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CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

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HubNEWS

Cycling booms in inner-city (See p. 8)

Annandale skate park welcomed BY KATELYN MILLIGAN new skate park and refurbished playground in Annandale’s Federal Park was revealed by the City of Sydney last month. Lord Mayor Clover Moore highlights the increase in skate parks around the City of Sydney as an incentive to move skaters away from the streets and into the parks. “Skating is incredibly popular and these new skateparks mean people have a better alternative to skating on crowded footpaths or residential areas,” Lord Mayor Moore told City Hub. The skate plaza comprises rails, ledges, walls, banks, kerbs, stairs and a freestanding mini ramp for skateboarders, scooters and BMX riders to enjoy.

A HubARTS: COVID arts funding

Small theatres companies grasping to claim their share of $75 million COVID-19 relief fund (See p. 21)

PUBLISHED DATE 9 SEPTEMBER 2021 Published monthly 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 Editors: Daniel Lo Surdo, Eva Baxter Contributors: Daniel Lo Surdo, Eva Baxter, Travis Radford, Katelyn Milligan, Sasha Foot, Aston Brown Cartoonist: Sam Mcnair Arts Editor: Jamie Apps Contributors: Irina Dunn, Rita Bratovich, Madison Behringer, Mark Morellini, Renee Lou Dallow, Rida Babar, Olga Azar, Patrick McKenzie & Jarrod Wolfhunter, Lucinda Garbutt-Young, Tessa Pelle Cover Photo: Ann-Marie Calilhanna. Queer Screen Film Fest Director Lisa Rose Designer: Nadia Kalinitcheva Mail: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 Email: news@altmedia.net.au, arts@altmedia.net.au Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Website: cityhubsydney.com.au If you have a story, or any comments you’d like to share with us: news@altmedia.net.au @CityHubSydney

COMMUNITY BENEFITS

Daniel Whittle runs Skate Now, a Sydney based skate school that runs skateboarding lessons throughout the City of Sydney and Inner West. He says the new skate park is an asset to the skating community. “The new skatepark is an awesome amenity for the community. Even though this is the second new skatepark to open in the City of Sydney LGA recently, it offers different terrain and obstacles and is very popular and well utilised by kids, families and members of the skate community,” Whittle told City Hub. Despite the current COVID-19 environment, skaters are making the most of the new Federal Park skate park, with the City of Sydney’s parks and playgrounds remaining open for exercise and children’s recreation. “The local community is thoroughly enjoying the new skate zone at Federal Park, and I’ve been so impressed to see people of all ages carefully keeping their physical distance while using the new park,” Lord Mayor Moore said. Whittle says that skate parks remaining open during the current lockdown has been a blessing to the skating community. “It’s been different to last year’s lockdown when skateparks were all closed,” he said. “We’ve seen an increase in people both young and old wanting to learn to skate, and core skaters also wanting to get out on their boards more to get

The Federal Park skate park has welcomed skaters from all pockets of the community. Photo: City of Sydney/Chris Southwood

out of the house for an exercise break and use skateboarding as an outlet in a stressful time.”

TOKYO TO ANNANDALE

Annandale local Stephen Langella believes the skate park upgrades have been well designed and adds value to Federal Park. “Placing the skatepark in and around the arches gives it prominence rather than squirrelled away in some disused corner which the previous facility was. The skate park adds to the diversity of uses to the park and it was great [to see] kids of all ages getting out on their boards, skates, scooters and even BMX’s.”

Placing the skatepark in and around the arches gives it prominence With the recent introduction of skateboarding at the Olympics and growing recognition for the sport, Whittle believes that skate parks in the inner-city region will help support kids who want to give it a go. “It really is a benefit to the whole community to have these vibrant, activated spaces that everyone can enjoy and with skateboarding now an Olympic sport, skateparks provide kids an opportunity to possibly take it to the next level,” Whittle said. Construction on the skate park began in 2019 and was funded through the City of Sydney’s capital works program.

The nearby playground has been refurbished to create a large play space near Federal Park playing field. A new recreational space, west of the Glebe railway viaduct, has also been opened, along with conservation works on the archways. Lord Mayor Clover Moore says the recent Federal Park developments are all part of the Johnston’s Creek masterplan. “We’re working with Sydney Water to naturalise Johnston’s Creek,” Lord Mayor Moore said. “All of this work … is greatly improving the quality of open space on the Glebe foreshore.” Federal Park’s current uses are a far cry from Leichardt Council’s original plans for green open space in 2003. Former Leichhardt Mayor Maire Sheehan says the ratepayers of Leichhardt Council paid for the purchase of the land and supported the zoning for green open space. When the land was transferred to the City of Sydney by the State Government the zoning uses were changed by Council. “When the City took it over, they changed it and replaced green space with a childcare centre and the skatepark,” Sheehan told City Hub. “Local people in Leichhardt said we don’t agree with it being changed like this, but the City went ahead anyway.” The City of Sydney’s jurisdiction over Federal Park meant locals in the Leichhardt Council area were no longer residents of the LGA making the decision. CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

HubNEWS

Inner West Council gets new Mayor

BY EVA BAXTER reens councillor Rochelle Porteous has been voted in as the new Mayor of the Inner West after defeating Labor Mayor Darcy Byrne and Independent Deputy Mayor Vic Macri for the position. The new Mayor and Deputy Mayor will hold the position until this Council term concludes in three months, coinciding with the local government elections. Councillors will vote for Mayoral positions again from a pool of potential new and existing Councillors. Porteous is not standing for re-election. After receiving the fewest votes Macri was excluded and the voting continued between the two remaining candidates.

These three months are a chance to reset Councillor Porteous received seven votes to Councillor Byrne’s five votes in the second round and she was declared Mayor. Councillor Passas, Raciti and Macri abstained from the vote, and Councillor Stamolis switched his original vote from Councillor Macri to Councillor Porteous. Councillor Stamolis told the City Hub he hopes the change in positions will assist in steering the council away from its problems and infighting. Independent councillor Pauline Lockie was then voted in as Deputy Mayor, beating Councillor Mckenna seven votes to five votes.

Rochelle Porteous has been voted the new Mayor of the Inner West. Photo: Greens on Council

Councillor Passas, Raciti and Macri abstained from voting.

THREE-MONTH RUN

Deputy Mayor Lockie told the City Hub these three months are a chance to reset the culture of the council.

“We’ve had a very combative term of Council, not just within the elected body, but also between the elected body and the operational side of Council, and that hasn’t been good for anyone, and it definitely hasn’t been good for our residents. “If we can bring a sense of calm, get the meetings happening more productively, more collegiately, rebuild that trust between the elected body and the organisation itself, and more importantly, make sure that our community is front and centre throughout everything we do, then that can only be a positive thing,” she said. The former Mayor Darcy Byrne called the election of a new Mayor and Deputy Mayor with three months left of Council ‘ridiculous.’ He said there was a backroom deal to remove him. Byrne has been found guilty of misconduct by the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal which decided his right to be paid should be suspended for three months. Lockie said findings of misconduct are serious. Councillor Macri told the City Hub the outcome of the vote was close. “It says something when you can only gather seven votes. That means half the council isn’t really happy with the direction that it’s going, so it doesn’t really spell a bright future. “I would’ve liked to see if we could have got a candidate in that could have gotten closer to the three-quarter mark,” he said.

Inner West Council candidates’ forum

A great start at I N T E R N AT I O N A L G R A M M A R S C H O O L

Sunday 14 November from 3pm to 5pm To celebrate the City Hub’s 26th anniversary, we will host a forum for candidates in the upcoming Inner West Council elections. • Meet select candidates from across all four wards • Bring your questions • Participate in the democratic process

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Co-educational and secular

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Early Learning to Year 12

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Central location near Sydney CBD

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Out of School Hours Care (OSHC)

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Celebrating diversity and personal achievement

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Join our local school with a global outlook

Find out more and book a tour: igssyd.nsw.edu.au | 9219 6700 admissions@igssyd.nsw.edu.au 4

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CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

Special screening of Rats in the Ranks Sunday 14 November 5:30pm Following the candidate’s forum, we will have a special screening of Rats in the Ranks Shot and screened around the time of the City Hub’s launch in 1995, Rats in the Ranks is a classic look at local politics in the Inner West.

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“An astonishing combination of suspense and humour.. Five stars” David Stratton “I agree. Five stars from me also. It is about democracy and the flaws of human beings. Love it” Margaret Pomeranz

make sure the food gets delivered during the lockdown, a time when people can feel frightened, alone, without work, without money.

Songs in the Key of Life by Mark Mordue Another end of day, only a trace of last bird call to see us into the evening. This place is a home to a lot of people, and a backstop to many more. Right now, Addi Road is serving as a linchpin between the larger food relief organisations and a plethora of civil society groups, charity and community organisations. All of us making sure people across the inner west, the city, the east and the south west of Sydney have food on their table tonight. We’re running 30 shifts a week, morning and afternoon, with over 260 volunteers giving their best to help pack food hamper boxes. Each

one inspiring the other. A few of them say how much they love the work, how they feel less isolated, how their powerlessness has turned into something here that makes them stronger. Along with all the charities and community groups, including many that have arisen like wild flowers to help the people they know, are our own team of volunteer drivers – packing their cars and heading off into the day to make contactless deliveries. A few staff and volunteers are taking up to 300 phone calls a day, noting down the addresses and reassuring people that food is on the way. They hear all the stories. Some days they cry, with and for the people they talk to. Then they

Back over at our hall, converted into a Food Relief Hub, the team at work hums on, packing and putting hamper boxes on to pallets each morning … the police are here from Burwood picking up boxes to help those they visit…. Deadly Connections have backed up a van to feed Indigenous families in the inner west… Lighthouse Community Support have a van here too to get food out to the south west where the lockdown is felt hardest… More cars, more vans. A few thousand hampers this week, moving out and all over. We try to to listen to what these different and very active groups tell us about what kind of food is needed, what is culturally appropriate. And what is going on on the hearts and minds of everyone. Not just the details, but how it really feels and what we might do better. Eight weeks into the lockdown – and a while yet to go. But we’re adapting to the changing virus and changing needs, and getting better at what we do after a solid year of this food relief work since the pandemic first began affecting our community. It’s time to go home and eat and rest ourselves. Everyone will be back here, bright and early tomorrow, making the place sing in answer to the call of the city….

go even faster.” Matthew suddenly gets on a riff about the discipline of wearing masks and being careful for the sake of yourself and others, wherever you are. “Hey, what do you call a man without a mask?” he asks. There’s a long, uncertain pause before he answers himself. “Mr 500!”

Who Was That Masked Man? Matthew is a volunteer here at Addi Road’s Food Relief Hub. He’s been working with us now for a year and a half, right from when “the whole COVID thing” first started to have an impact on Sydney back in March 2020. He takes a generous view of why he has kept returning and volunteering with us up to the present day. “Well, you guys helped me when I was feeling down. Don’t forget that. Coming here is not just a duty for the volunteers. There are people who are here for their minds as well, you know,” he says, touching the side of his head for emphasis. “It feels good to communicate and work together. To be a part of it all together.” Even so, Matthew admits “things are definitely getting more intensive and more focussed. Just the sheer volume of what we are packing. The fruit and vegetables we have to sort. It’s really gone up over last three weeks; you can feel it and you can see it.” Then he laughs and says, “But the atmosphere is still pretty relaxed we talk, we play music. We

The joke flies over everyone’s heads. “Don’t you get it? Because it is a $500 fine for not wearing a mask when you should.” He rattles out a string of ‘500’ jokes that are all variations on this first one. For some reason he has got people laughing with him. Matthew often tells jokes like these. If we want to take a picture, he says he’s happy to stand beside pallets of food hampers that he’s helped pack and then stack. They are only some of the hundreds of hampers that are going out today from Addi Road, thanks to all the charity and civil society groups distributing them, and our team of volunteer drivers. And, of course, thanks to people like Matthew volunteering inside our Food Relief Hub. “Just call me Masked Matt when you write this story,” he says. “That’s me. Masked Matt to the rescue!” Addi Road has enough wonderful volunteers at the moment. So many we can’t quite manage all the enquiries we are getting! But if you’d really like to help, it would be great if you shared our social media and website posts. You can also donate directly to our food relief work here: www.addiroad.org.au

Reading and Happiness Victoria chose Addi Road's children's book The Hollow Tree for her book parade today. Like many children, Victoria had to celebrate her school event online. But this was a day she and her friends really put their hearts and souls and imaginations into. Her mother Dulce told us that "she chose The Hollow Tree because she loves to imagine the secret worlds of animals – the worlds that no one notices – and the understanding that nothing really dies. Even a hollow tree without leaves or branches is full with life." The Hollow Tree was created here at Addi Road. It's a beautiful story to read to your children, or as a gift to those of primary school age. You can buy a copy via www.-addiroad.org.au/publications/

CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

HubNEWS

City joins Green Legacy Hiroshima project SEEDING PROBLEMS

By EVA BAXTER ity of Sydney Council voted unanimously to join the Green Legacy Hiroshima project last month and have begun working with the Royal Botanic Gardens to secure the seed of a tree that survived the Hiroshima atomic bombings. This year is the 76th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Between 129,000 and 226,000 people were killed. Green Legacy Hiroshima safeguards and spreads the seeds and saplings of Hiroshima’s survivor trees which have become a symbol for peace and nuclear disarmament.

This isn’t ancient history Hannah Middleton, an activist with the Sydney Hiroshima Day Committee, appealed to Council to bring a Hiroshima survivor tree to the city. “It was a really a crime against humanity. So many people died at that time, so many people suffered appallingly. People have died since, as a result of radiation sickness. The use of nuclear weapons is an abomination,” she told City Hub.

City of Sydney is sourcing a seed from the Gingko tree (pictured), one of the trees that survived the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Photo: Pixabay

The Hiroshima Day Committee has taken to the streets in protest over the last few years with their slogan, ‘Hiroshima Never Again.’ In 2017, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN) opened for signature at the United Nations and entered into force in January this year. The treaty bans the production, testing, use and possession of nuclear weapons,

and establishes a framework for their elimination. There are currently 86 signatories, including New Zealand. Australia has not ratified the treaty, despite the fact that ICAN’s roots were sowed in Melbourne in 2007. ICAN was awarded the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize for their work in achieving the nuclear weapon ban treaty.

Australia’s strict controls over the importation of live seeds have led to problems in securing a survivor tree. Deputy Lord Mayor Jess Scully said the Council has been chipping away at this project for two years. “It’s a memorial to that one particular terrible, nuclear incident, but this is still an active threat in our world,” Scully told City Hub. “This isn’t ancient history, this is still a live issue where I think for many of us when we’re in the bubble of the world that we’re in right now, it’s not at the front of our minds.” The Royal Botanic Gardens agreed to partner with the council to cultivate the seed to a sapling until the trees are sufficient maturity and size to survive at a decided position in the city. The Botanic Gardens have been key partners to the 36 countries and 118 cities around the world that are hosts to the survivor trees. Green Legacy Hiroshima is a selfdescribed 1000-year campaign. “It’s very rare to come across a project with that level of long-term ambition,” said Scully.

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CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

HubNEWS

Court refuses to turn terraces into hotel

BY EVA BAXTER ix Victorian terraces in Hardie Street, Darlinghurst will not be turned into a hotel in a decision by the Land and Environment Court (LEC) on Friday, August 6. The site is located within the Oxford Street (Darlinghurst Road) and Victoria Street Heritage Conservation Area. Development consent was not granted because the commissioner was not of the opinion that the proposal exhibited design excellence. The commissioner found that the proposal would have a most serious effect on the seventh terrace in the row, in which resides Louise Butler. Butler told City Hub Practec made her repeated offers to buy the seventh terrace, and after being knocked back they sent a final offer stating they would go ahead.

Butler was “devastated” when she saw the DA that outlined a five storey, 69 room hotel, “that would completely dwarf my home, and it would mean years and years of development.” Practec proposed demolition of much of the rear or eastern half of the terraces, including the rear wings, as well as removal of a number of existing trees.

Various works to the front façade would be undertaken including new cast iron lacework and door detailing. Operationally, there would be a maximum of 131 guests, with reception open between 7AM and 10PM.

TERRACE TUSSLE

The residents of Hardie Street organised an opposition with a petition that has over 2000 signatures, and City of Sydney Council received over 200 written submissions, most in opposition of the development.

The proposal was ‘severe’ to ‘devastating The development was described as a dense visual bulk inconsistent with the scale and form of surrounding buildings and as having an unreasonable overbearing impact on Butler’s residence. The commissioner said the loss of morning sun during winter and other periods to a good portion of the courtyard, sunlight to the living room and the visual massing or sense of enclosure of the proposal in the courtyard was “severe” to “devastating.”

Developer Practec proposed demolition of much of the rear of the terraces, as well as removal of a number of existing trees. Photo: Supplied

“I would go from having a beautiful sunny backyard with views of the trees and the sky and birds in the trees in the backyards of those six properties to living in 100% darkness, no sun at all, 365 days a year,” said Butler. She said she wasn’t confident in the court case, but “it went the way it

should, and I’m really thrilled that it did.” She said it would have changed the character of the street, “it becomes what they introduce.” “This was just a wrecking ball, both metaphorically and physically,” said Butler.

Community group call on Paul Keating Barangaroo Delivery Authority that gifted Sydney with Barangaroo Headland. In 2015 Keating pushed to recreate the original headland at Barangaroo which delivered 50% public open space across the site. In a video published by the Sydney Morning Herald, Keating said the result would have never come out of the state planning process. “Not a chance,” he said. The Bays Water Club Collective sent the letter to Keating to request that he support calls for a higher quality development. “When they developed Barangaroo it was just a concrete block, the same as the Bays is now,” White told City Hub. “We’ve only got 30% public open space in Blackwattle Bay, whereas Barangaroo got 50%.”

Blackwattle Bay renewal plans have 30% public space allocated. Pressure from Paul Keating meant Barangaroo Headland was delivered with 50% public space. Photo: Ruth Caro

BY EVA BAXTER he Blackwattle Bay Precinct Plan has been criticised as being designed for profits not people. The Bays Water Club Collective represents nearly 2000 people who row, kayak and dragon boat and use the Bays for exercise and recreation every week.

Jacob White, the convener of the Collective is a rower and by trade, a town planner. He said in a letter to former PM Paul Keating that when he studied urban planning at university, he was taught it was Keating’s strategic and commanding interventions at the

STATE SIGNIFICANCE

Blackwattle Bay Precinct Plan is a State Significant precinct, which means amendments to zones and planning controls can be made. State significant precincts are projects of state or regional importance for achieving government policy objectives, particularly those relating to increasing delivery of housing and jobs.

The Blackwattle Bay renewal plans to deliver 1550 dwellings providing for a population of around 2800 residents and commercial and retail floor space with potential to deliver 5600 jobs. The Bays Water Club Collective said, “State Significant Developments means the Minister is able to make wholesale changes to local zoning and planning controls with minimal input from the local community or from council.

It erodes trust in government “The critical first stage of the Bays redevelopment should be creating opportunities for community input. Instead, this proposal is actively removing them. “Government exempting itself from its own rules undermines the integrity of the planning system and erodes community trust in government.” He said the Collective is concerned that Blackwattle Bay has been broken off from the rest of the bays in this stage of development. “We’re concerned that they’re going to see what they can get away with in this little corner of the bay and then just roll that out across the rest of the bays and say, well we did that here so we can do it over here as well,” he said. CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

HubNEWS

Cycling surges in the inner-city BY DANIEL LO SURDO he inner-city has seen a boom in cycling use in the past two years. The City of Sydney’s 2021 Active Transport Survey revealed that regular cycling has more than doubled since 2019, with more than half of regular cyclists beginning in the last two years. State Member for Newtown Jenny Leong embraced the findings.

“It’s great to see that so many people living in the Newtown electorate have embraced walking and cycling at this time,” Ms Leong told City Hub. “It shows that the community really appreciates the extra opportunities for walking and cycling that have become available during the pandemic and that people will take up options to cycle particularly when the infrastructure is in place.” The City of Sydney has expansive cycling networks including Newtown’s Wilson and Lennox Street. Pop-up cycleways have continued to grow across the inner-city to encourage independent commuting patterns and free up space on public transport and roads.

CRUNCHING THE NUMBERS Data from the Active Transport Survey suggests that increased accessibility for cycling has been welcomed in the inner-city. 18 per cent of respondents owned a bike and used it at least once a month, an increase of 7 per cent from 2017. Those who don’t own a bicycle and are not interested in riding a bike accounted for 35 per cent of respondents, a 13 per cent decrease from figures four years ago. Reasons for an uptick in regular cyclists, defined as those that own a bike and use it at least once a month, were dominated by two factors: a desire to be healthy (58 per cent of online respondents) and discovery of places/ routes where it is good to ride (52 per cent). The latter factor saw a 28 per cent spike from the 2017 survey, the largest of any option. “[We] have always strongly called for state governments to properly fund local councils to be able to develop bike paths and accessible pedestrian footpaths,” Ms Leong said. “Now that so many people are changing the way they get around, it’s absolutely crucial that the state government ensures that some of the temporary fixes can be turned into long term passive transport options. “It is also critical that consideration is given to accessibility - there are so many 8

CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

Cycling has boomed in the inner-city. Photo: City of Sydney

areas where improvements need to be made to ensure our city is an inclusive one for all people to get around.” Changes in cycling patterns have also been precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, whereby decreased patronage on public transport has behoved Sydneysiders to seek independent avenues of movement. 19 per cent of regular cyclists in the survey listed their uptick to measures implemented by their workplaces, with 16 per cent riding frequently as it is part of their job.

 It’s easy for most people and families to get around Patronage across state transport infrastructure is down approximately 90 per cent when compared to prepandemic levels, with many employees adjusting their commuting patterns to minimise their risk of infection and transmission. Regular riders generally felt confident riding on the inner-city’s cycling network. 68 per cent rated themselves at least moderately confident, with 31 per cent as very confident. 6 per cent were not at all confident about riding in the

inner-city. As part of the City of Sydney’s cycling map, each cycleway is described by its terrain and conditions, with offroad shared paths such as Victoria Park and separated off-road cycleways including Wilson Street signposted for cyclists to reference. Ms Leong believes that inclusive structures are crucial for the continued strength of sustainable commuting in the inner city. “Our … community is fortunate in that the area between suburbs and parks is not very large and therefore it’s easy for most people and families to get around to shop and access services either by walking or cycling,” Ms Leong said. “But this can only happen when the infrastructure is in place to make this safe and accessible.”

OPENING FUTURE AVENUES

Respondents that used their bicycle less than once a month were classified as infrequent riders. 76 per cent of infrequent riders were either moderately interested (52 per cent) or very interested (24 per cent) in riding more regularly. Among infrequent riders, reasons for riding more often were led by fitness and leisure (58 per cent) and visiting parks/ cycleways (53 per cent). Visiting parks

and cycleways were up 10 per cent from 2017 while riding for fitness and leisure decreased 16 per cent from four years ago. Infrequent riders cycling to school or university also increased 10 per cent from 2017. Factors discouraging more riding for infrequent riders were headlined by the danger of inner-city traffic (56 per cent), a lack of sufficient off-road pathways (45 per cent) and a failure to be comfortable in shoulder lanes near parked cars (42 per cent). The NSW Government and City of Sydney Council’s city centre access strategy has worked to mitigate the risks of cycling in the inner-city and CBD. To create a safer environment for cyclists, speed limits in the city centre have been reduced to 40km/h and cycleway networks have grown to include both offroad and shared paths for commuters. Council’s cycling strategy and action plan 2018-2030 is a key framework that has listed a target of 10 per cent of all trips in the city to be made by bicycle. Pop-up cycleways were introduced as part of the response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and have been wellreceived by the inner-city community, with the network expected to expand in coming years.

HubNEWS

Virtual tourism may end cheap travel

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The ‘secret’ golden cliffs from Mr Urmenyhazi’s virtual tours. His virtual tour kit consists of a gimbal, an iPhone and a ‘big selfie stick.’ Photo: Supplied

BY TRAVIS RADFORD irtual travel experiences may enjoy sustained success even after COVID-19 is controlled, if the price of physical travel rises as a tourism expert has predicted. “With borders closed, with quarantines imposed in many countries, with great limitations in the ability of people to travel, how are you going to experience the rest of the world?” said tourism expert Dr David Beirman. “One way … would be virtual tourism,” he said. For Matt Urmenyhazi, virtual tourism was the saving grace of his six-monthold business. “I got into virtual tourism out of desperation really, I was a tour guide [and] wasn’t getting any work because of COVID,” Urmenyhazi said. Urmenyhazi’s tours go anywhere he can, without the need to consider the safety or ability of his guests.

FUTURISTIC TRAVEL

Dr Beirman expects the popularity of virtual experiences will continue to grow even after Australia’s global travel moratorium is lifted. “You’re not going to even be able to charge the same kind of money as you would if people go on a tour where they actually have to fly to somewhere [and] stay in somewhere,” he said. “It will become an option for people who want the ambience and the experience without necessarily the drain on the pocket.” A 2019 report by Tourism Research Australia (TRA) that was released before

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the pandemic named virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) as threats to the tourism industry. The report singled out VR and said that if it could replace in-person experiences, it could lead to physical travel being reserved for wealthy people. Dr Beirman believes that TRA’s prediction will come true, but not because of the cheaper cost of virtual travel or increasingly realistic experiences like those offered by VR.

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I got into virtual tourism out of desperation

VACCINE ELIGIBILITY

“Coronavirus has been the biggest paradigm shifting event that tourism’s ever experienced,” he said. “For the last 70 years … the travel industry worked on high volume, low yield. So, what you had is lots of people paying very little money … [and] travel was getting cheaper.” COVID-19 put a stop to this trend, with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) reporting a US$4.5 trillion loss to the global travel and tourism sector in 2020 alone. “For tourism businesses to be viable into the future, they can’t really afford the luxury, from their point of view, of doing it on the cheap,” said Dr Beirman. “We’ll have a short period when travel starts coming back, where there’ll be some cheap fares around, but I think it’s going to be a very short period. “After COVID, it’s [physical travel] going to probably go back to being a very, fairly elitist activity.”

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THANKS TO YOU, we are saving lives and stopping the spread of Covid-19. We’re all in this together, so let’s continue to keep each other safe.

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CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

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Voluntary assisted dying Community disillusioned as Inquiry is launched debate reignited BY DANIEL LO SURDO ederal Parliament launched a new Inquiry to housing affordability and supply in Australia last month.

But if we’re honest we’re not expecting anything substantial to come from the review,” Mr Engeler told City Hub. “The housing market has moved a long way from what many would say is its The Inquiry was announced by the House inherent and essential purpose – to of Representatives Standing Committee provide secure, functional and affordable on Tax and Revenue Chair Jason shelter to all people at various stages of Falinski after data from the Reserve their life.” Bank of Australia, the Treasury and the “It is now distorted by a variety of Australian Bureau of Statistics showed home ownership to be falling for the past financial and taxation incentives; driven by quite predictable … commercial and 30 years. speculative investment motivations.” Mr Engeler understands that the Federal SERVING THE PEOPLE Inquiry must address the inequities Mr Falinski pointed to the present in the private housing sector. uncompromising ratio of housing prices “The private housing market in this to household incomes as a key issue country consistently fails to provide plaguing home ownership in Australia. secure, functional and affordable shelter, “Australia’s unusually high level of especially for the lowest forty per cent of inelasticity in housing is the major driver income earners,” Mr Engeler said.

Shayne Higson (far left) at the Dying with Dignity rally in front of NSW Parliament on the day of the vote in November 2017. Photo: Supplied

Greenwich has had indications that the BY KATELYN MILLIGAN bill will be cosponsored from members he euthanasia debate has been across the political spectrum. reignited by the release of a draft There is significant support for the voluntary assisted dying bill by bill from constituents. The Dying with Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich in Dignity petition for NSW Parliament to July. pass voluntary assisted dying laws has The bill will give adults suffering with garnered almost 90,000 signatures. neurodegenerative conditions or A poll by the Health Services Union terminal illness that will cause death revealed that 89% of members support within six months or twelve months assisted dying law reform. The bill has access to voluntary assisted dying. In 2017 NSW was at the forefront of the further been endorsed by the Australian Paramedics Association and Cancer voluntary euthanasia debate, however the bill was rejected by the upper house Voices NSW. The bill is a after a 20 to 19 vote. conservative model  The law reform offers a Victoria, South of voluntary assisted Australia, Western compassionate choice dying, with strong Australia, and safeguards in place to ensure those Tasmania have all passed legislation, who are terminally ill and whose whilst a bill is now before Queensland suffering cannot be alleviated are Parliament. acting voluntarily and without pressure NSW is one of the only remaining states or duress. Two independent doctors to introduce voluntary assisted dying must assess the patient and ensure laws. they meet all eligibility criteria. As Parliament has not sat since June DYING WITH DIGNITY 24, Greenwich was unable to present Vice President of Dying with Dignity the bill to Parliament in mid-August as Shayne Higson said the law reform will planned. offer people suffering from a terminal With speculation that NSW Parliament illness a compassionate choice. may not sit again until October, there “They deserve to have a choice. And are concerns that the voluntary assisted what that means for the patient is dying bill will be further delayed. that they can choose the timing, and “We do hope that the government matter of their death and die peacefully does not try and delay it any further, surrounded by their loved ones,” Higson because every day that we don’t have told City Hub. this law, there are going to be more dying The sensitive matter will allow NSW individuals who are facing unbearable Parliament members to cast a suffering at the end of their lives and conscience vote. more families traumatized by watching on,” Higson said. Whilst NSW Opposition Leader Chris Greenwich hopes to present the bill Minns and Premier Gladys Berejiklian have both expressed opposition to the bill, later this month.

CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

Federal Parliament has launched an Inquiry into housing. Photo: Daniel Lo Surdo

of this ratio,” Mr Falinski said. “This has resulted in our country having the fourth-fastest house price growth out of the world’s advanced economies over the past 20 years.”

We’re not expecting anything substantial to come from the review Submissions from interested individuals and parties are open until 13 September, with many organisations, including National Shelter, having already signalled their intent to file a submission to Federal Parliament. Shelter NSW CEO John Engeler holds little optimism for the Inquiry. “We can always hope that [it] will produce recommendations to create a more equitable and inclusive housing market.

“Unless and until the fundamentals of the housing system are changed – moving away from its overhyped, supercharged state back to its original purpose, we say that Governments need to step in to build or acquire housing for people who need it.” Shelter NSW recently made a submission to the State Government about its planning law reform, after the non-profit previously signalled their support for an Affordable Rental Housing non-market alternative model to capitalise on the value created from development and planning system decisions and to provide public good. The Inquiry will investigate the impact of tax and regulatory regimes on price, affordability and supply of housing in Australia today as well as in the future. Public hearings for the Inquiry will be held and organised by the Standing Committee on Tax and Revenue.

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Ex-pats renew interest in housing market BY KATELYN MILLIGAN eturning ex-pats have fuelled the rising demand in Sydney’s eastern suburbs real estate. Following a recent surge in the property market, ANZ has raised its Sydney house price growth forecast to over 20 per cent, a stark difference from the average capital growth of 7.4 per cent over the past 40 years. Property sales agent and Gracie George Director Catherine Dixon has seen about a 30 per cent increase in the Paddington property market alone. “The government’s saying that there were a million ex-pats coming from overseas back into Australia since COVID started, a good proportion of those would go to the eastern suburbs in Sydney, and then a proportion of those would go to Paddington,” Dixon told City Hub. “You’ve got double the amount of buyers you normally have.”

The Oxford Street and Paddington Place Plan highlights Woollahra Council’s two key objectives for the area: to create a destination for Oxford Street’s infamous boutique retail and the high activity local areas, such as Five Ways.

LOCAL VIEW

A consistent trend in recent years is that properties in high demand result in a sale prior to auction. Dixon points to a recent sale on Elfred

 You’ve got double the amount of buyers you normally have

People returning to Paddington during COVID-19 has increased property value in the Eastern Suburbs. Photo: realcommercial.com.au

Street, which increased by $1.15 million in 18 months. With building restrictions on Paddington to conserve the heritage of the area, there is increased pressure on supply. Woollahra Councillor Matthew Robertson has lived in Paddington for ten years. He says the liveability and heritage of Paddington is a treasured characteristic of the neighbourhood.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE TWO TELSTRA MOBILE PHONE BASE STATIONS WITH 5G IN HAYMARKET AND ULTIMO 1. The proposed works consist of: Goulburn St Parking Station, 101-103 GOULBURN STREET, HAYMARKET NSW 2000 www.rfnsa.com.au/2000084 The proposed works on the rooftop consist of: • The reconfiguration of existing antennas to enable 5G technologies • The replacement and installation of ancillary Radio Units and filters • Internal upgrades in the existing shelter Howard Silvers Building, 620 Harris Street, ULTIMO NSW 2007 www.rfnsa.com.au/2007001 The proposed works on the rooftop consist of: • The removal of (3) Panel antennas and the reconfiguration of existing antennas to enable 5G technologies • The replacement and installation of ancillary Radio Units and filters • Internal upgrades in the existing shelter 2. 3.

Telstra regards each of the proposed installations as a Maintenance activity under Telecommunication Act 1997 Schedule 3 Part 1 Division 4, based on the description above In accordance with Section 7 of C564: 2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposals. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Emily Wardlaw on behalf of Telstra, 0422 685 472, consultation@acquirecomm.com.au by Friday 24 September 2021. Further information can also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au

“Paddington is a very special area. The fact that you can walk down to the shops and bump into your neighbours on the way. It’s a wonderful community to be in and that heritage layout of the whole suburb is really what gives rise to that,” Councillor Robertson told City Hub. “It’s not a dynamic that you find replicated in other suburbs further afield in Sydney.”

“We want to see a thriving set of local businesses that are serving local residents,” Councillor Robertson said. A retail and residence space located in Paddington’s Five Ways, currently occupied by Zoit Hair, recently sold for $3.29 million, $1.04 million above its reserve. Raine and Horne Double Bay realestate agent that sold the property, Paul Langsam, says over 80 groups privately viewed the property. “I think the main drawcard is the charm of a terrace … the opportunity to have a dual-income of residential as well as commercial. And then also just the location, the village atmosphere is highly appealing,” Langsam told City Hub.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT WATERLOO Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 336 George St, Waterloo, NSW 2017 www.rfnsa.com.au/2017004 1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of NR850 (5G) & NR/LTE2600 technologies at Waterloo locality and surrounds 2. The proposed upgrade comprises of the removal of six (6) existing panel antennas, the reconfiguration of three (3) existing panel antennas, the installation of three (3) panel antennas (5G) (each no more than 2.8m long) and works to associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility 3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description 4. 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 written submissions should be directed to Brenda Perez-Torres, Aurecon Australasia via email to: Brenda.perez-torres@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Brenda Pere-Torres, Aurecon Australasia Aurecon Centre PO Box 23061 Docklands VIC 8012 by 5pm on 23/09/2021. CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

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Historic school modification disregards advice BY KATELYN MILLIGAN chool infrastructure NSW has been criticised for ‘picking and choosing’ which heritage regulation to adhere to in its $53 million Fort Street Public School redevelopment program. Fort Street Public School is one of Australia’s oldest public schools, located within the heritage listed Millers Point and Dawes Point Village Precinct. After redevelopment plans for the school were approved last October, a modification of the plans for an extra storey has been proposed.

This sets a bad precedent The modification infringes a selfimposed requirement. School Infrastructure NSW conservation management plan for the project emphasised that the Bureau of Meteorology (MET) building must remain the tallest and most dominant building on the hill, to maintain the visual and historical relationship between surrounding heritage buildings. The proposed 3.5m height increase will make the school the tallest building on

Observatory Hill, exceeding the height of the MET. The National Trust, based in the 1815 military hospital behind the school, will be one of the surrounding heritage buildings impacted. Director of The National Trust David Burdon believes this modification has gone too far. “This sets a very bad precedent for the Millers Point community…Homeowners in Miller’s point are bound by some of the strictest heritage controls in the state and for the government to then

2279 Eastgardens: 75 Corish Circle, Banksmeadow NSW 2019 (RFNSA 2019004) The proposed facility consists of the addition of new equipment and associated works, including 5G, as follows: • Removal of existing Vodafone antennas and equipment • Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 2.7m long, on the existing headframe • Installation of three (3) panel antennas, 0.8m long, on the existing headframe • Installation of ancillary equipment including fifteen (15) remote radio units, antenna mounts and cabling 1. Vodafone regards the proposed installations as Low-impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”), based on the description above 2. 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 Vanessa Wan at Axicom, 02 9495 9000, community@axicom.com.au or Level 1, 110 Pacific Highway, St Leonards NSW 2065 by Friday 24 September 2021. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2019004. CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

Community expressed opposition to the modification during the community engagement process, with all nongovernment organisations and the majority of public submissions objecting the proposal. In the Department’s response to submissions, it noted that the modification would result in a “suboptimal heritage outcome”, with the height increase dismissed as a “minor non-compliance” with the conservation management policy.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT BANKSMEADOW INCLUDING 5G

HEIGHT FIGHT

The proposed 3.5m height increase will make the school the tallest building on Observatory Hill. Photo: Wikimedia

just ignore their own heritage constraints and advice. “There is a bit of pick and choose going on. But we think that the addition of an extra floor is one step too far. And it’s just such an obvious heritage intrusion for the site,” Burdon told City Hub. A spokesperson for the Department of Education told City Hub that the primary purpose of adding an extra storey to Building J is to improve access to the MET building rooftop outdoor learning space and to support educational outcomes.

“The guideline does not state that new buildings must not exceed those of existing heritage items, but recommends that they should not, allowing flexibility to achieve the best overall heritage outcome for the site,” said School Infrastructure NSW in its response. Burdon says that the school redevelopment can have the best of both worlds. “I think we can protect the archaeology, but we also need to protect what’s above ground and that’s one of the key features of Observatory Hill, its historic buildings.”

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT BALMAIN Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 156 Darling Street, Balmain, NSW 2041 www.rfnsa.com.au/2041004 1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of M700 (4G), NR850 (5G) and NR/LTE2600 (5G) technologies at Balmain locality and surrounds. 2. The proposed works at the above site include the removal of two (2) panel antennas and the installation of two (2) panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long). This also includes the installation of two (2) remote radio units (RRUs) and the installation of associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility. 3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description. 4. 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 written submissions should be directed to Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia via email to: Nick.Beattie@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia Locked Bag 331, Brisbane QLD 4001 by 5pm on 23/09/2021.

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Aboriginal Keeping Place at Bondi Pavilion BY EVA BAXTER averley Council is investigating the feasibility of a keeping place for local Aboriginal artefacts at the Bondi Pavilion. Aboriginal Greens councillor Dominic WY Kanak put the motion to Council last month. A spokesperson for the Council said the keeping place will celebrate aspects of ancient and modern Aboriginal culture, heritage and cultural artefacts specific to the Bondi and Eastern Suburbs area, such as Bondi points, a type of distinctive stone tool or blade. Given the harsh climatic conditions of the Pavilion, Council officers are currently consulting with the museums and galleries sector to determine the requirements for physical display.

It needs to recognise First Nations connection If it is not feasible to physically house and display Bondi points and other relevant artefacts at Bondi Pavilion, those artefacts will be displayed and explained through the Bondi Story Room. The Bondi Story Room is an interactive digital exhibition designed to share and celebrate the many stories of the local community through a virtual experience. Waverley Council reshaped plans to restore the Bondi Pavilion in 2019, after the original plans received backlash over suspicions parts of the Pavilion would be privatised.

COMMUNITY CONTENT

Friends of Bondi Pavilion convener Eliane Morel said FOBP have always supported the recognition of Aboriginal custodians of the land and the ongoing history of Aboriginal people in Bondi. The Pavilion’s Aboriginal floor mosaic is the first example of an Aboriginal mosaic in Australia and is being retained in situ following concerns about its future during the restoration works. The artist is Yolngu Elder and Warramiri Tribal Chief Terry Yumbulul from the Northern Territory. “It should definitely remain,” Morel told City Hub, “but on top of that there needs to be recognition of the connection with this area of First Nations people.” Overall FOBP are happy with the direction that Council is taking to emphasise the Bondi Pavilion as a cultural community centre. “We want them to maintain that and keep that focus so that it doesn’t become moribund as it had previously. “It’s really important to keep putting that focus into the Pavilion once it opens and to ensure that it can keep going into the future and become a fantastic 21st century community cultural centre.” She added that the FOBP want to see a reimagined amphitheatre. The heritage council decided the amphitheatre was an intrusive object and it was removed. “We argued that it was still culturally significant because people need to be able to perform outdoors,

Bondi Pavilion upgrades were redirected in 2019 toward community focus after backlash to original plans for privatisation. Photo: Wikimedia

especially with COVID, we need to future proof so people can have outdoor performance spaces.” Construction will be complete in early 2022 with the building opening by mid 2022.

Coogee business leaning into lockdowns BY DANIEL LO SURDO Coogee-based business has used the Sydney COVID-19 lockdowns as an opportunity to further their trading. Coogee Creations Co, a locally-owned and produced handmade and natural artisan soy wax candles and bath product business, has launched a new collection last month after coming to life last year during Sydney’s first lockdown. Founder and owner of Coogee Creations Co Aimee Smith says the business was born from COVID-19. “I [was] not able to do much and was trying to keep myself busy,” Smith tells City Hub. Smith, 24, has been a Coogee resident since January 2020 after spending most of her life in Camden. Smith balances her business with her full-time work in childcare and a Bachelor’s of Education at Charles Sturt University. She chuckles when asked how she juggles each of her commitments. “With a lot of time management,” Smith says. “It keeps me busy, which is what I like to do.” While carrying out her essential work from Monday-Friday, Smith sneaks

RIGHT AT HOME

Since establishing Coogee Creations Co last year, Smith has created strong relationships with the Eastern Suburbs community. Whilst only moving to the area in 2020, Smith has networked with several businesses and to create a strong product in her local area.

The community here is very relaxed, which is a great change

Coogee Creations Co has released a new collection during lockdown. Photo: Supplied

in her studies and business in the mornings or on the weekends. Last month, she announced a new collection of wax candles on her website, despite many other small businesses either suspending or ceasing trade during the lockdown period. While her business has remained active over the past months, Smith has had to navigate multiple COVID-19 related obstacles.

“It’s been hard for advertising mainly, I had a few campaigns booked in with some locals where they would do product shoots for me so obviously we had to cancel that,” Smith says. “All the influx of orders [in lockdown] has meant that my orders don’t get shipped out as quickly being a small business, so really just getting my business out there, competing with the bigger brands has been hard.”

“My connection to the Eastern Suburbs community is still fairly new, particularly due to the lockdowns, it’s been hard to connect with others,” Smith says. “Also working in childcare within the Eastern Suburbs has allowed me to connect with families.” Smith has quickly taken to her new home. “My favourite aspect is the beach ... as well as the various restaurants and cafes that are on offer, it really does provide some unique options,” Smith says. “I feel as though the community here is very relaxed, which is a great change of scenery - [it] feels like a holiday everyday.” CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

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Residents oppose $112 million development BY KATELYN MILLIGAN he Eastern Suburbs community have voiced strong opposition against Coogee Bay Hotel’s proposed $112 million redevelopment, with locals believing that the character of the iconic beach precinct is under threat. The controversial development application details a six-storey building encompassing 60 residential apartments, with a height of 23.3 metres – almost doubling the current 12-metre limit.

The height limit among Coogee Bay is sort of sacrosanct Residents fear that the height of the mixed-use hotel and pub, residential and commercial development threatens the heart of Coogee’s community – its cherished seaside village. State Member for Coogee Marjorie O’Neill opposes overdevelopment in the seaside suburbs, maintaining that any development needs to be within planning controls. “The height limit among Coogee Bay is sort of sacrosanct,” O’Neill told City Hub.

The $112m redevelopment of Coogee Bay Hotel has raised concerns with locals. Photo: Randwick City Council

“It is what gives Coogee Bay that seaside village feel and by raising the height of the Coogee Bay Hotel it would then start a new precedent which means the rest of Coogee Bay Road would increase.”

A CONTINUAL STRUGGLE

Whilst the development application submitted to Randwick Council will maintain the heritage-listed hotel and beer garden, there are plans for a Coles supermarket, a 227-space underground carpark and an increase of the hotel’s

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT KENSINGTON

10-room capacity to 29. Coogee local Rona Wade has been fighting to resist overdevelopment in the area for over a decade. She says the community spirit has not faltered since. “There’s a very strong community view that it should remain at 12 meters so as to preserve that lovely low key, low profile aspect of the Coogee Bay that just makes it so precious,” Wade told City Hub. “There’s a groundswell of opposition.” Such opposition is evident in a

petition against the Coogee Bay Hotel development application, which has garnered over 1000 signatures in just six days. With 25 bus routes being recently removed from the south-east Sydney region, residents fear that the proposed mega carpark and residential apartments could invite further traffic to the region, causing severe congestion. Coogee resident of 20 years Siobhan Moylan says that the area is already busy and a new development proposal could be devastating for residents. “I think building up past the 12-metre limit is a hard no. Coles is a hard no. And a carpark for 230 cars is a hard no,” Moylan told City Hub. “We’ve just lost our buses and this development proposal is inviting even more cars into the area. So it’s going to make Coogee, particularly down Coogee Bay Road an absolute nightmare.” If successful, the development would block sunlight from reaching a large part of Coogee beach in the afternoon. It would further obstruct the surrounding residential dwelling’s scenic foreshore views of Dolphin Point and Wedding Cake Island.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT SYDNEY

Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 56 Anzac Parade, Kensington NSW 2033 www.rfnsa.com.au/2033003

Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 61 Phillip Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 www.rfnsa.com.au/2000444

1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of NR850 (5G) and NR/LTE2600 technologies at Kensington locality and surrounds. 2. The proposed upgrade comprises of the reconfiguration and relocation of three (3) panel antennas and reconfiguration of three (3) panel antennas and the relocation of three (3) 5G panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long). The proposal also includes the installation of nine (9) remote radio units RRUs and the installation of associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment outdoor unit located on the building rooftop. 3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description. 4. 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 written submissions should be directed to Brenda Perez-Torres, Aurecon Australasia via email to: Brenda.perez-torres@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Brenda Pere-Torres, Aurecon Australasia Aurecon Centre PO Box 23061 Docklands VIC 8012 by 5pm on 23/09/2021.

1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of M700 (4G), NR850 (5G), DSS2600 (5G) and NR2600 (5G) technologies at Sydney locality and surrounds. 2. The proposed upgrade comprises of the removal of six (6) panel antennas, the reconfiguration of six (6) panel antennas and the installation of six (6) panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long). The proposal also includes the removal of six (6) remote radio units (RRUs) and the installation of three (3) RRUs and associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility. 3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description. 4. 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 written submissions should be directed to Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia via email to: Nick.Beattie@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia Locked Bag 331, Brisbane QLD 4001 by 5pm on 23/09/2021.

CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

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Students making a difference T

BY DANIEL LO SURDO wo Eastern Suburbs locals are beginning another ambitious campaign to raise funds and awareness for disadvantaged children in Timor Leste. Alessandro Piovano and Adam Hegedus, two 23-year-old students from Waverley, will take on the 104-kilometre track from Apollo Bay to the Twelve Apostles in Victoria to raise $30,000 to fund the construction of a new preschool in a remote community in Timor Leste. Despite the duo’s plans to walk nonstop for more than 35 hours, Piovano is looking forward to the challenge. “We’re prepared and excited for our Great Ocean Walk,” Piovano told City Hub. “We’ve spent a few days plotting our route and acquainting ourselves with the terrain, so we’re ready to go. “Though we feel physically ready, if our last trek taught us anything, it’s that mental preparations are the most important [factor] going into something like this.” The pair’s newest challenge comes after five years of different efforts to provide educational relief to the children of Timor Leste. Alessandro Piovano (left) and Adam Hegedus (right) will begin their new fundraising campaign on Thursday. Photo: Supplied Instead of attending schoolies week like most 18-year-olds at the end of PROPOSAL TOreopening UPGRADEforOPTUS set up four preschools to offer relief from give each beneficiary the tools and skills conduct a safe people their secondary studies, Piovano and MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G living in Victoria. poverty and generational disadvantage needed to begin primary school and ready AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS Hegedus opted to embark instead on an through preschool education. themselves for school. As part of the Premier’s plans, in800-kilometre Bondi Beach PROPOSALtrek TOfrom UPGRADE OPTUSto ANDPiovano VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE Existing Facility (Level 10), in 1-19 Oxford Street, Rooftop Facility, Lakes Business Park, Building 2, saw it as an important service to In Ermera, a municipality the westperson schooling will resume, with the Byron Bay; a campaign the Australian Surry Hills NSW 2010 2-26 Lord Street, Botany NSW 2019 STATIONupWITH 5G AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS children suffering from inequity. central region of Timor-Leste, it’s been Government finalising plans for a Term Optus Ref: S0209, www.rfnsa.com.au/2010024 Optus Ref: S0490, www.rfnsa.com.au/2019001 east coast that raised $20,000 along Rooftop Facility, 209-211 Harris Street, Pyrmont NSW 2009 proposed that there are still 28 preschools Four return. The strategy involve the “Learning and literacy empower children to 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G 3. The proposed facility consists of the will the way. addition of new 5G Optus Vodafone Ref: S0969, www.rfnsa.com.au/2009003 needed to prepare the children from each installation of ventilators in classrooms equipment and associated works as follows: transform their lives,” Piovano said. equipment and associated works as follows: 1. The proposed consists of the addition new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: Piovano and facility Hegedus first wereofinspired • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m in length) village for primary school. with poor airflow and an increased • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.59m long) • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m long) “It opens up new pathways for further to walk while on their first trip to Timor• Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.68m emphasis outdoor learning • New ancillary on equipment including remote radio units, cabling • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.75m long) education as well as better jobs and Timor-Leste has recorded increases in long) with three new 4G panel antennas (1.5m long) Leste, where they learned that five-yearand antenna mounts where natural ventilation environments, • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.68m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (2.1m long) education levels throughout the 21st • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling training. olds• inReplacement the country’s • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within of three (3)Ermera existing 4GDistrict panel antennas (2.68m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (1.83m long) greatly decreases the risk of infection. century, with mounts the net enrolment rate and antenna were• forced to equipment walk upincluding to five kilometres the equipment shelter New ancillary remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within growing 16 per cent in the last five years, For Piovano and Hegedus, a reopening a day attend the nearest preschool. • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in • to Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within theequipment Everyshelter child deserves the the equipment shelter; the antennas are at level 10 plant room while gender disparity in classrooms has of Victoria would mean they can begin a the overall scale of the facility 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 “We• continue to be motivated by chance to learn and create a been significantly reduced. Challenges trek now suspended for many months. • Optus regards the proposed installation as Exempt Development accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Rooftop Facility, 48 Chippen Street, Chippendale NSW 2008 the dedication of these Timorese within the nation’s education sector in accordance with State Environmental Planning Determination 2018 based on the description above Optus Vodafone Ref: S2145, www.rfnsa.com.au/2008003 Despite adverse conditions, the pairPolicy better future youngsters,” Piovano (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above still remain, with dropout and repetition 2. The proposed facility consistssaid. of the addition of new 5G equipment and associated works as follows: Existing Monopole, 19 Harris Street, have remained positive throughout the • Installation of three five (3) new 5G panel (0.75m long) Pyrmont rates remaining high.NSW 2009 Rooftoplockdown Facility, 65-71 Belmore Road, “As we clock over years ofantennas working extended and are excited to “Every child deserves the chance to learn Optus Ref: S5576, www.rfnsa.com.au/2009001 • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (1.35m long) Randwick NSW 2031 in Timor-Leste, our decision to walk finally start their journey. andwithcreate better future.” • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.69m long) three newa 4G panel antennas (2.1m long) Optus Ref: S0041, www.rfnsa.com.au/2031005 2. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G again is now very much motivated by During the lockdown, Piovano and IN LIMBO equipment and associated works as follows: • Replacement of three (3) existing 4G panel antennas (2.68m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (1.5m long)that Educating The Future estimates 4. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G the success of our work and its proven, Hegedus welcomed ten new • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.59m long) • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mounts Piovano and Hegedus planned to begin equipment andhave associated works as follows: throughout its existence it has provided ongoing effectiveness.” • trek Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m long) • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipment shelter volunteers to Educating The Future, their on the 12th of August. As • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.59m long) access for over 350 preschool children to • Installation of one (1) new 4G panel antenna (2.69 m long) • The antennas are at rooftop and there is a slight the overall scale of the facility who will each join their Fundraising, Hegedus recognised thelevelimportance of increase inquality of early September, the pair haven’t • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.81m long) education. • Replacement of two (2) existing 4G panel antennas (2.53m long) Facility, 134-138 William Street, Wooloomooloo NSW 2011 Communications, Timor-Leste Programs offering educationRooftop in rural areas of the • Provision for three (3) future panel antennas (up to 1.5m long) yet departed due to unforeseen with two new 4G panel antennas (2.69m long) Throughout their work, the two co-founders Optus Vodafone Ref: S8901, www.rfnsa.com.au/2011002 • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and Partnerships teams. nation. circumstances of COVID-19 lockdowns in • Provision for three (3) future panel antennas (up to 1.5m long) 3. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new 5G equipment have and associated follows: built works and asmanaged relationships with and antenna mounts Victoria. They are committed to begin the • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling They have also used their time at home “Giving children an(3)equal • Installation of three new 5G opportunity panel antennas (0.75m long) government and non-government bodies • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within and antenna trek once it ismounts safe to do so, however are • Installation of threethe (3) new 5G panel antennas (1.35m long) to ensure that each preschool is sustained, to reflect onshelter their five years of service, to learn provides foundations the equipment Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within not • sure of when that may be. • Replacement of three (3)improve existing 4G panel antennas (2.53m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (1.83m long) including their visit to the Australian to overcome poverty, their • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in the equipment shelter with teacher support and maintenance a • Replacementand of three (3) existing panel antennas (2.53m long) with three new 4G panel antennas (2.78m long) the overall scale of the facility Victoria Premier Dan Andrews Embassy in Timor-Leste in 2019. communities quality of4Glife,” • The antennas are at rooftop level and there is a slight increase in high priority • New ancillary equipment including remote radio units, cabling and antenna mountsfor both parties. the overall scale of the facility • Optus regards the proposed installation as Exempt Development announced in early September plans Piovano and Hegedus led a team that Hegedus said. • Reconfiguration of existing equipment on the facility and within the equipmentand shelterHegedus opted to target Piovano • Optus regards the proposed installation as a low-impact facility in in accordance with State Environmental Planning Policy to move to a vaccinated economy after shared with the Embassy Educating The 4. Optus and Vodafone regard the proposed installations as Exempt Development in accordance with State Planning Policy preschool education toEnvironmental provide an avenue accordance with the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above new cases continue to rise in the state. Future’s plans for a second preschool. (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above Determination 2018 based on the description above TRANSFORMING LIVES of support prior to student’s primary Under the plans, Victorians who have Now with plans to build a fourth, 5. Notification is being first undertaken in accordance effort with Section 7 of Industry Phone Basewhich Station have Deployment 5. Notification is being undertaken in accordance with Section 7 of Industry Code C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment. Inspired by their fundraising andCode highC564:2020 schoolMobile education, not received a COVID-19 vaccination Educating The Future hold ambitions 6. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the 6. Members of the public may obtain further information on the proposed work, and we invite you to provide written comments about the together, Piovano and Hegedus co-founded the support and financial backing of the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Optus’ representative c/- James McIver, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: will proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to Optus’ representative c/- James McIver, Catalyst ONE Pty Ltd; phone: be excluded from sporting matches, to diversify and expand their impact in their02own Educating The Future government. TheNSW co-founders contend 4022non-profit 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest 1585 by 26 February 2021. restaurants, travelling and cinemas, to Timor-Leste. 02 4022 9533; email: consultation@catalystone.com.au and post: PO Box 1119, Crows Nest NSW 1585 by 26 February 2021. the next year and has since continued to that the implementation of preschools will CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

HubNEWS

Community groups disagree over ferry link BY SASHA FOOT he NSW government plans to create a ferry link between La Perouse and Kurnell to connect the northern headland of Botany Bay to the southern headland. The wharf is projected to be 180 metres long and is expected to accommodate 500 people per ferry ride. The Kurnell area, especially Kamay Botany Bay National Park, holds cultural significance to Aboriginal people at La Perouse.

The La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council supports the Kamay Ferry Wharves project. Photo: Wikimedia

 A lot of people really care Aboriginal people have inhabited the La Perouse area for thousands of years. When the British settled at Botany Bay in 1788 around 1500 Aboriginal people were estimated to have lived between Broken Bay and Botany Bay. The La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council supports the Kamay Ferry Wharves project. CEO of La Perouse Aboriginal Land Council Chris Ingrey told City Hub the project will provide cultural and economic benefits for the La Perouse Aboriginal community.

“The proposed ferry service will provide a crucial transport link for Aboriginal people at La Perouse to Kurnell and ensure our people have access to Country and stay physically connected to their traditional lands,” he said.

MEGASTRUCTURE MISERY

Save Yarra Bay Alliance was formed in 2018 to fight the development of a mega cruise ship terminal in Yarra Bay. Save Yarra Bay is concerned that the projects are interrelated, and the proposed wharf ‘megastructure’ will

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT CAMPERDOWN Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at Sydney University, Carslaw Building, Eastern Avenue, Camperdown NSW 2050 www.rfnsa.com.au/2006001 1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of M700 (4G), NR850 (5G) and DSS2600 (5G) technologies at Camperdown locality and surrounds. 2. The proposed upgrade comprises of the removal of two (2) panel antennas, the reconfiguration of two (2) panel antennas, and the installation of two (2) panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long). The proposal also includes the removal of two (2) remote radio units (RRUs) with the installation of two (2) RRUs and the installation of associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility. 3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as Exempt development under Schedule 3A of the State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the local heritage status of the building. 4. 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 written submissions should be directed to Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia via email to: Nick.Beattie@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia Locked Bag 331, Brisbane QLD 4001 by 5pm on 23/09/2021. 16

CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

provide a steppingstone for the future cruise ship industry. Spokesperson for Save Yarra Bay Maria Poulos commented on the response from La Perouse Local Aboriginal Land Council. “[Save Yarra Bay] understands there are some commercial arrangements there, but a lot of the Indigenous community do not support it,” she told City Hub. She said traffic density issues, alongside environmental and recreational impacts are concerning residents.

“There are a lot of people that really care about protecting the bay and its current uses,” she said. Save Yarra Bay has been encouraging the community to make submissions, especially since the current lockdown has meant protesting is not possible. “The only way we have to raise our objections now is the submission process,” Poulos said. Randwick Council is submitting their opposition to the project on environmental, cultural and traffic grounds.

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT SYDNEY Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 50 Pitt Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 www.rfnsa.com.au/2000262 1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of M700 (4G), DSS2600 (5G), NR850 (5G) and NR26000 (5G) technologies at Sydney locality and surrounds. 2. The proposed works at the above site include the removal of four (4) panel antennas, the reconfiguration of four (4) panel antennas and the installation of four (4) panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long). The removal of four (4) remote radio units (RRUs) with the installation of two (2) RRUs and the installation of associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility. 3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-Impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description. 4. 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 written submissions should be directed to Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia via email to: Nick.Beattie@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Nick Beattie, Aurecon Australasia Locked Bag 331, Brisbane QLD 4001 by 5pm on 23/09/2021.

The Good Neighbour Project Supporting responsible cat ownership Protecting wildlife and feline welfare Keeping your cat happy and healthy

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

Rehoming Organisation Number R251000224 CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

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Century-old Vaucluse mansion demolished BY ASTON BROWN culturally significant Vaucluse mansion has been demolished, prompting community backlash. Until recently, a Mediterranean-style 1920s mansion sat on the 1700 square metre block on Vaucluse Road, originally built for the Arnott biscuit family. Eastern Suburbs resident Anna Lynch says that more should be done to preserve old buildings in the area. “Mistakes are being made by Council … that’s how we end up losing a beautiful building like that,” Lynch told City Hub. “It’s just disappointing that we are losing these beautiful buildings. It’s happening too often.” A new 16-room, three-storey mansion is planned for the site that boasts stunning harbour views. The property was sold in 2013 for $15 million to King Fai Chu, a director of Great Wall International, and Xiaoyi Zhu. Zhu owns the recently built house directly across the road. “They are pulling down buildings of character and putting up buildings that don’t have any,” Lynch said.

A mansion in Vaucluse has been demolished, sparking outrage in the community. Photo: Home Hound

The DA for the redevelopment of the site was due to expire 5 years after its approval in 2015 by Council. This period was extended from 5 to 7 years as part of the NSW Government’s COVID-19 response measures.

COUNCIL DISILLUSIONMENT

An Interim Heritage Order (IHO) was established in 2019 and extended into 2021 to save the property. Woollahra Council endorsed a proposal to heritage list the property and save it from demolition.

However, the owners challenged the IHO in the Land and Environment Court and in May 2021 the decision to revoke the IHO was announced.

If you have a piece of architectural history ... it should be preserved Council felt let down by the demolition. “Having resolved to progress a planning proposal to heritage list the building, Council is disappointed with this outcome

which follows 18 months of work to protect the building,” a Woollahra Council spokesperson told City Hub. Double Bay resident Tomos Bielik is saddened by the news. “It’s upsetting as a local to know that beautiful buildings on the harbour are disappearing … to be replaced by some new-age concrete bunker,” Bielik told City Hub. “Whatever it’s going to be, it’s not going to be as pretty as the one that has been demolished. “I was in demolition myself for a few years … I’ve seen things … I don’t know how things get approvals. “It’s a shame, if you have a piece of architectural history in Australia, it should be preserved.” Council hopes amendments to State law will stop demolitions happening in the future. “There is currently a review of the NSW Heritage Act underway. This outcome should be used as an opportunity to review the IHO process,” a Council spokesperson said. “Council staff have provided feedback as part of the review process.”

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT SURRY HILLS

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION LOCATED AT BONDI JUNCTION

Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 322 Bourke Street Surry Hills NSW 2010 (CP/-/SP30206) www.rfnsa.com.au/2010006

Telstra plans to upgrade an existing telecommunications facility located at 1 Newland Street, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 www.rfnsa.com.au/2022002

1. Telstra are currently upgrading existing mobile network facilities to allow for the introduction of 5G to Telstra’s network. As part of this network upgrade, Telstra proposes the installation of NR850(5G) and NR/LTE2600 technologies at Bondi Junction locality and surrounds 2. The proposed upgrade comprises of the removal of five (5) existing panel antennas, and the installation of three (3) panel antennas (each no more than 2.8m long). The proposal also includes the removal of four (4) existing remote radio units (RRUs) with the installation of two (2) RRUs and the installation of associated ancillary equipment. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility. All internal equipment will be housed within the existing equipment shelter located at the base of the facility 3. Telstra regards the proposed installation as a Low-impact Facility under the Telecommunications (Low-impact Facilities) Determination 2018 based on the above description 4. 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 written submissions should be directed to Brenda Perez-Torres, Aurecon Australasia via email to: Brenda.perez-torres@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Brenda Pere-Torres, Aurecon Australasia Aurecon Centre PO Box 23061 Docklands VIC 8012 by 5pm on 23/09/2021.

2. Telstra regards the proposed installation as Exempt Development under Schedule 3A of the State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the above description. 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 written submissions should be directed to Max Peel, Aurecon Australasia via email to: max.peel@aurecongroup.com or via post to: Max Peel, Aurecon Pty Ltd, Locked Bag 331, Brisbane QLD 4001 by COB 23 September 2021. 18

CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

SPOTLIGHT ON LADIES AT QUEER SCREEN FESTIVAL 2021 City Hub speaks with Queer Screen Film Festival Director Lisa Rose about the festival’s 9th year & the slate of films for queer women. BY JESSI LEWIS ith Sydney in lockdown than what better time is there than now to delve head first into this year’s Queer Screen Film Festival. Now in its 9th year, this year’s program presents some 40 films from 17 countries, in 18 different spoken languages, and with no less than 22 Australian premieres. As Festival Director Lisa Rose explains, “although this is the third time we have offered something online and Australia wide, it is actually our first ever completely online festival, which is exciting because it’s something different to do. “Everyone in our community has been impacted by the pandemic in some way and we are delighted to create an online festival to help us through these times... People are really hanging out to watch something new and queer and have that experience of watching something together virtually.” We asked Rose to guide us through some of the festival’s top lesbian films, because, as Rose tells us, “Gay men have always had more films that are made about gay men than there are films made about queer women. But now there is just as much stuff, in this festival at least, about queer women.” “Tove is one of my easy highlights. It’s about this wonderful artist who created the cartoon called Moomin which started as a comic in

Signature Move Fanny

Queer Screen Film Fest Director Lisa Rose. Photo: Ann-Marie Calilhanna

being tinged with ‘shades of Armistead Maupin’ this film is another highlight according to Rose. “This one has a number of different story lines. One of them is about a lesbian couple, and one of the women is played by Erin Daniels who people may know from the L World. It’s about her fear of commitment and the writer’s block she has. It’s about people growing up, impending parenthood. It’s quite relatable.” This year’s Queer Screen Film Festival will also feature five encores screenings of some of the festival’s most loved past feature films. “These are Bea

utif

ul D

ream

comedy about Emily Dickinson. That’s just some of them, there are a heap of other ones as well. “I also really love a fantastic film called Fanny: The Right To Rock which is a documentary about an allfemale Filipina American rock band who were basically written out of rock history in the 1970s. They were the first all-female rock band; they paved the way for all these other bands to come through but never got any of the credit they deserve.” Not the only documentary showing as part of this years Queer Screen Festival - keep an eye out for AIDS Diva: The Legend Of Connie Norma, a film which details the story of self-proclaimed AIDS diva and trans trailblazer Connie Norman who lived and died fighting for the right to be seen and heard. Expanding our focus a little further, Rose says another film from this year’s program which is not to be missed is Beyto - a critically acclaimed drama from Switzerland exploring the clash between queer and traditional immigrant cultures. “It has been playing every queer film festival across the world in the last six months or so. It’s a fantastic film about a young Turkish immigrant who meets a local Swiss guy, they fall in love and it’s about what happens when his family finds out. It’s thought provoking and beautifully performed,” Rose explains. In addition to the on-demand program, Queer Screen has a number of live free events scheduled including filmmaker Q&As and panels; the Halfway Hangout where people can meet virtually to chat about the films and short film competition, Queer Screen Pitch Off. “I always encourage people to step outside the box and watch something that would not normally want to watch,” Rose adds. “That’s part of the beauty of a film festival, you might watch four or five films, love three of them, like one of them and really hate the other one. It’s about immersing yourself in it, and getting to see different experiences, that’s what I want people to do with this year’s program.” Aids

a paper, then became an actual cartoon made into a television show then into a movie,” Rose explains. “It’s about her life as a bisexual woman and her experience as an artist and a number of romances she has throughout the film. It’s a really wonderful European biopic that starts in the late 40s and moves through about 15 years of her life.” Amy Glazer’s warm-hearted Beautiful Dreamer, from San Francisco is a comedy-drama about love, friendship, and building your ‘logical’ family. Billed as

Diva Beyto

films people really connected with in the past,” Rose explains. “We have a fantastic multicultural lesbian romcom called Signature Move which we played at our 2018 festival. We have Wild Nights With Emily which we bought back from 2019, which is an absurd

The 9th Queer Screen Film Fest will be hitting smaller screens from September 16-26. For more info head to www.queerscreen.org.au CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

COFFIN ED’S NAKED CITY

uring the pandemic and various lockdowns there’s no doubt the role of the media is greatly amplified. It provides vital information, often comfort and reassurance and a diversion from the stark realities of the health and economic climates. One section of the media often overlooked during the current restrictions is community radio. Surveys have indicated that well over five million Australians tune in to some 450 odd not-for-profit, community owned and operated radio services throughout the country each week. They not only provide music and commentary but a direct connection with a specific listenership. In Sydney we are well blessed with a wide variety of community broadcasters from the smaller suburban operators to the larger Sydney wide stations like Koori Radio and FBi. All can be accessed on the internet these days, which means their audience is potentially worldwide. When it comes to ‘community’ it’s often argued that some stations offer greater access and a more open relationship with their listeners than others. A well known broadcaster once instructed its presenters not to use the word ‘community’ on air, as they considered it ‘daggy’, seeing themselves more as a kind of defacto Triple J. One Sydney station that has had no problem embracing the community ethic is Eastside Radio, broadcasting out of its Paddington studios and now included on the digital radio network. I recently spoke with station director Tony Smythe to find out how Eastside was faring during the current malaise. From a practical level Tony noted, “We’re very lucky to still be able to operate and be on the air while so many of our musician friends are out of work or all the venues,

RADIO LOCKDOWN

Like many at the forefront of community radio, Tony’s has been a long term commitment, from volunteering at 2RRR in 2002 to his appointment as station administrator at Eastside in 2007. In 2008 he was appointed Station Manager and in 2015 as Managing Director. That longevity is definitely fired by a passionate dedication to the cause, as he enthuses: Eastside Radio

galleries, theatres and museums are currently closed. To ensure we remain open during COVID all staff are working from home and only presenters now come into the station, not crossing paths by using alternative studios. Some presenters are also recording from home.” Tony also emphasised the morale boosting impact that stations like Eastside can deliver. “Eastside Radio is the crucial companion to everyone stuck at home in lockdown. It’s a connection to the world outside your 5km isolation, whilst the music, art and talks allow our listeners to journey beyond their physical limitation to the theatre of their mind.” Many community stations rely heavily on sponsorship for financial survival and the pandemic has seen much of this dry up. Tony explained how Eastside was surviving. “We have been somewhat prepared for such a circumstance where one of our revenue streams falls off

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS AND VODAFONE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION WITH 5G AT Rooftop Facility, 49 Bennett Street, Bondi NSW 2026 Optus Vodafone Ref: S2454 / JS3937, www.rfnsa.com.au/2026027 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 three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.75m long) • Installation of three (3) new 5G panel antennas (0.78m long) • Installation of three (3) new 4G panel antennas (2.69m long) • Provision for three (3) future panel antennas (up to 0.6m long) • Provision for three (3) future panel antennas (up to 1.5m 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 proposed antennas will be attached to the lift motor room and will extend above the height of the building. There will be a slight increase in height and scale of the facility 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 24 September 2021. 20

CITY HUB SEPTEMBER 2021

a cliff. The reduction in sponsorship has been offset by the support of our listeners as well as generous donors and of course our annual fundraisers. The Government has also been instrumental in helping many NFP’s survive thanks to JobSaver and relevant grants on offer.”

“Eastside Radio is there to give a voice to those underrepresented by commercial media. We pay particular focus to specialist music genres you won’t hear anywhere... We’re also the only station to devote five mornings a week to the arts with our arts programs. All of our presenters are fountains of knowledge with regard to their specialist fields... Our audience has grown to love learning when listening to Eastside Radio.” Despite the current struggle Tony sees a positive future for Eastside. Their inclusion on the digital network has not only expanded their listenership but met with a positive response from their established audience who love the digital sound, free of any previous interference. He concludes: “With the support of our listeners we’ll continue to grow and create engaging content across a multitude of digital platforms available anywhere in the world. If you’d like to make a difference to your community, become a Supporter of Eastside Radio at support.eastsidefm. org or you can make a tax deductible donation online at eastsidefm.org/donations.”

PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE OPTUS MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT Gladesville Bridge, Victoria Road, Drummoyne NSW 2047 RFNSA reference: 2111012 1. The proposed facility consists of the addition of new equipment and associated works as follows: Removal of six (6) existing ancillary Radio Remote Units and installation of ten (10) new ancillary Radio Remote Units to the existing facility Add ancillary items including combiners and in shelter works 2. Optus regards the proposed installation as a Maintenance Activity in accordance with the Telecommunications Act 1997 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 5pm on September 24th, 2021.

HubARTS

RIDE THE EAGLE: The surprise dramedy of the year (See p. 23)

COVID-19 ARTS FUNDING LEAVES SMALLER THEATRE COMPANIES IN THE DUST A BY TESSA PELLE s large-scale music, dance and theatre productions hurry to claim a $75 million COVID-19 relief fund, smaller entertainment companies are left grasping at straws for support. Almost half of the stimulus has been allocated within the first five weeks since Create NSW launched its crisis funding for non-for-profit and commercial performing arts organisations. Camilla Turnbull is the Co-Founder and Director of the independent theatre production company Ratcatch Theatre. They say its “disheartening” to see smaller organisations overlooked for funding. “The larger organisations often have a lot more resources to dedicate to seeking funding, so it’s not surprising in a way. Whereas for smaller organisations, it is essentially a full-time

job, going out there and applying for funding,” Camilla says. Currently, Ratcatch Theatre has yet to gain access to any funds and are still in the application process. “The marketplace, when it comes to applying for art grants, is super competitive, which can be really difficult, particularly when there is a certain amount of allocated funds. We’re seeing a lot of projects in the independent sector that we really love get funded, but we’re also seeing a lot of organisations really struggling to meet the criteria for funding,” Camilla says. Smaller arts bodies are finding it harder and harder to stay afloat. However, despite being consistently disregarded, Camilla recognises the universal problem that surrounds equal access to funds. “At the same time, I guess I couldn’t

really say it’s the fault of these larger organisations that do have the resources. I mean it’s a systemic issue with funding that’s finite. This is the culmination of a situation that’s been brewing for years when it comes to arts funding, and we’re really feeling the pinch now during lockdown when we cannot operate within our own industry.” Ratcatch Theatre was lucky enough to put on a show earlier this year, The Linden Solution, and made profits for their team. However, the company itself doesn’t make any money. “Both myself and Alexander [the other Co-Founder of Ratcatch], we both work adjacent to the arts industry, so we’ve been able to continue with personal

employment, but then a lot of our work is funded by that personal employment as well,” Camilla says. Camilla is uncertain as to what the future of Ratcatch Theatre and other independent production companies looks like. “We’re looking towards the future with a bunch of shows that might not get programmed or reprogrammed. It looks quite bleak,” Camilla says. “Currently, when it comes to producing work for performance and stage, everything is ground to a halt as we wait for the industry to open up again. We’re desperately seeking the resources to be able to continue producing work in a more sustainable way.”

GALERIE POMPOM’S LATEST EXHIBITION SEEN THROUGH A LOOKING GLASS BY TESSA PELLE alerie pompom will present the talent of four emerging Sydney based artists in its newest exhibition, Confabulations. Despite Sydney’s ongoing lockdown, art enthusiasts can still view the exhibition through the gallery’s window facing Abercrombie Street in Chippendale. Curator Felipe Olivares is happy the exhibition was still able to go ahead despite COVID-19 restrictions. “Although I was disappointed when I realised Confabulations would be rolling out with closed doors, there were still alternatives for us to exhibit. Luckily, Galerie pompom has a massive window facing Abercombie street, which provides a great viewing point as people can see the entire show by peeping through the glass,” he says. The exhibition explores escapism and themes such as the grief and longing

associated with cultural displacement. Felipe says his curatorial idea was to spotlight artists whose work embodies the reclaiming of personal narratives. “I guess the main inspiration behind the exhibition was the frustration with the uncertainty of the presents times, and in particular, the impossibility to connect or reconnect with specific sites, but sites understood in a broader sense, not just geographical places, but states of mind, socially-construct ideas or concepts altogether,” Felipe says. The artists include Camille Gillyboeuf, Alex Karaconji, Monica Renaud and Monica Rani Rudhar. Confabulations showcases work across a variety of diverse mediums such as oil painting and animation. “We have a balanced presentation of traditional mediums, including ceramics with Monica Rani Rudhar, photographic methodologies with

Monica Renaud, painting and drawing with Alex Karaconji and soft sculpture/ installation with Camille Gillyboeuf. It was very significant for me to create this balance,” Felipe says. The exhibition’s themes are timely given Sydney’s never-ending lockdown. The artist’s diverse works convey ideas of impermanence and ambiguity. “I borrow and bastardise the term Confabulations from the neuroscience field to describe something we all experience daily, consciously or unconsciously, and even more during the lockdown.” Felipe recognises the importance of art in uncertain times. “I believe in art’s ability to offer an intellectual escape from reality, but I also acknowledge its capacity to provide

comfort and healing. It can be challenging and confronting,” Felipe says. “Art is a repository for more complex ways of feeling and thinking… I feel very proud as an emerging curator to have been able to put up an art exhibition with a city in lockdown.”

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HubARTS promise of what is to come in the full album release. Drapht’s friends from Drop Shot Media; “went full guerrilla mode,” directing original music videos for each single. As Drapht explained to City Hub, he couldn’t be surrounded by a better group of friends right now. “A bunch of friends coming together, having a bit of fun, and shooting while we are at it. I’m pretty fortunate to have these guys apart of it, they are absolutely killing it” Drapht will be touring through WA from October and says he can’t wait to hit the East Coast. “I want to get back over to the east as soon as possible and play as many shows as possible.” “I can’t wait to just get onto the next thing, we have got a few other things on the cards, can’t say too much yet, but we have bunch of stuff planned and there will be a lot going on in the next year.”

RAPPER DRAPHT TO REDISCOVER HIS PASSION BY ASTON BROWN nfamous Perth based rapper Drapht is back with a brand-new album, Shadows And Shinings, dropping on September 10. With this new album Drapht returns to his roots, re-discovering his undying passion for rap in collaboration with some of his closest mates. In a conversation with City Hub, Drapht explained how this album reflects on the past while laying the groundwork for the future. “For the most part the album is just a bunch of friends who I have accumulated and had a relationship over the last 20 years, I just wanted to do an album that was really personal for me and include people that I really appreciate… I’m really proud of this one” During our conversation, Drapht spoke of the decade long journey he’s been on

that has led him to this latest release. “It feels like this album follows on from my 2011 release… after The Life Of Riley I decided to take some time away from music, I didn’t really feel inspired to continue to write and release in the way that I was.” Since The Life Of Riley Drapht admits he has struggled with his music. A decade later, Drapht is finally proud to say he has found himself again in the making of the album. “I’ve re-discovered my passion with this record, and I’m not sure why, but it seemed to come back around, and maybe that was just because I was writing with friends again.” The album will follow Drapht’s latest singles; Hollywood Hills, Problem Here (feat. Complete & Eli Greeneyes) and Shadow On My Walls that each show

THE DEMISE OF LIVE MUSIC: TWO ICONIC VENUES TO BE DEMOLISHED BY KATELYN MILLIGAN

ome have dubbed it the end of an era, with two of Sydney’s live music institutions set to be demolished. A recent development proposal for Coogee Bay Hotel has called into question the future of its live music venue Selina’s. This announcement comes just months after the revelation that Frankie’s Pizza By The Slice will be bulldozed to make way for the new Metro West line station at Hunter Street. Both venues may soon become a distant memory, leaving behind a legacy as two of Sydney’s most iconic rock venues. Frankie’s Pizza By The Slice has established itself as a go-to in Sydney’s rock scene, with its dive-bar aesthetic and hard-core rock gigs fostering a culture fit for rock ‘n’ roll purists. Loyal Frankie’s fan and local musician Chloe from Chloe Kay And The Crusades was left devastated by the news that Frankie’s is set to close in the coming years. “Frankie’s was like the one little piece of rock and roll heaven that we had in 22

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Sydney. It’s the one little haven that people had to go out to celebrate that kind of music,” Chloe said. “The whole energy in there that was just one of a kind, it really was like something that you don’t really experience often, especially in Sydney. There’s just nowhere else like it here. It’s definitely a huge loss.” It’s hoped that Frankie’s will be relocated amidst claims from Transport Minister Andrew Constance that the government will assist Frankie’s in

finding a new location. The same cannot be said for Selina’s, as owner of Coogee Bay Hotel Christopher Cheung said there’s no room for Selina’s moving forward. Between the late 70s to 90s, Selina’s was a mecca for live music, hosting the likes of Nirvana, Cold Chisel, INXS and David Bowie. In February 1992 alone, the venue saw over one million people walk through its doors. The fate of Selina’s is now resting in

the hands of Randwick City Council as to whether the $112 million Coogee Bay Hotel development will be approved. If approved, the popular gig venue will be demolished to make room for a six-storey residential building with 60 residential apartments, a new supermarket, underground carpark and 29 hotel rooms. Developers, lockout laws and now lockdown have been attributed to the demise of many Sydney music venues. Chloe says she feels for the up-andcoming artists who will be some of the ones most affected by the shrinking music industry. “Everything’s changed, it’s just no longer what it used to be in the past six years, I think just in general. There have been so many blows for musicians in Sydney. It’s just depressing. “I do feel for those young people who will never get the opportunity to experience the industry and the scene that we got to experience even a few years ago. It’s just not the same now and that really breaks my heart for a lot of younger musicians.”

HubARTS

‘RIDE THE EAGLE’ IS THE PERFECT COMEDIC ESCAPE BY MARK MORELLINI his is the surprise dramedy of the year and the most suitable film to take our minds away from these dark times during COVID-19, even if only for 90 minutes. America’s top comedian Jake Johnson produced, co-wrote and stars in what can best be described as humorous and pleasurable viewing. Johnson portrays a man who has received the news that his estranged mother has died and left him her luxury cabin. But it’s a conditional inheritance, meaning he will only receive the property if he manages to successfully complete a list of tasks she has allocated.

This sets the pace for many hilarious situations and along the way, with the aid of eccentric characters he meets, reconnects socially and acquires a newfound love for his deceased mother. Susan Sarandon is enchanting as the mother only seen on video as she delivers his task details recorded prior to her passing. Not for mainstream audiences this small and quirky independent film explores grief, regrets, the ‘what could have been’, the complication of relationships and leaves audiences with one relatable message; to love and forgive as life is too short. WWW

QUEER HORROR FLICK ‘DEATH DROP GORGEOUS’ HAS IT ALL BY MARK MORELLINI onster Makeup, LLC is an independent entertainment company based out of Providence, Rhode Island in the USA. Aside from creating music, art and scary monsters, they now also produce low budget horror films funded primarily from public donations. Their first feature Death Drop Gorgeous is a LGBTQI slasher flick and screened in over 20 film festivals during 2020 including The Wicked Queer: Boston LGBT Film Festival, The Hollywood HorrorFest and the Salem Horror Festival, collecting several awards along the way. ‘Vampire Killer Wreaks Havoc!’ is the headline in all the local news programs as a serial killer is on the rampage violently murdering gay men and draining their bodies of blood. The question on everybody’s mind, what is this psycho doing with the blood? Two detectives are investigating the case and announce, “Looks like we got ourselves a serial fag killing vampire!” The suspect may be working at a local drag club. Is it the drag queen who is disenchanted with her treatment at the club? Or

perhaps the owner, a devious and poor excuse of a human being? There are many possibilities and as all the characters and scenarios are introduced it becomes a wildly fun game for audiences in trying to solve the puzzle of whodunnit? This queer horror flick has it all! Gay audiences should not only adore the deliciously naughty and flamboyant drag queens wearing the traditional

colourful frocks, wigs and heavy makeup, but may also be aroused by the semi-clad young male go-go dancers and the super handsome cast headed predominantly by pretty boyz. The murder scenes are unbearably gruesome to watch leaving nothing to the imagination, one in particular redefining the word ‘grinder’ as a detective asks, ”Who’s shredding his

meat potatoes like that?” In between the torturous blood splattering raw violence underlying themes of relationships, racism and ageing resonate. Audiences may be disgusted as the raw and never before seen torturous acts are committed but laughter should transpire as much of the dialogue is humorously written with bitchy undertones, an example being when a drag queen is told, “If you’re going to have two faces at least make one of them pretty!” The drama, suspense and violence pick up substantially in the second act, developing into something of a psychological thriller and leading to a blood curdling finale. Targeted queer audiences should love Death Drop Gorgeous! Nothing is sacred, as glory holes, fetishes, grinder, cocaine snorting and vomit inducing violence are all referenced, but disappointingly no graphic sex is depicted! Anybody who enjoys watching drag queen flicks with ‘just an ounce of blood’ should not miss this, so open a bottle of wine, sit back and enjoy this outrageously flamboyant bloodfest! WWW

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