TANYA PLIBERSEK
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR SYDNEY
THE ALBANESE GOVERNMENT’S PLAN FOR A MORE RENEWABLE AND SUSTAINABLE ECONOMY
Australia is a step closer to manufacturing more reliable renewables at home, with the Albanese Government’s $1 billion Solar Sunshot program.
We’ve always been a solar powerhouse – the ideas invented here have lit the way for the global energy transformation already underway.
But while one in three Australian households have solar – the highest take-up in the world – only one per cent of those solar panels have been made in Australia.
That’s why we’re investing in Australia’s solar capability with targeted funding to support a Future Made In Australia, creating quality jobs for Australian workers and a more resilient supply chain.
The International Energy Agency estimates 1300 manufacturing jobs for each gigawatt of solar PV production, meaning a supercharged domestic industry will create thousands of jobs in Australia.
Initiatives like Solar Sunshot will build capability in the energy supply chains of the future, and support more manufacturing opportunities across the country driven by our renewable transformation.
The first $550 million, administered by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), will support the commercialisation of Australian solar photovoltaic (PV) innovations and scale up Australian solar PV manufacturing.
These technologies are critical to Australia’s energy security through the net zero transformation.
We know there is strong interest from business to work with the Government to make more critical energy hardware here including high tech Australian start-ups, local fabricators and material suppliers, and international investors.
RENEWABLE ENERGY POWERING A FUTURE REMADE IN AUSTRALIA
Only the Albanese Government is backing businesses across the country to seize the opportunity of a Future Made in Australia, powered by reliable renewables and a waste-reducing, circular economy.
In a circular economy, materials and products are kept in use longer by designing longer lasting and recyclable materials by cutting waste and by recycling infrastructure.
Australia has the third highest material footprint per capita in the OECD, and the fourth lowest rate of materials productivity. The most recent National Waste Report shows that Australian households and businesses generate the equivalent of almost three tonnes of waste per person, per year.
We want sustainable solutions that are good for the environment and good for business – that cut waste going to landfill and encourage efficient use of raw materials.
This transition requires innovative thinking from governments and businesses which is why we’ve asked the Productivity Commission to investigate boosting circularity across the economy.
By re-using, recycling and repairing more of our waste, we can create more opportunities right through the supply chain for Australian companies and Australian workers.
It’s about looking into new ways to add value to our material resources, creating more jobs and more opportunities for more people.
Better quality and longer lasting products and better labelling of these products are also good for consumers, reducing the need to throw away and replace poorly made goods.
The Albanese Government is doubling Australia’s recycling capacity for a Future Made In Australia and a Future Remade in Australia.
Sydney Can’t Get Enough
Of New Metro Line
(See p.8)
HUBARTS: QUIET RESONANCE
Learn about Lee Ufan’s massive Sydney exhibition (See p.20)
Tensions Flare Over Oxford Street
BY JACK NIVISON
Anumber of heated exchanges took place at the Rainbow Precinct Mayoral Candidates forum at the National Art School on Tuesday August 27, 2024.
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Hosted by the Committee of Rainbow Precinct, the forum heard from Sydney’s ten mayoral candidates about their plans to help revitalise the area’s waning nightlife.
Some 150 crowd members gathered to listen to the candidates each give a two-minute pitch on what they hoped to achieve before each candidate was given a chance to respond to a number of questions – first, by the moderator Melissa Hoyer, and then by the audience.
As the candidates took the stage for their respective pitches, a giant red digital clock loomed overhead, although that didn’t seem to matter – nearly all speakers went over time.
Incumbent mayor Clover Moore continued to reiterate that “the stars are aligning for Oxford Street,” but was the subject of consistent heckling, both from fellow councillors and from a large number of vocal crowd members.
“It’s well-known that when there is increased foot traffic and increased cycling, there is increased business,” she said in defence of her council’s decision to run a bike lane down the western side of Oxford Street.
“Just have a look at those other cities where it is so successful, and business thrives.”
According to one Gen-Z audience member who got up to ask a question, that foot traffic has yet to manifest.
SYDNEY
NIGHTLIFE IN FOCUS
The area’s nightlife has suffered significantly in the wake of both lockout laws and COVID-19, with over 176 businesses being forced to close their doors and many others made to operate within more restrictive hours.
Both Liberal councillor Lyndon Gannon and Libertarian Sean Masters
drew attention to the recent banning of alfresco drinking in front of the Old Fitzroy Hotel and agreed that alfresco drinking was something to be
Lord Mayor Clover Moore continued to reiterate that “the stars are aligning for Oxford Street.
encouraged rather than restricted.
While Labor candidate Zann Maxwell was unable to attend due to a commitment to a fundraiser, Mitch Wilson stood in his place and advocated for an improved regulatory environment for businesses in Sydney.
“I work in nightlife policy every day of the week and I know what’s holding us back. That’s why Labor is committed to declaring five special entertainment precincts across the city if elected, including on Oxford Street,” they said.
Lord Mayor Moore was heckled again when she claimed that Sydney’s laneways and bars were ahead of Melbourne.
BIKE LANES CRITICISED
Independent candidate Sam Danieli expressed his discontent with the establishment of bike lanes.
“It’s not about whether someone’s done a bad job or a good job…it is a record never to be broken… the answer of the incumbent mayor is to make (Oxford Street) greener and put bike lanes in, and that is certainly not the way forward,” he said.
Sue Ritchie placed a strong focus on the need for aesthetic revitalisation of Oxford Street during her time with the microphone and said she would introduce an initiative where fairy lights would be displayed on shop fronts to make them more attractive to passers-by.
TACKLING HOMOPHOBIA ON OXFORD STREET
On the topic of safety and how best to handle homophobic behaviour on Oxford Street, councillors were divided. Mayor Moore and Greens candidate Sylvie Elsmore clashed as to whether there was a need for a police-led or community-led response, and socialist alliance candidate Rachel Evans suggested that “guardian angels,” – civilian vigilantes – were the more appropriate solution.
Independent candidate Baiyu Chen suggested that Police being obligated to identify themselves was cause enough to ease concerns over their behaviour.
(Clockwise m left - Yvonne Weldon, Sam Danieli, Clover Moore, Sylvie Ellsmore. Photos: Facebook
NSW Trialling Robotic Vehicles On Sydney Roads
BY SHIBU THOMAS
Two self-driving robotic vehicles are currently cruising through a Sydney neighborhood in an Australian-first intelligent transport trial aimed at making our roads safer.
The robotic driverless vehicles, designed by researchers at the University of Sydney’s Australian Centre for Robotics, communicate directly with “talking” traffic lights as they navigate the streets of Chippendale in this live traffic trial. The traffic lights are powered by Transport for NSW’s home-grown Sydney Coordinated Adaptive Traffic System (SCATS).
“It’s great to have something here in Sydney that we can test under Australian conditions,” Dr. Stewart Worrall, senior researcher in the Australian Centre for Robotics, said in a statement. “This technology isn’t just about autonomy; it’s also about developing advanced driver assistance systems that can help drivers make better, safer decisions on the road.”
HOW DOES THE TECHNOLOGY WORK?
At the core of the trial is cutting-edge vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) technology
that aims to feed real-time data about pedestrians, cyclists, motorists, and traffic signal changes to both driverless and manually operated vehicles.
As cars get smarter, there’s the opportunity to make them safer and save lives.
When the vehicle approaches an intersection, the Cit-e software, currently under development, sends information to a receiver in the vehicle. The data includes “the intersection’s layout, right
of way, the timing of signal changes, and any warnings of imminent hazards, including vulnerable road users.”
The receiver uses this information along with the vehicle’s position, direction, and speed to calculate whether it is likely to commit a red-light violation or endanger other road users.
According to Transport for NSW and the Australian Centre for Robotics, this technology could improve road safety even before the arrival of driverless vehicles in the future. The Cit-e software is expected to be launched in 2025, and
it will be possible to retrofit it to standard vehicles.
SMART CAR INNOVATION
“As cars get smarter, there’s the opportunity to make them safer and save lives on NSW roads,” said Minister for Roads, John Graham.
“This innovative technology will put NSW at the forefront of the national conversation on smart car innovation and road safety. This vehicle-toinfrastructure technology can make a difference now, years before driverless vehicles become the norm because it can be retrofitted to existing intersections and built into the cars of today,” said Graham.
Secretary of Transport for NSW, Josh Murray, emphasised that the technology will “future-proof our traffic network and prepare our roads for an automated driving future.”
“These new trials help us understand the challenges and demonstrate the feasibility of introducing emerging technology so we’re able to channel it in our day-to-day running of the network,” added Murray.
Driverless robotic vehicles. Image: Australian Centre for Robotics, University of Sydney.
Mediterranean Magic
Greek Restaurant and Bar on the waterfront at Jones Bay Wharf Pyrmont
COVID-Era Ban Lifted
BY SHIBU THOMAS
Outdated restrictions, like a ban on standing and sipping a beer outside a pub, are on their way out as the NSW government pushes to cut red tape and breathe new life into the state’s nightlife.
“For too long Sydney’s nightlife has been strangled by red tape,” NSW Premier Chris Minns announced in a press statement in August. “We’re fixing this by removing the restrictions, destroying entertainment venues, tackling the housing crisis head-on, and helping the city get back on its feet”
Adults should be trusted to choose whether they stand or sit while having a drink.
“Having an economy that fires up at 5 pm during the week is critical for global cities like Sydney,” added the Premier. The current rule that patrons must be seated while consuming alcohol outdoors was introduced during the COVID pandemic, as part of
regulations to promote outdoor dining. However, after the lifting of pandemicera restrictions, the rules were panned for being a hindrance to the hospitality sector. Around 145 licensed venues, that includes 60 pubs, clubs, and small bars, are currently affected by the ban, which is now being scrapped.
The changes to the Liquor Act will mean that licensed venues will have to meet safety and compliance standards but will no longer be saddled with a blanket condition that stipulates patrons must sit down to consume alcohol in outdoor areas.
According to John Graham, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, the blanket ban had no place in 2024. “Adults should be trusted to choose whether they stand or sit while having a drink,” Graham said, reiterating that the government was “getting the social scene back on its feet in Sydney and right across NSW.”
NSW’S NIGHTLIFE VIBRANCY REFORMS
The lifting of the ban on standing and drinking outside licensed venues will form part of phase two of the government’s Vibrancy Reforms.
The first phase saw changes to regulations. These included:
• Permanent Outdoor Dining Provisions: The temporary measures allowing outdoor dining were made permanent, providing venues with greater flexibility.
• Noise Complaint Reforms: Signalling a balanced approach to noise management, the government ended the practice of single neighbour noise complaints that could shut down local pubs and licensed venues.
• Streamlined Event Approvals: The Open Streets program was introduced to facilitate easier activation of streets for festivals and events.
• Expanded Special Entertainment Precincts: Local councils were empowered to modify noise and opening hour regulations in designated areas to support live entertainment and nightlife.
• Incentives for Live Music: Venues offering live music were offered extended trading hours and significant reductions in liquor licence fees.
• Easier Pathways for Major Events: New rules simplified the process for extending trading hours during significant events such as the Olympics and World Cups.
Save inner west public school sport
No matter where they live or what their family’s income is, every child in NSW should have access to a well-rounded and high quality public education. This includes access to programs and extracurricular activities that help them grow and thrive beyond the classroomlike team sports.
Recently, I was shocked by revelations that 12 public schools in the inner west have been forced to pull out of their regular inter school sports competitions because they can no longer afford bus transportation there and back.
Meanwhile, private schools just down the road are splashing cash on increasingly lavish facilities like altitude training chambers, tennis courts, and Olympic swimming pools. The divide between private and public schools in NSW is massive, and growing by the day.
Yet even as inequality worsens and the
cost of living continues to climb, the Albanese Federal Labor Government is choosing to continue the Coalition-era policy of handing out billions of public dollars to already-wealthy public schools.
Since 2017, private schools have taken more than $1 billion in public fundingan outrageous sum made even worse by the fact that the NSW Department of Education has ripped nearly $500 million from public school funding this year alone.
It is the state government’s responsibility to fund comprehensive, public education that supports every child in NSW to learn and flourish, including by participating in team sport.
Team sport keeps kids active, social, and healthy, and also teaches vital skills like teamwork and how to cooperate toward a common goal. Every child should be
able to play sport if they want to, regardless of how deep their family’s pockets may be.
That’s why the Greens are calling on the Premier to provide free buses for public school sport in the inner west and beyond and establish a minimum standard for school sporting infrastructure.
Sign the petition and urge the Premier to support all public school students to participate in sports and provide free bus transport to and from games. Scan the QR code below or add your name at jennyleong.org/saveschoolsport
Photo: Pixabay
Jenny Leong MP Greens Member for Newtown
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New Metro Line Is A Boon To The Inner City
BY WILL THORPE
Near the historic Lord Nelson Hotel in The Rocks, Sydney’s oldest and newest developments collide. Some of Australia’s oldest watering holes are towered over by the glass skyscrapers of Barangaroo. Straddling them both is one of the city’s newlyopened metro stations, its impact evidenced by the Wednesday evening crowd at the pub.
In just the first week of Sydney Metro City’s operation, Sydneysiders came out in force, with 1.4 million trips made on the line which now extends from the once-isolated Hills District below the harbour to Sydenham in the Inner West. The jubilation surrounding it has made the train line Sydney’s hottest attraction, something many might have considered unlikely for a piece of infrastructure.
Inner city businesses and residents for the first time have close access to rapid transit, a feature of many metropolitan centres overseas – and it is already transforming parts of the city that were once neglected. The line is central to urban renewal in Barangaroo and Waterloo, the site of significant housing development. Housing and shopping precincts are also being developed above Gadigal, Martin Place, and Victoria Cross stations.
Easier access for inner-city residents to the commercial areas of North Sydney, Chatswood, and Macquarie Centre precedes improved access to Bankstown which will come with the line’s final extension next year. When the
for
will
Inner city businesses and residents for the first time have close access to rapid transit.
Transport experts and the general public alike have hailed the new line.
Kasun Wijayaratna, Senior Lecturer at UTS’ School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, emphasised the “greater choice” the line has afforded travellers by providing alternative routes and stations.
“In the past, when using the rail network, your only options to transfer were at Town Hall, Wynyard, and Central. However, the addition of Metro City has released the pressure of these transfer points … [thus] leading to extra capacity, greater demand distribution, and better levels of service for all commuters,” Wijayaratna noted.
“It is a historic set of projects, much needed by a growing city, and I am very excited to see the continuation of the development of the network.”
THE PRICE OF PROGRESS
There have been some losers, as the metro draws commuters away from City Circle stations and their adjoining businesses. Passenger numbers at North Sydney station were down 37 percent on Sydney Metro City’s second day of operation compared to a week prior. Town Hall saw a twelve percent reduction. This may be the price of progress.
Professor John Nelson, Chair in Public Transport at the University of Sydney’s Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies, emphasised the need for development around stations to make the most of the trains.
A second metro line into the city centre is presently under construction, expected to open in 2032. Sydney Metro West will connect the central business district to burgeoning Western Sydney, stopping at Parramatta before terminating at Westmead. The development of commercial and housing precincts around stations should follow, particularly for Metro West, Nelson said.
But the metro cannot exist in a vacuum. Professor Nelson stressed that there should be a seamless transition between modes of transport. “Wouldn’t it be great if Sydney Metro invested in shared micromobility (e-bikes and e-scooters) to enable first and last-mile connectivity to stations?”
PASSENGERS CAN’T GET ENOUGH OF NEW METRO LINE
He noted that bus rapid transit and light rail lines can be developed at a fraction of the cost of a metro or heavy rail line, all of which have their place in a big city. The metro now connects to the light rail lines serving the Inner West and Eastern Suburbs. Ultimately, Nelson expressed optimism for the underconstruction Metro West line.
“Sydney Metro West can be expected to bring benefits to inner city residents. Doubling rail capacity between Parramatta and Sydney CBD is a good thing,” Nelson commented.
Meanwhile, Sydney Metro has not been shy about the success of the recently completed city project, remarking in a press release that “passengers can’t get enough of their new fast and reliable metro journeys.” Indeed, Sydneysiders cannot get enough of our latest piece of shiny infrastructure. The new line is a win for everyone who lives in or travels to the city centre and its surrounding suburbs. Development that is conscious of its presence is necessary to make the most of it.
As for right now, the pub-goers in Sydney’s historic heart are the happy beneficiaries of a train line that has brought Sydney’s new and old together.
Bankstown line is closed
conversion on September 30, frequencies
improve across the Sydney Trains network, including at inner-city stations.
Photo: Sydney Metro
Photo: Sydney Metro
Traces Of ‘Forever Chemicals’ In Sydney Water
BY HOPE PRATT
Sydney Water has confirmed unsafe levels of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) — “forever chemicals” — have been found in several drinking water catchments, sparking discussion over Australia’s testing guidelines and policies.
Detected first in June the data was released later on their website. Sydney Water has confirmed that low levels of PFAS were detected in filtration plants at
Warragamba, Prospect Reservoir, and Orchard Hills. Higher levels were found at Cascade Dam in the Blue Mountains and North Richmond.
WHAT ARE PFAS?
PFAS refers to a group of over 14,000 human-made chemicals that do not degrade naturally.
These chemicals have been used since the 1950s in common household products such as non-stick frying pans, clothing, cosmetics, and insecticides, as
well as industrial products like firefighting foam. Because of this, they are found in almost everything and are nearly impossible to avoid.
However, exposure to PFAS over extended periods of time do pose health risks to humans, including some cancers, thyroid disease, and reduced kidney function.
PFAS were labelled a carcinogenic by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). In 2023, The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared PFOA (a type of PFAS) to be a category one human carcinogen.
AUSTRALIA’S LAX GUIDELINES
While the PFAS detections found by Sydney Water were within Australia’s guidelines for drinking water, these standards do not meet international consensus.
US standards require filtration systems to target five individual PFAS: PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and HFPO-DA. Of these five PFAS, 4 nanograms per litre (ng/L) are allowed to be present in water supplies.
Currently, Australia’s permitted level
for PFOS and PFHxS is 70 ng/L, while PFOA is limited to 560 ng/L.
This level is 140 times what is deemed safe by US standards and 280 times more than what is stated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).
RESTORE A SAFE WATER SUPPLY
This revelation prompted NSW Greens MP, Cate Faehrmann, to call for greater testing standards in Australia.
Australia’s drinking water guidelines have not been updated since 2022.
“The Government needs to come out today and assure Sydneysiders that their drinking water is safe, and if it isn’t, what steps will it take to urgently restore a safe water supply?” Faehrmann stated. Faehrmann also voiced the need for an independent investigation into Sydney’s drinking water.
“The Federal Government must urgently bring forward its review of Australia’s drinking water guidelines, which have not been updated since 2022.”
Photo: Sydney Water
Clover Moore And Her Challengers
BY DOUGLAS MAGALETTI
The last time Sydney had a new Lord Mayor was in 2004, when Clover Moore was elected to the top post. Over the next two decades and past four elections, contenders have attempted and failed to dislodge Moore.
This election a fresh batch of contenders will once again be vying to be City of Sydney’s Lord Mayor. CityHub looks at what Moore and her contenders are offering.
THE INCUMBENT
CLOVER MOORE - INDEPENDENT
Clover Moore is the incumbent Lord Mayor of the City of Sydney Council. Moore is the longest-serving, and the first woman elected Lord Mayor in City of Sydney’s history. If successful this will be her sixth term as Lord Mayor.
Moore shared on Instagram, “I am energised about our work transforming the City. There are reminders everywhere: award-winning parks and community facilities, busy bike lanes, thriving villages with greener and transformed high streets, light rail and pedestrianised George Street.”
“But the work to ensure the City is a great place to live, work and visit – with environmental, social and economic sustainability at its heart –is far from over.”
ZANN
MAXWELLLABOR
Zann Maxwell was born on Lord Howell Island.
At age seven, he moved to New Zealand with his mum. In 2011, Maxwell moved to Melbourne where he got a degree in postgraduate law, before moving to Sydney in 2017. Maxwell’s first political job was as an electorate officer for Bill Shorten, then the opposition leader.
A priority for Maxwell, a renter himself, is affordability and ensuring Sydney is accessible to everyone.
“Sydney now needs a stronger commitment to fairness and getting the basics right. That’s how we’ll build a Sydney that doesn’t just look great, but actually is great,” Maxwell told CityHub.
He continued, “My number one goal as Lord Mayor is a better deal for those of us who are locked out of Sydney by the affordability crisis.”
SYLVIE ELLSMOREGREENS
Sylvie Ellsmore, a resident of Darlington, is currently a Greens Councillor on the City of Sydney Council. She was the Deputy Mayor from 2022-2023 and Chair of the Council’s Housing for All Working Group.
Ellsmore was a councillor for Marrickville Council from 2012-2016, where she represented Newtown. She also has experience as a native title lawyer, senior policy manager and community organiser.
She is also a founding member of her local residents’ action group as well as a volunteer karate teacher.
“My number one goal is to ensure Council takes stronger action to address the housing affordability crisis,” Ellsmore said.
“Over the last twenty years, the gap between rich and poor has grown. Sydney has become the second most expensive city for housing in the world. This is the biggest threat to the city’s vibrancy and diversity.”
YVONNE WELDONINDEPENDENT
Yvonne Weldon is currently an Independent councillor on the City of Sydney Council. As a proud Wiradjuri woman, she became the
THE CHALLENGERS
first Aboriginal councillor on the City of Sydney Council. Weldon also has over thirty years experience volunteering with community organisations.”
“My primary goal is to lead on housing. As rents have soared, housing in the inner city has become unaffordable and too many in our community are being forced out.”
Weldon continued, “As Mayor, I’ll double the City’s Affordable Housing Fund to provide more homes for young people, essential workers, creatives and entrepreneurs. I’ll also require and incentivise major developments to include affordable rental housing built on site. And I’ll fight tooth and nail to retain existing affordable housing.”
LYNDON GANNONLIBERAL
Lyndon Gannon is a lifelong resident of Sydney, Elected in 2021, he is currently a Liberal Councillor on the City of Sydney Council.
Lyndon is a lifelong Sydney local and is passionate about making Sydney “the thriving Global City we used to know and love.”
“Our Emerald City should be about aspiration. It needs a leader who is ambitious for it and knows what its people want. I am the only one with the experience, energy, and proven track record of delivering for this important job,” Gannon told CityHub.
RACHEL EVANSSOCIALIST ALLIANCE
Rachel Evans is a lifelong activist. She is one of the founders of the grassroots marriage equality campaign. Evans is a disability support worker, involved in the Palestine solidarity movement. She also helped establish the City of Sydney for Palestine group.
SEAN MASTERSLIBERTARIAN
A Surry Hills resident for almost 30 years, Sean Masters works as a Creative Director with a background in advertising.
Sean’s number one priority if he wins is to “take the ideological garbage out of council so the council can get back to what it should be doing: taking out the garbage.”
SAM DANIELIINDEPENDENT
Sam Danieli is an accountant and principal of his own firm in Sydney’s CBD, with over 40 years of experience in business.
Danieli was the former Mayor of Warringah Council from 1996-1998 and has 8 years of council experience.
Danieli’s number one priority, if elected, is to “bring in fresh ideas about how Council is structured, for example, I will restructure town planning to have a dedicated affordable housing department or introduce an office of nightlife similar to New York City or London. And I will get rid of the rats!”
BAIYU JESSICA CHENINDEPENDENT
Baiyu Jessica Chen has a background in graphic design, fashion design, administration, retail service, marketing and communications.
“My priority for the City of Sydney is to change the legislation to allow commercial property to be used as residential property. This way the housing supply will increase immediately, demand on the real estate market will decrease, the rent will come down, and everyone will have more money in their hand after they pay for the basic bills, and it is good for the whole economy,” said Chen.
SUE RITCHIEINDEPENDENT
Sue Ritchie, a resident of the Oxford Street precinct, has 35 years of experience as a business owner as well as 20 years of corporate experience as an IT consultant specialising in strategic planning, change management, and project delivery.
“My number one goal as Lord Mayor would be to bring Oxford Street to life, from Hyde Park to Centennial Park, as a visually stimulating, diverse, edgy place, that creates happiness, self-expression and pride in Sydney, putting Oxford Street back on the global stage, where it belongs, as an internationally recognised LGBTQIA+ icon and brand for Sydney,” said Ritchie.
The City of Sydney Council Election is on September 14.
Bankstown Train Line Disruption
BY FRED RAHI
Sydney commuters who use the T3 Bankstown train line will have to deal with major disruptions to their transportation for potentially more than the originally estimated 12 months.
The Minns Labor government announced that upgrade works for the line will start on September 30, 2024, with completion expected, at best, in late 2025.
The T3 Bankstown Line from Sydenham to Bankstown will be closed to enable the final conversion of the 130-year-old line to modern metro standards. The upgrades will work to make the train line fit for Metro services as the construction of the South West Metro network connects the InnerWest to the North Shore.
Travellers who use the line should also be aware that parts of the T3 line, specifically between Campsie and Bankstown, will be closed before September 30 for “preparatory works” which start on September 21.
LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL
While NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen assured that “there is light at
the end of the tunnel”, the extended construction period is bound to be frustrating for travellers who must find alternative modes of transport now.
The Southwest Link will be a train replacement bus service that aims to reduce disruption. The service will provide frequent and fare-free buses for commuters who travelled the T3.
After the initial announcement of the Southwest Link, a concern was raised as
to whether the necessary driver positions would be filled before the service began operating. However, Haylen has assured that all positions have been filled in preparation for the 100 buses that will run the Bankstown to Sydenham route. Despite the efforts to reduce disruption with the Southwest Link, residents who rely on the T3 line and live in the surrounding areas will undoubtedly be affected.
Service NSW Marrickville has reopened
“We absolutely acknowledge this is going to be a disruptive time for the people of Canterbury Bankstown and for the Inner West,” said Haylen.
PEAK
HOUR DISRUPTIONS
The nuisance of traffic in peak times when travelling to and from work will be something that residents have to take into consideration for over a year. The benefits, though, will be more frequent train times and quicker travel time from Bankstown to Sydenham;
“What we’re seeing now with the Metro from Sydenham is five minute journeys into Central Station and a train every four minutes. With the metro conversion, those benefits will be shared along the line to Bankstown,” added Haylen.
This is going to be a disruptive time for the people of Canterbury, Bankstown and for the Inner West
Travellers will be hoping that completion is on time and that despite the disruptions, it will be worth it for improved travel in the future.
You’ll find us at our bigger, better location on Level 1 of Marrickville Metro.
Access services like driver knowledge and practical driving tests, driver licence applications and renewals, vehicle and vessel registration applications and transfers and more.
Find us at: Marrickville Metro Shopping Centre (near Coles) Level 1, 20 Smidmore Street
For more information visit service.nsw.gov.au or call 13 77 88
Photo: Sydney Metro
Labor Councillors Vote Down BDS Motion
BY WENDY BACON
Last month, Labor Councillors voted down a motion for an Inner West Council investigation into whether any of its investments and contracts benefit companies involved in the weapons industry or profit from human rights violations in Gaza and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
The motion was moved by Greens Councillor Dylan Griffiths and seconded by Independent Councillor Pauline Lockie. If passed, it would also have led to an adjustment of IWC’s ethical investment policy to exclude companies involved in human rights violations, including in Gaza and Occupied Palestine. The council’s current policy excludes investments in fossil fuels but not human rights abuses.
It was a moderate motion calling for an audit and reports before any steps were taken.
Inner West Labor’s defeat of the motion leaves the IWC out of step with the City of Sydney, BankstownCanterbury Council where Labor Councillors supported successful similar motions.
Mayor Darcy Byrne led the debate against the motion from the chair while the remaining Labor Councillors remained
silent. The motion’s defeat is the latest of many examples of how the Mayor and Inner West Labor have used their narrow majority of eight Councillors against seven Greens and Independents to control the Council’s agenda. The results of the coming election will determine whether they can continue to do so.
PROTESTERS CHANT ‘SHAME’
After the meeting, Mayor Darcy Byrne circulated a media statement that was quoted by News Corporation media outlets and Jwire, a Jewish online news service. These media reports contain many misleading statements.
The evening began with a peaceful protest organised by the community group InnerWest4Palestine. Speakers included Greens Councillor Dylan Griffiths who explained why he was moving the motion and John Gauci from Teachers for Palestine.
Speaking as a private citizen, Gauci told the protesters that many teachers across the whole education system supported the protest. “You can’t be an educator and not be appalled by what is happening.”
By 6.30 the public gallery was full. Byrne then delayed the start of the meeting and asked staff to invite protesters who remained outside into the meeting. The room became very
In moving the motion Clr Dylan Griffiths said that the motion was about the ethical use of Council rates. He referred to the International Court of Justice ruling that Israel is practicing apartheid and that the occupation of Palestine is unlawful and to the International Court of Justice’s finding that Israel is committing a plausible genocide.”.
Griffiths said that many people in the Inner West have told him that “they are deeply concerned that genocide is occurring in Gaza. They do not want their local council to do business with companies that profit from human rights abuses and violations of international law. He described Councillors as having a choice.
PROGRESSIVE COUNCILS HAVE TAKEN A STANCE
overcrowded with many people left standing. The Mayor stated in his media statement “that the protest continued for several hours inside the meeting” - the webcast soundtrack reveals that there was no continuing protest.
Immediately after the motion was defeated, some disappointed supporters of the motion began to chant ‘shame’ and other slogans at Labor Councillors.
People in the Inner West are deeply concerned that genocide is occurring in Gaza.
After the meeting, Clr Griffiths posted on Facebook, “I understand that the Mayor and Labor councillors are seeking to play up the behaviour of the public gallery. This is a distraction from the fact that local Labor was unable to bring themselves to support a motion that sought to embed a focus on human rights in the council’s procurement and investment policies. Attending local residents were upset at the political decision made by Labor councillors. No one was prevented from leaving, and members of the public dispersed themselves.”
Greens Councillor Liz Atkins spoke, responding to those who argue boycotts are not a local issue. “Local govt is about local issues but local issues are not as limited as some would have us think. Progressive councils have long taken a stance on broader issues, supported by their communities. In this term, we have passed resolutions on domestic and family violence, LGBTIQ+ issues, gambling harm minimisation and poker machines, renters’ rights, the Voice referendum, and continued contribution to the movement for Indigenous justice, fossil fuels, and Palestine.”
She described the Council’s role as twofold. Firstly to advocate and be a voice for their community to other levels of govt and secondly to “do locally what it can do to further its community’s views.
“Now it’s time to ensure that our investments and procurements are ethical and do not support weapons manufacturing or violations of human rights, including in Gaza or the other occupied Territories, or indeed anywhere else. This motion might be focused on Palestine but it takes a broader approach and would be equally applicable to Sudan, Myanmar, or human rights violations against the Kurds” InnerWest4Palestine activist Aiden Magro drew attention to IWC’s Council’s services contract with Hewlett Packard (HP) as an example of how it is currently complicit in supporting Israel’s military forces.
HP is one of the main targets of the BDS and BDS Australia. It has deep links with the Israeli state including providing services and technology to the Israeli army and police that maintain Israel’s illegal occupation of the West Bank and East Jerusalem, and the siege of Gaza. It maintains Israel’s central ID system and database for the Israeli police.
Photo: Wendy Bacon
Oxford Street Mall To Extend Business Hours To 3AM
BY CHRISTINE LAI
Sydneysiders could look forward to exciting changes as Bondi Junction’s Oxford Street mall is set to become a lively late-night destination with a new 3 AM trading rule.
Last month, Waverley Council voted to extend business opening hours until 3 am. This move aims to breathe new life into the area by transforming it into a vibrant late-night hub. Extending business hours is expected to enhance nighttime safety by increasing foot traffic and ensuring a more active and monitored presence on the streets.
Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos shared that the Council had listened to the community’s desire for a safer, more vibrant night time economy in Oxford Street Mall.
“What we’re aiming for is an attractive, buzzing space where locals will love to have dinner, and
that makes Bondi Junction a destination for an enjoyable evening out,” Masselos said.
Earlier this year, the council proposed extending trading hours to update and improve outdated planning regulations.
Eastern suburbs is a worldfamous tourism destination and our CBD should reflect that.
Waverley mayor Paula Masselos said the Eastern suburbs was a “worldfamous tourism destination and our CBD should reflect that”.
“It should not be a ghost town once people leave the office for the day,” she said in March.
“As a community, we’re also looking for ways to feel safer in our public spaces. We know from Transport for NSW’s (TfNSW) Safer Cities Survey Report that people feel safer in
activated public spaces, that are well-lit and with lots of people around,” Mayor Masselos said.
According to Transport for NSW’s Safer Cities Survey Report, 51% of participants
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said they would be more likely to go out at night alone if they felt safer.
“The Bondi Junction mall is well served with transport and is not immediately adjacent to people’s homes. It has had a history of nightlife which brings employment, music and other cultural activities to Waverley,” said Waverley Ward Greens councillor Ludovico Fabiano.
NOISE CONTROL MEASURES OUTLINED
Mayor Masselos acknowledged that businesses have expressed a need for more clarity to effectively create venues and services tailored to the nighttime economy.
She emphasised that this shift will occur gradually as businesses work to establish the “right mix of offerings for the community.”
Late-night businesses must create a Plan of Management to tackle noise and anti-social behaviour, ensuring their venues are designed to minimise noise pollution.
Mayor Paula Masselos. Image: Facebook
SUNSET BOULEVARD’S TRIUMPHANT SYDNEY RETURN
The tall palm trees of 1950s Los Angeles cast long shadows in Sunset Boulevard, the exceptional Andrew Lloyd Webber musical returning to the Sydney Opera House after 30 years.
BY JOSH KERWICK
Based on Billy Wilder’s landmark film of the same name, Sunset Boulevard follows struggling screenwriter Joe Gillis (Tim Draxl) as he grows increasingly entangled in the life of fading silent-film star Norma Desmond (Sarah Brightman), who’s been chewed up and spat out by the ruthless Hollywood machine.
For Sydney native and Wilder superfan Tim Draxl, the role of Boulevard’s opportunistic and increasingly desperate Joe Gillis has been a lifelong dream to play: “I’ve always loved old movies, that’s how my career really started,” he tells City Hub. “It was the allure of Hollywood and the aesthetic of the 50s that always stood out to me.
“When I heard about this production of Boulevard, I called my agent and said ‘I want to go in for Joe Gillis,’ even though I’d previously told them I didn’t want to do musicals anymore,” he explains. “I started doing research and realised the show is such a beautiful homage to Billy Wilder and his commentary about the Hollywood machine, with an equally beautiful score.”
Though Joe is a difficult role – the character is onstage for a majority of the show – it’s one that Tim felt he
could bring something new to by way of his own experiences. “I thought about how Joe’s a desperate writer in LA on his last dollar. And I know what that’s like; I lived in LA for seven years and that desperation isn’t attractive or appealing, it’s really ugly. And that was something I felt I could bring to Joe.”
And he’s right; from the moment the curtains first rise, Tim fits into the role of Joe like the well-tapered tuxedo he dons in Act 1. Suave and snarky in equal measure, the show simply wouldn’t function to the same degree without his powerhouse performance. Keep an ear out for his jaw-dropping rendition of the title song Sunset Boulevard, where Tim’s incredible singing voice and irresistible stage presence are all that’s needed to create a spellbinding moment of musical theatre.
...It’s a beautiful homage to Billy Wilder and his commentary about Hollywood
Starring alongside Tim is classicallytrained English singer and actress Sarah Brightman as Norma Desmond. It’s hard to believe this is her first musical theatre gig in 30 years given the high calibre of her performance, and Tim doesn’t think there’s anyone else better for the role.
“To have someone like Sarah, one of the most illustrious soprano singers in the world, play this role is incredible. She knows more than any of us ever could about this industry, and there’s a real fragility, sensitivity and danger she brings to the character. It’s just awesome.”
Joining the pair in this incredible production is Ashleigh Rubenach, playing aspiring writer Betty Schaefer who begins a working relationship with Joe that soon turns into something more. Ashleigh’s turn as Betty is extremely charming, portraying her as a starry-eyed storyteller compared to Tim’s more experienced and jaded Joe.
Ashleigh, another Sydney native for whom Boulevard was a dream role, holds equal reverence for the classic era of Hollywood that the play portrays, warts and all. She says: “It’s an insight and warning about the way the
Hollywood system can impact a person, their perception of who they are and what their value is. And I think that’s still prevalent; we’ve all all heard and seen stories like that, so to see it come to life in this show is really exciting.”
“Andrew Lloyd Webber is a genius at crafting mood and emotion in his writing, and in my opinion Boulevard is the best example of that,” she continues. “He has such an innate understanding of the material, and it makes for a pretty incredible night out.”
Incredible does indeed describe this production of Sunset Boulevard. On the opening night of the show at the Opera House, every single musical number received uproarious applause, and the audience delivered a thunderous standing ovation at the show’s end. Tim and Ashleigh both express how proud they are to be part of this revival of Boulevard, and given this genuinely breathtaking production that honours a stage and screen classic, they have every right to be.
Until November 1
Sydney Opera House, Joan Sutherland Theatre
Tim Draxl as Joe Gillis. Photo: Daniel Boud
Ashleigh Rubenach as Betty Schaefer and Tim Draxl as Joe GIllis. Photo: Daniel Boud
Sarah Brightman as Norma Desmond, Tim Draxl as Joe Gillis. Photo: Daniel Boud
COFFIN ED’S NAKED CITY
WHO’S A HAS-BEEN NOW?
It was Alan McGhee, the former head of Creation Records who signed Oasis to the label in 1993, that supposedly once described Coldplay as ‘bedwetters’. The insult was later adapted by others to describe Coldplay as ‘music to wet your bed by’, admittedly a great album name. McGhee has since distanced himself from the remark but perhaps a modern payback, given their reunion, would be to label Oasis as ‘music to empty your colostomy bag to’.
That kind of comment would be enough to get you killed in a Manchester pub but Oasis have always been the type of band that split public opinion. Judging by the scramble for tickets to their 2025 stadium tour, it’s the music and youthful rebellious memories that count, not the ongoing saga of their well-publicised private lives.
With around 1.5 million tickets sold for the Oasis reunion and venues like Wembley bursting with up to 100,000 fans, the whole phenomenon of stadium rock comes under scrutiny yet again. A number of studies have been done on the dynamics of large gatherings, where interactions in the crowd often overshadow the show. The majority of the audience are so distanced from the
PROPOSAL TO UPGRADE MOBILE PHONE BASE STATION AT FOREST LODGE INCLUDING 5G
Optus and Vodafone plan to upgrade the telecommunications facilities at the below mentioned address with the addition of new 5G equipment: 71 Arundel Street, Forest Lodge NSW 2037 (RFNSA: 2037005)
The proposed 5G upgrade will consist of:
• Replacement of three (3) existing Optus 4G panel antennas with three (3) new Optus 4G panel antennas (each no longer than 2.8m);
• Installation of three (3) new Vodafone 4G panel antennas (each no longer than 2.8m);
• Installation of three (3) new Optus 5G panel antennas (each no longer than 1.0m);
• Installation of three (3) new Vodafone 5G panel antennas (each no longer than 1.0m);
• The installation of eighteen (18) new remote radio units (RRUs) for Optus;
• The installation of nine (9) new RRUs for Vodafone;
• The removal, relocation and installation of ancillary equipment including but not limited to; the above mentioned RRUs, GPS antenna, antenna mounts, feeders, cable trays, electrical works, and associated infrastructure for the safe operation of the facility; and
• Works within the existing equipment shelter.
City of Sydney pursuant to Clause 5.10(3) of the Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012 has permitted works to be undertaken within a conservation area without development consent given the minor nature of the proposed works (Reference: HWC/2024/179). As such, the proposal is classified as Exempt Development under State Environmental Planning Policy (Transport and Infrastructure) 2021 The proposed infrastructure will comply with ACMA EME regulatory arrangements.
In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2020 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code 2020, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Vanessa Wan at Service Stream Limited, 0447 240 015, Optus.Submissions@servicestream.com.au or Zenith Tower B, Level 3,821 Pacific Hwy, Chatswood NSW 2067 by 5pm, Friday 27 September 2024
If you would like to know more about this site, further information can be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2037005
performers that the only real intimacy comes from other fans.
Taylor Swift’s concerts are quasireligious affairs with devotees worshipping their idol and embracing fellow devotees. Full of booze, drugs and unbridled nostalgia, you would expect a similar reaction from Oasis fans, albeit not with the same degree of wholesome fun.
Whether anybody would dare call the temporarily reunified Oasis ‘has-beens’ in 2024 is anybody’s guess but the Gallaghers aren’t getting any younger. As middle-aged men, it’s time to suck in that expanding gut, get a regular prostate check and a test for early onset dementia. Few rock stars have been able to recapture the glory days, and Oasis is probably no different.
Whether we get to see Oasis in Australia next year is difficult to say. The band will reel in so much loot on the UK tour there’s probably little incentive for them to undertake the trip, but a sense of ego could still drive them Down Under.
If the band do decide to tour, I’d like to see a more boutique show – maybe a couple of nights at Leichhardt Oval with an Albo meet-and-greet included. It could even be an alcohol free event with a guarantee of no bed wetting when you finally turn in for the night.
Photo: iOasis on Facebook
HubARTS
IDOLS REBORN
27 Club lovingly interprets
iconic artists
(See p.21)
REVIEW
MURDER ON THE NILE
BY RITA BRATOVICH
The Genesian Theatre Company’s current production of Murder On The Nile signifies a closing chapter for the little theatre group — it’s the last time it will present an Agatha Christie play at the Kent Street location before moving to their new home in Rozelle. If sentimentality isn’t reason enough to buy a ticket, here’s another: it’s a bloody good production.
The set is simple yet effective; flickering lights give the effect of water behind the large windows of a boat; a palm tree and rock facade suggest the Egyptian location; casually arranged tables and chairs give the feel of leisure and understated luxury.
Smack bang in the middle of the stage is a towering statue of Anubis, the Egyptian god of funerary practices and care of the dead; a cheekily appropriate icon.
The murder in this play doesn’t occur until Act 2; unusually late for a Christie thriller. Instead, we spend a lot more time getting to know the characters and their backstories and the various relationships, which makes the speculation around the eventual crime more interesting.
Characters are introduced as they board a boat for a cruise down the Nile. Simon (Hunter Smith) and Kay Mostyn (Emma Burns) are newlyweds hoping for a peaceful honeymoon. However, they’re stalked by Simon’s jealous ex-girlfriend, Jaqueline (Izzy Azzopardi), who was also Kay’s best friend until Simon became besotted with her. Alas, Jaqueline boards just before the boat sets sail and havoc ensues.
Canon Pennefather (David Stewart-Hunter) is an elderly clergyman who also happens to be Kay’s uncle. He takes on the role of confidant, adjudicator, and investigator.
William Smith (Ollie Harcourt) is a cynical, outspoken socialist who resents the wealthy class. Dr Bessner (Gregory George) is a physician who can’t seem to help but act suspiciously.
Genesian veteran Sandra Bass is delightful as Miss Ffoliot-ffoulkes, a horrendously racist snob. Her niece, Christina (Isla Harris), has been brought along as the grumpy woman’s companion, but Christina manages to be mostly elsewhere.
Ash Sahka plays dual roles of Captain McNaught and steward, both minor roles though they give him a chance to show off his ability to do accents.
This
here while you can! Until September 21
NATALIE GAMSU STARS IN SHRAPNEL
BY MARK MORELLINI
Natalie Gamsu is an extraordinary cabaret artist who has performed extensively throughout the world. Born in Namibia and residing in Sydney, she’s bringing her latest one woman show Shrapnel to the Hayes Theatre.
She is excited for Sydneysiders to see the show, which she describes as “an autobiographical monologue with humour, family dysfunction and song.”
The show debuted in Melbourne at The Brunswick Ballroom in 2023 and then at the venue 45 Downstairs last June.
Her extraordinary career began in the underground nightclubs of 80s South Africa in the dark apartheid years.
“Satire was the only way that you could have a voice of what was going on in those times. As I explain in my show, the secret police didn’t understand satire so you could still have fun,” she explained.
“I could be anyone or anything; gay, straight, white or black. Life outside the clubs could be tricky during states of emergency – these clubs were a place of freedom.”
She could never make sense of what was going on in South Africa but her uncanny life experiences have shaped her into the person she is today.
“That’s pretty much what this show is about. Our lives blow up, and like shrapnel bits of it settle into us. Sometimes we remove them and sometimes we grow around them – they become part of who we are.”
When asked what audiences could expect from her show, Gamsu
responded: “They can expect to laugh, to cry and to relate to family, to dysfunction, to madness, to life. If we don’t laugh it’s harder to bear – comedy creates community. People also reflect upon their own lives and family while watching this show and they may be moved because of their own experiences.”
When asked what her thought process was in bringing Shrapnel to the stage, Gamsu paused momentarily. “I’ve always been a storyteller through cabaret and musical theatre, I love sharing stories. I thought my story was worth telling. There’s so much shame around family and we’re not supposed to say things that happened. It’s done with great love, and I love my family –it’s a love story really.”
Gamsu recommends the show to everyone: “It should appeal to a very wide circle of people, and everyone has a story they tell me afterwards –without sounding arrogant, nobody has ever come up to me and said they couldn’t relate to it. Come and laugh and have a wonderful evening!”
From October 3 - 6
Making his debut as a director is Theo Hatzistergos, who does a splendid job; we’ll no doubt be seeing more of his work in future.
little old church theatre is the ideal venue for an electric Christie play. See it
Photo: Genesian Theatre
BY MARK MORELLINI
After several years' absence, producer and ‘Queen of Panto’ Bonnie Lythgoe, brings her favourite pantomime Snow White back to the stage with a hilarious new production that celebrates the 10-year anniversary of presenting pantos to Australian audiences.
NEW STAGING OF SNOW WHITE PANTOMIME TITANIQUE SETS COURSE FOR SYDNEY
theatre with pantomime, Krizak explained: “Musical theatre is held together by a script and storytelling by songs, whereas pantomimes involve the audience. The kids need to know what the story is, but there are many adult and modern day references thrown in too.”
The wonderful cast is fronted by Debora Krizak as the Wicked Queen (pictured left), Eliza Sunderland (pictured right) as the very genuine and beautiful Snow White and Tim Maddren as Prince Sebastian. Projected images of Sir Cliff Richard and Kyle Sandilands playing the roles of ‘Mirror Enchanted’ and ‘Mirror Disgruntled’ respectively have also been recorded for the show.
Musical theatre actress Debora Krizak, who has starred in countless productions including Mamma Mia!, Jerry’s Girls and We Will Rock You sat down with City Hub to chat about the new panto Snow White.
Krizak has watched all of Bonnie Lythgoe’s pantomimes and explained she’s elated to perform in her very first panto. “This panto is hilarious,” she said. “It’s laugh out loud funny and the epitome of what pantomime should be with great performers at the top of their game.”
Comparing the experience of traditional
When asked whether playing the role of the Wicked Queen would be a challenge Krizak laughingly responded “Oh! It’s a challenge for me to be so nasty to be a villain… I’m so sweet! But the whole thing is bloody fun with a capital F – everybody on stage is so watchable and so fricken funny and everybody loves to boo and hiss the villain!”
There’s an enjoyable mix of music in Snow White, from classics like Time After Time, original songs from UK songwriter Olly Ashmore and popular tracks from Dua Lipa, Lizzo and Jade Moss. The sets and costumes are spectacular, and the show has an incredible ensemble of young dancers. Krizak explained Snow White is a show for adults and children: “Not only will adults love the music, but there are so many adult references that they will find hilarious. The story is easy to follow for the kids and they’ll love Snow White and the Prince, but it’s an equally good night out with a couple of wines under the belt for the folks!”
Until September 21
BY JOHN MOYLE
Don’t miss Titanique, one of the most irreverent shows of the year, when it makes a splash at the Grand Electric this September.
Based on the multi-award winning film, the production reimagines the story of Jack, Rose, Cal and Molly Brown through the voice of Celine Dion.
Starring many of our best musical theatre performers, Titanique will feature a number of Dion’s beloved songs such as the ever-famous My Heart Will Go On.
“The show is 90 minutes of hilarity where you can leave your worries at the door,” says Drew Weston, who plays Jack Dawson. “I have seen all the scenes plenty of times and I am still laughing my head off!”
The show, which originated in 2017 from the pen of RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni Tye Blue, Maria Mindelle and Constantine Rousoli, is now entering its third year of shows.
Now it’s headed Down Under and, in a rare move for Sydney theatre, cooriginator and original director Tye Blue is at the helm.
“It’s such a blessing having the original director,” Weston said. “With Tye as a co-writer and director, he can give us the backstory about how this show came to be.”
Blue is also making sure that the Sydney show is unique to a local audience. “There are a lot of pop culture references throughout the show and some of these have been changed to suit an Australian audience,” Weston said.
Celine is played by Marney McQueen, who played Marion the barmaid in the original Priscilla, Queen of the Desert: The Musical.
“Marney is an absolute powerhouse and a comic genius, which you really need for the role,” Weston said.
“The role of Celine is a love letter. There are no boundaries and any kind of choice suits the role, but it’s always from a place of love.
“You feel like you’re at one of Celine’s Las Vegas shows, watching her put herself into the narrative.”
The role of Rose DeWitt Bukater is one that Georgina Hopson, last seen in Kate Miller Heidke’s Bananaland, has made her own.
“Georgina and I have known each other for years and this is the first time that we’ve worked together,” Weston said. “It’s going to be quite dangerous! It's a riotous single set show; you’ll have to come to find out how the Titanic sinks through the magic of theatre.”
From September 12 - November 3
Photo: James Morgan
LEE UFAN: QUIET RESONANCE
BY CASSANDRA PACE
Lee Ufan is one of the world’s most highly recognised artists; at 88 years old, his highly successful career spans more than 60 years. Born in Korea in 1936, the celebrated artist resides between Japan and france. He studied painting in Seoul before relocating to Tokyo in 1956 to study philosophy. Not long after, he became a key figure and founder in Japan’s Mono-ha (School of Things) movement, which explored the relationship between objects and their viewers.
A multidisciplinary creative, Lee is renowned for his work in art, writing, philosophy and poetry. His deceptively minimal paintings and sculptures utilise simple materials such as stone, steel
SARAH CONTOS: EYE LASH HORIZON
BY JAMES BALE
Acclaimed artist Sarah Contos is set to lead her first institutional survey at UNSW Galleries with Eye Lash Horizon, an exhibition that pays tribute to the varying media and materials that have been pivotal in her craft over the past two decades.
The exhibition is presented as a Kaleidoscopic view of the human condition through the four worlds of ‘brain’, ‘womb’, ‘belly’ and ‘soul’, each exploring human proximity and paying homage to popular culture.
Contos believes this exhibition has been one of the toughest things she has had to do as an artist, saying: “The scale, methodologies employed, and diverse materials speak directly to my love of artmaking.
“From casting aluminium forms in the backyard to tufting wool on giant frames in my studio garage, the deliberate mark of my hands is present
and canvas, his work gives insight to the contemplation and consideration of the physical and intellectual self.
For his first solo exhibition in Australia, The Art Gallery of New South Wales brings the Lee Ufan: Quiet Resonance exhibition to Sydney. This feature distils more than six decades of previous experimentations into a collection of new paintings and sculptures created and curated exclusively for the Art Gallery. He said of the exhibition: “The artworks I create are all tapestries of intimate breathing between me and the world.”
in each sculpture, textile, and object,” she explains.
Contos uses multiple artistic mediums throughout Eye Lash Horizon, incorporating video animations, printed collages, repurposed furniture, textile forms and hand-forged sculptures.
One of the works in the ‘Brain’ instalment is a collection of mannequin heads made of aluminium and polystyrene, which again draws on pop-culture by taking inspiration from 1927’s film Metropolis.
In the ‘Belly’ instalment, a series of large, illuminated cocoon sculptures hang on the roof of the gallery, alluding to the memories of the past while shedding for a prosperous future.
Curator Karen Hall says: “Science fiction films are an ongoing influence for Sarah, and she is inspired by the aesthetics of imagined worlds to express fear of the unknown and unseen.”
27 September – 24 November
Focusing on the relationship between the object and the viewer, the artist incorporates ideas of classical and modern European and Asian philosophy through his art, to showcase his unique artistic interpretation of concepts such as of emptiness also known as ‘ma’. This explores the harmony and tension between objects, the world and the viewer.
Art Gallery of New South Wales director Michael Brand said: “This free exhibition is an opportunity for every visitor to experience the beauty and power of these works, created by one of the world’s most significant and influential artists.”
With careful consideration, the artist worked alongside the Art Gallery’s Senior Curator of Asian Art Melanie Eastburn to format and design the exhibition space to enhance the viewer’s experience with each work.
Melanie expresses her interest in Lee’s work being brought to Australia, touching on his profound influence in the art world. She says: “Lee Ufan is one of the world’s most important artists. He has had a huge influence on so many artists, and he has never had a major solo show in Australia”.
When asked what attendees can expect from the exhibition, Lee says: “When you’re looking at the sculpture or the painting, I hope you feel an energy you don’t feel every day!”
Until September 2025
SXSW FREE PROGRAM
BY RITA BRATOVICH
SXSW Sydney 2024 is looking to be even bigger and better than last year, with a week-long program of free events that’ll run alongside the main conference in Tumbalong Park, Darling Harbour.
SXSW is one of the world’s largest culture festivals, and SXSW Sydney 2023 was the very first to take place outside the USA and had extremely positive feedback.
This year’s program has been built around the festival’s core pillars: Tech & Innovation, Games, Music and Screen. The Main Stage and The Dome will be the focal points for performances, demonstrations and talks.
+91 Calling brings the spicy sounds of India to Tumbalong Park for one whole day with six exciting acts, while Ben Gillies (Silverchair) will team up with Johannes Saam and Tushar Apte for a
music/technology jam.
Nostalgia lovers should catch a special 60th anniversary screening of cult classic surf film The Endless Summer with live music afterwards. For something more homegrown, see a free screening of Bush Shorts, a selection of First Nations and Indigenous short films.
Meanwhile, in The Dome, be part of the audience for the Meet The Speaker sessions featuring many of the conference speakers including popular Australian astrophysicist Kirsten Banks. As part of the free Games Festival programming, two of the best high schools in Australia and New Zealand will compete in the only Fortnite competition designed for high schools. Team PWR and Fortnite icons Lachlan and Loserfruit will be onstage to provide the winners with their trophy.
From October 14 —20
Photo: Felicity Jenkins via AGNSW
Photo: Anna Kucera
Photo:
Katje Ford
27 CLUB
BY RITA BRATOVICH
Although it’s been debunked as conspiracy hype, the legend of the “27 Club” endures. Whether it’s coincidence or curse doesn’t matter, for most people, it just means that fans of rock music can celebrate a handful of the greatest performers ever as a posthumous supergroup. And that’s what 27 Club, the show, does. 27 Club is made up of an absolute powerhouse of Australian musicians in a rotating line-up: Sarah McLeod, Kevin Mitchell, Carla Lippis, Dusty Lee Stephenson, Justin Burford, Virginia Lillye, and Bek Jensen, plus a back-up band.
The opening night show featured McLeod, Lippis, Stephenson and Burford, and if it’s in any way representative of a typical 27 Club show, then you can expect fireworks any night you attend.
Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Robert Johnson, Amy Winehouse, Kurt Cobain are all celebrated in thrilling re-imaginations of their greatest hits, while honouring the core of what made them all unique. For a tribute band with an alternating line-up, the band is extremely tight and clearly have great rapport, not only with each other but with the audience too. There’s a lot of infectious energy on stage. They don’t imitate but respectfully reference each of the legends in their performances. In between each song, the various band members give a brief anecdote about one of the legends being honoured. They perform solo, in pairs and as a whole band and the whole show is rippling with electricity which transfers to the audience.
Do not miss this show. Be warned, though; it is very loud!
Until September 29
WILD GOD –NICK CAVE AND THE BAD SEEDS
ZION GARCIA ON CREATING ART
BY FRED RAHI
Read our conversation with Western Sydney hip-hop trailblazer Zion Garcia and questions about his relationship with music, his connection with the community, and excitement about his growing opportunities. This interview has been condensed for print.
Q: Between a performance at the Opera House and headlining the Archie Party, what’s it been like getting to perform your music for bigger audiences?
ZG: It’s such a trip because music and art for me is such an internal experience. A lot of it is what I think about and feel; it’s a way to process things. It’s a blessing when people enjoy and listen to my music because they understand me and I get the chance to connect with people.
Q: Could you speak about your interests in film scores, filmmaking, and other mediums?
ZG: There’s a bunch of ideas in my head and I just want to create in any format that makes sense to me. If you can find fresh ways to use the mediums, cool ways to show films or create a moment around something, you can curate an experience.
Q: What would you say to other young artists trying to make art in Sydney?
ZG: If you want to create, you just gotta do it. A lot of us definitely don’t have the resources to make what we want, but you try to find a way. If you have a passion or a good idea, and you’re able to define your intent and convey it to people, then you can’t let anyone or anything stop you.
BY JAMES BALE
Nick Cave wants people to know that he's on the healing path with Wild God, the latest album from Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. It's also the first release from the band since the tragic death of Cave's son, Jethro, in 2022. Despite that fact, Cave has a greater appreciation for the world around him than ever before.
This is a major shift in musical and lyrical themes for Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, who were once the symbols for the antipathetic nature of post-punk throughout the 80s.
Each track is classic Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds at their core, incorporating slow piano ballads, backing acoustic guitar and many experimental elements such as the automated voice in the background on O Wow O Wow, a moving tribute to late Bad Seed Anita Lane.
Every track on this album plays out as if they are the thoughts rolling through Cave’s head, each describing a different concept.
The opening track Song of the Lake uses repetition and juxtaposition in its lyrics as Cave ponders the
contradictions of life, while the title track Wild God is a perfect representation of the hopeful perspective of the album.
Radiohead’s Colin Greenwood plays bass on the album and adds to the rough, melodic piano and orchestral backing with thick, groovy bass tones.
Emotional and euphoric, this album is a fine addition to the discography of Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, with each note played and lyric sung allowing the inner workings of Nick Cave to unfold before us.
1/2
Photo: Tim Levy
Photo: Justin Cueno
Photo: Facebook
ALIEN: ROMULUS
BY JOSH KERWICK
I
t brings me no joy to say that I was disappointed by Alien: Romulus; Though there are moments where Romulus carves out its own corner of the series, it’s ultimately far too nostalgic for its own good.
Despite director Fede Álvarez’s skill at directing horror, the film falters in a number of key ways.
The script is far-and-away the biggest disappointment here, which fails to create a particularly gripping cast of characters or story, though Cailee Spaeny and David Jonsson give excellent performances.
Compared to Alien and Aliens, the characters in Romulus feel rather threadbare.
Furthermore, the connections that the film makes to the wider Alien franchise are dubious at best with fan service that often makes the eyes roll.
While Romulus may often delight as a horror film, it really struggles to form its own meaningful sense of identity, leaving little to latch onto outside of its key moments of horror.
1/2 In Cinemas now
THE SUBSTANCE
BY JOSH KERWICK
Have you ever dreamt of becoming a younger version of yourself? Then try The Substance, Coralie Fargeat’s hilariously sickening satirical takedown of the entertainment industry. Hollywood superstar Elisabeth Sparkle (Demi Moore) just got fired from her daytime aerobics gig for being “too old.” Feeling desperate, Elisabeth soon discovers the Substance, a drug that literally creates a younger version of herself (Margaret Qualley).
The Substance is largely a film about how women in the entertainment industry are subject to much
BY MARK MORELLINI
Winx is an iconic retired champion Australian thoroughbred racehorse, which won a staggering 33 races between 2013 – 2019. A Horse Named Winx delves into the amazing career of this incredible racehorse, with all of its victories shown in the film.
From early beginnings to the exhaustive boot camp and training sessions, the documentary follows the horse’s initial wins and then being labelled ‘a forgotten horse’ owing to successive failures on the racecourse.
A HORSE NAMED WINX
higher levels of scrutiny for their age than their male counterparts. This point isn’t made subtly, but it’s still effective.
Moore and Qualley both give daring performances, while Fargeat does incredible work behind the camera as she invents a whole new definition of ‘substance abuse’.
The film overstays its welcome a bit, but The Substance ends as an insane body-horror flick worth seeing for its bluntly funny social satire – if you can handle gore.
In theatres September 19
The story plays out like a fairytale with many high and low moments in this phenomenal racehorse’s life, which reportedly posed for the cameras and had the personality of a diva.
A Horse Named Winx is perfect viewing for the entire family and for optimum enjoyment it’s not a prerequisite to be a fan of horse racing. There will be laughter and tears watching the amazing story of Winx, a racehorse with the will to win and live.
In Cinemas now
THELMA
BY MARK MORELLINI
If laughter is the best medicine, readers of this publication who have any minor ailments should go watch Thelma!
The story follows 93-year-old Thelma Post, who is scammed out of $10,000. When told by the police that her chances of recovering the money are miniscule, she and a friend search for the culprits on a senior-friendly scooter. Veteran actress June Squibb is priceless in the role of Thelma; described as a ‘tough cookie’, the energetic 93-year-old will stop at nothing to retrieve what is hers. Her
partner in crime is Ben (the late great Richard Roundtree) and Thelma’s loving grandson Danny is played by a charismatic Fred Hechinger. Poignant interludes are well placed in between the hilarity, as themes relatable to the elderly resonate about vulnerability and the inevitability of death.
Thelma is an absolute gem and suitable for all. This low-budget feature shows that filmmakers don’t need mammoth budgets to produce enjoyable movies.
In cinemas now
Photo: 20th Century Studios
Photo: Transmission
Photo: Madman
Photo: Maslow Entertainment
