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BEAUTIFUL BECKETT’S

CITY HUB MAY 2021

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Finding expression through photography (See p. 10-11)

Communities plus what? BY DANIEL LO SURDO hen the NSW Government announced plans last November to redevelop the social housing estates of the City of Sydney, what followed a fleeting emotion of relief was a sustained, unprecedented feeling of panic. Much of the affordable housing of South Eveleigh, North Eveleigh and Glebe had been without proper maintenance for years, and a State-backed renewal project seemed a positive reaction to the vocal cries for higher living standards in the inner-city. It wasn’t until project designs were released to social housing tenants, attached to the notices of relocation in their letterboxes, did the waves of trepidation throughout the edges of the CBD truly begin. The City of Sydney housing redevelopments were part of the NSW Government’s Communities Plus program - a $22 billion large scale building project aimed at renewing the social housing portfolio throughout the state. As part of Communities Plus, approximately 70 per cent of the innercity’s social housing would be privatised to deliver about 3000 new, private highdensity dwellings across the targeted redevelopment sites. NSW Parliament Member for Newtown Jenny Leong maintains the program offers no tangible gain for the social housing tenants of the inner-city. “[Communities Plus] is nothing about communities, it’s about the plus,” Leong told City Hub. “The plus is the amount of profit that will go to private developers.”

HubARTS: I Want To Know What Love Is “things may go wrong but... we only have each other to lean on” (See p. 21)

PUBLISHED DATE 13 MAY 2021 Published weekly and freely available throughout the Inner City. Copies are also distributed to serviced apartments, hotels, convenience stores and newsagents throughout the city. Distribution enquiries call 9212 5677. Published by Altmedia Pty Ltd. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content, we take no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions. ABN 52 600 903 348 Group Editor & Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons Publisher Assistant: Mal Moody Advertising Managers: Mal Moody 0484 042 615 Dan Kinsela 0480 362 148 Advertising: sales@altmedia.net.au News Editor: Allison Hore Contributors: Allison Hore, Lucinda GarbuttYoung, Andrew Woodhouse, Daniel Lo Surdo Cartoonist: Sam Mcnair Arts Editor: Jamie Apps Contributors: Irina Dunn, Madison Behringer, Mark Morellini, Renee Lou Dallow, Rida Babar, Olga Azar, Patrick McKenzie & Jarrod Wolfhunter

BALANCING THE BOOKS

City Hub understands that the 70:30 private and social housing split part of the Communities Plus program has

Protesters took to the streets to mark 30 years of inaction since the Royal Commission. Photo: Allison Hore

stemmed from the NSW Land and Housing Corporation’s requirements to function on a revenue-neutral model, whereby the State’s most valuable land - much of which located in the City of Sydney - are being cannibalised so that redevelopments incur minimal expenditure. Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Wollongong Alistair Sisson believes the approach will only accelerate the growing pockets of disadvantage in the rapidly gentrifying inner-city. “We shouldn’t be expecting what is really a vital part of the welfare state to be paying for itself,” Sisson told City Hub.

It’s very explicitly designed to change the communities “To be handing [public land] over to the private sector to make pretty huge profits in exchange for a very, very marginal increase in the number of social housing units, in some cases no real increase … is a really, really terrible deal for the public in general.” With Communities Plus focusing on predominantly high-density housing, there is concern that the redevelopment will deliver no net gain in bedrooms,

Cover Photo: David Li Photography. Beckett’s Co-Owner:Chef Jeff Schroeter Designer: Nadia Kalinitcheva Mail: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007

ACCELERATING INEQUALITY

Senior Policy Officer at Shelter NSW Cathy Callaghan recognised that the mixedtenure model will further the inequalities emerging in the City of Sydney. “If you look at Communities Plus and the social theory behind it, around the social mix, it’s very explicitly designed to change the communities,” Callaghan said. “To explicitly say we want a new community that will be 30 per cent social, 70 per cent private knowing full well the income disparity between some of the communities, it seems quite disturbing that a government would set out to deliberately change communities so radically for them to become unlivable for the communities who traditionally lived there.” The NSW Land and Housing Corporation insists that the Communities Plus program will create greater social diversity and support systems in the inner-city.

Email: news@altmedia.net.au, arts@altmedia.net.au Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Website: cityhubsydney.com.au If you have a story, or any comments you’d like to share with us: news@altmedia.net.au @CityHubSydney

an outcome that is growing particularly troublesome as the State’s social housing waiting list is expected to surpass 60,000 in the wake of COVID-19. “We’re not going to meet the needs of these tens of thousands of applicants who need a one or two-bedroom dwellings, we’re not going to meet their needs by redeveloping small sites like [the inner-city] to increase the number of houses by 10 or 20,” Sisson said. “To think you’re going to make a dent in [the waiting list] with 10 or 20, even 100 or 200 units at a time through these redevelopment projects is a fantasy.”

Concept art for a proposal to renew the Franklyn Street social housing estate in Glebe as high density apartments under the 70:30 model. Photo: NSW Government

The redevelopment project will also deliver about 1300 new affordable housing units across the City of Sydney Local Government Area, in what will be a 41 per cent increase in social homes across the inner-city. CITY HUB MAY 2021

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Kerryn Phelps withdraws from mayoral race BY ALLISON HORE ouncillor Dr. Kerryn Phelps has withdrawn from the City of Sydney mayoral race to care for a family member with a health issue. In a Facebook post, Dr. Phelps said she was “sad to have to announce” that she would not be nominating for the position of Lord Mayor in the September local council elections. Dr. Phelps announced her intention to run for mayor in February, an ambition which she said was five years in the making. With current Lord Mayor, Clover Moore, having sat at the helm for almost two decades Dr. Phelps told City Hub she hoped to provide “strong, fresh, informed and experienced leadership to take us into the future.” Shortly after announcing her candidacy, Dr. Phelps launched her “Sydney Deserves Better” campaign, with purple shirted volunteers hitting the streets to spread her vision for a Sydney “that works for all Sydneysiders for the future.” Dr. Phelps said she is grateful for the work of her campaign team, volunteers and supporters over the three-month effort and said she was “devastated” to pull out of the race. She explained her

“I am honoured and privileged to have worked on the City of Sydney Council as a true independent councillor, and will continue to do so until the completion of the term in September,” she said. With Dr. Phelps out of the running, there is one less challenger for the powerhouse incumbent who has sat in the top seat for 17 years.

I am devastated […] as I have been working towards this election for the past five yearss City of Sydney Councillor, Dr. Kerryn Phelps, has dropped out of the mayoral race. Photo: Supplied

decision to withdraw was so she had time to be present for a family member with a health issue. “I am devastated at the timing as I have been working towards this election for the past five years, but my priority must be my family,” she said. “I need to be present over the coming months to help manage a health issue for a close family member.”

SERVING AN “HONOUR AND PRIVILEGE”

In 2016 Dr. Phelps was elected to the City of Sydney council as part of Clover Moore’s Independents Team. She served as Deputy Lord Mayor until 2017, when she resigned and stepped back from Moore’s team to become independent. She said her time in council was a “privilege.”

Councillor Linda Scott of the Labor party has thrown her hat into the ring and launched her “New Creative Future” campaign. Running for the Greens is former Marrickville councillor, Sylvie Ellsmore, who announced her candidacy in April. Local government elections in NSW are held every 4 years but due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic the 2020 elections were postponed. The City of Sydney council election will be held on Saturday 4 September 2021.

Waverley Council Update Mayor’s Message COVID-19 Waverley Council is reminding residents to remain vigilant about community transmission of COVID-19. It comes after NSW Health issued a Public Health Alert last week for several venues in the Eastern Suburbs, and subsequently re-introduced some restrictions. If you visited any of the venues of concern on the dates and times listed on NSW Health’s website, or are feeling unwell, or have any symptoms, please get tested immediately and isolate. Council also requires customers and visitors to wear masks in our Customer Service Centre, Library and Cemeteries. Please check the latest updates from NSW Health.

Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club Waverley Council in partnership with Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club this month marked the start of the restoration and upgrade of the iconic surf club building with head contractor Lloyd Group and Chrofi Architects. The clubhouse restoration and upgrade

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will provide significantly improved amenities to cater to the needs of modern surf lifesaving as well as public education and engagement with the community. The new clubhouse will remain within the existing footprint of this local landmark, and this factor is crucial in the design and sympathetic to the needs of the community. Works are expected to take 12 months to complete, weather permitting. The project is jointly funded by Waverley Council, Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Life Saving NSW state funding and Community Infrastructure federal funding.

Agreements (EUA) in Waverley to help Council achieve its community greenhouse gas emission targets by providing an innovate financing mechanism made under NSW legislation that allows building owners to repay a loan environmental upgrades such as solar through a local council charge on land. Currently, eight Councils in NSW support EUAs as a means to help community members finance and implement environmental upgrades. A report will go to Council soon on the feasibility of supporting EUAs including any risks and liabilities to Council.

Charing Cross

Notts Avenue

Council is calling for community feedback on its upgrade project of the Charing Cross village centre to provide the community with an improved streetscape for safer use and a more pleasant visitor experience. Council’s concept design for the upgrade will help green and beautify Sydney’s second-oldest terracedline shopping strip, improve pedestrian safety and celebrate the heritage features of the area. Feedback closes 19 May at haveyoursay.waverley.nsw.gov.au

Environmental Upgrade Agreements

Waverley Council recently celebrated the completion its streetscape and safety upgrade of Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach. The upgrade includes a spectacular new cantilevered northern lookout, shade structure, mature palm trees, new paving and a 10km/h shared traffic zone. The design of the upgrade was informed by two rounds of community consultation, with almost all (98.3%) of people who provided feedback in favour of Council’s plans for the upgrade. This project was proudly delivered on time and on budget for the ratepayers of Waverley, visitors and local businesses.

In response to a Mayoral Motion, Council will investigate the feasibility of supporting the implementation of Environmental Upgrade

Paula Masselos, Mayor of Waverley

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TANYA PLIBERSEK FEDERAL MEMBER FOR SYDNEY

HERE TO HELP As your local representative, I can assist with enquiries or problems you have with Federal Government departments and services like Centrelink, immigration, superannuation, Child Support payments, Medicare, the Pharmaceutical Benefit Scheme (PBS), Veterans’ Affairs, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), the National Broadband Network (NBN), universities, employment, training, Commonwealth funding and grants.

STAYING IN TOUCH To keep up to date with my activities (incuding my mobile offices), issues and events - both locally and nationally, please subscribe to my eNews at tanyaplibersek.com.

CONGRATULATORY MESSAGES My office can arrange messages of congratulations for people who live in my electorate and are celebrating their golden (50th) and diamond (60th) wedding anniversaries; and 90th and subsequent birthdays. Please allow for 6-8 weeks for congratulatory messages from dignatories.

JUSTICE OF THE PEACE My office offers Justice of the Peace (JP) services on Mondays (2pm-4.30pm); Tuesdays (10am-1pm); and Thursdays (2pm-4.30pm). Please contact my office to make an appointment.

TANYA PLIBERSEK MP 1A Great Buckingham St Redfern NSW 2016

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Tanya.Plibersek.MP@aph.gov.au 28/09/2020 1:23:20 PM CITY HUB MAY 2021

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George Street set for permanent pedestrianisation the impacts of the COVID-19. Temporary pedestrianisation efforts have already led to an increase in foot traffic. “Now we want to make these measures permanent, giving people more space to window shop, dine and walk while maintaining physical distancing,” said Lord Mayor Clover Moore.

EXEMPT FROM TENDER

An artist impression of George Street pedestrianised at Campbell Street. Photo: City of Sydney

BY ALLISON HORE ork has begun on the transformation of the south end of George Street, between Bathurst Street and Railway square, into a “world-class boulevard.” Granite footpaths, outdoor dining spaces, new street trees, seating and lighting are all part of the City of Sydney’s grand plan to permanently pedestrianise the remainder of George Street from Town Hall down to Central station.

The $35-million project will be completed by the city with the help of a $7.05 million contribution from the federal government and a $1 million contribution from the state government. It will open up the whole light rail corridor, from Circular Quay to Central Station, to pedestrians. Council endorsed the proposal in December last year, saying the additional 9000-square-metres of car-free space in the city’s CBD would be a boost of the economy and support recovery from

Construction will be completed by Sydney Civil, who, controversially, were given the contract for the multi-million dollar works with an exemption from the usual tender process. The project initially went through a tender process in 2019, with applications from 11 tenderers considered. However, the scope of the project has changed significantly since then.

With the exemption granted, work was able to begin on the project on-schedule in March this year. Mayor Moore says when the project is done it will complete the City’s “long-held vision of turning George Street into wonderful tree-lined pedestrian and light rail boulevard.”

Gabriel Metcalf, Chief Executive of the Committee for Sydney, celebrated the announcement. He said the pedestrianised section of George Street from Circular Quay to Town Hall had become one of the “world’s best streets.” “It makes so much sense to extend that magic to the cultural anchor of Chinatown and the emerging tech hub around Central station,” he said. “We’re excited to see the next phase of Sydney’s public space renaissance unfold.” Additional car free spaces will also be created on Devonshire street between Chalmers and Elizabeth streets, Surry Hills, with work set to begin in 2022.

We’re turning bitumen into

beautiful paving

The exemption from tender, which passed through a split council with the Lord Mayor as the deciding vote, covered the not-yet-tendered items including costs specific to constructing around light rail such as hiring spotters.

Construction work is already underway on the east side of the light rail tracks, near Bathurst Street. Council say work on the project will be completed in stages, block by block, to minimise disruption to businesses in the area.

Setting the Agenda: Achieving Meaningful Reform for Women in NSW We are at a turning point in our centuries old campaign for justice for women in NSW. In the last few months we have seen a new generation of young people driving mass mobilisations on the streets and huge online engagements as thousands of young women speak out for the first time, demanding an end to the rampant injustice they face on a daily basis. We’ve seen heated debates about misogyny, sexual violence and power imbalances in our parliaments, workplaces and society in mainstream media and it is clear that there is a renewed appetite for change. Whether we are talking about injustices in the form of sexual harassment and assault in the workplace or in society, consent laws, or how the justice system treats survivors, the conversation has changed. We are no longer debating IF women suffer as a result of the misogyny built into every aspect of society, but what can be done right now to change that.

On Wednesday, 28 April 2021, we were incredibly privileged to host some of the @jennyleong.newtown

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incredible young women on the front lines of this fresh charge, working to build the momentum, engage diverse communities, and implement the solutions that we need to achieve meaningful reform: Jaime Evans Director, Women’s March Sydney Chanel Contos Founder, Teach Us Consent

It was amazing to hear from these incredible activists, campaigners and communicators directly about the work they have been doing to push the boundaries, where we are headed next and how we can work together to get where we need to be. Scan the code below to watch the event in full.

Dr Amanda Cohn Chair, Border Domestic Violence Network Dani Villafaña & Erin O’Leary Co-founders, YouthSurvivors4Justice Dhanya Mani Founder, Changing Our Headline

Dr. Karen Williams Founder, Doctors Against Violence Towards Women

Saxon Mullins Director of Advocacy, Rape and Sexual Assault Research and Advocacy @jennyleong

SCAN ME TO WATCH

The steady call for justice for women has become an almighty roar. Now it is up to us to grab hold of this new momentum, and join together to realise meaningful reform. Jenny Leong MP Greens Member for Newtown @jennyleong.newtown

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Gehl’s grand vision for Sydney unveiled the city has implemented a number of recommendations including pedestrianising George Street, adding an additional 80,000 square metres of open space to the city’s footprint and enlivening laneways with al fresco dining and public art.

It’s very explicitly designed to change the communities An artist impression of what Botany road might look like if transformed to be more “people centric.” Photo: City of Sydney

BY ALLISON HORE ity of Sydney released a new study detailing an ambitious plan to make Sydney’s CBD more people-centric. Based on international best-practice and data tracking, the council says the study by urban design firm Gehl will help the city work towards a number of goals laid out in their Sustainable Sydney 2050 vision. The ambitious vision includes the creation of three public squares at Town Hall, Circular Quay and Central Station, a continuous harbour walk

and the transformation of some of the city’s busiest streets- including York, Clarence, Pitt and Castlereagh- into pedestrian-friendly destinations. Lord Mayor Clover said the new report, ‘Public Space and Public Life,’ will help the city further its goal of creating a more “livable and attractive” CBD. “We’re looking beyond traffic and basic infrastructure to create a city people want to live, visit, work and spend time in,” she said. The council first commissioned Gehl to lay out the groundwork for this path in 2007. In the 14 years since,

“Cities need to be enjoyable to walk through and relax in. More quality public space, or outdoor living rooms where people can meet and socialise, supports a healthier, more equitable and economically viable city centre,” said Ms. Moore.

FROM PARKING TO PEOPLE

Although a lot of progress has been made since 2007, the City of Sydney still has a way to go to create Gehl’s picture of a people-centric city. Issues highlighted in the new study include cars dominating the streets, buses using too many roads, overcrowded

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CITY HUB MAY 2021

footpaths and an incomplete network of bicycle lanes. But world-renowned Danish urban designer Jan Gehl hopes the new strategy will help fill those gaps. He said cities built “for the people” can act as an “antidote” to many social, health and equity challenges which arise in urban centers. “City centres are important and what were once considered radical ideas have been implemented with urgency over the past year,” he said. “It’s been a privilege to watch Sydney tackle its challenges and a greener and more people friendly city is emerging.” The next step towards the implementation of Gehl’s vision will be a series of “Green Avenues” through the CBD. Unveiled at the The Sydney Morning Herald’s Infrastructure Summit was the City of Sydney’s plan to transform the footprints of Broadway, Park Street, Oxford Street and Botany Road. The width of the roads will be reduced to reduce traffic and increase space for public transport and active transport corridors, business use, tree planting and pedestrians.

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From fashion to innovation BY ALLISON HORE estoration works to transform the historic Boot Factory in Bondi Junction into a new civic innovation hub have begun. The former shoemaking factory behind Norman Lee Place on 27-33 Spring Street in Bondi Junction, once left to fall into disrepair, is set to be transformed into a new civic innovation hub. The three-storey factory was built in 1892 by William Sidaway and Son. It was eventually acquired by the Bardon family, and, after World War II, it primarily produced high end ladies’ shoes for David Jones. The factory ended production in 1969 and in 1984 the Waverley Council acquired the building. The Boot Factory is the last 19th century building in Bondi Junction, according to Graham Quint from the National Trust. But it has stood empty since 2007, and, despite heritage experts suggesting it held architectural, aesthetic and streetscape significance, it was allowed to fall into a state of disrepair. From the years of neglect, the building was deemed “structurally unsound” and was set to be demolished in 2014. But the local community rallied to save

it and to ensure the structure of the building was stable until a new use for the building could be found, the council undertook urgent remedial works.

FROM FACTORY TO FUTURE

Under the plan by Waverley Council, the building will find a new life as an “innovative space for business incubation and knowledge transfer.”

 For it to be transformed into a hub for innovation once more is exciting The development application for the project was approved in May last year. Waverley Mayor, Paula Masselos, said the project was one of the council’s key projects and part of her commitment to ensuring the area’s heritage buildings are restored and retained “for innovative future uses for the community.” “Our intention is to return the Boot Factory to a community and Council building that will include a knowledge and innovation hub where we can nurture ideas to further transform Waverley into a ‘smart city’ of the future,” she said.

ABORIGINAL CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT INVITATION TO REGISTER AN INTEREST Re: Cockle Bay Wharf mixed use development. Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment – Section 4.1.2 Identification of potential interested parties On behalf of DPT Operator Pty Ltd and DPPT Operator Pty Ltd (the proponent), TSA management has engaged Artefact Heritage Services to prepare an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR) for land at the subject site located in Darling Harbour, in the City of Sydney Local Government Area (Figure 1). The proposal consists of the multistorey redevelopment of the site as a mixed-use commercial office development. The proposal is a State Significant Development (SSD-9978934). Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARS) were issued for the proposal in 2020. The purpose of the ACHAR is to address the SEARS requirements for Aboriginal heritage assessments that are to be included in the Environmental Impact Statement. The contact details for the project on behalf of the proponent are: AMANDA FISHER Project Manager TSA Management amanda.fisher@tsamgt.com The proponent wishes to consult with any Aboriginal persons or organisations that hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the significance of Aboriginal objects and places in the locality. In line with the relevant consultation guidelines, I am writing to you to request names and contact details that your organisation has for Aboriginal people or groups that hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the significance of Aboriginal objects or places within the locality. Please forward any information available by 21 May 2021 to: MICHAEL LEVER Artefact Heritage Suite 56, Jones Bay Wharf, 26-32 Pirrama Road Pyrmont NSW 2009 or email michael.lever@artefact.net.au

Concept art for the restored Bondi Junction Boot Factory (insert: historic photo of the Boot Factory in operation). Photo: Waverley Council

“We are now one step closer to fulfilling this vision for the Boot Factory, which over the years, has served as a base for community services and organisations including the Inventors Association of Australia. For it to be transformed into a hub for innovation once more is exciting.” The first stage of the transformation will include restoration works to the building’s roof and masonry perimeter

walls as well as new floors and a new interior fit-out. The building will also be connected to the neighbouring Mill Hill Community Centre to allow facilities to be shared. To make the most of the space, Waverley Council will also build a cafe and courtyard on the Spring Street entry to the precinct. Weather permitting, work on the project is expected to be completed in the summer of 2020 to 2021.

FLU VACCINATIONS PROTECT OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY Tanya Plibersek MP, Member for Sydney, stated on her visit to Chemistworks to receive her flu shot that “…a vaccination is one of the simplest ways of protecting our own health and the health of the people that we love.” One of the owners of Chemistworks Broadway, Catherine Bronger, also agrees that “…the flu vaccine is not just about protecting yourself, but the whole community.”

again, Plibersek touched on how the flu shot will “…help things get back to normal much more quickly; we can go out and enjoy each other’s company more.” Chemistworks Broadway operates 7 days a week. They offer a walk-in service for the flu shot (quadrivalent strain) for $29.99. Alternatively, book ahead at chemistworks.com. au. No prescription is required. Vaccinations

are subject to pharmacist and vaccine availability. Influenza vaccines are free to people from high risk groups identified in the National Immunisation Program. People from high risk groups should seek advice from their doctor and some patients may be advised not to have a flu vaccination. For more information, speak to your local pharmacist or visit www. health.gov.au.

Plibersek spoke about the ease of getting vaccinated against influenza, stating that “…it’s most convenient.” With the option to book ahead and walk-ins accepted at many local pharmacies, Plibersek mentioned that getting your flu shot at a pharmacy “…reduces stress on GPs.” With COVID-19 restrictions starting to relax and venues opening

Tanya Plibersek MP (Member for Sydney) to receive flu shot by a pharmacist in Chemistworks Broadway

CITY HUB MAY 2021

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Street Creatives: The dark horses The entrance to Rough Edges in Sydney is lined with patron art. Photo: Lucinda Garbutt-Young

BY LUCINDA GARBUTT-YOUNG n acoustic melody travels through Central Station’s commuter tunnel. Further along, a steady accordion hums while the player slouches into conversation with invisible visitors. These patterns repeated themselves on the way to Jai Jaru’s house; a simple yellow place in one of Sydney’s social housing precincts. Jai is proud of this humble abode. “I’m a gardener. Gardening and photography, they’re my things,” she explained. She pulled back her kitchen curtain to reveal a vegetable patch that she regularly tends to. The living room is adorned with prints. Jai has been photographing for four years and selling her images as stock photos for two. She first learnt about photography through Homeless in Focus, which offers disposable cameras to people in insecure housing situations. Jai now helps run the program for roughly 100 people annually and boasts her own array of camera equipment. There are an estimated 37,700 homeless people in Sydney. A UNSW study found that despite a decrease in homelessness during Covid-19, figures are back on the rise. Many people are given temporary hotel rooms instead of long-term housing. And yet, Jai has transitioned from sleeping rough to welcoming others into her home. She is now a prominent voice for the homeless community. The City of Sydney’s Homeless Action

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gentleman smiles at the camera from under his hat. The midday light hits the creases near his eyes, which Terri has trained her lens on. “I really enjoy talking to and interacting with them [the people photographed],” Terri says. “I’ve never been so excited about something.” Today’s class is particularly significant for Terri. She is opening a brand-new camera, identical to the Canon mirrorless equipment used in the program. She has just bought it with the money she saved for her brother’s upcoming visit. “He told me to go for it,” Terri says, sharing how she spoke to her brother about such a big purchase. “I might need to take out insurance on it,” she jokes. As the class concludes, Terri lingers to speak with Fiona, testing the basics of her new purchase. She has only been photographing for a month. This sentiment of success spans beyond photography. Other creative programs, including Milk Crate Theatre, champion

Plan 2020 suggests that art programs have a positive influence on wellbeing by engaging people in educational and social initiatives. Jai believes these programs achieve more than merely what is documented.

SYDNEY’S FLOURISHING PROGRAMS

Several days after our first encounter, I meet Jai again at a Darlinghurst church. The adjacent Rough Edges centre is lined with patron art. Hidden from view, there’s an old cupboard filled with painting supplies. Here, community members can find friendship, a meal and social support. The organisation also has a deep history of art as a restorative method. It now runs a five-week long photography course for people in insecure housing situations. Award-winning photographer Fiona Wolf flips through books as she explains contrast and vectors to a class of four. This week, they are learning black and white photography along the streets of Kings Cross. “One thing that cultivates an understanding of art… is talking about it and being able to express how you feel,” she pauses to watch her students make coffee in the adjacent kitchenette. They have just become friends. “That’s what we’re trying to establish here and we’re all pretty free in terms of chatting about [our work].” It’s a hospitable class, where visitors are quickly welcomed. Tables are lined

Jai Jaru shows off photographs from prior exhibitions, now stored in her Sydney home. Photo: Lucinda Garbutt-Young

with students’ work from the previous week; a miniature exhibition for their classmates. A gentle ode to future successes, with no expectation to reflect on past struggles. Ironically, many participants have been forthcoming about their troubles, often embedded within their images. “You just duck into a different world and photograph, snap away and document the world as you see it,” Fiona said. Terri O’Conner, a student in the Rough Edges course, sits on a table by herself as she lays out her work. She is particularly interested in street portraiture. In her most recent work, an elderly

art in Sydney’s homeless community. Milk Crate Theatre works with community members to develop scripts for public performance. Participants collaborate with professional actors and directors. CEO Jodie Wainwright explained how creativity unlocks people’s emotions and provides purpose. “Humans are natural storytellers, it’s how we relate and understand things. By sharing stories and putting them out in public… you can start to affect social change,” she said. “Even if it’s just realising that people who are homeless are not what the media rhetoric tells you.”

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of Sydney’s art scene WE’VE GOT IT GOOD. LET’S GET IT PERFECT

Despite success stories, creative industry workers fear there is some way to go before programs reap their full potential. Conor Ashleigh is a communications specialist working in vulnerable communities, including with people experiencing drug addiction and unstable housing. Through his documentary and still photography work, he has noticed a profound presence of natural creativity in Sydney’s homeless communities. He believes recognising this may be key to delivering successful programs. “People who have more privileges, perhaps with secure housing, don’t need to be discerning with creativity and critical decision making skills all the time,” he said. Conor reflected on some of the people he’s worked with; their stories unimaginable to the average Australian. Many find creative ways to shower, find food, or afford simply luxuries.

You just duck into a different world and photograph, snap away and document the world as you see it “So many of the people I’ve worked with are incredibly creative, perhaps not in the traditional sense… but they are very emotive and expressive.” He concluded that successful initiatives work with the creative skills people already have, rather than building from the ground up. When I told Jai about Conor’s thoughts, she affirmed the sentiment. “Sh*t yea, that makes so much sense,” she laughed.

Concept art for the new development on Wentworth Park Road and Cowper Street in Glebe. Photo: NSW Government

“You have to be so creative on the street.” Jai would like to see creative programs gain funding for earlier intervention and increased scope. Art’s transformative qualities should be enacted at all levels, she says, including in the legal system and as correctional prevention. There needs to be no Catch-22, she believes: no formal commitment or price, just big benefits. “[Going forward], when are we going to put these measures in place? Are we going to wait until the person is homeless or mentally unwell?” Despite the mental health benefits and a developing skillset, there’s very

limited capacity for employment in the creative arts sector. Jai fears that a media narrative of hopelessness for homeless communities may be taking its toll. “Many [homeless] people have been very productive in their lives,” she looked away while speaking. “We have people who have been lawyers, or who have been certified educators.” Jai says mentorships could be key to accessing a broader range of skills and story-telling. She thumbed through many A3 photos whilst explaining this, with gentle reverence for her work. Many of these

photos were taken on a disposable camera whilst sleeping rough. Their composition is striking- a skill she improved when working with established artists. “There’s huge benefits [to mentoring]. Well, potentially huge,” Jai said, reflecting on how mentoring through Homeless in Focus has altered her life. She has the pictures to prove it. Through trials, some of Sydney’s best creatives are those with lived homeless experience. Their natural skill and willingness to learn may be the key to creating transformative programs. We just need to think a little more laterally.

Submission #372

I NEVER THINK ABOUT YOU EXCEPT ALL THE TIME

19–22 May www.darlinghursttheatre.com

CITY HUB MAY 2021

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Opinion

Sydney Council’s Oxford Street plans failure BY ANDREW WOODHOUSE ydney Council passed a motion last Monday putting its 1,358 pages of plans for Oxford Street on public exhibition. Oxford Street looks like a slum. Poor planning decisions have contributed to this outcome, all under Clover Moore’s long 17 year-old sovereignty. These election sweetener plans come just six months before crucial council elections on 4th September 2021.

 Oxford Street will be

stripped naked of the cheek, chic, pose and poise They radically alter the council’s Development Control Plan, Local Environment Plan and Heritage listings and increase height limits “from 18 to 29 metres”, ie., nine stories, BUT only if a mere 10% of site space is devoted to “cultural” activities. The altered planning controls aren’t provided. And 10% percent of a building isn’t much. There is no evidence all these changes will “incentivise” Oxford Street as claimed.

A candy-coloured, rainbow painted pedestrian crossing” isn’t enough to save Oxford Street, says Andrew Woodhouse. Photo: Wikimedia

A fluttering flag in Taylor Square or a painted pedestrian crossing don’t cut it either. With World Pride in 2023, Sydney is embarrassed. Melbourne has its multimillion dollar, glamorous pride space. Sydney has nothing. And what constitutes a “cultural” activity, the criterion for granting height and FSR (site density) exemptions? Its everything we have created or cultured including buildings, streetscapes, pubs and clubs. Who benefits from this? Developers, of course. Council’s modelling shows the fourstorey Burdekin Hotel, 2 Oxford Street,

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT BALMAIN WITH 5G 1. • • • 2.

S0079 Balmain: Balmain Fire Station, 391 Darling Street, Balmain NSW 2041 (RFNSA 2041001) The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 4G/5G equipment and associated works as follows: Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas, 0.59m long on an existing headframe Installation of new ancillary equipment, including twelve (12) Remote Radio Units, cabling and antenna mounts Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter, including removal of redundant equipment and replacement of Remote Radio Units Optus regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), based on the descriptions above

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Should you require further information or wish to comment, please contact Chan Chen at Axicom, 02 9495 9000, community@axicom.com.au or Level 1, 110 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065 by Monday 31 May 2021. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2041001. 12

CITY HUB MAY 2021

overwhelmed by a seven-storey extension taller than the current hotel itself and labelled a “growth option”. The former T2 building, once promoted as a gay pride centre then a bike hub, is shown with a monstrous height extension also taller than itself and looking like a hideously bad toupee.

COUNCIL PANEL CONCERNED

Council’s Design Advisory Panel “expresses concerns about significant uplift [height increases] resulting in significant impacts on heritage significance [due to] site amalgamations and disproportionate additions.”

Council’s planner admits: “It is questionable how feasible or desirable the realisation of new floor space on these sites would be”. Those surveyed said they “don’t want any new development to be out of character and look and feel like Bondi or the CBD”. Local resident and Solicitor, Mr Ryan Walker, says “Oxford Street and Darlinghurst have been in disrepair for nearly two decades. Sydney Council has allowed many buildings to remain empty and rundown.” “In March this year, Dr Kerryn Phelps, Councillor, showed council had been sitting on about fourteen self-contained studio apartments on Oxford Street left empty for nearly two decades!” This is unforgiveable. Council’s “Oxford Street Strategic Review’’ is too little, too late.” So Oxford Street will be stripped naked of the cheek, chic, pose and poise it deserves. Have your say: email councillors at council@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au or go to https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov. au/policy-planning-changes/planningchanges-oxford-street-cultural-creativeprecinct

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS & VHA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT 1 Darling Islands Road, Pyrmont NSW 2009 with 5G RFNSA reference: 2009015 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows; The removal of three existing panel antennas; The installation of three (3) new panel antennas (2.7m long) onto the existing monopole facility The installation of three (3) new panel antennas (0.82m long) onto the existing monopole facility The installation of three (3) new panel antennas (0.59m long) onto the existing monopole facility The installation of three (3) new panel antennas (0.75m long) onto the existing monopole facility Add Ancillary items including twenty-seven (27) new remote radio units, two (2) new GPS antennas, and in shelter works 2. Optus & VHA regard the proposed installation as Exempt Development in accordance with the State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above. 3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Joel Stuart of Metasite at Feedback@metasite.com.au, or PO Box 31, Crows Nest NSW 1585, by May 28th, 2021.

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Plan to slash bus services slammed BY ALLISON HORE n a bid to “improve connections” to the CBD and South East Light Rail, the NSW government has announced a plan to slash the number of bus services across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs. Under the plan, which the government is currently seeking feedback on, 25 bus services will be cut, 23 will be modified and 11 will be modified. The NSW government say bus services are only being cut where alternative transport options exist. Transport Minister Andrew Constance says cutting the services will better connect bus routes with “turn-up-andgo” light rail services and create a more “integrated” transport network across the city’s east. “The new proposed integrated network plan for Sydney’s south east will provide much needed capacity and frequency improvements for customers, while also better supporting existing and emerging travel patterns,” Mr. Constance said. The government says the new, integrated network will increase transport capacity by 40 percent in the morning peak and by more than 45 percent in the evening peak, when compared to 2019. They

added, the network changes would mean bus services to key locations including Bondi Junction, UNSW, Newtown, the University of Sydney, Eastgardens, Green Square and Redfern will be made more frequent.

LOCALS HIT BACK

But the proposed changes haven’t been warmly received by much of the community. Among those services being cut are the popular 373 from Coogee to Circular Quay and 393 from Little Bay to Central.

 Our community has voted with their feet Member for Coogee Marjorie O’Neill, of the Labor party, slammed the government’s plan. She said Eastern Suburbs commuters had chosen bus services over the light rail and claimed the slashing of bus services was essentially a way for the NSW government to “punish” locals for the Liberal party’s “infrastructure mistakes.” “Our buses are being removed to force people to use the failed Light Rail as

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS AND VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT Rooftop Facility, 23 Baden Street, Coogee NSW 2034 Optus Vodafone Ref: S8879, www.rfnsa.com.au/2034009 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m long) • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.75m long) • Installation of one (1) new 4G panel antenna (2.07 m long) • Installation of two (2) new 4G panel antennas (2.78 m long) • Replacement of one (1) existing 4G panel antenna (2.68m long) with one new 4G panel antenna (2.1m long) • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter • The antennas will be flush-mounted and colour-matched to the upper roof level 2. Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the description above. 3. Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment. 4. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Optus’ representative c/- James McIver, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 28 May 2021.

Among the bus services being cut is the 397. Photo: Transport for NSW

its patronage is down 90 percent from anticipated levels,” Ms. O’Neill said. “Our buses and the light rail have been running simultaneously for the past 12 months and our community has voted with their feet.” The NSW branch of the rail, tram and bus union also criticised the move. They called it a “betrayal” of the residents who had “campaigned relentlessly to save their transport services” when the proposed cuts were leaked last year. “The government’s blatant disregard

for the community, including its own constituents, baffles belief. But the community won this consultation, and now it’s time to hammer the message home,” they said. The proposed bus route changes are open for feedback until June 18th. Should they go ahead, they will be introduced in late 2021. Ms. O’Neil is urging locals to get behind her petition to save the affected bus routes and to come along to a rally she is organising on the 30th of May in Randwick.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT Rooftop Facility, 270 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033 Optus Ref: S0247, www.rfnsa.com.au/2033006 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.59m long) • Installation of two (2) new 4G panel antennas (2.69m long) • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in the overall scale of the facility 2. Optus regards the proposed installation as Exempt Development in accordance with State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above 3. Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment 4. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Optus’ representative c/- James McIver, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 28 May 2021. CITY HUB MAY 2021

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Notts Avenue’s pedestrianfriendly makeover

Controversial beach club design revealed BY ALLISON HORE ast year plans to open a private beach club on Bondi Beach were slammed as elitist and ultimately rejected by the Waverley Council. But that hasn’t stopped polo entrepreneur, Janek Gazeck, from revealing his vision for the Amalfi Beach Club ahead of lodging of yet another application to council.

Flogging off a bit of

Bondi […] is one of the ugliest things that could be proposed Pedestrians enjoy the new lookout on Notts Avenue. Photo: Walksydney

BY ALLISON HORE “The design not only compliments the natural forms of the surrounding n iconic Bondi address has coastal environment but enables received a pedestrian-friendly people to gather to enjoy this glorious makeover. The new-and-improved view without having to queue up along Notts Avenue in North Bondi was the path,” Mayor Masselos said. officially opened by Waverley Council today. “It also provides improved access for Works on the upgrade project started in pedestrians using the stairs north of Icebergs, which is really important April last year after Waverley Council’s ‘People, Movement and Places strategy’ especially during the height of summer.” identified improving pedestrian safety on Notts Avenue as a key priority. Speaking at the official opening, Ms. Masselos thanked local residents for The road is heavily accessed by their patience during the construction pedestrians, especially during special works and their support during the events like the Sculptures by the Sea consultation process. Just over where foot traffic spilled out onto the road. It is also home to the iconic Bondi 98 percent of residents who were consulted throughout the projects’ Icebergs swim club which sees more design said they supported it. than 140,000 visitors per year. “Congratulations Now, the road has to everyone who been transformed into was involved in this  [It] enables people a 10 kilometer per hour project, and a very big shared traffic zone. to gather to enjoy shout out and thank Other major changes you to our residents this glorious view to the streetscape who provided the included a cantilevered input, put up with the northern lookout, a noise while it was being built, and are shade structure, mature palm trees now able to enjoy the product,” she and new paving. The number of parking said. spaces along the road was also reduced Although the project was originally to 20 spaces to allow for garden beds slated to cost around $1 million, and small trees to “soften” the strip. the scope of the project changed Council hopes the $3.75 million Notts significantly from the first proposal. Avenue upgrade will not only improve As well as the new lookout and the safety and amenity for residents shared zone, new paving was layed, and businesses, but also the one balustrades were upgraded and million annual users of the Bondi to energy efficient lighting was installed. Bronte Coastal Walk. The upgrades were part of the Waverley Council’s ‘Bondi Blueprint,’ SOAKING IN SCENERY a $70 million suite of upgrades to Waverley Mayor, Paula Masselos, says “improve the experience” of both the road upgrades have transformed visitors to Bondi and local residents. the space into “a beautiful place to Also included in the ‘Bondi Blueprint’ soak in the view of beautiful Bondi are plans to improve streetscaping Beach.” along Campbell Parade.

CITY HUB MAY 2021

In a “teaser” for the development application the club explained how shipping containers would be used to create an “authentic” Italian coastal style facade. The 30-metre by 25-metre club would pop-up on the sand through the summer months, when Bondi beach is busiest and operate from Thursdays to Sundays between midday and 9pm. But the Waverley community hasn’t warmly welcomed previous iterations of Amalfi’s proposal. In May last year, Amalfi Beach Club lodged a proposal with the Waverley Council to establish the club and “remove

peak periods between December and January. Further, alcohol consumption is prohibited on the beach as mixing drinking with swimming can be a safety issue, particularly in peak seasons.

ACCUSATIONS OF ELITISM

Not one to back down, Mr. Gazeck put in a second application in October which attracted widespread backlash from the community and attracted accusations of “elitism.” With a price tag of approximately $80 per person for 2 hours, the club would be inaccessible to most. Over 34,000 people signed a petition against the proposal. A counter petition, in support of the club, received only a few over 1,000 signatures. Planning minister, Rob Stokes, was among those who expressed opposition to the club. He called the proposal “elitist and un-Australian,” and, as Bondi Beach is Crown Land, he promised to veto the application should it be passed by council. “Flogging off a bit of Bondi for the socalled beautiful people is one of the ugliest things that could be proposed,” he said. “Our public spaces and beautiful beaches are to be enjoyed by all - not cordoned off like in the south of France or the United States for only those who can afford it.”

The proposed design for the Amalfi Beach Club on Bondi Beach. Photo: Facebook/Amalfi Beach Club

a section of the beach from public use for an extended period of time.” Upon review of the application, council officers deemed the planned club unsuitable. “Our beaches and parks are public open spaces, for the enjoyment of everyone,” the Waverley Council said in a statement at the time. Waverley Council policies do not allow events on the sand at Bondi in

Mr. Gazecki said the club wasn’t elitist and would cater to families who wanted to make a day at the beach easier and more relaxed, he suggested the opposition to his plan was a classic case of Bondi NIMBYism. Should their application be successful this time around, Amalfi claims it will help Bondi “rebuild its international reputation in a post COVID-19 world.”

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Looking back at the Royal Commission, three decades on A

BY ALLISON HORE pril 10th marked the 30th anniversary of the Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody. But in the three decades since the landmark Royal Commission, Indigenous activists say the core recommendations, of the report’s 339, have been enacted by any government. The commission began in 1987 following campaigning by Indigenous activists over the death of 16-year-old John Peter Pat and a number of other Indigenous detainees. Mr. Pat died in a Western Australia police cell in 1983. According to witnesses, arresting officers kicked Mr. Pat in the head and face, before dragging him into a van. When being removed from the van, witnesses say he was beaten and dropped onto the cement pathway. Protesters took to the streets to mark 30 years of inaction since the Royal Commission. Photo: Allison Hore He was taken into a cell and a little over receiving treatment for his asthma, was being found unresponsive in his cell. “The royal commission came up with an hour later, he was dead. Although not in prison; he would still be alive today. The cause of the man’s death is yet to some ideas to try and stop all the deaths witnesses claim neither Mr. Pat nor his be determined by the coroner. Three in custody, and guess what? The white “Nathan was our brother, he was a son, fellow arrestees fought back, the officers days later a 44-year-old Indigenous man, who ran all the governments all a father, a nephew, and a grandson. He involved pleaded self defence and their woman died in Silverwater Women’s over Australia for 30 long years, refuses was deeply loved, losing him has left a manslaughter charges were dropped. PROPOSALCentre TO UPGRADE OPTUS Correctional in Sydney’s West. to follow those ideas and make proper hole in our lives and we miss him every On the 10th of April 1991, the MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G changes.” single day,” the family said. The pair are among the five Indigenous commission returned with the findings AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS people who died in police custody across Following the speeches at Town Hall, “It is soul crushing knowing that at just of their inquiry and tabled a report with PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS AND VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE Existing Facility (Level 10), 1-19 Oxford Street, Rooftop Facility, Lakes Business Park, Building 2, protesters marched up Park Street Australia in March. 36 years old, Surry Nathan died on a cold 339 recommendations. Hills NSW 2010 2-26 Lord Street, Botany NSW 2019 STATION WITH 5G AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS and along College Street towards the prison And are going up. A 2018 Optusfloor.” Ref: S0209, www.rfnsa.com.au/2010024 Among the report’s recommendations Optusincarcerations Ref: S0490, www.rfnsa.com.au/2019001 Rooftop Facility, 209-211 Harris Domain. Street, Pyrmont 2009 TheNSW group was led by family review by Deloitte commissioned 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G 3. The proposed facility consists of the addition of by were that imprisonment only new 5G Optusshould Vodafone Ref:be S0969, www.rfnsa.com.au/2009003 members of those who died carrying then Indigenous Minister, Nigel equipment and associated works as follows: used a last resort, equipment and associated Affairs works as follows: 1. Theas proposed facility consistsmedical of the additionassistance of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: THE COMMISSION’S LEGACY large placards with their names, faces • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m in length) Scullion, found the rate of imprisonment • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.59m long) Installation of three new 5G panel when antennas (0.81m long) must• be called for (3) detainees Although the commission has and circumstances surrounding their • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.68m for Indigenous people had doubled since • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.75m long) necessary and every death in custody been long) with three new 4G panel antennas (1.5m long) criticised as privileging legal deaths. and antenna mounts the commission’s report was handed • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.68m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (2. 1 m long) (Indigenous or otherwise) should be • New ancillary over equipment including remote voices radio units, cabling perspectives Indigenous • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.68m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (1.83m long) down. andlimited antenna mounts subject to “rigorous and accountable and its scope, Elena Marchetti, the equipment shelter • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within Deloitte also found cell safety checks were investigations.” The report also called Seniorthe equipment shelter; the antennas are at level 10 plant room Lecturer at Griffith Law School, • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within theequipment shelter insufficient of Indigenous for broader social changes including the overall scaleand of themonitoring facility called the commission “the most • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in the overall scale of the facility • Optus regards the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in deaths in custody had decreased in recent better cooperation with Indigenous • Optus regards the proposed installation as Exempt Development comprehensive investigation ever accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Rooftop Facility, 48 Chippen Street, Chippendale NSW 2008 years. They called theEnvironmental quality ofPlanning data Policy communities and theOptus initiation of Ref: a S2145, www.rfnsa.com.au/2008003 in accordance with State Determination 2018 based on the description above Vodafone undertaken into the deep disadvantage (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above 2. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: collected by police in regards to these reconciliation process. ExistingbyMonopole, 19 Harris Street,as a experienced Indigenous people • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.75m long) Pyrmont NSW 2009 Rooftop 65-71 Belmore Road, deaths “an Facility, ongoing issue.” result of colonisation.” Optus Ref: S5576, www.rfnsa.com.au/2009001 • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (1.35m long) Randwick NSW 2031 Gomeroi, Dunghutti and Biripi RALLY FOR RECOGNITION But what hasfacility changed threeof new 5G Optus Ref: S0041, www.rfnsa.com.au/2031005 • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.69m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (2.1m long) 2. The proposed consists in of the the addition Woman Tameeka Tighe, said the equipmentsince and associated works as came follows: in? • Replacement of threeacross (3) existingthe 4G panel antennas (2.68m long) new 4Gneared panel antennas long) the As with thethree march the(1.5m Domain, Protests were held country decades the report 4. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G recommendations passed down by • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.59m long) • New equipment including remote antennaof mounts group protesters stopped a number of on the dayancillary of the anniversary, toradio callunits, forcabling and equipment and associated works as follows: A global human rights report by • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m long) the Royal Commission were “no longer • Reconfiguration of existingpeople equipment who on the facility equipment shelter out the names of those times to shout justice for Indigenous haveand within the • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.59m long) Amnesty International highlighted the • Installation of one (1) new 4G panel antenna (2.69 m long) The antennas are police at rooftop level and there is a slight increase inwho the overall scaledied. of the facility enough,” and widespread radical reform • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m long) have lost • their lives in custody. incarceration rate of Indigenous people • Replacement of two (2) existing 4G panel antennas (2.53m long) Rooftop Facility, 134-138 William Street, Wooloomooloo NSW 2011 was urgently needed. • Provision for three (3) future panel antennas (up to 1.5m long) At the Domain, protesters heard from Addressing the 1,500Optus strong crowdRef: atS8901, www.rfnsa.com.au/2011002 as onewith two new 4G panel antennas (2.69m long) of Australia’s key human rights Vodafone • New is ancillary equipment including remote cabling “How it that 30 years afterradio theunits, Royal • Provision for three (3) future panel antennas (up to 1.5m long) family Sydney’s Town Hall on ofGadigal issues. Aboriginal and Torres Strait 3. The proposed facility consists the additionland, of new 5G equipment more and associated worksmembers as follows: of those whose and antenna mounts • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in • Installation of threelamented (3) new 5G panel Leetona Dungay theantennas lack (0.75m long) lives were lost, including Nathan Islander people make up 29 percent of • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within and antenna mounts Custody our people are still dying at • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (1.35m long) Reynolds. Mr. Reynolds died of an of justice for Indigenous victims. Ms. the • country’s prison population despite the equipment shelter Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within • Replacement three (3)Dungay existing 4G Jr, paneldied antennas (2.53m long) with threeattack new 4G panel long)in 2018, higher rates within the prison system,” asthma in aantennas NSW(1.83m prison Dungay’s son, ofDavid representing • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in the equipmentonly shelter 3.3 percent of the total • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.53m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (2.78m long) the no overalllonger scale of theenough facility to call for the just one week before he was due to be in Sydney’s Long Bay jail in 2015. population. • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in “It is • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts the overall scale of the facility • Optus regards the proposed installation as Exempt Development recommendations to be implemented, released. A coronial inquest found the She • says “no-one has ever been held Indigenous deaths in custody continue, Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter • Optus regards the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in theinentire accordance with State Environmental prison system mustPlanning be Policy medical response had been delayed and accountable” for her son’s death, or the with more than 450 Indigenous people 4. Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed installations as Exempt Development in accordance with State Environmental Planning Policy accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above defunded and abolished.” his death was preventable. many similar incidents. (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above 2018 based on the description above dying Determination at the hands of Australia’s criminal 5. Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment In NSW, an inquiry into the handling of In a statement read at the rally, his family “The royal commission didn’t get any justice system since 1991. 5. Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment. 6. Members the public may obtain further information on the proposed work,he andand we invite to providewho writtenhave comments about the said theyouothers died Indigenous incarceration and deaths justice for ofthe families, not a single 6. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the Just last month, on March 5th, a proposal. Furtheror information comments c/- James McIver, Catalyst ONE PtyThey Ltd; phone: proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Optus’ representative c/- James McIver, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: wererepresentative “more than just a statistic.” in custody is currently underway in the police officer prisonand/or guard wasshould be directed to Optus’ 35-year-old Aboriginal man died in 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 26 February 2021. 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 26 February 2021. believe if Mr. Reynolds, who had been Upper House. charged or convicted,” she said. Sydney’s Long Bay jail hospital after

The royal commission didn’t get any justice for the families

CITY HUB MAY 2021

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Kill the Bill: Protesters take on transphobic bill trans children and students, and it’s hard enough for all students as it is and it’s even harder to be a trans student,” Darcy said. “We face bullying and isolation from our own peers, and now we have to face that from grown adults too.”

THOUSANDS BACK PETITION

Sam Guerra created a petition against Mark Latham’s bill which attracted thousands of signatures. Photo: Allison Hore

BY ALLISON HORE rotesters took over Taylor Square on Saturday to make a strong statement against a “transphobic” education bill tabled in NSW Parliament by One Nation’s Mark Latham. The protest, organised by Community Action for Rainbow Rights, took on the Education Legislation Amendment (Parental Rights) Bill 2020, which activists say is less about giving rights to parents over their childrens’ education, and more about preventing transgender

students and staff from being open about their gender identities. If it passes, teachers, counsellors and other school staff could face dismissal if they offered support or advice to transgender and gender diverse students. It would also leave transgender members of staff unable to speak openly about their gender identity. Speaking at the rally, transgender high school student Darcy said Mr. Latham’s bill was akin to “bullying.” “This bill is pushing for the erasure of

Hearing about the proposed bill Sam Guerra, a non-binary person and primary school educator, started a Change.org petition which quickly went viral. Sam said as an educator they hoped to provide the kind of support and assistance they did not receive throughout their schooling. However, the proposed bill would make this impossible. “Our trans and gender diverse students already suffer. They don’t feel safe, and they haven’t for way too long,” Sam said. “It is the responsibility of teachers and schools to create a safe space for all their students, no matter how they choose to identify. No law should interfere with that.” At the rally, Sam delivered their petition, which attracted more than 112,000 signatures, to NSW Upper House member David Shoebridge. Greens

MP Jenny Leong and Labor MLC Penny Sharpe also supported the petition, though, could not make it on the day of the protest. “[Latham] has made it clear that he wants to make political capital from marginalising some of the most marginal in our community, and that is a shameful abuse of his position as an MP,” said Mr. Shoebridge.

 It’s hard enough for all students as it is and it’s even harder to be a trans student For Sam, supporting and affirming students who come out to them would come before their job, if the bill were to pass. “If I was ever put in a position where a student of mine confided in me about their confusion with their gender or their identity and the law prevented me from supporting them, I would not hesitate to put my job on the line to support this student,” Sam told the crowd. Another rally against Mark Latham’s bill will be held on the 5th of June.

Australians call for an end to Asian hate BY ALLISON HORE ith anti-Asian racism on the rise, Asian-Australians in Sydney are calling for the federal government to tighten antiracism laws. The call comes as part of the global #StopAsianHate campaign. According to a survey by the Asian Australian Alliance which launched in April last year, there have been 520 incidents reports of COVID-19 related racism incidents, or almost two racist incidents against Asian-Australians every day.

 It has an impact on our abilities as humans to enjoy full participation In an open letter to Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Alex Hawke, Sydney’s Asian-Australian community have called for anti-racism laws and protections to be strengthened and for compulsory anti-racism education to be rolled out in schools across the country. The open letter was launched at a vigil outside Circular Quay which was organised by the Asian Australian Alliance, Kozziecom, and member for Newtown, Jenny Leong. 16

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Speaking to the 100 protesters gathered at the vigil, Ms. Leong said the rise in attacks on Asian-Australians during the pandemic was concerning and damaged the social cohesion of communities. She said as a Chinese Australian she has lived experience of the increasing racism and hostility. “Whether it is racial violence or aggression, verbally or physically, it has an impact on our abilities as humans to enjoy full participation in our society,” she said. “It’s crucial that we join together both as a local Sydney community and across the globe to #StopAsianHate.”

“FIRST OF ITS KIND”

Although it is part of a global movement, Shona Yang from Kozziecom, a youtube channel which shares Korean Australian stories, said the vigil at Customs House was the first held in Australia. She said Asian-Australians have been quiet for a long time about the racism they face and said it was time to stand up against it. “It’s stereotypical for Asians to stay quiet on such matters, but we’re gathering to take a stand on issues around racism against Asians in Australia,” she said.

Protesters gathered for the #StopAsianHate vigil in Sydney. Photo: Twitter/Paddygibson

“It shouldn’t take deaths, shootings and ridicule for our voices to be heard and taken seriously.” In March the shooting of eight people across three spas in Atlanta, Georgiaincluding six Asian women- sparked #StopAsianHate protests across the United States. A spokesperson for the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office said the perpetrator of the mass killing simply “had a bad day,” which, activists say, highlights the dismissive

attitude of police towards racist hate crimes. According to the Asian Australian Alliance’s survey, 90 percent of Asian-hate victims did not report their experience to police. But Ms. Leong thinks it’s important not to be silent about these attacks. “We will continue to speak out. We will not be silent about the racism and discrimination that infects our society,” she said.

COFFIN ED’S NAKED CITY

BIENNALE ON A BUDGET

n the current global pandemic many facets of our cultural life have been forced to either postpone their normal agenda or take a subdued back seat to the human tragedy we witness every day. Throughout the world major art galleries have closed, opera and ballet seasons canned, music festivals cancelled and production halted on numerous movie productions. In Australia the impact has been less severe than say Europe or the US, but when it comes to the arts we are still rearranging our socially distanced deckchairs. Whilst there has been a resurgence at the more grass roots level, with live music returning to pubs and clubs and galleries hosting major exhibitions, many of the regular events, festivals and music seasons are lying dormant. There’s no doubt they will eventually return but will they do so with the same relevance and impact they once had? Take the Sydney Biennale for example, a festival that began in 1973 and has since developed into one of the country’s most prestigious and best attended. It’s an event that invariably packs some kind of political punch and looks to jolt our consciousness on a whole range of social and environmental issues. Added to this is a less serious side that often explores the magic and whimsy of contemporary art. Best of all it’s mostly free to the public and attracts a wide range of age groups.

Whilst COVID restricted the 2020 Biennale to a largely low key affair, the 23rd instalment scheduled for 2022 promises a major revival with a theme that very much spruiks recovery. Titled Rivus, the focus will be on “wetlands and other salt and freshwater ecosystems as dynamic living systems with varying degrees of political agency.” It’s perhaps coincidental that the letters of the title also spell out ‘virus’ but the theme does evoke an element of post pandemic cleansing and rebirth. Whilst it’s a positive message you have to ask just how it will sit in the social and political context of 2022. Last year the outbreak of the pandemic came as a major shock and a developing human tragedy and if anything 2021 has been much worse. Who knows what awaits us in 2022, particularly in Australia where

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT: 50-60 Pyrmont Bridge Road, Pyrmont NSW 2009 (RFNSA Site No. 2009006) 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: • • • • • • • • •

1 new panel antenna (0.82m long) at 14.5m in height 1 new panel antenna (0.62m long) at 14.5m in height 1 new panel antenna (2.7m long) at 12.5m in height 2 new panel antennas (0.62m long) at 12m in height 1 new panel antenna (0.82m long) at 12m in height 2 new panel antennas (1.9m long) at 11.5m in height 1 new panel antenna (0.82m long) at 11.0m in height 12 new remote radio units (RRUs) Ancillary equipment including but not limited to; new mounts, new fibre and electrical cabling, replacement of 1 GPS antenna, 1 new GPS antenna • Reconfiguration of existing equipment 2. Optus regards the proposed installation as compliant with the State Environmental Planning Policy Infrastructure 2007, based on the description above. 3. In accordance with Section 7 of the C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Daniel Trees of Ventia at daniel.trees@ventia.com or Locked Bag 2015, South Brisbane QLD 4101 by 5pm 27 May 2021.

citizens are barred from returning to their own country, the Government’s hawks talk up the horrendous possibility of a war with China and an agonised Craig McLachlan seeks redemption after his sexual assault case. Is there a chance that the Biennale’s commendable environmental theme will be completely overshadowed by some kind of major disruption from both here at home and increasing global chaos? It would be wrong to think that art can always ascend to the frontline of political protest but when the shit really hits the fan, its relevancy is often diluted. Back at the beginning of 2020 I wrote that “The 22nd Biennale Of Sydney is almost upon us and as always it throws up a multitude of interesting and provocative art experiences. However, it’s invariably a select group of artists who are chosen to participate and that begs the question – what about those who didn’t get a run at Carriage Works or Cockatoo Island?” I also put forward the idea of a guerrilla style, spontaneous fringe ‘Biennale’ that should run concurrent with the established event. If ever there was a demand for such an initiative it’s now, in the twilight zone of uncertainty and apprehension that grips much of our daily life. You don’t need a government arts grant or the subsidy of some wealthy philanthropist to participate – only a driving passion for social justice and change, plus your imagination and a selection of donated and recycled items.

NOTICE OF ABORIGINAL CULTURAL HERITAGE ASSESSMENT AND INVITATION FOR REGISTRATIONS OF INTEREST – 1538-1544 ANZAC PARADE, LA PEROUSE NSW 2036 Extent Heritage Pty Ltd has been engaged by TKD Architects on behalf of Randwick City Council (the proponent), to undertake an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment Report (ACHAR) for the La Perouse Headland (Lot 1, DP 915424). The purpose of the ACHAR will be to inform the development of a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) and may be used to support an application for an Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit (AHIP). Contact details for the proponent are: Sarah Harmston, Randwick City Council, 30 Frances Street, Randwick NSW 2031, T: 02 9093 6000, E: council@randwick.nsw.gov.au Registrations are invited from Aboriginal individuals and organisations who hold cultural knowledge relevant to determining the significance of Aboriginal objects and/or places in the area, and who wish to be involved in the consultation process. This process will be used to inform the Aboriginal heritage investigations and obtain any subsequent approvals that may be required for the proposed development. Registrations of interest should be provided by no later than 26 May to Ryan Taddeucci at Extent Heritage Pty Ltd via post (Level 3/73 Union St, Pyrmont, NSW, 2009), email (rtaddeucci@extent.com.au) or phone (02 9555 4000). As part of the consultation process, we are obliged to provide the contact details of organisations and individuals who register an interest to Heritage NSW and the La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council, unless instructed otherwise. Please advise us if you do not wish this to occur. CITY HUB MAY 2021

BEAUTIFUL BECKETT’S

Glebe gets opulent new dining venue curated by renowned playwright and world-class chef BY JAMIE APPS lebe has an incredible new restaurant in its midst. Founded by renowned theatre director Wendy Beckett and veteran chef Jeff Schroeter Beckett’s is a must-visit for locals and food-lovers alike. Set within the hallowed walls of the old Darling Mills site on Glebe Point Road Beckett’s is a loving homage to the opulence of mid-century Parisian and New York bars and bistros. The stunning sandstone edifice delivers a uniquely Sydney experience. Co-owner Wendy Beckett is a lauded member of Sydney’s theatre community. She has written more than 25 plays and directed over 40 more. Her most recent play Claudel just completed its run at the Sydney Opera House to critical acclaim. In order to present her greatest production to date, Beckett’s restaurant, Wendy enlisted the help of long-time friend, seasoned chef Jeff Schroeter. Schroeter has more than thirty years of experience under his chef’s hat and has worked all around the globe. Beginning in Brisbane Schroeter’s career has taken him to Sydney, London, Switzerland, and Manhattan. He comes from an internationally-trained canon of chefs Sydney rarely gets access to. Schroeter cut his teeth at the Savoy Hotel, London before moving to Philippe Stark’s designed Royalton Hotel where he worked alongside cheffing legend Geoffrey Zakarian in Restaurant 44 (New York). Ultimately, he returned home to launch and reinvigorate some of Sydney’s most innovative restaurants over the last two decades. With his vast experience, Schroeter has led culinary trends. His talent is to curate opulent menus at affordable prices, something which he has again done on the Beckett’s menu. Speaking with City Hub Schroeter described his menu as “casual elegance” which is intentionally approachable. “You can come in grab a quick bite to eat with a few martinis and then go home. Or, you can come sit in the back and go for the journey.” Whilst Schroeter created Beckett’s menu with bistro-luxe in mind, he decided he had to change the menu after the

to get ducks out of Tathra because they typically butcher and freeze, but I wanted them fresh. So that means I tie in with when they are butchering.”

Photos: David Li Photography

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Beckett’s Co-Owner: Wendy Beckett. Photo: William Yang

Beckett’s Co-Owner: Chef Jeff Schroeter. Photo: David Li Photography

Photo: David Li Photography

The venue is so unique and actually caught me by surprise on opening night

When asked how the relationship between Wendy and himself came to be Schroeter answered, “it came about through dinner parties at home.” As it turns out Wendy and Jeff’s children have attended school together since the age of three and the families became close friends. As Jeff explained his wife loves to entertain so they regularly throw fabulous soirées for up to 30 guests in their home. At these dinner parties, Wendy fell in love with Jeff’s signature dish of Queensland caught vanilla lobster, fennel butter-poached, vanilla celeriac, ice plant, and sea urchin sauce. When Wendy saw the Darling Mills venue was up for lease she immediately gave Jeff a call. When they visited the space for a walkthrough and a wine tasting the space gave them both a “warm hug”. The story began there. To Jeff, good drinks are just as important as good food. Jeff and Charlie Ainsbury, former Bartender of the Year and International Bartender of the Year, are alumni that worked together at the legendary Bayswater Brasserie.

Photo: David Li Photography

opening night when he witnessed the dining room alive in all of its grandeur. “The venue is so unique and actually caught me by surprise on opening night,” explained Schroeter. “The room dresses itself up a bit more than I had anticipated. So, I actually had to change the menu completely and dress it up a little more to suit the room after the first night.” Beckett’s print their menus on-site because it allows them to change dishes according to what produce is in season. They can adjust the menu based on the freshest produce that is available. Over the years Schroeter has developed great relationships with all of his produce suppliers and can source incredible produce direct from the producers to the restaurant.

In closing, we spoke about the partnerships between the key figures of Beckett’s Wendy Beckett, Jeff Schroeter, Sommelier Sasha Siljanovic, and Australia’s most awarded and admired bartender and bar consultant Charlie Ainsbury.

Photo: David Li Photography

The passion for food and his suppliers really came through as he spoke about regional produce and its various sources. “My ducks come from Tathra. My John Dory just arrived from New Zealand. When I had Red Snapper it came from New Zealand, just north of Auckland. And when we have Coral Trout that comes from a guy in Queensland who hand catches them,” said Schroeter before continuing. “It took four weeks

“Charlie and I go back a long way,” Schroeter said. “He taught me how to drink properly. I thought I knew but he showed me the quality and finesse in drinks that I didn’t appreciate. So, I’ve always loved Charlie and what he can do with booze while he’s always loved what I do with food.” For anybody who wants to have a truly memorable dining experience in Sydney, look no further than Glebe’s Beckett’s. As it did for Jeff and Wendy, the breathtaking sandstone space gives everybody who enters a warm embrace, making this sumptuous dining experience all the more enjoyable.

DINE & DISCOVER NSW DINE & DISCOVER DEALS

BY JAMIE APPS s part of their recovery efforts in the wake of COVID-19 lockdowns the New South Wales Government has allocated all NSW residents aged 18 and over $100 worth of vouchers (2 x $25 for dining & 2 x $25 for entertainment/recreation). It is hoped that by using the Dine & Discover vouchers residents will be encouraged to get out and support local businesses.

These Dine & Discover vouchers can be used 7 days a week, including public holidays, and are valid until June 30, 2021. If you haven’t yet used these vouchers your window is quickly closing, so you really should look to take advantage of the NSW Government’s ‘gracious’ offer. Rather than heading to your local restaurant or partaking in your normal weekend activities why not get adventurous and try somewhere new.

The team at City Hub strongly suggest treating yourself to a fantastic meal at Beckett’s in Glebe, or Marvan Hospitality’s range of venues including: The Flynn, The George & The Evening Star Hotel.

If it’s those pesky Discover vouchers that are lingering in your Service NSW app why not take a tour around Sydney Harbour with the fantastic teams over at Captain Cook Cruises or Sydney Harbour Tall Ships.

USE YOUR NSW DINE & DISCOVER VOUCHERS WITH MARVAN HOTELS The Flynn

2A Bligh Street, Sydney Ph: (02) 9223 0037 www.theflynn.com.au

George Hotel Waterloo

760 Elizabeth Street, Waterloo Ph: (02) 9310 2952 www.georgehotelwaterloo.com.au

The Evening Star Hotel

60 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills Ph: (02) 9281 8177 www.eveningstarhotel.com.au

CITY HUB MAY 2021

HubARTS

IMOGEN CLARK:

performing is the most fun for me (See p.22)

HYPERDREAM

Poppy Lynch & Lucy Bell. Photo: Prudence Upton

HONOUR

BY IRINA DUNN oanna Murray-Smith takes a familiar domestic scenario – a man who leaves his wife of many years for a much younger woman – and examines the perspectives and feelings of each in detail with great humour and compassion. She also presents the effect of the breakup on the daughter of the couple, as well as the responses of the interloper to the two women – mother and daughter – whose lives she has thrown into turmoil. As Murray-Smith says, “Honour is a boxing match of a play, a series of scenes in which different combinations of the four characters grapple with the aftermath of this act of betrayal. All four are struggling with the meaning and stamina of love in

BY OLGA AZAR he delineation between what is lived, what is remembered and what can be re-created are fast-disappearing borders in the digital world. Once limited to the realm of speculation, these new technologies are explored in Hyperdream, created by Adriane Daff and Mikala Westhall. In the collaborative work (actors Nat Jobe, Angela Mahlatjie and Matt Abell-King), characters are able to relive moments of regret, from the funny and playful to the serious. “In 2020, we tried to continue our lives in a digital space,” says Daff of that long year of lockdowns and social distancing. “I was interested in how people use digital technology to cope.” Employing versatile techniques such as real-time characters performing in front of an undisguised green screen is part of a magic trick made on the stage, explains Westhall. “After the

year we’ve had, to get people to connect in a live space is something that is sorely missed and needed.” The work “hones the concept of what feels like real memory, how reality can intersect with technology, something we can show on stage,” says Daff, “exploring ways to use digital technology to bring about a depiction of memory.” Scenarios as light-hearted as re-visiting a slightly awkward exchange then progress to more involving moments. Hyperdream is not out-of-this-world futuristic, says Daff. “It’s our take on technologies that are already being developed as we speak.” May 13-Jun 5. Old Fitz Theatre, 129 Dowling Street (Crn of Cathedral St), Wollomoolloo. $34.69-$46.94+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.redlineproductions.com.au

REVIEW

all its forms: marital, long-term, new, passionate, parental and so on. The play commences when life throws a grenade into one small world and its inhabitants have to respond in the moment.” And we the audience must also respond as we watch the whole catastrophe unfold before us. Kate Champion’s direction leaves us with empathy for all the characters – Lucy Bell as Honour, Huw Higginson as her unfaithful husband George, Poppy Lynch as Sophie the daughter, and Ayeesha Ash as Claudia. Another terrific play from Murray-Smith! Until Jun 5. Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall St, Kirribilli. $38-$79+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.ensemble.com.au

JON GLASS’ NEW PLAY, SPRING LOADED BY IRINA DUNN on Glass says he has always “loved theatre.” His first play, called Entitled Transactions, was performed at the Factory Theatre in 2018. He says, “Writing is what I think I can do, and the play seemed to work reasonably well. So, I wanted to try my hand at something with quite a different atmosphere: a bit lighter, more contemporary and with younger characters.” Glass came up with Spring Loaded, which invites the audience to “indulge in this sometimes funny but mostly shocking insight into the cycles of abuse and how it can shape the humans we become.” In Spring Loaded, a 20-year school reunion reunites an old class bully and his victim in a business partnership that seems to offer the latter an exciting career prospect. This is the second time Glass has produced a play at the Factory Theatre.

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He says, “The Factory Theatre is very easy to work with. They have very helpful staff who respond to requests, they are very experienced in what they do (as you can imagine). The relationship is commercial: I pay for theatre hire and for use of relevant personnel such as sound and lighting techs.”

Jon has plenty to occupy himself when he’s not writing plays. “I am pretty much retired but I work as a Retirement Coach, i.e. helping other people to have an emotionally-fulfilling retirement, which is not as obvious as it sounds. I have also written middlegrade children’s books around the character Worcester Glendenis, a 12-year-old boy detective.” Glass loves inner city living. He lives in Jackson’s Landing in Pyrmont, having migrated from Balmain in 2020. “I enjoy being in the compactness and busyness of the streets in the inner city. Jackson’s Landing in particular has amazing public transport, a rich history, and it’s just interesting to walk around.” May 20-22. Factory Theatre, 105 Victoria Rd, Marrickville. $28.90-$44.90+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.factorytheatre.com.au

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I WANT TO KNOW WHAT LOVE IS

DUSTYEKSY

BY IRINA DUNN ustyesky is a pun on the name of Russian writer Dostoevsky, a reflection of the humour conveyed by a bunch of 28 scruffy men, handsome hairy and wild, who have formed themselves into an Australian Russian male choir. Comrade Swainski, the musical boss, says everyone can sing. And they are proof of that. They are “Humble men – carpenters and teachers, inn-keepers and esoteric therapists – who love to sing!” Although based in Mullumgrad [Mullumbimby in northern NSW], they say that “Dustyesky is state of mind and that they are based wherever there is singing, vodka and love of life itself.” Was it difficult for the choir members to learn to sing in Russian?

Comrade Swiv says, “Is like opera. Most tenors or sopranos do not speak Italian when they start. But to be honest, have you tried? Is almost impossible. Like doing Rubik’s cube with your tongue.” “Dustyesky gets more love and support than any group of hairy middle aged men enjoying themselves could possibly deserve,” Comrade Swiv says. “Is like miracle. A real one.” “We were terrified at our first gig for an all-Russian audience. But we seem to remind Russians of the power and beauty of their culture. We are so grateful!” May 21-22. Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney. $65-$85+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.sydneyoperahouse.com

Photo: Lyn McCarthy

“We realised that there was a missing link and that we wanted to celebrate the everyday person and their extraordinary lives,” explained Ingram. This series of shows then became a “snowball” which saw them exploring a non-linear performance structure that is very visually appealing and also very physical. Ultimately though Ingram credits the “generosity of people with their stories” as the major inspiration. “The whole show takes you through the entire experience of love from Point A to Point B and everything in between,” said BY JAMIE APPS Ingram. “You’ll always get the urge to call someone after the show, whether that be ver the course of the last year one your mum or your lover.” constant, love, has kept us all sane Creating a show about love will obviously as we persevere through the toughest appeal to a female demographic but year many of us have ever experienced. Ingram also encourages men to see this Throughout the past 12 months we have show by saying, “come for the comedy, learned that “things may go wrong but at the end of the day we only have each other the physical performance and come to see what the world thinks about love. to lean on” in order to survive and thrive. Compare that with your own notes and Speaking with Amy Ingram, the co-creator think about it as an experiment into of theatre show I Want To Know What Love research and what to expect.” Is, we discussed the importance of love. On a broad level though Ingram said And how learning more about love helped shaped the show which will be taking to the everyone needs to see this show, and do so with a loved one. Darlinghurst Theatre stage this month. “Bring a friend, bring a lover, bring a Acclaimed Queensland performance family member, bring anyone. This is a collective The Good Room created I Want show that you really want to experience To Know What Love Is as the second instalment of a triptych of shows which were with other people.” May 19-22. Darlinghurst Theatre, designed to have a very strong connection 39 Burton St, Darlinghurst. with the audience. Rather than following the “traditional you come, you sit down, you $52-$62+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.darlinghursttheatre.com watch and then you go home” delivery of theatre, Ingram and The Good Room team If you would like to submit your own wanted to explore new forms of theatre love story and maybe have it and methods for engaging the audience, included in the show, visit: and hence the incorporation of public www.wewantyourlove.com submissions.

BY JARROD WOLFHUNTER eg Mombassa’s 24th exhibition, Simplicistism III: Shadowland contains his iconic cartoon-like imagery with distinct sardonic tones that harken to our seemingly dystopian, surveillance reality. Characterised by his emblematic Robot with Australian FJ Holden grill as mouthpiece, this exhibition talks to both domestic and global political themes like, economics, climate change, the pandemic, alpha-male egocentricity, totalitarianism vs. democracy, racism, sexism, and an abundance of other isms. Reg openly admits to erring on the cynical end of the cynic/optimist spectrum and does so comfortably. This exhibition contains many landscape

pieces - not intended to offset the mordant themes - all though, Reg concedes they likely do. In this exhibition, Reg has ventured into new territory featuring monochrome, inkwashed works only recently experimented with over the past few months. In a word, this exhibition is comprehensive, containing its own manifesto that is as humorous as serious, with only one commandment: Be Kind. At its core, the manifesto calls to step away from radical change, knock it back a few gears, and slow down the lightning rate at which capitalism is accelerating at. The desired outcome being improved mental health outcomes for global populations. Reg admits to always having grandiose

ambitions of global leadership and uses Trump’s incompetency as a landmark to leverage his ideology of simplicistism from. Reg is very much a titan of the Australian contemporary art scene and this exhibition is a demonstration of his decades of experience. It is thoughtprovoking and funny, trenchant and light-hearted, disturbing and sophisticated; this exhibition is a much-needed response in answer to our complicated and complex realities and will not disappoint. Until Jun 6. Rogue Pop-up Gallery, 130 Regent St, Redfern. Info: www.roguepopup.com.au

Photo: Greg Weight

REG MOMBASSA - SIMPLISTICISM III: SHADOWLAND

CITY HUB MAY 2021

HubARTS

NICHOLAS HAMILTON

Photo: Daniel Boud

BY RIDA BABAR omegrown singer-songwriter Imogen Clark is set to release her second EP, Bastards on May 21. A follow-up to her first EP, The Making Of Me, Clark’s unique indie-pop-rock tunes are sure to have heads turning. She will also be gracing the Low 302 in Surry Hills with a residency, performing every Tuesday night in May, designating a special theme to each performance. Kicking off on May 4, Clark performed a unique set list to the theme ‘Breakup Songs.’ In an interview with City Hub, Clark gave insight into what listeners can expect from Bastards. “It’s a bit of a continuation of the previous EP,” Clark mused. “That one was more about me figuring out my place in the world and learning more about myself after a long relationship, but this EP is more about the external forces in my life. It’s more about learning how relationships of all different kinds have affected me and have impacted my life.” When asked about her favourite part of performing live, Clark said “I think performing is the most fun for me because it’s a chance to see the way the songs I’ve written connect with people.” “When I write these songs, they’re so often autobiographical and they’re

ALL HOURS - PERSPECTIVES BY JAMIE APPS risbane pop-punk outfit All Hours are back with a new EP, Perspectives, where they once again bring their high energy sound. Led by vocalist Dani O’Grady it is hard not to listen to All Hours and immediately hear tinges of a fellow

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something I need to write about as my own cheap version of therapy. But then when I play them live, they take on a life of their own and sometimes people will take meaning from them that I didn’t intend when I wrote it.” “People will come up to me and say, ‘that song got me through a divorce, or through my family splitting up’ and those moments mean so much to me because it’s just another way of people not feeling alone in this world.” Staying true to the array of genres her music belongs to, Imogen Clark ended the interview by discussing her musical inspirations. “I love pop, rock, and indie I feel like I take pieces of all those when I write my music. I’ve got a pretty wide variety [of inspirations], I’m inspired by a lot of classic songwriters from the 60s and 70s, people like Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon. Also, a lot of modern stuff, I’m a huge Taylor Swift fan and I love Maggie Rogers.” “There’s so many great female songwriters and producers coming up at the moment and it’s a really exciting time to be a woman in music.” Find tickets to her residency and further information on her upcoming EP Bastards at www.imogenclark.com.au female led pop-punk group, Paramore. Across this quick five track offering All Hours have stuffed this EP with captivating and catchy hooks/melodies. There are moments right throughout where you can’t help but sing along and others where you’ll subconsciously find yourself tapping or nodding away to drum and guitar elements. This EP is going to be a great

Photo: Mike Falzone

FROM SYDNEY TO STARDOM: IMOGEN CLARK

BY JAMIE APPS ver the course of the last two years actor/musician Nicholas Hamilton has uprooted his life twice in order to move to the opposite side of the world and chase his dreams. Nic’s first big move came in 2019 when he relocated from a small town just outside Byron Bay to Los Angeles to pursue acting. However, when the world shutdown acting dried up and Nic again chose to pack his life into two bags and return to Australia to chase his other dream of becoming a professional musician. Since Nic was in the midst of completing his mandatory hotel quarantine period when he spoke with City Hub we asked how he had been whittling away the time. To our surprise he was rather upbeat about the experience. “I released a song, so that was pretty handy. In Line came out on Friday after I arrived in Australia on Monday, so that has taken up a lot of my time with press, live streams and performances,” Nic explained before shifting to his other time killing techniques. “I moved my whole life either into storage in LA or into two bags, which I have in quarantine with me. So I’ve got my Playstation and VR headset to keep me entertained.” This latest single, although only just released upon return to Australia was actually written before embarking on his journey to LA revealed Hamilton. “This is one of the oldest songs on the upcoming EP. I wrote it just before I moved out to the States with my guitarist and collaborating Ben Kuhl. We wrote it about my hesitance and trepidation about moving out to the States and whether it was the correct decision.” Bearing that in mind we asked if it seemed particularly fitting that the track is now releasing as Nic once again had to come to terms with another big life decision. “Being able to now come back here to release and tour music felt really natural,” answered Nic. “Once I moved over the States I started chasing music more fully, but it didn’t feel like I was doing that the right way so I’m really excited

to be back, and especially to move back to Byron to be a Byron musician.” With the way the world has dramatically changed over the last 12-18 months now is such a great time for Nic to be returning home. Not only can he now pursue music in a setting he feels more attuned with but there are also ample opportunities for him to continue to pursue his acting dreams. Particularly since Hollywood have increased their footprint in Australia with studios and productions setting up shop for the foreseeable future. “Stuff has been filmed in Australian for ages, that is not new but the amount of stuff filming here now is huge,” said Nic excitedly. “Netflix just opened up a tiny subset of their studio in my hometown, which is insane. I moved out of there two years ago to go to LA to achieve my dreams and now Netflix has opened a studio down the road from where I grew up. I’m excited to be back here not only for music but also the opportunities that the film industry is creating in Australia.” During our conversation Nic also spoke about how different things are between his first audition and auditions today, “My first audition at school involved one person auditioning 10 people at a time. Now it’s the exact opposite when I go into chemistry reads.” In closing Nic had to thank someone who altered his life forever, “I’m incredibly grateful to Paula, my Drama Teacher, for setting up that first school play. She was the one that sparked the love which made my life what it is today. I don’t think I would have done any of this had it not been for that play.”

introduction to the band for fans of this particular genre of music. Whilst not groundbreaking or revolutionary in its own right Perspectives certainly sets the foundations for a very compelling album release further down the line, one which I will personally be highly anticipating now. WWW1/2

HubARTS

EMA

BY PATRICK MCKENZIE hen someone says the words ‘art film,’ something like EMA should come to mind: A colourful, arresting visual aesthetic, freewheeling sequences in which dance substitutes dialogue, and a constant sense of unabated sensuality.

The film is a psychodrama about the eponymous character, a contemporary dancer, reckoning with both her divorce from the director of her dance company and the pyromaniacal adopted child that she and him recently returned to the orphanage. Directed by Chilean auteur Pablo Larraín in his follow-up to 2016’s chilling Jackie, the best way to describe EMA would be to call it kinetic – though occasionally too much for its own good. Music and movement fill the frame, which is more often than not affixed to EMA as she engages in an odyssey of affairs, intricate reggaeton dance routines, and wielding a flamethrower several times. It’s a challenging watch at first, but by the halfway point, Larraín has firmly established the electric ambience of a story that carries potent ideas on marriage, motherhood, and artistic expression. Repeated viewings would be rewarding. WWWW

JUNE AGAIN

THOSE WHO WISH ME DEAD

BY MARK MORELLINI his movie is a fast action-packed and nail-biting suspense thriller that should have audiences at the edge of their seats from beginning to end! The synopsis is simplistic where two assassins attempt to hunt down and kill a young teenager who was witness to his father’s murder. Lost in the Montana wilderness he entrusts a fire fighter (Angelina Jolie) who is fighting demons of her own. An engaging film that stars a host of well know actors in supporting roles including Nicholas Hoult and Aidan Gillen as the corrupt and murderous FBI agents who will stop at nothing to silence this teenager.

means well but do her children feel like disappointments to her? June Again resonates the importance of the family unit and is sluggish at times, moments thankfully negated by intermittent funny one-liners. The casting of Noni Hazlehurst, Claudia Karvan and Stephen Curry spells success for this film which aptly explores the debilitating effects of dementia on the family unit with a comical edge. Audiences should laugh, cry and ultimately stand up and cheer for this brave woman who through thick and thin has always held her family close to her heart. WWW1/2

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FINDING YOU

BY MARK MORELLINI udiences should not be surprised if, shortly after the film has commenced, they get a nagging feeling that they’ve seen all this before. It’s the story of Finley Sinclair (Rose Reid), a young American student who, after failing her violin audition to gain entrance into music school, flies off to Ireland and predictably meets Beckett Rush (Jedidiah Goodacre), a young actor who is described as the ‘biggest movie star in the world.’ She remarks, “He’s not my type,” but can a romance flourish? Does love ultimately conquer all evils including bitchy jealous actresses? He tells her, “You play like your personality – beautiful but a bit stiff.” The question on audiences’ minds will be whether the Irish adventure will evoke enough passion for Finley to return to New

A BY MARK MORELLINI ith dementia themed films Father and Supernova doing good business in cinemas, Australian dramedy June Again is set for release and should prove to be popular viewing for all audiences. Noni Hazlehurst shines as June, an elderly woman who had a stroke which led to vascular dementia. After five years in a nursing home, she awakens “back from the brink” and temporarily mentally stable. She escapes the nursing home and the film humorously follows her attempts at rescuing her family from their own blunders declaring, “Is there anything that hasn’t fallen in this family?” June

But the standout is Finn Little, a young Australian actor who puts so much energy and emotion into the role of the terrified teenager on the run that his performance overshadows top-billed Angelina Jolie, whose characterisation is somewhat subdued. Logic is defied in several incredulous scenes, where the traditionally over the top violent sequences successfully seize audiences. Ultimately it’s pure escapism for enthusiasts of this style of film, but for maximum enjoyment movie-goers should ensure their ‘reality meters’ are switched off before entering the theatre.

York and pass her audition. However, from what could have been a typical ‘same old, same old’ chick flick transpired a respectable and highly enjoyable film owing to the charismatic casting of the two leads and the atmospheric Irish heart and soul which is prevalent throughout. Audiences should warm to the quirky supporting cast, so much in fact that upon the film’s completion, audiences may wish they could journey to Ireland and join in on the fun! Emotional intensity builds in the second half and the subplot of Finley reuniting two elderly estranged sisters at times overshadows the primary romance storyline, but this heart-warming, feel-good story of ‘young love and old young’ delivers a romantic comedy in which audiences may shed a tear or two. WWW1/2 CITY HUB MAY 2021

Over 20 hectares of tree canopy have been destroyed in the last 12 months in the inner west.

Help us stop the inner west tree massacre. Labor and Liberal Councilors have teamed up to dismantle the Inner West Council’s tree policy to make it easier to rip out healthy, mature trees. It is a developers dream. In just one year, over 37 football fields of tree canopy have been destroyed. These trees will take decades to replace and their removal means hotter days, more air pollution, fewer birds and less wildlife. Sign the petition at www.jamieparker.org.au/tree

SIGN THE PETITION Authorised by Jamie Parker MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. April 2021. 24

CITY HUB MAY 2021