City News 6 March 2014

Artists boycott Biennale over asylum camps

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Natasha Stott Despoja on International Women’s Day

Sydney’s most comprehensive What’s On guide

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Our public housing failure

A life of learning

TAFE helped Andrew Grant to a new life - but its funding is at risk

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BY MICHAEL KOZIOL All levels of government, including the City of Sydney, are failing to ensure the adequate provision and maintenance of social and affordable housing, Labor councillor Linda Scott has said.

In her submission to a state parliamentary inquiry, Cr Scott calls for urgent investment in public housing capacity and maintenance.

“I have seen housing in Redfern, in Waterloo, in Miller’s Point, in Erskineville in the most terrible state of disrepair - people living in squalid conditions that you should not see in a first-world country like Australia,” she said.

In an interview, Ms Scott said she had personally witnessed hallways littered with needles, walls covered in bodily fluids, holes in windows and roofs that go unrepaired for months and mould which residents claim is making them ill.

She said the City is wealthy enough to contribute to fixing the problem, even if it remains primarily a state government issue.

“It’s not any one level of government’s responsibility, but a council like the City of Sydney should be taking a leading role,” Cr Scott said.

“We have zero funds in our budget for affordable housing.”

The Labor councillor, who has previously indicated she will make affordable housing a policy priority in the coming year, said the city’s dearth of affordable places to live means we will lose key workers like nurses and teachers.

“We risk not being able to have artists and volunteers and people on low wages living in our inner city, which will affect the diversity that I love about Sydney,” she said.

The median house price in the City of Sydney LGA is $965,000 or $630,000 for a unit. The median house price in the 2010 postcode, which takes in Darlinghurst and Surry Hills, is $1.1 million. The median price of a home for all of

Sydney is $690,000 and $492,000 for a unit, according to Australian Property Monitors data.

Cr Scott proposed at February’s ordinary council meeting to “conduct an audit of the possible policy strategies the City of Sydney could legally undertake to improve housing affordability and affordable housing stock in the local government area”, and produce a report based on that audit.

The motion also noted that the Department of Family and Community Services has declared the City of Sydney an area in “high need” of more affordable housing, and that the City did not provide a single new affordable housing unit in fiscal year 2012/13. The motion was rejected by council.

Instead, a successful motion was put by Deputy Mayor Robyn Kemmis which noted the council’s “ongoing advocacy” for the state government to provide more such housing in the City of Sydney.

Cr Scott said a council “as well off as the City of Sydney” could afford to go beyond the bread and butter issues of “roads, rates and rubbish”.

Submissions to the parliamentary inquiry closed on Sunday. A submission by the Public Interest Advocacy Centre was critical of Housing NSW, raising concerns about inflexible policies and a lack of training for staff in communicating with the mentally ill.

The submission said more needs to be done to ensure people with mental health issues are not placed in housing “in which they may feel at risk, unsafe, or where the accommodation is otherwise inappropriate given their particular circumstances”.

The centre called on Housing NSW to identify social housing tenants in financial hardship, by way of their rental history, and provide “warm referrals” to welfare support services.

TAFE cuts threaten access needs

Photo: Chris Peken

BY TRIANA O’KEEFE At 39, Andrew Grant found himself at a crossroad of sorts. A “pre-mid-life crisis”, as he terms it.

After a neuromuscular condition left him confined to a wheelchair, he was no longer able to enjoy his active lifestyle and career in construction and hospitality.

“Being in a wheelchair and looking to take a new direction in life, I decided that I could choose to do anything I wanted,” he said. “I had an opportunity for a new beginning and a fresh start.”

Throughout his life Andrew had always been drawn to art and creativity.

“Give me a set of pastels and a subject and I was fulfilled.”

But coming from an agricultural and manufacturing family, painting was something reserved for the weekend.

It was not a viable career path.

A few years ago Andrew decided to follow his dream.

“I began to look into various art schools in Sydney but found that many didn’t suit my needs and others just had way too many stairs to negotiate with a wheelchair,” Mr Grant said.

Furthering his education: Andrew Grant

After extensive search, Mr Grant found the St George Art School through which he attained a Diploma of Fine Art. This term he begins studying at the prestigious College of Fine Arts at UNSW, accelerated straight into second year.

Sydney Institute of TAFE has a number of services and amenities for those with special needs, including mobility access, exam assistance and modified learning materials.

A few years ago Andrew decided to follow his dream.

“I looked into various art schools in Sydney but found that many didn’t suit my needs and others just had way too many stairs to negotiate with a wheelchair,” Mr Grant said.

After extensive search, he found the St George Art School through which he attained a Diploma of Fine Art. This term he begins studying at the prestigious College of Fine Arts at UNSW, accelerated straight into second year.

Sydney Institute of TAFE provides a number of services for those with special needs, including mobility access, exam assistance and modified learning materials. But such amenities may be broadly under threat from state government budget cuts and efficiency measures on VET. Greens MP Jamie Parker said TAFE has the opportunity to change lives and we must ensure its future.

“We all want to live in a caring community that provides access for everyone, not just those who can pay or those who are suited to formal university education.,” he said.

“Both Labor and Liberal governments have gutted TAFE, and we are seeing institutes across the state shedding staff, closing courses, reducing face-to-face teaching hours and support services and increasing student fees. These cuts will hit disadvantaged students and those with disabilities the hardest.”

For Mr Grant, going to TAFE revealed an atmosphere which he describes as “unlike anything I have ever experienced before”.

“It was a hub for creatives, an environment where we were all united by a love for art,” Mr Grant said.

“Socially we came together as a group from a variety of different backgrounds and cultures to form bonds that have continued to strengthen.”

Michael Koziol contributed reporting

Published weekly and distributed in the CBD, Pyrmont, Ultimo, Surry Hills, Woolloomooloo, Darlinghurst, East Sydney, Potts Point, Elizabeth Bay, Rushcutters Bay, Chippendale and Glebe. Distribution enquiries call 9212 5677. Published by the Alternative Media Group of Australia.

While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content, The City News takes no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions. ABN 48 135 222 169 Group Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons Group Manager: Chris Peken Group Editor: Michael Koziol City News Editor: Triana O’Keefe Contributing Editor: Paul Gregoire Contributors: John Gooding, Ariana Janiw, Fintan McDonnell, Jonathan Mimo, Shami Sivasubramanian, Myles Stedman and Angela Stretch Arts Editor: Leigh Livingstone Live Music Editor: Chelsea Deeley Dining Editor: Jackie McMillan Advertising Managers: David Sullivan, Toni Martelli, Robert Tuitama and George Tinnyunt Design: Joanna Grace Publisher’s Assistant: Deeksha Chopra Distribution Manager: Danish Ali Cover: Chris Peken -Andrew Grant Email: question@alternativemediagroup.com Advertising: sales@alternativemediagroup.com Contact: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Web: altmedia.net.au

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Airport train fee survives inquiry

BY JOHN GOODING A parliamentary inquiry into Sydney Airport’s station access fee has declined to recommend scrapping the fee, but instead suggests investigating the use of discounts for certain users.

The stations, privately operated by Airport Link Company, require all passengers who purchase a train ticket to or from the domestic or international terminal to pay the station access fee, which is an extra $12.60 for a single adult ticket.

To abolish it, the government would need to either buy back the stations or make regular payments to the private operators.

The inquiry recommended Transport for NSW investigate the feasibility of removing the fee for airport workers, and providing a discount to families or groups.

The report also stated “the committee did not receive enough evidence to comment on whether the government should terminate the concession with Airport Link Company and buy back the stations”.

Having tourists immediately confronted with the fee creates a negative first impression of Sydney, the inquiry heard from the Tourism and Transport forum.

Additionally, the report notes full-time airport workers who commute by train pay an extra $1000 per year as a result of the fee.

But the inquiry also revealed that removing the fee would cost $600 million over 30 years, and maintaining the fee (and its revenue) would most benefit the government, which currently receives 50 per cent of the access fee revenue and is slated to receive 85 per cent by the end of the year.

In her dissenting statement, Greens NSW transport spokesperson and member of the

committee undertaking the inquiry, Mehreen Faruqi, said that the fee should be totally scrapped.

“The committee heard consistently that the complete removal of the station access fee would yield the greatest public and economic benefit, leading to increases in patronage on the airport line, reduced congestion and lower economic burden on workers,” she wrote.

Also dissenting was shadow transport minister Penny Sharpe, who initiated the inquiry and argued that the fee should be abolished or reduced to assist workers and traffic.

“The current fees are effectively a $1000 a year tax on full time workers at the airport,” she said.

“For casual and part timers, the fee can be more than a quarter of what they earn in a shift.”

The state government is required to respond to the recommendations by August this year.

Biennale boycott Alleged Mardi Gras altercation KOZIOL own political views forward, anything, I had a big foam over asylum camps BYOnMICHAEL a night otherwise

BY JOHN GOODING At least five artists will boycott the Biennale of Sydney due to its connection with Transfield Services, the contract-holder to operate detention centres on Manus Island and Nauru.

The five boycotting artists, Ahmet Ögüt, Libia Castro, Ólafur Ólafsson, Gabrielle de Vietri and Charlie Sofo said in a statement they had revoked their works, cancelled their public events and relinquished their fees.

“It is a chain effect. First we felt uncomfortable, then they felt uncomfortable, now other sponsors start feeling uncomfortable,” Mr Ögüt said. “The Biennale has to either reconsider its current agreements with Transfield or lose credibility in the art world.”

On February 21 the board of the Biennale made clear it would not cut ties with Transfield over the issue in a letter addressed to protesting artists.

“The Biennale’s ability to effectively contribute to the cessation of bi-partisan government policy is far from black and white. The only certainty is that without our Founding Partner, the Biennale will no longer exist,” the letter stated.

Biennale chairman Luca Belgiorno-Nettis is also an executive director of Transfield Holdings, the company from which Transfield Services spun off in 2001.

Prominent Australian artist Richard Bell said that he was hoping for more than just a boycott. “We’re going to find out if the Sydney art scene is as pissweak as we think it is,” he told Guardian columnist Van Badham.

The City of Sydney is the festival’s second largest sponsor, fronting up a $300,000 contribution. But it has also side-stepped the issue. A motion to “express... concern regarding the sponsorship agreement with Transfield and the Biennale of Sydney” was amended such that Lord Mayor Clover Moore will instead write to Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison calling for better treatment of asylum seekers.

Liberal councillors Christine Forster and Edward Mandla opposed both motions.

unmarred by the violent incidents which struck last year’s Mardi Gras, one participant has reported an altercation with a man in the Liberal Party float.

Paul Kidd, 49, was marching with “Operation Border Insecurity”, a political float raising concerns about the federal government’s policies, particularly in regard to asylum seekers. He was dressed as Scott Morrison in tropical island drag, because Morrison “used to be the tourism chief and he likes sending people to tropical islands”.

After a staged interaction with the Dykes on Bikes at Taylor Square, Mr Kidd’s float was inserted back into the procession between the Liberal and Labor party floats. He alleges that after exiting Anzac Parade on to the adjacent bus lane, two young members of the Liberal float dropped back from their group and approached him.

Having asked “who are you supposed to be” and being told “Scott Morrison”, Mr Kidd alleges one of the men “tried to grab the placard out of my hand and [then] bashed it into my face”.

“He didn’t hurt me or

mask on,” Mr Kidd said.

“I thought about going to the police but I just feel that it was a stupid act by someone who was just…being overly aggressive about something he didn’t agree with.”

Mr Kidd said he will raise the issue with Mardi Gras organisers.

“It’s completely against the spirit of what Mardi Gras is about and I think it reflects really poorly on the Liberal Party and that group,” he said.

“If people want to put their

they ought to be tolerant of the views of other groups.”

City News cannot independently verify the allegation but Mr Kidd’s partner said there are witnesses to the incident.

A spokesperson for the NSW Liberal Party categorically denied that such an altercation took place.

“That’s completely false,” the spokesperson said.

“At no point did any member of the Liberal Party float engage in a disrespectful manner.”

“Operation Border Insecurity” at the 2014 Mardi Gras

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Violence, power, discrimination the big issues still facing women

BY PAUL GREGOIRE Natasha Stott Despoja wants International Women’s Day to be as much about fighting for the future as it is commemorating achievements already made. The former senator was recently appointed Australia’s Ambassador to Women and Girls and has been an advocate for women’s rights since she entered parliament in 1995.

“International Women’s Day is a great time to commemorate the gains we have made, while recognising the many challenges that are still ahead,” Ms Stott Despoja told City Hub. Once the youngest woman ever to have been elected to parliament, Ms Stott Despoja said it’s an indictment that women still face the same gender pay gap they did four decades ago.

“Women still face discrimination in the workplace, high levels of sexual harassment and discrimination on the basis of pregnancy and breastfeeding,” she said.

The under-

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representation of women in the country’s most powerful institutions is a concern of Ms Stott Despoja’s, including the parliament, where only 31 per cent of members are female.

“I have a lifelong commitment to increasing the participation and representation of women in our parliaments and other representative institutions,” she said.

“31 per cent is not good enough in our federal parliament, just as one woman in the cabinet [Julie Bishop] is not good enough in this 21st century.”

Ms Stott Despoja said it is unfortunate that more changes have not been seen since she left parliament in 2008, but noted there have been some positive gains.

“While we have seen women in our highest positions, including the Governor-General and Prime Minister, we still see sexist portrayals and expectations of women in public office,” she said.

“However, I am thrilled to see more diverse women and women of different ages, including young women, get into our nation’s parliaments.”

Ms Stott Despoja, who

Natasha Stott Despoja, Australia’s Ambassador to Women & Girls

is Chair of the Foundation to Prevent Violence against Women and their Children, said violence is still a major issue faced by women everyday.

That includes in Australia, where a third of women over the age of 15 have experienced a form of physical violence, she said.

In her new role as Australian Ambassador for Women and Girls, Ms Stott Despoja is building partnerships with women and men across the IndoPacific region to advance gender equality. Her focus will be on women’s leadership, economic empowerment, and addressing violence against women.

Ms Stott Despoja has been representing Australia at a regional ASEAN Commission in Indonesia, witnessing aid and development programs in the Pacific. She is about to head overseas again, this time to the UN in New York as part of the government’s delegation to the 58th session of the Commission on the Status of Women.

Woman Scream

BY Angela Stretch The screams of 36 year-old Mexican poet and activist Susana Chavez were not heard. Her face had been taped, head bagged, body raped and neck strangled by three intoxicated 17-year-olds. Her left hand was sawn off in the hope that police would interpret the murder as drug-related.

Lasara, her 99 year-old mother, raised the alarm by asking her brother Alfonzo to go to the mortuary to find out what bodies had been brought in overnight. She herself bought a morning newspaper from a nearby seller on the way to the local police station to report her daughter missing on January 6, 2011. The newspaper headline read: Two Women this Morning.

At the age of 20, Susana stepped on to a stage during an arts festival and read her poems for two hours. Her words were a response to the unsolved women’s murders in Juarez, the epicentre of the drug wars in Mexico. Her slogan ‘not one more death’ proved to be one driven by necessity.

The mountainous region known as Mexico’s Golden Triangle, famous for its marijuana and poppy crops, is on the southern part of the state of Juarez. The state has one of the highest homicides rates in the world. The main groups fighting for the region are the Sinaloa Cartel and the Juarez Cartel. Joaquin El Chapo Guzman, the Mexican drug lord, was recently arrested in the northern Mexican state of Sinaloa.

The chaotic environment surrounding the border crossings of Mexico’s drug producers and drug-trafficking groups ensures that the violence is increasing yet again.

In March, more than 30 countries will deliver messages of respect, self-esteem

The site of the Susana Chavez murder

and non-violence against women, through artwork, poetry and cultural activities.

Sydney will add its vibrations in an inaugural event, the Woman Scream International Poetry Festival.

Founded in 2011 in honour of Susana, the festival coincides with International Women’s Day, this Saturday March 8. Poets, musicians and artists are encouraged to submit their works.

In culture, screams assert themselves.

They press on the listener’s consciousness in the way that pain presses on the consciousness of the person hurt. They demand urgent or empathetic responses. It may be for that reason that artistic screams, or images of the human scream, continue to signal alarm and warn of danger.

When women scream, the world must listen.

Woman Scream, 29 Mar, Red Rattler Theatre, 6 Faversham St, Marrickville, $7-10, redrattler.org/event/707/woman-screaminternational-poetry-festival

WestConnex to wipe out wetlands

BY PAUL GREGOIRE Marrickville residents and councillors fear the state government’s WestConnex motorway project will threaten the Tempe Reserve and Lands, after ministers refused to guarantee the area would be preserved.

A viaduct from St Peters to Tempe could impact the reserve and wetlands as part of the Taverners Hill to St Peters tunnel, which would connect the new M4 Extension with the Sydney Airport Link.

Patrick McInerney, Tempe resident and Marrickville Citizen of the Year, said the viaduct will be built straight across Tempe Reserve and Lands and will adversely affect the local community.

“It’s going to marginalise the people who live in East Tempe because they’re going to have a 50 foot high, eight lane freeway at one end of their suburb,” he said.

“And then they’re going to have the Princess Highway at the other.”

Mr McInerney explained that the Tempe Wetlands are an important investment made by council, which purify runoff water before it hits the Cooks River.

“It’s a vital part of keeping our waterways clean. Not only that, it’s now become home to some native birds and animals that haven’t been seen in the area for fifty years,” he said.

Marrickville Mayor Jo Haylen said the Tempe Reserve and Lands

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are an essential open space for a heavily populated, industrialised area of Sydney.

“Marrickville has one of the lowest ratios of open space per person in Sydney and Tempe Reserve represents 16 per cent of council’s open space,” she said.

Ms Haylen recently met with NSW Roads Minister Duncan Gay and Planning Minister Brad Hazzard and conveyed the importance of preserving the green space.

“We also discussed the significant capital expenditure that has been

invested there, $9 million on Tempe Reserve in the last 10 years and a further $19 million on Tempe Lands,” she said.

Ms Haylen is disappointed that the ministers would not guarantee the preservation of Tempe Reserve and Lands but said they did agree to release a discussion paper.

“Minister Gay told us that he would make the discussion paper available in the immediate future and release the preferred design option for community consultation in June 2014,” she said.

Labor councillor Chris Woods

Marrickville councillor Chris Woods at Tempe Wetlands

said after a year of planning and consultation on stage one of the WestConnex project, stage two remains nothing more than a line on a map running through Tempe Reserve and Lands.

“Marrickville residents are concerned that we are becoming an afterthought in the motorway planning process and our precious open space and wetlands will be sacrificed,” he said.

Mr Woods pointed out there are other viable options for the route, which would involve similar costs and minimal impact on the reserve and wetlands.

“Local strategies to avoid the Tempe Reserve could include an elevated motorway from the M5 exit over the Giovanni Brunetti Bridge and Shea’s Creek into the proposed tunnel link,” he said. “[Another option is] a tunnel from the M5 emerging in the lands to the north of the airport.”

A spokesperson for WestConnex Delivery Authority (WDA) said stage two will include a surface and viaduct link to Sydney Airport and community consultations will be taking place.

“WDA is carefully considering a range of impacts, including on green space such as Tempe Wetlands, in developing its designs for stage two of WestConnex,” the spokesperson said.

“The project team looks forward to consulting with the local community on how best to avoid and manage any impacts on this section later this year.”

news in brief Free trees for greener communities The City of Sydney is hoping to inject a sea of green into the landscape by giving away 1000 free trees.

“Trees make our streets more beautiful as well as improve air quality and provide habitat for birds and animals,” Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

“We already have around 42,000 trees in our streets and parks across the city, and we’re planning for many more. Now we are encouraging residents to join our efforts by providing free trees for their backyard.”

Almost ten thousand trees have been planted by council since 2005, and the City has set a target of increasing the urban canopy by 50 per cent by 2030.

It is their hope that the residents will share the goal of a greener future for the city and its villages.

Residents can choose a tree on Saturday March 29 from a range of 21 species, but need to register their interest beforehand.

Triana O’Keefe

Rhino bashing One of the fiberglass rhinos outside Sydney Town Hall on George Street has been vandalised and removed for repair.

The rhino was one of 125 installed around the city and in Dubbo as part of Taronga Zoo’s Wild!

Rhinos art project, to raise awareness about the plight of endangered rhinoceroses falling victim to poaching.

Angela Vithoulkas, the City of Sydney councillor who initiated the project, said it was disappointing that such a “mindless act of violence” was committed on this beautiful piece of art.

“It is ironic that the rhinos placed around the city are there to bring people’s attention to the poaching and potential extinction in the wild, yet our very own rhino was not safe in civilisation,” she said.

Taronga Zoo expressed its disappointment and said the rhino would be back on the block as soon as possible.

Myles Stedman

By DANIEL PAPERNY Waverley Council will review its events policy in a response to claims the wording is ambiguous and allows for considerable misinterpretation.

The move was sparked by an incident on January 24, when Greens MLC David Shoebridge was approached by Waverley Council rangers for not having a permit for his Beachsaver campaign at Bondi Beach. Mr Shoebridge was handing out flyers together with a group of campaigners on the beachfront.

Last revised in January of 2013, the Policy defines an event as an organised gathering

within the Waverley LGA where “people assemble at a given time for entertainment, recreation or community purpose... organised by Waverley Council or an external person, group or organisation”. It requires such events to apply for prior approval.

Mr Shoebridge said his campaign, organised online via social media, involved raising awareness about the impact of rising sea levels on local beaches like Bondi by handing out pamphlets to residents and beachgoers.

“Council should recognise the fact this is 2014, not 1950, and

Greens MP David Shoebridge with supporters of the Beachsaver campaign

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people need to be free to put a call to their friends and family on social media to catch up at the beach, without getting a permit,” he said.

Mr Shoebridge said his group was threatened with a $220 fine but argued the community should have the right to participate in local campaigns.

“It’s deeply unfortunate the mayor is so threatened by her own community and I think that’s what is driving this policy.

The community might have a different view about how their local areas should be run ...no council should think they can change this.”

Waverley Mayor Sally Betts countered by drawing a distinction between a social gathering and mobilising a large concentration of people for the promotion of personal campaigns.

“We have this policy for events so we can control and preserve our beach, [ensuring] we haven’t got too many events at the same time,” she said.

“Obviously we welcome everybody to the beach and we are happy for people to invite their friends [via] social media – we can’t control that.”

But Labor councillor John Wakefield said he would have allowed the protest to occur if he were mayor, as long as it didn’t

impact adversely on passers by. He questioned whether Waverley Council or the police have the right to stop a public event of a political nature.

“The fact remains that people have a right to political protest,” Mr Wakefield said.

“Bondi Beach is frequently crowded, [it] often hosts events of a political nature and in previous mayoralties, this was never an issue. We encouraged open debate about political and social issues, we never suppressed them.”

But Ms Betts stressed the importance of safety, with the policy ensuring there were adequate provisions for any large-scale events that may take place.

“The problem with [organising a campaign via] social media is it’s something that is not invitation only,” she said.

“You have not defined the group of people that are going to be advised about it.”

Ms Betts told City News she is open to a revision of the policy wording, arguing the policy was first introduced to prevent overcrowding in Waverley’s public spaces.

“We have never had a problem with our policy, we think it is sensible and of course we don’t want anybody to get the wrong idea.”

Cartoon: Peter Berner

Permission denied: council to review events policy

Stepping up to the mic

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very honoured, privileged to be asked to do it.”

According to Ilic, Liccardello took his role as interviewer very seriously.

His research was thorough and his questioning delved deep.

“When you sit down in front of Chas, be prepared for anything. Chas is a student of psychology. A student of the human condition. He’s very much like Andrew Denton in that regard.”

Backstage may have been intense, but onstage, the comics pushed on equally poignant issues.

“I talk about my dad being disabled.

Photo: Chris Peken

BY Shami Sivasubramanian Bondi boy Dan Ilic, best known from Radio National’s A Rational Fear, is set to feature in SBS2’s upcoming comedy show, Stand Up @ Bella Union.

Having lived in Bondi for the past two years, Ilic’s latest venture will lead him southward, to Melbourne.

Set in the historic Bella Union Trades Hall, each episode within the ten-part series features stand-up from three comedians discussing race, social inclusion, and politics, spliced with backstage interviews conducted by Chaser’s Chas Liccardello. The show hopes to reveal more about each comic, their life, and their inspiration.

“It’s a hall steeped in activism and progressive comedy,” Ilic said.

“Over the course of the years, people have fought for many things, mostly being paid better. But the cool thing is the Bella Union is a beautiful old theatre space in this elegant Victorian building.

During the Melbourne Comedy Festival it becomes a sort of alternative hub to the main comedy scene down at the Town Hall. It feels like home performing there.”

Yet, the self-confessed Investigative Humourist initially passed on the offer to perform in the line up.

“Like, I’m not really a stand-up. I’m a sketch comedian. A filmmaker. A journalist.”

But it was the involvement of unknown talent and friends he admired that eventually that swayed his decision.

“Chas was doing it. And I’m friends with Chas. Some of the best comedians in Australia who are unknown are doing it. And that was really cool for me. I was

I talk about growing up with a Serbian last name during the time of the Yugoslav Civil War. I talk about doing stand-up in Afghanistan. I talk about some tough things.”

It is difficult to imagine these topics in a laughable context. Yet Ilic explains his background as a satirist with A Rational Fear has taught him well.

“In the Rational Fear office, we have arguments over the tiniest things whether to include a certain word. Or whether to attack a certain topic. So it’s kind of like we stress out a lot about if we’re doing the right thing. And I think that’s a good sign.”

Stand Up @ Bella Union premieres Sunday March 9 at 9pm on SBS2.

Dive in, stand up - Bondi comedian Dan Ilic stars in Stand Up @ Bella Union

Graffiti crackdown paints the town beige

BY Jonathan Mimo Waverley Council intends to crack down on graffiti after a spate of “incidents” across Bondi have left some residents upset.

Liberal councillors Joy Clayton and Tony Kay put forward a motion at the February 18 council meeting to investigate how other neighbouring councils approach graffiti prevention.

The motion also requested council to consider graffiti prevention measures at ‘hot spots’ in the local government area that are frequently targeted.

Deputy Mayor Tony Kay said Waverley Council “can improve its graffiti management by learning what others do” while ensuring any new measures adopted align with changes to the NSW Graffiti Control Act. “Graffiti ruins the way places look, and can cause distress to local residents and visitors. We must do our best to deter it, and to remove it as soon as possible,” Mr Kay said.

The move follows the NSW Government’s intention to overhaul its own graffiti laws after a review found the Graffiti Legislation Amendment Act 2012 - which imposed additional penalties including fines, community service

work and delaying the awarding of a driver’s licence - was ineffective.

But Lenore Kulakauskas, convenor of the Bondi Beach Precinct Committee, questioned whether another review was worthwhile.

“How they deal with it now is fine, you are never going to stop graffiti so all you can do is go around and clean it up,” she said.

Greens councillor Dominic Wy Kanak has been supportive of the new investigation but hopes council’s response can also acknowledge graffiti as art and recreation.

“Youth alienation resulting in ‘tagging’ has a lot to do with the social policies pursued by state and federal governments,” he said.

“Council’s obsession with graffiti needs to be balanced against the process of allowing developers to tag our streets with ugly ego-driven ‘designs’ while condemning graffiti which often has more artistic value.”

Graffiti tags may contain the name of the tagger, and police use this information as well as comparing styles to investigate potential offenders.

New plans for west Oxford Street, Bondi

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In July, NSW finance minister Greg Pearce revealed plans to sell air space at 13 bus depot locations across Sydney, paving the way for new high-rise apartments in key metropolitan locations. One key location is the Waverley bus depot, located on the western part of Oxford Street opposite Centennial Park.

Mr Morris believes the state government is seeking to capitalise on the asset it has with the Waverley bus depot, with the site possessing significant development potential.

“We are being manipulated by the council and being only told as much as they wish to tell us,” he said.

“It is obvious the state government are looking to reap as much revenue as they can, I think that’s what is driving this change.”

But Ms Betts said she was in favour of retaining the bus depot, arguing the site was also an opportunity for Waverley Council to get creative - with either a new high school or

childcare centre under consideration. As the most densely populated LGA in Australia, Waverley currently has 14 high schools, but Ms Betts said the council is under pressure to accommodate an increasing amount of school children.

“In a municipality like Waverley, we don’t have the privilege of finding a place [for school children] with beautiful grounds. What we are trying to do is be proactive, we want open space, we want to effectively [manage] the way traffic moves in that area.

“If you come down York Road, we’ve grappled with that intersection for many years because the cars can’t turn right there. So that’s just one tiny issue we can sort out.”

Waverley Council will hold a community drop-in session this Saturday from 11am at St James Reserve in Bondi Junction, an opportunity for residents to share their thoughts on the future of the western Oxford Street precinct.= Photo: Sydney-Eye

BY DANIEL PAPERNY Labor councillor Paula Masselos has criticised the Waverley Liberals about plans for western Oxford Street in Bondi Junction, alleging a lack of transparency in the negotiation process.

The precinct is the focus of an extensive neighbourhood re-development project with proposed changes to the current zoning and development controls in the Local Environment Plan (LEP), in response to extensive development applications in the area.

“We have to make sure the residents are involved in all parts of the process,” Ms Masselos told City News.

“The precinct includes part of the Mill Hill conservation - the heritage area and whatever happens, it’s got to be very sensitive to that. It’s got to be something that the residents are happy with, I want it to be open and transparent.”

Waverley Mayor Sally Betts said a community engagement strategy was included at the start of the process, with council set to hold a stakeholder and resident workshop together with a community consultation on any draft concept plan regarding the precinct.

“What we want is for the community to be involved from the very beginning,” she said.

“Councils have always been quite reactive in the past. We are trying to shift to a more strategic way of planning around Waverley and set all the controls.”

But Gil Morris, a resident of Bondi Junction for more than 30 years, said the community has not been informed as to why council wants to change the Local Environment Plan (LEP).

“Prior to the LEP of 2012 we operated under a LEP that was written in 1996,” he said.

“It’s been a long time since the plan was changed but recently it was changed in 2012 and as a resident I am puzzled why it is necessary to change the plan again.”

Buses at the Waverley Depot on Oxford Street

Councils reject amalgamation

BY Ariana Janiw Waverley Council has rejected a proposal by the NSW Independent Local Government Review Panel for an amalgamation with the City of Sydney, Woollahra, Randwick and Botany councils.

Revitalising Local Government recommended the merger to create a joint “community of interest” and strengthen the financial position of the councils.

The panel was formed with the objective of creating a revitalised system of local government that would remain sustainable to 2050.

Waverley Major Sally Betts said the City of Sydney and Waverley were not communities of interest as Waverley was a coastal council with “very different needs and aspirations to the City of Sydney”. She said a conflict of interest would occur between the City and Waverley’s vision of Bondi Junction.

Ms Betts argued the panel’s proposal “would not lead to improved services for the Waverley community”.

“I am against the idea of merging with City of Sydney because I don’t see how the interests of Waverley residents

will be served by being gobbled up by the City.”

She said Waverley Council was already working on key projects with neighbouring councils including a joint waste program with Woollahra.

After posting a surplus last year Ms Betts said she expects Waverley to continue this into the next few years and has applied to TCorp to have its current financial position reviewed.

Waverley councillor Ingrid Strewe said she had not seen a substantial argument for amalgamation.

“The only benefit if we were to amalgamate with City of Sydney would be more budget, but then we would all be fighting for it,” she said.

Cr Stewe also expressed concerns about the merge having “no democratic, community or social benefit” except for the development industry.

“There would be a minimal number of councillors to assist people in their daily needs,” Cr Stewe said.

“The whole of Waverley may only have three councillors.”

Woollahra Councillor Andrew Petrie supported discussing amalgamation, but said it is ultimately unnecessary.

The world of women

By Fintan Mcdonnell A rescue mission in the land of the dead, looking for love at a humble train station and a documentary focused on burlesque clubs - these stories and more will be exhibited in the World of Women (WoW) Film Festival to celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8th.

The film festival highlights contemporary short films made with key creative input from women.

Over 90 films will be shown across multiple venues, ranging from documentaries, animations, short films, feature films and experimental films.

Festival director Tamara Popper is in charge of the many necessary preparations. “Very, very busy,” she says. “But everything is falling into place brilliantly.”

This is Popper’s second time directing the festival, and this year she is presiding over its 20th anniversary.

“The theme of the WoW Film Festival every year is always ‘seeing the world through the eyes of women,’” she says. “We encourage cultural diversity and gender diversity as well. These are always the themes of WoW. And of course it’s a celebration of Australian and international female filmmakers, it’s a platform for them.”

Included in the festival are many other events besides film screenings.

Popper lists some, “We have talks from industry practitioners, a film stills exhibition, a writer’s forum, networking events, the awards ceremony, opening night, red carpet screening and the after party,” she says.

Popper sees the World of Women Film Festival as an important stepping-stone for beginner directors, producers and writers - especially female ones.

She says: “Festivals like WoW and Tropfest are very different but they both play a strong role in encouraging emerging filmmakers or established filmmakers to explore the short form and do something interesting, fun, or edgy with short

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filmmaking.”

One such emerging filmmaker is Newtown resident Stef Smith. Her first short film - a mockumentary called Josh - will be shown at Parliament House Theatre on March 5 and the Vanguard on March 10.

“I’d love to do more short films after this,” she says. “Shorts really are the only way in for a lot of creatives and also a way for everyone to keep working and keep producing films.”

She’s grateful for the inclusion in the festival.

“If you’ve got talent and skill and you get broadcast on a platform like WoW or Tropfest, it’s only going to benefit your career.”

In her film actor Toby Truslove plays the eponymous Josh.

“Josh is a mockumentary on the missing Hemsworth brother, Josh Hemsworth,” Truslove says. “He’s the fourth, never-heard-of brother who has decided he wants to get into acting like his brothers. So he is hopeful but adorably blind to his own ineptitude; he’s not a great actor.”

Truslove is an established television, theatre and film actor. He starred in ABC’s Laid and Outland, and in Channel Seven’s The Strange Calls. Stef Smith contacted him through Facebook and he agreed to help out.

“Short films are fun to do, and short filmmakers tend to be the next generation of TV directors and filmmakers,” he says. “It’s important that we foster a healthy short film industry.”

The theme for International Women’s Day this year is ‘Inspiring Change’.

Tamara Popper says that this change is in encouraging female creatives to experiment with their medium.

She says, “WoW encourages filmmakers to change and explore their own filmmaking.” (FM) WoW Film Festival, various venues, free-$35, wift.org

International Women’s Day began in 1911, with rallies campaigning for women’s rights. It is celebrated on March 8th internationally, and is a public holiday in Russia, Ukraine, Cambodia, Uganda and many other countries. It is a day to celebrate the social, economic and political achievements of women while raising awareness of areas that need further action. These are just some of the events happening in Sydney.

Sydney International Women’s Day Breakfast The official UN Women International Women’s Day event in Sydney, this breakfast features talks from prominent guest speakers about women and children in poverty.

The speakers include CEO of the Commonwealth Bank Australia, Ian Narev, Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick from the Australian Crime Commission, the head of the UN Women Pacific Office Elzira Sagynbaeva, journalist and author Catherine Fox and director of Samoan organisation Women in Business Development, Adi Tafuna’i.

Mar 7, Australia Technology Park, $60-95 Speak Up to End Violence Against Women Art Auction and Cocktail Evening A fundraiser for Women’s Legal Services NSW’s new campaign to help women escape violence.

With feminist journalist and Destroy the Joint cofounder Jenna Price as MC, the event will exhibit works from prominent and upcoming Australian female artists.

Mar 5, Damien Minton Gallery, 583 Elizabeth St, Redfern, $32.15 International Women’s Day Conference Organised by Young Professional Women Australia, this conference is designed to inspire confidence, resilience and clarity in the workforce for women.

Mar 7, Ivy Ballroom, 1/330 George St, Sydney, $199 Festival Director Tamara Popper

EAT & DRINK

Mille Vini New management and Chef John Lanzafame rattling the pans finally gave me cause to visit this Italian wine bar, which - I’m almost ashamed to admit - has been in operation for over a decade. Better late than never I think, over a warmed skillet of Sambuca Fritti Olives ($6.50) that defied my intense aniseed expectations with compelling, syrupy sweetness. The $ - mains less than $15

$$ - mains between $15-$22

EASTERN SUBURBS Elmo’s Restaurant Yes, it’s in a club, but this deceptively exciting restaurant is in a glass box overlooking Coogee Beach. Manager Vinni Dias is an excellent guide (and enthusiast) for the traditional end of this Brazilian-influenced Australian menu that includes Pão de Queijo ($8) cheese bread and Sydney Rock Oysters ($18/6) with flavoursome ‘kiss peppers’, lime, Spanish onion, coriander and palmito. The latter ingredient is a revelation in Baked Palm Heart, Tomato, Chutney, Pimento & Gorgonzola ($16), too.

Escondidinho de Cogumelos ($15) delivers four types of mushrooms sautéed in garlic and butter, buried

By Jackie McMillan beautiful heritage-listed space lined with wines does tend to inspire a powerful thirst. I dabbled with a dry yet strawberry-scented 2012 Italian Collefrisio Cerasuolo Rosè ($12/glass), an affable companion to Torta di Melanzane ($16), baked eggplant with tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella. To further illustrate what a friend we have in cheeses, Lanzafame’s Ricotta Infornata ($16) - a slow-baked wheel of ricotta drizzled with green olive salsa - proved another hit.

However even it is eclipsed by a decadent Radicchio Salad ($17); dotted with orange segments, walnuts and yes, more cheese (this time goat). It’s easy to see why pairs of women occupy most tables, including my own. We pull back with a shared main of Rigatoni ($24), its chilli bite eased with muscatels, toasted pine nuts and basil, to guarantee room for dessert.

Clinking spoons in Meringata ($12) taken in tandem with the 2012 Pizzini Brachetto ($12/glass) ensures we leave smiling.

397 Crown Street, Sydney (02) 9357 3366 millevini.com.au Bar,Wine, Italian $$$-$$$$ $$$ - mains between $22-$30

under cassava and cheese; but their biggest hit is Moqueca ($34) a red, coconut-enriched fish and prawn stew – oh and eight-buck Mojitos!

Coogee Legion Ex-Service Club, 200 Arden Street, Coogee (02) 9665 8230 coogeelegionclub. com.au/elmos-restaurant/ Brazilian/Modern Australian $$-$$$ Mr. Moustache “Are you going to search me,” a giggling diner asks. Wearing rubber gloves, we’re about to dive into Tortita Ahogada ($12) - the cantina’s messiest dish - a delicious pork sandwich you “drown” with spicy salsa. On one side there’s an opulent bar, and on the other, a colourful kitchen reflecting Mexican street food culture. So drink Mezcal-based

$$$$ - mains over $30

cocktails like El Original del Diablo ($18) with homemade ginger beer against share plates: Seasonal Ceviche ($10); Tostaditas Pato ($12/3) mini tacos with spicy duck - and Huitlacoche ($12/3) - black corn truffle, roasted corn and fresco cheese. Their star dessert is Plantos Machos ($11) – plantain, coffee liquor and burnt goat’s milk.

75-79 Hall Street, Bondi Beach 9300 8892 mr-moustache.com.au Mexican, Cocktails $-$$ DARLO, KINGS X & SURRY HILLS Old Growler In a basement on the cusp of Kings Cross, this bar has the ambience

Verde Restaurant & Bar Despite Verde being a Stanley Street stalwart for the last six years, it had escaped my notice until a “stupendous” review in Gault & Millau’s debut entry into Sydney’s reviewing scene. Expecting something of a fine-diner, I was surprised to find a modern space serving home-style Southern Italian. Chef Antonio Ruggerino explains his menu as “basically what you’d find on my Mother’s table.” He suggests an array of a Nick Cave murder ballad with exposed bulbs, flaking walls and an abundance of bearded men. However the menu’s seasonal, the produce is free-range and ethically sourced.

The Grass-Fed Beef Burger ($16) is whizzing around the room along with five-buck craft beers by Young Henry’s from 5-7pm.We snack on Haloumi Mozzarella Croquettes ($14), they’re more like balls but let’s not be pedantic - they taste bloody good. So does an elegant Pickled Green Mango ($9) with crushed pumpkin seeds, but be warned - her scotch bonnets are smoking hot!

216-218 William Street, Woolloomooloo oldgrowler.com.au Bar, Bar Food $$ Queenie’s Pulling into The Forresters on a Friday night, the place was rammed,

of antipasti; my favourite being his Mum’s recipe – hockey puck-shaped Potato and Parsley Fritters ($10).

Alongside meaty Warmed Sicilian Olives ($10) in chilli and garlic confit, and tender Chilli Dusted Calamari ($12), they make great drinking snacks against a fruitdriven 2012 Woodlands Margaret River Chardonnay ($52/bottle). Simplistic pastas, like Linguine Vongole ($36) keep crowds of mostly regulars, and lunchtime corporates blessed with hefty expense accounts, coming back. I find it’s outclassed by Pan Fried Snapper with Saffron Pappardelle, Peas, Capers and Butter Sauce ($36). For something more substantial, there’s the Confit of Duck Leg with Herbed Gnocchi and Caramelised Balsamic Pear ($36). While you relax and wait for Anthonio’s Yellow Gum honeydrizzled Buffalo Milk Gelato ($14) (made by his mate at Gelatissimo) to wind things up, check out his black and white family photos, and his wall of owned racehorses, which happily “pay for themselves.”

115 Riley Street, East Sydney (02) 9380 8877 verde.net.au Italian $$$$

so I traipsed up the stairs to their Jamaican-inspired domain. Cute-asa-button waitresses wearing eclectic braids, hair wraps and tropical shorts explained the menu: “Basically anything with the word ‘jerk’ in it is good.”

BBQ Jerk Corn ($8) arrived liberally coated in coconut. A squeeze of lime took it from sweet to savoury, with three exotic tableside chilli sauces completing its journey from mild to wild. After a Coconut Daiquiri ($16) we decided to just snack, ordering tasty Plantain Fritters ($9) and bammies (flat cassava flour pancakes) bearing Prawn, Mango and Ginger ($7) with a clever cocktail cultural collision: Sunset Sangria ($20/jug).

Level 1,The Forresters, 336 Riley Street, Surry Hills (02) 9212 3035 queenies.com.au Jamaican, Cocktails, Pub Bistro $$-$$$

House This Issan cousin has kept the fermented anchovy, fresh chilli and tamarind staples of the regional cuisine, whilst adding a few of the gentler Spice I Am favourites to the menu.You’ll now find Yellow Curry Chicken ($19) and Gaeng Keaw Wan Nua Toun ($19), a green beef curry with apple eggplants. Meaty snacks like Mood Daed Deaw ($8.50) - sun-dried marinated pork strips - make good drinking food, so order an inexpensive bottle of Tim Knappstein Riesling ($23) at the Triple Ace Bar before heading outside for a ripper Thai meal in an outdoor pub atmosphere. Don’t leave without sharing their infamous B.T.S. ($16) dessert - just in case it is…

198 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills (02) 9211 6888 spiceiam.com/house-surry-hills Thai, Pub Bistro $$

EAT & DRINK

Macleay Street Bistro In an age when restaurants are constantly rebranding, re-badging and updating, new owners Mark Campbell and Phillip Fikkers are swimming against the tide.

Patrons for over eighteen years, they bought the restaurant they loved, kept the name and their favourite dishes; staying conscious of – and determined to preserve – the spot’s thirty-year history.You’ll see it in everything from the soft Brian ROCKS & CBD

The Flynn What struck me as a sports bar heaved a collective sigh of relief when the throbbing mass of Happy Hour suits gave way to casual, relaxed diners. Pushing through to the cavelike interior, one is rewarded with a spot of Teutonic sophistication with Bar Manager Luke Reimann turning out a Blue Cheese Martini ($19) that highlights Crystal Head Vodka in a way that’d make Dan Aykroyd smile.

It’s a shoe-in with Gorgonzola-stuffed Zucchini Blossoms ($14); while his Rum Chocolate Manhattan ($22) sets off the Rangers Valley Angus 300-day Grain Fed Steak ($28) a treat. Even the thin Chorizo Artisan Pizza ($19) is a winner, with lashings of piquillo pepper mayo.

With “no pokies, and no gambling of any kind,” The Merton Hotel is “very family-oriented,” explains Bar Manager Jake Dylan. He’s handsome, personable, and a wedding singer on weekends (which accounts for the pub’s great playlist). Over a Peroni ($7.00/schooner) and Cascade Premium $$ - mains between $15-$22

INNER WEST Nithik’s Kitchen Hankering for good Indian? This Rozelle gem by Chef Vikram Arumugam (ex-Aki’s) has an innovative and flavoursome menu.

Southern Indian Samuthiram ($18.90) is a definite favourite, layering school prawns, crab and rice pancakes with a creamy coconut sauce and a side of Bengalese shrimp, chilli and tomato paste. Tree of Taste ($12.90) gives an oral and artistic demonstration of Vikram’s flavour palate. Great coconut chutney and homemade ghee notches Masala Dosa ($13) above

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Hoy refurbishment, to them keeping the Classic Steak Tartare ($22) – lovingly beaten out by a waiter who’s mixed it tableside for customers for the last five years. It sings against the 2011 Framingham Riesling ‘Classic’ ($13/glass), which also works with new Head Chef Tom Williams’ accessible Chicken Liver Pate ($16) with pickled red grapes. In Tom’s hands, the menu feels much improved yet resolutely holds on to what it is: simple French-inspired bistro cuisine. Sous Chef Sophie Heath provides kitchen continuity – and excellent pan-fried Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi with Sage Beurre Noisette ($24) – in a serving size that leaves plenty of space for dessert. There she isn’t afraid to deliver a textbook White Chocolate Cheesecake ($16) with strawberry coulis, no matter how out of fashion it may be. Throw in next-gen George Clooney-lookalike Daniel Carter working the floor, and it’s a formula for longevity.

73a Macleay Street, Potts Point (02) 9358 4891 macleaystbistro.com.au Modern French,WIne $$$-$$$$

2A Bligh Street, Sydney (02) 9223 0037 theflynn.com.au Pub Bistro, Cocktail $$-$$$ Two Sticks Lying close to Thailand, China’s Yunnan region is famous for mushrooms, flowers, salads, cold noodles and individual hotpots, and it’s set to become Sydney’s next big thing. Housed under a bright yellow ribcage, this small, fast-paced eatery bustles with diners and black-clad staff. Dai Style Enoki Salad ($3.80) is spicy (as most dishes are). Order it alongside a hotpot - Yunnan Signature Rice Noodle Soup ($11.80) delivers pork and chicken stock accentuated by quail eggs, silky rice noodles, slivered beef and chicken. Hot and Numbing Beef ($4.80) cold garlic poached beef slices with spicy chilli dressing - and Yunnan Signature Fries

The Merton Hotel

$ - mains less than $15

By Jackie McMillan

($3.80) that take ordinary crinkle-cut fries somewhere extraordinary - are must-eats.

694 George Street, Sydney facebook.com/Twosticksaustralia Chinese $ Star Bar Some people have pubs in their blood; fourth generation hotelier Kim Maloney is a prime example, operating Sydney’s St. James, Maloney’s, Sanctuary and Shark hotels, plus The Clock Hotel in Queensland. Unsurprisingly his newly renovated Star Bar is a slick operation.The $2 million facelift references to the building’s previous inhabitants: Planet Hollywood, and 1930s predecessor Plaza Cinema. His kitchen coup is Danny Russo who supplements good steaks – a 400g Rib Eye ($33) - modern Italianate

Draft ($4.00/375ml) in the cosy front bar, he offers us a taste-test of the hotel’s two chardonnays. We head out to the bistro armed with the 2011 Botanica ($30/bottle), priced – like the bulk of their list – under-forty bucks. The menu combines the talents of a Thai Head Chef and a Mexican Sous Chef in a delightfully successful way. Drawn in by their use of Booma Boers goat meat from Dorrigo NSW, Curry Goat ($23) is a must. It’s a rich, flavoursome Caribbean curry featuring ginger, shallots, chillies, thyme and allspice presented on a platter with rice, flatbread and yoghurt. A dollop of the tableside Pickapeppa Spicy Mango Sauce adds an element of sweetness to the robust flavours and achingly tender goat. It also goes well with Jamaican Jerk Chicken ($22) and Pulled Pork Tacos ($14/3). Betel Leaves ($8/3) topped with citrus, coconut and peanut are enough to convince me to come back to try the Thai side of the menu, and they even offer some traditional pub favourites too.

38 Victoria Road, Rozelle (02) 8065 9577 themertonhotel.com.au Pub Bistro,Wine, Jamaican $$ $$$ - mains between $22-$30

most I’ve tried.Vikram’s curries are all great: from Meen Manga Charu ($25) of barramundi, coconut and green mango, to labour-intensive lycheestuffed cottage cheese balls Lagaan Ke Kofti ($18) liberally dunked in cashew gravy and scattered with dried fruit.

679 Darling Street, Rozelle (02) 8084 8921 Indian $$-$$$ The Oxford Tavern Hopefully the super cute fivebuck Cheeseburger ($5) here – sandwiching beef, mustard, crunchy pickles, ketchup and gooey cheese between soft brioche buns – will be the death knell for Stanmore McDonalds. Michael Delany’s

$$$$ - mains over $30

remodelling of Petersham’s infamous pole dancing and jelly wrestling venue is now the most family-friendly of the Drink’n’Dine venues… if you think up an age-appropriate explanation of The Jelly Wrestle ($20) dessert that comes with gloves not cutlery. Kidfree, I availed myself of a Swinging Tit ($9) with Kraken Spiced Rum and pink jellied foam sprayed onto your arm. Buffalo Cauliflower Balls ($14) with blue cheese and hot sauces will stick to your ribs during a dive bar drinking session.

1 New Canterbury Road, Petersham (02) 8019 9351 theoxfordtavern.com.au American, Pub Bistro, Cocktails $$

Gowings Bar & Grill Despite riding up in the lift with a Leeloo lookalike, bumping into Curtis Stone in the hip QT lobby, then hearing that Luke Mangan frequents the bar for Chardonnay; I found this restaurant surprisingly approachable. Restaurant Manager Marie Gallien explained, that while her striking floor staff do have their hair and makeup done (down to a particular shade of lipstick), it’s frequented by a diverse range dishes. Expect heaving Antipasto Platters ($17) to Verdura Pizza ($16), to a Russolini Parma Burger ($17) boasting crumbed Angus patty, melted mozzarella and Napoli sauce that eats well with Birra Moretti ($7.50) and Italian Slaw ($6).

600 George Street, Sydney (02) 9267 7827 starbar.com.au Pub Bistro, Modern Italian, Pizza $$ GREATER SYDNEY Sedap Malaysian Kopitiam Part café, part street-side hawker, this addition to Westfield Eastgardens new Banks Avenue dining precinct offers al fresco dining and paved paths. It feels like an artificial land, even on a busy Thursday evening. We relax into an Ice Coffee ($4) laced with heavenly

of people. A casually dressed woman, relaxing with just a novel and classic Prawn Cocktail ($18) for companionship, proved her point nicely. With the lively sound of the upstairs function space, and the clanks and sizzle from Executive Chef Paul Easson’s open kitchen, you’re unlikely to feel lonely if you pop in for flavoursome Hot Spanner Crab Cakes ($19) or perfectly-handled Darling Downs Black Angus Rib Eye ($48/350g). Ours arrived well-rested and sliced for sharing, with a performative array of condiments on the side. Tartare of Yellowfin Tuna ($18) is marvellously simple, whilst a pair of Whole Roasted Quails ($38) partially deboned, prove indulgent – stuffed with smoked ham, sage, malt, Parmesan and barley bread, then drizzled with quail jus. Sides will be necessary; and so is dessert – so arrive hungry, lest you miss the visibly pink pleasure of a layered verrine of Berry Mousse ($15).

Level 1, 49 Market Street, Sydney (02) 8262 0062 qtsydney.com.au Modern Australian $$$$

condensed milk. Crisp Pork Rolls ($4/each) are wrapped in bean curd and come with a delicious garlic chilli sauce, while Szechuan Ribs ($15.80) are finger licking good.

Everyone’s favourite Malaysian dish, Char Kuey Teow ($12) stacks up well with pork sausage. The Beef Rendang ($14.40) is spot on, but Ice Cendol ($6) ‘green worm’ and mung bean noodles on shaved ice might be just for true Malay enthusiasts.

Westfield Eastgardens, Banks Avenue, Eastgardens (02) 9344 7095 sedap.com.au Malaysian $ Minskys Hotel This newly renovated hotel - subtly masculine without being alienating to women – has kept the 1am kitchen. Publican Anthony Brady

says: “We want people to like this place.” He’s clearly proud of the new menu by Robert Oey, who doesn’t forget it’s a pub, but notches up the standards.

He delivers a well-rendered Caramelised Pork Belly ($25) with Asian ‘slaw; Crisp School Prawns ($10) that won’t damage your mouth; and great Chicken Liver Pate ($11) with house-made chutney. There’s also a smart, underpriced cocktail list with a Salted Coconut Espresso Martini ($14), plus an Enomatic wine pouring system – great when you need a big glass of Pichot Vouvray Sec ($13/150ml glass, $21/225ml glass).

287 Military Road, Cremorne 9909 8888 minskyshotel.com.au Pub Bistro, Cocktails,Wine $$-$$$

FOOD NEWS After practically swearing off soft drinks this summer, I pretty much had to eat my words.

Loading up on duty-free alcohol after spending some much needed down time on a Pacific island, I was delighted to discover the Fever-Tree range of mixers. My Hellyers Road Single Malt Whisky was neatly balanced by the simple FeverTree Dry Ginger Ale. My Plymouth Gin and tonic was perfected using Fever-Tree Premium Indian Tonic Water. In fact the whole Fever-Tree range manages to use premium ingredients to make a bunch of mixers that showcase whatever highend spirits you decide to combine with them.

They’re the first truly adult mixers I’ve tried, so it’s little wonder I’m seeing them popping up in smart cocktail bars all over Sydney too! I buy mine from Annandale Cellars... www.fever-tree.com

BAR FLY

THE HIDE

Upstairs at The Hide, I just wanted to roll around on the floor in the animal skins and get all tactile. Instead, I settled for a bit of dancing on them. “The music is good here,” the Bar Bloke had texted me when he was first to arrive. So it wasn’t just the elegant whisky cocktails and bottle of Evoi Cabernet Blend 2010 that got me on my feet. The playlist at The Hide, was indeed good; a little bit rock’n’roll, which swings well with the two-thirds Gentlemen’s Club/one-third rock’n’roll – leather, velvet, feathers - lair. The Hide wine bar is a sexy space - warm and cosy, yet cosmopolitan; like a glass of great red, that has fruit and spice up front, but carries a long finish, it wraps you in its arms and doesn’t let go.

Level 1,The Flinders Hotel, 63-65 Flinders Street, Darlinghurst (02) 9356 3633 facebook.com/TheHideDarlinghurst

By Rebecca Varidel

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Photo: Stephen Reinhardt

HEAVEN HELP US! For Hilt, a play about the toll urban living can take on individuals and relationships, there could be no better venue than the Old 505 Theatre. A converted warehouse space in Surry Hills, which provides a particularly intimate experience for both performers and audience.

“I knew I wanted to do a show at 505,” says director Dominic Mercer, and when the opportunity arose, “this one came straight to mind.”

The play, in Mercer’s words, asks its audience to “reflect on how easy it is to disconnect when we’re stacked on top of one another,” by placing them in such close quarters. They are simultaneously connected to and disconnected from the actors performing around them – a paradoxical experience all too familiar for the average Sydney-sider.

This reboot of Jane Brodie’s play, written 19 years ago and performed previously in both Australia and the UK, comes at a particularly

timely moment for Mercer.

The subject matter has, in his eyes, “only become more of an issue” in recent years, as urban rental and property prices continue to skyrocket, lending a sense of stall to the lives of young city-dwellers, romantically, professionally and personally.

A must-see for all citydwellers whose Facebook relationship status reads: “It’s Complicated.” (SW) March 12-30, Old 505 Theatre, Suite 505, 342 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills, $18-28, trybooking.com

HILT

a&e

SEVEN KILOMETRES NORTH EAST Do the realities of today always reflect the truth of the past?

Kym Vercoe explores the ideas of conflicting interpretations of history and genocide denial through her deeply moving production, Seven Kilometres North East.

Based on her personal travels to Bosnia, Vercoe investigates the war-torn past of the tragic country, and how true history has been buried in denial.

“The story explores my return to Bosnia and my desire to acknowledge the forgotten victims of the war, and my efforts to understand the complexities of creating a shared history,” says Vercoe.

The production uses visually and aurally immersive staging, lighting, music and Dragon have announced their Trilogy Tour which honours the three distinct ages that define the rise of one of Australia’s most iconic rock bands. They include The young years (from 1973 to 1979), the glory years (from 1982 to 1998) and the phoenix

video to aesthetically express the difficult journey of discovering the truth.

“As a result, the work is a constant juxtaposition of the beauty and the horror.

Also, how we can see places of beauty in a different light when we come to fully understand the history there,” says Vercoe.

Whilst it is a dark story, Seven Kilometres North East is also a very human one that all audiences will be able to relate to.

“I always feel like this performance is a conversation in my lounge-room; a dialogue I am having with my audience.

An audience that laughs and cries on the journey with me.” (SO) Mar 8-22, Seymour Centre, City Rd & Cleveland St, $25-33+bf, seymourcentre.com years (from 2006 onwards).

For the first time Dragon is hitting the road to commemorate these three ages and will perform over 25 shows in metro and regional areas between March and June 2014.

DRAGON

Photo: Heidrun Lohr

Heaven Help Us! is many things. The new play written and directed by Keith Bosler is at once a comedy and a love story.

It is also a story of redemption and temptations, good and evil, where God and the Devil battle it out for the future of mankind.

Above all though, Bosler says it is about fun.

“It’s entirely about the audience. It’s about giving them a fun night out, a good night’s entertainment,” he says.

The play centres on a materialistic lawyer named Luke Allcock (Tai Scrivener), who’s life begins to unravel when he finds himself the subject of a bet between God and the Devil.

“The thought popped into my head one day. What would it be like if God had gone on holidays for the last 2000 years?” Bosler says.

Luke is tempted by the Devil and his sexy demon, while falling in love with an angel named Michaela (Orlena Steele-Prior) who happens to be the Archangel Michael after a sex change.

The show has a solid cast of local actors including Lyn Pierse, veteran of Theatresports and improvisation.

“The roles were mostly written for the fabulous cast we have assembled, before they even knew about it,” Bosler says.(SM) Mar 12-29, Bordello Theatre, Level 4, Kings Cross Hotel, Kings Cross, heavenhelpus.com.au

The current line-up of the band includes Todd Hunter, Mark Williams, Pete Drummond and Bruce Reid. Founder and bass player, Todd Hunter says they are methodical about the upcoming tour.

“We’re dividing it into three parts and delving into each of those three line-ups of the songs that came out then,” he says.

“Closer to the tour we’ll get something on Facebook to see if anyone wants to request any songs.”

The ARIA Hall of Fame inductees have been playing great music for over 40 years and have no plans to stop.

“We want to keep playing anywhere,” says Hunter. “If you come to a Dragon show, expect to sing your heart out!” (CT) Mar 7, The Bridge Hotel, 119 Victoria Rd, Rozelle, $35, (02) 9810 1260, ticketek.com.au

GANESH VERSUS THE THIRD REICH

It’s surreal, yet somehow unsurprising, that a 2012 Helpmann Award-winning play about the Hindu god Ganesh travelling through Nazi Germany to reclaim the swastika was conceived and performed by the Back to Back Theatre from Geelong, Victoria.

Ganesh Versus the Third Reich, a heartwarming yet disarming play about life’s difficulties and overcoming obstacles, will make its Sydney debut at Carriageworks after an international tour.

The work has two simultaneous narratives.

The first being elephant-headed Ganesh’s journey through Nazi Germany to reclaim the auspicious ancient Hindu symbol of the swastika, after its appropriation and misuse

by Hitler. The other narrative is that of actors in a theatre company exploring the

20 STAGE 22 SCENE 25 SCREEN 26 SOUNDS

ethics and politics of appropriating cultural symbols.

“There’s an edge of the seat poignancy to the work of the ensemble,” says Alice Gerlach, Back to Back Theatre’s Marketing & Development Manager.

“There are many layers to the ownership of symbols and their power and the actors deal with these issues with integrity and respect of the potential controversy.”

Back to Back Theatre comprises actors whom are perceived to have intellectual disabilities and Gerlach says, “This gives the company an outsider’s eye on things and a keen sense for the issues of our time.”

(CN) Mar 12-15, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson St, Redfern, $35, carriageworks.com.au

Arts Editor: Leigh Livingstone Music Editor: Chelsea Deeley

For more A&E stories go to www.altmedia.net.au

Contributors: Alexandra English, Alexis Talbot-Smith, Angela Stretch, Anita Senaratna, Cheryl Northey, Ciaran Tobin, Craig Coventry, Elise Cullen, Georgia Fullerton, Greg Webster, Hannah Chapman, Jamie Apps, Jemma Nott, Leann Richards, Lena Zak, Lisa Ginnane, Lyndsay Kenwright, Marilyn Hetreles, Mark Morellini, Mel Somerville, Melody Teh, Michael Muir, Michelle Porter, Nerida Lindsay, Nick Hadland, Olga Azar, Paul Gregoire, Rhys Gard, Rocio Belinda Mendez, Ruth Fogarty, Sean May, Sharon Ye, Shauna O’Carroll, Siri Williams, Tom Wilson,Vanessa Powell

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Photo: Michael Francis

Life can be utterly unpredictable, and starting and raising a family can be both a rewarding and terrifying experience.

Insomniac Theatre explores the joys and difficulties of parenting in their poignant comedic production of Motherhood Out Loud.

The production is a series of skits that portray all the beautiful, hilarious and downright crazy moments of raising a family, says director and producer Maggie Scott.

“It’s not a cutesy look at motherhood, all rosy with rose-coloured glasses on, it shows you the downsides too,” she says.

Premiering in Australia after a hugely successful run in the United States, Motherhood Out Loud is a fiercely real and honest portrayal of the changing families in society.

“It has a bit of everything, same sex family, adopted family, blended family. There are not just nuclear families anymore, there are many different mixes,” she says.

The production uses simple monologues and staging to express the evolving experience of life, from birth all the way to becoming a great grandparent.

“It goes from childbirth to the first day at school, to grandparents and everything in between, and lets not forget the obnoxious teenagers!” she says.

This unique and relatable show promises to make audiences laugh and tug at the heartstrings. (SO) Mar 19-Apr 6, The Exchange Hotel Balmain, 94 Beattie St, Balmain $18-25, trybooking.com/70560

THE WINTER’S TALE

Photo: Prue Vercoe

THE DROWSY CHAPERONE

MOTHERHOOD OUT LOUD

In association with Hayes Theatre Co, Squabbalogic announces the Tony Award-winning show, The Drowsy Chaperone. Set in a New York apartment, this “small quirky ensemble show” reveals the tale of a die-hard musical theatre fan who plays his favourite Broadway cast album on his turntable. The musical literally bursts to life in his living room and is transformed into an impressive Broadway set.

Director Jay James-Moody guarantees a “contemporary tonguein-cheek musical as well as a very funny old-fashioned musical within one show.”

An energetic production like this being performed at the new Hayes

THEATRE &

PERFORMANCE FALSETTOS A husband leaves his wife and son for another man - this piece of musical theatre is certainly no conventional affair.

The quirky tale about family and moving forward which is performed entirely in song won a litany of Tony Awards when it was first performed on Broadway in 1992. Falsettos will be the first show for Darlinghurst Theatre Company

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The Winter’s Tale’s main plot was originally taken from Robert Greene’s pastoral romance Pandosto, published in 1588, and is one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known plays. John Bell’s production stars Myles Pollard, Helen Thompson, Rory Potter and also newcomer Liana Cornell (Love Child, Schapelle) who says, “This play is both a tragedy and a comedy, shown from the perspective of the child Mamillius”.

Set in Sicily and told in two parts, the first involves King Leontes who wrongly accuses his pregnant wife Hermione of adultery and throws her in jail. When the baby Perdita arrives, the King forces Hermione to abandon her into the wild, but this doesn’t quite go to plan.

The second half of the play reunites us with the lost child

Theatre Co Potts Point location, provides a much more intimate theatrical experience for the audience.

The Drowsy Chaperone debuted in Toronto in 1998 and opened in Broadway in 2006. In 2014, this show “Looks at a type of musical from a time gone by in a very affectionate way,” says James-Moody who plays the role of Carrie.

Jay James-Moody promises an amazing intimate show with a starstudded cast of Sydney’s finest musical talent. (CT) Mar 14-Apr 6, Hayes Theatre Co, 19 Greenknowe Ave, Potts Point, $30-48, hayestheatre.com.au

this season.

Renowned theatre director Stephen Colyer leads a talented cast, including Tamlyn Henderson (We Will Rock You, Les Misérables), Katrina Retallick (Dirty Rotten Scoundrels,The Addams Family) and Stephen Anderson (Swan Lake, Dead Man Walking).

The poised mix of comedy and drama is performed over a live piano score created by William Finn and based on the book written by Finn and James Lapine. (RG) Until Mar 16, Eternity Playhouse,

39 Burton St, Darlinghurst, $30-43, (02) 8356 9987, darlinghursttheatre.com JUMP FOR JORDAN goes some of the way to explain what it is like to be part of the mosaic of cultures that make up Australia. It centres on Sophie (played by Alice Ansara), an independent Arab-Australian woman who must lie about her life, career and Aussie boyfriend for fear of shaming her traditional Jordanian family.

Director Iain Sinclair was attracted to the relatability of the

script (written by Donna Arebla).

Much of the cast are of Arab descent and Sinclair says it is not so much a work in progress, but rather a live reflection on the experiences of secondgeneration women. Women who not only cope with the typical work-life-family-balance, but whom also negotiate clashing cultures.

“I can’t think of the last time I saw Arabic women on stage just being themselves,” says Sinclair.

(ATS) Until Mar 29, SBW Stables

Theatre, 10 Nimrod St, Kings Cross, $49, 9361 3817, griffintheatre.com.au TRAVELLING NORTH An ageing couple flee Melbourne’s cold for the warmer far North Queensland and a change of lifestyle, but Frank is soon beset by heart-problems and Frances has to deal with possessive, needy daughters.

Written in 1979, it’s sometimes assumed to be about writer David Williamson’s move to Sydney; in fact it’s about the experiences of his mother-in-law,

who is unaware of her royal lineage. She and her partner Florizel strangely end up back at the King’s court, meeting King Leontes. Their identities are unveiled and themes of compassion, forgiveness and reconciliation come into play.

Cornell, whose dream it was to perform in this play, says, “John Bell is a dream. He is the kindest, most intelligent and patient man who consistently sees the play as a whole. He is pleasant to work with and has no ego. I learnt from everyone. It’s a strong ensemble play, especially in comparison to Richard III or Hamlet, and this is made more prominent due to John Bell’s choice of dual casting in our production.” (LK) Mar 5-29, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, $35-79, (02) 9250 7777, sydneyoperahouse.com

a gentle and perceptive woman who’d remarried to an older man – an opinionated, intelligent, ex-Communist.

The concept of the ‘grey nomad’ is now an established one but “. . .living in paradise isn’t quite enough without having a social context of friends, families and meaningful activities to fill in the time,” says Williamson. (MM) Until Mar 22, Sydney Theatre Company, Pier 4/5, Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay, $50-85, 9250 1777, sydneytheatre.com.au

THE NAKED CITY

BOWLING FOR DINNERTIME

By Coffin Ed, Miss Death & Jay Katz We were interested to read in last week’s Alt Media that The Standard music venue at Taylor Square was about to downsize its live entertainment roster and install a four-lane bowling alley, whilst still keeping some music on board. Given the recent closure of a number of well-known music clubs like Blue Beat and Notes, it’s an ‘innovation’ that should not be taken lightly.

The idea, of course, is not a new one and the venue acknowledges that the inspiration came from the legendary Brooklyn Bowl in New York. The U.S. is home to a number of these rock’n’bowl-style venues with New Orleans’s Mid City Lanes (aka the Rock’n’Bowl) equally as famous as its New York counterpart. New Orleans in particular has led the way with these kinds of dual-purpose venues and for many years uptown’s iconic Maple Leaf Bar featured a fully functional laundromat.

It was not unusual for punters to arrive on any weeknight, complete with a big bag of dirty washing. As the aroma of soapsuds drifted throughout the bar you could while away an hour listening to the likes of pianist James Booker, whilst your undies bounced around merrily in the spin cycle.

Whether we will ever encounter a combined music/laundromat venue in Sydney remains to be seen, but it’s an interesting concept that needs to be explored – indeed the whole idea of multipurpose live music venues makes a great deal of sense, given the tenuous

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nature of the current live music scene.

Already we have seen initiatives such as Glebe’s Record Crate - a restaurant/ bar/record shop/comedy club/live music venue - that rolls it all into one very cosy all-purpose establishment.

The greater Sydney area is now home to a plethora of small bars, all competing for the fickle small bar dollar and reaching a point of almost saturation. Whilst their proliferation is most welcome they may well need to look at diversification in the near future, as $15 cocktails become harder to unload and their overall novelty wears off.

We see no reason why many of these funky small bars could not become agents for Australia Post, offering a limited number of after hours services with jiffy bags and mailing boxes sharing the shelves with the usual imported beers. Dog grooming, yoga classes, video rentals, mini golf and a night spa could all be added, given available space, and an inclusion that would not detract from the normal intimate atmosphere.

Naturally our very progressive Sydney City Council would have to expand bar licenses to allow an almost endless range of additional commercial ventures but we can easily see the once lowkey neighbourhood bar becoming the community’s all-inclusive one-stop shop.

The laundromat addition is certainly worth immediate consideration with the motto that cleanliness is next to grooviness. Imagine a small bar/ laundromat happy hour where you could get a bag wash, imported beer of your choice and a plate of tapas all for $20 with free valet parking for your Vespa. Bring it on we say!

TALKING THROUGH YOUR ARTS BIMBLEBOX ART PROJECT A certain Queensland mining magnate ruffled more than a few feathers in 2011 when he reputedly said about an endangered species - “Fortunately, the black-throated finch has wings and can fly.”

With few exceptions, Australia’s 900 bird species are endemic to our island continent.

Queensland’s Bimblebox Nature Reserve is semi-arid woodland and a near 8,000-hectare wildlife sanctuary for 153 species of birds. A group of concerned citizens purchased the land in 2000, to ensure its range of ecosystems would be preserved. An agreement with the state Government was signed in 2003 to form part of the National Reserve System of Protected Areas.

Despite these measures it does not protect the land from mining.

It was in December last year Federal Minister for the Environment Greg Hunt approved Clive Palmer’s mega-mine Galilee Coal Project, aka China First. The impact of the proposed mine would inflict the largest devastation known to our Nature Reserves. Any challenge to this decision is met with further complications as the Abbott Government together with Labor introduced a new law in December, prior to Minister Hunt’s announcement, that makes it even more difficult to overturn.

An activist art collective was formed by a diverse group of artists in 2012. The Bimblebox Art Project is a creative initiative to give a public focus to the impending threat, both locally to the environment and to the carbon emissions that would be generated by the exporting of thermal coal. The group are undergoing a touring exhibition that will feature works on paper, painting, artist books, digital storytelling and sound.

Bimblebox 153 Birds Project is under development and seeking supportive participation from printmakers, artists, poets, writers, scientists, academics, composers, sound artists and musicians.

Participants will be allocated with one of the 153 birds in

threat. Their contributing artwork will then be produced in collaboration with other complementing artistry to form an exhibitive presentation that represents each of the 153 birds.

In another exhibition opening this week MILS Gallery features a collection of personal archives from an undisclosed friend of the gallerys. In Clive Palmer Found Archives (1963-2001): Heart of the Ocean, visitors are privy to Mr Palmer’s obsessive passion for the tragedy of the Titanic. The gallery’s note of disclaimer quite rightly declares that the exhibition is purely for the public interest and that it is not their intention to publicly ‘attack’ or ‘shame’ Mr Clive Frederick Palmer. (AS) Bimblebox 153 Birds Projects, bimbleboxartproject. wordpress.com/bimblebox-birds-printmaking-project/ Clive Palmer Found Archives (1963-2001): Heart of the Ocean, Mar 7-23, Mils Gallery, 15 Randle Ln, Surry Hills, milsgallery.com

‘Black-throated Finch’ by Emma Lindsay, 2012

LIFE CAPTURED - ELENI NAKOPOULOS

Elephant - Eleni Nakopoulos

Thought-provoking artist Eleni Nakopoulos will exhibit her artworks entitled Life Captured at the Danks Street Art Gallery in Sydney.

Most of the exhibition will be centered around the ethical and moral debate of keeping animals in captivity.

Nakopoulos says that the idea first came to her when she took her son to the zoo.

“I took my son to the zoo and every time we went it would always feel eerie and uncomfortable. The experience provoked the feeling that these animals should be roaming in the wild and not held in captivity,” she says.

Nakopoloulos added that much of her work was also inspired by

recent news events.

“People are killing giraffes in public and now they are killing sharks and it just made me think – ‘what are we doing?’” she says.

The exhibition Life Captured is designed to encapsulate the concept that the way we are treating animals is wrong, by displaying them in their natural environment.

“I tried to show the beauty of the animal and not the captivity.

Although, you can see an element of the captivity, I tried to portray that animals deserve to be here on this planet, just as we do,” says Nakopoulos. (JN) Until Mar 15, Depot II Gallery, 2 Danks St, Waterloo, free, 2danksstreet.com.au

DESIRE - PETER BAKA Dolls evoke childhood and innocence, but for Peter Baka, they embody carnality and dissonance.

Desire is the name of the artist’s new exhibition at Robin Gibson Gallery. It is a show of quirky, emotive intelligence.

Take for example, the ceramic figures nailed to the wall with their innards surgically removed to display movies and oddments. White Dress, a female form with a teacup hat and ballerina inserted in her abdomen is a telling portrayal of femininity, whilst her neighbour, I Like to Photograph Girls Naked, is the

male counterpart, complete with phallic camera. Together the couple illustrate the ying and yang qualities of gender.

The statues are complemented by a series of green silhouettes made of copper and wood.

Each piece is a story of love, urgency, jealousy and betrayal.

An exposition that is confronting yet comforting, Desire is an adventure in playful and provocative artistic discourse. (LR) Until Mar 19, Robin Gibson Gallery , 278 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst, robingibson.net

‘White Dress’ by Peter Baka

25TH ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL

French cinema has never been more popular in Australia and The Alliance Française French Film Festival returns celebrating its 25th anniversary with sophisticated and vibrant new cinema from France. It will showcase a selection of contemporary films including comedies, dramas and documentaries.

This is the biggest foreign film festival in Australia and admissions escalate annually as moviegoers are increasingly mesmerised by French culture.

The festival boasts forty-six features of which only six have been screened publicly.

A variety of genres is one of the main characteristics of French cinema which allures audiences.

Bright Days Ahead is a romantic comedy exploring an older woman/younger man relationship and The Finishers is an emotional sporting feature about a wheelchair-bound teenager.

Jappeloup is the inspiring true story of an Olympic victory by a man and his horse and La Monique, A Caledonian Wound is an outstanding documentary revisiting the mysterious disappearance of a passenger liner in1953.

Families will be delighted by Kiddies’ Korner, a selection of live and animated shorts and highly-anticipated Belle And Sebastian, the heart warming story of a boy and his dog set against

the backdrop of World War II. (MM) March 4-23, Palace Norton Street, 99 Norton St, Leichhardt; Palace Verona, 17 Oxford St, Paddington; Chauvel Cinema, Oxford St & Oatley Rd, Paddington; Hayden Orpheum, 380 Military Rd, Cremorne, $15-19.50, affrenchfilmfestival.org

All Is Lost stars Robert Redford in his most demanding role to date, as a man lost at sea after his sailboat is damaged by a floating shipping container.

Without navigational or communication systems he manages to skilfully survive the elements but as food and water diminish, so does the prospect of survival.

Redford delivers a tremendous performance in this riveting and incredible story of one man’s endurance when all hope is lost. He plays the sole character and speaks few lines, but conveys the desperation and hopelessness effectively through facial expressions.

Only a high-calibre actor could successfully carry this unique film without losing momentum.

The escalating tension will have audiences at the edge of their seats as the ultimate battle against the mighty sea is bravely fought. (MM) WWWW

WOLF CREEK 2

NEED FOR SPEED Need For Speed is a fast-paced and visually stunning action drama loosely based on the popular series of video games.

The story surrounds Tobey Marshall (Aaron Paul), a street racer who is released from jail for a crime he didn’t commit and races interstate intent on retribution.

The low-calibre cast and cheesiness of this unoriginal and outlandish script don’t detract from the enjoyment, as moviegoers are constantly on the edge of their seats.

GLORIA is a movie about a lady who’s determined to defy old age and re-establish happiness and romance in her empty life.

Gloria (Paulina Garcìa) is a 58-year-old divorcee, has two grown children and attends singles’ parties hoping to find love. She meets Rodolfo (Sergio Hernàndez) but problems arise, as the bond he shares with his exwife and daughters is suffocating.

Gloria is initially engaging, but stagnates in the second half owing to a sudden change in direction and a story which lacks substance. (MM) WW½

The explosive, action-packed, octane-charged car racing sequences and death defying stunts deliver an exhilarating and satisfying film.

Need For Speed is quintessentially a re-working of the phenomenally successful Fast & Furious franchise. The incredible popularity of these video games and car culture films should transform this into an enormous hit ensuing a sequel. (MM) WWW

NEBRASKA is a look at life close to death in the backwaters of America’s Midwest.

Woody Grant (Bruce Dern) plays an aged alcoholic who keeps trying to walk from Montana to Nebraska. Eventually his son David (Will Forte) agrees to drive him.

The characters often teeter on the edge of senility, as well as between humour and sadness. At times the plot meanders and stagnates like the thread of an octogenarian’s well-told story, but has some wonderful moments. (HC) WWW

ALL IS LOST

HANNAH ARENDT

This biographical drama set between 1961-1964 revolves around German philosopher Hannah Arendt, who covered the trial of Nazi war criminal Adolf Eichmann in Jerusalem for The New Yorker publication.

Arendt was Jewish and her misconstrued and “scandalous” ideologies created worldwide controversy, labelling her a Nazi sympathiser and traitor to her own race.

Actress Barbara Sukowa brilliantly portrays the complex and compelling Hannah Arendt, recreating her icy arrogance and hidden WINTER’S TALE is a fantasy drama set in New York spanning over two different time periods. The story revolves around master thief Peter Lake’s (Colin Farrell) strong love for dying heiress Beverly Penn (Jessica Brown Findlay).

Even an enchanting musical score, beautiful cinematography and respectable performances from Farrell and Findlay fails to ignite this bizarre tale of destiny, miracles, magic and the battle between good and evil.

A stellar cast in supporting roles also fails to compensate, as questionable storytelling

vulnerabilities. Original black and white footage of the trial containing disturbing testimonies from survivors is skillfully edited into the film, increasing the intensity, and it chillingly restores Eichmann to life.

Spoken in English and German, Hannah Arendt effectively revisits the darkest legal case in history as Eichmann incredibly takes no responsibility for orchestrating the mass murder of Jews, claiming he was “simply doing his job”. (MM) Limited release. Dendy Opera Quays. WWW½ techniques and complexities in the screenplay deliver a film that is drawn out and perplexing. (MM) WW½ LONE SURVIVOR In 2005 a four-man team of US Navy Seals are tasked with hunting a Taliban leader deep in Afghanistan hostile territory but when their cover is blown they find themselves vastly outnumbered and in a vicious firefight.

Based on Marcus Luttrell’s true account of the same name, the filmmakers (surprise, surprise) have been criticised for taking liberties with the story.

What’s left is a very visceral

After nine years of eager anticipation John Jarratt reprises his role of psychotic outback tourist serial killer Mick Taylor.

This time around the film doesn’t wait to throw the audience into the action with Mick unleashing his violence in the opening scene. Unlike the original, this film focuses more on the chase and victim/ killer interaction rather than increasing tension. As a result the sequel has much more action with big, well directed,

and confronting account of a fight for survival. (MMu) WWW DALLAS BUYERS CLUB Based on a true story, Matthew McConaughey stars as a damaged rodeo cowboy (Ron Woodroof) in 1985, who has contracted HIV. In his downright refusal to die, he researches alternative medicine and opens a clinic in Mexico with the help of unlikely ally and transvestite Rayon (Jared Leto).

This is a brutally honest portrayal of the severity of the disease and its reception by the public in the 1980s, along with Ron’s personal journey and growth.

albeit outlandish, chase scenes.

Once again Jarratt plays the Mick Taylor character wonderfully and is very well supported by Ryan Corr as his primary victim.

With the exception of the final scenes in Mick’s lair, the lack of intense emotional interplay between characters, something which made the original so disturbing and scary, means that Wolf Creek 2 falls a little flat. (JA) WWW

There are amazing performances by both of these actors in a sad but inspiring tale. (LK) WWWW½ BLUE IS THE WARMEST COLOR The life of Adèle (Adèle Exarchopoulos) changes when she meets Emma (Léa Seydoux), a young woman with blue hair.

The two young women embark on a passionate love-affair.

Blue is the Warmest Color is a worthwhile, moving film that is gathering acclaim worldwide.

However it could have been told in half the time. (MMu) WW½

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CELEBRATING THE WORKS OF KATE MCGARRIGLE – SING ME THE SONGS If music is the language of the soul and the heart, this complilation gives the listener a very accurate measure of Kate McGarrigle and her sister Anna’s souls. Sing Me the Songs is a little over two hours of their replicated music by some very talented musicians.These contributors evoke the sisters’ thoughts, depths and passions with songs like Talk to Me, Mendocino and Heart Like a Wheel.

Talents such as Norah Jones, with McGarrigle’s children, Rufus and Martha Wainwright, collaborate in varying combinations and styles.They bring a rich and full sound to the McGarrigle family’s beautiful catalogue to aid cancer care and research. (SP)

BRETON - WAR ROOM STORIES War Room Stories is the latest offering from South-London fivepiece Breton. Recorded in Berlin, the album is nothing less than you’d expect from the delightful combo of five strapping English lads and the cultural capital of Europe – it’s energetic, fresh and experimental. Opening track Envy is poppy and immediately catchy, whereas S Four is glitchy and hypnotic with the vocals reminiscent of Yannis Philippakis (Foals).

The album features an interesting array of tunes – from upbeat tempos to grimy electronica, and shows Breton’s willingness for experimentation and refusal to be pigeon-holed.The only downfall is the album lacks cohesiveness as a whole. (SY)

The idea that the audience can literally invest in an artist’s work has been slowly gaining momentum over the last few years. Performers such as Eskimo Joe, Calling All Cars, Kate Miller-Heidke and Melbourne singer-songwriter Lior Attar have all used websites such as Pozible and PledgeMusic to raise the necessary funds to embark on their next musical project.

“I had heard about the crowd-sourcing model for a while but it wasn’t something that appealed to me right away,” admits Attar, whose latest soulful collection Scattered Reflections was a product of such funding.

“But it did more than just ask people to buy into [my] album, it also enabled [me] to communicate with [my] audience and offer them things that they wouldn’t normally be able to access. It just felt right to me.”

He continues, “With the whole changing of technology I think it’s now

LIVE WIRE Gold Panda: He has a pretty extensive list of collaborative projects on his resume, but this week Derwin Schlecker will be gracing audiences with his London charm completely solo. Hailing from Peckham, Schlecker has dabbled in a range of electronic genres, including dubstep, chillwave and ambient throughout seven EPs and two studio albums Lucky Shiner & Half of Where You Live. This night will see elements of all of these works wash over the mind, wave after wave.

Thu, Mar 6th, Oxford Art Factory, Darlinghurst.

more about community and engaging with your audience.”

Inherently optimistic and fascinated by fellow human beings, Attar took time out to experience the world for its true beauty – allowing himself to be inspired by the individuals and their insights.

“About half of the album I wrote here and then half of it I wrote overseas together with a guitarist called Cameron Deyell. He was living in India at the time and we just travelled around there and wrote music as we went. Then we did a trip through parts of Europe and wrote music there too,” he says.

“I really believe that being away from your comfort zone and travel in general is a really great stimulant to write.”

Writing music for his own personal outfit is just one of the many pots that Attar has dipped his metaphorical paintbrush in. Working with legendary

composer Nigel Westlake as well as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra has meant that this musical man is constantly creating. However, it’s his latest album that churns out personal anecdotes and enchanting melodies everyone can resonate with.

“It’s interesting, on this album I have a song called My Grandfather and it’s a very personal account of my own grandfather,” he details. “I was worried that people wouldn’t be interested in it, so I wasn’t actually going to put it out. But I had played it live a couple of times and I found people did manage to use it as a sort of window into their own memories of their grandparents.

I’d actually struck upon a pretty universal theme and feeling.” (CD) Mar 7, York Theatre, Seymour Centre, City Rd & Cleveland St, Chippendale, $45.80+bf, seymourcentre.com ‘Scattered Reflections’ released March 7th

Sydney Live Music Guide

Dragon: This band has been around for so long that they have three separate eras to signpost their existence. Coming from the ‘Young Years’ (1973-1977), through the ‘Glory Years’ (1982-1998) to the current ‘Phoenix Years’ (from 2006 and beyond), the band’s current line up of Todd Hunter, Mark Williams, Pete Drummond and Bruce Reid will use this night to showcase what has kept these rock ‘n’ roll icons relevant for over forty years.

Fri, Mar 7th,The Bridge Hotel, Rozelle

Barry Leef Band: This night will be a chance to see a musician who has dabbled in many different realms, as well as play host to plenty of hits from the classic and west coast rock scene. Pumping out tunes from the likes of Steely Dan,The Doobie Brothers and Robben Ford; Leef will be joined by Peter Northcote, James Gillard, Garry Steel and Richard Harvey. It will be a night of moves and grooves, with a never-ending supply of refreshments to feign the confidence for busting said moves.

Sat, Mar 8th, Randwick Labour Club, Alison Rd.

Dan Sultan: Patience is a virtue; at least that’s what fans of this legendary Aussie singer/songwriter have had to practice. The ARIA award-winning muso and his signature style dubbed “country soul rock ‘n’ roll” will be gracing the stage to perform some of his beloved back-catalogue tunes. These include last year’s lone single Under Your Skin. Building up a strong desire for his next full-length album, this show will undoubtedly quench the thirst of those overwhelmed with anticipation.

Sun, Mar 9th,The Metro,Town Hall.

LIOR

Tom Botting: A delicious collection of original compositions, this bassist is gaining quite a reputation within the local jazz scene.

Tonight will be the first time that Botting has acted as bandleader for Jazzgroove, a position in which he will no doubt excel as a man who strives to find melody in many different locations.

Hannah James will join him with her buddies Casey Golden and Ed Rodrigues to bedazzle everyone with their contemporary piano format in anticipation for their own brand new recording.

Tue, Mar 11, Foundry616, Ultimo.

Roberto Fonseca: All the way from Cuba, it’s evident that heritage plays a magnificent part in this man’s musical endeavours.

Fonseca blends electronic elements with acoustic vibes and snippets inspired

by African roots, to create an awe-inspiring sound that knows no boundaries.

His previous album YO was praised widely around the world, and now it’s Australia’s turn to behold the wondrous mind of this pianist. (CD) Wed, Mar 12th, The Basement, Circular Quay.

FREEWILLASTROLOGY

by Rob Brezsny

a

ARIES (March 21-April 19): Are you between jobs?

Between romantic partners?

Between secure foundations and clear mandates and reasons to get up each morning?

Probably at least one of the above. Foggy whirlwinds may be your intimate companions.

Being up-in-the-air could be your customary vantage point.

During your stay in this weird vacationland, please abstain from making conclusions about its implications for your value as a human being. Remember these words from author Terry Braverman: “It is important to detach our sense of self-worth from transitional circumstances, and maintain perspective on who we are by enhancing our sense of ‘self-mirth.’” Whimsy and levity can be your salvation, Aries. *Lucky flux* should be your mantra.

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TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma once came to the home of computer pioneer Steve Jobs and performed a private concert. Jobs was deeply touched, and told Ma, “Your playing is the best argument I’ve ever heard for the existence of God, because I don’t really believe a human alone can do this.” Judging from the current astrological omens, Taurus, I’m guessing you will soon experience an equivalent

phenomenon: a transcendent expression of love or beauty that moves you to suspect that magic is afoot. Even if you are an atheist, you are likely to feel the primal shiver that comes from having a close brush with enchantment.

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GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In my dream, I was leading a pep rally for a stadium full of Geminis. “Your intensity brings you great pleasure,” I told them over the public address system. “You seek the company of people who love you to be inspired. You must be appreciated for your enthusiasm, never shamed.

Your drive for excellence doesn’t stress you out, it relaxes you.

I hereby give you license to laugh even louder and sing even stronger and think even smarter.” By now the crowd was cheering and I was bellowing.

“It’s not cool to be cool,” I exulted. “It’s cool to be burning with a white-hot lust for life. You are rising to the next octave.

You are playing harder than you have ever played.”

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CANCER (June 21-July 22): “My old paintings no longer interest me,” said the prolific artist Pablo Picasso when he was 79 years old. “I’m much more curious about those I haven’t done yet.” I realize it might be controversial for me to suggest that you adopt a similar perspective, Cancerian. After all, you are renowned for being a connoisseur of old stories and past glories. One of your specialties is to keep memories

alive and vibrant by feeding them with your generous love.

To be clear, I don’t mean that you should apologize for or repress those aptitudes. But for now -- say, the next three weeks -- I invite you to turn your attention toward the exciting things you haven’t done yet.

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LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I recommend that you sleep with a special someone whose dreams you’d like to blend with yours. And when I say “sleep with,” I mean it literally; it’s not a euphemism for “having sex with.” To be clear: Making love with this person is fine if that’s what you both want. But my main point is that you will draw unexpected benefits from lying next to this companion as you both wander through the dreamtime. Being in your altered states together will give you inspiration you can’t get any other way. You won’t be sharing information on a conscious level, but that’s exactly the purpose: to be transformed together by what’s flowing back and forth between your deeper minds. For extra credit, collaborate on incubating a dream. Read this: http://tinyurl. com/dreamincubation.

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VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “One chord is fine,” said rock musician Lou Reed about his no-frills approach to writing songs. “Two chords are pushing it. Three chords and you’re into jazz.” I recommend his perspective to you in the coming weeks, Virgo. Your

detail-oriented appreciation of life’s complexity is one of your finest qualities, but every once in a while -- like now -- you can thrive by stripping down to the basics. This will be especially true about your approach to intimate relationships. For the time being, just assume that cultivating simplicity will generate the blessings you need most.

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LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You Librans haven’t received enough gifts, goodies, and compliments lately. For reasons I can’t discern, you have been deprived of your rightful share. It’s not fair!

What can you do to rectify this imbalance in the cosmic ledger?

How can you enhance your ability to attract the treats you deserve? It’s important that we solve this riddle, since you are entering a phase when your wants and needs will expand and deepen. Here’s what I can offer: I hereby authorize you to do whatever it takes to entice everyone into showering you with bounties, boons, and bonuses. To jumpstart this process, shower yourself with bounties, boons, and bonuses.

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SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “The art of living is more like wrestling than dancing,” wrote the Roman philosopher Marcus Aurelius more than 1,800 years ago. Is that true for you, Scorpio? Do you experience more strenuous struggle and grunting exertion than frisky exuberance? Even

if that’s usually the case, I’m guessing that in the coming weeks your default mode should be more akin to dancing than wrestling. The cosmos has decided to grant you a grace period -- on one condition, that is: You must agree to experiment more freely and have more fun that you normally allow yourself.

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): For the itch you are experiencing, neither chamomile nor aloe vera will bring you relief.

Nor would over-the-counter medications like calamine lotion. No, Sagittarius. Your itch isn’t caused by something as tangible as a rash or hives, and can’t be soothed by any obvious healing agent. It is, shall we say, more in the realm of a soul itch -- a prickly tickle that is hard to diagnose, let alone treat. I’m guessing that there may be just one effective cure: Become as still and quiet and empty as you possibly can, and then invite your Future Self to scratch it for you.

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The world is awash in bright, shiny nonsense.

Every day we wade through a glare of misinformation and lazy delusions and irrelevant data. It can be hard to locate the few specific insights and ideas that are actually useful and stimulating. That’s the bad news, Capricorn. Here’s the good news: You now have an enhanced ability to ferret out nuggets of data that can actually

empower you. You are a magnet for the invigorating truths you really need most.

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): If you come up with an original invention, apply for a patent immediately. If you think of a bright idea, put it to work as soon as possible. If you figure out crucial clues that everyone else seems blind to, dispel the general ignorance as quickly as you can. This is a perfect moment for radical pragmatism carried out with expeditious savvy. It’s not a time when you should naively hope for the best with dreamy nonchalance.

For the sake of your mental health and for the good of your extended family, be crisp, direct, and forceful.

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PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): In the 1997 film *Austin Powers, International Man of Mystery,* the lead character announces that “’Danger’ is my middle name.” Ever since, real people in the UK have been legally making “Danger” their middle name with surprising regularity. I think it would be smart fun for you Pisceans to add an innovative element to your identity in the coming days, maybe even a new middle name. But I recommend that you go in a different direction than “Danger.” A more suitable name might be “Changer,” to indicate you’re ready to eagerly embrace change. Or how about “Ranger,” to express a heightened desire to rove and gallivant?