninsula into “the next jobs hub.” The ten “Directions for the Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy”, released in March, give an overview of how this strategy will be implemented. NSW Planning minister, Rob Stokes, said that all stakeholders working together with a

Sydney city skyline from Pyrmont, 1900. Photo: Supplied by City of Sydney

“shared vision”, through these directions, would further transform Pyrmont. “Pyrmont is already home to tens of thousands of jobs, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sydney and is a much loved home for many residents,” Mr. Stokes said. The ten directions include a focus on development that “complements

or enhances” the area, creating jobs and industry “of the future”, providing more (and greener) public space for workers, residents and visitors to meet and move around, and a respect for the heritage value. The directions also call for a more “unified” planning framework. Continued on page 2

THE CHANGING FACE OF PYRMONT OTHER PLANS AFOOT

Even before the Pyrmont Place Strategy is finalised, major development proposals have been flooding in. It was the Star Casino’s tower proposal which sparked the Greater Sydney Commission’s investigation into planning protocols in the first place. The Star’s plan, which was rejected in November 2019 for being “overly obtrusive”, would have seen a $529 million tower including a Ritz Carlton hotel and more than 200 units, sprung on the Star’s waterfront site. Property developer, Mirvac, has also released the amended version of their plan for The Harborside shopping center that is currently undergoing the approval process. The existing 30 year old Darling Harbour shopping complex is set to be demolished to make way for a new mixeduse development, which will include a new shopping complex and a 153-metre tower containing 357 apartments. The controversial move of the Powerhouse Museum, which has faced extensive backlash from the public, will also open up prime real estate for developers if it goes ahead. Even more ambitious than these projects is the $20 billion “vision” for Pyrmont put forward by the Western Harbour Alliance and Committee for Sydney which takes inspiration from

(Continued from the cover)

globally-renowned foreshore precincts like Marina Bay in Singapore. Their concept would turn the area into one interconnected precinct with “distinct character” and cable cars linking the “world class” attractions in the area. At the launch for the committee’s vision in December 2019, treasurer Dominic Perrottet suggested the vision could lead to $20 billion in investment and lead to the creation of around 10,000 jobs. But not all are optimistic about such ambitious visions. At the launch of the Committee for Sydney’s report, Lord Mayor Clover Moore said “the vision has a few ideas that should remain just that – ideas.” She made reference specifically to the proposed cable car network, which she said “is reminiscent of - and will inevitably have the same short-lived appeal - as the monorail.”

Mirvac’s proposed tower development for the Harbourside Shopping Center. Photo: Mirvac

state government planning controls, but “this process must be driven by genuine research and consultation.” Pyrmont Ultimo Chamber of Commerce representative, Alex Gibbs, told City Hub that residents and businesses in the Pyrmont area are not opposed to more development and infrastructure but that they want to see it “carefully planned.” “There’s an opportunity for both the business and resident community to look at how we embrace tourism as part of this plan. If we encourage tourism that benefits the local community as well as businesses, because there’s investment in really nice shared spaces,” Mr. Gibbs explained. “This is an area of the harbour that truly embraces the harbour. Every part of the

Major development

proposals are set to change the face of Pyrmont

Ms. Moore also expressed concern that the Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy could be used as a way to push through development proposals which had been previously rejected. In a mayoral minute, Ms. Moore suggested she agreed there was a need to consolidate local and

harbour foreshore is open to the public, which is rare in Sydney.” The “directions” for the Pyrmont places strategy are currently available online and minister Stokes is encouraging the public to give feedback on the directions. “Feedback from the community and businesses will play a crucial role in setting the vision for this important precinct so we’ve moved consultation online to make it easier for everyone to share their ideas safely from home,” said Mr. Stokes. The Pyrmont Ultimo Chamber of Commerce will be hosting an online community forum in May to discuss the Pyrmont Places plan, and they are encouraging business owners and local residents to tune in and have their say.

ATTEND THE PYRMONT PENINSULA PLACE

STRATEGY WEBINAR

On 7 May the Pyrmont Ultimo Chamber of Commerce will host a forum where local businesses and community groups can hear about the Pyrmont Peninsula Places Plan. In this webinar, you will hear from a panel representing the community, local business and the NSW Department of Planning.

THE PANEL STEVE DRISCOLL Project Leader Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy NSW Department of Planning, Industry & Environment

MARY MORTIMER OAM Community Leader

JAMES HULME Director of Advocacy Committee for Sydney

Date: 7 May 2020, Time 12-1pm, Log-in: 11.50am-12pm, Finish: 1pm To register, visit www.pyrmonthub.com.au 2

CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

WHAT’S ON

PYRMONT COMMUNITY OUR HISTORY Pyrmont has a fascinating history, much of which is showcased on the History Group’s website. We have collected a lot of information and photos of industries, locations, events, people and their connections – churches, pubs, leisure, family life. We are always looking for more, and especially recollections and photos of older residents, and people who worked here in days gone by. If you would like to talk to us about your experiences, or send some words we can add to our understanding of Pyrmont’s past, please email or phone Donald – 0429 679 204 djndenoon@gmail.com or Mary – 0410 679 204 mary.mortimer@ bigpond.com. If you have old photos to share, we can collect them from you, scan them and return them. Once the social distancing requirements are lifted, please join us for our monthly talk about an aspect of Pyrmont life - for example Stephen McWilliam on McWilliam’s Wines in Pyrmont, Philip Thalis on the Rise and Fall of Urban Design. DETAILS ON OUR WEBSITE

pyrmonthistory.net.au

WHAT’S ON AT PCC FOR TUESDAY, TO ENJOY FROM YOUR LOUNGE ROOM FITNESS 60 min workout for O55 www.youtube.com/ watch?v=rkDlpZ3Musw

MUSIC 2 hours of Andre Rieu www.youtube.com/ watch?v=K80cSfaCBQk

DANCE Zumba (Russian Kalinka) www.youtube.com/ watch?v=XapgNN2H2cE

PYRMONT COMMUNITY CENTRE Pyrmont Community Centre is the hub of our community, and although the centre is closed for the time being, Ed Ginzburg, centre manager, is keeping locals stimulated by his daily emails. To join Ed’s list, email Eginzbur@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

WRAP WITH LOVE Can you knit, sew or crochet? While we are staying at home watching lots of TV, we can be doing good at the same time. Pyrmont Knitters knit or crochet 25cm squares and sew them into blankets for poor people in cold countries: www.wrapwithlove.org/knitting-patterns It doesn’t matter how long ago you last knitted or crocheted, or how fast or slow you are. One more square will help to keep a cold person warm, as we join them with others. Perhaps you prefer to sew? We have squares that need sewing together – 28 squares make a wrap. Need wool or size 4 (old 8) needles? Need help to get started? Have wool or needles to donate? Have some squares already? Contact Mary – 0410 679 204 mary.mortimer@bigpond.com.

PYRMONT SUPPORTS Pyrmont Supports is a group of people who have come together to support each other as we grow older. We usually meet for coffee each Monday - this is now a Zoom meeting. Everyone is welcome to use the resources and become members; contact Libby via the website or 0404 492 444 to learn more. We have meetings about four times a year where we have a speaker about some of the issues that concern members. We have looked at legal matters, health issues and memory. We also have an informal network where people talk and walk and keep in touch and support each other. To know more please visit the website www.pyrmontsupports.org.au and if you would like to contact us there is an email link to send us a message.

FOR FAMILIES In January, community members cleaned, sorted and organised Maybanke Recreation Centre, and up to 40 children played there daily for 3 weeks. We expect that the playgroup will be able to use the space again, once social distancing restrictions are lifted. Meantime, there are lots of online activities and support groups, especially on Facebook: Pyrmont Playtime, Friends of Maybanke Pyrmont, Ultimo and Pyrmont Online Playgroup, Pyrmont Families and Fun. “Virtual playgroups”, one-on-one support and single family play sessions are being developed. Text Amanda on 0448 048 547 for details.

Facebook: facebook.com/FriendsPCC CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

PYRMONT PLACES

PYRMONT: founded on corruption, divided by disease, united by industry

BY ALEC SMART he Pyrmont peninsula is a sandstone-based outcrop bordered either side by two navigable coves, Blackwattle Bay and Darling Harbour. The region has gone through economic extremes as it transitioned from abattoirs to quarries to docks to slums and is now a hub for technology and tourism. Although inhabited for millennia by Aboriginal peoples and known as ‘Pirrama’, the rocky region at the western end of Warrane (Aboriginal name for Sydney Harbour) came to the attention of the Sydney penal colony experiment not long after Britons settled New South Wales in 1788. This was due to its two main sources of drinking water – a mineral spring and a freshwater creek – and close proximity to a deep bay that became the epicentre of Australia’s agricultural exports and shipbuilding industries. High quality sandstone also underpinned Pyrmont’s development. Resistant to erosion, it was extracted from 15 quarries and used for a range of major building works as well as ballast for shipping and railways.

PIRRAMA PENINSULA

To the west of Pirrama is Blackwattle Bay, a former tidal inlet known as Blackwattle Cove Swamp that European settlers originally crossed via a bridge, before the swamp was filled to form Wentworth Park. A freshwater creek – Blackwattle Stream – fed into the swamp, a source of drinking water. Named after black wattle trees, Acacia mearnsii, once abundant in the area, they were felled for timber and the tannins in the dark bark extracted for leather production. Subsequently, tanneries, abattoirs and leather and wool merchants were established, utilising new wharves to import machinery and export their produce. However, the processing plants leached foul-smelling, toxic pollution into the swamp, which in 1854 necessitated moving the main abattoir to Glebe Island. Accessible by a timber bridge, livestock were herded or carted there for slaughter, their blood flushed into the harbour, attracting hungry sharks. To the east of Pirrama, the bay of Tumbalong – an Aboriginal word for ‘place where seafood is found’ – was renamed Long Cove by European settlers due to its shape. Later, it was called Cockle Bay because of large shell middens (dumps) left by generations of Aborigines. Then, from 1826, tyrannical Governor Ralph Darling named it Darling Harbour. Darling banned drama and most public 4

CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

Cleansing Operations, Quarantine Area, Sydney, 1900. Photo supplied by NSW State Archives & Records

entertainment, so it’s a strange irony that major entertainment venues are now situated in the Darling Harbour environs. The name Cockle Bay has been repurposed since the Darling Harbour redevelopment (completed in 1988 Bicentenary year).

PARCELS OF ROGUES

in 1795 the tip of the Pirrama peninsula, 55 acres including a mineral spring, was granted to Thomas Jones, a private in the NSW Corps, an incorrigibly corrupt military unit that ran the colony as a private fiefdom under Major Francis Grose. In the first two decades of Sydney’s development by colonists, many grants of land were given to soldiers of the NSW Corps. A significant proportion were quickly sold on or traded for rum and other valuables. The Pirrama peninsula at the time was shared between the Gomorrigal and Wangal peoples. ‘Gal’ means ‘tribe of’ and Gomora and Wanne were the names attributed to bodies of water on the southern shores of Warrane (Sydney Harbour) where those tribes lived. Although first governor Arthur Philip referenced the Gomorrigal in his reports, little is known of them and social anthropologists have placed them collectively under the umbrella of the Cadigal (aka Gadigal) peoples that inhabited the southern shores of Sydney Harbour. The Pirrama land grant required Jones to clear and cultivate the peninsula for farming, but the rocky outcrop had poor potential for agriculture or raising livestock, so he sold it on to Sergeant Obadiah Ikin, also in the NSW Corps, for £10. Ikin, recalled from Norfolk Island by Governor King for his involvement in the NSW Corp’s brutal bullying of convicts, was no friend of the Aborigines. At the turn of

the century they were still prevalent around Pirrama, despite the devastating effects of smallpox from an outbreak in 1789, within a year of the First Fleet’s arrival, which completely bypassed European settlers. According to Judge-Advocate Richard Atkins, the colony’s principle legal officer, a letter sent to him by Obadiah Ikin admitted he and his associates had “destroyed many of them [Aboriginals].” Judge Atkins, a chronic alcoholic, fled to Sydney in 1792 after changing his name to escape debts in Britain. Governor King sought his opinion on the colony’s legal treatment of Aborigines. Atkins concluded they were “at present incapable of being brought before a Criminal Court ... the only mode at present, when they deserve it, is to pursue and inflict such punishment as they may merit.” In 1799, Ikin sold the Pirrama peninsula for a gallon of rum to John Macarthur, wealthy wool pioneer and, later, proponent of the notorious Rum Rebellion – the 1808 armed insurrection when Governor Bligh was deposed by the NSW Corps. In 1803 the rest of the Pirrama peninsula and 14 acres of what is now Ultimo was granted to John Harris, a military surgeon and magistrate.

FROM PIRRAMA TO PLAGUE TOWN

John Macarthur renamed Pirrama ‘Pyrmont’, after Bad Pyrmont, a spa town in the district of Hamelin-Pyrmont in Germany, renowned for a mineral spring where people ‘took waters’ during an era when mineral springs were believed to have medicinal qualities. The Pirrama spring, about 30 metres above sea level, was a vital source of fresh water to indigenous communities. It trickled through mosses and ferns and dripped into a cave formed by a large overhang. The water was captured in a bowl carved into the sandstone cave floor

by Aborigines, later widened by British quarrymen to hold about 2 gallons (7.5 litres) and named Tinker’s Well. The flow of water reportedly never ran dry, even in periods of drought. Because of its guaranteed availability, and the need to arrive early to collect it in buckets before long queues formed, a settlement of squatters in tin humpies established themselves nearby, known as Tin Pot Town. Tin Pot Town remained for over a century, eventually dismantled when the land was acquired in 1935 for a garbage incinerator. Pyrmont Incinerator, designed by husband-and-wife team, Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney (1912 winners of the international competition to design Australia’s capital, Canberra), was built to deal with the daily tons of rotting garbage. Health authorities identified this contributed to Sydney’s outbreak of bubonic plague at the turn of the century. The plague arrived January 1900 via Darling Harbour, on fleas carried by ship rats. The first recorded death was sailmaker Thomas Dudley, probably infected whilst removing dead rats clogging his toilet. Squads of rat-catchers were formed and thousands were killed and incinerated to stop the plague’s spread. Councils paid six pence per corpse, so vermin extermination became lucrative. In late August 1900, the plague was contained with 103 deaths among 303 recorded cases. Meanwhile NSW Govt reclaimed ownership of large tracts of foreshore, using plague as justification to destroy shanty-town slums all over Pyrmont and The Rocks, whose impoverished occupants had no legal right of appeal. Authorities also demolished many small jetties to better regulate main wharves. There have been several other clearances of lower socioeconomic groups in Pyrmont, including: ■ 1875 construction of the CSR sugar refinery at Elizabeth Macarthur Bay. ■ 1970s construction of freeways across Pyrmont. Freeways were curtailed by green bans enacted by the Builders Labour Federation working with community action groups. (Many historic buildings and parks, today major tourist attractions, would have been lost forever if it weren’t for courageous green bans. The word ‘green’ to describe environmental-awareness came from them). ■ 1980s police clearance of Pyrmont and Glebe squatters (who moved in while the area was severely run down) to make way for new high-rise apartments and renovated wharves under the Urban Renewal program.

PYRMONT GUIDE

OPEN FOR BUSINESS IN PYRMONT BY RITA BRATOVICH

yrmont/Ultimo peninsula is picturesque and lively… well, usually. It has a well preserved heritage that sits comfortably alongside avante garde architecture. The local population is one of the most highly concentrated in the country and is distributed among tall apartment blocks and traditional cottages. Several attractions make this area a popular tourist destination, yet at the same time it has a very strong sense of community and local pride, and that is reflected in its economy. Many of the restaurants, cafes, bars, retail stores and services are small, often family-run, enterprises and they represent a very diverse cultural demographic. The spirit of Pyrmont Ultimo is alive, so keep it thriving by supporting these local businesses.

BANQUERIE

EAT

SYDNEY FISH MARKET

On a normal sunny weekend this waterside precinct is packed with people and seagulls enjoying the open air dining, variety of food outlets, groceries, bars and, of course, the widest range of seafood this side of the equator. As of this writing, the Sydney Seafood Market (SFM) is continuing to trade, although you should check individual stores for hours and details. Many shops are also offering home delivery of both fresh and cooked food. Info: www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au

you prefer your desserts light blue with flower petals and a mermaid-tail garnish, then put this on your list of “places to visit when it’s all over.” In the meantime, they are offering home delivery and the presentation in the take-away box is still very impressive. They offer cafe style breakfast and lunch menu with delicious, healthy, good-sized Japanesethemed meals. You can have a salad or rice bowl with marinated pieces of fish, chicken, beef or tofu. Don’t forget to take a photo first. ;-) Info: www.facebook.com/twosispyrmont

TWO SIS & CO PYRMONT

Even if you’re not hungry you should visit the Facebook and Instagram accounts of these guys and indulge your visual senses. This is food art that belongs in a gallery; the colours alone will make you feel better about being in quarantine. If

This is a gorgeous French patisserie that occupies one of Pyrmont’s well preserved heritage buildings (a former bank) on the edge of the historical Union Square. And while, at this time, you can’t sit outside you can still go inside and grab something savoury, something sweet and order a freshly brewed coffee to take a little bit of Paris home with you. Info: www.facebook.com/banqueriepyrmont

bread, roquette salad and a bottle of wine for only $75. Info: www.facebook.com/arclementinepyrmont

BAR CLEMENTINE

DK’ STATION VIETNAMESE

This is a quaint cocktail bar at the bottom of Harris Street. They have an uncomplicated menu, offering a handful of choices including pastas, burgers and a charcuterie platter, with salad, fries, and garlic bread as optional extras. Or you can go with the waiter’s recommendation - their #isolationsensation: two pastas, garlic

This is quite simply really good Vietnamese food. Fresh, delicious, plentiful, well-presented and very satisfying. Just be wary if you order anything with chilli - it will be HOT. The take-away menu includes pho, bowl, fresh spring rolls, or pork rolls. And it all looks amazing. Info: www.facebook.com/dkstationpyrmont

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CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

PYRMONT GUIDE DRINK

PORTER’S LIQUOR (PYRMONT CELLARS) Thankfully, those in charge had the good sense to know that alcohol is an essential item and liquor stores must

of living through a world-wide shutdown at this particular point in time is that we have the technology to at least partially recreate some of our real world adventures. ANMM is proof. They have put many of their exhibitions and experiences online so you can enjoy them virtually. Info: www.sea.museum SERVICE

KWIK KOPY (DARLING HARBOUR)

These people are in the business of business, that is, they help other businesses stay in business. If you’re a

PYRMONT PHARMACY

Apart from getting prescriptions filled and buying behind-the-counter medicines, there is a lot you can get from a pharmacy that you can’t get from the supermarket. One of those things is good solid advice. At Pyrmont Pharmacy, the staff are friendly and helpful and make sure you get what you need. They have good supply of prescription medication and will work hard to get anything they don’t have. Info: www.facebook.com/PyrmontPharmacy

PYRMONT VET

down to Pyrmont Veterinary Hospital (call first, of course!). Pyrmont Vet has fully qualified staff who can provide a range of specialised services, from medical and maintenance right through to grooming. Info: www.pyrmontvet.com.au SHOP

BROADWAY SYDNEY (SHOPPING CENTRE)

This is a major shopping precinct for Pyrmont and Ultimo with a variety of specialty stores and supermarkets. The centre is currently open for select stores and services.

stay open. And even more gratefully for Pyrmont locals, Porter’s Liquor has a very wide, well-stocked selection of wines, beers, ciders, spirits and gin that hasn’t been lamentably turned into handsanitiser. The people in the store are very knowledgable and happy to give advice and make recommendations. Info: www.facebook.com/pyrmontcellars.com.au PLAY

AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM

A museum is one of those places where you really have to be there in person to experience it…or do you? The one benefit

small business owner or entrepreneur, it’s worth your while to visit their website and read some of the valuable blog posts. Or just go to their Facebook page and look check out the range of products they have for the current conditions. Info: www.facebook.com/KwikKopyDH

Those of you who have been quarantined with non-humans will be pleased to know that veterinarians are considered essential service providers. So if something goes awry with your fur baby you can take them

The centre is also launching pop-up food stalls on the ground floor featuring one of the food outlets in the centre for a period then rotating through other retailers. Also, while we’re in this lockdown period, parking in the centre is FREE. Info: www.broadwaysydney.com.au

Cats and kittens available for adoption

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Join our Good Neighbour Project. Visit catprotection.org.au

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CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

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HubNEWS

Trains kept on track (See p.9)

Bondi ‘Breach’ BY ALEC SMART ondi Beach ‘character’ and local strongman, Dimitri Moskovich, took part in a wrestle he wasn’t expecting when two police officers tackled him for allegedly violating Covid-19 restrictions. Moskovich, a 54-year-old Russian-born fitness fanatic, frequently seen at the beachside North Bondi Outdoor Gym that locals dubbed ‘Dimi’s Office’, allegedly attempted to swim near Ben Buckler Point north of Bondi Beach on Sunday 19 April. However, when he reportedly entered a fenced-off area, two police officers, a male and a female, pounced and pinned him to the grass before one wrenched his arms behind his back to handcuff him. Several witnesses filmed his ordeal and in the videos, posted to social media and used by news organisations, Moscovich can be heard pleading, “I’m a respectable local guy… Please guys, just stop. I’m not doing anything wrong! You started harassing me! You started with me about

B HubARTS: 3 WEEKS IN SPRING To help commemorate Anzac Day watch a special online presentation of this critically acclaimed production. (See p. 10)

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 Altmedia Pty Ltd. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content, we take no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions. ABN 52 600 903 348 Group Editor & Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons News Editor: Alec Smart Contributors: Alec Smart, Roydon Ng Cartoonist: Sam Mcnair Arts Editor: Jamie Apps Contributors: Erika Echternach, Irina Dunn, Madison Behringer, Mark Morellini, Olga Azar, Renee Lou Dallow, Rita Bratovich, Olga Sedneva Advertising Manager: Georgina Pengelly Cover Photo: Pyrmont skyline Designer: Nadia Kalinitcheva Advertising: sales@altmedia.net.au Mail: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 Email: news@altmedia.net.au, arts@altmedia.net.au Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Website: cityhubsydney.com.au If you have a story, or any comments you’d like to share with us: news@altmedia.net.au @CityHubSydney 8

CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

nothing! I’ll come with you to the police station but I’m not giving you my arms.” Some of the onlookers remonstrated with police that Moskovich would cooperate if they didn’t handcuff him. “Let him have some dignity, he’ll walk with you!” said one. Moskovich sustained a cut on his forehead and bruises to his wrist during his arrest. Once handcuffed, he was led to a police van and driven to Waverley Police Station where he was charged with failing to comply with “terms of notice erected by council”, and for resisting arrest. A NSW Police statement said, “About 3.30pm, police approached the 54-year-old man after noticing him walking through fencing near the rock platform at Ben Buckler Point, allegedly contravening the local government signs stating the area was closed. “Police attempted to speak to the man, however he walked away. As police approached him again it is alleged he became quarrelsome and argumentative…”

MODEL CITIZEN

Bondi Beach was closed on Saturday March 21 after large crowds swarmed onto the sand the previous day during a spate of warm weather. On 20 April some Sydney councils announced a reopening of selected beaches for exercise, including swimming, surfing or walking/jogging on the sand, although sunbaking or relaxing on the beach are expressly forbidden. Moskovich, allegedly a self-proclaimed former agent in the Russian Special Forces, is a colourful character and no stranger to publicity. His media appearances have ranged from voting in his ‘budgie smuggler’ swimming pants to breaking his legs falling off a rope down Ben Buckler cliff. After the latter occasion he admitted “I was looking at a very nice topless girl and I forgot what I was there for and next thing my legs were completely smashed.” He paid for his ogling by spending the next few months in a wheelchair and was often seen being pushed along the Bondi Beach promenade.

Refugees vs riot police BY ALEC SMART

iot Police were deployed at Villawood Immigration Detention Centre in Villawood, west of Sydney, on 16 April to quell a rooftop protest by three detainees in the Blaxland compound, which began five days earlier on Easter Saturday. Around 200 Villawood detainees also began a hunger strike on 13 April to demand testing for COVID-19 and release from their closely-confined detention - a high-risk environment for spread of the deadly virus. Balaclava-wearing officers from NSW Police’s Public Order and Riot Squad were brought in to restore order, assisted by Australian Border Force. According to the Refugee Action Coalition, detainees in Blaxland were locked in their rooms for days, but after riot police were deployed they were transferred to the Hume compound. “Swapping Blaxland for Hume has done nothing to rectify the inherent risk that is associated with the detention environment,” Ian Rintoul, Refugee Action Coalition spokesman, said in a statement.

All detainees have been prevented from seeing visitors since 24 March, after Australian Border Force issued strict controls to prevent coronavirus transmissions into their institutions. Instead, detainees were provided with $20 phone credit each week to enable ongoing verbal communications with their families, legal representatives and friends. The former Villawood Migrant Hostel, built in 1949 and at one time the largest migrant accommodation facility in Australia, houses around 500 detainees, including children. The centre, which was converted in 1976 to provide secure custody for persons awaiting review or deportation, has aroused controversy with allegations of human rights abuses. There have been several suicides on the premises. In 2011, 13 asylum seekers took to the roof after their pleas for a meeting with the Immigration Department were refused. The protest resulted in the incineration of three buildings, with claims that one of the rooftop occupants threw roof tiles at fire fighters after they blasted him with their high-pressure hose. Up to 100 firefighters in 19 fire

trucks battled the blaze and a medical centre, dining room and computer room were destroyed.

PROTESTS

Since the Covid-19 lockdown laws were implemented, refugees have also held protests in Melbourne and Brisbane, objecting to being kept in over-crowded hotels and detention centres. An open letter released in March and signed by over 1,000 doctors and other health professionals called for detained refuges and asylum seekers to be released into the community during the coronavirus pandemic. David Isaacs, the Sydney paediatrician and refugee advocate who drafted the letter, warned that hotels being used as detention sites “constitute a very high-risk environment for detainees’ mental and physical health.” “Detention is a virus time-bomb,” said Ian Rintoul, spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition. “The government’s own propaganda names detention as a high risk environment. But detainees are being held in an unsafe situation.”

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Opinion

Trains kept on track BY ROYDON NG n a major win for Western Sydney commuters, the NSW Government has promised to maintain rail services beyond Bankstown, which were scheduled for closure when the $12 billion Metro City and Southwest rail line opens. Responding to community concerns raised at the recent NSW Upper House Inquiry into the Sydenham to Bankstown Metro, Transport for NSW has released an options paper for the 9 stations west of Bankstown. Despite prior insistence from former Transport Minister, now Premier, Gladys Berejikilian, that the Inner West Line warranted termination at Homebush in 2013, due to a lack of track capacity further west, Transport for NSW’s latest proposal includes 2 options for continuing services through Homebush towards Regents Park.

BUS REPLACEMENT NOT AN OPTION

Commuters from Berala, Regents Park, Sefton, Chester Hill, Leightonfield, Villawood, Carramar, Birrong, and

Yagoona will no longer face an imminent threat of being forced onto buses. There is no reason why the (former) Inner West Line’s City to Liverpool via Regents Park and City to Bankstown via Regents Park train service cannot be restored today. The current operation of the Inner West Line from Homebush to Parramatta exposes the NSW Government’s dishonesty about insufficient track capacity at Flemington and Lidcombe for services to operate to Liverpool and Bankstown via Regents Park. Transport for NSW’s release of options for stations west of Bankstown has been deliberately discreet, without a major press announcement and the absence of such information on the front page of Transport for NSW’s website. This however is unsurprising, given that the NSW Government is hurriedly trying to rewrite history to coverup its previous intention to cut 19,000 commuters out from the Sydney Trains Network. The NSW Government’s neglect of commuters west of Bankstown contributed to serious community

NSW Govt has promised to maintain rail services beyond Bankstown, originally scheduled for closure when Metro City and Southwest rail opens. Photo: Roydon Ng

concerns regarding the future of trains west of Bankstown. Transport for NSW could have avoided such community angst by releasing draft options for west of Bankstown when the Sydenham to Bankstown Metro was announced in 2014. The Western Sydney community can feel rightfully angered at being treated as second class citizens with the lack of

information provided for over 5 years prior to the NSW Upper House Inquiry. Commuters can comment on the proposal to restore the (former) “Inner West Line” [City to Liverpool via Regents Park] at https://yoursay.transport.nsw. gov.au/west-of-Bankstown Roydon Ng is co-convenor of Restore Inner West Line and Save T3 Bankstown Line community groups.

COFFIN ED’S NAKED CITY

WILDSIDE OF THE PANDEMIC

hilst the current pandemic has had a massive effect on humanity and occupied our news services virtually 24/7, little has been noted on the impact on non-human animals – be it negative or surprisingly positive. There have been a few isolated cases of dogs being infected with a mild form of COVID-19, but so far it seems domestic and farm yard animals have not been impacted. The virus could well have sprung from the wet markets of Wuhan, but that’s a puzzle which might never be solved. The decision by China not to permanently outlaw all wet markets, partly endorsed by the World Health Organisation (WHO), is hard to comprehend. Sadly it gives a green light to the horrendous global trade in exotic wildlife, not only in China but right throughout countries like Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and Taiwan – to name just a few. If the wet markets continue worldwide, not only is the possibility of the next epidemic or pandemic originating there, but many species of trafficked animals face extinction. For the highly endangered pangolin, the temporary

closure of Chinese wet markets during the height of the pandemic meant at least a partial reprieve. Once the markets resume the criminal gangs who deal in the illegal wildlife trade will no doubt restart what is essentially a government sanctioned industry. What then of wildlife in general throughout the world and the immediate consequences of the pandemic? In Lebanon for starters it’s been reported

that flocks of migratory birds have descended into the now much quieter cities, where most off the residents are locked in their homes. Migratory birds, never before witnessed in the country, are now choosing the more welcoming landscape as an attractive stopover. With both the pandemic and a highly likely global recession set to affect us for years, there could be numerous similar stories.

Closer to home and it will be interesting to see what the effect is on the many urban scavengers who make the Sydney CBD and surrounds their home – pigeons, possums, seagulls, rats and ibises. The parks and common areas which once gave up a smorgasbord of human trash are now all but deserted. The infamous ibis or ‘bin chicken’ for example could well forsake the city and return to its more rural and wetland origins. For those of us who live in a more suburban setting and are now generating additional waste whilst isolated at home, we could well see some dramatic changes in the wildlife we attract and support. Rats and mice could well take advantage of the increase in home cooking and expand their population exponentially. And if you happen to find an ibis in your backyard going through your bulging wheelie bin, don’t be surprised. Anything is possible in the months and even years of total uncertainty that lie in front of us. Once thing is predictable – as human beings adapt to the so-called new normalcy, wildlife will also adapt, often in a way which is totally unpredictable! CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

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USE ME: A documentary-style thriller seven years in the making (See p.11)

Roshelle Fong

GRIFFIN LOCK-IN

hanks to social distancing measures live theatrical performances have been forced to shutter right across the city. This week though Griffin Theatre is turning to the internet to give Sydney’s theatre loving residents five incredible new shows, all for FREE! Griffin Theatre, with the assistance of Google’s Creative Lab, have commissioned five innovative and experimental artists to create performances especially designed for a live streamed presentation. With only a week to prepare the works could last one hour or they could just as easily be only five. They might be deeply interactive or observationally awe-inspiring. Only the artists truely know what’s planned. “We asked five extraordinary artists a huge question: How do you create the feeling of live theatre when it’s all happening online? I think this question holds huge implications for the future of our art form—not just now,

but in the long-term as well. I’m so excited to see what these artists propose,” said Griffin Theatre Artistic Director Declan Greene. Joining the Lock-In lineup from 7pm each night is: comedian, singer, and internet maven Jordan Raskopolous; Sydney performance collective Black Birds; awardwinning performance artist Harriet Gillies; discotheque DJs-slash-talk show hosts The Dollar Bin Darlings; and Melbourne-based multidisciplinary artist Roshelle Fong. Each work will remain online for 24-hours, after which they will disappear into the the eternity. Apr 21-25. FREE. Watch the shows here: www.griffintheatre.com.au

3 WEEKS IN SPRING I n the wake of all Anzac Day events being cancelled due to COVID-19 we are still being given the opportunity to celebrate our national heroes. 3 Weeks In Spring the musical by Ian Gerrard and Russell Tredinnick will now be available on YouTube to watch for free on April 25 and 26. To help commemorate Anzac Day, Endymion Productions believe in highlighting Australian stories and are giving “every Australian,” the chance to see this critically acclaimed production. 3 Weeks In Spring was presented by the State Theatre for a limited-season run in August last year. Narrated by the trailblazing journalist, C.E.W. Bean, the show focuses on the iconic and inspiring story of Simpson and his Donkey. Bean’s granddaughter, Anne Carroll, felt “all involved had embraced the sensitivity and understood the responsibility of telling this story.” The show received critical acclaim and was called “extraordinarily good” by AnzacLive. It has been praised for its “great music,”

Photo: Rebecca Elliott

by the Sydney Morning Herald and also connected with audiences receiving standing ovations during its limited run. Starring Lincoln Elliott, Matthew Herne, Lachlan James O’Brien, Courtney Powel. 3 Weeks In Spring has been hailed as “an amazing portrayal of an important event in our nation’s history. Seeing this is something every Australian should add to their bucket list.” (MM) Apr 25-26. Watch online: www.youtube.com

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CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

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ANZAC BALCONY WATCH

‘W

e’re All In This Together’ is the catch cry now on social media and it was the catch cry also for two world wars when families, friends and lovers stood on their front porches or in their front yards to farewell young soldiers in their smart uniforms marching off to war. It was the same when they welcomed them home. In both world wars the situation was global and the future was a giant question mark. Today we are again fighting

a global war only this time the ones on the frontline are health professionals, police officers, ambulance drivers, paramedics and people in strange white onesies cleaning up, sterilising and hosing down surfaces, equipment and utensils. For this reason we can’t mark Anzac Day in the usual way and there has been a major call to mark the occasion the way they did way back then. On our balconies, in our driveways and

from our front lawns. To mark the dawn service there will be the haunting sounds of the bugle on the radio and the tele. Turn up the music, let the sound of heroes tribute float through the air on a magic note of hope for mankind and for humanity. If you play the bagpipes play them for all to hear. If you have a torch or fairy lights or outdoor lamps turn them on and light the footpaths in solidarity. (RLD)

BY JAMIE APPS ive From The Island is a unique streaming series which takes place every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and has already had some of Island Record’s best newcomers joining hundreds of fans through Instagram Live. This streaming series is unlike others as it allows fans to interact with the labels’ diverse roster of artists in unique ways. Viewers are able to participate in trivia nights, paint and cook together with a wine in hand with an artist, and engage in fun Q&A sessions, as well as of course showcasing some of the best live performers in the country, in special acoustic sets. One artists from the Island Records roster who immediately jumped at the opportunity to participate in the program was Vera Blue. “I was supposed to be overseas doing some shows with Flume at the moment. So as soon as I found out they were doing this I was really excited to connect with my audience and the audiences of Island Records and Universal Music,” explained Blue. “At a time like this it’s really important, and also really special,

USE ME F

Vera Blue. Photo: Neil Kryszak

LIVE FROM THE ISLAND - VERA BLUE

for artists to be able to connect with their audience and fanbase.” While her participation in Live From The Island wasn’t her first venture into live streaming she told City Hub she put more into this particular performance. “For previous streams I’ve just setup with just myself and my guitar but for Live From The Island I set up a microphone and an amp so that people could hear it a bit better, which worked really well.” When reflecting on the performance Blue also realised that she had preshow habits which didn’t really matter for this type of performance.

ilmmaking may on the surface appear to be a glamorous and easily obtainable career, but realistically with the problems that plague the industry in Australia. Julian Shaw is an ambitious filmmaker who has managed to pave himself a successful career in this field. Born in New Zealand and raised in Sydney he attended AFTRS (Australian Film Television and Radio School) and has reached his goal, becoming an award-winning

“Strangely before the shows you kind of forget what your doing so I put perfume on before the show and immediately realise no one can smell me,” she said with a giggle. Adjusting to the unique dynamics of a live streamed performance can be a challenge, “It’s really lovely but also a weird experience at the same time. It’s a really unique and heartwarming experience because you can see what people are saying in the comments, which you don’t get at a live show. But it’s tough because you can’t hear anyone, so you have to deal with the quietness of your own room.” After experiencing these streamed performances Blue believes they are here to stay now, even beyond COVID-19 and self-isolation. “It’s a completely different form of performance but I think it will be important to keep doing it at random because they’re a nice way to see an artists in the very intimate setting of their own home. It shows a different side of an artist that people wouldn’t have seen before.” Every Tue, Wed & Thu. Info & Watch: www.youtube.com

filmmaker.His latest film, Use Me was produced on a micro-budget and won the grand jury prize at the 2019 Sydney Underground Film Festival, and also picked up an award for editing at the Brooklyn Film Festival.“The film focuses on a documentary-maker who is named Julian Shaw who happens to be me, setting out to make this documentary about Ceara Lynch who is a world-famous online humiliatrix. She makes men’s fantasies come true; she humiliates them verbally through

BIRDS EYE VIEW Photo: Jett Street

irds Eye View is a podcast created by female prisoners in the Darwin Correctional Centre in the Northern Territory, and it’s a fascinating look into a life that most of us will never experience. Collectively hosted by 18 women, each episode centres on a core theme and uses interviews, poetry, satire and the prison soundscapes to tell the story. Themes include Survival, Payback, Work and Faith. The most recent audio extra includes prisoner tips for how to survive a COVID-19 lockdown (these include a no bake cake recipe, exercises you can do in a confined space and ideas for getting your thoughts out of your head such as writing a journal). My favourite episode so far has been the one on the theme of Love. From how male prisoners replicate the female anatomy, to female prisoners being ‘gate gay’, it’s a brilliant eye-opener into life behind bars. Highly recommended for a difference perspective in these strange times. (LS) WWWW1/2

a webcam and they give her a lot of money. The film centers on me exploring her world and finding out that maybe she’s not as ethical as she presented herself to be.”Use Me was filmed in Sydney, Las Vegas and Portland in the US and edited in Sydney, which Shaw was heavily involved in. But producing films in Australia is problematic... Read our full interview with Shaw at www.cityhubsydney.com.au (MMo) Now available to view on Apple TV, Fetch, Goggle Play, YouTube. CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020

How we can all help stop the spread of Covid-19: Observe social distancing

Strict limits on public

gatherings

STAY HOME IF YOU CAN

Practice good hygiene

Follow the self-isolation rules

Covid-19 Support Financial support

For the latest advice, information & resources:

www.health.gov.au NSW Health: www.health.nsw.gov.au

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve lost your job, lost hours, or are suffering financial hardship, find out what support is available, including wage subsidies: www.treasury.gov.au/coronavirus.

Support for businesses & sole traders If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a business or a sole trader, find out what support is available at www.business.gov.au or 13 28 46.

If you have concerns about your health,

seek medical advice. National Coronavirus Helpline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Support for renters The National Cabinet has agreed to ban evictions over the next six months for commercial and residential tenants in financial distress who are unable to meet their commitments due to the impact of coronavirus. For help: NSW Fair Trading at www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au or 13 32 20 or the Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service at www.tenants.org.au or 02 8117 3700.

1800 020 080 Translating & Interpreting services

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If you need further assistance, please call my office on 9379 0700 or email me: Tanya.Plibersek.MP@aph.gov.au

TANYA PLIBERSEK MP COVID-19 UPDATE (AS AT MARCH 31, 2020) Authorised by Tanya Plibersek MP, Australian Labor Party, 1A Great Buckingham St, Redfern

CITY HUB 23 APRIL 2020