City Hub 19 March 2015

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city hub 19 march 2015

State should seize south Sydney land: Mandla

By James elton-Pym Liberal City of Sydney councillor Edward Mandla is urging the state government to take control of a huge swathe of land in south Sydney earmarked for redevelopment to stop the council enacting its own plans for the site.

Clr Mandla was the only councillor who voted against a motion last June to publicly display the council’s plan to rezone the Southern Industrial Area and convert it to a mix of a business park for light industry and affordable housing for lowincome workers.

The 265-hectare area is located around Alexandria and Rosebery and is about nine times the size of Barangaroo.

Clr Mandla would not say how confident he was that the state government would intervene but told City Hub that NSW Premier Mike Baird was “aware of [the request], sees the merits of it and has basically said ‘come see us after the election’.”

Lord Mayor Clover Moore hit back at Clr Mandla for trying to find a way around council.

“It is no surprise that Edward Mandla would like to see his mates in the state government take over large parts of the City of Sydney,” she said.

“His work to halve the value of residential votes at the next election shows he has no interest in democracy. Now he wants the government to swoop in and take over, just like they did at Barangaroo.”

Clr Mandla, speaking at a press conference at Town Hall last week, said there was precedent for the state government stepping in and taking over in cases where a development was “state significant”, as happened with the Barangaroo site between Darling Harbour and The Rocks.

“We are merely a branch office of the state government,” he said, speaking at the press conference.

He said the council’s proposal would make landowners in the area “sit on the land” and “wait for another day or a regime change” because the rezoning would not give them profitable

An artist’s impression of Councillor Mandla’s alternative vision for the site. Photo: pulppicture

development options. The final vote on the proposal is expected to be held at either the next council meeting or the one after.

The only other Liberal on council, Christine Forster, voted in favour of the motion last year but said she was “in two minds” about whether to vote yes on the final proposal.

“I appreciate what the council is trying to achieve.

It’s my view that we do need to have dedicated industrial lands close to the city,” she said.

Clr Forster said the City of Sydney and the state government had made a “gateway determination” that the council could decide how to develop the land.

“The usual process is for councils to be the zoning authority, so unless there’s been in some way

an improper process councils should be left to do that.”

She said it was not out of the ordinary for her and Clr Mandla to break party ranks in council votes.

“You only have to look at the records; Clr Mandla and I have voted differently on a range of issues,” she said.

Clr Mandla used last week’s press conference to present his own vision for the site, which would allow landowners the scope and freedom to develop high-profit residential housing.

His policy advisor, John Preston, told City Hub that Sydney was “no longer an industrial city” and criticised the council for “this whacky affordable housing thing”.

A press release from Clr Mandla’s office said the area presented a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to

provide desperately needed homes for more than 100,000 residents”.

That proposal would see the area become one of the most densely populated parts of the city. In comparison, the City of Sydney’s massive Green Square urban renewal project -- which, at 280 hectares, is fractionally larger than the Southern Industrial Area -- aims to house just 54,000 people.

Sustain Community Housing head Josh Vrsaljko, who spoke alongside Clr Mandla at the media event, said letting landowners build for-profit residential would lead to more affordable housing faster than the council’s plan.

“If you put 10 times as much stock on the ground it becomes more affordable … the market will determine the affordability,” he said.

City connects against WestConnex Published weekly and freely available Sydney-wide.

Copies are also distributed to serviced apartments, hotels, convenience stores and newsagents throughout the city.

Distribution enquiries call 9212 5677. Published by the Alternative Media Group of Australia. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content, City Hub takes no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions.

ABN 48 135 222 169 Group Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons Group Manager: Chris Peken Group Editors: Joe Bourke, Emily Contador-Kelsall & James Elton-Pym Contributors: Kayla Canne, Lauren O’Connor Arts Editors: Erika Vass, Jamie Apps Dining Editor: Jackie McMillan Advertising Managers: Robert Tuitama, Mark Barnes Cover Photo: Chris Peken – Phil Bayly Email: question@alternativemediagroup.com Advertising: sales@alternativemediagroup.com Contact: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Web: altmedia.net.au

If you have a story you’d like to tell us: cityhub@alternativemediagroup.com

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By emily Contador-Kelsall.

In a show of opposition against WestConnex the City of Sydney hosted a public meeting in an almost-full Town Hall on Monday.

The meeting comes after the majority of councillors openly denounced the project upon receiving the findings of the council-commissioned SGS report. The report was the first independent review of WestConnex and found it was not appropriate infrastructure for Sydney.

The WestConnex Action Group staged a pop-up rally on the Town Hall steps before the meeting.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore was the first speaker. She said WestConnex’s usefulness as a transport option was not its prime purpose but that it was designed to maximise toll collection.

“The process is a sham and it’s as though we don’t matter and the project is going ahead whatever,” she said.

“This is vandalism on a government scale,” Moore said in relation to WestConnex’s impact on Sydney Park.

The WestConnex project aims to link people with jobs, improve freight transport and permit urban renewal.

Numerous politicians and councillors across the inner city and western Sydney have called for improvements to the public transport network in place of road projects.

Currently, 90 percent of western Sydney workers use public transport to get to city centre jobs.

Terry Rawnsley, principal and partner at SGS Economics and Planning, said it was very difficult to correctly predict the outcomes of new toll roads.

“Toll roads in the past in Australia have proved a very uneven investment,” he said.

Mr Rawnsley presented various alternatives to roads as viable transport infrastructure for Sydney,

The pop-up rally outside Town Hall. Photo: James Elton-Pym

including road pricing and more investment across the public transport network.

Mark Ely from the Newtown Business Precinct Association thanked Clover Moore and the City of Sydney for giving the public the opportunity to “stand up and say we don’t want this toll road”.

Mr Ely said the limited information on how traffic will be managed presents a “life-threatening impact” to businesses along King Street.

“This change and the St Peters interchange have the potential to kill business in Newtown,” he said.

NSW Shadow Minister for Transport and Labor candidate for Newtown Penny Sharpe said there was no policy justification for the St Peters interchange and Labor would not build it.

Ms Sharpe defended Labor’s position on WestConnex at the meeting despite her party’s stance on the project coming under fire on the night from several speakers, including Professor Wendy Bacon and audience members.

“Labor is very clear in relation to WestConnex and my leader Luke Foley has said that WestConnex is a brand and we’re not buying the brand,” she said.

Green’s candidate Jenny Leong, who is running against Ms Sharpe for the seat of Newtown, said the Greens oppose WestConnex and support the redirection of public funds into public transport and cycleways.

Prof Wendy Bacon, journalist and popular speaker on the night, supported Ms Leong’s stance and said the question that confronted the public was why both major parties supported WestConnex given the volume of community opposition.

“The WestConnex project is a 33 km dirty tollway disaster that encapsulates the short-sighted, vested-interest, anti-community, unsustainable culture that has infected politics in NSW for too long,” Ms Leong said.

Ms Leong received support from the crowd with her strong anti-WestConnex stance while Labor’s Ms Sharpe was booed by a few audience members as she exited the stage.

Professor Peter Newman, an Infrastructure Australia board member, also spoke against WestConnex on the night via a video address. city hub 19 march 2015

3

White Bay’s powerful asset for the Bays Precinct

By Joe BourKe Calls for making innovative use of the old White Bay Power Station have risen with development of the controversial Bays Precinct drawing closer.

The building has not been in operation for over 30 years and residents and politicians have said it could be an asset to the community if developed in the right way.

Independent Leichhardt councillor John Stamilos said the building’s heritage opens it to an array of opportunities.

“This is a key site in the Bays Precinct because it’s an existing site, it’s a heritage site, and it will be part of the vision of the Bays Precinct,” he said.

The coal-fired station was built to serve the power requirements for Sydney’s tram and rail expansion in 1912.

Production on the site ceased in 1983 and the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority (SHFA) bought it in 2000 for around $4 million. Since then, the site has been empty except for the occasional use, the most recent being the filming of some scenes of Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby.

The SHFA’s website said, “potential future uses are being developed” as part of the Bays Precinct.

Architect Robert Dodgson has been working on development plans since he was a student at Sydney University, when he completed an assignment to redevelop Ultimo.

Mr Dodson said the site should be utilised for innovation, and warned against a Mirvac-style development.

“I think they should find something exciting and innovative to do with it. You don’t want to be putting multistorey apartment blocks which hug the waterside and take away the amenity of that area; a bad situation will happen,” he said.

“It has to be used well. It has to be part of the city.”

Greens MP Jamie Parker said the area surrounding the site would undergo significant change in the near future and the implications of its development would be far reaching.

The White Bay Power Station building. Source: wikipedia.commons

“We need to have a broader discussion about this site as it’s not just Balmain that it affects,” Mr Parker said.

Clr Stamilos said that no matter how the site was developed, the community must lie at the heart of it.

At last week’s Balmain candidates’ forum, Labor

candidate Verity Firth listed renewable energy as a possible future use of the site.

Ms Firth said the site’s history as a coal-fired power plant made the idea of a renewable energy hub attractive.

Mr Dodgson said that now was the time to act in order to make use of the site’s potential.

“It’s just such a brilliant opportunity and if there isn’t some group who takes control it’s just going to be lost,” he said.

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By James elton-Pym Signs posted at Central station last month banning busking without a permit in the Devonshire Street tunnel were “not authorised”

by Sydney Trains despite bearing the organisation’s official logo, a spokesperson has revealed.

The official-looking signs declared busking, begging and “conducting business” in the tunnel were prohibited without a permit from Sydney Trains.

The signs vanished without explanation around a week after they first appeared in midFebruary.

“Sydney Trains does not require permits for busking in the Devonshire Street tunnel,” a Sydney Trains spokesperson told City Hub. “The sign in question was not authorised by Sydney Trains and was removed as soon it was brought to our attention.”

Sydney rapper NJ Edwards said he busked in the tunnel every week before the signs popped up. He averaged three performances each week and earned about $100 each time.

“It pretty much took away my rent,” he said.

“I walked past [where the signs were] the other day and they have gone … so I guess it’s back on.

I’ll probably go test it out later this week.”

The spokesperson would not disclose whether Sydney Trains knew who was responsible for the signs.

Social media users mocked the organisation for a misspelling on at least one of the signs which had “business” written as “bussiness”.

“They looked a bit shonky I have to say.

I mean they looked legit, but normally if something’s approved by the station it would look

One of the signs posted in the Central tunnel. Photo: Nick McHardy, via Twitter.

more official,” Mr Edwards said, in response to Sydney Trains disavowing the signs.

Andrea Dell, a graphic designer who walks the tunnel most days to get to work in Surry Hills, said she was “outraged” by the signs and “didn’t believe one word” of Sydney Trains’ disownment.

“I think they realised pretty quickly that it was extremely unpopular and removed it, but sadly the damage is done and now very very few buskers have returned,” she said.

“I love the buskers, even the bad ones. I see familiar faces everyday and interact with some regularly … I noticed instantly that they weren’t there.”

The apparent crackdown on buskers was quickly condemned on Twitter. “RIP busking 1906 - 2015.

Devonshire St tunnel now devoid of talented musicians #nothappy #musicisdead #sydneytrains,” radio presenter Nick McHardy wrote. Another user said the signs had made the tunnel “eerily quiet”.

One Instagram user ridiculed the idea of asking for a licence to beg: “May I have a begging permit please!! Beg your pardon.”

The Devonshire Street tunnel runs all the way from Ultimo to Surry Hills and serves as a major thoroughfare for train commuters getting off at Central. The high volume of foot traffic has made it a popular spot for buskers.

Mr Edwards said buskers never had to queue for a place in the tunnel, unlike at the Pitt Street Mall hotspot where wait times of several hours are common.

Public Exhibition

TELSTRA IS PLANNING TO REMOVE A PAYPHONE

Draft Sydney Development Control Plan (Signs & Advertisements) 2015

It is proposed that a coin/card payphone be removed from: Outside 131 Castlereagh Street near Market Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Payphone ID: 02926910X2

The City of Sydney invites submissions on the draft Sydney Development Control Plan (Signs & Advertisements) 2015. This draft plan proposes changes to the planning controls in Section 3.16 of the Sydney Development Control Plan 2012.

Submissions marked ‘Draft Sydney Development Control Plan (Signs & Advertisements) 2015’ can be posted by 16 April 2015 to: Chief Executive Officer, Attention: Ben Pechey, City of Sydney, GPO Box 1591, Sydney NSW 2001.

Submissions can also be emailed by 16 April 2015 to Ben Pechey at bpechey@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au If you have any questions, you can contact Ben Pechey on 02 9265 9333.

For more information call 02 9265 9333 or email council@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au city hub 19 march 2015

The next nearest coin/card payphone is located at: 91 Market Street near Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000 (approximately 50 metres away from the proposed location) Payphone ID: 02928340X2 cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au Sydney2030/Green/Global/Connected

It sets out controls for high-quality signs and advertisements that best address the promotional needs of the City’s businesses.

The plan includes new controls for electronic billboards, electronic and digital business signs and special promotion signs.

It also includes revised controls for building and business identification signs, including top-of-building signs, wall signs, under-awning signs and window signs.

There are also changes to the planning controls and boundaries of the City’s signage precincts.

The draft development control plan is on public exhibition from 17 March until 16 April 2015. The City will consider all submissions received and report the results of the exhibition and any proposed changes to Council.

The draft development control plan and supporting documents are available at sydneyyoursay.com.au Printed copies are available for inspection at the following neighbourhood service centres: • One Stop Shop (CBD) • Green Square NSC • Redfern NSC Level 2, Town Hall House 100 Joynton Avenue, Zetland 158 Redfern Street, Redfern 456 Kent Street, Sydney Monday to Friday: 10am–6pm Monday to Friday: 9am–5pm Monday to Friday: 8am–6pm Saturday: 9am–noon • Kings Cross NSC • Glebe NSC 50–52 Darlinghurst Road, 186 Glebe Point Road Kings Cross (cnr Wigram Road), Glebe Monday to Friday: 9am–5pm Monday to Friday: 9am–5pm Saturday: 9am–noon

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Cartoon: Peter Berner

Central tunnel busking ban signs “not authorised” by Sydney Trains

Telstra intends making a final decision on this proposal by: 8th May 2015 To assist us in making a final decision, we invite your comments on this proposal.

Please send us your comments in writing to Telstra Payphone Siting Manager Locked Bag 4850 Melbourne Vic 3001 or by calling us on 1800 011 433 selection Option 2 or by email to Payphone.Solutions@team.telstra.com For more information on payphone services (including, any applicable payphone consultation document) see: www.telstra.com.au/payphoneservices/index.htm

Meet The Candidates

For the State Seat of Sydney

Who:

Patrice Panedelos

Candidate for the Liberal Party (confirmed)

Alex Greenwich

MP, Independent Member for Sydney (confirmed)

When: Tuesday 24th March 2015 6.30pm for 7.00pm

Edwina Lloyd

Candidate for the Australian Labor Party (confirmed)

Chris Brentin

Candidate for the Greens (confirmed)

Where: The Beauchamp

(corner of Oxford Street and South Dowling, Darlinghurst)

Presented by: The Alternative Media Group of Australia | The Beauchamp Hotel Supported by: The Darlinghurst Business Partnership | The Paddington Business Partnership city hub 19 march 2015

7

“Impossible victory” achieved for Bronte RSL

Candidates talk key issues in Summer Hill

By emily Contador-Kelsall The Bronte RSL has finally been saved after more than two years of sustained community pressure on the NSW government.

The Bronte community, Waverley council and local politicians including Coogee Liberal MP Bruce Notley-Smith have campaigned against the plans which were lodged by developer Winston Langley Burlington (WLB) in March 2013. Last week the Department of Planning and Environment (DoPE) dismissed the application.

Dr Stephen Lightfoot, spokesperson for Save Bronte said the decision was “do or die” for the community.

“If the department had changed the planning controls for the developer, there is nothing the community could have done to stop the oversized building being approved,” he said.

“We stopped the overdevelopment of our neighbourhood against all the odds. The impossible victory!”

Dr Lightfoot said he was in disbelief upon hearing the news but felt great relief when it was confirmed.

“Relief that over two years of such hard work by so many people in our community had achieved what a lot of people said we could never do,” he said.

Mr Notley-Smith, who fought alongside the community, said the decision was a fantastic win for all residents of Bronte who challenged the “ridiculous over-development”.

“This wasn’t the right proposal for this location. In numerous submissions I’ve referred to this as a gross over-development which makes a mockery of the Local Environmental Plan,” he said.

DoPE listed several reasons for its rejection of WLB’s proposed planning controls, including opposition from the community and council.

A spokesperson for DoPE said the decision showed that the planning process worked.

Labor candidate for Coogee Paul Pearce said the rejection of the proposal was a “no-brainer”, and that

By Joe BourKe A modest crowd of around 30 people attended a candidates forum for the newly formed Summer Hill electorate at the Addison Road Community Centre last Sunday.

Present at the forum was notional Labor candidate Jo Haylen, Greens candidate Max Phillips and Socialist Alliance candidate Susan Price. Liberal candidate Julie Passas did not attend, despite earlier suggestions she would.

Former Marrickville mayor Jo Haylen said cuts to education were a key election issue.

“I will fight against the Liberals’ cuts to our schools and to TAFE. Labor will reverse the Liberals’ TAFE hikes and we’re also committed to replacing the demountables at our public schools,” she said.

Ms Haylen denounced the Liberal’s controversial WestConnex plan, despite Labor’s own plan coming under fire for being too similar. “[The Liberals’ plan] will bring worse traffic jams to the inner west, the forced acquisitions of people’s homes and will tear up our local parks and open spaces,” she said.

Mr Phillips grilled the Labor party’s version of WestConnex and said “a vote for the Greens is a vote against WestConnex”.

“The next state parliament will make some critical decisions. Locally the WestConnex motorway will have a big impact on the inner west,” he said.

“It’s a great shame that the Labor party has not really listened to the community on this.”

Ms Price said her party’s plan was to build “a state and society where people and the environment are put before the right of corporations to profit from others’ expense”.

Ms Price also strongly opposed WestConnex and said NSW needed more public transport rather than roads.

Also heavily discussed throughout the meeting were the allegations of corruption raised by ICAC. Mr Phillips said the Greens aim to end all corporate donations to political parties. When asked by a resident why they should trust politicians, Ms Haylen replied with a promise to be upfront with her electorate.

Save Bronte campaigning last year. Source: Facebook.com

it should have never gone to the planning assessment commission but been dealt with locally.

“The whole thing has been extraordinarily peculiar; it was something which was well beyond anything permissible under the zoning,” he said.

“It was a good result for the community. It cost the community thousands of dollars in planning consultants and legal advice, plus all the angst that goes along with something that drags on for two and a half years.”

Dr Lightfoot said the best thing about “this whole wretched process” had been seeing the community stand together for so long.

“Some of us had to devote hours and hours, week after week for over two years to ensure that our neighbourhood wasn’t ruined by a development that was simply too big for the Bronte RSL site. That was not easy for our team.”

The decision from the department came 11 weeks after they received independent advice from Waverley

council planners that WLB’s planning rules for Bronte RSL had “no strategic merit and should be refused”.

The delayed response kept the community and Save Bronte on their toes as they continued to pressure DoPE and Minister for Planning Pru Goward as they awaited the decision.

Waverley Mayor Sally Betts said the decision confirmed the integrity of Council’s decision-making process.

“The State Government has upheld our decision to refuse this gross overdevelopment because it’s not suited to the scale and objective of the neighbourhood centre,” she said.

Dr Lightfoot said Save Bronte is now calling on WLB and its partners in the Bronte RSL sub-branch to “act responsibly in proposing a redevelopment of the Bronte RSL site”.

“Any further attempts to avoid our planning laws will be fiercely opposed by the Bronte community,” he said.

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Newtown, new seat, new faces

Power to the people at Ultimo Community Centre

By Kayla Canne Candidates for the new seat of Newtown spent last Friday night answering questions from the public at a forum hosted by the Friends of Erskineville residents organisation.

A crowd of nearly 50 people gathered at Erskineville Town Hall to hear five of the seven candidates respond to major election issues, such as housing affordability, privatisation, tax breaks and government subsidies for gambling companies.

WestConnex was a big topic on the night after several residents questioned candidates over their stance on the controversial proposal. They also asked Labor candidate Penny Sharpe for specific details on where the route would end.

Ms Sharpe responded by saying that her party was committed to transparency, but only after more research.

“I’m not allowed to tell you exactly where the M4 entrance will be,” she said.

“But what I am allowed to tell you is that Labor is committed to publishing the business case and to publishing the cost-benefit analysis of that, and to also doing the community consultation before we would proceed. It is wrong to suggest that Labor supports all of WestConnex … but we’re not shying away from saying that we will build some roads.”

The other four candidates were completely opposed to WestConnex, expressing concern about the money funnelled into the operation.

“It’s wrong-headed to be talking about spending over $500 million on roads that, as far as the [City of Sydney] reports, won’t be properly utilised or financially viable,” Australian Cyclist Party candidate Noel McFarlane said.

Greens candidate Jenny Leong said WestConnex funding would be better utilised for updating public transportation.

A public forum to protest the controversial relocation of the Powerhouse Museum will be held this Friday.

Balmain Greens MP Jamie Parker, historian Shirley Fitzgerald as well as City Hub publisher and president of the Pyrmont Ultimo Chamber of Commerce Lawrence Gibbons will speak at the ‘Fight for the Powerhouse’ event.

The forum follows the Baird government’s announcement in late February that they would relocate the museum to Parramatta to develop western Sydney’s arts and cultural sector.

Mr Parker said the move was “cultural vandalism”, and that it was actually a real estate deal to cash in on the current Powerhouse site.

“It’s madness to destroy all of the investment in a purpose built exhibition facility so that they can build a facility somewhere else. It’s like saying we’re going to knock down RPA to build a hospital in Campbelltown, it’s ridiculous,” he said.

“This is actually a real estate deal, it’s not an issue of cultural equity in western Sydney.”

An online petition against the museum’s relocation was launched by Mr Parker in early March and has since gained over 1400 signatures.

One person who signed the petition said it was a “pure and simple” land grab.

“This should not be presented as an us-and-them situation. You don’t enhance the cultural life of western Sydney by closing down a much-loved institution in the city. This is about a land grab – pure and simple,” they said.

Mr Parker said a key aim of the evening was to build an action group against the plan.

“What we know wins these struggles is community action, and we want to build a group of people who are interested in publicising and coordinating a campaign to protect our public buildings and also to promote arts and the culture in the community,” he said.

The Fight for the Powerhouse Museum event will be held at the Ultimo Community Centre, Friday 20 March, 6:30-7:45PM.

Candidates at the forum on Friday. Source: twitter

“$4.5 billion based on the Green’s transport plan would deliver the Inner City Regional Sydney Cycle Network that is long overdue,” she said.

“It would make all of our train stations accessible so that [people with] mobility issues wouldn’t have to struggle up and down our train station stairs. It would also introduce the light rail on Parramatta Road. Those are just some of the things $4.5 billion could buy, and instead we have bipartisan support for billions of dollars into dirty tollways.”

Michael Walsh of the Animal Justice Party said building new roads was not the answer to high traffic conditions, and that in a few years the WestConnex additions would be just as congested as the rest of the city.

Karl Schubert of the Christian Democratic Party said his main concern was the lack of funding available for other programs, which would be ignored due to the WestConnex project.

Absent from the forum was Dale Dinham of the

No Land Tax Campaign and Liberal candidate Rachael Wheldall.

Mr Dinham could not be reached by organisers, and Ms Wheldall reportedly wanted to attend, but said the head office of the Liberal party would not allow her to come, according to the Friends of Erskineville Housing affordability was also discussed on the evening.

Ms Sharpe left for another function before the topic was raised, but the other four candidates agreed that quotas needed to be set.

Ms Leong said that new housing developments in NSW should allocate a minimum of 10 percent of new dwellings to affordable housing.

One resident brought up concerns about privatisation, and all candidates agreed that outsourcing was against the public’s interest.

Mr Schubert noted that if deals were to be made, contracts must be long enough to ensure stability of care so that patients weren’t shuffled from company to company in the process.

FROM THE MAYOR

Leichhardt Council at risk of being amalgamated – Have your say Leichhardt Council is a strong and financially sound council both now and into the future. This has been confirmed by the Government’s own TCorp analysis.

Nevertheless we are at significant risk of being amalgamated.

The amalgamation of Leichhardt into a mega council would mean the loss of accessible and meaningful local representation; significantly higher costs; higher rates for many; a potential loss of services; the selling off of council facilities; the loss of many local jobs and the loss of local advocacy on behalf of local residents and businesses.

The timeline of the Fit for the Future’s plans to amalgamate councils is very fast and could see amalgamations start late 2015.

I strongly encourage you to complete the survey at www. surveymonkey.com/s/Amalgamations. You will also receive a hard copy in your mailbox shortly.

You can also attend a meeting on 22 April at 6:30pm at the Balmain Town Hall to talk to independent experts, Council staff and myself.

If you want to have a say on the future of Leichhardt Council you need to make sure your voice is heard on amalgamations.

Cr Rochelle Porteous Mayor of Leichhardt  Leichhardt Council  7-15 Wetherill St Leichhardt  Ph 9367 9222  Fx 9367 9111   www.leichhardt.nsw.gov.au  leichhardt@lmc.nsw.gov.au   facebook/LeichhardtCouncil  twitter@leichhardtmc  10

city hub 19 march 2015

Leichhardt Council is Fit for the Future Leichhardt Council is at risk of amalgamation into a West Mega Council with Ashfield, Burwood, City of Canada Bay, Marrickville and Strathfield.

Independent research shows that Leichhardt can, and should, remain a standalone Council.

Find out more Look for the No Forced Amalgamations Brochure in your letterbox this week.

Go to www.leichhardt.nsw.gov. au/Amalgamations and www. noforcedamalgamations.com.au Public Meeting A public meeting will be held on Wednesday 22 April at Balmain Town Hall. Talk to the consultants, the Mayor and key Council staff.

How can I have my say Fill out the survey you will find: • at www.surveymonkey.com/s/ Amalgamations • in the No Forced Amalgamations brochure.

Join the discussion at www. facebook.com/LeichhardtCouncil Make a written submission to the Mayor or General Manager via leichhardt@lmc.nsw.gov.au or to Leichhardt Council, PO Box 45, Leichhardt NSW 2040

www.noforcedamalgamations.com.au

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Visit www.agavelove.com.au for the full program and tickets

City Hub HALF PAGE.indd 1

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11

“Urgent action needed” for Sydney’s housing crisis

By Lauren O’COnnOr A panel of housing and social sector experts have called on all levels of government to address a housing affordability “crisis” in Sydney.

On March 12 the City of Sydney invited eight guests to discuss the social and economic impacts of falling rates of home ownership.

John Daley of political policy think-tank The Grattan Institute said Sydney was separated into two “cities” with a divide in home ownership between rich and poor.

“Our cities are changing as we move from being a manufacturing economy to being a service economy. If you go back 30-40 years there was very little divide essentially between people on high incomes and people on low incomes,” he said.

The forum at Town Hall included panellists from property developer Mirvac, Westpac, experts on urban planning and representatives from youth and social housing groups.

The event filled to capacity and highlighted a lack of appropriate housing within 10 kilometres of Sydney’s CBD. Mr Daley was concerned young people would be waiting an average of 40 years to inherit property and be increasingly priced out of the housing market.

“Home ownership among Sydney’s younger generation has fallen over the past two decades, from 60 percent in 1981 to 48 percent in 2011... it’s going to wind up pretty close to zero,” Mr Daley said.

“It’s a real problem, it’s not just an anecdotal thing, we are seeing an increasing generation locked out.”

Eamon Waterford, policy director of Youth Action, said he and his fiancé could not afford to buy a house in Sydney’s inner west without financial help.

“If you want to buy a house before you’re 30

housing crisis had reached a point where “urgent action is needed”, but she told the panel it was the state government’s responsibility to address the issue, not council’s.

“It’s really important that we are having this conversation at this time, with a state election coming up in a couple of weeks,” she said.

“Local governments are a creature of this state, we operate under a state act, so if there’s a state policy about affordable housing and community, that’s what every council will do,” the Lord Mayor said.

“We’re doing very progressive things at the City but we’re already going beyond.”

Panelists at the Town Hall housing forum. Source: twitter.com

you have to buy a house two hours away from your job if you work in the city, or have rich parents,” Mr Waterford said.

“The housing affordability crisis affects Australia’s youth more than any other age group.

Even if you’re making rent it’s affecting your standard of living.”

Dr Cassandra Goldie from the Australian Council of Social Services called on the federal government to acknowledge the ‘crushing’ way renting, long commutes and overcrowding affect the population.

“The deprivation is very extreme and sometimes it’s very hard for the other world to connect with that reality,” she said. “Part of the problem [is that] there is not a good public understanding that the government actually has a big role in this area.”

“If we’ve got a federal government that doesn’t

see it as having a responsibility at all, then we’ve got to make it clear that they are absolutely front and centre of this,” Dr Goldie said.

Statistics provided by the City of Sydney show rent prices have tripled compared to 23 years ago and buying a house or apartment is nearly five times more expensive.

The panel discussed the need for leadership on all levels of government to address the issue. Toby Long, representative for Mirvac said new property developments were made difficult by council requirements.

“They don’t allow you to do certain things that would actually allow you to build more houses on one block and it is the education of the public that if we do want affordability in the middle and outer rings then you have to accept that there is going to be a ‘six-pack’ next door,” Mr Long said.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said Sydney’s

‘Speed dates’ for PyrmontUltimo creatives The Pyrmont Ultimo Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual networking event for local companies working in the creative industry next week.

CREATE 2015 will be hosted at the WOTSO WorkSpace at 6pm on March 25.

All creative businesses from the Pyrmont and Ultimo suburbs and members of the chamber are invited to attend. It will give local creatives the chance to exchange information and ideas over complimentary drinks and canapes. There will be meetand-greet time from 6pm, followed by the keynote speaker at 6:30pm. The rest of the night will be structured around 5-minute ‘speed dating’ introductions between businesses.

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13

EAT & DRINK

By Jackie McMillan

Canberra, Better Than

By Jackie McMillan

It’s 6.30am and the first rays of sun are peeking through farm equipment and glistening spiders’ webs. A truckload of Tumbarumba Chardonnay grapes are already being unpacked by winemaker Nick Spencer, and his offsider Hamish Young.

Their duelling forklifts perform a skilful ballet of weighing then pouring grapes and free-run grape juice into the destemmer. From there it’s into the press; inside it’s like a giant colander with a large balloon that adds pressure. Freerun is the juice that comes out before the balloon presses.

I’m at Eden Road Wines in Murrumbateman, and for the first time ever, I have successfully coincided my visit to a winery with vintage – that chaotic time period when grapes are harvested and wine is being made. For me this is an opportunity to learn more about wine by getting right amongst the bins, barrels, tanks and laboratory; testing Nick’s patience with about a million questions. He’s remarkably unflappable, despite being kept awake all night with a sick child, during what is arguably the most important time of the year in a winemaker’s calendar.

Whilst located in New South Wales, the small village of Murrumbateman is actually the heart of the Canberra Wine District. Dotted along the Barton Highway you’ll see signs to many well-known wineries – Eden Road, Helm Wines, Clonakilla – alongside a host of others. By making a slight detour through Yass as you drive down from Sydney, you can get fully mapped the old school way at the Yass Valley Visitor Information Centre (259 Comur Street,Yass). As well as being experts on getting around the region, they stock a number of locally produced wines in case you have trouble getting around to everyone.While you’re in Yass, check out Thyme To Taste (60 Comur Street,Yass), which carries a great range of local products, including La Barre oils and infused vinegars from just up the road.

Back at Eden Road Wines, it’s time for some tasting –

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during fermentation. Beyond the fun of getting my fingers in the must to reach below the cap and try the fermenting red wine, being in the winery is a great opportunity to see what winemakers are playing with. Perhaps the most interesting thing I tasted was the writhing whole bunch fermented sauvignon blanc grapes, they’re currently making into an ‘orange wine’. “It’s the type of wine sommeliers get excited about,” explains Nick.

While it’s fascinating to get a glimpse of the behind-thescenes process, there’s also a lot to be said for visiting the cellar door. Mike Lloyd took me through the Eden Road range, explaining that they favour a clear expression of the fruit in their winemaking.This allows you to really taste terroir.That’s the flavour imparted by the complete natural environment of soil, topography and climate, for us common people.Tumbarumba Chardonnay in particular, exhibits very distinctive terroir.

As I drive through softly undulating hills taking in epic skies and the constant landscape companion of the distant Snowy Mountains, it becomes even more obvious why you’d want your wine to be an expression of the place it comes from. I ponder this over a selection of cool-climate wine tastings at neighbouring vineyards Helm Wines, Clonakilla and Jeir Creek, before breaking up my wine with a schooner of Murrumbateman pale ale and a simple wood-fired pizza lunch at Four Winds Vineyard (9 Patemans Lane, Murrumbateman).

When you hit your wine limit, there are also food producers to visit, from Robyn Rowe Chocolates (1153 Nanima Road, Murrumbateman) where you should try a coconut lime zing, to Poachers Pantry (431 Nanima Road, Hall) where you can pick up some locally smoked meats. For a one-stop produce shop include an early Saturday morning visit to the Capital Region Farmers’ Market (Exhibition Park, Flemington Road, Watson) where you’ll be able to really load up the car boot.

Expect to find everything from South Coast seafood to Gilmore Braes rare-breed heritage beef.While the quality is uniformly great, do expect prices to be similar to Sydney.

The thriving kitchen garden at Capital Wines (42 Cork Street, Gundaroo) might incline you to stay for dinner at their restaurant Grazing. Located in a 150-year-old hotel, it’s a notch above rustic country fare, with their garden produce shining in a picked-for-service side salad. At the fancier end, there’s Farmhouse (18 Kallaroo Road, Pialligo) at the home

EAT DRINK EAT &&DRINK

By Jackie McMillan

By Jackie McMillan jackie@alternativemediagroup.com

You Think

of Australia’s best artisan bacon, Pialligo Estate. Despite only being open a week on the night I dined, they produced a beautiful meal utilising produce from their olive grove, vineyard, orchard, market garden and smokehouse.You won’t find that in Sydney!

Running along the Federal Highway as you head into Canberra, you’ll find another sub-region of the Canberra Wine District. For the sake of comparison - or just to check out the winery that produced Australia’s first Gruner Veltliner - stop in at Lark Hill Winery (521 Bungendore Road, Bungendore). Their lovely high-altitude wines are not the only drawcard; their restaurant offers a comfortable vantage point to survey the vineyards with a glass of their wine in your hand and a decadent pot of Jersey cream crème brûlée.

In Canberra proper, the QT Hotel provides the perfect base to explore art, architecture or foodie destinations. Charge up at Two Before Ten Coffee Roasters (69 Bandjalong Crescent, Aranda) before getting saturated in colour by the James Turrell retrospective at the National Gallery (Parkes Place, Parkes). Squeeze in a stroll through the outdoor art

in NewActon before lunch at Monster Kitchen and Bar (25 Edinburgh Avenue, Canberra).With dishes like eggplant with smoked goat’s curd, katsuobushi and sesame, the menu belies its hotel lobby location. Even the humble brekky roll here teams grilled sobrassada, pickled green tomato, fried egg and manchego on ciabatta. Later, if your feet are tired, rest assured QT’s in-house restaurant, Capitol Bar and Grill delivers a quality experience under the stewardship of Creative Food Director Robert Marchetti.

As I wrap up my three-day weekend with an old fashioned nightcap in the hotel bar, a visiting Norwegian choir bursts into song.Their rendition of Waltzing Matilda is the best I’ve heard.They’re here to sing for the King of Norway; thus explaining the Norwegian flags flying at Parliament House.

There’s a definite sense of being in the nation’s capital, where big things happen. And QT have smartly ensured you can get your political selfie with Australia’s arch villain (sadly not in red Speedos) using a quirky, life-size photographic wall. I leave, my car boot groaning with wine and produce, with the decided impression that Canberra is much better than most Sydneysiders think.

Nick Spencer from Eden Road Wines

Lark Hill Winery Restaurant “My father is now 99 and we were in his biodynamic garden picking for the restaurant this morning,” explains winemaker Sue Carpenter. She’s just taken me through arguably the best tasting I’ve had in the Canberra Wine District, and has moved on to selling the restaurant. I don’t take much convincing to enjoy their stellar range – particularly the

QT Canberra It’s high time someone was brave enough to have some fun with politicians. From Tony Abbott quotes about election campaigns being “budgie smuggler free zones” in the in-room guide; to crazy past’n’present Prime Minister wallpaper; to press pack paparazzi bursting from the lifts; this hotel takes a youthful, pop-art approach to reflecting its location in our nation’s capital.Without reinventing the

universe, QT Canberra have refreshed the old Rydges Lakeside property, making it all the more joyful just by teaming their trademark bright yellow against a bevy of black and white.The Bulleit Bourbon Old Fashioned kit with instructions that begin with ringing for ice is a nice way to get your room stay off to the right start.Though if you can’t be bothered mixing your own, downstairs in the Capitol Bar & Grill, you can take your Old Fashioned ($19) barrel aged on Woodford Reserve. Moving from the bar through an impressive array of meat slicers, you enter the dining room proper.You’re greeted with an extensive please-all selection of Chicago-Italian inspired dishes, from updated Oysters Florentine ($26), to a ‘Butchers’ Tomato Salad ($21) with blue cheese dressing poured tableside, to thick slabs of coal grilled Tuna ($44).While everything’s generous, you do need the Mac’n’Cheese ($16) with your Rib Eye ($48) steak before you waddle to bed upstairs.

1 London Circuit, Canberra City (02) 6247 6244 qtcanberra.com.au American, Italian, Cocktails $$$$

Farmhouse Lured in by their award-winning artisan bacon, I came to be at Canberra’s latest dining destination, Farmhouse, a mere week after they opened.Youthful Chef Brendan Walsh has produced a mature menu that reflects his time with Alain Ducasse at London’s Dorchester and at Melbourne’s Vue de Monde.And despite an outstanding floor team led by Jan Gundlach, he even presents a few dishes himself.Walsh’s description of the Inglewood Farm Chook ($40),“finished in

beautiful off-dry 2013 ‘Eliza’ Riesling ($12/glass) and the 2013 ‘Mr V’ Marsanne, Roussanne,Viognier ($14/glass) blend – in the restaurant they built themselves, overlooking the vineyards.The short menu is available as Two ($50/head) or Three-Courses ($65/head); though if you’re having trouble committing, I will say the Jersey cream crème brûlée was the best thing I tasted.Araluen peaches with pistachios and condensed milk ice cream aren’t anything to be sniffed at either; they reflect a lovely simplicity that allows the produce to speak. It’s also evident in the Angus rump, where three cheeks of beef, charred on one side and pink on the other, drip black garlic butter beside a mound of rocket and Parmesan.The short ingredient list carries through to entrees like blow-torched scallops with finger lime and nam jim. Between the luscious wines, scenic views and lazy jazz drifting in from musicians sitting right on the balcony, it was just the relaxed, uncomplicated meal I’d been craving.

521 Bungendore Road, Bungendore (02) 6238 0266 larkhillwinery.com Modern Australian,Wine $$$

its own juices with turnips from the back paddock, and the corn you drove through on the way in,” connect the diner to the restaurant philosophy. It celebrates the outputs of Pialligo Estate – the market vegetable gardens, orchards, olive grove, smokehouse and vineyards.This connection to the land shines brightly in a picturesque collection of Heritage Tomatoes, Burrata and Grilled Peach ($19); though the sea isn’t neglected either, with superb quality Yellowfin Tuna, Sea Blight,Tasmanian Wasabi and Almond ($22), easily my dish of the night.The pleasant interplay between chef and sommelier endeared me to a lovely 2013 Jamsheed Roussanne ($59/ bottle), before an earthy blood pudding-enriched jus with gingerbread and Biodynamic Lynden Lamb ($42) turned everything red.The locally-produced 2012 Collector ‘Red Rose City’ Sangiovese ($14/glass) answered the challenge, stretching to a well-ripened selection of home-grown and international Cheese ($24).

18 Kallaroo Road, Pialligo ACT (02) 6247 6060 thepialligoestate.com.au Modern Australian,Wine $$$$ city hub 19 MArch 2015

15

ARTS FEATURE

Agave Love

By Kayla Canne When Australian tequila connoisseur Phil Bayly closed the doors of Sydney’s first iconic tequila bar, Cafe Pacifico, for the last time, he left with a promise in The Shout 2013: “I intend to focus on continuing to help build the tequila category through training and awareness of products coming into the market.”

This weekend Bayly will host Australia’s first large-scale agave conference, Agave Love, bringing together tequila and mezcal experts from all over the world to teach consumers about the unique characteristics of each of the agave spirits. As mezcal gains popularity in the industry, he noticed a large amount of confusion between the spirits among consumers and industry members alike. Through a series of workshops and blind tastings led by regulators, distillers and bartenders from the US, Mexico, Asia and other parts of New Zealand and Australia, Bayly hopes attendees will gain a better understanding and appreciation of the differences between each spirit.

The conference was inspired by 35 years of trips to Mexico where Bayly became passionate about tequila after speaking with the makers themselves. Agave Love uses the same approach, which he hopes will help consumers become excited about the category.

“Because of their passion, I wanted the idea where you could actually have a dialogue with these people and ask questions and get to know who they are,” Mr Bayly said, “You go to Mexico, and you’ll never find them — they’re all too busy. Here, they’ve actually dedicated their time to just be here and talk about the products.”

James France, who has been importing tequila for

the past seven years as the managing director of Vanguard Luxury Brand, said that a lack of good product in the beginning days of Australia’s tequila industry led consumers to a rocky start.

“We’re trying to educate people that good tequila is not an oxymoron,” Mr France said, “It’s a completely different world than what it was 10 years ago.”

“The whole thing is really to just raise awareness and knowledge for the industry. I think Phil’s project will help with all of that by making the spirits more approachable. There’s no better person to speak to than the person who actually distills it and makes it, and that’s a really rare opportunity for the Australian public.”

Within the two day conference, running from March 22 and 23, consumers can attend eight sessions out of a total of 46 workshops, all held in small bars around Darlinghurst on Oxford Street.

Bayly choses bars within walking distance of one another to create a more intimate atmosphere, allowing attendees the opportunity to socialize as they walk from place to place. By limiting the number of workshops each consumer can attend, Bayly hopes to continue the dialogue-based experience among consumers themselves as they exchange stories in-between sessions.

“It makes them feel like they didn’t get enough and that they want some more,” Mr Bayly said.

Bayly thinks the confusion between tequila and mezcal comes from the rapid expansion of the industry in Australia in recent years. Not too long ago, it was rare to find multiple expressions of tequila in a single bar, Bayly said, but now, “there are so many different brands in the market that it’s become a bit of a nightmare because now people need to navigate what those things are.”

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city hub 19 march 2015

By focusing on category and not brand, Bayly hopes consumers will walk away from the conference with a better understanding of the industry as a whole — what makes the agave spirits special beyond the fancy labels and beautiful artisanal bottles.

“I see it natural that there’s a need for awareness, because also the consumer is wanting to know more about what they’re drinking. Helping people to understand how to drink it and how to appreciate it is a big part of [Agave Love]. I think hopefully it’s going to have a big impact and that it’ll boost people’s awareness to want to actually go out and find out more.”

Christian Rosas of the National Chamber of the Tequila Industry in Mexico said over the past five years,

tequila exports to Australia have grown by 145 percent, which he sees as evidence that “Australian consumers are understanding more and more what is tequila and its characteristics. They are looking for products that offer more added value.”

France said growth in the industry seems to be accelerating in recent years, and he thinks Agave Love will only help that.

“We’ve seen very strong growth, but I think it’s just going to increase even more, and things like this — Agave Love — it single handedly won’t change the industry, but I think it’s going to do a lot for it all the same,” Mr France said. “I think it’s a really good first step in broadening the profile of tequila to consumers.”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT SpECTRuM NoW FESTIvAl

The Sydney Morning Herald Spectrum Now festival, presented by ANZ, is set to be a colourful exhibition of some of Sydney’s diverse creative talent. Spectrum Now will run from the 11th until the 29th of March, giving Sydney siders the opportunity to engage with the arts and excite all their senses.

Directed by Richard Roxburgh, there are countless events in store this year, many of which are easy to access and free of charge. Event categories range from ‘Secret Sydney’; a useful guide to exposing some of Sydney’s hidden gems, to ‘Live and Loud’; a collection of live acts guaranteed to rouse a new appreciation for music and theatre.

In a selection of galleries, backstreets, theatres and restaurants, these vibrant venues across Sydney will infuse together food and art, as well as cinema and sound. There really is no limit to what creativity can achieve, especially when there is such collaboration between different mediums on offer.

The festival kicks off with Spectrum Playground, the outdoor ‘centrepiece’ located in the Domain. There in the heart of the city will be an array of markets, stalls, outdoor dining and even an open-air cinema.

Spectrum Now has something for everyone, and should not be missed as a prime opportunity to see local Sydney artists exhibit their work out in the public sphere.

For further information on event times and venues, visit the website http://spectrumnow.com.au (SM)

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

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

Riverrun touches on world politics, the history of the universe and Irish history in an alternative form of communication.“It’s a very challenging text. Best not try to decipher it, more experience it like a piece of music and let it wash over you,” says Fouere. (MS) Until 11 April 2015. Opening Night: Thursday 12 March 2015 at 8.15pm, Wharf 2, Sydney Theatre Company, Pier4/5 Hickson Road,Walsh Bay, Box Office: 02 9250 1777. sydneytheatre.com.au Tickets: $40 - $55

FREAk WINdS Determined to revive the seminal productions of its edgy history, Red Line Productions has managed to lure Marshall Napier’s classic Freak Winds back to the Old Fitzroy Theatre.

In a deserted neighbourhood on a stormy night, brash insurance salesman Henry Crumb (Ben O’Toole) invades the home of the reclusive Ernest (Napier) and his enigmatic companion Myra (Anna Bamford). Before long, the evening takes on a series of surprising and increasingly macabre turns, blending humour with genuine horror in the claustrophobic venue that is ‘the Old Fitz’.

“It’s the ideal venue for a play like this”, says Napier, who having created the play, is also acting and directing. From its humble beginnings, Freak Winds has found audiences internationally, including a season in New York. “The exposure was unexpected”, admits Napier. “When I wrote it, I genuinely thought it would have a very small audience. It’s hardly mainstream but its appeal was a lot broader than I had imagined”.

A writing twist brought upon by a nasty accident has seen some last minute changes to the storyline. “I smashed my tibia so I had to do a rewrite to accommodate my incapacity”, says Napier.

For the squeamish, the back row might be the best seat in the house. (GW) 10 March – 11 April,Tuesday – Saturday, 7:30pm, Sunday 5pm, Old Fitzroy Theatre, 129 Dowling Street, Woolloomooloo, $32, www.oldfitztheatre.com, 0422198955

RIvERRuN

a&e

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Arts Editor: Erika Vass Assistant Arts Editor: Jamie Apps Sub-Editor: Charlotte Foster For more A&E stories go to www.altmedia.net.au and don’t forget to join the conversation on Twitter at @AltMediaSydney

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

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WAlkINg WITh dINoSAuRS Walking With Dinosaurs: The Arena Spectacular is making its way back home to Sydney after a gripping worldwide tour. Originally based on the BBC documentary miniseries, the live Jurassic performance first came to life in 2007. From there on, the dinosaurs we simply saw on screen were brought back into existence, as the show exhibits life size majestic models that walk, stomp, roam and roar.

This exciting theatrical experience transports the audience back through the prehistoric times, from the Cretaceous period, through to the Triassic. Showcasing a set full of huge sub-tropical plants and lush jungle scenery, people have the chance to come as close as they dare to watch these magnificent creatures in action.

The Arena Spectacular features dinosaurs that come in all shapes, sizes and textures. Amongst them there will be the frightening Tyrannosaurus Rex with its lizard like skin and sharp teeth, or the large boned Brachiosaurus with a neck so long it can reach the highest of trees. The latest production also hopes to be even more visually stunning with the introduction of colourful and feathered dinosaurs.

All in all, do not miss the opportunity to come and see this incredibly terrifying performance while it is back down under. (SM) Wed 18 Mar to Sun 22 Mar, Allphones Arena, $44.90-$199.90, www.dinosaurlive.com

All ThAT JAzz: JAM NIghTS AT ThE WoRld BAR The World Bar has a strongly grounded reputation as one of Kings Cross’ most popular weekend venues for drinking and dancing. However, there is more to this unique venue than dance music and teapot cocktails.

Ankle down on a Monday evening and you’ll discover one of the Sydney jazz and Latin music communities best kept secrets.

The weekly Latin & Jazz Open Mic Jam Sessions are a welcoming place where anyone and everyone can come along to enjoy some timeless Jazz standards, whether they are performing or observing..

Whether you plan on taking the stage or not, you can enjoy the open atmosphere in the venue’s main bar (front room) where the doors open onto the terrace and the standing piano is rolled out. In the colder months you can enjoy the ambiance of a roaring fire.

A diverse lot of performers take the stage every week – from students of the Australian Institute of Music, to former X-Factor contestants and regulars like Valda, a spritely woman in her nineties who plays a mean French horn.

This regular event fosters the artistic side of the city’s musical community, free of cover charge. Even if you’re just looking for somewhere to enjoy a fine glass of wine on a Monday evening, it’s worth a look.

If you’d like to join the ‘cats’ on stage, all you need to do is call or email your sheet music and/or ideas to latinjazz@theworldbar.com up to the day of the jam session, and the jazz house band will prepare to accompany you. (AM) Every Monday, 6-11pm at The World Bar, 24 Bayswater Road Potts Point. FREE. ThEATRE & pERFoRMANCE DREAM HOME IIn an idealistic world, everyone wants to move into his or her stable home and live the perfect life with perfect surroundings. However, in the up-andcoming production, by David Williamson, things are not always what they seem.Williamson takes a spin on the idealistic lifestyle of a perfect couple and turns their lives around with an ex-lover, jealous husband and kleptomaniacs for neighbours. (EV) Jan 31-Mar 28, Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli, $25-$69, 02 9929 0644, ensemble.com.au MADAMA BUTTERFly When Madama Butterfly was first performed at La Scala at the turn of the twentieth century it was a resounding flop. Puccini quickly revised the opera. Several months later his new production was a smash hit with Italian audiences. Over the subsequent century, Madama Butterfly has become one of most popular 18

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operas of all time.The tragic story of a young fifteen year old Japanese girl who is married to a two-timing American sailor is brought to life by Opera Australia.This excellent production captures Puccini’s genius completely.The stage, an elegant Japanese house, is exquisitely simple.

Greek soprano Alexia Voulgaridou plays Madama Butterfly brilliantly. Her vocal mastery of the part evokes the most emotional aspects of the opera.

Her despicable husband, Pinkerton is performed by the Australian tenor, James Egglestone, who was resoundingly booed at the curtain call, indicating he succeeds at being a perfect cad. (DG, DC) MAN OF lA MANCHA Fifty years after its breakout Broadway success, musical theatre company Squabbalogic will rejuvenate Tony Award-winning musical Man of La Mancha for Sydney audiences. Playing for four weeks, the comically crafted play-within-a-play boasts Broadway icon Tony Sheldon as political prisoner Miguel de Cervantes, who along with

his manservant must persuade fellow convicts of their innocence during the Spanish inquisition. Starring alongside him, as an inmate, is Clovelly based actor Laurence Coy.Admiring Tony Sheldon since a child, Coy feels privileged to be working with the Broadway and West End acclaimed Australian talent.“Tony is just a gorgeous person to work with” the actor gushes,“It’s just been an absolute joy to work with him.” Although the production preserves the muchrevered musical’s original script and music, director Jay James-Moody’s artistic choices are vowed to set it apart.“The script is the script” Coy explains,“But he’s got a very interesting angle on it, in that we all had to be able to sing, act and play musical instruments and so the actors are the orchestra and I think that’s a very interesting development in musical theatre. It’s a fresh look at the play.” (CW) Until 21st March, Reginald Theatre, Seymour Centre,Tickets $30 $49, https://boxoffice.seymourcentre.com or (02) 9351 7940

QUEEN BETTE This one-woman show is the lovechild born from the passionate work of two talented thespians and devoted Bette Davis fans.The play accounts the lives and careers of Hollywood’s most renowned female actresses. From her childhood in Massachusetts through to an unrivaled movie star career, that saw four husbands and an unprecedented fight against the studios for creative independence.

Director Peter Mountford met performer Jeanette Cronin a few years ago and they bonded over a mutual admiration of Bette Davis when he noted Cronin’s stunning resemblance and comparability to her, making her perfect for the role.This is the first time in his international directing career that Mountford has lent his talents to a one-person show, which he said,“has been an intense yet fulfilling experience” With anticipation building over the past year, the dynamic duo have handpicked the best moments of the Hollywood actress’s life.They present an intimate portrayal

of a star whom has often been represented in a harsh light. (AM) 25th of February -15th of March, the Old 505 Theatre, 505/342 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, venue505@mac.com SHOTgUN The Rock Surfers Theatre Company’s stellar January to June season continues this month with the infinitely intimate production, Shotgun.Away from their home by the beach,The Rock Surfers have taken to the road, teaming up with Spectrum Now Festival to present this unique, world premiere – in a parked car, deep within the Domain car park.A parked car may not seem the most obvious choice for a theatrical production. However the Rock Surfers have taken the initiative, seizing the opportunity to respond to growing interest in site-specific performances that offer audiences alternative theatrical experiences.

Designed for an audience of three, this micro-performance will present darkly comical confessional monologues presented by some of Sydney’s best actors.Adding another layer of

playfulness to Spectrum Now Festival, audiences will be hand-picked at random from the crowds of the whimsical Spectrum Playground to take part in this ten minute performance.

(JH) Until 22nd March, the Spectrum Playground,The Domain, free entry, http:// rocksurfers.org/shotgun/ SUDDENly lAST SUMMER Written by Tennessee Williams and set in New Orleans, IT tells the story of a Southern matriarch’s mission to seek a lobotomy for her disturbed niece, Catharine.Through contextual scientific certainty and social norms, and even the setting of 1935 New Orleans, the viewer is invited to consider the outward appearances we create.And of course, what may really be bubbling beneath the surface.

Tennessee Williams really felt the undercurrents of people, and was interested in what they are hiding versus what they show.As with any Williams text, lush Southern-lilted drama is on offer. (HC) Until Mar 21, Drama Theatre, Sydney Opera House, $58-$99

THE NAkEd CITY

FEAR oF FESTIvAlS

By Coffin Ed and Miss dEath and Jay Katz As far as we know, there is no actual word to describe a fear or phobia associated with festivals.

Maybe there should be, particularly when we look at a city like Sydney which is inundated with festivals such as arts festivals, film festivals, food festivals, community festivals and festivals without any definable theme – like the forthcoming Vivid. the question does arise – are there just too many festivals on the sydney and suburban calendar? We put this proposition to a random selection of avid festival goers throughout sydney and came up with some surprising results. for starters, we discovered an alarming number of festival ‘junkies’ – a group of individuals who simply don’t want to miss out on anything, be it the latest rock music fest, a plate of Mongolian meatballs or a week of Mexican or Japanese cinema. they openly admit to being cultural obsessives with an addiction that can often get completely out of hand, both financially and physically. already a statewide festival aversion group has been started, whereby festival tragics are encouraged to order a pizza, rent a dVd and spend the night at home rather than dressing as the obese Elvis and catching a train to Parkes. if you are the sort of compulsive that sits through every film at the Sydney film festival, there is hope for you too if you agree to be blindfolded with gaffa tape for an entire week.

furthermore, we discovered a mutant breed of festival freaks for whom too many festivals is simply not enough. not only do they participate as volunteers, merchandisers, occasional drug dealers and even performers, but they nearly all aspire to become actual festival directors in their own right.

Whether it’s a community bash in Marrickville, or the Saudi Arabian film festival, they all revere the top position and the chance of total artistic domination. fortunately, we have yet to see the emergence of celebrations like spain’s highly disturbing “baby jumping festival”. dating back to the early 17th century as a celebration of the Catholic feast of Corpus Christi, it involves men dressed as the devil leaping over very young babies placed on mattresses in the street - as their terrified parents watch on. nevertheless as even more festivals clog the already saturated sydney calendar, we can certainly expect the bizarre as each new carnival attempts to outdo the others.

We have already heard rumours of a clothing optional ‘free’ jazz festival scheduled for Cockatoo Island and a Council sponsored ‘underwater’ film fest, seating at least two hundred scuba divers in the Boy Charlton Pool. the popcorn is bound to be a bit soggy, but the idea of ushers dressed as mermaids is certainly appealing.

Look out sydney, we might even see our very own ‘baby jumping’ festival - not helpless tiny tots like in spain, but something a bit more challenging. think

sumo wrestlers and some of the tallest and chubbiest imported especially from Japan, resplendent in giant huggie style nappies rather than their traditional mashawis. now there’s an attraction to put some real zing into Vivid. Bring on those festivals!

THE HIT LIST: Mitch Grainger is an australian

singer, guitarist and harmonica virtuoso who has been honing his skills in the US for the past five or more years. He’s now briefly back home to present a special showcase of his new album the Blues at the Petersham Bowling Club this coming sunday 22 March from 7pm along with an all star band.

TéChA NoBlE Técha Noble has worked across all manner of mediums; from textile design, to performance art and set design. Despite getting attention from rap superstars and Australian label heroes, she’d prefer to skip the name dropping. Noble insists that this flitting between channels and constructions is all part of being an artist today.

“It’s the nature of contemporary practice and critical thinking. Part of concept development is choosing a medium appropriate towards the idea.”

CRYSTAL ROMEO sees Noble examining new ways to depict Australia’s landscape, eschewing the masculine narratives of colonialism for glitter and high camp. Combining video installation from the recent dance art performance Day to Night, printmaking and costume pieces, CRYSTAL ROMEO adds sparkle to traditional Symbolist

ExhIBITIoNS COSyDNEy Finding a space to work and be creative is a hard balance to achieve.

CoSydney is a formal yet innovative space whereby people from all workplaces are able to go and utalise the space.CoSydney was founded by Vinh van Lam as he wanted to provide a foundation for people to be able to connect and network their ideas and work.“I believe that CoSydney provides people the opportunity to leave the house and get work done,” Vinh van Lam explains,“We provide a space where people can come and visit, use our facilities and associate with one

depictions, with a nod to “the embarrassing uncle of Australian art” Norman Lindsay. “[It’s] a way of looking at the landscape as a decorative means, rather than a manly and heroic way…there is a discordant relationship to nature in Australia, a very weird gothic book narrative idea that I think alludes to a certain trauma.”

Continuing the theme of subverting traditional narratives, Noble features a piece with model Casey Legler, who is bilingual in the language of gender construction. “She’s a pretty amazing looking human, and artist in her own right, able to apply a conceptual idea of what we’re trying to achieve,” says Noble. (HC) Until April 2nd, Mon-Fri 12-6pm. UTS gallery, level 4, Peter Johnson Building, 702 Harris Street, Ultimo

another. Initially, I wanted to create a space where I could support the art industry, so I have created a space of four floors.” Each floor is dedicated to different aspects of art, work, business functions and leisurely activities.The environment is very quiet and secluded from the hub-bub of Sydney which allows people to focus and achieve their goals.“What we ultimately want to achieve with CoSydney is for people to be relaxed, comfortable and get the most out of the space.We provide workshops, seminars and even cooking classes so that people can still feel like their at home but in a different environment,” Vin van Lam said. (EV) For more information: http://cosydney.com.au/

TOWERS OF TOMORROW A plethora of multicoloured, glistening bricks, begging to be fondled and clicked are an irresistible lure to both children and adults and are sure to be the most popular aspect of the show.The display features prominent edifices of Australia and South East Asia which have been built to scale by Lego engineer Ryan McNaught. It includes the beautiful, shining, Petronas Towers, Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands, the Eureka building in Melbourne, and a model of Barangaroo.The highlight is the opportunity to play with 200,000 rainbow pieces.This is an immersive experience which will appeal to

enthusiasts of architecture and design and is sure to inspire the creativity of the next generation.

(LR) Until April 19, Museum of Sydney, Cnr Philip & Bridge St, Sydney, $5-15 or $45 family ticket, sydneylivingmuseums.com.au CARESS/ ACHE Suzie Miller‘s newest production Caress / Ache is brushing its way past Sydney theatre-goers this March– April at the Griffin Theatre Company.

Theatre director, dramaturge and teacher Anthony Skuse works closely with Miller on the production, breathing life into this montage-like performance. Inspired partly by the tragic Singaporean man who was executed for drug trafficking and

denied a single, final hug from his desperate, wanting mother. (RBM) Until Apr 11, Griffin Theatre Company, 13 Craigend Street, Kings Cross, $35-50, griffintheatre.com.au CIRCUS FACTORy The display is interactive. On the ground level visitors can experience a live thrill from the talented Circa acrobatic team, swirl a hula hoop, get lost in a hall of mirrors, juggle and ride a fully operational carousel.The next section features a historical collection of costumes and information about the famous Wirth circus family, including an amazing, century old photo of the world renowned equestrienne May Wirth, tumbling backwards from one

galloping horse to another.

Meanwhile, the basement hosts a collection of odd coin-operated animatronics. Down here the skull of truth will tell your fortune while Tommy will throw a tantrum for the right price.This is an exploration and adventure through the colour, joy, eccentricity and chicanery of itinerant performance in an Australian setting.The opportunity to play, combined with the carnivalesque atmosphere is a reminder of older times when entertainment was not confined within a hand held device. (LR) Until May 3, Powerhouse Museum, 500 Harris St, Ultimo, $35/Free for up to 3 children, powerhousemuseum.com city hub 19 MARch 2015

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lEvIAThAN

‘71

Audiences will be lured by the dark side of human nature, as this pessimistic story of an array of unlikeable and negative characters unfolds.

When his property is falsely repossessed by a corrupt mayor, Kolya’s (Alexei Serebriakou) world is turned upside down and further compounded by blind love, false friendships and misguided truth.

Long and laborious, further complicated by quick-flowing subtitles, this modern day tragedy is strangely effective as it de-glorifies relationships and society in general.

Stereotyped Russian characters whose abhorrent overuse of alcohol and cigarettes complement the repressed mood of the film, are brilliantly portrayed by a cast little known outside Russia.

Visually stunning photography of barren and isolated landscapes is also cleverly utilised to highlight the pervading moral desolation.

Audiences will be divided by this award winning film about faith, power and corruption. (MMo) WWW½

From Ireland comes this small and confronting war drama that will shock and horrify audiences.

Set in 1971, the story unfolds over one night as a soldier is accidently abandoned in Belfast during hostile riots. His plight for survival and the tragedy that await those innocent bystanders who come to his aid are explored.

Powerful direction, an intense screenplay and a brilliant performance from Jack O’connell (Unbroken) as soldier Gary Hook ensure momentum is maintained, further fuelled by graphic violence and detailed medical procedures.

The demonstration scenes are effectively depicted adding to the dark and miserable nature of this film.

This heart-stopping suspense thriller de-glorifies war and resonates that ultimately there are no winners in warfare. (MMo) WWW½

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

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

Acclaimed documentary-maker Laura Poitras is contacted by a mysterious ‘citizenfour’ and they meet in Hong Kong, in June 2013, where he presents classified documents to prove his story. But how you take something this momentous and make the account dull is a strange achievement indeed? Perhaps the scoop aspect overwhelmed some of the niceties of film-making. Everyone should know the message of Edward 20

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(JH) WWWW

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

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

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

(MMo)WWW THAT SUgAR FIlM This is the film which the food industry may not want people to see.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SYdNEY lIvE MuSIC guIdE lIvE WIRE

BY JAMIE APPS Francisco’s Fortune: Sydney based indie-pop outfit set to launch their latest single The Bells this week.A brainchild of multi-instrumentalist and singer Manik Mayadunne came into being in 2014 when Mayadunne stepped away from full-time medicine to follow his music passion. Since then the project has moved ahead by leaps and bounds.

Thu, Mar 19,The Oxford Arts Factory Taylor McFerrin: Red Bull Music Academy Club Nights return this weekend with American multiinstrumentalist and produce Taylor McFerrin. For this special live performance McFerrin will be playing his much praised debut album Early Riser solo in what is sure to be an enthralling show.

Sat, Mar 21, Goodgod Small Club Owen Pallett: All round musician Owen Pallett commands precise control over multiple facets of his music from violin, keyboard, singing vocals and the overall composition.The Canadian man of many talents will return to Australia this week for a brief run of intimate shows showcasing his acclaim In Conflict.

By Combining his many talents Pallett is able to virtually become a one-man orchestra converting his dense polyphonic pop tunes into an enthralling live show.

Sat, Mar 21, Oxford Art Factory Gallery Bar

JJ gREY ANd MoFRo

Mitch grainger:World renowned blues harmonica player andAustralian roots-music poet Mitch Grainger is set to embark on the next path of his journey this weekend with a special one off show.This new path sees him releasingThe Blues,an album on his own label to mark the 25th anniversary of his debut.

Throughout the years Grainger has worked with many greats in the blues scene whilst also carving his own niche internationally.This show is a rare opportunity forAustralian fans to catch him on his home soil.

Sun,Mar 22,Petersham Bowling Club Song OfThe Stars:Spanish born concert pianist Carolina Estrada is set to perform a historical show featuring theAustralian premiere of Cant de les Estrelelles (Song Of The Stars) by Enrique Granados on the anniversary of his death.Thought to have been lost forever this composition,for organ, three choirs and piano,was discovered after 100 years of searching.

Tue,Mar 24,Sydney Conservatorium Of Music

BY JAMIE APPS “Whether it’s our show, writing songs or life in general, I feel like I’m on a sail boat. I’m not in charge of the wind or ocean and I can only man the rudder. I feel like I steer a little bit then coast a little while before I have to steer a little bit more. Rather than forcing myself through the ocean, I like to just let it happen and the same goes for the stories and story telling in our music.” This is the perfect analogy for JJ Grey, the true epitome of a southern blues rock gentleman.

The internationally celebrated group is set to return down under for a run of shows after a long absence.“It’s been six years since we were last there, I love Australia and I’m really looking forward to coming back,” said JJ Grey. Firstly at Bluesfest in Byron Bay, and then for a more intimate show at Sydney’s The Basement.“They both have certain things that I really like. In the smaller venue, you have the intimacy then at the bigger shows, you have the really festive feeling,

liam gale andThe Ponytails:After releasing two singles in 2014 this 6-piece blues band continue to build moment as they progress ever closer to the release of their debut album inApril.This weekend they plan to pick up more steam by showcasing their talents and new track Soldiers.Interweaving cryptic storytelling with raw,organic percussion they prove to be a truly special group in the scene.

Wed,Mar 25,Batch Brewery Marrickville

so I try to look for both of those elements in each.” said Grey.

The group will be here to celebrate the recent release of their new album Ol’ Glory, which they have been working on for quiet some time.“I couldn‘t give you an exact date, but it was some time during the recording of our last album, if things started clicking and a piece of gear broke or we had to stop, I would sit at the piano and

songs would start happening” said Grey.

For Grey, the recording process is very much a case of trial and error in order to let the songs and stories develop naturally.This is aided by the fact that he has his own recording studio set up on his property which allows him to “really tinker and mess with it and sort of fail if you will a couple of times before I really get it right.”

This mind set tends to carry over into the live performance also.“For me, a show is about sharing an honest moment with the audience and the guys on stage,” Grey said when speaking about his hatred for the “work” aspect of soundcheck and rehearsals.When asked to describe the show to fans, Grey said “Wow that’s really tough but for me, some of the things I love about a live show, not even necessarily ours, are whenever the artist can maybe make you feel their pain. Make you laugh, dance or cry like a good book or movie and those are the things I hope we can make happen.”

Apr 6,The Basement, 29 Relby Place, Circular Quay, $45+b.f, thebasement.com.au

CANCER BATS SEARChINg FoR zERo After taking 2014 off to recuperate following a gruelling touring schedule in 2013, Canadian hardcore punks Cancer Bats re-emerge on the scene with their fifth album.

Immediately, the band makes it clear what should be expected from the remainder of the album.

Opener Satellites is a fast paced entree of hardcore smashing into more traditional metal.

Unfortunately, the album continues down this paint by numbers path as the group is seemingly afraid to step off the beaten path. There are a few bright sparks on tracks Arsenic In The Year Of The Snake and the fast paced Devil’s Blood. (JA) WW½

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Alex Greenwich

MP, Independent Member for Sydney (confirmed)

When: Tuesday 24th March 2015 6.30pm for 7.00pm

Edwina Lloyd

Candidate for the Australian Labor Party (confirmed)

Chris Brentin

Candidate for the Greens (confirmed)

Where: The Beauchamp

(corner of Oxford Street and South Dowling, Darlinghurst)

Presented by: The Alternative Media Group of Australia | The Beauchamp Hotel Supported by: The Darlinghurst Business Partnership | The Paddington Business Partnership

city hub 19 MARch 2015

21

FREEWILLASTROLOGY act now. You‘re primed to make a big push toward the finish line.

by Rob bRezsny

a

ARIES (March 21-April 19): You‘re entering a time and space known as the Adlib Zone.

In this territory, fertile chaos and inspirational uncertainty are freely available. Improvised formulas will generate stronger mojo than timeworn maxims.

Creativity is de rigueur, and street smarts count for more than book-learning. May I offer some mottoes to live by when “common sense” is inadequate?

1. Don‘t be a slave to necessity.

2. Be as slippery as you can be and still maintain your integrity.

3. Don‘t just question authority; be thrilled about every chance you get to also question habit, tradition, fashion, trendiness, apathy, and dogma.

b

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You have recently been to the mountaintop, at least metaphorically. Right?

You wandered out to the high frontier and ruminated on the state of your fate from the most expansive vista you could find.

Right? You have questioned the limitations you had previously accepted, and you have weaned yourself from at least one of your devitalizing comforts, and you have explored certain

d

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): According to the international code of food standards, there are 13 possible sizes for an olive. They include large, extra large, jumbo, extra jumbo, giant, colossal, super colossal, mammoth, and super mammoth. If I had my way, Leo, you would apply this mind-set to everything you do in the coming weeks. It‘s time for you to think very big. You will thrive as you expand your mind, stretch your boundaries, increase your territory, amplify your selfexpression, magnify your focus, and broaden your innocence.

e

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “Half the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough,” proclaimed humorist Josh Billings.

That‘s an exaggeration made for comic effect, of course. (And I think that some of life‘s troubles also come from saying no too much and not saying yes enough.)

But for you, Virgo, Billings‘ advice will be especially pertinent in the coming weeks. In fact, my hypothesis is that you will be able to keep your troubles to a minimum and boost your progress to a maximum by being frugal with yes and ample with no.

f

g

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Your mind says, “I need more room to move. I‘ve got to feel free to experiment.” Your heart says, “I think maybe I need more commitment and certainty.” Your astrologer suggests, “Be a bit more skeptical about the dream lover who seems to be interfering with your efforts to bond with the Real Thing.” I‘m not sure which of these three sources you should heed, Libra. Do you think it might somehow be possible to honor them all? I invite you to try.

of Creation, Invention, and Discovery. In other words, inspiration is a relatively small part of the creative process.

Over the long haul, the more important factors are selfdiscipline, organized thinking, hard work, and attention to detail. And yet inspiration isn‘t irrelevant, either. Brainstorms and periodic leaps of insight can be highly useful. That‘s a good reminder as you enter a phase when you‘re likely to be more imaginative and original than usual. I expect creative excitement to be a regular visitor.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “Without your wound where would your power be?” asked writer Thornton Wilder.

“The very angels themselves cannot persuade the wretched and blundering children on earth as can one human being broken on the wheels of living.”

Let‘s make that one of your ongoing meditations, Scorpio.

I think the coming weeks will be an excellent time to come to a greater appreciation for your past losses. What capacities has your suffering given birth to? What failures have made you stronger? What crucial lessons and unexpected benefits have emerged from your sadness and madness?

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The fictional detective Sherlock Holmes was a good Capricorn, born January 6, 1854. In the course of Arthur Conan Doyle‘s 60 stories about his life, he revealed his exceptional talent as an analytical thinker. His attention to details was essential to his success, and so was his expertise at gathering information. He did have a problem with addictive drugs, however. Morphine tempted him now and then, and cocaine more often, usually when he wasn‘t feeling sufficiently challenged. Let this serve as a gentle warning, Capricorn. In the coming weeks, seek more relaxation and downtime than usual. Focus on recharging your psychic batteries. But please be sure that doesn‘t cause you to get bored and then dabble with self-sabotaging stimuli.

h

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “Creating is not magic but work,” says Kevin Ashton, author of the book How to Fly a Horse: The Secret History

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TAURUS (April 20-May 20): By 1993, rock band Guns N‘ Roses had released five successful albums. But on the way to record their next masterpiece, there were numerous delays and diversions.

Band members feuded. Some were fired and others departed.

Eventually, only one original member remained to bring the task to conclusion with the help of new musicians. The sixth album, Chinese Democracy, finally emerged in 2008. I‘m seeing a similarity between Guns N‘ Roses‘ process and one of your ongoing projects, Taurus.

The good news is that I think most of the hassles and delays are behind you, or will be if you

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): The anonymous blogger at Neurolove.me gives advice on how to love a Gemini: “Don‘t get impatient with their distractibility.

Always make time for great conversation. Be understanding when they‘re moody. Help them move past their insecurities, and tell them it‘s not their job to please everyone. Let them have space but never let them be lonely.” I endorse all that good counsel, and add this: “To love Geminis, listen to them attentively, and with expansive flexibility. Don‘t try to force them to be consistent; encourage them to experiment at uniting their sometimes conflicting urges. As best as you can, express appreciation not just for the parts of them that are easy to love but also for the parts that are not yet ripe or charming.”

Now feel free, Gemini, to show this horoscope to those whose affection you want.

C

possibilities that had been taboo. Right? So what comes next? Here‘s what I suggest: Start building a new framework or structure or system that will incorporate all that you‘ve learned during your break.

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PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Do you need a reason to think sharper and work smarter and try harder? I‘ll give you four reasons. 1.

Because you‘re finally ready to get healing for the inner saboteur who in the past has undermined your confidence. 2. Because you‘re finally ready to see the objective truth about one of your self-doubts, which is that it‘s a delusion. 3.

Because you‘re finally ready to stop blaming an adversary for a certain obstacle you face, which means the obstacle will become easier to overcome. 4. Because you‘re finally ready to understand that in order to nurture and hone your ample creativity, you have to use it to improve your life on a regular basis.

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AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): English is my first language.

Years ago there was a time when I spoke a lot of French with my Parisian girlfriend, but my skill faded after we broke up. So I‘m not bilingual in the usual sense.

But I do have some mastery in the language of music, thanks to my career as a singer-songwriter.

Having raised a daughter, I also learned to converse in the language of children. And I‘ve remembered and worked with my nightly dreams every day for decades, so I speak the language of dreams. What about you, Aquarius? In the coming weeks, I bet you‘ll be challenged to make more extensive use of one of your second languages. It‘s time to be adaptable and resourceful in your approach to communication.

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Opportunities in print and online are available to opinion makers and up and coming journalists.

Send a CV, writing samples and a covering letter to: cityhub@alternativemediagroup.com

THE BEST MASSAGE PLACE FOR THE FIRST TIME CUSTOMER AND THE FIRST TIME LADY!

It’s Famous, It’s Here and It’s Great !

Kings Court Massage: The only place with twenty two massage rooms and eleven hot tubs, spas, and bubble baths. Wall to wall beautiful ladies, pool tables and luxurious leather lounges. Enjoy a coffee in the friendly atmosphere. Approachable managers help you choose a lady for your massage. There is a fair queueing system and no hidden charges. Call at 261 Parramatta Rd, Glebe, Sydney NSW 2007, 02 9660 0666 Its an $8.00 Taxi from the CBD - Visit us at www.kingscourt.com.au - OPEN 10 am to 1 am and 24 hrs on Weekends. 20% off 9am to 12 noon & FREE ENTRY before 9 pm each day. Park in the Broadway Shops near our discreet rear entrance at 18 Grose St Glebe. www.kingscourt.com.au Hi, this is Big John the owner of Kings Court Massage.

Kings Court really does look this good. We are in Broadway just down from Glebe Point Road. The front looks like a two story building with a red neon sign while from the back in Grose Street it is four stories, also with a red neon sign. It is enormous; as big as a small RSL club. This is because in the early days Broadway was a depressed area with low rent. In Sydney there were massage places everywhere, even though it was illegal, so it was easy for Kings Court to be the best one. All we had to do was stay doing massage and a hand job and treat the girls well. We had the best most beautiful masseuses and the best most beautiful place and it was all harmless fun!

So what has changed? All the other massage places changed when legalization came.

For us nothing changed – we still have young ladies who do massage with a thrill at the end. The earlier customers were a different kind of men. They drank more and liked to play pool. They were short of money and had plenty of time. They were “baby boomers” who are now mostly too old for chasing young women.

Today the customers look for us on the Internet and are very well informed when they arrive. They know in advance that we only have massage ladies for their enjoyment. The major difference to those from before is that today they are short of time and have more money. They are younger and the girls say they are all sweety-pies!

The well-informed customer of today, researches through a lot of miss-information on the Internet to find us.

Many know about us from a friend because it is not so embarrassing to talk about our place as it is just harmless fun. We have tightened up and do not start ladies from other places that do more. We have the very best place for the first time customer to come and meet the first time massage girl.

At the time of legalization there was a Royal Commission that found some naughty police were getting money from the sex industry and this was stopped. The funny thing is that without the police coming around hundreds of illegal full service places opened and all the massage places crossed over and became full service places.

For Kings Count Massage this means that there is no more adult massage industry and we are the last real “massage and happy ending” place to exist in Sydney. Unlike other massage places Kings Court does not turn a “blind eye” to girls becoming full or part time full service workers in the room. Other places are very nice and do offer a full range of services to the clients with some ladies selecting the clients they like.

The best way to be liked by the charming ladies from other places is to offer extra money for the extra service but this does not work at Kings Court. We say to customers: “It is okay to ask, but its bad manners to be unhappy when the answer is NO.” The funny thing is that since the police stopped coming around there has been a massive explosion of small illegal places and there are hundreds more. This is good for the customers, as prices have not increased very much in the last ten years. The larger places have however been visited by the Tax Department and are mostly Tax Compliant. To protect their investment they have also applied for Council Development Application approvals. Kings Court was actually the very first legal place in NSW but our prices are affected by smaller places and places with foreign workers. We do have some people from other countries but they are residents who in the main are able to sit in the spa and chat with customers before giving them the sensuous massage with the “happy ending” You are invited to call in for a coffee and meet the ladies.

It really is not like other places. Some clients were dissappointed as they had wanted the ladies to look like high class escorts but they only met normal pretty girl-next-door types.

I hope that some of the above gives you an idea about the way Kings Court Massage is run and about about our ethics.

Big John P.S. Kings Court Adverts are created from real things that happened! A guy named Judd had been to the Bathurst car races and to make a trip of it he came to Kings Court from a comic ad he had seen in a men’s magazine. I particularly liked creating that ad as, like Judd, I was a North Qld Stockman and the guy in the white hat is myself drawn from a scene in a very old photo.

VACANCIES: We are currently looking for new ladies who would like to be a little bit naughty and join us to learn massage. You enjoy cash paid daily and we have permanent and part time shifts to fit with a busy life as a student or young mother.

We can provide off street parking when you start. A more experienced lady will provide training. You are welcome to call at 261 Parramatta Rd, Glebe NSW 2037 for a look around and meet some of the other girls. You can phone us on 02 9660 0666 Parking is available in the Broadway Shopping Centre (3 hrs free) near our discreet rear entrance at 18 Grose St Glebe NSW 2037 which is the best location to find us by GPS plotting. www.kingscourt.com.au is the website with lots of info, jokes and some pics of sexy women (not ours) just to look at. If you are new check the “ten tips.” city hub 19 MARch 2015

23

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