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city hub 26 march 2015

State election 2015: the hot seats By joe bourke The outcome of the state election is tipped to be tight and inner city seats could play a pivotal role.

The seats of Balmain, Newtown, Coogee and Sydney look to be some of the most interesting in the state, and are so far too close to call.

Balmain

Balmain, historically a Labor stronghold is expected to be one of the closest seats in Sydney. Greens MP Jamie Parker has held the seat since 2011, when he took control of the electorate from Verity Firth, who is now re-contesting as the Labor candidate.

This year the seat loses the traditionally more conservative areas of Haberfield and Dobroyd Point to the newly formed electorate of Summer Hill, meaning there will likely be fewer votes for Liberal hopeful Lyndon Gannon. Mr Gannon has made few public appearances.

The real fight is between Mr Parker and Ms Firth.

Perhaps the biggest issue for the future of Balmain is the Bays Precinct. The Liberals’ development plan would see more than 16,000 dwellings pop up in the areas of Blackwattle Bay, Rozelle Bay and White Bay. On her website, Ms Firth slams Liberal party policy for its lack of “commitments to green space, new affordable housing or even public access to the harbour foreshore”.

When the plan was announced, Mr Parker said the area needed to be developed but was an “opportunity we cannot afford to squander”, saying it needed to have accessibility for the public. He also voiced his concerns over the Liberal government’s previous flagship development of Barangaroo, which now features a 70-storey Packer-owned casino.

Although the policy issues between the Greens and Labor bear some similarities, a critical question is whether or not voters will move on from what many would say was Ms Firth’s downfall last election: the corruption uncovered

by ICAC in the O’Beid years when Ms Firth was the sitting member.

Coogee

This year’s election could see a shift back towards the Labor party. If it is like the swing that unseated Labor candidate and former member Paul Pearce at the last

Luke Foley (left) and NSW Premier Mike Baird.

election, it could be enough to secure his return to office.

At an electoral forum in February, Mr Pearce came out the victor in the polls with 55 percent. Liberal MP Bruce Notley-Smith polled 27 percent and Greens candidate Lindsay Shurey garnered 13 percent, with the rest undecided.

An issue which has been plaguing the electorate was the development of Bronte RSL. The Save Bronte community group was active in opposing this, campaigning against the development for over two and a half years with the endorsement of Mr Notley-Smith. The announcement two weeks ago that it would not be developed was a welcome boost for Mr Notley-Smith’s campaign.

Another hot-topic development in Coogee is Bondi’s bus depot. Mr Notley-Smith said it would certainly not be developed, but Mr Pearce said he was sceptical.

Other key issues for Mr Pearce include TAFE funding and the future of RPA Hospital. He said he will “ensure

that there is no reduction in quality from this great hospital”. He is also opposed to light rail in the area. Mr Notley-Smith has advocated for the government to deliver Malabar Headlands back to public hands. He is openly gay and a frequent campaigner for LGBTIQ rights.

Newtown

Tipped by many as the closest seat in the state, the Greens’ Jenny Leong and Labor MP Penny Sharpe will battle it out for the new seat of Newtown.

WestConnex is one of the biggest issues in the electorate and represents a key policy difference between the two frontrunners.

The Labor party has ruled out the compulsory acquisition of homes, the St Peter’s interchange and the M3M4 tunnel link, but has been criticised for being too similar to the Liberal party on the plan. The Greens have voiced complete opposition to WestConnex, instead saying they would use the money on public transport.

56 percent of Newtown residents are renters, meaning renter’s rights and affordable housing are key to the area.

Ms Leong was joined by Scott Ludlam and Jamie Parker last week to announce the ‘Standing up for Renters’ campaign, which would limit rent increases to once a year and cap them to the consumer price index. Ms Leong said this will help long-term renters and make Sydney more affordable.

Ms Sharpe said she wanted to see “public housing tenants have the issues of maintenance and cleaning dealt with properly” and that she would fight against any reduction to affordable housing. She said housing is getting unaffordable for those under the age of 35 and that while there was no quick fix, she wanted to secure a deal with renters “that makes long-term renting more secure”.

Both candidates are campaigners for LGBTIQ rights, and Ms Sharpe is openly gay.

Education is also a big issue in the electorate and is prominent on both candidates’ agendas. Ms Leong said the Greens would “continue to deliver child care centres through local council, and to campaign to freeze TAFE fees and restore TAFE funding”.

Mike Baird’s Liberal team announced $86 million as part of their Reskilling NSW plan with $48 million going towards TAFE scholarships for disadvantaged young people. The NSW Labor party has promised $100 million of funding for TAFE, pledging to make TAFE more affordable by reducing fees.

On her website, Penny Sharpe said she would “continue to fight against the cuts and the privatisation of TAFE in NSW”. Both Labor and Liberal parties have also committed to building a new inner city high school, an announcement welcomed by the Greens despite discussion about its location.

Sydney

Sydney is another seat to watch, and will be contested

by Independent MP Alex Greenwich, Liberal Patrice Pandeleos and the ALP’s Edwina Lloyd. Mr Greenwich received the only preference on the Coalition’s ‘how to vote’ card; a solid boost in the tight seat. Ms Lloyd has slammed the preference deal, saying the Liberals had “effectively thrown in the towel” with the decision.

Lindt Cafe reopening draws mixed feelings Published weekly and freely available Sydney-wide.

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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.

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By kayla canne Nearly 100 people flocked to the Lindt Cafe at Martin Place for its reopening last Friday morning.

The company officially reopened its doors to customers at 10am, around the same time gunman Man Haron Monis ordered the doors locked on December 15 last year, taking 17 people hostage.

In memory of victims Tori Johnson and Katrina Dawson, two gold plaques have been placed at the cafe entrance, commemorating Ms Dawson as “an inspiration” and Mr Johnson as someone “forever in our hearts.”

Lindt Australia CEO Steve Loane officially announced the reopening in a Facebook statement early last week, noting the decision was made only after consulting with staff.

“Overwhelmingly, the feeling was that reopening and moving forward is the best thing to do for everyone affected,” Mr Loane said.

Cat Delaney, who was informally dubbed the “Tissue Lady” after she spent the five days following the attack handing out tissues in Martin Place, said she felt Lindt had appropriately timed the reopen by giving the community time to grieve. “[The reopen] was inevitable, but they handled it tastefully,” she said. “It’s a nice compliment to Lindt and it compliments the two lives lost as well. I think they gave Sydneysiders a chance to come to terms with it, but this is also a chance for closure.”

Alan Sexton came to the reopening from Parramatta with a bouquet of rainbow roses, which he planned to place next to the memorial plaques as an act of “human kindness” in the face of terror.

“Terrorism is about trying to divide or pressure society and stir up hatred,” Sexton said.

“It failed completely in Sydney — instead, it worked against them because it united us in solidarity. It highlighted what a wonderful city we are, and how we came together in that context

Lindt cafe on Friday morning. Photo: Kayla Canne

inspired me to be so proud about the city I live in.”

But a stream of comments under Mr Loane’s Facebook statement showed mixed feelings towards the event.

Tane Thompson, a former Sydney resident who now lives in Brisbane, said he hoped Lindt had consulted the wider community prior to the reopening, as the event may have been too soon for those still trying to heal.

“With the event still very fresh in the minds of a lot of people, I think that some sort of timeline should have been adopted to help with the grieving process,” Mr Thompson told City Hub. Mr Thompson agreed however that the reopening of the cafe would have a positive effect on the community.

“If anything, the reopening of the cafe should be seen as the first step in many towards healing.

For me, personally, it’s a show of strength that the country is behind the community and that we

mourn the loss of those who lost their lives that morning. It should not be seen as a stand against terrorism but as a show of solidarity.”

Ryde resident Rosaline Babayan struggled upon receiving news of the reopening, noting that the new memories of the attack would inhibit her cafe experience, if she decided to go back.

“I am double minded. On one hand I am happy about the opening and moving on, and on the other hand it’s not easy to have fun and enjoy my time in a location that marked the first terrorist attack in Sydney since I moved here about 12 years ago,” Ms Babayan said.

Although more customers streamed in as the hour continued, Ms Delaney was surprised by the small number of supporters at the beginning of the event, but said the grieving process will be different for everyone.

“People will come in their own time,” she said.

“It’s a big thing.”

city hub 26 march 2015

3

Sydney to consider push for 500m towers

By James Elton-Pym The City of Sydney will next week consider joining Parramatta Council in lobbying for a federal review of building height limits so skyscrapers could reach as high as 500 metres.

Liberal councillor Christine Forster, who tabled the motion ahead of next Monday’s council meeting, said Sydney was “geographically constrained” like a “squashed sausage” and needed to expand vertically.

“Taller buildings have a smaller environmental footprint, they offer economies of scale and they can give us greater opportunities for housing,” Clr Forster said.

“We wouldn’t want to be left behind Parramatta.

We compete on a global scale with other cities in the region which have very tall buildings, but we also compete with other centres in Sydney in terms of jobs and people so we don’t want to be left behind.”

Sydney’s tallest structure at present, the Sydney Tower, stands at 309m. The height limit for most new buildings in the CBD is 235m.

While Parramatta Council voted unanimously earlier this month in favour of pushing for a federal review of building height caps, Clr Forster may not find the same bipartisanship in the City of Sydney.

Labor councillor Linda Scott did not rule out voting for Clr Forster’s motion but said it was low on the list of Sydney’s priorities.

“To be calling for a review of building heights in Sydney, as if the height of our buildings determines the success of our city, I think is short-sighted,” she said.

“Frankly I don’t have people coming to knock on my door saying there’s a great shortage of commercial space. Increasing the height of buildings may lead to an oversupply of commercial space.”

Clr Forster said while she advocated for raising the maximum limit she did not expect 500m buildings to actually be built in the CBD.

Sydney’s skyline at dusk. Source: wikipedia.commons

“I cant envisage that we’d be allowed to put 500m tall buildings in the city. It’d be nice but I don’t think it’s going to happen,” she said.

She said the northern and western parts of the CBD had the most room to grow upwards.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said earlier this month that she supported a review of the height

restrictions due to Sydney Airport but said they had not hampered development in the CBD, Fairfax Media reported.

A Department of Infrastructure spokesperson told City Hub that strict regulations of building heights were essential for the safety of Sydney’s airspace.

Australia’s laws reflect international standards

set out by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, the spokesperson said, but could change independently if it “would maintain or improve aviation safety and efficiency”.

A spokesperson for Parramatta Council said the support of the City of Sydney would help provide “further impetus” for a review of the legislation.

“We welcome the support of City of Sydney councillor Christine Forster,” the spokesperson said.

“Like Parramatta, development in the City of Sydney is also impeded by restrictive height limits.”

Parramatta’s push for a review of height restrictions began when the council’s plan to build the 306m Aspire residential tower was cut down by aviation authorities last year.

The Department of Infrastructure spokesperson did not confirm whether the demands of two councils would be enough to trigger a legislative review.

Clr Forster said she did not know how much pressure would be needed.

“But if the two major centres of Sydney and Parramatta asked the Minister for Planning to seek a review at the federal level then you’d hope that something would happen,” she said.

Clr Forster said Sydney could benefit from more remarkable towers, and used the example of the “amazing” Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“Why not have something as iconic as that in Sydney? I think it’d be a great thing,” she said.

Clr Scott said Sydney should not be looking to Parramatta for inspiration.

“I don’t think we can in any way argue that the two cities are comparable. Parramatta has completely different needs,” she said.

“We should be looking globally to the best cities in the world for ideas about Sydney’s future and we should be looking to our own residents.”

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city hub 26 march 2015

5

Full house for Sydney’s final forum

6

city hub 26 march 2015

(From left) Victor Taffa, Patrice Pandeleos, Chris Brentin, Edwina Lloyd and Alex Greenwich at the public forum.

NSW government’s move to evict public housing tenants from Millers Point.

Ms Pandeleos, speaking over shouts from the crowd of “it’s disgusting” and “shame”, said while the evictions had been a “very difficult decision”, each tenant’s removal would generate enough capital to pay for social housing for four more on the waiting list.

Mr Greenwich said Labor shared the blame for the Millers Point situation and accused the previous state Labor government of “eviction by neglect” at the site.

Mr Brentin and Ms Lloyd condemned the sale of the land.

“What’s going on in Millers Point is absolutely disgusting, and what’s even more galling this evening is Mr Greenwich has not even come out and ruled out forming a hung parliament with the Liberal party,” Ms Lloyd said.

One questioner asked whether Mr Greenwich was truly independent given his close ties with former Sydney MP and now Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore.

“I’m a true independent, but I’m also proud to have Clover’s endorsement and support,” Mr Greenwich said.

Ms Lloyd turned to Mr Greenwich and said “Alex if you truly think you’re an independent I think you need to go to Co-Dependents Anonymous”.

Patrice Pandeleos, the Liberal candidate, attended a previous meet-the-candidates forum at Paddington Uniting Church on March 19, despite initial suggestions she would not attend.

This comes amid reports that her recently replaced campaign manager told organisers Ms Pandeleos was not allowed to go to such events under Liberal party policy.

Patrice Pandeleos told City Hub she had “always been able to attend forums, despite popular opinion”.

Her new campaign manager said he had been working with Ms Pandeleos for four weeks, but would not confirm whether his predecessor was fired.

“I’m not answering questions about the last campaign manager,” he told City Hub.

Cartoon: Peter Berner

By James Elton-Pym The controversial 1.30am lockout laws and the evictions of public housing tenants at Millers Point were front and centre in a fiery meet-thecandidates forum for the seat of Sydney hosted

by City Hub last Tuesday.

Sitting independent MP Alex Greenwich, Labor candidate Edwina Lloyd, Greens candidate Chris Brentin, Liberal candidate Patrice Pandeleos and independent Victor Taffa fielded questions from the public in the packed upper level of the Beauchamp Hotel on Oxford Street.

Several members of the Lockouts Save Lives community group, which will spend election day handing out how-to-vote cards ranking candidates based on how strongly they support lockout laws, asked the sitting MP why he didn’t support the legislation.

Mr Greenwich said he thought lockouts were an effective punishment for rowdy venues but should not be applied across the board.

“I would have liked to see them imposed on poorly run venues a lot sooner . . . but we need to have diversity in our nightlife,” he said.

Mr Brentin, the Greens candidate, said lockout laws were not the answer. Rather, responsible service of alcohol restrictions needed to be properly enforced.

“Why the hell do we have [these laws] if no one is going to enforce them?” he said.

Both the Labor and Liberal candidates strongly support the lockouts. Ms Lloyd said Mr Greenwich was not listening to voters.

“Your view, Mr Greenwich, is against not only every single expert in town... but your own community disagrees with you,” she said.

Ms Pandeleos said the “doctors and the community” had spoken and supported the legislation.

Voters also questioned the candidates on the

ON MARCH 28

VOTE 1

Council News

Mayor‘s Message Waverley has received the best news with the Department of Planning rejecting the Planning Proposal put forward by a developer for the Bronte RSL site. This is a great victory and a good example of how the community, and in particular Stephen Lightfoot’s Save Bronte Group, Council and its local member Bruce Notley-Smith can work together to achieve a great outcome.

Thank you also to Bruce Notley-Smith MP and Gabrielle Upton MP for lobbying hard to have the Waverley Police Station rebuilt. Special thanks to the Minister for Police and Emergency Services Stuart Ayres for committing to replace this building, which is around 40 years old and is in desperate need of attention. A new and improved building will allow our police men and women to do what they do best – protect our community.

The aim of our Complete Streets strategy is to enhance Bondi Junction and make its spaces more vibrant and inviting. We recently installed a public table tennis table in Norman Lee Place, Bondi Junction. The table is free to use, weather-proof and painted by well-known artist Mulga. Please come down and have a hit with us. We are also looking at new pop-ups in Waverley Mall and Rowe Street in Bondi Junction. You can find out more about these pop-ups by visiting waverley.nsw.gov.au/building/current_projects.

Sally Betts, Mayor of Waverley Authorised by Emma Bacon, 1/359 King St Newtown NSW 2042.

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city hub 26 march 2015

7

‘Crypto party’ against metadata

By Wendy Bacon and Elise Dalley It was not your usual Saturday night at the pub -hundreds of people gathered with laptops to learn data privacy skills and, as Greens Senator Scott Ludlam put it, “protest against the way LNP and Labor MPs have rolled over” on metadata retention “even though a lot of them desperately disagree on the policy.”

It’s the “gross invasion of personal privacy” that doesn’t sit well with Greens Senator Scott Ludlam, who joined Balmain Greens MP Jamie Parker and Greens candidate for Newtown Jenny Leong at the Roxbury Hotel in Glebe for a ‘crypto party’ to teach people how to protect their personal privacy in light of the government’s new surveillance mentality.

Two days earlier, the controversial bill to store the data of every Australian using a digital device passed the Federal House of Representatives with just three MPs -- Greens Adam Bandt and Independents Cathy McGowan and Andrew Wilkie -- standing against the mandatory two year data retention it will create.

Ludlam said the evening was aimed at giving people a “sense of agency and collective power” and to “help build an insurrection against Bill Shorten’s bizarre decision to sacrifice our privacy for the sake of a deal with Tony Abbott.”

“I hope you can appreciate what a fundamental change [this is] from the targeted and discriminate judicial oversight processes that’s embodied in a warrant,” Ludlam told the crowd. The new data retention measures will see all phone, email and other metadata stored and made accessible to authorities for two years across every device in Australia.

As this report is published the data retention laws are still being debated in the Senate. Senator Ludlam has already recommended more crypto training.

“It is entirely lawful; in fact it is built into the bill, to circumvent mandatory data retention just by using overseas providers,” he told the senate.

Under the new laws, authorities will skip the process of applying for a warrant and have direct access to the

Jenny Leong, Jamie Parker and Scott Ludlam at the crypto party. Source: twitter.com

public’s personal data with the signature of a single senior officer. The Media Arts and Entertainment Alliance and human rights organisations strongly oppose the law as a threat to freedom of communication and investigative journalism.

Although the bill has now been passed, the workshop around online privacy skills remains more relevant than ever. Greens member Susie Quinn went along to the party to learn more and show her support.

“It’s important to loudly let politicians know how opposed we are to being under surveillance for no legitimate reason,” she said.

“The crypto party gave us practical ways to protect our own privacy - like some simple apps to use. It was eye-opening and empowering.”

“When we talk about data we’re talking about who we spend time with, where we go, what we do, what we care about. It’s not just some abstract technical term. If you think about it in that way, it’s hard not to care about what’s happening.”

Hundreds march against ‘the shady bunch’

By Joe Bourke More than 500 people attended the ‘March in March’ rally at Town Hall last Sunday to voice their opposition to Tony Abbott and many of the Liberal Party’s key policies.

Rallies were held around Australia, but with the upcoming state election, Sydney had the highest profile.

Several notable figures spoke at the event including Greens leader Christine Milne.

Education, global warming, privatisation of public assets, metadata retention and the transpacific partnership were the main points of Senator Milne’s speech.

Ms Milne also criticised Mr Abbott’s infamous “lifestyle choice” remarks, prompting the vocal crowd to chant “close the gap, not the communities”.

“It is Prime Minister Abbott who should make the lifestyle choice, and we would support him making a lifestyle choice to get out of the people’s parliament and go back to the diminishing, self reinforcing, bornto-rule Liberal club wherever that might be,” she said.

Earlier in the day, Premier Mike Baird launched the Liberal Party election campaign at Angel Place to party faithfuls, including PM Abbott and former PM John Howard.

He pledged 150,000 jobs if re-elected, and criticised the opposition to his party’s privatisation plan, describing it as “one of the biggest, most disgraceful scare campaigns ever seen in NSW”.

Despite Labor leader Luke Foley having voiced his concern that partial privatisation would make electricity prices rise, Premier Baird guaranteed electricity prices would be lowered if the plan proceeded.

Ms Milne slammed privatisation, and said that it could hinder the public’s ability to use renewable energy.

Public Notice

KINGS CROSS AT THE CROSS ROADS

By Helen Crossing* KINGS CROSS isn’t a just a place: it’s home to thousands of local residents, many having lived in the area for over 20 years. They’ve seen the proliferation of 24-hour pubs and clubs, drugs, alcohol-related crime, on-street murders and drive-by shootings. They live with the constant wail of sirens, screams of drunken revellers and whine of garbage trucks.

But the days of the Cross as an “entertainment” zone reliant on excessive drinking are at an end.

The total cost to Australia of alcoholrelated problems in 2010 was a staggering $14.3 billion. NSW police alone spend over $50 million a year policing this mayhem. The community can’t afford this: the money could be better spent on schools and hospitals.

A recent poll found that 91% of those who considered their city unsafe on Saturday nights blamed alcohol-affected people, 66% of NSW residents favour state government measures to reduce alcohol-related violence introduced in

February 2014 and 73% want leaders of the major state parties to outline their plans to address alcohol-related harms prior to the 2015 State Election.

All the political posturing over lockouts ignores the needs and rights of residents.

The successful Newcastle trial implemented lockouts, which stopped pub crawling, a stronger compliance regime and earlier closing. Crime fell 33%. Only one of those measures, a two-year lockout trial, has been introduced in Kings Cross. Crime has fallen dramatically, as have street violence and admissions to St Vincent’s Hospital.

The evidence for impacts across other suburbs and on alcohol-related family violence is still unavailable.

To hold a review of new lockout laws prematurely would frustrate the gathering of accurate data on which to base decisions for better, long-term social outcomes.

Residents say that lockouts support are one step closer towards a safer, more

civilised society. They support calls by medical staff and police for lockouts to remain.

Let’s put people before profits.

Pubs and clubs provide data and figures which claim to highlight a decline in revenue and loss of employment opportunities in their sector.

These are presented as hardships yet they are relatively insignificant compared to the enormous cost of the harm done to communities and families, as notably exemplified by the deaths of Thomas Kelly and Daniel Christie.

Lockouts are helping to save lives.

Businesses in the Cross is now diversifying and new owners with fresh ideas are helping to return vitality to the area.

It’s no longer a booze-based monoculture.

A National Summit examining our alcohol culture is needed. We have an obligation to make changes that will protect future generations from alcohol-related harm: let’s get it right.

www. 2011residentsassociation.wordpress.com * Convenor, 2011 Residents’ Association Inc., a non-profit community group established in 1998 for the 2011 postcode area 8

city hub 26 march 2015

Protesters listening to Christine Milne at Town Hall.

Photo: Joe Bourke

“It is the people’s asset and we do not want it sold off,” she said.

“We need to keep it in public hands so that we can bring on the energy revolution.”

Coal seam gas was also attacked by the speakers.

The upcoming release of Frackman the Movie will bring further attention onto CSG and there have been reports that it could cause a swing to Labor in some regional seats.

Ms Milne also condemned both major parties for their stance on metadata, criticising Bill Shorten for “falling into line with Tony Abbott”. This sentiment was echoed by the event’s host Alex McKinnon, who introduced Ms Milne as “the leader of the opposition”.

Following the speeches, roads were closed until 3pm as protestors marched to Belmore Park.

WRITERS AND OPINION MAKERS WANTED The Alternative Media Group of Australia is looking for writers.

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Marrickville condemns anti-Semitism By emily contador-kelsall Marrickville Council unanimously supported a mayoral minute last week condemning anti-Semitic behaviour that had surfaced in the area.

The motion was introduced after councillor Rosana Tyler was targeted with anti-Semitic vandalism on a sign advertising her personal business due to her Jewish faith.

Anti-Semitic behaviour has also been alleged at the University of Sydney in recent weeks. A contentious “Free Palestine” protest interrupted a lecture given by retired British military officer Colonel Richard Kemp.

The university’s Professor Jake Lynch was later accused of participating in the event.

Clr Tyler said she had made a “song and dance” about the anti-Semitic vandalism of her sign because she did not want the perpetrator to be emboldened to do it to someone else.

“Attacking anybody’s ethnicity, whether it’s me or whether somebody else, for their religion or where they come from is wrong… this is Marrickville and that is not what we do,” she said.

In the first week of January, Clr Tyler noticed someone had stuck “something white” that looked like “a cat’s claw facing downwards” on her sign when she drove past it.

“I was driving so I didn’t have a chance to see if anything was written on it and I thought I saw the same type of thing on the wall and on other posters,” she said.

A few days later, Clr Tyler noticed that someone had drawn the Star of David with an arrow on her sign.

“Obviously that upset me a lot,” she said.

“So I thought that I would take a picture and when I went to have a look, it wasn’t a cat’s claw, somebody had drawn on a piece of paper and then around the shape, including the hairs down below, a scrotum.”

The white on the wall Clr Tyler thought she had seen beside her sign was in fact a piece of paper that read “support the scrotum tax”. Clr Tyler said she had no idea what this meant.

Marrickville councillors standing in solidarity with Clr Rosana Tyler. Source: Marrickville Council

The next week Clr Tyler’s friend alerted her of further vandalism when he saw a swastika on her sign as he was driving past. The swastika was drawn back to front.

Marrickville Mayor Mark Gardiner said he hoped the “hate campaign” targeting Clr Tyler was an isolated incident.

“It is utterly deplorable that anti-Semitism exists in 2015,” Clr Gardiner said.

Clr Tyler was very pleased with council’s show of solidarity through the mayoral minute.

Peter Wertheim, Executive Director of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, the peak body for the Australian Jewish community, said anti-Jewish incidents have become more prevalent in recent years.

“For older Jews in Australia, many of whom are Holocaust survivors, these incidents can bring back terrible memories,” he said.

“This is precisely what happened at the University

of Sydney. Many of those sitting in the front rows of the lecture theatre when the protesters stormed in were elderly Jews.”

The University of Sydney is currently investigating the incident.

Over a dozen student protesters interrupted a lecture given by Colonel Kemp on March 11, entering the lecture theatre chanting, “Richard Kemp, you can’t hide, you support genocide”, and later, “free free Palestine”.

Differing accounts have surfaced over what happened next, but campus security was present, and officials were met with resistance when attempting to remove the protesters. The incident that has drawn the most attention involves Professor Lynch, the Director of the University’s Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies, when he engaged in a heated argument with an elderly woman who was present at the lecture. The woman later attacked Lynch, who waved money at her in the midst of their exchange, which some saw as

an inappropriate gesture invoking the stereotype of a ‘greedy Jew’.

“The University is deeply concerned about events surrounding a protest on campus and has commenced an investigation into the incidents,” a spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said the university supported the right to protest and academic freedom of staff and students but opposed violence and racial vilification.

An online petition started by the Australasian Union of Jewish Students that calls for the removal of Professor Lynch currently has 6,019 supporters.

Mr Wertheim said contemporary anti-Semitism often takes the form of a “denial of Jewish peoplehood and basic rights.”

“For [elderly Jews] the chanting, taunts and ugly expressions of hatred of the protesters was overwhelmingly reminiscent of the behaviour of the Brown Shirts and similar groups that they encountered in their youth, and they reacted accordingly,” he said when talking about the USYD incident.

Last year, there were several anti-Semitic incidents in Sydney’s east including reports of white supremacist group distributing anti-Semitic flyers around Bondi and Double Bay and intoxicated teenagers boarding a school bus and verbally abusing students from Jewish schools.

Earlier this week, Marrickville’s Red Rattler Theatre received unwanted publicity after refusing to book a Jewish cultural group because their policy “does not support ­colonialism/Zionism. Therefore we do not host groups that support the colonisation and occu­ pation of Palestine,” according to an email the theatre sent. The theatre later apologised for their actions.

Clr Gardiner welcomed the apology from the Red Rattler Theatre and said the incident was “really quite disgraceful and outrageous.”

“I’m very sorry to see this kind of discrimination in Marrickville,” he said.

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9

Artists bristle at council studio eviction

By James Elton-Pym A group of artists and a well-known Sydney historian have been ordered to vacate their councilowned studios in Glebe by the end of the month to make way for renovations they never requested or wanted, the artists have told City Hub. The artists had their existing leases terminated and have been issued with formal eviction notices.

Artist Christine Webb said the eviction had come at the worst possible time as she prepared for her upcoming annual exhibition in May. “It is really awful to have been turfed out at the pinnacle of my work,” she said.

“They’re refurbishing the studios even though they don’t require refurbishment. They’re perfectly viable as they are.”

The studios, which were once old nurses’ quarters, are located behind Glebe Library.

While the spaces are currently priced at just $50 per week to make them affordable for artists, a council spokesperson was not able to confirm whether the rent would change after the estimated $28,000 upgrade.

The City of Sydney is seeking a new manager for the studios to take over from the Glebe Chamber of Commerce once the works are complete.

Gay Kalnins, who recently retired as the secretary of the chamber, oversaw the subletting of the studios.

“I can assure you — I would stake my life on it — that they wont be $50 per week anymore,” she said.

“As if the City of Sydney needs more money anyway.”

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Inside the Glebe Artist’s studios. Photo: James Elton-Pym.

Ms Kalnins said the renovation was unnecessary and criticised council for removing useful parts of the studios, such as cupboards and desks.

“Nothing needed to be done but of course some bureaucrat in the council woke up one morning and thought: ‘Hmm, what will I do this morning? Oh yes, I’ll do up all those artists’ studios in Glebe’. They didn’t even inspect them or anything. They just made a decision to do it.”

A council spokesperson told City Hub the studios had not been refurbished in 10 years.

“The City is undertaking basic maintenance required to re-lease the premises and ensure it is ready for future use. This includes clean-up of the site, repair of broken fixtures, maintenance painting and removal of worn carpet,” the spokesperson said.

The artists have been told they may reapply for the studios once the new management has taken

control and the renovations are complete, but Ms Webb said she understood she would not get any special preference for having used the space before.

Max Solling, a well-known archivist and volunteer historian, is the only tenant in the old nurses’ quarters who is not an artist. His team of seven volunteers runs a 15-year-old archive in one of the studios.

Mr Solling told City Hub he had been advised his archive was classified as “storage” so would no longer be eligible for an allocation grant.

“It’s [nonsense], an archive is a living thing . . . continually being added to,” he said.

Mr Solling is now moving all 40 archive boxes into his home.

“We will just keep working and do the best we can.”

The council spokesperson said council was working to help the artists find alternative accommodation.

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city hub 26 march 2015

No vote for Waverley referendum Waverley Council last week voted down Greens councillor Dominic Wy Kanak’s proposed referendum on amalgamations.

Liberal Mayor Sally Betts voted against the referendum, saying it would make it difficult for businesses to comment and denied ratepayers a vote if they were not citizens.

Waverley Council has publicly declared it is opposed to amalgamating with other local councils unless “sufficient” benefits and community support arise.

Independent councillor Miriam Guttman-Jones voted for the referendum.

“It wasn’t supported by the Liberal councillors because it is the Liberal government that is pushing for amalgamation and therefore the Liberal councillors support amalgamation,” she said.

Information council provided to residents and businesses outlined six possibilities for the merging of LGAs, including Waverly merging with other major urban centres like the City of Sydney to create a “global city”.

Coogee MP Bruce Notley-Smith said he was opposed to the “global city” idea and said the NSW government would not force amalgamations, even after the election.

Local Government NSW (LGNSW) has called on the government to “come clean on forced amalgamations” before the election this Saturday.

LGNSW President and Coffs Harbour councillor Keith Rhoades said voters had a right to know each party’s position before March 28 so their vote could reflect the future they wanted.

Clr Guttman-Jones said she was quite sure that despite the government’s assurances they would “push it through” after the election.

“The government and other parties are yet to commit to no forced amalgamations and that’s just not good enough.”

Clr Betts said it was good the government had asked councils to talk to their communities.

“We know that the government is encouraging councils to merge and facilitating that process,” she said.

Councils are required to indicate by June 30 whether they want to remain by themselves, merge or be classified as rural.

ARTS FEATURE

The Life of Montaigne

By Carmen Cita When fresh-faced Jessica Cerro placed as a finalist of Triple J Unearthed High in 2012 with her catchy pop tune Anyone But Me, her mum was her manager and her most devoted fan. Recording under the artist moniker Montaigne, the Sydney-based songstress is striking a chord with audiences across the country. As her first sold-out national headline tour approaches and conceding the sophistication of her new sound, Cerro says, “I was just 16 when I did Triple J Unearthed - I’ve done a lot of growing up since then. I didn’t have much to write about back then, simply because I was a sheltered, private school, all-girls school kind of girl. The things I wrote about then were quite inane and insipid and boring.”

“I wasn’t reclusive, but at that time I was the kind of person who would rather stay at home on Tumblr if I had the option, rather than go out on the town with my friends. I was really into pop music. I was really into Glee at the time.”

After that early dose of Triple J fame, Cerro took time out from her music career to complete and ace her HSC at Loreto Normanhurst College in Sydney.

While she still has a healthy respect for the pop canon, the wide-eyed ingénue has matured into an introspective artist with a penchant for Romance languages and moral-laden literature. Her new sound draws comparisons to Regina Spektor, Florence Welch, and Marina Diamandis of Marina and the Diamonds.

Borrowing her stage name from French Renaissance philosopher Michel de Montaigne, Cerro’s music reflects her own personal philosophical evolution.

“Michel de Montaigne was really real,” Cerro explains. “He was really progressive about learning and education and about talking about oneself and reflecting on oneself - not in a self-important way, but as a means to learning and evolving.”

“He emphasised the dangers of thinking that you’ve done all there is to do and thinking that you know all there is to know,” she adds, “There is always room to learn more and to treat others better.”

The philosopher made it his goal to describe humans, and especially himself, with honesty and frankness. Combining autobiographical observations, anecdotes and intellectual insights, he is known for popularising the essay as a literary genre.

Like her namesake, Montaigne is candid and self-reflexive. She says, “Being kind to people, and treating people better, is really important because we live in a world that is full of people and we have to constantly interact with these people in order to get anywhere in life. Michel de Montaigne reflected on himself in order to improve himself - and that’s kind of what songwriting is to me.”

“I’ve always been really open about my life. Maybe too open, I don’t know. My music is an extension of that,” Cerro explains.

“Solidarity is an important thing to me. It’s important to be able to share common human

experiences – whether it’s about pain or suffering or frustration. I have no qualms about sharing that with people.”

“For example, my song I’m a Fantastic Wreck is about self-improvement. We’ve all done some messed up things in our lives. My principle on forgiveness is that everyone should be forgiven as long as they have the intention of doing a better job next time. “ At the tender age of 19, the accolades are rolling in fast and furious for Montaigne and her captivating voice. She was awarded the Next Big Thing Award at FBi Radio’s 2014 annual SMAC Awards; the New York Examiner touts her as an artist to watch; and Tone Deaf ranks her as one of Australia’s most talented young musicians.

Cerro’s mum is still one of her biggest fans – but her music has a few more loyal followers these days.

“My family is very supportive of my music career,” she says. “My parents enjoy music but they don’t sing or play anything. They like music but they’re not

passionate about it. But my grandmother, she plays guitar and piano, and is a classical singer - she has quite a voice on her. They say that certain talents skip a generation.”

Having just wrapped up a tour with Megan Washington, Montaigne is now looking forward to taking the Life of Montaigne solo tour to audiences in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.

She says, “There is something raw and spontaneous about performance – it’s all about what you’re doing in the moment. Recording, on the other hand, is very perfected and precise. It’s about producing the best, most immaculate thing you can possibly produce – so it’s very different.”

“Performing I love because, really, that’s what I was invented for. I enjoy performing for people - I love sharing that experience with people, interacting with fans, and meeting people who enjoy what I do.”

Montaigne will perform songs from her new EP at Brighton Up Bar on April 24th.

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11

EAT & DRINK

The Butler A flock of sulfur-crested cockatoos screech across the painted sky.As night falls, the city lights come alive and your conversation is likely punctuated with long pauses as you each get lost admiring the view.The leafy balcony here is the perfect place to sink cocktails, and The Grand Butler ($18) with Bulleit Rye,Antica Formula and salted caramel proves a sophisticated way to begin. If you’re after

$ - mains less than $15

$$ - mains between $15-$22

ROCKS & CBD Chiswick at the Gallery Matt Moran and Peter Sullivan have brought the highlights of the garden-driven Chiswick over to the Art Gallery of NSW’s restaurant space.You’ll find the communal dining elements they’re famous for – slowroasted Moran family farm lamb; whole roast chook – alongside cocktails and small plates.While SzechuanYellowfin Tuna ($20) with apple, cucumber and mint was too muted, the dude food options surprised.

I particularly enjoyed Snow Crab Sliders ($9/each) and crisp Fried Quail ($22) with lively jalapeños and sriracha mayo.They’re prefect against the passionfruit chilli punch of Picante de la Casa ($17).Alternatively, construct a light lunch of Oysters ($4/

By Jackie McMillan something more smashable, La Mule ($17) pretties up Ciroc Vodka with St. Germain elderflower liqueur, lime, basil, bitters and housemade ginger beer. Cognac cocktails are also well represented; try wrapping your lips around the roasted almond sugar rim of the Butler Side Car ($16) as your way in. Menu-wise James Privett (ex-The Cut) has declared his influences to be French Caribbean, fitting in nicely with French-Colonial décor, including relaxed cane furniture. He’s made some unique interpretations of the genre, including a saucy bowl of vividly orange Tabasco Prawns ($22) with mango salsa and coconut quinoa; and very gently ‘Creole’ Spiced Lamb Ribs ($24). Breaking from the theme, sous-vide Salmon ($22) with spiced eggplant, celery and curried yoghurt, looked pretty but lacked in wow-factor; though it’s quite possible to be kept perfectly happy with bar snacks like Beef and Spiced Pork ($6/each) or Boudin Noir ($6/each) sliders, and plentiful drinks.

123 Victoria Street, Potts Point (02) 8354 0742 butlersydney.com.au Cocktails, Bar, Bar Food $$$

$$$ - mains between $22-$30

each), Native Thyme and Garlic Flatbread ($6) and seasonal Peaches ($17) with bitter leaves and mint.

Art Gallery of New South Wales,Art Gallery Road,The Domain, Sydney (02) 9225 1819 chiswickrestaurant.com.au Modern Australian $$$-$$$$ Bowery Lane On-point plating means the Buttermilk Hotcake ($14) might have you whipping out your phone to document the artful tumble of fluffy hotcakes, edible flowers, berries, seeds, mascarpone and maple syrup – even if you’re not usually the type to photograph your food. For the ultimate two-course breakfast indulgence, split a serve after you all order something savoury.

In that quarter, it’s hard to choose between their single-pan breakfasts: Harlem Hash

$$$$ - mains over $30

($16) with slow-braised pork, kale, kumera and puffed wild rice under a sunny-side egg, and Scouts Breakfast ($16) of spuds, mushrooms, prosciutto, goats cheese and poached eggs.They’ve also renovated the Breakfast Roll ($14) into a satisfying avalanche of twice-cooked pork belly, apple ‘slaw and fried egg.

Shop 1, Level 4, 1 O’Connell Street, Sydney (02) 9252 8017 bowerylane.com.au Breakfast, Café $$ DARLO, KINGS X & SURRY HILLS UberThai Immersed in fragrant Thai basil, my teeth register pleasure at the resistance in long slivers of bamboo, and crunch in tiny green

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Zahli Jumping into the spot formerly occupied by Al Aseel, restaurateur Mohammad Issmail has transformed the space into arguably the slickest-looking Lebanese restaurant Sydney has to offer.And it doesn’t stop at the marble bar, ornate blue tiles and quirky, upside-down desk lamps dangling from the cleverly integrated acoustic ceiling, either! White tablecloths set off carefully chosen earthenware plates, and quality (Bose) speakers deliver a

eggplants. Gently cooked chicken thigh is also plentiful in this well-balanced Green Curry ($12), and it’s a steal at the price.

Executive Chef Guitar Salacheep has considered what Western diners enjoy, without compromising heat or authentic Thai flavour. So Grilled Pork Som Tum with Coconut Rice ($15) is intensely sour, and the sweetness of Pad Prik King Crispy Pork Belly ($14) is cut with fiery bird’s eye chilli.

Fish Cakes ($6) arrive sliced into a pretty salad, while Moo Ping Pork Skewers ($6/2 sticks) ooze quality against jim jeaw dipping sauce with roasted rice powder.

437 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills (02) 9211 2521 uberthai.com.au Thai $ Civilian Bar & Kitchen By changing Christine Manfield’s tangerine to cool aquamarine, Steve Waldeck has

fabulous modern Arabian soundtrack. I’m impressed, and that’s even before I get stuck into the smoothest, most flavoursome hommos I’ve tried; best in a Mixed Dips ($20) arrangement with companion smoky baba ghannouj and lightly tangy labneh. Fattoush ($15) is also resurrected here with vibrant capsicum and crisp cucumber showing Chef Abdul Shams’ commitment to good produce. In the hot mezza, Falafel ($12), adorned with sesame seeds, are brightly aromatic with cumin and coriander seed, while compelling Coriander Potato ($12) is red with chilli and goes well with Almaza ($10) beer. For the main event, if it’s hard to choose between moist chicken Shish Tawook ($26) or tender lamb Lahem Mishwee ($27), consider a mixed plate or banquet.The Mediterranean ($50/head) gives you everything I’ve spoken about (and more), but its generosity might preclude you from trying the signature Milk Pudding ($10); and that would either be sad, or reason to return.

529 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills (02) 9318 2228 zahlirestaurant.com Lebanese $$$

lent this courtyard restaurant a relaxed, Mediterranean feel, which invites you to linger over a Cambridge Road Papillon Blanc 2014 ($77).The food offerings, pleasantly free from lofty ambitions, comprise of a short list of accessible share plates arranged by size. For casual drinkers there are snacks like Almonds ($7), Olives ($9) and Sydney Rocks ($5/each) enhanced by cucumber, apple and chardonnay. If you’re hungry, skip straight to the mustardcrumbed Coorong Angus ($39); cut tagliata for easy sharing on kale, white anchovy and mushrooms. Standout Goats Cheese Tortellini ($22) and the Roasted Pumpkin ($16) dotted with pepitas, shallots and chèvre, satisfy without the use of meat.

248 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst (02) 9361 4162 civilian.net.au Modern Australian $$$

Bang: Bangladeshi Street Food The latest high concept ‘street food’ to hit Surry Hills celebratesVasco da Gama, who ‘discovered’ occupied territories.

He’s employed to explain the Portuguese wine list, including the 2013 Prova Regia Arinto, Bucelas ($14/$68). Sylhet in Bangladesh is tea country, explaining easydrinking cocktails like gin-spiked Earl Grey Tea ($16). Chef Tapos Singha, another export from the region, curries favour with glossy Wagyu Tri-tip Curry ($32), best wrapped in fluffy Naan ($6). Delicate Cobia Tartare ($22) is another winner.

The street food aspect is best in airy Fuska ($10) with shaved egg and tamarind water, and compelling Mango Kulfi ($11).

3/410 Crown Street, Surry Hills (02) 8354 1096 bangstreetfood.com.au Bangladeshi, Cocktails $$$$

EAT DRINK

EAT &&DRINK

By Jackie McMillan

Malabar With each new arrival there is a chorus of greetings, the kind you reserve for old friends. It’s clear that despite moving a few doors up the road, Malabar Darlinghurst has retained its loyal regulars, and they seem delighted with the new setting.They should be; it’s thoughtfully renovated with great attention to detail, down to wall-sized murals, and plentiful air conditioning vents. And unlike the former space that owner and chef Mohammed Sali occupied

The Powder Keg With Sydney’s largest collection of gin in the hands of star mixologist, Grant Collins, I really didn’t expect to be raving about the food. Head Chef Elijah Holland, a mad-keen forager, very nearly steals the show. Collins does throw down the gauntlet with his Gunpowder Plot ($18), arriving in a cloud of tea smoke. Holland shows his own flare for fire with smoked spuds in Quail Scotch Egg ($16) and a Smoked and Roasted Half Chook ($27).The latter is juniper brined, cooked on the bone for flavour then transformed into a veritable garden of deeply smoky bird, artichokes and lentils. Make sure you stay for a Nettle Gimlet ($17) accompanied by a perfect Eton Mess ($15).

7 Kellett Street, Potts Point (02) 8354 0980 thepowderkeg.com.au Bar, Modern Australian $$$

Two russet gold Hungarian Vizslas sit like statues, their eyes boring into the café door, through which their owner has just disappeared.When they break ranks to say hello, he pops out to check we like dogs. I suspect this should be a rule if you visit a café called Dachshund Coffee. Despite this, coowner Rob Stein explains:“It is just a name, though one that’s a little preppy and playful,” just like the resulting, stylish café. It has injected some long-overdue Surry Hills-style into the rapidly changing face of Hunters Hill, and it’s GREATER SYDNEY Chinaman Dumpling Dumplings, in and of themselves, make me happy. Boil ‘em, fry ‘em—just let me at ‘em. So it didn’t take too much to get me across the bridge to Chinaman Dumpling. The name says it all, and the menu is rife with the usual suspects, including a compulsory set of Pork and Chive Dumplings ($13) with nice onion bite. Chunks of shrimp and water chestnut-crunch give way to a nutty whisper of roasted sesame in Shumai ($9); while Duck San Choy Bow ($14) are bright with fresh chilli and spring

Banana Blossom

since 2003, the new space is drowning in natural light with city skyline views.The menu has made the hop as well, preventing unrest from those Malabar regulars.

Mohammed squeezes a few new South Indian dishes onto his Chef’s Specials, including Kovalam Barramundi ($14), which impresses with clean flavours that prioritise the fish. Similarly, Mellagu Prawns ($16) combines peppercorns, tomato and fennel seeds into a roundly aromatic dish that complements, rather than competes with, the crustaceans. Pull back with one of the signature crispy rice and lentil crepes – Bangalore Dosai ($14) – before diving into richly flavoursome Goat Mappas ($23).

This Kerala-inspired curry combines tender goat, coconut milk and green chilli.With the distinctive sour tang of kokum, the Goan Fish Curry ($24) is worth the trip alone, particularly when mopped up with standout flatbreads like the Cheese Naan ($4.50).

1/274 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst (02) 9332 1755 malabarcuisine.com.au Indian $$-$$$

Dragoncello At first glance this deep brown Cleveland Street drinking den looks like a hipster bar, before it sucker punches you with layers of flavour and texture in a bar snack combining Morcilla,White Peach, Fennel and Salted Cinnamon Popcorn ($13).Work your way through list that includes a 62 Degree Egg ($7) on pea puree with smoked eel dashi poured tableside, and superfine Port and Poultry Pate ($11). Chef Roy McVeigh (exBerowra Waters Inn) shows off his playful side in BBQ Potato Gnocchi with Savoy Cabbage, Confit Garlic and Beurre Noisette ($28), then has me in raptures with a wild Indian Marsala dessert: Carrot Sorbet, White Chocolate andVadouvan ($16).

466 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills (02) 8399 0907 dragoncello.com.au Bar, Modern Australian $$$

Dachshund Coffee

By Jackie McMillan jackie@alternativemediagroup.com

INNER WEST PizzAperta The entry-level Manfredi is stylishly crafted to fit into the alcove below older sibling Balla, on the outside edge of The Star; right behind the large letters tourists love posing in. So grab an Aperol Spritz ($15) or a jug of Birra Moretti ($24) and a front row pew.Your pizza is served in a box, irrespective of whether you eat in, or take it with you.The point of difference is the lightness of the pizza - even my favourite double carb.

- Potato, Rosemary and Gorgonzola ($19) - looked like a Neapolitan pizza, but sat much less heavily. Meaning you can squeeze in an airy Roman focaccia, topped with Prosciutto, Burrata and

not just cosmetic.The attention to detail follows through into their produce selection, starting with Fat Poppy coffee, roasted in Seven Hills, and scrubbing up quite nicely in a Latte ($3.50) made on creamy Country Valley milk.The handcrafted Brickfields bread, brought in from Chippendale, makes an excellent platform for Reformed Avocado ($18.50), buried in a flurry of vine-ripened tomatoes, tabbouleh, quinoa, and crisp sage leaves. It’s a mountainous and filling meal, especially when topped off with a poached Egganic Egg ($4), hiding a deep yellow yolk.The weekday menu, including Zucchini and Goat’s Feta Fritters ($19.50) with red leaf and dill salad spiked with smoked ocean trout, is designed to be everyday food, while on weekends you’ll find some naughtier indulgences.

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

onion. Unctuous Crispy Pork Belly ($23) arrives capped with golden crackling, conveniently pre-sliced so there is no time wasted between its arrival and your shameless indulgence.

Shop 3, 4 Rangers Road, Cremorne (02) 9953 7072 chinaman.com.au Chinese $$ The Greens North Sydney The brains behind The Grounds of Alexandria have taken over the North Sydney Bowlo, where old guys in knee high socks have been bowling with views of Sydney Harbour for over 125 years. It’s basically The Grounds, with million dollar views. Try

a sultry Baby Beet Salad ($16) with candied walnuts, and apple. The Wagyu Beef Burger ($17) is an all-American classic diner burger; and although it’s something you’d normally eat in a booth, it works here, especially with the Americana college classic: the Watermelon Kegger ($32). If you’re after a ‘club’ meal, the inside area is quaint with antique memorabilia; perfect to take in Lamb Neck in Pastry ($24) with smoked carrot, peas and yoghurt.

54 Ridge Street, North Sydney (02) 9245 3099 thegreensnorthsydney.com.au Bar Food, Modern Australian $$

By Alex Harmon What started as a stall at the Good Food Markets, then set up shop in the Northern Beaches, has now arrived in Bondi.“It’s our first venture ‘over the Bridge,” says co-owner Ben Thomas,“we think it suits the Bondi lifestyle.” With the mantra,‘Eat More Green,’ we tend to agree. Using fresh, local ingredients and throwing in

Eggplant ($20) too.

The Star, 80 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont (02) 9777 9000 star.com.au/pizzaperta Pizza $$ EASTERN SUBURBS & BEACHES

Harry’s Bar and Dining A Bondi institution has joined the 21st century – this launderette-cumconvenience store is now a dining destination complete with organic produce, cold-pressed juices and paleo. options.The turquoise espresso machine delivers coffee married with almond and macadamia milk – the barista goes through five litres a day and it’s still not enough. For a fancy breakfast, try the Crispy Rolled Egg ($19.50) with black

a whole lot of Asian flavour, the salads are great option when you want something healthy but filling. Ben guides us through the menu of ‘sweet, savoury or chilli’ options and promises the popular Tokyo Classic ($14) won’t disappoint.These salads are huge – they’re a meal destination, not a stop-off in between.This salad is loaded with chicken coated in black sesame seeds, Chinese cabbage, big chunks of avocado, cherry tomatoes, green soba noodles and a sesame dressing. On the sweeter side, the Coconut Chicken with Crispy Egg Noodle ($14) is brimming with crunchy egg noodles in a tamarind and sesame dressing. Super hungry? Start with Tofu Rice Paper Rolls ($8), a textural experience with layers of peanuts, crisp bean sprouts, cucumber and soft layers of egg and tofu. It’s food that makes you feel good, so it’s surprising not to see a green juice bar behind the counter. Maybe the locals will protest.

18/2a Jaques Avenue, Bondi (0409) 908 364 eatmoregreen.com.au Pan Asian, Salads $

beans, chorizo, avocado, cherry tomatoes, coriander and lime. Lunchtime, the talk of the town is plump Seared Scallops ($18) with turmeric puree, and crispy parsnip and pomegranate chips. Dinner is small but excellent with Pan Roasted Holmbrae Chicken ($29) the standout.The Eton Mess ($12) is anything but untidy with micro herbs and Chantilly cream.

Shop 2/136 Wairoa Avenue, Bondi (02) 9310 2180 harrysespressobar.com.au Cafe $-$$ NEWTOWN & ENVIRONS Cuckoo Callay When it comes to the celebration of all things bacon, the entrance to Newtown Station is hardly the place you would expect to look.Yet, with its little window

FOOD NEWS

boxes of herbs and lovingly mismatched chairs, Cuckoo Callay has turned into an unlikely hub for a festival of swine.

Choose from eight swine-centric dishes and four bacon-infused drinks. Don’t Go Bacon My Heart ($19) alone contains five bacon elements: maple bacon, bourbon bacon, bacon steak, bacon sausage and bacon-crumbed poached eggs. Bacon sausage also features in the cracklingfilled Bacon Dawg ($16); while Ya Bacon Me Crazy ($20) teams a waffle with cinnamon ice-cream and maple-glazed and chocolate-covered bacon.All the bacon bits come from free-range Aussie pigs.

324 B, Newtown Railway Station, Newtown (02) 9557 7006 cuckoo-callay.com.au Café, Breakfast $$

By Jackie McMillan

THE GANTRY Walsh Bay has just become a bit more interesting with Pier One Hotel Sydney Harbour revitalising their restaurant space into The Gantry Restaurant and Bar. The menu, which celebrates local and sustainable provenance, is in the hands of the remarkably humble Executive Chef Chris Irving. Canadian-born Irving has cooked alongside Gordon Ramsay and been a private chef for The Beckhams.

As the sun drifted behind the neighbouring wharves, I joined hotel owner Robert Magid and over two hundred other guests, to sample canapés, including handpicked spanner crab with sambal wrapped in betel leaves. We were also treated to buffet stations including a tempting ice sculpture loaded with prawns, Balmain bugs and fresh uni provided by Jules Crocker from Joto Fresh Fish (who incidentally run my favourite weekend seafood market, Cleanfish Australia). Our lips were kept wet with two signature cocktails courtesy of Bar Manager Ben Taouss, a veteran of Pocket Bar. It was hard to pick a favourite between the Lady on the Pier, which updated the Pink Lady with lemon myrtle and elderflower, and the Swinging Monkey, that used coconut water to good effect in a spiced Monkey Shoulder whisky cocktail served over hand-chipped ice. www.thegantry.com.au

bar fly

By Amie Barbeler

DiWine Recently-single life involves me living off a diet of hotdogs and vodka-based girlie drinks, so while I was intimidated at the thought of checking out some swanky-sounding new Italian wine bar, I was also excited at the prospect of eating something that wasn’t wrapped in bread.

DiWine is a polished and sophisticated option for after work drinks and Italian tapas.The service is speedy and the morsels of food are perfectly presented; yet the atmosphere in the courtyard is relaxed.And when I stared blankly at the wine list, the staff were quick to explain the difference between a 2013 St Michael-Eppan Pinot Grigio ($12) and a 2012 Varvaglione Vigne e Vini Primitivo del

Salento ($9.50) to me. Basically, one’s red, one’s white and they’re both delicious.

While we swigged our wine, my date and I enjoyed the octopus carpaccio ($15)

before practically inhaling the figs with prosciutto and melted Gruyere ($25).

248 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst (02) 8354 1086 diwinesydney.com.au city hub 26 MArch 2015

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Songs in the Key of Black

RIVERRUN

Riverrun is an avant-garde, up and coming production at Sydney Theatre Company that is highly theatrical and not unlike a rock gig. By one of Ireland’s leading theatre makers Olwen Fouere, it’s adapted from Finnegan’s Wake by James Joyce; a book written nearly 100 years ago.

“I’m not doing the book as in I don’t read from it, but I’m doing an aspect of the book, extracting the voice of the river from it and tracing my own journey on it. I used the idea of the voice of the river, the River Liffey that flows through the centre of Dublin, the capital, but it’s all the rivers of the world actually, including the body’s own bloodstream, a torrent of experience using the river as a metaphor. The Irish meaning of the word Liffey is life,” explains Fouere.

Riverrun touches on world politics, the history of the universe and Irish history in an alternative form of communication. “It’s a very challenging text.

Best not try to decipher it, more experience it like a piece of music and let it wash over you,” says Fouere. (MS) Until 11 April 2015. Opening Night:Thursday 12 March 2015 at 8.15pm, Wharf 2, Sydney Theatre Company, Pier4/5 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay, Box Office: 02 9250 1777. sydneytheatre.com.au Tickets: $40 - $55

From highly personal stories of great hardship, the Baulkham Hills African Ladies Troupe brings you a surprisingly uplifting performance with this unlikely mix of violence, struggle and comedy.

Fresh from an acclaimed run in London’s Southbank Centre for the Women of the World Festival where diverse audiences applauded it, this Australian production is coming to the Sydney Opera House as part of the All About Women 2015 program.

After she “had a gutful of violence against women”, writer and director Ros Horin began looking to create something positive that would help break the silence.

When she went searching for women to share their stories of hardship and resilience, she had no idea that these remarkable women would end up front of stage. Three former refugees, one immigrant; all are Australian citizens, none of them professional actors…

After thirty years of working as an artistic director and writer, Ms Horin brought together these women and began workshopping a production incorporating African singing, drumming, dancing and comedy.

The African Ladies Troupe is breaking the silence on a universal issue and proving that through speaking out and seeking help, women can release themselves from the dark and painful inner world of violence.

As put by Ms Horin: “It is incredibly inspiring… the way these women have been put through hell and back and are still able to laugh.”

This will be the absolute last opportunity to gain intimate access to these never before seen stories. (AM) 26 – 29 March 2015, Sydney Opera House, $36 - $55, sydneyoperahouse.com.

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While other kids were watching cartoons on television, Lucy Maunder was absorbing MGM musicals. It was there she came across Irving Berlin’s, ‘Blue Skies’, and was hooked. “I wish I’d been born in another time”, says Maunder somewhat wistfully, as she prepares to reprise her knockout ‘one woman show’.

Songs in the Key of Black is a tribute to the song writing genius of Irving Berlin, who composed every one of his hit songs in the key of F sharp – he only ever used the piano’s black keys. A Jewish Russian immigrant, Berlin’s lyrics spoke to the ‘everyman’ of America.

Jerome Kern once said, “Irving Berlin has no place in American music – he is American music”.

“He is probably my favourite composer of the period”, says Maunder, “Because his lyrics are so simple, so clever and incredibly heartfelt.”

Propelled by a growing fascination with the Art Deco period, Sydney is rising to the occasion with little ‘speakeasy’ type bars popping up everywhere, so this show at the Hayes should fit right in.

“What I wanted to do was shine a light on the era because I love it so much”, says Maunder. “The vibe is infectious, the doors are locked, the teacups are full of gin and this is my little prohibition palace”. (GW) Tuesday 7 April to Saturday 11 April 7:30pm, Saturday 11 April 2pm, Sunday 12 April 5pm, Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point, $39, hayestheatre.com.au, 80657337.

The Baulkham Hills African Ladies Troupe 15 STAGE 16 SCENE 17 SCREEN 18 Sounds

Arts Editor: Erika Vass Assistant Arts Editor: Jamie Apps 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: Alexis Talbot-Smith, Anita Senaratna, Carmen Cita, Ciaran Tobin, Craig Coventry, Georgia Fullerton, Greg Webster, Hannah Chapman, Leann Richards, Marilyn Hetreles, Mark Morellini, Katie Rorison, Mel Somerville, Michael Muir, Michelle Porter, Nick Jewlachow, Peter Hackney, Rocio Belinda Mendez, Ruth Fogarty, Sarah Pritchard, Sharon Ye, Shauna O’Carroll, Siri Williams, Peter Scobie, Lisa Seltzer, Olga Azar, Elyssa King, Brendan Modini

Review: The Big Funk There’s something beneath the surface weirdness within John Patrick Shanley’s play The Big Funk, that most can relate to.The Tap Gallery provides the perfect intimacy for the Shanley’s 1990 story of love and life; its intricacy of issues delivered to the audience through a script that engages instantly through a careful balance between the comical and perverse ideas embedded within it.

Dynamo characters are where the play’s real power lies, with Jill (Alixandra Kupcik) overcoming deep rooted father issues after being lathered in petroleum jelly on a first date, whilst couple Fifi and Omar (Jess Loudon and Michael Drysdale) explore the lengths each is willing to go in order to support the other.

Each is executed convincingly in Suspicious Woman Productions’ performance. Comical moments proved thoroughly entertaining, whilst others where the play’s most poignant messages lay, were appropriately uncomfortable.

The first act is engaging with Fifi’s presence impossible to ignore, but it is the timing of subtle exchanges between Jill and her date, Gregory (Bali Padda is hilarious), that really hit the mark.With a slightly slower paced second act, the cast are able to maintain their drive. Austin’s (Jasper Garner Gore) closing monologue ties the play together in unforgettable fashion, the entire play enigmatically compelling. (CW)

360 Allstars If you find the idea of the circus a little bit passé, you’ll want to check out 360 Allstars before you write the idea off completely. “The idea is that we’re trying to reinvent the circus”, explains director and music maestro Gene Peterson, “and replace traditional circus art-forms with contemporary art-forms. All of these art-forms have that urban twist.”

This means replacing acrobats with BMX daredevils, traditional clowns with B-boys and your typical circus sounds with “live looping” – in which a soundscape is created and looped together using just a voice on a mic, a guitar effects pedal, and a loop station. “It’s more of an urban physical theatre piece; if anything…it’s a full-scale production and a full-scale theatre piece.” Peterson says, with an emphasis on rotation – involving bodies, bikes, basketballs and even sounds.

With an all-star cast sourced from all over the world, 360 Allstars has enjoyed sold-out shows worldwide, including a stint on Broadway. For their first time in New South Wales, Peterson and his talented cast and crew are looking forward to bringing this high-energy show to new audiences. “It’s a fun show,” Peterson says. “We’re happy to be witnessing so many people going away happy.” (SW) 24-28 March, Glen Street Theatre, Corner of Glen Street & Blackbutts Road, Belrose.Tickets $10 - $40, www.glenstreet.com.au, 02 9975 1455.

THEATRE & PERFORMANCE AllThat Jazz: Jam Nights atthe 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 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 likeValda, a spritely woman in her nineties who plays a mean French horn.This regular event fosters the 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 atTheWorld Bar, 24 Bayswater Road Potts Point. FREE. DREAM HOME IIn an idealistic world, everyone wants to move into his or her stable home and live the perfect life with perfect surroundings. However, in the up-andcoming production, by David Williamson, things are not always what they seem.Williamson takes a spin on the idealistic lifestyle of a perfect couple

and turns their lives around with an exlover, jealous husband and kleptomaniacs for neighbours. (EV) Jan 31-Mar 28, EnsembleTheatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli, $25-$69, 02 9929 0644, ensemble.com.au Freak Winds Determined to revive the seminal productions of its edgy history, Red Line Productions has managed to lure Marshall Napier’s classic Freak Winds back to the Old Fitzroy Theatre. In a deserted neighbourhood on a stormy night, brash insurance salesman Henry Crumb (Ben O’Toole) invades the home of the reclusive Ernest (Napier) and his enigmatic companion Myra (Anna Bamford). Before long, the evening takes on a series of surprising and increasingly macabre turns, blending humour with genuine horror in the claustrophobic venue that is ‘the Old Fitz’.“It’s the ideal venue for a play like this”, says Napier, who having created the play, is also acting and directing.

From its humble beginnings, Freak Winds has found audiences internationally, including a season in

NewYork.“The exposure was unexpected”, admits Napier.“When I wrote it, I genuinely thought it would have a very small audience. It’s hardly mainstream but its appeal was a lot broader than I had imagined”.A writing twist brought upon by a nasty accident has seen some last minute changes to the storyline.“I smashed my tibia so I had to do a rewrite to accommodate my incapacity”, says Napier. (GW) Until 11 April,Tuesday – Saturday, 7:30pm, Sunday 5pm, Old FitzroyTheatre, 129 Dowling Street,Woolloomooloo, $32, www. oldfitztheatre.com, 0422198955 Madama Butterfly When Madama Butterfly was first performed at La Scala at the turn of the twentieth century it was a resounding flop. Puccini quickly revised the opera.

Several months later his new production was a smash hit with Italian audiences. Over the subsequent century, Madama Butterfly has become one of most popular operas of all time.

The tragic story of a young fifteen year old Japanese girl who is married to a two-timing American sailor is brought

to life by Opera Australia.This excellent production captures Puccini’s genius completely.The stage, an elegant Japanese house, is exquisitely simple.

Greek soprano AlexiaVoulgaridou plays Madama Butterfly brilliantly. Her vocal mastery of the part evokes the most emotional aspects of the opera. Her despicable husband, Pinkerton is performed by the Australian tenor, James Egglestone, who was resoundingly booed at the curtain call, indicating he succeeds at being a perfect cad. (DG, DC) Shotgun The Rock Surfers Theatre Company’s stellar January to June season continues this month with the infinitely intimate production, Shotgun.Away from their home by the beach,The Rock Surfers have taken to the road, teaming up with Spectrum Now Festival to present this unique, world premiere – in a parked car, deep within the Domain car park.A parked car may not seem the most obvious choice for a theatrical production. However the Rock Surfers have taken the initiative, seizing the

opportunity to respond to growing interest in site-specific performances that offer audiences alternative theatrical experiences. Designed for an audience of three, this microperformance will present darkly comical confessional monologues presented by some of Sydney’s best actors.Adding another layer of playfulness to Spectrum Now Festival, audiences will be hand-picked at random from the crowds of the whimsical Spectrum Playground to take part in this ten minute performance.

(JH) Until 22nd March, the Spectrum Playground,The Domain, free entry, http:// rocksurfers.org/shotgun/ Riverrun Riverrun is an avant-garde, up and coming production at Sydney Theatre Company that is highly theatrical and not unlike a rock gig. (MS) Until 11 April 2015. Opening Night: Thursday 12 March 2015 at 8.15pm, Wharf 2, SydneyTheatre Company, Pier4/5 Hickson Road,Walsh Bay, Box Office: 02 9250 1777. sydneytheatre.com.au Tickets: $40 - $55 city hub 26 MARCH 2015

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T H E NA K ED CIT Y

Tunnel Vision!

By Coffin Ed and Miss Death and Jay Katz As reported in last week’s edition, there’s been a cruel attempt to ban buskers from the Devonshire Street tunnel with bogus “not authorised” signs supposedly issued by Sydney Trains. Thankfully, it’s all been revealed as a prank or a cunning deception – perhaps the work of some killjoy out to silence every busker in town.

It does however highlight the cultural and social significance of this conduit of seething humanity. Originally part of the Metropolitan Goods line linking Central with Darling Harbour, it has served the city well for decades – a home to hundreds if not thousands of buskers over the years and a canvas for a vibrant display of civic murals.

Bubbling and bustling during the day, it can also be freaky to traverse during the wee small hours as shadowy and threatening figures approach like in a film noir, from your distant view. There’s no turning back once you have reached the half way mark, even when a bunch of drunken hoons fill its cavernous dimensions with a series of ear splitting screams.

Nevertheless, its daytime bon vivant makes up for any nocturnal dangers as you are swept along in an endless procession of students, office workers, shoppers and pensioners heading for a day out in the city. Where else in this great metropolis can you surround yourself with such a mobile mass of fellow Sydneysiders, striding out with both purpose and an all embracing sense of the common good?

We even know of some folks, so keen to mingle with the community at large, who do three or four laps of the tunnel each day, spurred on by the ever-changing line-up of buskers and street performers. It’s the latter who provide an almost seamless soundtrack for your three to four minute journey

from Central to George Street or vice versa. As the echoing sounds of the buskers morph into each other, it’s as if you have been thrust into some enormous audio concrete mixer, spewed out at the other end to the dissipating strains of a Bob Marley medley.

God, we love the Devonshire Street tunnel and a pox on that shameless prankster who tried to shut the buskers down - may you run the gauntlet of ferocious muggers at 4.00am in the morning. We would even love to see the Council and State Government acknowledge its cultural significance by staging a number of special events during the coming Vivid Festival. Everybody has seen the Opera House lit up (yawn), but what about the good old Devo Street tunnel?

The sheer elongated length of this urban icon would lend itself to a projected version of the 2002 cinema classic Russian Ark. As you might remember, this remarkable movie was all shot in the one take and tunnel goers could experience a similar unedited encounter as they stroll from one end to another. The walls would be transformed into the interior of the Winter Palace in Saint Petersburg and actors (NIDA students would do) could be positioned every four or five metres to recreate the most important scenes.

Punters would even be encouraged to interact and shake their hands. Surely the experience of clasping mitts with Peter The Great, Tsar Nicholas or even Catherine The Great (a cameo of course from Clover Moore) would surpass the predictable boredom of Morrissey at the Opera House, instructing all and sundry that eating a snag sandwich was akin to an act of paedophilia.

THE HIT LIST: Check out two exciting young trios at Foundry 616 this Thursday 26. The Curran/Rapp/Thomas Trio are joined by the Farrar/Brown/Ryan Trio as they push the boundaries of modern music and explore a very contemporary soundscape. www.foundry616.com.au

Toys Through Time ‘Toys Through Time’ is a delightful new exhibition coming to the Museum of Sydney. From the 28th of March onwards this unique installation will feature over 200 original toys, some of the oldest dating back to the early 19th century. Both adults and children alike are encouraged to wander and explore through several generations of cherished wooden dolls, tin soldiers, rocking horses, LEGO figurines and much more.

Exhibition curator Bob Whight encourages the playful nature of the exhibition and explains that many aspects will be interactive, allowing a ‘hands on’ experience for the little ones.

“Toys are a subject that appeals to children as much as adults and that’s why we’ve made it a space where children can enjoy themselves as well; where they can play and get their hands on both traditional and contemporary toys and participate in craft activities” For adults,‘Toys Through Time’ is more likely to be a nostalgic experience.

“I think what we really hope to create is that sense of nostalgia; where people find themselves thinking ‘I remember having one of those’.We want to trigger these memories and encourage people to reflect on what they might have stored away, and realise how special it is to carry toys from childhood right through to our adult lives”. (SM) For more information visit http://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/exhibitions/toys

Redlands Konica Minolta Art Prize The 19th annual Redlands Konica Minolta Art Prize is anything but staying within the lines this year, with national artists hand-picked by industry leaders and a creative cohesion traversing generations.

This reputable contest offers two separate prizes; the established artist prize supported by Konica Minolta ($25,000); and the emerging artist prize supported by Glenburn Pastoral Company ($10,000). There are no regulations regarding which mediums to use in the works or which subject matter to cover, resulting in a diverse range of mediums. These two sought-after prizes will be presented at the National Art School Gallery (NAS Gallery), from the 26th of March until the 23rd of May 2015.

Tim Johnson, 1999 prize winner of this esteemed award and this year‘s leading curator, has selected twenty-two Australian contemporary artists for the 2015 Redlands Konica Minolta Art Prize. “There is so much exciting and original work around today that finding artists has not been difficult. Interestingly, there are

exhibitions CIRCUS FACTORY The display is interactive. On the ground level visitors can experience a live thrill from the talented Circa acrobatic team, swirl a hula hoop, get lost in a hall of mirrors, juggle and ride a fully operational carousel.The next section features a historical collection of costumes and information about the famous Wirth circus family, including an amazing, century old photo of the world renowned equestrienne May Wirth, tumbling backwards from one galloping horse to another.

Meanwhile, the basement hosts a collection of odd coin-operated 16

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animatronics. Down here the skull of truth will tell your fortune while Tommy will throw a tantrum for the right price.This is an exploration and adventure through the colour, joy, eccentricity and chicanery of itinerant performance in an Australian setting.The opportunity to play, combined with the carnivalesque atmosphere is a reminder of older times when entertainment was not confined within a hand held device.

(LR) Until May 3, Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris St, Ultimo, $35/Free for up to 3 children, powerhousemuseum.com CoSydney Finding a space to work and be creative is a hard balance to achieve.

CoSydney is a formal yet innovative

some Australian artists receiving international recognition who still have a fairly low profile here that I’ve sought to include.” Said Mr Johnson.

Redlands has a proud tradition consisting of acquiring the winning art works and placing them in their permanent collection. These pieces themselves are not for sale, but all other exhibited works in the Annual Redlands Art Prize competition will be available for purchase at the free exhibition presented at the National Art School Gallery.

“For the 2015 Redlands Konica Minolta art prize, I have invited a diverse range of artists in order to reflect the wide spectrum of art being made here in Australia. As an artist myself, I feel artists themselves know what they do best and should have the freedom to participate on their own terms.” (RBM) Mar 26-May 23, National Art School, Forbes Street, Darlinghurst, free, nas.edu.au

space whereby people from all workplaces are able to go and utalise the space.CoSydney was founded by Vinh van Lam as he wanted to provide a foundation for people to be able to connect and network their ideas and work.“I believe that CoSydney provides people the opportunity to leave the house and get work done,” Vinh van Lam explains,“We provide a space where people can come and visit, use our facilities and associate with one another. Initially, I wanted to create a space where I could support the art industry, so I have created a space of four floors.” Each floor is dedicated to different aspects of art, work, business functions and leisurely

activities.The environment is very quiet and secluded from the hub-bub of Sydney which allows people to focus and achieve their goals.“What we ultimately want to achieve with CoSydney is for people to be relaxed, comfortable and get the most out of the space.We provide workshops, seminars and even cooking classes so that people can still feel like their at home but in a different environment,” Vin van Lam said. (EV) For more information: http:// cosydney.com.au/ Caress/ Ache Suzie Miller‘s newest production Caress / Ache is brushing its way past Sydney theatre-goers this March– April at the Griffin Theatre Company.

Theatre director, dramaturge and teacher Anthony Skuse works closely with Miller on the production, breathing life into this montage-like performance. Inspired partly by the tragic Singaporean man who was executed for drug trafficking and denied a single, final hug from his desperate, wanting mother. (RBM) Until Apr 11, Griffin Theatre Company, 13 Craigend Street, Kings Cross, $35-50, griffintheatre.com.au TOWERS OF TOMORROW A plethora of multicoloured, glistening bricks, begging to be fondled and clicked are an irresistible lure to both children and adults and are sure to be the most popular aspect of the show.The display

features prominent edifices of Australia and South East Asia which have been built to scale by Lego engineer Ryan McNaught. It includes the beautiful, shining, Petronas Towers, Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands, the Eureka building in Melbourne, and a model of Barangaroo.The highlight is the opportunity to play with 200,000 rainbow pieces.This is an immersive experience which will appeal to enthusiasts of architecture and design and is sure to inspire the creativity of the next generation. (LR) Until April 19, Museum of Sydney, Cnr Philip & Bridge St, Sydney, $5-15 or $45 family ticket, sydneylivingmuseums.com.au

THE DIVERGENT SERIES: INSURGENT

A WILL FOR THE WOODS

This action-packed sequel to the 2014 box office hit Divergent contains many twists which should leave legions of fans anticipating the next instalment.

Set days after the end of Divergent,Tris (Shailene Woodley) leaves the compound with boyfriend Tobias (Theo James) in search of allies, while scorned leader Jeanine Matthews (Kate Winslet) is on their trail.

This respectable sequel contains numerous death defying action sequences and is visually stunning, especially in the 3D format.

High-calibre actress Kate Winslet leads a predominantly young cast in this fanciful science fiction film, which loses momentum in the second half as the plot intensifies. Intricacies in storylines overshadowed by mesmerizing visuals may lead to confusion, notably for movie-goers who have not read the books.

Aimed at the younger audience, this film is made to a winning formula like The Hunger Games Trilogy, achieving a successful transition from literary to cinematic platform. (MMo) WWW

Is it something of a contradiction that we recycle our waste products only to have our humanly remains embalmed in toxic fluids and buried in caskets made from two trees?

Alternatively should we cremate our loved ones when fuels burn at high temperatures releasing gases into the atmosphere?

This thought-provoking documentary explores green burial, an unconventional but natural way of handling the deceased, unhazardous to the environment and restoring the dead to re-useable materials in the cycle of life.

Audiences will journey with Clarke Wang, a strong willed psychiatrist and musician suffering with lymphoma, as he prepares for his own green burial.

Through insightful interviews, family movies and photos we connect with this brave and inspirational man, whose last act is not to pollute the planet.

Desperately moving and humorous at times, this multi-award winning documentary aims to spread awareness as a staggering 86% of Americans are oblivious to green burials. (MMo) WWW½

A Most Violent Year It’s the winter of 1981, the New York heating oil industry is not necessarily for gangsters, neither is it scrupulously honest.Abel Morales owns Standard Oil and stakes his future on purchasing an oil terminal, pays a 40% deposit, agreeing to settle in 30 days – or lose the deposit. Meantime, his delivery trucks are being hijacked and his drivers are terrorised by an unknown adversary.Then the Assistant DA, the ubiquitous David Oyelowo, decides to investigate his business practices.What will the bank he needs to fund the terminal purchase make of all this? It’s a ripping yarn of almost Shakespearian proportions with a Godfather/Mario Puzo ambience.

Abel (Oscar Isaac) is someone you warm to; he has cojones – three of them! Writer/Director J. C Chandor also made last year’s brilliant All is Lost (Robert Redford) and I cannot wait to see what he does next. It’s unlikely 2015 will see a drama more thrilling than this. (MM) WWWW½ Citizen Four Born 1737, a supporter of the American and French Revolutions, accused of being a traitor to his country and irreligious, Englishman Thomas Paine answered: “My country is the world, and my religion is to do good.” Likewise, Edward Snowden had the world in mind when he selflessly and irredeemably compromised his own life by revealing the massively-intrusive, global intelligence-gathering of the National Security Agency.

Acclaimed documentary-maker Laura Poitras is contacted by a mysterious ‘citizenfour’ and they meet in Hong Kong, in June 2013, where he presents classified documents to prove his story. But how you take something this momentous and make the account dull is a strange achievement indeed? Perhaps the scoop aspect overwhelmed some of the niceties of film-making. Everyone should know the message of Edward

Snowden but whether this particular documentary is the best way to become acquainted is a moot point. (MMu) WW½ Eastern Boys Eastern Boys is a controversial new film from France which will intimidate and unnerve audiences.When middleage Daniel (Olivier Rabourdin) invites a young male prostitute named Marek (Kirill Emelyanov) into his apartment for a discreet meeting, he inadvertently falls into a trap and has a gang of illegal immigrants to contend with.This is the catalyst to a psychological journey of danger and desire Performances are powerful, notably from Daniil Vorobyev who is incredibly frightening as ‘Boss’, the deranged leader of the gang.The script is risqué and gritty, effectively combining gang culture and the story of a building homosexual relationship. Sexual content is highly graphic which may offend some viewers. Eastern Boys is a suspenseful and provocative film which will leave audiences cautious about who they invite into their homes. (MMo) WWW½ FOXCATCHER Heir to a massive fortune and leading a life of privilege, John DuPont decides to fund and ‘coach’ a group of American wrestlers to Olympic glory.Wrestling is merely the setting for a story that explores notions of wealth, privilege, power, weakness, manipulation and aspiration.The story revolves around three characters: DuPont (Carrell), wrestling bothers Mark Schultz (Channing Tatum) and his older brother Dave (Mark Ruffalo).

Carrell most certainly deserves an Oscar nomination. He portrays Du Pont as self-important, controlling, needful and distinctly creepy; but ultimately – pathetic, sad and tragic.

Both Carrell’s performance and the film itself are totally mesmerising.

Don’t miss this. (MMu) WWWW½ PAPER PLANES Sam Worthington takes time off from his busy filming schedule in Hollywood to star in a small Australian film

which should delight holiday moviegoers.The story surrounds 11 yearold Dylan (Ed Oxenbould) and his dream to participate in the world paper plane championships in Japan.

Worthington delivers his best performance to date as Jack, Dylan’s father, who is grief stricken after tragedy strikes.The love of his child and his involvement in this sport helps Jack rebuild his shattered life.

The original and simplistic nature of the story ensures audiences of all ages warm to this children’s film, which is written with just the right balance of sensitivity and humour.

Paper Planes encourages children to be imaginative and is one of the better Australian films produced in recent years. (MMo) WWW½ MOONLIGHT CINEMA Australia’s favourite outdoor cinema is the perfect time to sit back, relax and enjoy some great movies, screening advance previews, contemporary, classic and cult movies on the lawn of Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park.

Nab the best seats (bean bags) in the house (grass).‘Gold Grass’ tickets are available for $35 if you book ahead to secure your place.

Nothing goes better with a movie then some delicious LA Street food, like some nachos, southern fried chicken burgers, New Yorker chilli dogs and a fully licensed bar to keep you nice and hydrated. (CT) Until Mar 29, Centennial Park, $14-$35, moonlight.com.au MR TURNER The latest masterpiece from director Mike Leigh (Another Year) is a stunning, albeit warts-and-all, portrait of J.M.W.Turner, the eccentric English artist whose creative endeavours polarised public opinion throughout his tumultuous life.The meandering pace and sombre tone won’t appeal to everyone but Mr.Turner is a rewarding experience for patient viewers with Dick Pope’s cinematography a particular highlight — the meticulously crafted shots channelling the grandeur of Turner’s haunting landscape paintings are simply breathtaking.

(JH) WWWW

PADDINGTON StudioCanal’s most expensive movie ever is about a talking marmalade-addicted Peruvian bear that goes to London when an earthquake destroys his home and uncle. Luckily for Paddington a wealthy family offers him hospice and try to help him find a new home.This kid’s movie is full of laugh out loud moments that both old and young will enjoy.A charming but honest portrayal of London has just the right amount of Poppins to delight. (PS) WWWW SELMA The third feature from LA filmmaker Ava DuVernay chronicles Martin Luther King Jr’s legendary struggle to secure equal voting rights for African-Americans, with a focus on his frustrated efforts to lead a peaceful procession from Selma to Montgomery,Alabama in 1965.The era’s pervading climate of racism is convincingly depicted – scenes of police brutality unsettle, as do King’s vitriolic adversaries (“He’s a political and moral degenerate,” one spouts) – but it never feels gratuitous nor does it detract from the film’s core objective: celebrating the dignity and courage with which King and his cohorts faced great injustice.

Selma is a stirring and nuanced docudrama anchored by strong performances, especially David Oyelowo as King and Tom Wilkinson as conflicted U.S. President, Lyndon Johnson. (JH) WWWW Rosewater Iranian-Canadian Journalist Maziar Bahari was detained in an Iranian prison for 118 days under suspicion of being a spy. Set in 2009, this drama details his plight as he was blindfolded and brutally interrogated daily whilst an aroma of rosewater permeated the air. High production values abound and solid performances are delivered from a cast led by Gael Garcia Bernal.Actual footage cleverly edited into the film complements and adds credence to a shocking story.Adversely, the script contains many humorous moments which detract, slightly tarnishing the dramatic impact of

the story. Part of a wave of similar films depicting the horrendous maltreatment of people, their survival and resilience, Rosewater may have very limited appeal.

(MMo)WWW That Sugar Film This is the film which the food industry may not want people to see.

Insightful and compelling, the health issues relating to sugar are raised by an investigation when a man embarks on a high-sugar diet for 60 days. Damon Gameau directs and fronts this documentary, consuming foods and drinks with a combined 40 teaspoons of sugar each day and the results are astonishing.

Brilliantly written and researched with fascinating interviews, audiences will be enthralled as mindboggling facts and figures are revealed. Innovative in its format, this frisky and upbeat documentary doesn’t attempt to distil negativity and hopelessness, but instead aims to spread awareness about the choices we make concerning our diets and the need for change.With surprise appearances by Hugh Jackman and Stephen Fry, this is the most important and life-changing film you will ever see. (MMo) WWWW THE IMITATION GAME This stylish and engrossing thriller based on actual events during World War II surrounds Alan Turing, an English Mathematician and logician whose cryptanalyst skills helped crack the enigma code (decode German naval communications). His achievements incredibly shortened the war by two years and saved an estimated two million lives.A brilliant script and wonderful ensemble cast led by Benedict Cumberbatch as Turing and Keira Knightley as his love interest bring this extraordinary story to life.The film is humorous and poignant at times as it progresses through the high and low periods of Turing’s life.

The Imitation Games contains no war action but is fast paced and

complemented by archival footage and a magnificent score. (MMo) WWWW Theory of Everything “I thought he was me,” says Stephen Hawking about Eddie Redmayne’s performance, a role which has already scored him several prestigious awards as Best Actor and sees him nominated for a dozen others – including the Oscar.

It’s the highlight of a film that could be described as ‘A Country Practice meets cosmology’; a standard biopic about a truly outstanding individual.

But very enjoyable all the same: it is by turns moving and funny, with much hilarity coming from Hawking’s own waggish humour.

The Professor says he was ‘honoured and humbled’ by the film but must have been disappointed that the focus is on a life he’s always avoided talking about rather than his ground-breaking work. Perhaps though his attitude to the eternal versus the transitory was summedup on social media when he said,“It would be an empty universe indeed without the people that I love.”

(MMu) WWW½ UNBROKEN Jolie’s astute directing ability is apparent as she manages to extract optimum performances from the cast. Jack O’Connell who shares an uncanny resemblance with Zamperini is a natural in the lead role. Japanese Army Corporal Watanabe known as “the Bird”, is a psychotic sadist and is effectively portrayed by Takmasa Ishihara.Audiences will be tormented by the atrocities he commits and his welcome to the prisoners:“You are enemies of Japan and will be treated accordingly…” will long be remembered.The extreme brutality Zamperini endured and his race against death will shock but ultimately his need to meet and forgive his captors in later years will inspire. Filmed entirely in Australia, Unbroken is an unforgettable film set in one of the darkest chapters in history and is a resounding experience. (MMo) WWWW city hub 26 MARCH 2015

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Sydney Live Music Guide LIVE WIRE

By Jamie Apps SpiritValley: Drawing influence from their earlier experiences in rave culture SpiritValley create a trippy modern psychedelic sound which blends guitar, tribal dance drums and sidechained bass lines.Touring up and down the east coast in support of their recently released debut album Give Trance A Chance before heading overseas to Europe & the USA. Thu, Mar 26,Tio’s Isaiah B Brunt: Sydney’s own blues man return home to launch his recently recorded new album Just The Way It Goes. Brunt is returning from an overseas jaunt to New Orleans to record and capture the true southern vibe on this release. During the launch party Brunt will be accompanied by acclaimed piano man Don Hopkins, a percussion section, flute and full band on drums, bass and organ.The night is sure to move from simple acoustic sounds right up into a fuller sound with laid-back beats and uptempo grooves.

Thu, Mar 26, Spring Street Social

By jamie apps

draw influence from a broad range of areas such as hip-hop, bass heavy reggae and all spectrums of concert jazz.This group can take their perforce in any direction possible while still capturing the heart and soul of jazz.

Thu, Mar 26, Foundry 616

From April, the esteemed World Bar known for its thriving party atmosphere, will welcome some brand new, young and upcoming talent into their halls.

With the event only recently being announced, the response has been incredible with over 20 bands already signed up to showcase their talents. Competition director Denny Burgess was very enthusiastic when speaking about the response.“In this day and age with all of the restrictions, it’s hard to get the venues for starters, then it’s hard to get the bands for one reason or another, but this time the bands have responded absolutely incredibly.”

As a former musician himself as part of the Masters Apprentices, Burgess was extremely passionate and driven to help give something back to the industry and help young bands gain some exposure.“As an old muso (sic) myself, I know how hard it is for bands to make it playing original music. It’s like beating your head against a brick wall at times. So we love putting on these

Northeast Party House: In one last hoorah for their debut album Any Given Weekend this 5-piece band will make one more loop around the country before heading back into the studio to write new material for the follow up release.This weekend will see them arrive in Sydney for two shows an over 18’s gig on Friday and an all ages show on Sunday at The Lair.

Fri, Mar 27, Oxford Arts Factory Shivon Coehlo: The Sydney songstress returns after home after two years abroad in England with a debut EP Tales of a Songbird to showcase.With her heartfelt descriptive lyrics Shivon has crafted a beautiful first release that is sure to have folk fans clamouring to see her perform them live this weekend.

Sat, Mar 28, Glebe Markets Woollahra Philharmonic Orchestra: Performing a trio of beloved favourites of Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances, Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante forViolin, Viola and Orchestra and finally Schubert’s Symphony No. 8 (The Unfinished Symphony).

Sun, Mar 29, Saint Francis Assisi Church

types of events to give young bands some exposure and a chance to perform and play to decent crowds.”

In regards to judging the competition, audience participation is not just recommended. It is in fact crucial during the heats as these will be decided purely by an audience vote.The semi-finals and finals will welcome aboard a judging panel of industry professionals to decide the winners of the following prizes: 1st Prize: Paid gig at MUM (The World Bars Friday Night Event) and a feature article by Music NSW 2nd Prize: Performance slot at UBERfest 3rd Prize: Photo shoot with Stone Photography

Beth Hart Better Than Home

At a time when Aussie hip-hop has plenty of talented artists bringing new and interesting ideas to the genre, we have yet another arrival on the scene with Bankstown local Ravin.

Drawing on his experiences growing up in Sydney’s southwest and his Australian/Samoan heritage, Ravin weaves an intricate and powerful web.TSoulfood is such an apt title for his release as the lyrics exude the passion and sense that this was truly nourishing endeavour for Ravin’s soul. (JA)

Turn it up a little bit. Beth Hart’s Better Than Home is meant to be played at high volumes. Beth Hart’s sympathetic sounds in her slightly husky, powerfully lyrical voice are for every mood. Her voice is matched by her song writing ability, combining the two in this heartfelt album. Beth Hart has given the world another album to live by and to inspire when it’s most needed. (SP)

WWW½

WWW½

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Looking ahead the goal of the competition, the planning committee is hoping to see this concept become an annual event so that “it builds a reputation and so bands that win get a real boost out of it to go play more professional gigs”, said Burgess.

One of this year’s entrants is a young local band known as RYSE that have been together for around a year.“We’re basically just a bunch of friends playing music and taking inspiration from Muse,Arctic Monkeys and Tool while using lots of different sounds effects and soundscapes to create something that people have never heard before.With the competition being at such a cool venue we thought it looked like a lot of fun so we signed up straight away.” said Brendan Greene.

Currently, there a still a limited number of slots available in the heats for any other bands that would like to get involved.

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

Back in the 1990s massage places like Kings Court were illegal but at the same time they were prolific with most suburbs having at least one brothel and one massage place. They were usually upstairs in older strip shopping centres and in some cases in suburban houses in low income areas. Some were very well decked out in quality streets in Kings Cross and even in the City. Some, like our place, were quite large and famous.

We needed to advertise and looked around at likely places. We were unable to get into the Australian version of Playboy which we thought represented our style but soon after we were approached by Australian Penthouse and we soon developed a relationship that has lasted until this day. We were developing Kings Court to be the largest of all the massage places and because we didn’t do full service we wanted to look different to those other places. It was decided to try some cartoon advertising.

I recalled that as a child I had read Mandrake Comics in the last page of the Womans Weekly and I figured that the best place to have cartoon advertising was on the inside back cover so people could easily find us in the same place each time. So we began. The concept was to let people know about us and try to influence them that we were providing “harmless fun for men” and these cartoons were good for that. We also wanted to make the cartoons have stories so that each time the readers would have a look to see what was happening next.

Kings Court Massage: 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.

Have a coffee and enjoy the friendly atmosphere. Approachable managers help you choose a lady for your massage. There is a fair queueing system and no hidden charges. Just along from Centrail Railway at 261 Parramatta Rd Glebe, Sydney NSW 2007 - Phone 02 9660 0666 - Its an $9.00 Taxi Ride from the CBD - Visit our web site at www.kingscourt.com.au - OPEN 10 am to 1 am and

This kind of colour advertising was very expensive to create but we were able to find a talented cartoonist and I learned how to use Quark Express to make the ads on my Mac computer. We found a place to make the separations and do the proofs. In those days desk top publishing 24 hrs on Weekends. 20% off 9 am to 12 noon & FREE ENTRY before 9 pm each day.

Parking available in the Broadway Shopping Centre near our discreet rear entrance at 18 Grose St Glebe. was just beginning and the files had to be Check out the website for information, funny stuff and pictures of pretty women. No photos of the regular delivered on Zip Disks that were mailed girls as they are too shy. www.kingscourt.com.au back to us and later on that changed to CDs which were cheap enough to be I hope the above gives you an idea about the way Kings Court discarded. Today this advert is produced as a PDF and sent off by email.

Massage is run and about our ethics. I have a Facebook page at The above advert was the first we made and it has stood the test of time. www.facebook.com/KingsBigJohn The “Relaxing Massage” panel had to be clothed for placement in family It is loaded with some amazing funny stuff, jokes, links and videos. Some newspapers. The only complaints we received were from readers who were of it is a bit naughty but there is nothing you could not show your mother. offended by the second panel where Jack says “I am worn out and I get no Big John sympathy when I get home. This must have struck a chord with some VACANCIES ladies and I apologise. The characters We are currently looking for new ladies who would like to be a little bit Jack and Tom are actually shown over naughty. It is a safe place for them, where they do not have to do full time in the following strips to be young service and everyone knows someone who could handle a bit of a discrete guys around town that the older men financial boost. Note that if you introduce her you cannot become her are envious of. They are actually customer. Big John does not ask for favours from the girls either. It suits a shown to be single. We do have girl with busy life style as we have part time and casual shifts and when customers who are married and we are you start we get one of the regular girls to show you how to do your first discreet about this but we think Kings massage. We have off street parking for ladies with cars and for your Court Massage is actually harmless interview you can park in the Broadway Shopping Centre parking near fun. We later rebuilt this first advert so our discreet rear entry at 18 Grose Street Glebe 2037. This address is the that we could publish it in some of the best way to find us using GPS plotting. If you look at the website at Asian colour papers and this is an www.kingscourt.com.au and click on “is this your first time” this will take example of the spa scene remake: you to a page of tips we need customers to know about Kings Court. city hub 26 MARCH 2015

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For the first time in thirty years this election is being fought over the environment because the Greens have driven the agenda.

We have always said YES to public transport and NO to WestConnex and NO to CSG. We have never accepted donations from the coal or gas industry or big developers.

We have always opposed the sale of public housing, our electricity network and cuts to TAFE. Liberal and Labor governments supported each other to approve CSG mining across the State and to fund WestConnex. Both are now distancing themselves from these decisions. Their record proves that they have always stood with each other and against affected communities.

Authorised by Chris Harris for The Greens, 275 Broadway, Glebe NSW 2037.