Indigenous Day of Mourning recognised
Welcome funding boost for Callan Park
Sydney’s top vinyl & memorabilia store
Page 17
Page 14
Page 22
YOUR FREE INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER
F E B R UA RY, 2 0 21
WHERE WILL THE CHILDREN PLAY? BY ALLISON HORE he plans for a skatepark at Leichhardt Park have hit another roadblock after council voted to put the parks plans under an extra layer of scrutiny. The move will mean the decade-long decision making process for a new Inner West skatepark will be drawn out even longer. The vote follows lengthy debate as to whether the proposed skate park’s location was suitable after councillors John Stamolis, Vittoria Raciti, Rochelle Porteous and Marghanita Da Cruz tabled a motion to look for a “more suitable” location for the skate park. Councillor Stamolis told the council in December he was not against a skate park being built in the area, but thought the chosen location by the foreshore in Leichhardt Park was unsuitable. “Many of us are still wondering how and why this location was chosen for a skate park in the first place,” he said. He said in the process of selecting the location for the park there was “very little consultation” and when the plan was revealed there was “huge public opposition.” He also said the skate park would cut into what little green space there is available. “Our green space is like gold, we have so little of it in our municipality,” Mr. Stamolis told the council. Also referenced in the motion were concerns from La Montage, a harbourside function center. Their worries included practicalities including proximity to the function center’s kitchen and delivery areas as well as concerns about the kind of crowd the skate park would attract. They said security around the park would be hard to manage and worried “any problem events or behaviour will dramatically impact on the business.”
T
Leichhardt skatepark controversy leaves kids lacking
“Placing a skate park next to a function and event centre is unheard of.”
“NOT IN MY BACKYARD”
But with skateboarding becoming increasingly mainstream, to the point it has even been accepted as an Olympic sport, is it valid to worry about anti-social skaters? Skate Now is a mobile skate school “safe and fun skateboarding lessons” for both groups and individuals of all ages. Over the past six years the school has run a large number of programs at school aftercare and vacation care centres within the Inner West local government area.
I believe there’s a nimbyism at play They told the Inner West Independent the move to block the skatepark in Leichhardt was “disappointing” and said it sounds similar to the situation with a skatepark which was planned in Rushcutters Bay. “In both instances, I believe there’s a nimbyism at play that’s based on an outdated and inaccurate perception of who skateboarders are and what kind of culture a skateboarding facility would bring to an area,” they said. “There is a small minority of people who still believe the 90’s era stereotypes of skateboarding and the association with things like rowdy behaviour or being a ‘slacker’.” Skate Now says the demographics of skaters are changing, with kids learning to skate from a much younger age and skate parks now becoming a hot spot for families. “We are also seeing a lot of mums and dads riding with their kids, and these days there is a lot more participation in the sport by female riders of all ages,” they said. Continued on page 4
HISTORIC COMMUNITY WIN
$14 million to restore Callan Park 2001 Photo: David Liddle
2018
2020
2
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
Later this year work will begin on $14 million worth of major improvements that will transform Callan Park. You’ll see upgrades across the site including a fully pedestrianised foreshore Bay Run, new picnic areas and a waterfront sporting and community facility, the protection of Indigenous cultural heritage, and repairs to heritage buildings including the Garry Owen Summer House. On a personal note, after 20 years fighting Labor and Liberal government proposals to sell off and develop Callan Park this is a historic achievement. Thank you to everyone who has rallied behind this campaign, especially the Friends of Callan Park.
Authorised by Jamie Parker MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements. Jan 2021.
Is your home not working? An Addbuild Addition makes it easy to give your family more space to live, work and play at home. Whether you’re a growing family or working more from home this year – maybe your current layout isn’t coping. Addbuild has helped Sydney families improve their existing homes for over 40 years. With the experience of over 1,800 projects, there isn’t a space issue we haven’t solved. As a concept-to-completion Master Builder, Addbuild can design your renovation, guide it through the Development Application process, and build it to the highest standards. We create, at no cost to you, an obligation-free Design Proposal for you to consider along with a preliminary estimate.
When – and only when – you are comfortable with the proposal, we can generate a Plans Order so we can prepare all the plans, specifications and contract documents ready for council approval. The next step is to sign the Department of Fair Trading Building Contract with a fixed building price. We then submit, monitor and manage the council approval process for you. Upon approval we assign a building supervisor to your project and begin the build. Improve the house you live in to create the home you need – call us on 8765 1555 to arrange for a design consultant to visit you at home to discuss your situation.
Based in Sydney’s Inner West we specialise in designing & building quality additions, renovations & extensions – with more than 1,800 homes completed to date.
ADDBUILD MASTER BUILDERS PTY LTD Lic. No. 114851C
Find out more and download our guide to worry-free home improvement at addbuild.com.au ADB00121_IWI
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
3
IndieNEWS WHERE WILL THE CHILDREN PLAY?
(Continued from the cover)
IndieARTS:
TEENAGE KICKS Teenage Kicks is about a young guy on the verge of adulthood... developing his sexuality (See p. 23)
Published monthly and freely available throughout the Inner West. Copies are also distributed to serviced apartments, hotels, convenience stores and newsagents throughout the Inner West local council area. Distribution enquiries call 9212 5677. Published by Altmedia Pty Ltd. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy of content, we take no responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions. ABN 52 600 903 348 Group Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons Publisher Assistant: Mal Moody Group News Editor: Allison Hore Inner West News Editor: Rida Babar Arts Editor: Jamie Apps Contributors: Allison Hore, John Moyle, Daniel Lo Surdo, Briannah Devlin, Eva Baxter, Georgia Robinson, Mark Morellini, Soofia Tariq, Jamie Apps, Irina Dunn, Erika Echternach Advertising Managers: Mal Moody 0484 042 615 Advertising: sales@altmedia.net.au Cover Photo: Eric Chen. One of Skate Now’s students shows off his skills in Dulwich Hill Designer: Nadia Kalinitcheva Mail: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 Email: news@altmedia.net.au, arts@altmedia.net.au Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633
If you have a story, or any comments you’d like to share with us: news@altmedia.net.au 4
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
Kids learn from the pros at a community skatepark in the Inner West. Photo: Eric Chen
A BETRAYAL OF CHILDREN
Inner West Mayor Darcy Byne called the motion to find a new location for the skatepark a “betrayal of local children and young people.” He maintains the concerns of the business should not be put before the needs of the community. “We must uphold the principle that no private business has a right of veto over children’s infrastructure in public parks,” he said. It was in 2018 when the Inner West council decided to investigate the suitability of the skate park being built in the area adjacent to Leichhardt oval on the Bay run. A unanimous vote in support of the investigation led to the creation of a new draft Leichhardt Park Plan of Management in 2018. The council initially voted to pass the plan, but when the motion questioning the suitability of the location for the skatepark was tabled council clashed over how to proceed. In a December 2020 meeting, the council came to a compromise by voting to rescind the passing of the Leichhardt Park Plan of Management. They also voted to reassess the plans for the skate park with the same level of scrutiny applied to a Development Application. This means before the construction can begin the plan will be subject to environmental assessment and a public consultation period. The council, with the exception of councillors Passass and Stamolis, voted
against the motion to find a new location for the skate park. Although the skate park location has been maintained, the move to add further scrutiny into the design of the park will further delay its construction.
BUILDING LIFE SKILLS In contrast to community concerns about the kind of crowd a skatepark can draw in and the practicality of the land use, Skate Now said a local skatepark can bring a lot of benefits to the community. During the school holidays Skate Now ran a series of Learn to Skate programmes in conjunction with City of Sydney at the new $6 million skating facility in Sydney park which opened over Christmas. “We spoke to many parents who were bringing their children to the park regularly throughout the holidays, and they found it was a convenient, inexpensive outing where they could relax, bring their dog and chat to other parents whilst the kids rode the skatepark,” Danny said. “It really is a benefit to the whole community to have these vibrant, activated spaces that everyone can enjoy.” Skate Now said along with the physical benefits that skateboarding can bring including increased coordination, muscle control, balance and concentration, the sport can be good for children’s mental health and builds character.
“Skateboarding can also help kids develop socially, as it’s a great way for them to connect with other children. We often see kids of different ages, genders and backgrounds easily connect with the common interest in skateboarding,” they said. And the research seems to agree. A 2020 study by researchers from the University of Western Australia found that prosocial behaviours, such as socialising with friends, respecting others and cooperation, were far more likely to be reported by skateboarders than anti-social behaviours. And associate professor Lisa Wood said this is more than just “social niceties”.
It really is a benefit to the whole community “Developmentally, important life skills are informally fostered when a bunch of young people learn to take turns, share a confined space, face new challenges publicly, and pick themselves (or others up) after a fall,” she wrote in an article for The Conversation. As for a new skate park in the Inner West, the plan is back to the drawing board for another round of community consultation and environmental assessments. While an end was in sight for the decade-long dilema, it’ll now carry on for who-knowshow-many more years. For now the question remains; where will the children play?
ALL KILLER - NO FILLER
VINTAGE + NEW REISSUE VINYL RECORDS. COMPACT DISCS, CASSETTES, POSTERS + MORE 1000’S OF VINYL RECORDS. HEAPS OF $5 RECORDS ON SALE.
5 FOR $20
OPEN 7 DAYS 11 A M
TO
7PM
ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
POP UP POSTER SHOP OPENS EARLY FEBRUARY ROUND THE CORNER ON VICTORIA RD ASK FOR DETAILS
Ph: (02) 9569 3465, 113 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville NSW 2204 www.rpmrecords.com.au
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
5
IndieNEWS
Leichhardt damage concerns “Properties close to the proposed controlled blasting work area have already been offered a pre-construction property condition survey,” a WestConnex spokesperson said. “Controlled blasting is designed so as to not cause vibration at a level that would cause property damage.”
Residents who have suffered damage at the time of tunnelling have had their claims knocked back
Approximate location where blasting would occur in Leichhardt. Photo: WestConnex project team
BY DANIEL LO SURDO eichhardt residents are growing increasingly concerned with potential property damage resulting from the WestConnex tunnel blasting that could begin as early as next month. WestConnex contractor Acciona Samsung Bouygues (ASBJV) applied to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment in November seeking permission to break rock under areas between Leichhardt’s 36th Battalion Park and Pioneers Memorial Park. A final decision on the proposal is scheduled for the coming days. The application was met with
L
apprehension from Leichhardt residents who believe blasting will compromise the condition of their property. Leichhardt Against WestConnex CoConvenor Jennifer Aaron understands landowners are most at risk from the excavation process. “Many in the community have concluded that blasting is being considered to save the joint-venture time and money and not to reduce impacts to residents,” Ms. Aaron told the Inner West Independent. The WestConnex project team reassured Leichhardt residents they will be entitled to appropriate provisions should the application be approved.
Controlled blasting is a method used to excavate rock into manageable pieces for removal. The procedure involves predrilling a series of small diameter holes in the rock face before loading and detonating the holes with small charges to properly withdraw the hard rock.
LOCALS DISILLUSIONED
The contractor’s promises have failed to diminish residents’ frustration. They have become disillusioned with assurances from the WestConnex project team. “ASBJV’s assurances that blasting is safe, that it will be conducted within acceptable limits and that it will be
closely monitored does not allay our concerns,” Ms. Aaron said. “Throughout the prior stages of the project residents who have suffered damage at the time of tunnelling have had their claims knocked back.” The joint-venture’s proposal comes after plans to blast under Annandale were abandoned in July last year. Ms. Aaron believes that the project team will not provide landowners with the satisfactory resources to seek compensation for damages ensuing from the underground blasting. “Property owners will have to obtain reports at their own cost in order to prove their claim,” said Ms. Aaron. With a final decision on the proposal looming, the Controlled Blast Management Plan has been devised by the WestConnex project team to safely monitor blasting in the immediate future. Under the scheme, an industry expert will be trusted with overseeing every blast taking place in Leichhardt. Potential blasting in Leichhardt will occur no more than twice on each tunnel between 7:00am and 6:00pm on weekdays and 8:00am to 6:00pm on Saturdays.
Happy New Year After a difficult 2020, no doubt many in our community are feeling a sense of relief to have made it through to 2021. In the Newtown Electorate Office we are back in full swing and are looking forward to another year of working hard for our community. We know that the challenges of last year are still unfolding for so many people and our priority this year is to ensure that everyone is able to access the support and assistance that they need. If you require specialist assistance as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, you may find this information helpful: Health Advice: 1800 020 080
Mental Health Line: 1800 512 348 Disability Services: 1800 643 787
Domestic Violence Line: 1800 656 463 Tenants’ Advice Line: 1800 251 101 @jennyleong.newtown
6
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
If you live in the Newtown Electorate please feel free to contact our office for assistance. If you are concerned about a local issue or are having problems with a NSW Government service or agency, we are here to help.
Please feel free to contact us on: Ph: 02 9517 2800 E: newtown@parliament.nsw.gov.au You can also drop by our office at 383 King St, Newtown between 9am - 5pm, Monday to Friday.
As a result of COVID restrictions our office is adhering to strict capacity limits and can provide masks and hand sanitizer to individuals on arrival. We also offer Justice of the Peace services by appointment on Friday mornings, please call ahead to confirm availability. @jennyleong
It’s a pleasure to represent our wonderfully vibrant and progressive community in the NSW Parliament and we are looking forward to another year of working with you towards a more inclusive society where difference and diversity is celebrated. Together we can continue to challenge inequality, call out injustice and act to address the climate emergency.
And remember - wear a mask, if you have symptoms get tested, and be sure to follow the NSW Health advice to keep yourself and our community safe.
Jenny Leong MP Greens Member for Newtown
@jennyleong.newtown
Pedal Power wins the day
IndieNEWS
Pop-up cycleways gaining momentum in the Inner West. Photo: Supplied
BY JOHN MOYLE he demand for more cycleways and the advent of COVID-19 made for strange bedfellows that have seen new pop-up cycleways created across Sydney. They have come about through responses from government, local council and residents to take pressure off public transport and the demand for safer routes offering access to key employment areas and improved recreational experiences. The Inner West Council is installing two cycleway projects approved for funding by Transport for NSW that will form part of the east-west route between Summer Hill and Newtown, linking the area to the CBD, and a project on Livingstone Road from Randall Street Marrickville to Marrickville Park. “The Livingstone Road link connects with a recently completed link between Marrickville and Dulwich Hill stations known as Local Route 18 in the Marrickville Bicycle Strategy,” Spokesperson, Inner West Council said. Funded by the NSW Government, the projects are expected to cost around $1 million each. “The planned work includes new line markings and signs on existing cycleways for bike rider safety, and on Douglas Street and Railway Avenue, a separate cycleway will be
T
installed, which is 2.4 metres wide,” a spokesperson from the Inner West Council said. “It will have two lanes, one going in each direction and a physical barrier to parked cars for cyclist safety.” By the end of February, weather permitting, the cycleway will link Petersham Station with Newtown Station and give users the opportunity to access the CBD, UTS, University of Sydney and the Broadway shops.
It’s a case of use it or lose it “This particular route has been discussed for 10 to 15 years as part of the Summer Hill to Newtown cycleway,” Bob Moore, Webmaster of the Inner West Bicycle Coalition said.
THE MISSING LINK
Representing over 300 bike riders, the IWBC is an amalgamation of bike user groups from Marrickville, Ashfield and Leichhardt before the merging of the councils into the Inner West Council. While maintaining their local identities the bike user groups now use the overarching body to lobby and write submissions as a block. “The Summer Hill to Newtown route is now a very useful route and we had some consultation about it earlier on,” Bob Moore said.
“It may not be the final route, but a quick one to get something done, and then they will assess it on the basis of how it works.” The Newtown end of the section still has to overcome the logistical problem of how riders are to get across King Street. “Currently the Inner West Council cycleway network is connected to the City of Sydney area at King Street, via Eliza Street in Newtown,” a spokesperson from the City of Sydney said. “There is a missing section of cycleway on Wilson Street, between King Street and Erskineville Road, and this section is a state road and is controlled by Transport for NSW.” “The City supports TfNSW completing this missing link to allow it to fulfil its potential.” “There’s about a 200 metre gap from where it ends at Enmore Road, and they need to sort this out,” Bob Moore said. The City of Sydney is currently recording around 10,000 bike trips per week along Wilson Street. “A NSW Government survey found that 70 percent of people in NSW would ride more often if it was safer, and the number of people on bikes has increased in places where safer routes have been provided,” Spokesperson, Inner West Council said.
SKYROCKETING BIKE TRAFFIC
While IWC could not provide numbers, a spokesperson said that Carrington Road in Marrickville experienced a 50 per cent increase in the first year, Bowden Street Alexandria a 250 per cent increase and George Street Redfern showed a 400 per cent increase in bike traffic since a protected bike path was installed. “The thing that we have been encouraged by these pop-ups is the use of physical separation as painting a line on the road has zero impact on road safety,” Bastien Wallace, the General Manager of Public Affairs at Bicycle NSW said. Being temporary projects, the cycleways have been built using easy to install infrastructure such as painted road markings, temporary kerbs, lane dividers and flexible barriers. All are located on already busy routes and connect to existing cycleways. The routes have also been chosen for being where public transport is likely to be overcrowded. Further cycleways are planned for Randwick, Liverpool, Manly, Parramatta as well as regional and outer Metro areas. “Some people have worried about the cycleways being a temporary measure during Covid, but there is also a process in place where people can provide their feedback,” Bastien Wallace said. It’s a case of use it or lose it. INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
7
IndieNEWS
Council splash cash Inner West Council receive sports honour for community projects BY GEORGIA ROBINSON 9 community projects are starting the year off with a bang after the Inner West Council announced the recipients of the Inner West Council 2020 Grant Program. Through the program the council is providing $500,000 in funding to local arts, community and history, wellbeing and environment projects. The process of applying for the grants program was simple. However, only those which were aligned with the Inner West Council’s five community strategic directions received the grant.
8
Women in a football team in Sydney’s Inner West. Photo: Football NSW
BY EVA BAXTER he Inner West Council was named 2020 Local Council of the Year in the Community Sports Awards by the NSW Office of Sport.
T
The council was given the award for its collaboration with local sports clubs to boost participation in sport across the local government area, particularly among women and girls.
One initiative created by the Inner West Council to drive women’s participation in sports was ‘Girls Get Active’ Day in 2020. The program was run in partnership with Sport NSW and 120+ girls from local schools attended, with a panel of female athletes and opportunities to try a variety of sports.
CHANGING THE CULTURE
Alyssa Graf has been playing soccer in the Inner West area for 15 years. She noticed that the number of girls playing soccer around her began to drop off at age 16, and then again around 20. She said sport isn’t a big part of female it’s ok to want culture. “I know a lot of men who are a part of teams because that’s where they see their friends and that’s what they bond with their friends over,” said Alyssa. “A lot of my friends, I don’t bond with over sport.” Liza said quality bathrooms, change “The CDSFA has created a facilities and more fields are needed competition for women over 30 for more women and girls to get years of age so mums can play, and involved. a Women’s Intermediate League for girls 17-21,” she said. “The clubs and competitions work hard to recruit and support girls “This competition helps girls who and women, Council and other want to stay in the sport during levels of government work hard to the HSC years and the period of provide fields and facilities. For more transitioning through university to women and girls to be involved, we work.” need more fields and more modern According to the RNS, 65 percent facilities,” she said. of 15-year-old girls participate in She said that team sport can propel team sports, yet only 17 percent of girls into the board room by teaching 25-34-year-old women continue to them to stand up to an opposing force do so. Women participate less in with the intention to win. organised sport and physical activity “Girls learn it’s ok to want to win, to than men, particularly between the strive and try hard and celebrate wins.” ages of 25 and 44. In 2018 a Recreation Needs Study (RNS) conducted by the council identified that women and girls have reduced opportunities for participation in sport and active recreation. Liza Schaeper, Girls learn Director on the to win Board of the Canterbury District Soccer Football Association (CDSFA), plays soccer in a women’s team, coaches a girls’ team and is involved in admin at the club level. She said girls and women’s participation has increased over the last ten years.
8
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
It’s always a funding battle, especially when we’re trying to get projects up and running These strategic directions were, ‘an ecologically sustainable Inner West; unique, liveable and networked neighbourhoods; creative communities and a strong economy; caring, happy and healthy communities; and a progressive local leadership.”
COMMUNITY WELLBEING
When asked how the grant will help with their project, Samuel Thompson from the 4 Week Wellbeing Workout said, “it will help a lot, for us, it’s always a funding battle, especially when we’re trying to get projects up and running.” The 4 Week Wellbeing Workout was granted $5000 and is a program “that
small community groups to get funding for projects that can be really beneficial where otherwise they might not be able to get it.”
HISTORY AND HERITAGE
John Winter from the 100 Project, a website which looks at sharing the stories of centenarians through videos which they film at home with their family, agreed. “I really commend the council for making such grants possible, I think it’s fantastic,” he told the Inner West Independent. Through the work of the 100 Project Mr. Winter and his partner Rosaline Walker are able to create a “real [...] sense of the history and stories of Australia through our oldest citizens.” Receiving the $10,000 grant will help the project enormously, said Mr. Winter. “It is a labour of love, we’ve been putting in our own investments to make it up to now, so any assistance and help we get is fantastic”, he said.
ARTS
The #IAmNotAVirus project provides Asian artists with a platform to express their experiences of racism as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic through art. Lena Nahlous, the creative director, says the project is important to the community as it offers an “opportunity for creatives to counter the stereotypical narratives that are often fodder for racism.”
Mood Active Program Participants. Photo: Samuel Thompson
looks to use physical exercise to better manage people’s mental health.” It allows people to get back into routine, while bettering their mental and physical health. The extra funding will allow the team to better market the program to a specific group of people. Mr. Thompson applauds the grants program and says it’s “a great avenue for
A $10,000 grant from council will “provide 10 Asian Australian artists who live or work in Inner West LGA the opportunity to share their perspectives on COVID-related racism”, Ms. Nahlous says. Ms. Nahlous feels that artists are often leaders of social movements and confronting Anti-Asian and Anti-Chinese racism through art will create important discussions in the community.
IndieNEWS
‘Highly inappropriate’: NYE portaloo fiasco By DANIEL LO SURDO Inner West residents were left bewildered last month as over 90 portable toilets were delivered to foreshore parks in Balmain East and Birchgrove in preparation for New Year’s Eve celebrations, despite Inner West Council declaring the popular vantage points closed over three weeks earlier. Inner West Council Mayor Darcy Byrne pleaded with residents to continue following the State Government’s COVID-19 restrictions, notwithstanding the portaloos being readied to accommodate large gatherings. “New Year’s Eve has now become the most dangerous date on the 2020 calendar,” Byrne said. “Please don’t come to our harbour foreshore parks … we will risk a major, Sydney-wide outbreak of the virus tomorrow.” Dozens of TFH Hire portaloos were delivered to multiple foreshore parks including Illoura Reserve and Thornton Park on December 30th. Contractors
TFH Hire quote $200 and GST for a single fresh-water portaloo. The dozens of toilets were removed from the parks in the early hours of December 31st. Council directed responsibility for the confusion to the NSW Police, who commanded that the portable toilets be delivered to the Inner West.
If council has made a mistake, we made a mistake “NSW Police had insisted that portaloos be brought into Balmain and Birchgrove parks, despite Council closing all foreshore parks,” a Council spokesperson told the Inner West Independent. “On 30 December, this decision was reversed in line with Council advice.”
COUNCILLOR STAMOLIS SLAMS BYRNE’S RESPONSE
The Independent understands Council activated teams of staff to prepare the
foreshore parks in the days leading up to New Year’s Eve. The maintenance was conducted only days prior to the portaloo’s arrival in the Inner West. “It was [as] though Council was actively working to have something going on at our foreshore parks,” Stamolis told the Inner West Independent. “If [Byrne] wants to blame police for the portaloos, then who authorised all the cleaning up and preparing of the parks?” Foreshore parks were declared closed by Council for New Year’s Eve on December 8th. The decision was made to ensure the safety of Inner West residents in the festive season and to avoid a new cluster developing amidst the Council-run events. Stamolis believes Council should assume responsibility for the mishap rather than shifting blame onto Sydney’s frontline workers. “It’s highly inappropriate that [Byrne] lays blame on our essential services, who are doing everything to protect our community, and because of a mistake
Over 90 portaloos lined the Inner West’s foreshore parks ahead of New Year’s Eve. Photo: Supplied
of Council,” Stamolis said. “If Council has made a mistake, we made a mistake, and we don’t blame the police.” Foreshore parks in Balmain East and Birchgrove have long been staples of the Inner West’s New Year’s Eve celebrations. The parks offer perfect vantage points for the Sydney Harbour fireworks and welcome hundreds of guests each year for the event.
Council slashes meetings in 2021 Lockie told the Inner West Independent. “The previous schedule left [Council staff] little time to implement decisions, or brief Councillors on matters of strategic importance.” Inner West Council had initially adopted a cycle of one meeting per month, however difficulties with efficiently dealing with Council business comprised a subsequent schedule that included meetings on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month. The new schedule will provide Councillors with further opportunity to fulfill their roles in the Inner West community. “Allowing more time to do these briefings is critical,” Lockie said.
INNER WEST COUNCILLOR JOHN STAMOLIS CONDEMNS LABOR-LED MOTION
The Inner West council has voted to halve the number of meetings. Photo: Inner West Council
BY DANIEL LO SURDO nner West Council has decided to halve the amount of Council Meetings taking place in 2021. The recommendation to decrease two monthly meetings down to one was made official in December when a majority of Councillors led by Mayor Darcy Byrne expressed their support for the motion.
I
Independent Councillor Pauline Lockie, who voted in favour of the proposal, believes the change will create a streamlined governing process that will better serve Inner West residents. “I’ve been concerned for some time now that our meetings haven’t been effective or efficient when it comes to delivering the best outcomes for our community,”
Independent Councillor John Stamolis, one of six representatives opposed to the recommendation, believes the move stems from a desire to control public opinion of Mayor Byrne’s Council for the upcoming Local Government elections in the first week of September. All five Labor Councillors, spearheaded by Byrne, joined Councillors Lockie and Victor Macri to form a majority in favour of cutting Council meetings in 2021. “We’ll move to one of the lightest workloads of any Council in the nation,” Stamolis told The Independent.
“It is failing the public, it is failing the community and it’s a desperate political move to close down our Council from public scrutiny and public transparency.” With Council currently undertaking their rates harmonisation process, recruiting its new General Manager and dealing with continued financial stress, Stamolis disclosed to The Independent that the fortnightly meetings were already teeming with affairs.
Allowing more time to do these briefings is critical “The meetings are overflowing with items already,” Stamolis said. “Not only [now] do Councils have half the time, the public now have half the time and half the issues to [discuss] in an open and transparent forum.” The altered meeting schedule will now match those of the neighbouring City of Sydney and Canterbury-Bankstown Councils, that both meet monthly. Council will now meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month of 2021, except for July’s recess, September’s elections, and December’s Christmas. The Local Government Act 1993 requires Council to meet at least 10 times a year, each time in a different month. Inner West Council meetings will continue to be held remotely under the health advice of the State Government. INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
9
IndieNEWS
Anti-mask conspiracy believers fined
Widespread COVID-19 conspiracy theories lead to anti-mask sentiment. Photo: Pexels & various
BY ALLISON HORE n anti-COVID conspiracy theorist was arrested this month for failing to comply with the COVID-19 public health order requiring Sydneysiders to wear a mask in public. This comes as a number of public figures, including an Australian MP, are being slammed online for spreading misinformation about masks and COVID-19. A 55-year-old man who was not wearing a mask was stopped by police officers at Central Station at about 7am on Friday. When officers asked the man to put on a mask he told them he believed COVID-19 was “a hoax” and refused to put on a mask or leave the location. The man was arrested and taken to Sydney City Police Station where he was charged for failing to comply with the COVID-19 public health order requiring masks be worn on public transport and in public transport waiting areas. The man was granted conditional bail to appear at Downing Centre Local Court in early February. Another 28-year old anti-masker was issued a $200 fine after he claimed the public health order requiring him to wear a mask was a “human rights violation”. The pair join a growing number of people who have been arrested or fined for failing to comply with Sydney’s mask mandate which came into force in January. Venues where mask wearing is required include shopping centres,
A
10
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
indoor entertainment venues, places of worship and hospitality venues. Commuters catching trains, buses, ferries or any other sort of public transport are not allowed to board without a mask.
HOAX CLAIMS WIDESPREAD ON SOCIAL MEDIA With COVID-19 hoax claims and conspiracy theories all over the web, it’s no surprise some people in the streets are buying into it and flouting the public health orders. A survey conducted by The Guardian and YouGov-Cambridge Globalism Project last year revealed an alarming number of Australians believe COVID-19 conspiracy theories. Almost a third of Australians surveyed claimed coronavirus was deliberately created and spread by the Chinese Government. Another 23 percent of Aussie respondents bought into the idea the virus was developed by some powerful forces in the business world. In September, 19 anti-lockdown protesters were arrested and issued with $1,000 fines at Hyde Park for participating in an unauthorised protest against the public health orders. At a sister rally that took place in Sydney Olympic Park, crowds chanted “shove your new world order up your arse” in reference to the conspiracy theory COVID-19 was created by a cabal of world leaders to control the masses.
To stop the spread of COVID-19 misinformation tech giants are cracking down on influencers posting unfounded and dangerous claims. Television Chef Pete Evans is more well known these days for his antivaccination and anti-lockdown rants than he is for his cooking. His podcast was removed from Spotify this week after the platform deemed his claims about COVID-19 to be “dangerous, false, deceptive and misleading.” The former My Kitchen Rules judge also had his page removed from Facebook after “repeated violations” of the platforms’ policies against the sharing of misinformation about COVID-19.
He told them he believed COVID-19 was “a hoax Facebook said in a statement at the time they “don’t allow anyone to share misinformation about COVID-19 vaccines that have been debunked by public health experts.”
MASKS “CHILD ABUSE” CLAIMS KELLY But it’s not just celebrities and social media influencers who’ve been slammed for sharing misinformation about COVID-19 on social media. Craig Kelly, a member of the Liberal party and the federal member for Hughes in Sydney’s South, also came under fire this week for claiming mandatory mask wearing was akin to child abuse.
On his Facebook page Mr. Kelly shared the link to a not-yet-peerreviewed study out of Germany which claimed the negative effects of children wearing masks include “irritability, headaches and difficulty concentrating”. Mr. Kelly posted the link alongside his own poorly spelled commentary which read “COMPLUSORY MASK MANDATES: CHILD ABUSE”. “What other conclusion can be drawn from this first ever published study, other than that forcing children to wear masks is causing massive physical & psychological harm - that can only be defined as child abuse,” he wrote. “I’m not aware of a single published study that shows a single benefit from forcing children to wear masks.” Mr. Kelly’s post about mask wearing has been shared more than 1,000 times on Facebook and attracted almost 3,000 reactions. Despite the post’s unverified claims being spread so widely, senior members of the Liberal party have resisted calls to condemn Mr. Kelly’s posts. Instead of condemning his colleague, Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt urged Australians to follow the advice of medical professionals. “We follow the advice of the medical advisers,” he said. “And many people, as I’ve just said, will put out differing views. Many of those views have been shown to be wrong.” A survey of over 1,000 people by progressive think tank the Australia Institute found 77 percent of Australians agree Prime Minister Scott Morrison had a responsibility to call out Liberal MPs who posted COVID-19 misinformation. Deputy director of the Australia Institute, Ebony Bennett, told SBS News that if the prime minister doesn’t correct misinformation it could jeopardise the vaccine roll out. “Vaccinating the Australian population against COVID-19 will be one of the largest peacetime operations in Australian history and if MPs who spread misinformation like Craig Kelly have the tacit endorsement of the Prime Minister it will only jeopardise and undermine the success of the public health effort,” she said. The WHO advises that children over 12 “should wear a mask under the same conditions as adults” especially when social distancing cannot be maintained. The WHO and UNICEF also recommend that under some circumstances it would be appropriate to mandate masks for younger children, between the ages of 6 and 11.
Cat Boutique For all your cat care essentials including cat food & litter, flea & worm treatments, health supplements, bedding, toys, scratch posts and more, plus gifts for cat lovers.
Our Cat Boutique is open 7 days, 10am to 5pm 85 Enmore Road Newtown 9519 7201
www.catprotection.org.au INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
11
IndieNEWS
From food waste to fuel
Rates harmonisation winners and losers
BY ALLISON HORE pcoming changes to the way rates are calculated in the Inner West will leave some ratepayers out of pocket up to 20 percent more. Currently there are three rates structures across the Inner West. This disparity comes as a result of the three pre-amalgamation councils- Ashfield Council, Leichhardt Council and Marrickville Council- using different structures to calculate rates. But under the NSW Government’s Local Government Act all amalgamated councils are required by law to “harmonise” rates by July this year. This will mean there will be one, consistent, rating system across the whole Inner West local government area.
U
A food waste recycling initiative in the Inner West turns food scraps into fuel. Photo: Facebook/Darcy Byrne
BY ALLISON HORE food waste recycling scheme in the Inner West is transforming uneaten food into renewable energy. The food waste recycling service in Leichhardt has been operating since 2008, in 500 apartment buildings and 5,000 households. Inner West Mayor, Darcy Byrne, first introduced the program when he was mayor of the pre-amalgamation Leichhardt council. But 2020 saw the program roll out into more areas of the Inner West.
largest commercial and industry waste. At the household level, a City of Sydney audit conducted in 2016 revealed food waste made up the largest portion of the domestic garbage bin. In the Inner West, it’s estimated 35 percent of all household waste is food waste. Limited access to food waste collection systems is one of the major drivers of this problem, alongside over-purchasing of food and confusion over best before dates. When disposed of in landfill, food “This year saw the expansion of our waste produces methane which is food organics recycling service into 26 times more potent than carbon the former Marrickville Municipality, dioxide and contributes significantly reaching residents in a further 11,400 apartments,” said Mr. Byrne to the production of greenhouse gas emissions. “Our aim is to bring But when the food recycling Our aim is to bring the recycled through service to every a composting food recycling service to home in the Inner process, food every home West as soon as waste can be possible.” used to produce Residents participating in the food environmentally friendly fertilisers waste recycling scheme receive and biogas. kitchen bench top bins, special Through the Inner West council’s compostable bags and information food waste scheme, an average to assist them in separating food of 107 tonnes of food waste is organics at home. The organic collected annually. waste collected in these bench top This waste is then shipped to a bins is then disposed of into large Sydney-based company called streetside bins with burgundy lids. EarthPower Technologies who convert This year, Mr. Byrne says the service the food scraps into a combustible will be further extended into the gas, similar to natural gas. The gas Ashfield area. is used to produce electricity which is then sold onto the grid.
A
THE COST OF WASTE
Food waste is estimated to cost the Australian economy $20 billion each year and can occur at every step of the cycle of production and consumption. According to the NSW Environmental Protection Agency, in NSW, food waste is the second 12
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
Mayor Byrne’s ambitions for the food waste recycling scheme don’t stop in the Inner West. He, alongside mayors of other councils across Sydney, are pressuring the NSW government to roll out a metropolitan wide scheme this year.
of cash forked out for rates, while those in Marrickville are likely to see an increase. Independent Inner West councillor Pauline Lockie said while she believes the changes are more equitable it is important for locals to understand how they will be impacted by the changes. “While harmonisation means rates will be paid equitably in proportion to the land value in the Inner West, what this means for those of us in the old Marrickville LGA is that, for almost all of us, our rates will be going up,” said Ms. Lockie In the 2020 to 2021 financial year, the average Marrickville homeowner is paying around $765. Under the harmonised scheme, that amount will increase to $908.
Changes to the way council rates are calculated in the Inner West may see some ratepayers out of pocket 20 percent more. Photo: Wikimedia
Rates will be calculated in proportion to property valuations supplied by the NSW Valuer General, with a consistent minimum rate across the whole amalgamated local government area. The Inner West council say that they are not increasing rates overall but as a result of harmonisation some residents’ rates may increase while others’ rates will decrease. This means the changes “will not increase the total rate revenue received.” The total amount of rates revenue received may only be increased each year in line with the rate peg.
Those owning residential properties of lower than average value in the former Leichhardt local government area will also see their rates increase significantly from around $686 to the minimum rate of $850. Those in the area with properties of average or higher than average value will see an 8 percent decrease in rates.
For almost all of us, our rates will be going up
In the former Ashfield council area rates on residential properties are estimated to drop by between 14 to 30 percent. WINNERS AND LOSERS The new minimum rate for residential Businesses will see an increase in rates properties will be $850, while for businesses across the board in Marrickville and Ashfield. it will be $820. But for Leichhardt businesses, rates will drop. On average, residents in the former Ashfield The Inner West council is collecting feedback and Leichhardt council areas will- for the on the new rates structure until the 7th of most part- see a decrease in the amount February.
Queer Screen’s 28th
Mardi Gras Film Festival 18 Feb - 4 Mar 2021 Online | In Cinema Rūrangi
Supernova
When transgender activist Caz returns to his isolated hometown in New Zealand, he must confront his past and move forward from the regrets he’s been running from. Winner of the Frameline44 Audience Award, Rūrangi is about the power of embracing one’s identity in all its forms. Created by members of New Zealand’s queer, Māori, and gender-diverse communities.
Sam and Tusker have been together for twenty years, and remain passionately in love. But when Tusker was diagnosed with earlyonset dementia their lives were changed forever. Acting powerhouses Colin Firth and Stanley Tucci deliver two understated, career-best performances in this must-see drama.
The World to Come
Suk Suk
With her lustrous red mane, Tallie arrives in Abigail’s world crackling electric, and with an evident hunger for something more. Marked with the soft hue of 16 mm film, The World to Come gives us stunning performances by Katherine Waterston and Vanessa Kirby in a sublime film about the astonishment and joy of finding yourself through connection with another.
A rare opportunity to lose yourself in the world and lives of Hong Kong through the eyes of two closeted older men and their blossoming relationship. The winner of more than 15 international awards, this is a truly moving, beautiful film about finding love in your twilight years that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
FULL PROGRAM RELEASED 13 JAN
QUEERSCREEN.ORG.AU INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
13
IndieNEWS
Callan park cash boost a “historic achievement” proposals for the sell-off, privatisation and development of Callan Park, this is a genuinely historic achievement,” said Mr. Parker. Community group Friends of Callan Park, who have been advocating for the park’s protection since 1998, also welcomed the announcement and said it was “great news”. “After decades of campaigning- finally some action,” they said on Facebook.
PRESERVING HERITAGE
The Kirkbride precinct at Callan Park now has round the clock security to protect it from vandalism. Photo: Supplied
BY ALLISON HORE allan Park advocates are celebrating the announcement of a further $4 million in funding for park upgrades which the NSW Government hope will transform the park into “one of the true jewels in Sydney’s crown.” The funding announcement comes as the NSW and Department of Planning, Industry and Environment released their final Callan Park Landscape Structure Plan (LSP) which they say brings a continuous green link connecting the Sydney Harbour foreshore one step closer. In the LSP the NSW government lays out an ambitious vision for the future of the once neglected Lilyfield park which has faced threat from vandals and redevelopment under both Labor and Liberal governments. “Callan Park will be an iconic urban park,” they say. “A park with a mosaic of gardens, landscapes and recreation opportunities for Sydneysiders to explore. It will celebrate and treasure its unique heritage and position on the waterfront.” The first priorities of the LSP are creating more green space along the park’s waterfront and creating a network of pathways to make the 60-hectare park
C
14
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
more accessible and easier to navigate. In July last year the NSW Government announced $10 million in additional funding would be committed to the “forgotten” and “neglected” Callan park. The funding came as part of the NSW Government’s plan to bring together the management of all of Sydney’s parks into one super-agency, the Greater Sydney Parklands (GSP).
After decades of campaigningfinally some action But this week Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes announced an extra $4 million would be directed into the Callan Park makeover which he said is a “significant milestone” for the new public parklands authority. “Greater Sydney Parklands is the first body to have a Metropolitan-wide focus on the city’s green spaces, and these plans for Callan Park are the first step in our vision to connect Sydney’s stunning harbour foreshore with public parks and green links,” Mr. Stokes said. Callan Park was the first park identified by the GSP as in need of urgent need of restorative work. Mr. Stokes said upcoming works in the park, which he called one of the city’s “great forgotten jewels”, will include
the Bay Run being fully pedestrianised and upgraded, the removal of two dilapidated buildings, new picnic areas, parks, accessible amenities and the promotion of the area’s Indigenous cultural heritage. “These works will see a tricky section of the Bay Run fixed, meaning pedestrians and cyclists will no longer have to weave around motorists looking for parking in a space that will make better use of its prime position on the foreshore,” explained Minister Stokes.
A DECADES LONG BATTLE
Alongside Minister Stokes for the announcement of the funding boost and release of the final LSP was member for Balmain, Jamie Parker of the Greens. Mr. Stokes acknowledged Mr. Parker’s work over the years to save the park. “I’d like to thank and acknowledge the Member for Balmain Jamie Parker, who has been a tireless advocate of Callan Park for more than 20 years,” he said. Mr. Parker said while there is still “much to do” for the park’s future to be secured including the establishment of a trust, the funding injection and LSP are a “fantastic achievement”. “On a personal note, after twenty years fighting Labor and Liberal government
From a grand estate in the 1830s to a public mental asylum in the 1850s, the Callan Park grounds hold their fair share of history. Callan Park’s Kirkbride precinct continued to be used for patients until the 1990s, when Sydney University’s college of the arts moved in. Today there are over 130 buildings and structures throughout Callan Park, some of which have significant heritage value including the Garry Owen House, Broughton Hall and the Kirkbride Courtyard and Tower. The LSP recommends that “all buildings of moderate, high or exceptional heritage value” are retained and options for adaptive reuse and sensitive development of these buildings are investigated. One building known as “building 497”, will be revamped to house the Balmain and District Football Club. 24 buildings 10 ancillary structures deemed not of historical significance are earmarked for removal to help open up the park to the waterfront. “There are buildings on the site that are of no heritage value, that scar the environment and separate the parkland from the harbour,” Mr. Stokes told the Sydney Morning Herald. When asked about the future of the historic Kirkbride precinct which has remained unoccupied since the Sydney College of the Arts moved out in May last year, Mr. Parker said the building is currently undergoing a number of repairs and it now has 24 hour on site security to protect it from vandalism. He said an expression of interest process for a new tenant is underway. As well as its historic significance, Callan Park is an important piece of green space for the Inner West, used by thousands of locals for both passive and active recreation activities. The local government area has the third highest population density in the state but the third lowest ratio of open space. A development application for the first stage of improvements at the waterfront in Callan Park will be lodged in early March, says Minister Stokes. Work on site is expected to begin later this year.
IndieNEWS
Assange extradition ruling a double edged sword
BY ALLISON HORE n Monday a UK judge ruled that Wikileaks founder, Julian Assange, cannot be extradited to the United States after accepting medical evidence he would be at risk in US custody. Assange has been in prison in the UK since 2019 after hiding out in the Ecuadorian Embassy for seven years to avoid extradition. In the USA he faces 14 espionage charges, which could result in 175 years in jail if he was found guilty. Despite the ruling against extradition, Mr. Assange will not yet walk free. The USA will appeal the judge’s ruling and will remain in prison in the UK through the process. Mr. Assange’s barrister Ed Fitzgerald said his client had been offered a London home by a supporter, where he would be able to stay with his partner and two children while the US lodged their appeal. But district judge Vanessa Baraitser said if bail was granted Mr. Assange posed a risk of absconding before the appeals process was completed. “As a matter of fairness, the US must be allowed to challenge my decision,” the judge said, adding Assange had “already demonstrated a willingness to flout” bail conditions set by the court.
O
In December, Julian Assange’s father John Shipton told City Hub the emotional toll of imprisonment and exile on Assange has been “terrible” and said it “just doesn’t stop”. “Julian is in a cell for the next 23 hours, he only gets an hour out and then he’s back in the cell, so we don’t have any toll on us. But Julian carries, for all of us, the toll.”
MEDIA FREEDOM OVERLOOKED
For Assange’s supporters back home in Australia the extradition decision was a double edged sword.
The judge showed no concern for press freedom In a public state MEAA Media Federal President, Marcus Strom, said the ruling against extradition was a “relief” for Assange’s family and supporters. However, Mr. Strom said the union was “dismayed” press freedom was not a factor in the judge’s decision making and that journalists everywhere should be concerned. “...The judge showed no concern for press freedom in any of her comments today, and effectively accepted the US arguments that journalists can be
Artist’s impression
Supporters of Julian Assange gather at Sydney’s Town Hall last year. Photo: Allison Hore
prosecuted for exposing war crimes and other government secrets, and for protecting their sources,” he said. “The stories for which he was being prosecuted were published by WikiLeaks a decade ago and revealed war crimes and other shameful actions by the United States government. They were clearly in the public interest.” In 2010, Assange’s website, Wikileaks, published almost 400,000 United
States Army field reports from the Iraq war between 2004 and 2009. The files recorded more than 60,000 civilian deaths, including the deaths of two Reuters journalists who were listed as “enemy killed in action”. Should the appeal go his way, Mr. Assange will be free to return home to Australia, said Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaking to Melbourne’s 3AW radio station on Tuesday.
You’re invited. Uniting Leichhardt could be your dream downsize. If you’re considering retirement living, join us for a free seminar with Robert Craven, from Alteris Lifestyle and Care.
Free seminar
Discover the financial benefits of downsizing to a retirement village, and learn more about the brand new apartments. When: Friday 19 February, 2.30-4.30pm Where: Leichhardt Bowling Club Limited spaces, bookings essential Visit uniting.org/leichhardt-event or call 1800 864 846 © Copyright Uniting NSW.ACT 2021 21-IL-753.JAN21
Employment & Vocational Support
Support for people living with HIV across NSW to engage or reconnect with study, vocational training, paid or voluntary work Contact Positive Life NSW on (02) 9206 2177 or 1800 245 677 (f reecall)
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
15
IndieNEWS
Delays plague bath reopening “We had a king tide in January of this year and the kiosk and amenities including the toilets were inundated, which means we have to raise the whole structure so that we prevent future inundation,” Greens councillor Rochelle Porteous told the Sydney Morning Herald. “This requires resources which are beyond the capacity of all local councils and the state government needs to step up.” If urgent renovations were not undertaken to address these issues then the Dawn Fraser baths risked being condemned. “Because of sea level rises and the deterioration of the timber, the whole pool needs to be lifted up which is a very expensive exercise,” Mr. Byrne said. “The simple fact is if we don’t undertake the work to keep the doors open, within a couple years Dawn Fraser pool will be lost.”
MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR UPGRADE
Finding the funding to complete the renovations, which have set the council back more than $6 million, had been an issue To fund the extensive construction work, $2.1 million set aside for an indoor sports centre had to be redirected into the baths.
The Dawn Fraser baths in Balmain received a multimillion dollar makeover. Photo: Wikimedia
BY ALLISON HORE onstruction delays have plagued the reopening of Australia’s oldest sea pool. Located in Elkington Park, Balmain, the Dawn Fraser Baths were not reopened for the start of the summer swim season as the Inner West Council had hoped. The popular swimming spot has been closed since September 2019 for extensive renovations to preserve the pool’s heritage and to make it safer for swimmers. Initially, the council said the pool would be reopened “well before the October 2020 swimming season”. But unforeseen structural issues set the pools’ opening back from October until December. When workers demolished the southern pavilion and boardwalk so they could be rebuilt, they were found to have no structural foundations. This was one of a number of delays plaguing the pool’s reopening. At the start of December, Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne announced the reopening of the baths would be delayed until boxing day. But the Christmas and New Year period came and went, and there was still no word on when the baths would be reopened. When asked when the pool would reopen, a representative from the
C
16
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
council told the Inner West Independent the upgrades to the heritage baths are “nearly complete” but that challenges in installing fire safety equipment mean no reopening date has been finalised. “A date for opening has not yet been set due to some challenges with supplying water to fire hydrants and sprinklers for emergency services,” a council spokesperson told the Inner West Independent. “Engineers are finalising plans for the water pipe which will be installed down a steep bank while protecting significant trees.” Excavation to lay the pipework revealed the steep bank through it was supposed to be laid in was unstable. Council say they are currently working with engineers to come up with a plan to install the pipes and are progressing the work “as quickly as possible”. However, due to the ground’s instability, heavy machinery cannot be used which means further excavation work must be completed with smaller machinery or by hand.
SAVING A PIECE OF HISTORY Added to NSW Heritage Register in 2000, the Dawn Fraser Baths stand as one of the few remaining tidal public pools in Sydney Harbour. It’s home to
the country’s oldest water polo and swimming club. The shark-proof pool was built in 1882 by James Reynolds and while it has been modified, its Victorian charm remains. Before its construction Balmain locals would swim off Mort’s Dock when it was not being used for ship repairs. The pool was renamed in the 1960s after local Olympic champion Dawn Fraser, who learnt to swim there.
Your first swim in Dawny’s will be worth the wait Despite its significance, and being beloved by the community, the pool had fallen into disrepair. An investigation in 2018 revealed the historic swimming spot had become so run down it posed a public safety risk. Staff warned, “the baths may need to close due to major risks of structural failure and flood water inundation impacting sewer and electrical safety.” As well as structural issues, rising sea levels also threatened the future of the baths. The baths are already at risk of severe flooding during unusually high tides that occur a few times a year, but predicted water levels in the Sydney Harbour by 2050 would leave all the pool’s amenities under water during a normal high tide.
After campaigning from the community and council, this was supplemented with a $2.2 million grant from the NSW Government and a $500,000 grant from the Commonwealth Government. The renovations included the southern pavilion and boardwalk being raised and reconstructed, improved drainage, the installation of a sea wall and the construction of accessible amenities. Lights were also installed around the pool to accommodate the UTS Balmain Tigers Water Polo Club who call the baths home. The Inner West Council say all these works have been completed. Mayor Byrne thanked the local community for their patience throughout the renovation period and subsequent delays. He said he hopes the community’s “first swim in Dawny’s will be worth the wait.” He said the council is also looking at options to extend the summer swimming season, which usually runs from October to April each year, to make up for all the delays. In the meantime, council suggests keen swimmers make use of some of the other pools and swim spots in the Inner West including the $44.7 million Ashfield Aquatic Centre which opened in October last year.
IndieNEWS
The uncomfortable reality of January 26th
Gatherers at the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council 2020 March. Photo: Nathan Moran
The Inner West Independent would like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Owners of the land, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We also pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and that sovereignty was never ceded. BY BRIANNAH DEVLIN he 26th of January, also known as Australia Day, looked different this year. It was different because of the pandemic but also because of the persevering sentiments of the Black Lives Matter movement. It was a reminder that respect and reconciliation are more important than ever, and issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are a daily reality. The day also brings forth controversy, and questions about its meaning and necessity. This is the second year that Inner West Council is not running any events to commemorate the holiday. In November 2019, the council voted not to have events on the 26th, apart from a small “respectful citizenship ceremony”, moving celebratory events to another day. Mayor Darcy Byrne said on Facebook at the time it was announced, while a small step, it is the “right thing to do”. The council encourages residents to attend the Yabun Festival which is “the day to learn about the history of the world’s oldest, continuous human civilisation.” Yabun, which is the Gadigal translation for ‘music to beat’, began in Waverly in 2003 with live music and traditional cultural performances. It also now includes panel discussions and community forums for
T
people to engage in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues. Additionally, the event gives attendees the opportunity to purchase Indigenous arts and crafts, and for children to meet Indigenous role models.
THE IMPACT OF COVID-19
Last year, the 26th of January was able to go ahead without a need for limited capacities, masks, sanitiser, social distancing and QR codes. This year, many events have been cancelled, or were carried out at a distance. One of the events impacted is the Yabun Festival. In the lead up to the event which is annually held on the 26th of January at Victoria Park and “surrounding venues”, Yabun Festival announced on Facebook that it was going to be a closed event, with a very limited public capacity. The “closed event” was streamed online, and on Koori Radio 93.7FM. It was streamed across three different venues; Yabun stage, Speak Out and Corroboree. “This means for the first time ever audiences can attend Yabun Festival from Australia and from the world.” Another event that had to be cancelled as a consequence of restrictions was the Day of Mourning Commemorative event, which commemorates the day in 1938. The event would usually involve a morning tea, march and performances. Biripi and Dunghutti Goorie man, and CEO of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, Nathan Moran said that while it has been cancelled for the first time, it provides the opportunity for people to acknowledge the anniversary at a distance.
“The actual event of 1938 on the 26th of January is at 1 o’clock, certainly putting it out to people that might want to honour that with a minute silence, or at least a moment of reflection, to coincide with the commencement of the conference in 1938,” he said.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT, RESPECT AND RECONCILIATION A biennial research study from Reconciliation Australia called The Australian Reconciliation Barometer has revealed there is more support than ever for a reconciled nation amongst Australians in 2020. According to the study, ninety-five percent of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, and ninety-one percent nonIndigenous participants, value the relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
It’s a very tough reality,
because we have a very different experience on that day
“That one really gives me so much hope. To me that number speaks volumes”, said non-Indigenous Co-Chair of Reconciliation New South Wales Annie Tennant, who chairs the organisation with Indigenous Co-Chair and Worimi man Joshua Gilbert. “But we must do more to reconcile to have a truly holistic and reconciled community.” The NAIDOC Committee has just announced the theme of NAIDOC Week from the 4th to 11th of July 2021 will be
“Heal Country!”. Reconciliation Australia also announced that the theme for National Reconciliation Week is “More than a Word. Reconciliation takes Action”.
EDUCATION IS KEY
Ms. Tennant told the Inner West Independent that it is crucial to learn and understand the meaning and impact of the invasion in 1788, which destroyed Indigenous lands and identities. “I think that many people view our nation probably through rose coloured glasses. And I think it is really important to acknowledge that,” she said. “When people understand the impact of that date on others, it becomes more personal, and they will understand how it makes other people feel. It’s actually a day of mourning for some people.” Mr. Moran agreed, saying the day is not one for celebration and the consequences of the day for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people still persist. “It’s a very tough reality, because we have a very different experience on that day, but we hope that many Australians can start learning about what is the 26th of January.” The Black Lives Matter movement reignited conversations about the treatment and experiences of Indigenous Australians with high incarceration rates, and a high number of deaths in custody. Many are using the 26th of January to march, and bring justice to those who have lost their lives as a consequence of mistreatment and violence at the hands of institutions. “It’s just sad that it takes overseas incidents before this country takes stock of what it is doing to our mob,” Moran said. INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
17
IndieNEWS
NEWS IN BRIEF MASKS MADE LOCAL A seagull tangled in a face mask. Photo: RSPCA
I
SNIP THOSE STRAPS BY ALLISON HORE he RSPCA is urging people to cut the straps on disposable face masks before throwing them in the trash after an ibis was found entangled in one in Brisbane. Current COVID-19 public health orders require masks to be worn in indoor public spaces and public transport. However, little guidance has been given on how to properly dispose of or recycle disposable masks. Senior rescue unit officer Jo Jordaan told the ABC a report was made about an ibis being spotted with a mask around its legs outside a Queensland art
T
gallery. The ibis was not found but Ms. Jordaan said it’s just one of many calls reporting masks entangling wildlife around the world. “Sadly one is too many, but we’ve been getting increasing calls as of late,” Ms. Jordaan said. “Just like other parts of the world it is very disturbing that our wildlife is starting to be impacted by these surgical masks.” So before you toss out that mask, snip those straps. Just don’t pick up masks you see discarded on the street to cut the straps. Despite good intentions, keep in mind discarded face masks can still carry COVID-19!
FULLY LICENSED PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT Alberto’s Pizzeria Restaurant was established 38 years ago and has been successfully catering to the locals of the Inner West ever since. Quality food, huge servings and a wide selection make Albertos a must-dine experience.
GENEROUS TOPPINGS PROMPT SERVICE UNBEATABLE VALUE FOR MONEY
TA PAS IAL
C
SPE
BUY ANY
2
PASTA AND GET
1 LARGE DRINK ORDER ONLINE
FOR
FREE
OPEN 7 DAYS
5:30pm till late
A
BUY ANY
PIZZ
SPE
CIAL
2
GOURMET OR EXOTIC PIZZA AND GET
3
d GARLIC OR MARGARITA OF THE SAME SIZE THE
FREE
FOR (Offer expires 31.05.2021)
02 9519 4262 • 589 King Street NEWTOWN orders@albertospizza.com.au • www.albertospizza.com.au 18
BY ALLISON HORE nstead of contributing to landfill with disposable masks, and putting wild animals at risk, why not consider buying a reusable face mask from one of many local makers? Not only will it help keep the environment clean it will support local businesses. It’s a win win! When looking for a face mask remember the most important thing is the mask fits well and does not leave gaps. Look for a mask with 3 layers of fabric for extra protection. Even masks made from natural fibres like cotton can provide “significant protection” against small airborne particles, according to researchers from the American Chemical society. Independent councillor Pauline Lockie put out a list of some great local mask makers last year. One of her selections included BubbaNBooBoo, a vintage-inspired children’s wear brand by a local mum named Sylvia. She also suggested buying from Newtown social enterprise The Social Outfit
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
who have a “B1-G1” scheme on their face masks- for every mask bought the brand will donate one mask to a person in need. For a complete list of awesome local makers check out “Where to buy locally made face masks in the Inner West” on councillor Lockie’s blog.
Reusable face masks. Photo: The Social Outfit
COFFIN ED’S NAKED CITY
I
HAPPY DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN!
can’t say that I have ever been much of a fan of Lady Gaga but I will admit she did a belting version of the Star Spangled Banner at Joe Biden’s inauguration last week. And let’s quash the rumour that there were three secret service agents concealed in that bellowing dress she was wearing. You wonder if Trump was actually watching, holed up in Mar-a-Lago with Melania in her moo moo. If so I am sure the singer’s inclusion would have raised his immediate ire. During one of his campaign rallies Trump attacked both Beyonce and Gaga for their support of Joe Biden, claiming they had nothing better to do. He then went on to say he had stories about Lady Gaga, suggesting he had some dirt on the singer but for the time being was keeping it to himself. Nasty! From his initial campaign, through his time in office and throughout the most recent election, it’s no secret Trump’s lack of patronage from the celebrity end of the music community has been a real dent to his monstrous ego. The number of high profile singers who have come out to endorse Trump can almost be
counted on one hand. Kid Rock, Wayne Newton, Gene Simmons and gun toting Ted Nugent have been vocal supporters as was Kanye West prior to his own bid for the Presidency. Yet none of the real heavy hitters, with their patriotic anthems like Bruce Springsteen, have ever wanted a bar of him. Perhaps his most high profile supporter from the music community has been country singer Toby Keith who performed at his inauguration-eve Make America Great Again concert. Even then Keith was reluctant to declare any Republican allegiance claiming that “if the President of the frickin’ United States asks you to do something and you can go, you should go instead of being a jack-off.” Nevertheless Keith, along with fellow country crooner Ricky Skaggs, lined up to receive the National Arts Medal, bestowed by Trump after he had just been impeached for the second time. Whilst campaign songs and celebrity singers have long been part of the American election circus, the Australian experience has been far more restrained. Most musicians here have distanced themselves from outright endorsement of a particular political
party, whilst still speaking out on various issues like the environment and racism. The combination of a campaign song along with high profile singers is also rare although in 1972, the It’s Time advertising jingle was a brainstorm promotion that helped elect the Whitlam Labor government. As well as famous TV personalities, singers such as Little Pattie, Col Joye and Judy Stone appeared in the We Are The World style commercials. As far as I know there was no real backlash from the Libs or conservative
voters against those who lent their celebrity to the Labor campaign. However, a few years later in 1975, singer Renee Geyer was the target of criticism, some of it quite vicious, for just such an endorsement. She had recorded the Liberal Party’s theme song Turn On The Lights, later claiming she had only done so to earn enough money to record an album in the US. Not surprisingly, after copping flak from both fellow musicians and certain sections of the public she has since distanced herself from any political involvement in general. Mercifully, the campaign song appears to have disappeared from the Australian political landscape. Although more recently Clive Palmer entered a legal minefield when he appropriated Twisted Sister’s 1984 track We’re Not Gonna Take It for his spectacularly unsuccessful $60 million 2019 Federal election bid. In a court case that is yet to be finally settled Palmer is being sued by Universal Music for flagrant breach of copyright. Palmer has claimed that he wrote the lyrics in 2018, inspired by the 1976 movie Network which includes the line “I’m not going to take this anymore.”
BUSINESS DIRECTORY TREELOPPING ADULT
AAA active treelopping TREE REMOVAL / PRUNING LAND/ YARD CLEARING RUBBISH/ STUMP REMOVAL LANDSCAPING / TURFING FULLY INSURED
15 years experience
“ Sydney’s largest range of adult products”
- why go anywhere else -
LUNCH TIME ENTRY $5 now 7 DAYS !! NOON - 1PM private rooms looking for a quick hook-up glory holes or somewhere to play sling room cinema room with your on-line buddy? $13 entry (pass-out available)
FREE
QUOTES!
Jim: 0404 179 827 Email: activetreelopping@bigpond.com
AIR CONDITIONING
AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE SALES REPAIRS
LEGAL
SAVE $100
ON OUR CONVEYANCING PACKAGE OR WILLS PACKAGE* ● Over 25 years experience ● Conveyancing, Commercial & Retail Leasing ● Wills & Estates, Debt Recovery, Litigation, Bankruptcy & Insolvency, Service Station Franchising
COWORKING corner darling + church streets balmain village 0420 279 867 www.coywolfcoworking.com
ACCOUNTING
02 8916 6309
If it is your first home, or if it is time to renovate, refinance or invest, we’re here to help make it happen.
COVID SAFE APPROVED MASK & QR CODE CHECK-IN
24 HOUR CONVEYANCING HOTLINE:
SYDNEY AC
CALL DAVID 0406 289 129
C O Y W O L F
level 1 320 King St Newtown (02) 9557 0069
Use this discount code: IWIN2020
● ● ● ● ●
LEGAL
Level 2, 323 Darling Street, Balmain www.wrightlaw.com.au *Conditions Apply
Certified Practicing Accountant
BILL WANG
Tax Agent, BB, M.Tax, JP, CPA
T: (02) 8005 8385 M: 0411 987 522 Email: bill@billyward.com.au
Suite 1, 176-178 Cope St, Waterloo NSW 2017
Billyward Accounting Services is a CPA Practice INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
19
IndieARTS
FANGIRLS Photo: Brett Boardman
WE WILL ROCK YOU
Q
ueen fans get ready to rock as this phenomenally successful musical returns to the Riverside Theatre! We Will Rock You is based on the songs of Queen with a book by Ben Elton and has thrilled over 16 million theatergoers in 19 countries since 2002. Emma Mylott, who plays the role of Oz, has been singing since the age of twelve, appeared on The Voice, and also had a major role in last year’s production of Les Miserables. “It’s a fun musical with all Queen music and the characters are all over the top. It’s the story of an evil lady who wants to make everyone equal – think the same, listen to the same music, wear the same clothes, and have the same beliefs. Then there’s the Bohemians or rock musicians, who believe in individuality – and the battle is on!” With 50 performers and a live band on
stage the story unfolds through 24 of Queen’s most popular songs including We Are The Champions, Radio Ga Ga, I Want To Break Free and Bohemian Rhapsody. Mylott credits the show’s outstanding success to the music by Queen. “Queen’s music carries the show. Everybody loves their music and the show is also light and funny.” But do audiences have to be a fan of Queen to enjoy the show? “I don’t think so. I’m surprised at how many families are coming along. I’m hearing a lot of ‘we’re taking our kids to see it and they’re super excited’. All these young kids getting into Queen and rock music – I think that’s just awesome!” (MMo) Feb 12–27. Riverside Theatres Parramatta. $30-$64.75+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.riversideparramatta.com.au
B
elvoir hits summer with a big musical splash of Fangirls version two, which now returns after a sell-out debut season in 2019 when it won Best Production Of A Mainstage Musical at the Sydney Theatre Awards and Best Musical Or Cabaret at Queensland’s Matilda Awards Composer and playwright Yve Blake was thrilled with the reception her music, book and lyrics received first time round and now she anticipates audiences will love this next version. She says, “In 2019, our audiences responded like they were at a raucous concert, and after 2020, I’m so, so ready for the adrenaline hit of this show. If you saw the show last time, then you’re in for some new surprises, and you certainly are not ready for what Karis and our new cast bring to it. It’s truly FANGIRLS 2.0.” Blake has expanded the cast and introduced some new plot twists to
surprise and delight audiences. In her TEDtalk, Blake described a “fan girl” as a girl or woman who is “an extremely or overly enthusiastic fan of someone or something.” In the musical, 14-year-old Edna (Karis Oka) is in love with Harry (Aydan), the lead of the boy band True Connection. Her dilemma is how to attract his attention, and from this adolescent crush a lot of youthful singing and dancing is born. The Director is Paige Rattray (STC’s The Beauty Queen Of Leenane), and Fangirls is a co-production with Queensland Theatre and Brisbane Festival, in association with Australian Theatre for Young People (ATYP). (ID) Jan 30-Feb 20. Seymour Centre, Cnr of City Rd &, Cleveland St, Chippendale. $38-$84+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.belvoir.com.au
TWELFTH NIGHT (HEADS OR TAILS) Photo: Clare Hawley
20
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
I
f music be the food of love, you know this is heralding Shakespeare’s great comedy of cross dressing, cross purposes and slapstick comedy. At the beginning of this production, the first for Newtown’s New Theatre in 2021, the 12 actors toss a coin to see which of the two roles they have learned they will play on the evening. The story begins when the shipwrecked Viola, who is separated from her twin Sebastian, dresses as a boy, and falls in love
with the Duke Orsino, who in turn sends her to woo the lady Olivia on his behalf. The plot get complicated when Olivia falls in love with the boy who is actually the girl Viola. Director Viktor Kalka found his performers through social media and acting platforms. This young cast of 12 offers the audience a fast-paced romp which proves that Shakespearean comedy is not wasted on the young. While it is clear that some of the performers could have done
REVIEW
with more rehearsals and stronger voice coaching, this is such an endearing and enthusiastic caper that it leaves the audience smiling broadly and applauding heartily at the end of the last act. Eleni Cassimatis as Sir Toby and Sarah Greenwood as the vainglorious Malvolio are particularly notable in these roles. (ID) Until Jan 23. New Theatre, 542 King St, Newtown. $20-$38+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.newtheatre.org.au
IndieARTS
BEAUTIFUL THING
P
resented as part of the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras the next production to take to the stage at Newtown New Theatre is entitled Beautiful Thing. The production follows Jamie, a shy and bullied 15-year-old boy who is coming to terms with his sexuality. As the show plays out Jamie and Ste, the football-mad boy next door to whole Jamie has a crush on, grow closer and closer before ultimately falling for each other. When Jonathan Harvey wrote this tender, openhearted play about two damaged boys and the love that heals them, the age of consent for gay sex in the UK was still 21, it was illegal to ‘promote’ homosexuality in schools, and civil
unions and same-sex marriage weren’t even on the radar. Yet, nearly 30 years on, it still holds remarkable power, because what it explores is timeless: discovering your sexuality, finding love and acceptance, fighting your demons, surviving against the odds, being an outsider, and the importance of family and community What better way to celebrate Mardi Gras than with this funny, irreverent, deeply human coming-of-age love story, an urban fairy tale for our times. Feb 2-Mar 6. New Theatre, 542 King St, Newtown. $20-$35+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.newtheatre.org.au
SILENT BINGO
RICHARD WALKER - ILLUMINATED
I
f you haven’t heard the term “light painting,” you are in good company. Balmain photographer Richard Walker says he finds himself “spending a lot of time explaining” the art form he has spent several years exploring, returning to his passion for photography after a career in television directing. There are two components to his exhibit at the Art Gallery On Darling: indoor and outdoor light paintings. Both employ the manipulation of light as it interacts
with a camera and long exposures. In the studio, he sets up flowers and uses a specialist device to highlight the contours and colours of the flower. Outdoors, he sets up his camera on a long exposure and “paints” the subject with a torch. He does this as dusk falls, using the last of the natural light to emphasise the light painting against the “sky does the rest of it.” Like a sleuth for light, he dresses in dark clothing so as not be seen in his light paintings. Walker says that light can “accentuate the texture of a wall or the texture of bark … light shines on the subject.” Richard Walker will be on hand every day of the exhibition, to answer questions about his art and techniques. (OA) Feb 2-7. Art Gallery On Darling, 307 Darling St, Balmain. Info: www.artgalleryondarling.com.au
T
he iconic Town And Country in St Peters was first opened in 1881, in all those years many legends have walked through the door. In 1980, Australian country legend, Slim Dusty penned the song A Beer With Duncan that included the line ‘We drink at the Town And Country, Where the atmosphere is great’. In 2021 Sydney legend, Monica Mole presented a not so Silent Bingo, calling in all her friends to help entertain a sold out COVIDsafe event at the iconic venue with all proceeds going to the Deaf Rainbow NSW. Our hostess, Sandy Bottom was keeping everyone honest and the atmosphere was great! Prizes were flowing as she called the balls with plenty of musical interludes and comic moments. Players were entertained on the night from friends CC L’amour, Belle Rose and Monica got everyone into the raffles and jackpot rounds with help from Karen from Financials checking things twice. Ever been to the Town And Country? This is by far one of the friendliest
venues in the Inner West, Helen and the team at T&C are incredibly welcoming and the bistro offers some great food at reasonable prices and were proud sponsors of the night. Other sponsors included The Liquor Emporium at St Peters and Star Observer and Glen Whitfield on sound and lighting. All in all it was a cracker night for a great cause with some killer entertainment and big laugh out loud moments. My only thought was maybe it was a missed opportunity, I would of loved to see Sandy do a rendition of Beer With Duncan - next time!
GERDETTE ROONEY’S WOMADIC WANDERS
G
erdette Rooney is an intrepid traveller of the nomadic kind, hence the title of her newly published book, Womadic Wanders. It’s a book that details Gerdette’s many adventures and tales of wanderlust from many different countries. These are not the usual countries that are generally criss-crossed by students during a gap year or by tourists wanting to experience different places and cultures whilst maintaining the standards they are used to back home. Rooney’s stories are from those places that many would not venture to alone. Not even in their wildest dreams. Countries like Iraq, during the time of Saddam Hussein or Libya under the rule of Gaddafi. Rooney is a trained radiographer was able to live and work in these countries. Working amongst the
people of each country has allowed for great insight into customs, ideologies and lifestyle choices that we privileged folk in the west might not agree with. Of the countries she has inhabited Rooney says that Africa is the country that stole her heart. She was there during the
time of apartheid, working in an empty hospital in Johannesburg. “There were separate staff rooms for black and white, separate entries into shops and you couldn’t even share a park bench. I found this out when I actually sat on a bench next to a member of staff who was also a person of colour and was quickly moved on by security. Soon after I moved to another hospital outside Johannesburg, Baragwanath, in Soweto.” “You have to be quite fearless and trusting of those around you.” Rooney said explaining that she would often hitchhike too and said that her favourite taxis were those in Africa where she would be the only white person squeezed in with a whole family and their chickens. Rooney’s philosophy on travel is what
the book is all about. As she has said it is a chance for readers to know what travel was like back when the world was normal. Some valuable lessons to be learned include; leaving your heart open to trust and to the kindness of strangers, exploring the wilderness of the planet by veering off the beaten track, seeing what this planet is about, and experiencing the world, it’s wonders and it’s peoples from a different perspective. We could all use a little exuberance right now. (RLD) Rooney’s book can be purchased at: GleeBooks, 49 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe. Better Read Than Dead, 265 King Street, Newtown. Or directly from the author at gerdette28@gmail.com INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
21
IndieARTS
RPM RECORDS
(L-R) Lizzie French, Stuart Coupe & Steve Wernick
BY JAMIE APPS peaking with the Inner West Independent the owners of Sydney’s preeminent record store, RPM Records, Steve Wernick and Lizzie French regaled us with the story of the business. Founded in 2015 RPM Records started as a dream of “one day opening a record store” for the couple. Then with the help of music promoter Kevin Jacobson that dream became a reality on the six-month anniversary of Steve and Lizzie dating. “Our first date was actually in a record shop and we quickly bonded over our shared love of music. Then when Kevin Jacobson asked us to sell his memorabilia collection we knew that was the moment we had to take the opportunity to combine our vinyl and his memorabilia together in a store,” recalled Steve. Whilst the old cliche is to never work with loved ones, for Steve and Lizzie RPM Records only intensified their love and bond because now they had “created our dream environment” together. Since that day the store, and their friendships with their customers, have blossomed to make RPM Records one of the most preeminent record and memorabilia shops for any discerning music lover/collector. So much so that the business is now needing to expand by opening a second store, which is conveniently right around the corner from the original location. “We’ve completely run out of room because we have so much vinyl and
S
memorabilia that we’ve had to open a new store,” explained Lizzie. “This new store is going to have a greater emphasis on posters and clearance items, which will enable us to streamline the main shop into being more about the physical music items such as vinyl, CDs and cassettes etc.” RPM Records has been able to grow so much because of their “All Killer, No Filler” mantra. “If it’s not a great condition record, then it simply doesn’t get into the shop” said Steve. To which Lizzie was quick to add, “We’re very selective about what we sell but we do have a great selection for everybody. I’d say we’re the broadest as far as a generalist store covering all of the different genres. We also sell new and old, whereas a lot of shops typically focus on one or the other.” Steve and Lizzie also made it a point for their store to be meticulously catalogued and organised so that it is quick and easy for them to help customers fulfil their wish lists. “We often get complimented about how immaculately organised the shop is,” said Lizzie. “Everything in our shop is arranged by genre and then by alphabetical order of the artists. So all you’ve got to do is come in and tell us what your after and we can guide you right to it. That was one of the main things that we took away from other record shops that we visited, we wanted ours to be very well organised.” RPM Records is open 7 days per week and is located at 113 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville.
RESTLESS LEG BY JAMIE APPS or the first time since late 2019 the Inner West’s own Restless Leg will once again step foot onto a stage to perform live. With a sound fusing the likes of The Pixies, The Go Betweens and Velvet Underground this four piece describe their music as jangly, indie-pop. Speaking to the Inner West Independent Ben Chamie spoke about the difficulty of the past year and the excitement that now follows as they prepare to make a triumphant return. During the lockdown period Restless Leg continued to chip away at a new record, which has a target release towards the end of May. Obviously though the lockdowns and restrictions placed a few extra hurdles on the path but thus far they have successfully, and safely, cleared all of those. “When the lockdown happened it was unclear if we could go into the studio or not,” recalled Chamie. So instead they chose to wait and complete the recording portion “just after the lockdown lifted at the end of July.” By taking this approach the group was able to focus on “the creative side of things” by writing more songs to complete the track list. Overall Chamie described the lockdown period as a “double edged
F
sword” because it allowed them to focus on creative its but it also meant that gigs disappeared all together. “As far as gigs go it has been terrible... they are normally the way that we help fund the records too.” With this upcoming live show at the Petersham Bowling Club being the band’s first since 2019 Chamie says he will likely experience something he typically wouldn’t, “normally I don’t get nervous but we haven’t played for ages so there will be some nerves this time.” As Inner West locals Chamie and Restless Leg know first hand the importance of venues such as the Petersham Bowling Club for the local community. “The Petersham Bowlo is relatively accessible for the little bands like us which is so important because there’s not many of them. I don’t know what we would be without them.. they are absolutely essential.” Lastly, there is one more element adding to the level of excitement with this show according Chamie, “they’ve upgraded their PA during the lockdown so I’m really looking forward to hearing and experiencing those improvements.” Feb 12. Petersham Bowling Club, 77 Brighton St, Petersham. $8.35+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.thepbc.org.au
PSYCHEDELIC PORN CRUMPETS - SHYGA! THE SUNLIGHT MOUND
P
erth’s Psychedelic Porn Crumpets are set to return with their fourth album on February 5, and it’s obvious that the enforced time at home has been incredibly productive. This new record, SHYGA! The Sunlight Mound, is both a continuation of their intense well known sound but also an evolution of that sound into something more. Throughout the record the group keep their fun, inviting soundscapes but fuse that with deeper, more thoughtful and introspective melodies. 22
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
Sonically the Psychedelic Porn Crumpets have taken elements from The Beatles, Kings Of Leon and Nirvana to create something uniquely their own. This record is dynamic and enjoyable, you’ll find yourself contemplating the meaning of this record while subconsciously bopping away. Certainly worth checking out it if you love funky, fun rock records. (JA) WWW1/2
IndieARTS
TEENAGE KICKS
T
he independent Aussie LGBTQI flick Teenage Kicks performed well in several film festivals in 2016 and was picked up to screen on streaming services in the US. The film was written and directed by Craig Boreham who had mainly been making queer short films for the festival circuit and is now destined to be a popular viewing choice on Netflix for the gay community. “Teenage Kicks is about a young guy who is on the verge of adulthood, who had this tragic loss in the death of his brother and who at the same time connected to
his developing sexuality. It deals with his coming to terms with grief, his place in his family’s world, and his relationships with his friends. It’s very much a character piece. It really hangs on the shoulders of the young actor Miles Szanto who gave a sterling performance as the troubled Milkos Varga.” The idea for this film came about from Boreham’s personal experiences and from stories which he had heard from teenagers who were homeless because of their queerness. For his excellent work on the film, Boreham received an Audience Award nomination in the Best Narrative Feature
HIGH GROUND
T
he major American studios are continually holding back their blockbusters owing to the ongoing pandemic, but movie-goers have the opportunity to attend screenings of smaller films that would normally go unnoticed. High Ground is an Australian historical drama set in 1919 which highlights white man’s horrific treatment of Aboriginals and their ability to be unscathed by a lawless judicial system. An Aboriginal’s killing of a cow on a cattle station is the catalyst to an unjustifiable murderous rampage of an Aboriginal family by police in the extremely disturbing opening sequence, which ultimately demonstrates the hypocrisy of white man’s law. Is it just that police can murder a group of
OCCUPATION: RAINFALL
G
et ready to be blown away by the most expensive and ambitious independent Aussie science fiction film ever produced! A sequel to 2018’s Occupation, the story takes place two years into an intergalactic invasion of planet Earth. Survivors in Sydney retaliate by fighting a ground war. The aliens battle to take over the planet, so the race is on to save humanity. It’s spot the Aussie star in this incredibly loud and fast-paced action film which surprisingly rivals any cinematic science fiction offering from Hollywood. Dan Ewing (Home
and Away) leads the Australian cast, American actor Ken Jeong providing comical relief from the non-stop action and deafening warfare. Adversely, the dialogue at times was incomprehensible owing to the explosive sound effects during the battle sequences, also compounded by the muffled voices of the ‘maskwearing’ alien characters. Few science-fiction films have been produced in Australia, but this is one that enthusiasts of this genre should not miss out on. For audiences who lose track of what’s happening in the story just sit back and enjoy as it’s a feast for the eyes and ears with impressive CGI, alien creatures, and sets. This is quintessentially a film that must be watched on the big screen for maximum enjoyment and it was announced in the final moments of the film that another sequel is on its way. (MMo) WWW
category at the Sydney Film Festival in 2016 and an Australian Director’s Guild Award nomination for best direction in a feature film in 2017. Young actor Miles Szanto who portrayed the 17-year-old teenager Milkos justifiably won the best actor award at the Iris Prize Festival in 2017.
Boreham explained that audiences should connect to the anguish that Milkos is experiencing in his life, as most queer people have experienced some turmoil in their teenage years. “What really resonated for audiences was the relationship between the two best friends. That best friend you have in high school you may have lost contact with now, but that friendship was everything then.” When asked what message the film sends out to audiences Boreham paused momentarily. “At the heart of it, I was always thinking about the idea that the scars of your youth create who you become, surviving that turmoil makes you who you are.” Teenage Kicks has several extremely graphic gay sex scenes, but a broad audience has responded to it. “My intention was for this film to appeal to gay audiences but I’m finding that mothers of teenage sons really seem to love it - it really resonates for them,” laughed Boreham.
Aborigines in cold blood with no punitive recourse and yet an Aboriginal can suffer the full extent of the law for murdering one white woman? “You want us to respect your law? Give us justice!” exclaims an Aboriginal. Highlights of the film include mesmerising cinematography of picturesque sunburnt locations in Arnhem Land, Northern Territory, and an ensemble cast that includes Simon Baker, Jack Thompson, and Ryan Corr. This is a thought-provoking action revenge thriller that will leave thinking audiences questioning, has the law actually changed much over the years to bring equality to the Aboriginal communities? (MMo) WWW
MUSIC
N
ine-time Grammy-nominated singer/ songwriter Sia made her directorial debut in this musical drama and stated that her film “will rip your heart out and put it back together again.” Kate Hudson plays the role of a reformed alcoholic Zu who becomes the sole guardian of her half-sister Music (Maddie Ziegler), a non-verbal woman on the autism spectrum. The film looks at Zu’s hardships as she learns to be her sister’s caregiver and in the process explores other dark
issues including death, domestic violence, alcoholism, drugs, and HIV. The character Music is a beacon of light amongst all the darkness, with Maddie Ziegler delivering a realistic and emotionally charged performance. Sia wrote 10 songs especially for the film which complement the enchanting musical sequences. Beautiful and inspiring this film about finding your voice and creating family has heart and soul and is a joy to watch. (MMo) WWW1/2 INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
23
Drag King: Gabriel Angel
Mardi Gras will
FESTIVAL 19 February – 7 March for more information visit mardigras.org.au
24
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT FEBRUARY 2021
in 2021