Inner West residents call for justice for Assange
Councillors clash over skate plaza
Leichhardt’ Amanda Easton speaks about her album, Wallflower
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YOUR FREE INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER
DECEMBER, 2020
EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS
Five senses of Christmas in the Inner West
BY RIDA BABAR & ALLISON HORE he festive season for many will be a welcome distraction from the troubled year that was 2020. Here’s how you can put bushfires, a pandemic and economic recession behind you and experience five senses of festive sensations in the Inner West this Christmas.
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The Village Church in Annandale is also hosting a carolling event on December 20, which will be held live. There will be live music and a barbeque dinner available. Locals have described the upcoming carolling events as “a huge relief from the awfulness of the past year.”
HEAR
TASTE & SMELL
What would Christmas be without carolling? With COVID-19 public health orders prohibiting group singing, questions hung over whether carolling events would be able to go ahead this year. Fortunately those restrictions have been lifted in time for everyone to belt out a few verses of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas” at the local pub. Unfortunately some community events, like the popular Carols on Norton event in Leichhardt, will not be able to go ahead this year. But for those hoping to share some festive cheer other events will be going ahead. Marrickville can enjoy a spot of carolling at Marrickville Road Church on Christmas Eve. Attendees will be treated to the smooth tunes of a jazz band and the sound of sizzling sausages on a barbecue. There will also be a jumping castle for kids. For those still not ready to brave the crowds, there are also online events for events running. Chapel Hill in Rozelle is hosting a livestream of Christmas carols on December 20 on Facebook live, a great option for those who would like to celebrate the festivities from home.
For those hoping to avoid the heat of the kitchen this Christmas season, but still experience those festive tastes and smells, the Inner West has a range of excellent local food options available. Orange Grove Market in Leichhardt has a number of stalls every Saturday, many of which have handcrafted gifts and tasty festive foods. The markets are a great way to find something special for someone special and support local artisans after the huge blow that was COVID-19. Some stalls are even giving back to the community by raising money for charities such as Hope For Ollie, a charity which provides funding into research into finding a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Another Saturday market where you can experience festive tastes this holiday season is the Rozelle markets. We all know hitting the grocery stores around Christmas can get quite stressful. So to avoid the trolley wars in the supermarket aisles, there are a number of Christmas catering options available in the Inner West suited to all needs. Continued on page 3
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IndieNEWS EXPERIENCE CHRISTMAS
(Continued from the cover)
IndieARTS:
THE SHAPE OF THINGS “Four of most exciting and intelligent actors working in this country” take to the stage in Marrickvillen (See p. 19)
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, Rida Babar, Kate Rafferty, Daniel Lo Surdo, Maddy Constantine, Scott Carroll, Rachel Clark, Jack Mahony, Georgia Robinson, Briannah Devlin, Eva Baxter, Olivia Day, Mark Morellini, Soofia Tariq, Jamie Apps, Irina Dunn, Erika Echternach Advertising Managers: Mal Moody 0404 042 615 Dan Kinsela 0400 319 934 Advertising: sales@altmedia.net.au Cover Photo: Marketplace Leichhardt Santa Photography, photography team from Regprom 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
Carols at the Village Church in Annandale in 2019. Photo: Supplied
For those looking for a luxury treat, One Penny Red is a Summer Hill restaurant offering exquisite Christmas Hampers for $390. These hampers include an entire Christmas day meal ready-made and prepared with love, taking away the stress of making it yourself. For a variety, Foot St is offering a similar package with more choices of food, delivered hot and fresh, straight to your door. Another creative and fun festive food offer are the Christmas Baking Boxes by Hot Potato in Rozelle, for $89. These include four family friendly treats that you can create in the comfort of your own home.
SEE
Twinkling Christmas light displays around the community are certainly bringing some much needed beauty to what has been an ugly year overall. And when it comes to Christmas lights, the Inner West doesn’t disappoint. Almost every house in Second Street in Ashbury gets into the Christmas spirit by putting up lights making it a must see spot for anyone light-spotting in the Inner West. Some houses along the street are raising money for HOPE Charitable Foundation, a group whose mission is to support those in need, regardless of their race, gender, politics or religious beliefs through various projects. Lilyfield Road in Rozelle have also come
together to create some festive joy. 37 Lilyfield Road has been putting up Christmas displays for 15 years. This year their display includes not just lights but also oversize statues, lazers and projections, as well as window displays over three levels. The display can even be seen while travelling along the City West Link. But a house in nearby Concord surely takes the crown for light-spotting in the Inner West.
[Christmas is] a huge relief from the awfulness of the past year Hailed as one of Sydney’s best Christmas houses, the family living at 191 Burwood Road in Concord has again put up an incredible display for the community to enjoy. 191 Burwood Road has been putting up Christmas lights for over 20 years. This year their display is made up of over 100,000 LED lights synchronised to five different Christmas tunes.
FEEL
It’s been a tough year for everyone, but especially so for the more vulnerable members of our community. Here are a few local organisations supporting at-risk young people in the Inner West so you can give back and feel good this Christmas. One organisation calling for community support this Christmas is Stretch-A-
Family, which has provided therapeutic foster care for children unable to stay with their own family, as well as support for foster carers, since 1977. This Christmas they are hoping to raise $7,000 to thank the foster carers they work with and “give quality gifts to both them and the children in their care.” Father Chris Riley’s Youth off the Streets is also running a Christmas Appeal this year. With the COVID-19 pandemic plunging more young people and their families into unemployment and poverty, the crisis accommodation Youth off the Streets runs in Marrickville is more important than ever. An in-kind donation to the organisation will help bring a bit of cheer to vulnerable youth this festive season. For a thoughtful gift this Christmas, look no further than the “Gift of Empowerment” cards Leichhardt based organisation, The Girls Refuge, have put out this year. All profits from the colourful gift cards will go towards the various programs run by the organisation which is devoted to care, education, recovery and early intervention for women and girls at-risk. Of course, there are many many more organisations doing great things for vulnerable people in the Inner West you can get behind this festive season. From the team at the Inner West Independent, we hope you have a wonderful Christmas and wish you the best for the new year. May it be exponentially better than this one. INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
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IndieNEWS
Gender imbalance on GM panel I BY KATE RAFFERTY nner West Councillors have expressed concern about a lack of gender representation on the next General Manager recruitment panel, voted through in a council meeting on Tuesday 10 November. “We have a majority of female councillors in council, eight versus seven, yet we couldn’t get a majority of councillors to vote for a female panel member,” said Independent Councillor John Stamolis. “It’s appalling.” The recruitment panel was passed with three male councillors and only one female on-board.
We have a clear policy on gender, yet we don’t seem to be demonstrating it Councillors on the panel include Mayor Darcy Byrne, Deputy Mayor Victor Macri, Greens Councillor Colin Hesse and Liberal Councillor Vittoria Raciti. Of the two female councillors put forward, Greens Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz and Councillor Vittoria Raciti, neither received a majority vote.
Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz (in green, second from right) attends an International Womens’ Day rally in Sydney. Photo: Twitter/Mehreen Faruqi
Councillor Raciti was voted through only on the basis of a casting vote used by chairperson and Mayor Darcy Byrne. Councillor Stamolis said the meeting’s resolution raises concerns about how the Inner West Council puts policy into practice. “We have a clear policy on gender, yet we don’t seem to be demonstrating it,” he said. The panel will decide on the next chief executive officer for the Inner West Council, following the departure of
former Infrastructure Australia boss Michael Deegan in October.
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE
In what’s been a volatile period for the Inner West Council, councillors hope the recruitment of an appropriate CEO will bring some stability. “This will be our fourth General Manager for the Inner West Council, and it would be good that in recruiting a new general manager we have a balance of men and women,” says
Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz. “It’s an indicator that men and women are equally welcome at this organisation” she said. Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz says gender representation on any recruitment panel is good practice. But, Greens Councillor Colin Hesse, who was voted onto the panel over Councillor Da Cruz says the Greens and the Inner West Council have already shown a commitment to the issue. “This is the second selection panel for General Manager for the Inner West Council. “The previous nominee put forward by the Greens was a women, it just so happens that the Greens chose to nominate me this time round.” Yet Councillor Stamolis says the issue of equal representation affects all levels of government in serious ways and must be addressed promptly. “I think it was so obvious this time that you noticed it straight away. “It can’t be ignored, that’s why I’m pointing it out. If things continue on this way I think I and our community would be concerned for our council’s gender priorities” he said.
COMMUNITY WIN
Thank you to everyone who backed our campaign to bring electric buses to the inner west. Your support, petition signatures and letters have helped to secure 30 new buses. These buses are almost 70% cheaper to refuel than conventional diesel buses, produce less emissions (even when powered by the grid) and they can run on 100% renewable energy. Electric buses will help our community to reduce emissions and protect the planet.
Authorised by Jamie Parker MP and funded using parliamentary entitlements.
Meet your new clean, green electric buses.
Contact Jamie Parker MP 112a Glebe Point Road, Glebe NSW - Ph: 9660 7586 - www.jamieparker.org.au ElectricINDEPENDENT Bus Ad.indd 1 DECEMBER 2020 INNER WEST 4 IWIndependent
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INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
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IndieNEWS
Leichhardt bus stop shelters 11,500 Australian men and women are diagnosed with melanoma each year, often from sun exposure. Commuters waiting a long time at unsheltered stops are also at risk of heat stroke, exhaustion and dehydration.
OLDER COMMUTERS AT RISK
Over 16 percent of Leichhardt’s population is over the age of 65 and those spending time outside during summer need to take extra precautions to protect their skin from melanoma. Local residents have voiced their concern about the amount of shelter. Susan Hawkeswood is over 60 and catches the bus nearly every day, she would like to see a shelter at every stop.
A number of bus stops in Leichardt lack shade: Photo; Supplied
BY JACK MAHONY eichhardt commuters are being left to contend with the elements thanks to a lack of bus stop shelters in the area.
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In 2019, during a typical week there were close to 60,000 bus trips to and from or within Leichhardt from well over 50 bus stops. Yet, currently there are only 18 bus stops with shelters and 23 with seats leaving travellers exposed to the elements.
The Inner West Council is responsible for the construction of the bus shelters, a spokesperson for the council said that council provides shelters at, “some prioritised highlyutilised locations.”
I think the council should definitely put more shade around the bus stops
The need for bus stops shelters is only reviewed following requests by the public or on the occasion that Transport NSW proposes the relocation of a bus stop.
“It’s alright for young people, but once you’re getting on in life to be standing for 15-20 minutes and not being able to sit down, it’s quite arduous,” she told the Inner West Independent. “As you can see from the one, we’re
Summer is expected to be hotter than average, so cover is crucial.
sitting near, the shelter and the bus stop are quite a long way apart … you’ve got to be watching out, jump up flag the bus run up, that’s very awkward” Laura McFarlane catches the buses two to three times a day in Leichhardt, she is also concerned about the lack of shade cover entering the hotter months. She said, “not having enough shade around bus stops will prevent any type of safe spot.” “I think the council should definitely put more shade around the bus stops,” she said. Bus stops with high usage are prioritised when constructing shelters however sometimes seats and shelters aren’t provided. Footpath width, shop awnings, visual impacts for drivers and visual obstructions for shopfronts were reasons listed by the Inner West Council. A new bus shelter costs from $25,000$30,000 to build, while a seat costs approximately $7,000. Despite the high price tag, shade is not able to be provided all throughout the day due to the constraints of the footpaths and the direction the shelters must face. Moving into summer, council said the NSW health website provides hot weather information and advice for residents.
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IndieNEWS
Government slashes public housing BY RIDA BABAR he government has announced that public land in Glebe and Eveleigh will soon be opened up for private development rather than for social and affordable housing. This comes as a shock while communities recover from the economic hardships caused by COVID-19.
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There will be a lot of distress caused to very vulnerable people The Greens Party MP’s Jenny Leong and Jamie Parker have both opposed private development on the public housing sites. “Our communities recognise there is a deepening housing crisis across Sydney, and would welcome the redevelopment of these sites to increase public housing and the availability of homes that people can afford,” said Ms. Leong. “As the impact of the pandemic is growing daily, we need to ask why the NSW Liberal National government is still selling us all short by planning to privatise 70 percent of these redevelopments which are on valuable public land.”
She added, should the development proceed, it is “crucial” at least 10 percent of social and affordable housing on site is Aboriginal owned and operated. Jamie Parker, member for Balmain, agreed with Ms. Leong’s concern. He said, “there is currently 100% public housing across these sites and there can be no justification for reducing that share to just 30%. “These types of projects have a track record of delivering less social housing accommodation by demolishing multi bedroom apartments and replacing them with studios.”
FROM PUBLIC TO PRIVATE
While the initial government planning proposal highlights that no construction will commence until 2022 at the earliest, questions have been raised as to whether redevelopment in these areas should be considered at all in light of financial hardships as a result of the pandemic. It has also been highlighted that residents will be given at least a six month relocation notice. The 70 percent cut to public housing in the Glebe section is a major change,
Concept art for the Franklyn Street social housing estate renewal. Photo: NSW Government
and one which is facing opposition by a number of groups and individuals. “The bulk of the new homes will go to private owners,” said community group Hands Off Glebe. “By selling most of the property into private hands, the Berejiklian Government fails in its duty to care for the needy.” An individual who will be impacted by the development, Emily Bullock, told Hands Off Glebe as a resident of the complex under threat, she knows “there will be a lot of distress caused to very vulnerable
people” by the government’s approach. “Some tenants have lived in this complex since it was built. They know Glebe and love it,” Ms. Bullock said. “In previous moves like this in Cowper Street, Glebe and Millers Point people have committed suicide, been hospitalised and the stress levels have risen remarkably.” There are ongoing meetings with tenants and planning committees who are accepting feedback to make the developments as beneficial for all involved as possible.
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retirement village might not be for everyone, however those who choose to make the move do agree that they should have done it sooner. For some it is the opportunity to meet new people and find companionship, while for others it’s about enjoying the freedom from maintaining a large house and garden. For Uniting resident Leoni, that was one of the appeals of making the move to a village. “Having everything looked after frees up time to do the things you really want to do and isn’t that what retirement is about,” said Leoni. Although COVID-19 restrictions saw social gatherings paused early in the year, residents in villages are finding unique ways to connect, be it via a socially distanced chat through their neighbour’s front door or a resident meeting held via the resident’s balconies. Uniting Independent Living resident Joan shared “that’s what I like about it I moved in and everything is taken care of. I’ve got my independence, but I’m not living in some isolated house on my own, and I must say I’m surrounded by very nice people.”
For some the perception of village life may be that they’ll be living in each other’s pockets. However, Maxine, a Uniting Independent Living resident says it’s not the case. “It’s the best of both worlds - you have your own home which you love and furnish your way, and you have all the facilities, but you’re free to make any social arrangements you want. I mean, what could be better,” reflected Maxine. The best way to decide if a move to a village is right for you is to book a tour of a village and chat to some of the residents about their experience. To explore a Uniting village near you call the friendly team at Uniting on 1800 864 846 or visit www.uniting.org/independent-living. INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
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IndieNEWS
Rozelle traffic mayhem Traffic in Sydney. Photo: Wikimedia
Blasting threatens Leichhardt locals BY DANIEL LO SURDO he WestConnex project’s jointventure contractor has applied for permission to blast under Leichhardt’s residential streets. The Acciona Samsung Bouygues joint venture (ASBJV) submitted the application to break rock for excavation on a segment of Leichhardt’s Norton and MacKenzie Streets last month after abandoning the procedure in Annandale earlier in the year.
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It threatens serious damage to properties
BY RIDA BABAR Recent data from NSW Road Safety’s shows over 1,500 pedestrians are hit ommunity concerns about on NSW roads each year. pedestrian safety and traffic congestion in Rozelle are on Speaking on the turn into Nelson St the rise. from Darling St, the local resident said “cars, vans and trucks speed down the An advocate for the cause, a street. Children would not be able to Rozelle local who wished to remain see cars coming until they are almost anonymous, contacted council multiple out in front of it. As a driver, you times detailing her concerns but only cannot see around an angle parked received automated responses. SUV or truck. It’s a risk every time The local’s email outlined a number pulling out - no room for error.” of issues including the lack of clear “It is only a matter of time before division between pedestrian crossings someone is hit.” and plain road, the absence of parking inspectors on weekends, and increased traffic during school SAFETY EDUCATION hours, calling the road conditions With the population growing in the “unbearable and dangerous.” Inner West, an increased number of both pedestrians and drivers are The resident explained that the Inner utilising local roads. West Council had failed to reconvene with her on the issue after over a Council say while they are not required month of her initial raise of concerns. to educate children on the importance of road safety, they have a funding When contacted by the Inner West partnership with Transport for NSW Independent, the council said, “traffic and can assist to queries are prioritised minimise road risk and investigated by It is only a matter of time outside schools Council staff.” before someone is hit through behavioural “In some cases, and traffic there may be engineering initiatives. delays in investigating as there may One such initiative is a safety around be additional traffic and parking data schools program designed to promote required to be collected and analysed.” safe practices for parents in school The council said they have taken zones. The focus of the campaign a number of measures to improve is to inform parents of the risks pedestrian safety in Rozelle. associated with illegal parking in “Council has installed some new school zones. footpath stencils with the messaging Schools are invited to partner with ‘Look out before you step out’ in Inner West Council by using a range of Rozelle as part of Councils pedestrian resources to help promote the safety of safety education program, to remind children around schools. For example, pedestrians to make safe decisions signage on school fences, newsletter when crossing the road.” inserts and postcards for parents. They also stated that the Rozelle The council has yet to make major North and Balmain Local Area Traffic road changes to address the specific Management (LATM) studies are concerns raised by Rozelle locals. currently in consideration.
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The proposition has grown concerns of Inner West residents who continue to face ground-borne noise and vibrations along the planned WestConnex route. Member for Balmain, Jamie Parker, believes blasting will endanger wellbeing in Leichhardt. “It threatens serious damage to properties over and above the damage that is already being caused by conventional tunnelling in our local area,” Mr. Parker said. But the WestConnex project team say potential blasting will be completely safe for residents and poses no threats
“Throughout the prior stages of the project residents who have suffered damage at the time of tunnelling have had their claims knocked back,” Ms. Aaron said. The procedure will involve pre-drilling a series of holes in the underground rock before detonating those holes with explosives to separate the rock into manageable pieces for removal. The section of motorway subject to blasting will be 40 to 50 metres below houses and the Sydney Secondary College Leichhardt Campus.
COMMUNITY CONCERNS
ASBJV’s application to the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment comes after arrangements to blast in Annandale were abandoned earlier this year. Three small-scale blasts trialled beneath Reserve Street in July showed blasting to be impractical. Rockbreakers and roadheaders were used to continue digging the tunnel. “It has not been fully explained why the conditions under Leichhardt are different from those under Annandale,” said Ms. Aaron. “Communities in the Inner West have long been collateral damage in
Opposition to tunnelling in Leichardt. Photo: Leichardt Against WestConnex FB Page
for properties. They said the method will actually reduce noise and vibration impacts. “Controlled blasting is a common tunnel excavation method that has been safely used on other rail and road tunnel projects in Sydney,” a WestConnex spokesperson said. Blasting, if required, will begin in February 2021 when developers expect to encounter harder rock between the 36th Battalion Park and the Pioneers Memorial Park. Leichhardt Against WestConnex CoConvenor Jennifer Aaron believes landowners are at most risk from the excavation process.
the quest to push through this illconceived project.” The WestConnex project team has worked to create the Controlled Blast Management Plan should blasting be necessary in the construction’s future. As part of the plan, every blast will be overseen by an industry expert that’s been included in similar operations over the last three decades. A final decision on the blasting scheduled for next month. Potential blasting in Leichhardt would occur between 7:00am and 6:00pm on weekdays and 8:00am to 6:00pm on Saturdays, conducting two blasts per day, per tunnel.
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Green energy garden BY SOOFIA TARIQ new community project could see Inner West Residents previously unable to have solar panels, reap the rewards. The Haystacks Solar Garden will be Australia’s first large scale solar garden. It is a project between the Community Power Agency and community energy provider Pingala, who previously organised the solar panel project at Young Henrys Brewery in Newtown. Kristy Walters, community engagement manager at the Community Power Agency, said of the project, “it’s a fairly large scale and we’re really excited because it’s an innovative way, a new way, of doing community energy in Australia and people who were previously locked out of the solar revolution because they didn’t own their own home, or because they were renters, or lived in an apartment or have a shady roof, now they can be a part of it and join in the transition to clean energy.” The Inner West Council has supported the project and ‘is encouraging Inner West residents who are unable to install solar panels invest in the garden’.
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The garden will be located in the NSW Riverina region and will sell energy produced to the grid, the sale and credits of which will be divided among investors, following a cooperative ownership model. Ms. Walters says, “it kind of works like a community garden.” “You want to grow veggies in your own place but maybe there’s limited time and you don’t have a backyard, then you buy a plot in a community garden in your suburb. So the same way if you want the benefit of solar, but you can’t put solar on your rooftop, you can buy a solar plot in the solar garden and then you get the benefits there was it onto your electricity bill”. The project has been awarded a grant from the NSW Regional Community Energy Fund early this year.
SAVINGS EXPECTED Renewable energy is quickly becoming cheaper, with solar power being the most common and easiest source of renewable electricity. “The folks that become members of the solar garden Co-op will get savings
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Solar Panels in Sydney’s business precinct. Photo: Flickr/Rosie Nicolai
on their electricity bill every year for the last of the project, which is around 10 years,” said Kristy Walters.
Solar power is now the cheapest source of electricity in human history Newtown state MP Jenny Leong has also voiced her support for the project stating “Solar power is now the cheapest source of electricity in human history. It can bring down power prices, provide
reliable energy at peak times, and most importantly is one of the key solutions to climate change.” “Projects like community solar gardens mean that even renters can cut their energy bills by making the switch to solar - meaning that air conditioners can be powered with 100% renewable energy during the hot summer months”, said the Greens MP. The project is expecting to begin construction early next year and be producing electricity by August 2021.
IndieNEWS
Bridging the gap BY ALLISON HORE f repaired and reinstated the historic Glebe Island Bridge could create a crucial active transport link between the city and the Inner West, says member for Balmain, Jamie Parker. Once a world-first feat of engineering and a testament to ingenuity of industrial Sydney, the Glebe Island Bridge has been allowed to fall into disrepair over the quarter century since it has been decommissioned. Despite residents in both Pyrmont and the Inner West rallying to save the bridge, its future remains uncertain. But Mr. Parker thinks if the bridge were to be revitalised it could be a critical transport link between the CBD and the Inner West. “This bridge is all about the future of our city,” he said at a gathering at the bridge, commemorating a quarter century since its closure. “Are we going to have a city that focuses on pedestrians and cyclists, or are we going to have a city that focuses on the car?” The now-disused Allan truss road bridge connects Rozelle to Pyrmont and has a swing opening mechanism to allow vessels to pass through. It opened in 1903, making it among the first electrical powered opening bridges in the world. The bridge was decommissioned on the 3rd of December 1995 when its behemoth neighbour, the Anzac Bridge, opened. It stands as one of the last remaining swing bridges of its type in Australia, alongside its sister bridge the Pyrmont Bridge. If a “human scale” link across the Glebe Island Bridge were to be reinstated for pedestrians it would turn what is currently a 20 minute walk across the Anzac from Pyrmont to Rozelle into a leisurely 5 minute stroll. “This bridge provides that desperately important link between Rozelle in the Inner West and Pyrmont in the city. And that’s the reason why we need to support its retention,” said Mr. Parker.
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Despite its heritage significance, and official recognition, the bridge has been allowed to fall into disrepair. It has received little maintenance and has been left with the swing span in the open position for many years to allow for the mega yachts docked in Rozelle Bay to pass through. City of Sydney councillor and passionate advocate for Sydney’s heritage, Philip Thalis, called the government’s
Jamie Parker speaks at a gathering to mark 25 years since the closure of the Glebe Island Bridge. Photo: Allison Hore
treatment of the bridge “a policy of demolition by neglect” and said the government seems to have no interest in keeping the bridge. “Ever since the 1980s, with the Darling Harbour upgrades, this bridge was at risk. And then in 95 it was a close shave,” he said. The bridge was saved from the wrecking ball in 2013, when Glebe Island Bridge was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register.
This bridge is all about the future of our city The listing came after the heritage minister for the Liberal government at the time, Robyn Parker, broke party ranks to back the protection of the bridge. She noted that the Glebe Island Bridge and the Pyrmont Bridge were the last remaining structures of their kind in the state and “were considered great feats of engineering for the period”. Mr. Parker said he “doesn’t often give praise to Liberal party members” but says Ms. Parker’s commitment to saving the bridge is one of the key reasons it’s still around today. “She took that courageous decision, which politicians don’t usually like to do, to go against many in her party and say ‘we’re going to heritage list this bridge’,” he said.
But the 2013 report wasn’t the first time the bridge faced demolition. Mr. Parker says the bridge has almost met its demise a few times. “Ever since the 1980s, with the Darling Harbour upgrades, this bridge was at risk. And then in 95 it was a close shave,” he explained. Mr. Parker has been a long time advocate for the bridge which he believes is not only an important piece of history for the community, but also a key to the area’s future. “For me this has been a labour of love. Twenty years ago I was first elected to Leichhardt council, I served twelve years on that council and now ten years as a state MP,” he said. “It’s so important that we fight hard for this bridge. Not only for its 117 years of service to our community, but for what it holds for the future of our city.”
KEY TO THE PYRMONT STRATEGY
Despite a quarter century of neglect, the NSW government is also beginning to see the future potential in the historic bridge. In their final Pyrmont Peninsula Place strategy released in December, the NSW Government recognised Glebe Island bridge could be a crucial active transport link. The document provides a 20-year framework for development across the
Pyrmont peninsula and outlines five “big moves” for the area. One of the priorities the plan identified for the Pirrama precinct is to restore, reinstate or interpret the bridge to create an active transport link with the Bays west precinct. “Transport for NSW is currently investigating this potential future link and will consider the importance of an active transit link, the working harbour, other maritime uses and the heritage listing of the bridge and fenders,” the NSW Government said in the planning document. Mr. Parker says that while the bridge’s significant history has been preserved, there is still work to be done to ensure it is a part of the city’s future. And he thinks now is the time to make it happen. “We’re in a really fantastic moment in history because in moments in change and flux, we can often get winds,” he said. “We have ground the wreckers of this bridge into an impasse. They are not strong enough to demolish it, yet we haven’t managed to tip the balance in favour of reopening and enlivening this bridge.” “But now it’s an opportunity for us to create a pedestrian and cycleway link at least from Rozelle to Pyrmont into the city and its reverse.” INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
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IndieNEWS
Public “waking up to” Assange injustice
Limited options for Callan Park BY EVA BAXTER 020 may be the beginning of the end for Callan Park as a shabby hub for artists and mental health services. The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment (DPIE) released a draft Landscape Structure Plan (LSP) in July announcing Callan Park’s potential as a large urban parkland comparable to other iconic parks across Sydney. It found 29.4% of buildings in the park are intrusive, “initially a therapeutic landscape, the site requires remediation and better connections to feel like one unified park.” It concluded a diversity of uses has become increasingly important and mental health is no longer a top priority. Friends of Callan Park (FOCP), a volunteer group formed 22 years ago to keep the park in public hands, would see it maintained as a place where mild psychiatric services are provided such as Step Up, Step Down.
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A protest in support of Julian Assange. Photo: Supplied
BY BRIANNAH DEVLIN banner saying “Plibersek gags Julian Assange protestor”.” atherings and protests in the inner west and Sydney Wakeham did not see neither CBD are calling for justice for Plibersek, nor any staff. Julian Assange. “They did actually ask me if I am They continue after Matthew Drakeexpecting anybody, and I said no I Brockman was moved on by police am not.” while protesting outside Tanya Plibersek’s Redfern office on the LACK OF ACTION BY THE afternoon of the 17th of November. AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT “I think most people would be on On the 9th of November, the Senate board with getting politicians to recognised the plight of Assange’s bring an Australian home,” Drakesituation and declining health Brockham said. status. 24 Members of Parliament “If any major party politician and Senators are part of the cared to take a walk around their Parliamentary Friends of the Bring neighbourhoods and conduct a straw Julian Assange Group. poll of their constituents, I think “These people actually know the they’ll find the vast overwhelming criminality of, I mean, these people majority would support this idea are informed of what’s going on. of bringing this They’ve got the Australian citizen inside story. I think most people home.” They are in full would be on board with Later, Tony knowledge of Wakeham took getting politicians to bring this, and yet they Drake-Brockman’s continue to be an Australian homes place in bringing complicit with attention to this criminality,” Wakeham said. Assange’s cause outside Plibersek’s Redfern office. Every Friday for the last year, people have been gathering at Town Hall “So I’m hoping to bring a bit of attention and embarrassment to both in Sydney to raise awareness for Assange, and address the lack of Tanya Plibersek and the New South action the government is having in Wales Police Force,’ Wakeham told assisting a fellow Australian. the Inner West Independent Wakeham has attended every Wakeham set himself up outside gathering. the office to start protesting at 8:30 that morning. When he arrived, there On the one year anniversary of the were already Federal and New South gathering Assange’s father, John Wales police officers outside the Shipton, spoke about the urgency front of the office. of the need for the Australian government to grant assistance to “When I arrived, there was about six Assange. or seven police officers, and at least three police vehicles. I kind of walked Judgement on Assange’s case will past them, said g’day and put on my be handed down on the 4th of orange jumpsuit, put on my stars January 2021 by judge Vanessa and stripes gag and pulled out my Baraitser.
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INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
“LET SCA STAY”
Early this year, Sydney College of the Arts (SCA) vacated Kirkbride after 30 years. Arrietty Wachsmann, a first-year student in 2016 when news broke that the college was moving campus still has a sticker, ‘LET SCA STAY,’ a token from the protest that lasted until her graduation.
The site requires remediation and better connections to feel like one unified park “That campus meant so much to so many people and we just knew in the campus moving it would be downgraded and everything would be smaller, you’d be sharing facilities,” said Arrietty. Landowner NSW Health is looking after Kirkbride while it’s toured by interested parties. One tour breached the CPA, a representative of Doltone House, a for-profit
Callan Park. Photo: Supplied
The Callan Park (Special Provisions) Act 2002 (CPA) restricts use outside of health, community and education, along with rules for the aesthetics of spaces and buildings. The CPA is “restrictive if you’re a developer and you want to slice off a piece of Callan Park to develop,” said Roslyn Burge, historian on the executive of FOCP. Various agencies and government entities have responsibility for different aspects of care and control of the park and progress is typically hindered by their lack of shared vision. Only 62% of the park is included in the Greater Sydney Parklands, a new 50-year-vision for greater Sydney’s open space and parklands. The LSP does not have responsibility for the historic Kirkbride precinct.
venue business. FOCP questioned the government and were told expressions of interest were being accepted from anybody. Callan Park’s original building, the Garry Owen House, was repurposed into a facility for writers in 1991. Writing NSW is now at risk of closure due to funding cuts. Sarah Luke, author of Callan Park: Hospital for the Insane, was inspired to write her book after visiting the park for a course at Writing NSW. She would be disappointed to see the park’s interesting history erased. “Today, in the twenty-first century, I would suggest that citizens’ mental health is still being supported by the site but simply as a park open to all,” she said. Community feedback of the LSP is under consideration by the DPIE.
IndieNEWS
Greens split over heritage BY EVA BAXTER he Inner West Council narrowly decided against listing Marrickville’s Church of Christ as heritage last month, instead supporting its transformation into affordable housing. The Church of Christ is the last of a line of religious buildings that spanned 165 years in Marrickville, the rest have been demolished. The dwindling Church of Christ congregation operates Fresh Hope, a charity organisation and community housing provider. Save Marrickville, a group of residents taking action to ensure that the suburb is planned with community, environment and future in mind, supported the heritage listing in order to help preserve the history and character of that section of Marrickville town centre. “We also support genuine affordable accommodation but do not believe that communities should be forced to decide between affordable accommodation and heritage,” said Paul Mortimer from Save Marrickville. Councillor Tom Kiat, a young renter, split from his fellow Greens to oppose the heritage listing, but proposed that the heritage significance should be noted. He said possibilities of how
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the affordable housing project can incorporate the heritage elements of the existing structure should be discussed with Churches of Christ Property Trust and Nightingale Housing. Marrickville Library is an award-winning example of the incorporation of heritage into new developments. It has been put forward as an example of how the church to housing conversion could look. “It’s useful, it’s embraced by the community, serves the community’s needs and we’re not throwing out the old simply so that we can have the new, we’re integrating them together,” said Greens Councillor Louise Steer. However, Nightingale Housing has told the council it wasn’t possible to integrate the Church of Christ façade or any other part of the building into their design. Nightingale is building under boarding house legislation and the council is objecting to Nightingale’s plans to build outside of the legislation’s guidelines.
AFFORDABLE FUTURE
Philippa Clarke, a journalist and student, has benefited enormously from churchsponsored affordable housing in the
Marrickville church of Christ. Photo: Supplied
Inner West and wants it to be accessible to young people in the future. “I think it is exactly the kind of contribution churches can make to the community in the 21st century,” she said. “Having a church as my affordable housing landlord has meant that not only is the rent kept deliberately low for the location, but the church takes care to maintain the property and be
responsive to the residents’ requests for maintenance.” Clarke has been an active Greens member and has never spoken against a heritage listing before. “Councils are going to have to balance the two equally important priorities of affordability and heritage for many years to come and it’s never easy, but in relation to this particular proposal, I believe the right decision was made,” she said.
This crisis does not end with 2020 Let’s be honest. This year has been tough.
We began 2020 at the height of the worst bushfire season we have ever seen and were only just coming to grips with that devastation when COVID-19 turned our lives upside down. As we head into the final weeks of the year, it is so tempting to pull the door firmly closed on 2020 and never look back. But that would do us all a great disservice. We learned so much this year. We achieved so much together. We found out who we are as a community in times of crisis and uncertainty and now we must give ourselves a moment to reflect.
In our community where so many are renters, young people, artists, creatives, international students and non‑citizens and so much of our community is about vibrant and busy bars, cafes, cinemas, venues and retail outlets, things were and still are particularly terrible. @jennyleong.newtown
So many lost their income and now battle with insecure housing. It would have been so easy for people to focus only on their own struggles.
But that’s not what you did. You came together. You turned up for each other and that’s what we must continue to do as the impacts of this pandemic continue to unfold in the years to come. During the lockdown you volunteered with local services and mutual aid groups to get food and company to those who needed it the most. The artists and creatives amongst us stepped up to entertain us and provide us with hope. Our local businesses put their losses aside and gave free meals to frontline workers, international students and anyone else who needed it. We also stood strong and loud to show that even in the midst of a pandemic we must not shy away from racial justice ‑ we made it clear that Black Lives Matter. As a community, we wrapped our arms around each other.
many, the crises we face are not over. In the coming months and years, the climate emergency will cause more extreme weather, more rent debts will accrue with the return to inadequate Newstart payments and struggles for equality will continue.
That’s why we must continue to show kindness, to come together and demand our governments do better - that they invest to address the housing crisis, that they provide our most at-risk with a liveable income for all, that they act to avert the climate emergency. This is who we are as a community.
Let’s continue to stick together in 2021 and beyond. Jenny Leong MP Greens Member for Newtown
It is vital that we recognise that for @jennyleong
@jennyleong.newtown
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Inner West roads not two-wheel ready BY BRIANNAH DEVLIN ydney CBD cycleways constructions connecting the Inner West to Sydney CBD are just the tip of the iceberg for cycling connections in the Inner West. The construction of “two-way” cycleways on Saunders and Millers Street in Pyrmont will help link Sydney’s central business district to the Inner West. Construction began in October, and is estimated to take nine months to complete. A tweet from Clover Moore on the 5th of December said that Saunders Street will “form an important link between the Anzac Bridge and Pyrmont Bridge, which will make commuting to the city from the Inner West a lot safer and smoother.”
bicycle path between Lilyfield Road to The Crescent was also opened. But Mr. Moore explained that Lilyfield Road is not in an ideal state for cyclists.
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What we want is streets that are safe all the way around Deputy Mayor and Inner West Council’s Chair of the Local Traffic Committee Victor Marci agrees that safety will be a priority with the project, but doesn’t think it goes far enough.
“At present, most of the Lilyfield road is in a very rough state, a bouncy, rough track over this temporary filled cable trench down the length of it,” he said. “Just a bit where cyclists want to ride it’s about a meter wide, this sort of ribbon of uneven asphalt, but they’ve just temporarily put back in place and they keep on promising to do it properly.” Inner west roads are not cycle-ready. Photo: Supplied
“It’ll make it safer getting across the bridges and the Anzac Bridge, but what we want is streets that are safe all the way around.”
WESTCONNEX TAKES OUT CYCLING LINK
Cycleways in the Inner West have drastically changed as a result of WestConnex. One example of this is the destruction of the cycle and pedestrian bridge over Victoria Road near The
Crescent for the Rozelle Interchange. Cyclist and member of Bike Leichhardt, Robert Moore, said while an alternative has been provided, it is not sufficient. “They used to come in from Lilyfield Road. So they have they have given you access but it’s for a fairly steep hill, Gordon, straight off Lilyfield Road we’re not too happy about it puts people off I think going up that steep hill.” Along with the opening of the WestConnex and Rozelle Interchange, a pedestrian and
Mr. Moore thinks Gordon Street and James Craig Road are also impractical and hazardous for cyclists. Gordon Street has power cables present in the road as well as potholes, despite recommendations by WestConnex for Gordon Street to be utilised by cyclists to get to Victoria Road while Lilyfield is under construction. “Gordon Street is rather steep and narrow. And it’s chock a block full of cars in the morning peak hour. There’s not an ideal cycle route. But we’ve got little choices.” James Craig Road has power poles in the road that Moore said Bike Leichhardt has been requesting to be removed.
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IndieNEWS
Inner West councillors clash over skate park BY ALLISON HORE n a move which the Inner West mayor called a “betrayal of local children and young people” a group of councillors tabled a motion which would delay the construction of a skate park in Leichhardt Park. The motion to look for a “more suitable” location for the skate park was put forward by Councillors John Stamolis, Vittoria Raciti, Rochelle Porteous and Marghanita Da Cruz. If it passes through council, it will further delay the construction of a skate park which has been in council works for almost a decade. The pitch for a skate park in the area was first submitted to the state government in November 2011 as part of the Callan Park master plan. The design was completed in 2014, and the NSW government gave the council the go-ahead to submit a development application a year later. However, the NSW heritage council refused to support the application, pushing the council back to square one. Although another possible Callan Park location for the skate park was identified in 2017, the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) made it clear they would not support the construction of a skate park in Callan Park at all. 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. The council voted unanimously to investigate this spot. This led to the creation of a new draft Leichhardt Park Plan of Management in 2018 which referenced the skate park and preferred location for it. Initial public exhibition of the plan took place at the end of 2019, and a second round of public exhibition took place in September.
would lead to mature trees, which provide habitat for wildlife, being chipped and joked the chips “will be put to use as yet another flyer from Darcy Byrne.” “These wonderful mature trees, which make this area look tremendous, are marked for removal,” he said. “How can a Council, which tells its residents about tree protection, tree canopy and the urban heat island do such a thing.”
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CORPORATE OVER COMMUNITY
But Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne, who is a member of Labour, says Greens councillors and independents have put corporate interests before the needs of young people in the community by moving to look for a more suitable skate park location. “The Greens and Greens aligned Balmain Councillor John Stamolis have opposed every location for this skate park and they always will. They want the votes of local young people while failing to stand up for them when it counts,” Mayor Byrne said. Mayor Byrne claims Greens councillors have “succumbed to lobbying” from a
GREENS DIVIDED
A free skate workshop run by the Inner West council at a skate park in Summer Hill. Photo: Inner West Council
nearby high-end function center called Le Montage to kill the skate park, despite voting to approve it just two weeks ago. The function center has found itself in the center of some controversies including hosting a talk by right-wing agitator Milo Yiannaopolous and the wedding of disgraced Sydney businessman Salim Mehajer who is currently serving prison time for electoral fraud.
They want the votes of local young people while failing to stand up for them when it counts “The plans for the skate park have been public for many months and Le Montage was notified along with the whole community,” “After the approval of the skate park the owners have sought to lobby Councillors to kill the park off on the basis that they believe having a children’s facility in a public park nearby to their business will displease people attending functions there.”
MATURE TREES MARKED FOR REMOVAL
The motion to look for a more suitable location cited a number of concerns about the proposed spot. Concerns from La Montage, referenced in the motion, included the proximity of the park to the function center’s kitchen and delivery area, the hazard of a skate park so close to a licensed venue and the impact of removing trees on the venue’s ambience. La Montage also expressed concern about security and “problem events or behaviour” related to the skate park. Mr. Byrne said the concerns of the business should not be put before the needs of the community and the venue had nothing to be concerned about in terms of losing business as “parents bringing their kids to the new facility will in fact spend lots of money at the Le Montage cafe.” “We must uphold the principle that no private business has a right of veto over children’s infrastructure in public parks,” he said. But Independent councillor John Stamolis echoed the venue’s concerns about the removal of trees. He said the location of the skate park
Hitting back at accusations that the Greens are against a skatepark in any form, Councillor Rochelle Porteous took to Facebook to “mythbust” some of the “misconceptions” the community has had about the decadelong debacle. She said Greens councillors on the then-Leichhardt council had agreed on the original Callan Park location for the skatepark before the OEH denied it. She said she would like to see a skate park in the area but wants it to be one the whole community can get behind. “We want to have a Skate Park that is well supported by the local community and the best way to do that is to listen to the community and fairly and openly consult with everyone,” she said. But Greens Councillor Pauline Lockie, who was not a member of the pre-merge Leichhardt council, seemed unsure about why the move to delay the plan was being made. She said the loss of trees should be investigated, but she thought the plan of management was “ready to go” given the location was endorsed in 2018 and had gone through two rounds of public consultation. She said although suggestions have been floated to move the skate park to the other end of the park or to Rozelle Parklands, she thought cutting this location would likely see the skatepark plan die entirely. “I suspect axing this location is more likely to see the skate park not happen at all, as other locations in Leichhardt Park have been reviewed, and there’s already stiff competition for the limited space at Rozelle,” she said. With all the delays to the skate park, Ms. Lockie questioned whether it was something the community wanted at all. “Is a skate park wanted in this area at all? Should Council stop sinking your money into repeated attempts to find a suitable location?” INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
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IndieNEWS
NEWS IN BRIEF TASTE PERSIA BY RIDA BABAR hila Kitchen is a traditional Persian restaurant situated in the heart of Balmain, boasting delicious and affordable meals enriched with culture. Zoya Ashari and Saba Taghavi, coowners of Shila, say “our business aims to highlight the unique world of Persian cuisine and all it has to
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into far-off lands with a sailor named Sinbad.” “Australia has welcomed us to their land with open arms, and as immigrants, we wish to return that warmth by sharing the culinary treasures of our motherland.” It is clear that good food and honouring their culture are two things highly valued by Zoya and Saba, ensuring that customers will get a top tier Persian culinary experience every time.
One of ‘Everyday Candles’ products. Photo: Supplied
CHRISTMAS CANDLES BY RIDA BABAR veryday Candles is a local Concord business, where each candle is eco friendly, high quality, and proudly hand poured. With over 30 different fragrances available, these soy wax candles are the perfect Christmas gift. Candles are made with high quality essential oil and are free of any harsh chemicals, making them the perfect addition to brighten up a home, office, or any place in between.
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Business owner, Nicole Khoury, said “what started out as a hobby making candles for myself, then making them for family and friends, naturally
progressed into a small business from word of mouth referrals. The love and passion I put into making my candles is reflected through my customers feedback.” “We also offer a very unique service where we can personalise our candles with a special message or name for a birthday, thank you gift, or business logo.” Everyday Candles is currently running a Christmas special for all Inner West families, with individual candles at $35 each and bundles starting at $95 for 3. Candles can be purchased through Nicole’s Facebook page Everyday Candles and @everydaycandles on Instagram.
INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
BY GEORGIA ROBINSON rush and Sip is an up and coming business design which incorporates art sessions with drinking. The studio opened in Newtown in October 2017, with the owners drawing inspiration from their sister business in Brisbane, Brush and Barrel. During the 3-hour sessions, guests are taken step by step through an allocated painting and they are all welcome to bring their own drinks. Lila Truong, the owner of Brush and Sip says that “by coming to our studio, this gives people the opportunity to jump back into painting and being creative in a way that is fun, light-hearted and social.” Lila believes they have gained popularity because of this unique idea and the fact that “people are always looking for new ways to make memories with their loved ones and do something different to spend a day or night out.”
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offer. As such, our brand is all about exploration, adventure, and the introduction of new experiences, thus taking on the name of ‘Shila – a fictional bird in One Thousand and One Nights [a collection of Middle Eastern folk tales] who would venture
CREATIVE BUZZ
FESTIVE CRAFTING BY RIDA BABAR ith the time for last minute Christmas shopping and school holidays approaching, what better way to get children in the festive spirit than craft? The Inner West Council is running a Christmas Gift making class for kids in the coming week, with a class for 7-10 year olds on December 21, and 11-15 year olds on December 22. Not only is this an excellent way to keep kids busy, it is also an opportunity to encourage upcycling, with the workshop providing children the chance to make three gifts with reuse resources. With environmental awareness being vital for people of all ages to understand, now more than ever, this workshop teaches children new creative skills and “educates them on the creative potential of waste.” The class costs $75, which can be paid for with a NSW Creative Kids Voucher, and registration information is available on the council website.
Shila Kitchen in action. Photo: Supplied
Christmas gift making workshop. Photo: Inner West Council website
“Inspired by its many traditions and culinary practices, we aim to create a true home for Persian food in Australia. We invite others to delight in its homemade production, the social connections that bind its experience, and its historical roots.”
Although the business has found success in their fun and creative art sessions, they were hit quite hard by the COVID-19 pandemic and were forced to close during the March to July lockdown. Lila said that, “the COVID-19 pandemic has been extremely tough on our business.” “When we were lucky enough to reopen, we had to reduce our seating capacity significantly, so we have been unable to book as many customers as we previously did, or we would like.”
Brush n Sip. Photo: Supplied
IndieARTS REVIEW
MY BRILLIANT CAREER
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THE SHAPE OF THINGS
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n late December, the newly refurbished Flight Path Theatre in Marrickville will be hosting “a funny, sexy play” called The Shape Of Things by American playwright Neil LaBute, best known for his play In The Company Of Men. Les Solomon says this play is “a great acting challenge for talented and experienced actors,” and there are “strong links asking questions about art – what is real and what’s fake?” He adds, “This is a great American play
that has been favourably compared to The Crucible.” The play is “a masterful example of superb writing and characterisation” that “speak[s] powerfully about sexual politics,” a subject, Solomon notes, which is “on the tip of everyone’s tongue these days.” What were the challenges of directing this play? “Oh, it’s a bloody difficult piece, it has so many challenges, it poses questions for an audience and then leaves them to ponder the answers. The central female character seems like a vile villain, or is she? Making a strong tough woman into a character an audience can understand can be a challenge even in these more enlightened times.” Solomon loved working with his “incredible” cast. “The cast are incredible, four of the most exciting and intelligent actors working in this country, Every day they surprise me, frighten me with their quick and clever way of taking these characters to new and frightening places. It is a thrill to work with such talent.” Let’s hope that audience members find it’s a thrill to watch their handiwork. (ID) Dec 29-Jan 31. Flight Path Theatre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville. $35-$45+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.flightpaththeatre.org
irst penned by Stella Maria Sarah superbly directed by Kate Champion Miles Franklin (1879–1954) as a and manages to capture so much of novel to amuse her friends when she Sybilla’s life on a stage bereft of all but was a teenager, the ironically titled the most minimal props. My Brilliant Career now makes its If ever a work was a feminist call to appearance on the Belvoir stage in a arms, this is it. (ID) terrific adaptation by Kendall Feaver. Until Jan 31. Belvoir Theatre, 25 The story tells of young Sybilla Belvoir St, Surry Hills. $33-$83+b.f. Melvyn’s attempt to break out of a Tickets & Info: www.belvoir.com.au background of rural poverty, gender prejudice and the pitfalls of Nikki Shiels. Photo_Brett Boardman love and marriage. As a gritty young woman determined to make her own way in the world, she struggles to express the creative urge she feels to be a writer, all the while having to endure backbreaking work on her parents’ farm, then toiling as an indentured servant to pay off her father’s debt to his neighbour. With her extraordinary command of emotional expression, Nikki Shiels is so spell-binding as Sybilla that she tends to outshine the supporting cast. There were some odd choices in costuming, like the yoga tights on Sybilla’s mum and plastic sandals on her mum and sister. But these are only quibbles in a work that is
LEICHHARDT MARKETPLACE
BY JAMIE APPS his year the traditional Santa photos are going to be not so ‘traditional’ thanks to COVID-19 and the requisite
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precautions which are still in place. However, that doesn’t mean that we have to forgo the occasion and miss out on those memories. Leichhardt MarketPlace will still be hosting Santa photography sessions in the run up to the big day. Obviously these session will be a bit different this year with children and families unable to sit on Santa’s lap. Instead Santa will be perched up in his chair with guests seated 1.5 meters away for the photo sessions. The photo sessions will still take place with a beautifully designed Christmas wonderland backdrop and setting. And this year the pets are even welcome to partake in the family tradition, so bring along your furry friends to make it a photo never to forget. Pet photography is limited to dogs and cats including puppies and kittens. To ensure the safety of all, pets must be
held on a leash or in a carrier whilst moving through the centre. Leichhardt MarketPlace also ask that anybody wishing to have their photo taken with Santa this year arrive at least five minutes before your booked session. After each session the set and equipment will be sterilised to ensure everybody stays safe and healthy for the big festive days to come. Bookings are essential and there are a range of photo packages available, so everybody can get the appropriate quantity of snaps to share with family and friends. Photos are available as individual prints for $20.95 or in two packages (detailed below), or finally as digital prints on a USB drive.
REINDEER PACKAGE - $34 Two 6x8 photographs Four mini photographs Six Christmas tags Christmas Stocking Kit or Wooden Santa Frame
SANTA SURPRISE PACKAGE - $54 Three 6x8 photographs Eight mini photographs Eight Christmas tags Choice of one photo frame for a 6x8 photo ($24 value) Santa Surprise Gift
PHOTO SESSIONS ARE TAKING PLACE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 20 MONDAY, DECEMBER 21 THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24
For bookings and info: www.marketplaceleichhardt.com.au
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IndieARTS
AMANDA EASTON BY RIDA BABAR rising singer-songwriter from Leichardt, Amanda Easton, is soon to launch her new album, Wallflower. The album was written in isolation during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic from Amanda’s home studio, as she used the time to cultivate her music and virtually work with both local and international producers. Amanda describes the album as “theatrical, emotional, electronic pop,” using the months of live performing lost to write and produce her newest masterpiece. The singer’s new music is a reflection of the times, boasting an inward and nostalgic point of view. “Isolation at home meant more time to ponder the big stuff and many of these songs were born out of thinking about my childhood and how the traumas and good times in your life shape you. “I was a shy wallflower as a young teenager but becoming a professional performer has definitely brought me out of my shell.
“Even though this year has been a very unsettling year for all of us, with the arts particularly hard hit in terms of work, I feel like community spirit has been stronger than ever. “I’m turning to that for support in this project and have received a great reaction so far, with 25% of the campaign funded in the first few days,” Amanda revealed. Amanda Easton is an accomplished artist, having toured Australia, Europe, and Asia and having received Top 10 positions in the Australian Independent (AIR) music charts. She has also produced and hosted a live music television series named PopTarts, which aimed to promote and appreciate female singer-songwriters. To support the success of the album, Amanda has launched a Kickstarter Crowdfunding campaign, with pre orders of the album amongst other exciting and exclusive offers. The campaign will run until December 18. (RBa) Further information for Amanda’s campaign can be found at http://kck. st/33cXL3J
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PLANET
BY JAMIE APPS or Sydney’s rising stars Planet 2020 has been a mixed bag, much like it has for everyone. On one hand it meant that they were unable to tour Europe or even here at home following the release of their latest EP, Maybe Someday. However, now as we ease out of COVID-19 restrictions the circumstances have provided the opportunity for the band to perform at the “iconic” Factory Theatre in Marrickville. As we kicked off 2020 the year was looking to be a bumper year for Planet, having just signed with record label Dew Process and releasing their EP Maybe Someday. But then as we all know COVID-19 arrived and the entire landscape for artists changed. This meant that the band have been able to spend this time at home writing, preparing and gearing up for a huge return with a debut album once restrictions lift. “You only get one debut album, so you don’t want to just release it and not be able to take it on the road to give it the flogging that it deserves,” said guitarist Tom Peppitt. In the more immediate future though the
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band is excited to finally return to the live stage this weekend at The Factory Theatre in Marrickville. A venue which typically would have been outside of their reach had it not been for the circumstance brought on by COVID. “Obviously the bigger room is something that we only get to do due to the circumstances of this year, because otherwise the capacity would be too big,” explained Peppitt. “That is another bonus that has come out of this year, a lot of bands that we know are getting to play these cool venues that would otherwise be out of reach.” To be able to play The Factory Theatre is a a special moment for Peppitt, especially since he recently saw Cold Chisel play on the very stage he will be walking onto this Saturday. “It’s an iconic Sydney venue, so we’re really keen to play it... I think people should expect something big from us. We’ve upped the production a bit and are trying to take things to the next level with these shows.” Dec 19. The Factory Theatre, 105 Victoria Rd, Marrickville. $30+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.factorytheatre.com.au
ALEX KHAN - THE MARBLE JAR
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he Marble Jar, the sophomore album from Alex Khan, is a playful take on the world, life and what makes it worth living. With light-hearted vocals and soft instrumentals, The Marble Jar is like honey for the soul — a sweet dose of candy-coated realism. In particular, the single Lorelai is a 20
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touching love letter written for Khan’s dog and set to song. “How do you live in such an intimate communion with another being for so long and not have a single conversation in human language, yet so much is said and expressed,” Khan said of his relationship with his dog. While exploring deep emotions, Khan sprinkles in plenty of humour and clever lyrics to keep the album light overall. (EE) WWWW
JESSYE DESILVA - HOVER
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he latest EP release from Jessye DeSilva, Hover is a triumphant exploration of identity and what it means to simply be human. Blending whimsical indie folk tunes with strikingly vulnerable lyrics, DeSilva offers a refreshing take on the human condition that is so honest, it’s radical. Specifically, the tracks Drifter and Worry focus on anxiety patterns and the challenges that come with striving to remain emotionally present through mental health
hardships. Another single, Queen Of The Backyard, is a musically beautiful portrayal of the magic of youth and the feeling of invincibility that comes with being young and naive. Through their openness and authenticity, DeSilva can make listeners feel less alone in their struggles and create a sense of community. (EE) WWWW1/2
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Catch some of the most innovative, provocative and wildly entertaining short films the world has to offer
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INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020
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IndieARTS
NEWTOWN ART SEAT LAUNCHED
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he Newtown Art Seat, a cylindrical installation about 1.5m in diameter, was launched in the public square where Australia Street meets King Street in Newtown. Inscribed on the cylinder is a long poem by local poet Lynne Fairy called Postcards From Australia Street 2010-2016, which Lynne performed standing on the cylinder’s circular seat that provides as a poetic resting place for passersby. Here’s an extract: Lovers and dreamers / Crooks and schemers / Protesters, writers, acrobats / Ferrets, rabbits, dogs and cats / Dancers, prancers, street romancers / Ratbags, wild and wonderful / Butchers, Bakers, /
Even Candlestick makers/ All made their home in Australia Street Photographs by Lynne’s husband Leigh Howlett also adorn the Art Seat. To mark this launch, two local poets – Tug Dumbly and Benito Di Fonzo – also jumped up to perform a poem, much to the delight of the small audience. All three poets had to raise their voices above the heavy traffic and it would have been good if they’d had a microphone. The attendance of someone from local council should have been a courtesy extended to mark the launch. The Art Seat will be on display until the end of January 2021. (ID)
WORDS ON BATHROOM WALLS
he sensitive subject of youths struggling with schizophrenia is realistically portrayed in this drama/ romance marketed at teenage audiences. Its purpose is not only to entertain but indirectly to educate young audiences about this chronic mental disorder which allows for visual and auditory hallucinations. Charlie Plummer delivers an outstanding performance as Adam, an awkward and socially inept teenager who suffers from this disease. He attends a new school mid-semester owing to the bullying he
acquired from his previous school and a therapeutic romance blossoms with his tutor. His mother is on a fruitless mission to find a cure. This film perfectly depicts the effects of schizophrenia, the following dialogue delivered by Adam summing up the harsh reality of people’s general perception of the illness, “When you’re a cancer kid people are so eager to grant you any wish, but when you have schizophrenia people just treat you differently.” Audiences will feel the pain of this
A CALL TO SPY
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t’s 1941 and the Nazis are ready to cross the English Channel. There is concern as the spies Britain has sent to France are amateurs, one astoundingly being caught carrying British cigarettes. 22
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Churchill creates the Secret Army Of Spies (SOE) to recruit and train women as spies. Two women who want to stop Hitler with a passion have been chosen to join the agency - one with a wooden leg which is considered inconspicuous. However, mistakes are being made back in Britain. “Our best is costing people their lives,” remarks a colonel.” Inspired by true stories, this historical drama depicts the bravery and leadership of these women who knowingly only had a 50% chance of returning home to their families. Sarah Megan Thomas produced, wrote, and stars in this film playing the pivotal role of legendary spy Virginia Hall who helped change the course of history. This average cinematic offering feels like a telemovie and opens in cinemas on Boxing Day, the biggest day of the year under normal circumstances. Major studios are withholding their biggest blockbusters for when COVID-19 subsides so B-grade films such as this are being released in their place. (MMo) WWW
tortured youth and experience the voices and imaginary characters which aid him with his day to day decision making. The effects on his loved ones are also explored. If audiences walk away
from the cinema with a sympathetic outlook upon people suffering from schizophrenia, then this film has achieved its goal. (MMo) WWWW
CROCK OF GOLD Shane MacGowan 1985. Photo : Andrew Caitlin
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his insightful documentary, which details the life and work of IrishEnglish vocalist and recording artist Shane MacGowan, should make absorbing viewing for anybody who has an interest in Irish music. Shane claims God chose him to save Irish music. He was the lead singer and songwriter of a successful Celtic punk band called The Pogues in the 70s, later on, a band member of The Popes,
and also worked on collaborations with artists including Joe Strummer and Kirsty MacColl. At the peak of his popularity, he played 363 gigs in one year. Alarmingly he started drinking at the age of six and proudly associates drunkenness with Irishness. This documentary explores his journey to the top – the substance abuse, the wild partying, his support for the IRA, and the turbulent years of broken dreams when he was broke and living on the dole. Animated sequences, photographs, archive footage, and informative interviews with family, journalists, and fellow musicians reveal the story behind this iconic singer. Johnny Depp who served as a producer additionally makes an appearance. At a running time of just over two hours, this documentary also pays homage to Ireland, as audiences learn the history of the country and its hostilities with Britain. (MMo) WWW
IndieARTS
THE FLOOD N
ot since The Chant Of Jimmy Blacksmith of the late 70s has there been such a violent and disturbing Australian film which has dealt with the Aboriginal’s retribution on white man for the atrocities afflicted upon them. Set during WWII it was claimed that any Aboriginal who served at war would be treated equally upon their return – they lied. The film follows Jarah and her husband’s harrowing journey to locate their missing daughter who has been stolen and put to work on a farm. “Saddle up – it’s
going be a bumpy ride!” announces Jarah as she takes charge. Filmed in the picturesque Kangaroo Valley, this is an extremely violent movie with a graphic gang rape scene that leaves nothing to the imagination. What started out as powerful filmmaking deflated in the second half owing to the overly ambitious Tarantino style of filmmaking which seemed to trivialise the subject matter. The dark humour, symbolic sequences, non-linear format, and endless flashbacks also compounded to the film’s degradation.
Indisputably the horrendous and undignified treatment of Aboriginals in the darkest chapters of our history is a
significant issue and should never be forgotten, but this film underwhelmed. (MMo) WW1/2
The Famous Spiegeltent. Photo: Supplied
Bronwyn Kidd. Photo: Supplied
FLICKERFEST INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL 2021
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he prestigious Flickerfest International Short Film Festival celebrates its 30th anniversary this year and Festival Director of 24 years, Bronwyn Kidd, explained that she never imagined it would reach this milestone. “You take on something, you put in a lot of energy and it grows. It’s just fantastic to see that Flickerfest has been around
for 30 years. I’m thrilled that we have been such a strong platform for really celebrating so many filmmakers’ careers and for being able to give Australian audiences the opportunity to experience these really great independent and fresh short films which they would otherwise not get a chance to see.” When asked why Flickerfest continues
Artist’s impression
to be one of the most highly respected short film festivals which garners interest from all over the world Bronwyn was quick to answer, “I think we’re very focused and committed to great diversity on the program. We really are trying to reach out and share stories for all the community and are especially focused on the quality of our programming.”
With lockdowns all around the world owing to the COVID-19 pandemic it came as a surprise that filmmakers’ enthusiasm was maintained, since over 2,700 short films were submitted into the festival. “There have been some remarkable dramas come through, some great comedies, and a real diversity of stories that I’m thrilled to present. The hardest thing for us is always deciding what not to include. We screen 200 short films across 27 programs but it’s hard to make the final choices.” This year the film festival will be presented in an outdoor cinema under the stars as well as in a Spiegeltent for the indoor cinema. People attending need not be concerned about COVID-19 as all NSW Health guidelines including social distancing, hygiene practices, and cashless transactions will be followed at all screenings. “It’s very important to us that we present a safe event where people feel comfortable, but also an enjoyable event as well.” (MMo) Jan 22 -31. Bondi Beach.Tickets & Info: www.flickerfest.com.au
Luxury retirement living apartments now selling from $680,000. Make the move to one of 49 beautifully designed 1, 2 and 3 bedroom independent living apartments:
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• Located on Norton Street, offering easy access to dining, shopping and transport. • Enjoy on-site amenities including a resident’s clubroom, library and rooftop terrace. Book your appointment today 1800 864 846 uniting.org/nortonstreet © Copyright Uniting NSW.ACT 20-IL-724. DEC20
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WIN AN APPLE WATCH 4 TO BE WON
• Spend $100 at a major retailer, $30 at a speciality store or $10 at the food court
• Visit the courtesy desk near the Santa Set between 11am & 3pm to enter
• Receipt must be retained as proof of purchase
& be for the valid promotional period Visit website for more details
T&Cs apply. Starts 12pm 28/11/2020, ends 2pm 23/11/2020. One Apple watch will be given away each week, $50 MarketPlace Leichhardt gift card every day. Max. of one entry per person per day. Receipts must be for the valid promotional period. See website for full terms and conditions.
marketplaceleichhardt.com.au
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INNER WEST INDEPENDENT DECEMBER 2020