INNER WEST INDEPENDENT November 2020 by Alt Media

Inner West council future hangs in the balance

Social enterprise brings affordable mental health care to Leichhardt

We’ve really thrown ourselves into the deep end

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YOUR FREE INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER JAMIE PARKER, Member for Balmain

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TOXIC TERMINAL BY RIDA BABAR AND ALLISON HORE mminent plans to undergo construction at the White Bay residential site, near Rozelle and Balmain, will have an immense impact on the community. Long-suffering residents in the area who have already dealt with WestConnex construction will have more noise pollution to contend with. But not only that, leaked government documents reveal contaminated sediment unearthed during the construction will find a “temporary home” at White Bay, putting residents at risk of exposure to harsh toxins. This aim of the project, touched on in the leaked documents, is to build huge 6.5-kilometre tunnels for the Western Harbour and Beaches Link between Rozelle and North Sydney. The NSW Government said the “much needed tunnels” provide a “missing link” in the city’s motorways and would be a “game changer” for Sydney, providing more direct bus routes between the Inner West, Sydney and North Sydney. Rather than a traditional tunnelling process like the one used to dig the tunnels for Sydney’s metro system, the construction process for the new harbour tunnels would involve a large trench being dug into the harbour and prefabricated concrete tubes being lowered into position from barges above.

Proposed construction at White Bay threatens local livelihoods

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TOXIC SEDIMENT UNEARTHED

Much of the sludge dredged up in this process will be dumped at sea, the project’s environmental impact report suggests around 142,500 cubic centimeters of contaminated sediment from the top layer of seabed would have to be moved on shore for treatment before being put in landfill. Chemicals found on the harbour seabed, including furans, dioxins and PCBs are part of what the World Health Organisation calls the “dirty dozen”. Dioxins, the WHO says, are toxic to liver and kidney function and can cause cancer. Heavy metals including lead, mercury and cadmium are also present in the harbour sediment. The proposed area for the contaminated sediment to be handled and dumped in White Bay is less than 100 meters from residents’ homes, putting them at risk of exposure to odour and volatile emissions. Jamie Parker, Member for Balmain, has condemned this plan, saying it essentially creates a “massive toxic waste dump in the middle of a densely populated residential suburb”. He told Inner West Independent the government’s approach towards the scheme, in terms of community impact, was short-sighted. “The cumulative impact on residents is enormous with WestConnex surface works underway, Sydney Metro site establishment to begin soon, followed by work on the Western Harbour Tunnel,” he said. Continued on page 4

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IndieNEWS Toxic Terminal

(Continued from the cover)

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PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK Picnic At Hanging Rock comes to Newtown (See p. 21)

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, Rida Babar, John Moyle Advertising Managers: Mal Moody 0404 042 615 Dan Kinsela 0400 319 934 Advertising: sales@altmedia.net.au Cover Photo: Ann-Marie Calilhanna. Jamie Parker, Member for Balmain 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 NOVEMBER 2020

Jamie Parker. Photo: Ann-Marie Calilhanna

“The government has absolutely no plan to deal with the cumulative impacts of all these projects.” In a statement to the Sydney Morning Herald in April, a strata committee representing about 2000 apartment owners and residents near the proposed dumping site in White Bay lamented over the plan which they say is a “betrayal” by the NSW government. “Our owners purchased their apartments in good faith ... with no warning from the NSW government that such adverse impacts could be imposed. The proposals represent a blatant betrayal,” the statement said. The Inner West council also expressed concerns over the seabed sediment handling site, telling the Sydney Morning Herald, “there is always a chance of an unforeseen spill or other pollution event, and this could take some time to rectify”.

NOISY NEIGHBOURS

Construction noise from the project is also set to have a detrimental effect on the community. The NSW Government’s environmental impact statement says there is expected to be around 700 heavy vehicle movements and 530 light vehicle movements per day during peak construction- in this case, the process of treating and moving materials for tunnelling work. These vehicle movements, as well as the noise on site will make living in the area “unbearable”, says Mr. Parker. He says the government’s plan to buy out some properties in the area shows they

understand the impact the project will have on residents. “The noise will be so bad, it’s set to make some parts of the local area completely unliveable,” he said. “The government acknowledges the impact will be so intolerable that residents may be forced out.” Mr. Parker says he plans to take a delegation of local residents and strata committees to see the Minister for Roads so she can “hear firsthand what a devastating impact this plan is going to have on our community.”

The cumulative impact on residents is enormous “The Western Harbour Tunnel is just a desperate attempt to funnel more traffic and revenue into the failing WestConnex project. Residents in the Inner West don’t want spaghetti junctions and toll ways. They want clean, green and affordable public transport services,” he said. Touching on the impact the construction will have on residents the NSW Government said the White Bay site is “key” in reducing the number of trucks passing through residential streets. They also reassured residents construction on the project would take place during “standard construction hours”.

TUNNEL “WON’T SOLVE CONGESTION” The NSW Government said with the city’s population expected to grow from 5 million to 8 million over the next 40 years, easing congestion on some of the city’s busiest roads is a priority.

The tunnels, the government claim, will ease congestion on the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Warringah Freeway and Eastern Distributor which have all been identified as among Australia’s most busy roads. But Mr. Parker doesn’t agree that the tunnels will solve congestion issues in the Inner West. “Our community will have to deal with the impacts of this project for years to come but won’t see any real benefit from it because the Western Harbour Tunnel won’t solve Sydney’s congestion problem,” Mr. Parker added. “It’s incredibly disappointing that the government and the Labor opposition remain wedded to these mega projects that are locking our city into an expensive and polluting future of private car dependence.” Mr. Parker has issued multiple statements calling for action to stop these plans and rescue the livelihood of residents amongst an already difficult year with the COVID-19 pandemic. He said by utilising traditional tunneling methods, rather than the trench process the government could avoid some of the community’s concerns regarding noise and sediment. “We’re calling for the government to abandon dredging of the harbour between the Balmain peninsula and Waverton all together,” he said. “This connection could be built with conventional tunnelling methods which would reduce noise and pollution at White Bay and avoid the environmental damage that will come from disturbing hundreds of years of toxic pollution on the harbour floor.”

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Community calls out illegal dumping

Leading the way on organic waste BY RIDA BABAR he Inner West Council is taking measures to encourage environmental consciousness with organic waste initiatives being updated and phased out around the communities. The service has come as an addition to the Leichhardt Council’s food recycling program in apartment blocks, which has been in operation since 2008, and will involve the usage of a food organics collection in the former Marrickville Local Government area. The initiative will involve residents being given kitchen bench top bins, compostable bags, and information to aid the collection of food organics to be placed in the ‘burgundy bins’ provided by council. Following the major protests and uproar over the past few years regarding climate change, this initiative comes as an exciting opportunity to counter food waste and encourage locals to participate in recycling. A spokesperson from the council commented on the plans to promote this initiative, saying “the new food recycling service has been promoted via Council’s website, newsletter and social media channels to the broader public. Direct engagement with residents and building managers occurs during and after roll out to establish a feedback channel for the participating community.”

Inner West Council faces backlash for dumping. Photo: Wikimedia

BY KATE RAFFERTY mid Covid-19 conditions and closure of op shops, illegal dumping and waste pile-up has increased in the Inner West, and locals say the issue is not getting better. “Just visibly the dumping has increased twice as much in the Inner West,” says Kieran Archee, sales employee at the Bower Reuse and Repair Centre, Marrickville. “You see it on the streets, everyone has been cleaning their houses like crazy in the last 6 months,” he said. Across NSW, illegal dumping has spiked. The Environment Protection Authority reported a 34 per cent increase in illegal dumping incidents in April this year compared to the same month last year, and a rise of 42 per cent for dumping of household waste in the same period. With more people working from home, there’s been a newfound enthusiasm for cleaning up around the house. However, increases in dumping incidents have also been linked to evictions, online shopping, and expats returning home. At the Bower Reuse and Repair Centre in Marrickville, dumping of household goods has increased as well as general donations, said to Louise Grace, Programs Manager at The Bower. “COVID-19 has definitely played a part. With so many people suddenly working from home or not working and having time on their hands there has been a massive increase,” she said. “Dumping isn’t acceptable, even if the item left is the type of thing we would accept we don’t always have space to accommodate it so then it gets damaged from being outside and exposed to the elements,”

CULTURE OF THRIFT

Despite an evident rise in dumping around the area, Ms. Grace says Inner West residents value environmental ways of disposing household goods, such as recycling, rehoming or donating at op shops and reuse and repair centres like The Bower.

The local Facebook group, Street Bounty - Inner West, has over 19,000 members and promotes the “recycling and reuse of materials, keeping kerbs cleaner, landfill emptier and wallets fuller, many residents express a concern with council led clean-ups, which typically send discarded goods straight to landfill or in trucks to be crushed.” But Inner West resident Kirsti Claymore says many will opt for their council clean-up anyway:

Visibly the dumping has increased twice as much in the Inner West “Getting council collection is easy and free… and at least with council collection it stops people randomly dumping stuff in back streets,” she said. Hurlstone Park resident Murray Lewis paid $495 on a private clean up collection after missing the council’s clean up service in May. “The Inner West council no longer leaves flyers in letter boxes for 6 monthly kerbside clean ups, so our last clean up in May collected almost nothing in the local area. “When I contacted council and requested a special collection I was advised this is no longer done in the Ashfield area. I spent $495 on a private collection…I’m sure many cannot afford this and rubbish will be dumped,” he said. In response, Jamie Parker MP and Member for Balmain said, “it is the responsibility of the Inner West Council to keep our streets clean and safe. It shouldn’t be difficult to ensure a basic level of service given the rates we pay in the Inner West,” Ideas for new ways to ‘up-cycle’ reusable goods include a drop-off usable goods service run by council, but the Bower’s Louise Grace says that the community also needs to appreciate that environmental disposal is a commitment. “It can take time and effort to re-home items. Also, for a circular economy model to work people need to buy second hand items, not just donate them,” she said.

The response from residents to the new food recycling service has been overwhelmingly positive “The response from residents to the new food recycling service has been overwhelmingly positive with high rates of participation and extremely low rates of contamination. Council has received numerous emails from residents praising the service and from smaller buildings interested in joining the service.” The plan aims to eliminate 35% of waste in residential garbage bins which currently holds organics that are able to be recycled.

INNER WEST LEADING THE WAY

Mayor Darcy Byrne commented on the initiative in a council statement

issued earlier this year, saying “Inner West Council wants to lead the nation in eliminating organic waste. This announcement is the latest stage in the complete overhaul of our domestic waste services.” “We are about to roll out a huge community education campaign to eliminate food waste from our garbage bins. Reducing food waste is also one of the most important things we can do to reverse global warming.”

A bin that is part of the council’s new organic waste programs. Photo: Waste Management Review

“Food waste also has a huge impact on people’s hip pockets, with the Government estimating it costs the Australian economy $20 billion each year.” This speaks to the economic benefits of the initiative as well as the environmental ones. Statistically and observationally, the spokesperson commented on the changes that have occurred as a result of the organic waste initiatives, saying, “it’s a little early to see any changes in other waste behaviours as a result of the introduction of this service. Residents have very quickly adapted to separating food scraps from other garbage.” “Council is currently collecting over 12 tonnes of food scraps per week. The roll out of the food service to the south of the Inner West local government area has also increased the interest of the north area which has had access to the service since 2008 with increased tonnages and extra buildings coming on board.” With the COVID-19 pandemic taking the spotlight from environmental issues, measures to address the issues of food waste and recycling is a refreshing change for the community. INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

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WestConnex network changes “ridiculous” BY DANIEL LO SURDO esidents of the Inner West have expressed their collective discontent to the State Government’s local network changes at Haberfield, Ashfield, and Leichhardt. Transport for NSW revealed in October that they had received 3400 submissions from community organisations, businesses and Councils consulting the developers on the proposal. 86 per cent of submissions received expressed opposition to the proposals, where matters of accessibility, safety and local traffic emerged as key concerns for the Inner West. “Residents deserve better treatment from a Government that seems hell-bent on destroying their suburbs,” said Mayor Byrne in a media release issued earlier this year. Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne believes the project ultimately neglects safety and efficiency on local roads to improve traffic flow for the nearby WestConnex motorway. “The proposed changes are ridiculous and, in some cases, reckless,” Mayor Byrne said in May. “They will create massive, new rat runs and make life impossible for local residents.” Transport for NSW launched the proposal in April, promising motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians easier and safer travel at intersections relieved of traffic congestion.

community organisations,” Mildwater said in October.

“We have decided … to reassess our proposals, to ensure that any potential changes increase safety and connectivity for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists around the Inner West.” The State’s project team has pledged to continue working with key stakeholder groups to develop proposed solutions that address traffic congestion and safety issues while ensuring positive results for Inner West residents.

Overview of the Inner West. Photo: via Transport NSW

The network changes are poised to block previous entries to the City West Link, Lilyfield, and Haberfield, growing concern for local establishments reliant on accessible transport infrastructure. “If these changes go ahead, the State Government is essentially going to lock down Haberfield permanently – you won’t be able to get into Haberfield from Parramatta Road and you won’t be able to get out via Waratah Street. Businesses are rightly concerned this could be the death of Haberfield shopping centre,” Mayor Byrne said.

COMMUNICATION CONCERNS

Difficulties communicating with Transport for NSW have worsened relations with the community. “Talking to the State Government about their road projects – which have

disproportionately disadvantaged Inner West residents time and time again – is like talking to a brick wall,” Mayor Byrne said. “Residents deserve better treatment from a Government that seems hell-bent on destroying their suburbs.”

Residents deserve better treatment from a Government that seems hell-bent on destroying their suburbs Transport for NSW Deputy Secretary for Greater Sydney Elizabeth Mildwater insists that the submissions from the Haberfield, Ashfield, and Leichhardt communities are valued and will prompt a review of the proposals exhibited earlier in the year. “We engaged early with the community because we wanted to hear the views of local residents, businesses and

“We look forward to continuing to work with the community, councils and key stakeholders to develop solutions that deliver the best long-term outcomes,” Mildwater said. “The community will be kept informed of future plans for Ashfield, Haberfield and Leichhardt and will be consulted on any new proposals.” The project is targeting the intersections located at James Street, Norton Street and the City West Link, Waratah Street and Dobroyd Parade, Mortley Avenue and Timbrell Drive, and Parramatta Road and Dalhousie Street. The project’s consultation included two moderated Q&A webinar sessions, seven workshops held between Inner West and Canada Bay Council, four local school workshops, and over 10,000 views on Transport for NSW’s interactive portal.

Writers rooms revoked BY EVA BAXTER 021 would have been Writing NSW’s thirtieth year in the Garry Owen House in Lilyfield’s Callan Park. But COVID-19 forced the Writing NSW staff to close their writing rooms and clear out. They had were unable to return when their $175,000 of guaranteed funding was swept out from under them in August. Thus, #SaveWritingNSW was born, an online campaign from the writing community who phoned and wrote to members of parliament, signed petitions, posted online and filled the inbox of Don Harwin, Minister for the Arts. A month later, Writing NSW CEO Jane McCredie and other representatives were in a room with Mr. Harwin in his ministerial office. They presented to him the argument that the organisation is vital to the ecosystem of arts in the state. “It’s kind of ironic that the people who write stories apparently aren’t very good at selling their own story,” said Jane. Create NSW is giving $2,280,000 to literature organisations out of the $40,000,000 allocated to arts and cultural organisations over four years.

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

The funding body must decide who needs their assistance the most.

It’s particularly competitive for literature organisations which receive less funding than any other artform, with only 5.7% slice of the pie. Although Writing NSW met the published criteria for multi year funding, they were not ranked as highly as the five organisations that were approved.

service organisations fall off the funding agenda when things get tough Writing NSW is an arts-service organisation, which means it exists in the back room developing writers while producing organisations have a more public face by presenting the work.

SERVICE V.S. PRODUCTION

“An either or approach to funding artsservice organisations or arts-producing organisations is emerging,” said Cecelia Cmielewski, research officer at Western Sydney University’s Institute for Culture and Society.

The Writer’s Centre in Callan Park. Photo: via True Local

“It’s a simplistic but not uncommon knee jerk reaction that service organisations fall off the funding agenda when things get tough,” she said. Meredith Curnow, publisher at Penguin Random House, attended the meeting with Harwin. She said Harwin presented the point that strong funding is committed to the Sydney Writer’s Festival and the Byron Bay Writer’s Festival. Create NSW has provided a further $625,000 to literary festivals, in addition to $1.7 million to support script development on 66 projects with 18 production companies, which will support a significant number of writers over the coming year.

Meredith said this is valid, but festivals and screen aren’t developing new writers. The meeting with Harwin dissolved with Writing NSW representatives left with the impression that future decisions around the organisation should wait until a review of arts-service organisations is completed. Until she receives word about the outcome of the meeting, Jane is making tentative plans to come back to face to face programming. Writing NSW is relying on their reserves to keep them going for at least the first six months of 2021. Certain expensive protocols have to be in place before they can re-open the Garry Owen House.

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Uncertain future for Inner West Council BY MADDY CONSTANTINE lizabeth Richardson, Chief Operating Officer at The Inner West Council, has been announced as acting General Manager following the shock resignation of CEO Michael Deegan. Richardson, an employee of the council for nine years, has been appointed to the role temporarily as the Council attempts to rebuild in the wake of Deegan’s exit. The news comes after reports have come to light of rising tensions between Mr Deegan and senior council members, including Mayor, Clr Darcy Byrne. Staff at the council received an email on September 21 from Deegan stating that he had sought “union representation” regarding the termination of his contract. The next email council staff received concerning the matter was after the resignation was formally accepted, praising Mr Deegan’s contribution to the council over the last 18 months. A council worker, who wishes to remain anonymous, described the situation and workplace environment as “very weird right now…nobody knows what’s going on.” This sentiment, as well as a tight-lipped

Former Inner West Council CEO, Michael Deegan. Photo: Flickr/LGMA National

council press office, contradicts the council’s commitment to the value of being transparent with its employees and the community as many are left wondering what lies ahead.

It’s all just politics Richardson’s appointment, albeit temporary, might bring some sense of stability to a council environment that has been through a rocky series of events ever since the 2016 amalgamation. As an employee of the council for nine years, Richardson is no doubt

familiar with the community, council employees and upper management. Her management of an insecure workforce during this interim period however will be the defining measure of her success. “Yeah, she’s alright,” said the anonymous council worker, “it’s all just politics.”

DEEGAN’S MYSTERY EXIT

The council has said little about its vision for the short or long term, but accepting the resignation of Mr. Deegan appears to be the first of many steps to direct negative attention away from the unfolding situation. It has been reported that Mr. Deegan

was seeking moral support from council employees during his final weeks. One email sent to council workers by Deegan allegedly stated that he would “not condone bullying” directed towards him by senior councillors and upper management, leaving the recipients of the email wondering what was going on behind closed doors. Council workers are not the only ones questioning the mysterious exit, as local politicians weigh in on the situation. Greens Senator Colin Hesse says the public deserves an explanation whilst on the other side of the pond; Liberal MLC Scott Farlow has called foul play by suggesting Mr. Deegan was placed in the position by Leader of the Opposition and council constituent Anthony Albanese. He has accused Deegan of trying to sweeten the terms of his resignation prior to his departure. It is difficult to guess what the council plans to do to win back the confidence of its employees and constituents, but there is no doubt a concerted effort will be made to play down rumours of animosity between the now former CEO and his council colleagues. The council’s media office and the office of Elizabeth Richardson were contacted, but declined to comment.

Councillors clash over monitoring claims BY SCOTT CARROLL n a meeting on Tuesday October 27, councillors denied a motion that Inner West Council should report its monitoring practices. The motion follows multiple accusations that Inner West Council staff are monitoring councillor correspondences including intercepting mail, emails and phone calls. Councillor John Stamolis, who put forward the motion, said: “There were three [councillors] who voted against the motion who were, in fact, the ones who expressed very serious concerns about it.” “Because we are a labour run council, of course, they don’t want these sort of things coming out so automatically they would vote against it. It’s just pure politics.” The suspicion of monitoring led Labor mayor Darcy Byrne to contact councillors through his private email address after advice that the Inner West Council email service is “potentially being monitored by Council officers.” Despite the correspondence on his private email address, Mr. Byrne voted against the motion. Mr. Stamolis’ proposed motion lost with

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

six votes for to seven votes against. Of the allegations, councillors also accuse Inner West Council of withholding mail addressed to them from residents. Councillor Julie Passas also alleges that the Inner West Council withheld mail addressed to her, with residents approaching her in the street questioning why she hasn’t replied to their correspondence.

We’re supposed to be working together, staff and council, for the good of the municipalitye “We’re supposed to be working together, staff and council, for the good of the municipality. How can we fulfil our role if we don’t know what exactly is going on? We need to be briefed, we need to know,” said Ms. Passas. In a council meeting acting General Manager Elizabeth Richardson assured councillors that although the Inner West Council retains emails, no staff member is yet to access the archives since 2016. Stamolis remains sceptical of the acting

Councillor John Stamolis who put forward the motion in council. Photo: Supplied

General Manager’s comments due to her recent appointment. “She [Ms. Richardson] was only in the acting role for about four days, so how can she make that comment,” said Mr. Stamolis.

A CASE OF “MISUNDERSTANDING” However, other councillors do not feel concerned about the allegations of monitoring, as councillor Colin Hesse

thinks that it is just a misunderstanding. “I think it is not true except in case of the mayor, where his staff monitor the emails sent from members of the community by agreement. So I think it was a misunderstanding by one or two councillors about that,” said Mr. Hesse “I don’t have any concerns, including any concerns about councillors’ emails being monitored by staff.” Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz also proposed an amendment in the motion, recommending that a report should be produced on Inner West Council’s information governance procedures. Councillor Marghanita Da Cruz also proposed an amendment in the motion, recommending a report on Inner West Council’s information governance procedures. However, even with the proposed amendment, the motion failed to attract the attention of other councillors. “The practice is not in keeping with inner west values, the inner west people and I doubt if any other council did it. You always need monitoring, but you hand it to the appropriate authorities,” said Mr. Stamolis.

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Commercial rent hikes frustrate Balmain businesses BY RACHEL CLARK he increase in commercial rent along Balmain’s infamous Darling Street is an ongoing issue that is potentially leading to the loss of a vibrant community of small businesses. In recent years, the turnover of business along Darling Street in Balmain has been quite high, with a once-vibrant street filled with small businesses now unable to sustain long term residency. Joanne, the owner of the Little Treasure Chest toy store started her business only 18 months ago, which has been a long-time dream of hers. The rent for the store has already begun to rise and she’s starting to feel the effects. “I work six days a week and can’t employ any staff, some days I even struggle to pay myself. Luckily job keeper has been a great help,” she says. Owners from various stores state similar factors contributing to impact upon their storefronts. These factors include rent contracts having an average increase of 3-4% each year written into them, a rise in e-commerce, and landlords owning full blocks of buildings and preferring to keep them vacant so property value remains high. “Rents are high because they can,” says Telma, owner of Infancy.

A view of Darling St, Balmain. Photo: Wikimedia

She went on to explain that they have been lucky to be supported by the community around them, but landlords aren’t as considerate for small businesses, especially with the rise of e-commerce.

You see a lot of businesses close down, and it’s not good for the community “You see a lot of businesses close down and it’s not good for the community. It’s a poor reflection upon the community, especially for a high street,” says Joanne.

UNCERTAIN TIMES FOR SMALL BUSINESS

Small businesses are working in uncertain times in Australia as the impacts of the bushfires, a pandemic, and now a recession have caused multiple blows to the economy, with small businesses right at the bottom. Increases in commercial rent are not helping these small businesses survive along Darling Street. Jamie Parker MP, Member for Balmain said, “early on in the pandemic I worked hard towards helping the introduction of rules at the state government level

to make it easier on small business to negotiate rent reductions and placed a ban on commercial evictions until the end of this year.” He continues on to call for the government to further support small businesses during this time, rather than turning off the tap in January 2021 as business owners will face additional challenges going into the future. Bikendra Shrestha the owner of local café, Grind and Grit, says that his business has only been open for about a year but he has lived in the area for many years prior and witnessed businesses come and go. Recognising COVID-19 has taken a further toll on an already difficult situation, there is community support with local clientele and e-commerce for those through apps and websites has allowed businesses to keep their revenue stream. “Uber Eats has been the saving grace throughout COVID. Without Uber Eats, Menulog and Deliveroo, we would be long gone by now,” says Bikendra. Local support from the community is essential for these businesses to remain alive along the high street. “It’s important for all of us to remember to shop local this holiday season because the businesses that bring so much to our community need our support now more than ever,” says Jamie Parker.

Inner West “cheated” out of grant BY BRIANNAH DEVLIN he investigation into the distribution of funds from the Stronger Community Funds grants has continued, with Mayor Darcy Byrne saying that the Inner West Council has been “cheated” out of $24 million, which could have contributed to a new local library. The Inner West Council announced on October 27th that they had united with Canterbury Bankstown to write a letter to the NSW government, along with other councils who did not receive a share of the $252 million in grants.

Communities right across the state have missed out on vital money for local infrastructure Inner West Council Mayor, Darcy Byrne, said that the money from the grant that was specifically established for emerging councils and would have been dedicated to “local infrastructure upgrades.” “Communities right across the state have missed out on vital money for local infrastructure simply because they were not in areas held by members of the NSW Government,” he said. 10

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

The Inner West Council and Canterbury Bankstown council have sought the help of Brett Walker SC who will be providing legal advice to the two councils over the next few weeks. The Stronger Communities fund was first introduced in 2016 and had different sized grants to help councils and community groups improve their facilities. The grant is currently delegated to fifty percent of a project’s estimated costs.

THE DIFFERENCE GRANTS MAKE The Inner West Council received $300, 000 in funding in 2016, which was allocated to a number community groups. Marrickville Youth Resource Centre (MYRC) was one of the lucky recipients. They received the funding across two years. “Good projects would take a certain amount of cash to get off the ground and keeping it off the ground is usually the hard bit,” said Tom McDonald, director of Marrickville Youth Resource Centre. “The important part was there was longevity in that role over two years. And it gave us the chance to really build something.”

Marrickville Youth Resource Centre. Photo: Supplied

“A lot of funding out there is based on one year projects, and there’s always the conundrum that if your project is really successful, there is a very good chance that it’ll suffer unless you have some forward thinking in your planning to actually to make it sustained.” This gave the organisation the opportunity to introduce some more sustainable measures for the centre, which also became education for the wider community. “For us more is to do with learning to do with school groups, and how to actually

talk about how a rainwater tank is used, and use ours as an example, the benefits of it and so on. And the environmental impact of it. It has been good for the community in that respect,” said Mr. McDonald. Other sustainable measures have been implemented in the building such as LED lighting, solar panel roofing, and the ability for MYRC to install a tracking system to monitor their energy usage. Mayor Byrne said that over twenty councils were denied funds from the Stronger Communities Fund.

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 S a v e d 2 92 ,0 0 0 k g o f C O  C o s t a lm o s t 70 % le s s to re f ue l  C re a t e d 35 % o f t h ei r o w n e n 2

 Jamie at the launch of four electric buses at the Leichhardt depot in 2019



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Tra v e ll e d u p to 23 w it h o u t a b r e a k 0 k m p e r d a y down A r e q u ie t e r, p ro du v ib ra t io n a n d n ce le s s o f ume s com *

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NEWS IN BRIEF PASTA PERFECTION BY GEORGIA ROBINSON he Italian Bowl is one of the most popular restaurants in the Inner West, winning ‘restaurant of the year’ consecutively for the past three years.

Their simple ‘pick your pasta, pick your sauce’ menu keeps customers coming back for more, and there is a line out the door almost every night.

cheaper than making at home,” says Jenny Spyridis who runs the business with her parents and husband. She says that the key to their success was because “it was simple and a reasonable price.” “It’s easy for people. You can’t sit there and have a meal for two hours, it’s just quick and simple.” The family have considered opening up other restaurants but feel as

The Kate Owen Gallery. Photo: Supplied

MORE THAN A STORE BY GEORGIA ROBINSON he Kate Owen Gallery, located in the heart of Rozelle, showcases thousands of Indigenous art pieces and has become an art hotspot for those in the Inner West. What started off as a personal studio and gallery for Kate Owen in 2007, has now turned into an opportunity to appreciate and celebrate Indigenous art from all over Australia.

The art is sourced from their art studio in Alice Springs, as well as independent artists and artists in residence. The gallery’s director, Geoff Henderson, who bought the gallery from Kate in 2013, believes the gallery has been so successful because of the in-gallery experience. “We’re agnostic about where the

art is sourced from, but what we’re interested in is that it’s a great representation of the artist’s talent,” Geoff explains. “If people come and visit us and don’t buy, of course that’s fine, but one thing we insist on, is that people should leave with a smile on their face.” When buying a piece from the gallery, services including art consultancies, home trials, digital hanging and deliveries are all provided by the gallery. Geoff adds that the relaxed and personal experience of the gallery allows everyone to truly appreciate the art and adds this as another reason for the gallery’s success. “Everyone qualifies to buy art, to look at art, to enjoy art, art’s not something for someone else, art is something for all of us.”

The Italian Bowl. Photo: Supplied

The restaurant, which has been in Newtown since 2005, has a knack for knowing what the customer wants and they produce food which keeps the customers coming back for more. “Most of our customers come weekly, if not daily, and they get the same thing day after day, so it’s maintainable and it’s probably

DIVE INTO ASHFIELD SCARY GOOD DISCOUNTS BY JACK MAHONY icholson Street Public School released a ‘Trick & Treats’ discount book in place of the 2020 Halloween Festival which was

Nicholson St Public School’s Halloween discount book. Photo: Supplied 12

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

cancelled due to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions. The book was created as a collaboration between the Nicholson Street Public parents and community committee and local businesses in Balmain, Birchgrove and Rozelle. It aims to support local businesses by giving discount coupons to local families. The book, which adds up to savings of over $1000, contains coupons from 60 businesses. President of the P &C committee Ashley McGrath said all profits from the coupon book will go back to the school and the businesses benefit from the extra customers. Although it was the first time in its 30year history the festival was cancelled, McGrath said, “we recognised that we had many sponsors over the years and we wanted to find a way to give back to them in this trying time.” The book sells for $50 and has been a huge success with only 100 left for sale. The book’s success has meant the P & C committee will be looking forward to recreating similar books for the community each year.

BY JACK MAHONY shfield Aquatic Centre recently reopened after a $44.7 million upgrade, giving the area an impressive range of new aquatic, health and fitness facilities. This is the first upgrade to the facility since it was originally opened in the early 1960s. Inner West Mayor, Darcy Byrne said, “the rebuilding of the old Ashfield Pool is the largest community infrastructure project in our history, and we have now delivered multipurpose aquatics and health and fitness facilities that our community will enjoy for generations to come.” The new facilities include two 50m pools and a children’s leisure pool, new café, change areas, creche, sauna, spa and a 1000sqm gym. Already the centre is attracting great interest from the community with 1600 members to the gym and 1400 enrolled in the learn to swim program including holding approximately 35 school swimming carnivals in 2021.

though they won’t run well under management. “If you franchise, you may as well say goodbye to your business.” She adds that the customers are at the heart of the business. “We just want our customers walking out of there happy and satisfied and knowing that they had a good meal.” This is the biggest community infrastructure project in the Inner West Council’s history. “I hope that across summer everyone in our community will get down to the new pool for a dip and discover this outstanding new public facility for themselves,” said Mayor Byrne.

The newly renovated Ashfield Aquatic Centre. Photo: Supplied

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A new model for mental health care

Founder and director of Rough Patch, Amber Rules. Photo: Supplied

BY ALLISON HORE new counselling social enterprise in Leichhardt is pioneering a new model for mental health care in Sydney’s Inner West. Rough Patch Affordable Counselling opened in Leichhardt in August and has been met with an enthusiastic reception from locals who’ve accessed its services. Amber Rules, a psychotherapist who specialises in addiction recovery, is the founder and director of Rough Patch. She told City Hub the service is “filling a gap” in the mental health care market between full priced private health practices which can charge up to $250 an hour and free charity services. “People who know what the mental health care landscape is like are quite relieved we exist,” she explained. “A lot of people may be able to pay for one or two sessions at a full fee paying psychologist, but they just can’t afford to do it on an ongoing basis. And counselling takes time.” Rough Patch’s model, based on a Canadian mental health provider, makes the service unique in Australia. As opposed to being a charity organisation, the service is a non-profit social enterprise. Meaning, while the business makes money, it goes directly back into improving the quality of services rather than into the pockets of shareholders. While very low cost or free counselling is available through some faith-based charities and local area health services like hospitals, there are often very long wait lists and the high demand

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

means the service can be limited. Faith-based services are also not often the right fit for people. That’s where Rough Patch comes in, Ms. Rules said. “Often-times people are in a position where they can pay something, but they can’t afford what’s at the other end of the spectrum- which is full fee private practice, either counselling or psychology,” she said. The social enterprise provides mid-term counselling support for people who cannot afford market rate providers for which Medicare only rebates up to 10 sessions a year. Clients can take up to 15 sessions a year at Rough Patch and don’t need to provide proof of income to access the service.

Art for reconciliation BY ALLISON HORE new program for schools in Sydney’s CBD and Inner West is helping connect students with local Indigenous culture and identity. The new “Pathways to Reconciliation” program was developed by Reconciliation NSW and funded by the City of Sydney’s cultural and creative grants and sponsorship program. Fort Street, Bourke Street and Newtown Public Schools benefited from the program in Sydney’s city. In the Inner West, the program was sponsored by the council’s Community Wellbeing grants program and delivered at Kegworth Public School in Leichhardt and Tempe Public School.

to Reconciliation program has been “a great opportunity to connect with and appreciate the land we stand on.” “Creating an artwork was a fun way to show our understanding of Country and reconciliation and not just talk about it,” she said.

ALWAYS WAS, ALWAYS WILL BE

As part of NAIDOC week, the students’ artworks will be part of a series of public exhibitions. The artworks can be viewed by the local community along the schools’ fences on Unwins Bridge Road in Tempe and Tebbutt Street in Leichhardt. In the city, more Pathways to Reconciliation artworks will be displayed

The pandemic has caused isolation, job losses and financial stress for many families “One of our questions is, ‘would you be able to afford this counselling if it were market rate, if we didn’t exist?’. And the majority of our clients said no they wouldn’t have been able to,” she said.

COVID-19 COUNSELLING

Ms. Rules said a diverse range of mental health services, at a range of price points, is especially important within the context of the ongoing pandemic. She said her experience of counselling in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic is “all the normal stuff, but kind of on steroids”, with health, economic and isolation related concerns exacerbating existing worries or mental health issues people may have. “If you’re a parent, for example, parenting issues have just intensified as people have been spending so much time with their kids, homeschooling and doing their jobs,” she explained. “So it’s all the usual concerns, but just a lot more intense.” Individual counselling sessions at Rough Patch vary in price $60 from $90 depending on the client’s circumstances. Ms. Rules hopes in the future Rough Patch will be able to roll out group sessions to make the service even more affordable.

An exhibition on Kegworth Public School’s fence showcasing student works. Photo: Supplied/Reconciliation NSW

Reconciliation NSW says the aim of the program is to support schools and communities to “foster a higher level of knowledge and pride in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and contributions”. The students spent time learning from Uncle Jimmy Smith, a Wiradjuri Elder from the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Lands Council, and Aboriginal dance and culture educators Kerry and Maci Johnson.

on Bourke Street in Surry Hills, Norfolk Street in Newtown and Wattle Street in Ultimo from November 9th. The theme of NAIDOC week for 2020 is “Always Was, Always Will Be” in recognition of the First Nations peoples’ occupation and custodianship of the continent for over 65,000 years. For students in Sydney’s city and Inner West, the Pathways to Reconciliation program is a chance to, not only engage with indigenous stories, but also pass them on to others within the community. Reading these deeply thoughtful “We’ve used the knowledge from Uncle Jimmy and Kerry to pass on to other people so they and powerful messages, I am can share it and then those people can share hopeful for the future it. So the knowledge goes on and on forever,” said Freya. Reconciliation NSW told City Hub that Five students who participated in the Pathways to Reconciliation is different from Pathways program have gone on to be similar programs because it is delivered over finalists in Reconciliation NSW’s “Caring for a series of three workshops, rather than one Country - Schools Reconciliation Challenge” “FIFO” session. with their art and poetry selected from among over 600 entries across the state. “These help keep the kids connected to the knowledge and creates relationships and Woromi poet, Nicole Smede, who is one of the understanding,” Reconciliation NSW said. judges for the event said she was impressed The workshops introduced students to “Caring with the quality of the students’ work. for Country” concepts in their local areas and “Reading these deeply thoughtful and powerful students took part in yarning circles where messages, I am hopeful for the future,” she they explored identity, reconciliation, hopes said. and dreams. Work from all the Caring for Country - Schools After the workshops, the students created Reconciliation Challenge finalists will be artworks and writing based on what they on digital display at Powerhouse Museum had learned. Freya, a year five student at and Museums Discovery Centre throughout Newtown Public School said the Pathways NAIDOC week.

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FEATURE

Whatever happened to the worst pub in Sydney? By OLIVIA DAY OVID-19 has changed everything; how we learn, how we work, how we exercise, and how we socialise. But some would argue the change that’s been the hardest to swallow is how we enjoy a beer at our local pub. Having a schooner at your local pub used to be an uncomplicated process. You could walk up to the bar, pay $6.50 for your preferred ale and congregate around a table of your friends, watch over their shoulders as they lose fifties to the pokie machines, or stand under a stupidly oversized screen to watch the NRL. Walking into your local pub (after you’ve queued up to sign in using a QR code and applied a generous dollop of hand sanitiser) you will notice the walls are littered with laminated posters, reminding pub-goers to sit down and stay there, others reassure their patrons their local is following a COVID Safety Plan. One of these boozers, frequented by Rozelle locals is the Garry Owen Hotel. However, this pub has another name.

‘THE WORST PUB IN SYDNEY’.

On the 12th of August, The Garry Owen Hotel was fined $10,000 for not adhering to strict COVID rules, with the Industry regulator declaring it was ‘the worst pub in NSW for COVID-19 safety’. Liquor and Gaming Director of Compliance Dimitri Argeres said to ABC News that the breaches shocked the visiting COVID safety inspectors. If you visited the Garry Owen Hotel from Monday through to Saturday it would be Vicki Fretwell who would be pouring your midday schooner. As you step from the sunny footpath into the cool confines of the pub your eyes would take a second to adjust to the gloom of the downstairs bar. Fretwell, with a slight grimace on her face, would look up and ask you in a raspy voice to sign in. You can do this using a QR code or if the technology confuses you, a COVID Marshall will record your details using an iPad. You will notice her eyes linger on you for a moment because she doesn’t recognise you. The Garry Owen is a locals pub, with 99 percent of the

Garry Owen Hotel, Rozelle, exterior. Photo: Olivia Day

drinkers known to the two bartenders. The other bartender at the Garry Owen is Mason Singleton, a burly 25-year-old with a bushy moustache who works

Her eyes linger on you for a moment because she doesn’t recognise you nights, relieving Vicki at 4 pm. As you stand before the bar and contemplate your options (VB, Reschs, Tooheys, or Carlton) you’re hit by a strong stench of bleach then the fruity, sticky smell of yeast. Today Fretwell’s work uniform consists of calico black shorts and a sleeveless blue and white striped shirt, and comfortable hot pink Nikes. This year tradies aren’t the only ones whose uniform consists of fluorescent garments, Fretwell’s uniform is completed by a COVID marshal vest which is worn open and is too long on her. Her watery blue eyes are lined with clumpy blue eyeliner, and her hair is cropped and dyed bleach blonde. When she laughs it’s a dry cackle, revealing short, yellowed teeth that are lined with

black from years of smoking. Her hands are cracked, worn from years of pub labour, cleaning grates, moving kegs, and washing glasses. Vicki would be great to have a beer with, and wouldn’t be afraid to tell you how it is. To your right, a single patron slouches on a high stool close to the door wearing a rugby jersey, green and white, a schooner in his grip (VB ‘the best beer in the world’) he winks. A rusty ute rumbles past the pub and honks, Fretwell raises a hand solemnly, unsmiling. On every wall are laminated signs instructing patrons of what they can (and mostly can’t) do. “No moving furniture under ANY circumstances. We are required to adhere to COVID protocols to stay open any breaking of the law results in fines/ and or closure.”

PUB WITH A CHIMNEY ON THE TOILET

Nestled in busy Darling Street, the Garry Owen looks like any other terrace house that defines the Inner Western suburbs of Sydney. The building is a cream colour, with thick vines snaking their way around the building to the terrace above,

which has been painted mint green. A large blackboard on the outside of the pub lists the daily specials while another entices pedestrians with the promise of Tab, Keno, and a schooner happy hour 3 pm-6 pm. The Garry Owen Hotel was established in 1881 despite what is etched into the facade on the building and was once known for being the only pub in Rozelle with a chimney on the toilet back in 1937. Chucking a ‘Garryowen’ is a tactical play in Rugby Union where the ball is kicked high in the sky to allow for teammates to congregate underneath in numbers, named after the Garryowen club from Limerick, Ireland founded in 1884. The Garry Owen is your typical suburban pub. Signed Wallabies jerseys line the walls in glass frames, TV’s hang in every corner playing the Rugby League, and two pokie machines hum and flicker their blue fluorescent light, promising you a win. Shabby, chipped furniture is littered throughout the pub, if you go upstairs to the second floor, it gives the impression of a living room you’d find in a lowbudget hotel. Maroon leather couches clash with lime green tables. Yellow light emanates from a lamp on a side table even though the sun shines outside. ‘Top 100 Feel Good Friday’ tracks are playing, you can watch the music videos of Destiny Child’s ‘Jumpin’ and Music Factory’s ‘Everybody dance now’ on the TV. As you travel through the pub, you’ll find a complex maze of rooms, one containing an enormous ping pong table, an open terrace with views of the Anzac Bridge, and a room reminiscent of an old-school Ladies Lounge, but now seems to be used for storage. Dusty cardboard boxes hold glasses, coasters, cutlery, and the ping pong paddles, items reminiscent of a simpler time. Carlton Draught bar mats sit on top of a washing machine in an upstairs bathroom to dry. The mint green terrace would arguably be the best place to enjoy your beer, the balcony gives a birds-eye view of Darling Street and the pedestrians below, allowing you to people-watch to your heart’s content. Continued on page 16 INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

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Patrons at the Garry Owen Hotel. Photo: Facebook/ Garry Owen Hotel

(Continued from page 15) The only feature of the Gary Owen that comes as a surprise is an Italian bistro on the ground level. A deceptively small door and a short staircase reveal a large, light-filled dining area with wood floors and exposed brick walls. Large electric fans hang from high wooden beams. Light floods in through glass panes in the ceiling. Some of the tables stand on Persian style rugs, red to match the tiles on the colossal wood-fire oven that customers can see from their tables. Despite the attempts at an Italian theme, the Chef Specials sprawled on the blackboard are anything but. ‘All burgers with chips: $13.50’ and ‘Moroccan lamb w/ veggies: $15.00’.

A FRIGHTFUL FIRST

Although it now seems a weekly occurrence that an NSW pub is in the headlines for not complying with COVID Safe regulations, the Garry Owen was the first. On the 12th of August COVID Inspectors found that patrons were able to stand and mingle while enjoying their drinks with no physical distancing, a complete lack of hygiene procedures, no recording of patrons details on arrival, and the final nail in the coffin for the Garry Owen: the pub was not registered as COVID-safe with an up-to-date COVID Safety Plan. Liquor and Gaming NSW Director of Compliance, Dimitri Argeres told ABC News that now was not the time for allowing strangers to mingle, let alone allow patrons to scull beers off the pub’s balcony. Fretwell frowns and stares straight ahead unblinking as she remembers the issuing of the fine. With a subtle roll of her eyes, she says that Vanessa Hardin, now ex-manager of the Garry Owen, had no personal understanding of social 16

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

distancing. Vicki Fretwell said she was personally embarrassed because she treats the pub as her own and would feel ashamed as pedestrians whispered to each other as they walked by the pub. She looks accusingly out the door as she says this, but two middle-aged women walking a labrador take no notice. Between the lockdown period of late March to early June, Fretwell was still coming to the pub to perform general maintenance, ‘bending over backward’ as she puts it to keep the pub afloat. Fretwell says the licensee Robert Henderson, understands that she treats the pub as her own. Despite working in hospitality for over 40 years and many venues before the Garry Owen, she is proud of the pub and is dedicated to its upkeep, changing kegs, keeping track of invoices, doing the banking, organising stock-takes, and cleaning the beer lines (which only happens once a fortnight, ‘thank God’). Subsequent visits from COVID-safe inspectors to the Garry Owen Hotel have found compliance satisfactory, but Fretwell says it’s costing the pub to be COVID Safe. The pub has lost a huge amount of revenue from being unable to hold functions in the upstairs areas due to social distancing rules, as well as having to reduce the number of pokie machines in use. Extra wages have been forked out to hire a COVID marshal who clocks on every day at 4 pm to manage the night crowd. For a recent Rugby League game, when the Tigers were playing on their home turf, the Bankwest Stadium in Parramatta, Fretwell relays with wide eyes that the pub had to hire security to keep an eye on numbers.

THE COST OF HYGIENE

It is mandatory for all hospitality venues in NSW to register as COVID Safe. COVID-19 Safety plans provide a

checklist that businesses are obliged to follow in order to minimise the risk of transmission of COVID-19 on their premises. Pubs across NSW have had to elect a staff member to be the ‘Safe Hygiene Marshal’ on duty as part of this safety plan. The marshal works as a walking transmission detector who can usually be identified by a fluorescent vest, a bulky lanyard, or the signature blue badge that declares ‘We’re COVID Safe’. Each section of a pub, which for the Garry Owen is each individual room, is restricted to a specific number of patrons so drinking buddies are physically distanced at 1.5 meters apart. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the hospitality industry. The impact of closing pubs, clubs, bars, and restaurants combined with lockdown restrictions and people saving more than spending, has led to the largest quarterly economic fall on record. As a result hospitality has been the worst-hit industry with statistics reporting a loss of around 1 in 3 paid jobs in just one month since mid-March. In a paper released by Political Director Gary Bullock from the United Workers Union, he stated that this economic downturn had particularly impacted workers in the 20-29 year old age-group where jobs have been decreased by 40%. In NSW alone 63, 000 workers in licensed clubs have been impacted, the total across the country, 250 000. A survey of hospitality workers conducted by the Workers United Union found that there had been a loss of $1.3 million in wages.

She was personally embarrassed because she treats the pub as her own On the 27th of March, the NSW Government released the second stage of an economic package, a $1 billion fund as well as a deferral of gaming tax for clubs, pubs, and hotels to help businesses stay afloat and retain their staff. And for those eligible, the JobKeeper Payment allowed some workers to receive payments of $1500 per fortnight if their workplace had been affected by the COVID-19 economic downturn.

BAR STAFF ON THE FRONT LINE

And when the time came for pubs to open again, it was hospitality workers on the front line. Workers in the hospitality industry continue to be exposed to an increased health risk due to their interaction with the community. Young people working in pubs across the country returned to their workplace entrusting their superiors to have safety measures in place. Despite efforts to limit patrons, enforce

physical distancing, the use of protective equipment, and sanitising practices, it was largely on the shoulders of young people aged 20-29 to safely re-open the hospitality industry and keep their communities safe. Ongoing challenges for the hospitality industry include sustainable development, increased regulations and cost of development and operations, intense competition and the use of technology and social media. However, an unfavourable Tripview review is the least of concerns for a publican in NSW. A portal set up by NSW Health invites pub-goers to dob in the businesses that are not complying with COVID Safe regulations keeping publicans on edge. It’s the inspectors from Liquor & Gaming, SafeWork and Fair Trading that continue to haunt the dreams of licensees and pub owners across Sydney. Fines for not abiding to COVID-safe regulations can range from an on the spot fine of $5000 for a first offence to $50,000 for a breach of a public health order with a further $27,500 handed out for each day the offence continues. Liquor and Gaming NSW can close a pub for a week if the pub commits a second offence, and then for a third offence, a month. The total coughed up by hospitality venues from Manly to Punchbowl is over $55,000. Just down the road from the Garry Owen, in the neighbouring suburb of Balmain, the Unity Hall Hotel suffered similar humiliation after two breaches of public health orders. On the 8th of September, The Unity Hall Hotel received a $5000 fine for not keeping digital records of customers and a lack of social distancing, and then the very next day was slapped with a $10 000 fine and closed for a week. CCTV footage of two birthday parties held in the club upstairs, ‘The Workers’ saw 32 guests mingling, dancing, and drinking without a care in the world.

A FACE FOR THE HATE

On the 9th of September the Unity Hall posted an explanation of the fines on the Balmain community page ‘Balmain Living’, ensuring the 7400 members of the group understood that the safety of their staff and their community was a number one priority. In the comments, Balmain resident Julius Grafton was kind enough to offer some advice to the venue; “Good transparent communications Unity Hall! My suggestion with this kind of messaging is to put a name and face to it. Salut!”. The face and name behind the community post was Jemma McKenzie, a nineteen-year-old bartender and marketing student who works as the Marketing Manager for the Unity Hall Balmain.

IndieNEWS McKenzie was the sole recipient of over fifty hate messages sent to the pub’s Facebook page as the only employee with access. As a first year marketing student, McKenzie was faced with the task of taking on a pack of keyboard warriors who slandered the pub for their disregard of a rapidly spreading virus. McKenzie said the pub owner’s decision to have a birthday party for his daughter in the upstairs venue ‘The Workers’ was a lapse in judgment. People changed the rating of the Unity Hall Hotel on Facebook, saying they would not recommend the venue. When McKenzie investigated the trolls individually, they usually lived in rural NSW or Queensland. She says that following the second fine the community response was not as harsh, many patrons realising that nineteen year old bartenders shouldn’t have to be responsible for telling adults to sit down like children. “You’ve got a whole bunch of sixtyyear-olds trying to use Facebook, and language like LOL or other slang words, but because they don’t know what it means, they can’t use the tone properly. And so it comes across really abusive and really rude,” she said. McKenzie describes the pub demographic as ‘50 plus’ and said staff initially had a hard time getting their patrons to comply with signing in for tracing purposes. People wouldn’t use their full names, leave out contact details or skip the process entirely. McKenzie says there’s been a switch in attitude following the week long closure with patrons now actively teaching themselves how to sign in appropriately. McKenzie also said she’s benefitted from wearing the COVID Marshal Vest when she’s bartending because it forces men who previously tended to be handsy to steer clear and stay 1.5 metres away. She likes going into work knowing she has a little more protection as a female bartender.

WOMEN IN THE WORKPLACE

Women have played a significant role as licensees, housekeepers, cooks and barmaids in Australian pubs throughout history. Women publicans were preferred over men because they could keep a good house, had an ability to control men’s behavior, and were thought to be more impervious to corruption. Clare Wright, historian and author of the book ‘Beyond the Ladies Lounge’ says that the idea that a pub was a male domain is a complete myth. Although Wright has never been to the Garry Owen or the Unity Hall, she has spent time in many pubs across the country, recording oral histories of women who came from generations of female publicans. Wright said she heard stories of empowerment, belonging and

opportunity, ‘fabulous entrepreneurs’ who didn’t have an outlet for their entrepreneurship and instead built themselves an empire. For most of the 19th century and into the 20th, pubs were the center of the township, hosting weddings, funerals, political speeches, council meetings and even acting as the local morgue, holding bodies in the cool room. Before then, pubs were a requirement to accommodate travelers on journeys to form new settlements for the colony, the town consisting only of the pub, usually the only space that was warm and had indoor plumbing, and somewhere to cross the river. For centuries pubs have provided a unique array of community functions and services and have staunchly adapted to economic downturns, law changes, Prohibition, a burgeoning foodie culture, microbreweries, the gambling industry, hipster culture, just to name a few. And this is not the first time that pubs in NSW have been closed under the threat of a virus that no-one understands.

Sometimes the only time men and women talk about their feelings is over a drink at the pub During World War One, when Sydney was overwhelmed by the Spanish Flu, pubs in NSW were shut for almost a month in 1918, putting 10 000 pub-workers immediately out of a job, a further 20, 000 individuals working in theatres and saloons also left to twiddle their thumbs. On the 3rd of March 1920 pubs were open again and across Sydney, a century later on June 1st, a similar sigh of relief was heard as pub-goers returned to adapt to a new normal.

MOURNING THE LOCAL

During the lockdown period of March 23rd to June 1st, people lost important ties to their local community. Bakeries shut up shop, library shelves accumulated dust and newspaper appeared in the windows of a cherished Thai restaurant. But nothing was as devastating as the loss of a local pub. Shirley Fitzgerald, historian and author of ‘Terminus: The pub that Sydney forgot’, believes it feeds into a rosy view of community, that when feelings of community are fractured, a small and traditional pub can provide a space to nourish cravings of intimacy and companionship over the swapping of stories and memories. Historian Clare Wright agrees, saying that there is absolutely no evidence that across Australia, people’s affections for their pubs is waning, and that pubs will continue to adapt to the needs of society

Security footage showing COVID-19 breaches. Photo: NSW Liquor and Gaming

as an incredibly enduring institution. Wright believes pubs are always going to be important because they provide basic social outlets for human beings as inherently social animals. Someone who understands the importance of a yarn over a beer is Matt Henricks, founder of the Facebook group, ‘The Reschs Appreciation Society’. The Facebook group provided a virtual space for the 8600 Resch’s enthusiasts during the March-June lockdown when a simple interaction over a schooner was impossible. Members posted memes, photos and videos of themselves enjoying Resch’s in the community page, many finding solace in their virtual drinking buddies during a time of stress and instability. During this lockdown period Matt said he noticed a nostalgic return to a simpler time through the consumption of old and established beers such as Reschs. Matt said that despite the stereotype of the beer being exclusively consumed by old men, the age group seeing the most growth in the Facebook group is young people aged 20-40. Matt attributes this to a human need to be part of something old, established and bigger than ourselves during a time of crisis.

MORE THAN JUST A BEER

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown period meant that this year many more people have suffered from feelings of loneliness, anxiety and isolation. The Reschs Appreciation Society has donated funds from merchandise to mental health charities such as Men’s Team and Movember. Matt says that although mental health organisations will admonish the consumption of alcohol, sometimes the only time men and women talk about their feelings is over a drink at the pub, during an hour of escapism from the

pressures of daily reality. James Brindley, Managing Director of Lion Beer Australia also recognises the important relationship between Australians and their alcohol. Lion Beer is responsible for 40% of the beer market in Australia, having a relationship with each of the 30,000 licensed venues throughout the country and supplies to pubs, bottles-shops and companies like Coles and Woolworths. When an announcement was made on the 23rd of March that businesses had 24 hours to shut down and cease operation, James said the impacts were devastating, especially for country regions who have suffered through bushfires, floods and now had to shut up shop. Some had financial reserves while others were sent broke. What came next was what James describes as ‘a logistical nightmare’, a search and rescue mission to retrieve 100,000 beer kegs from across the country, each weighing 70kg each, full and unable to be used. Lion Beer gave the venues a credit for their ordered kegs that ended up amounting to $30 million to provide some immediate relief. Although James said it was devastating to lose the pubs, retail liquor went up, offsetting the loss of profits for Lion Beer to 40% for the year. People turned to their local bottle shop in times of intense stress and anxiety over family, friends, finances and employment and James said that customers went for established brands that they trusted to get the job done. And in the hospitality sector, people got resourceful. Pubs started doing takeaway food and beer, filling up a 1L bottle from the taps, and selling it to thirsty locals. It wasn’t the same, but it was something. People also got resourceful in the ways they consumed Continued on page 16 INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

IndieNEWS (Continued from page 17) alcohol, on Facetime, on balconies, on Zoom and in full living rooms as parents and children were reunited in the family home sometimes for the first time in years. But what now?

IN FOR THE LONG HAUL

James Brindley thinks the future of socialisation has inevitably changed. Brindley wonders if more people will continue to drink at home because it’s safe, and what we have become used to. Vicki Fretwell says we’re in for a longer haul than anyone expected. She doesn’t believe we’ll have a vaccine by next year and being realistic, social distancing will be the norm in pubs, bars and clubs for the foreseeable future. In the meantime, Vicki will remain at the Garry Owen, resolutely spraying tables, sanitising glasses, and policing her patrons, clocking off at 4 pm to have a well-earned drink at her local, Five Dock Hotel. Clare Wright believes that in Melbourne where pub-owners have suffered through the longest lockdown in the country, that Melbournians have become used to their captivity and will feel some trepidation

Enjoying a cold beer upstairs at the Garry Owen Hotel. Photo: Olivia Day

to enter a pub again. Wright has spent thirty years traveling to and spending time in pubs across the country and seen the many shifts and changes firsthand. With a cocked eyebrow, Wright remembers the community panic each time a crisis hit the hospitality industry, that this will be the end of pubs. But it certainly hasn’t happened. And the pandemic hasn’t put off

nineteen-year-old Jemma McKenzie from working in hospo. She says it’s a tense environment but she doesn’t dislike it. Pubs continue to present a difficult space to police, with constant movement between tables and the ‘stand up, close together, pissed kind of mindset’ of its patrons, as Jemma describes. But who can blame us? It’s been

a tough year. The devastation of bushfires, drought, floods and COVID-19 means that Australians need somewhere where they can relax and escape from their daily pressures and anxieties, if only for a couple of hours. Talk to any Sydney local, and they’ll smugly tell you why their local pub is better than yours. But it’s not the cheap drinks, great customer service or fancy chef that makes a pub great. Your local pub presents a backdrop for romantic escapades, baby showers, 21st’s, wakes, terrible Christmas parties and dancing pissed with your mates to a live band’s rendition of ‘Mr Brightside’. It’s where life happens. Like a weary, arthritic dog, the pub remains loyal to those that frequent it, through World Wars, Prohibition, lockout laws, Hipster culture, and two pandemics, the pub continues to open its doors. It may have a new coat of paint or two, but the basic premise of your local pub will never change. Pubs have time and time again proved their resilience as well as their place as an essential player in the recovery of our economy. If nothing else, the pub provides a space for us to connect with other humans and share our hopes, dreams, secrets, fears and anxieties. And this is why pubs are forever.

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IndieARTS IPHIGENIA IN SPLOTT

WICKED SISTERS T

he Griffin Theatre Company has launched its we had to work from the beginning of the second closing act for the year, the revenge tragicweek to catch up to where we would normally be comedy Wicked Sisters. working in person from week one. A story about artificial intelligence, the future, “It did make everybody – cast and director – unforgiving competition, and the issues women appreciate the notion that we can be, in normal face in their 50s, Alma De Groen’s Wicked Sisters circumstance, in a room together and viscerally is a brilliantly written piece that rings as true as it connect with each other and the material. Further did when it was first performed in 2002. to that I think we’re each trying to obey to The play will be presented at the COVID distancing, working towards a Seymour Centre’s Reginald Theatre happy medium between intimacy and until December 12, adhering to strict space.” COVID-19 guidelines for staff, When asked her favourite part of audience, and crew. These directing Wicked Sisters, Tass measures will include distanced said, “There are a lot of favourite seating, regular cleaning, hand parts for me. The text – the sanitiser provided on site, fact that it was written so many limited capacity, and the strong years ago and I find it so relevant encouragement of masks. to today’s world – is particularly In an interview with Inner exciting. West Independent, when “It is not a predictable text: the asked about the changes rhythm, pace and shape of it in her directorial role for are unsettling even though Wicked Sisters due to the narrative is set in a COVID-19, director Nadia naturalistic space. I love that Tass said, “To begin bit – it promotes tension. I love with, my first week of working with a small group of rehearsal was done people, a theatre where we’re via Zoom from hotel all invested in creating good quarantine, and I work. And four actors who are found it particularly both enormously talented and difficult not being in committed.” (RBa) the room. Until Dec 12. Seymour “It takes time to find Centre, Cnr City Rd &, the openness in a Cleveland St, Chippendale. relationship that is needed $20-$62+b.f. Tickets & Info: Photo: Brett Boardman in the rehearsal room, and www.griffintheatre.com.au

phigenia In Splott is an acclaimed and highly anticipated play coming to Sydney’s Marrickville this November, presented by Flight Path Theatre. Directed by Lucy Clements and starring Meg Clarke as Effie, this one woman show is not to be missed. Written by Gary Owen, it presents the story of a misunderstood young woman who is given the chance to change her life, inspired by the timeless Greek myth. “Iphigenia In Splott drives home the high price people pay for society’s shortcomings,” the

play boasts a history of glowing reviews by the likes of The Guardian and The New York Times, building traction for its Australian premiere. With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions throughout the Inner West, the play will continue until November 21. For convenience, viewers can also choose to book an online ticket, for which they will be emailed a link to the show on their chosen date. (RBa) Until Nov 21. Flight Path Theatre, 142 Addison Rd, Marrickville. $20-$30+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.flightpaththeatre.org

Hugh Sheridan

HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH POSTPONED

BY JESSI LEWIS The production of Hedwig And The Angry Inch, which was set to open at The Enmore Theatre has been postponed. The decision was made following concerns raised by members of the LGBTQI arts and broader communities in an open letter addressed to Sydney 20

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

Festival, Hedwiginoz and actor Hugh Sheridan. The concerns centred upon the casting of Sheridan to the central role of Hedwig. With the concern being around a cis-gendered man being cast in a role that was described by writer and creator John Cameron Mitchell as being ‘gender queer’. Sent out on Monday, November 18 the open letter, put together by artists Daya Czepanski, Zoe Terakes, Daniielle Alexis and Tyler Ray Hawkins, called for the producers of Hedwig and The Angry Inch to seriously consider their choice in casting Hugh Sheridan in the lead role. “We would like to express our profound sadness and disappointment that trans performers are still fighting for equal opportunities and representation within the film, television, theatre and wider performing arts and the entertainment industry,” the open letter read. “The choice to cast a cisgender male as a transgender

character is offensive and damaging to the trans community, and continues to cause genuine distress and frustration amongst trans and gender nonconforming performers all across Australia. Diversity is vital, and the value of genuine representation for transgender youth cannot be understated. “We are beginning to see change in our industry, but it is clear no effort has been made by Sydney Festival to continue this trajectory with authentic casting. Trans performers have been told for decades by agents, casting directors, and media, that the world will not accept our bodies on screen or stage; that the roles just aren’t there; or that the timing is not right for us.” Since Monday, the open letter has now attracted more than 1700 signatures from individuals from both the creative industries and the LGBTQI communities.

IndieARTS

PICNIC AT HANGING ROCK T

om Wright’s acclaimed adaption of Joan Lindsay’s novel Picnic At Hanging Rock comes to Sydney, having previously played to sell-out seasons in Perth and Melbourne before heading off to Edinburgh and London. The classic story of three private school girls and a teacher who went missing on St Valentine’s Day 1900 at Hanging Rock has mystified a generation of readers. “The novel as written by Joan Lindsay is told in such a way that it seems that she has taken things from history. The characters are so real, her language is so beautiful that you have to think where did this come from? Is it indeed a real story? It’s this mystery that we all want to keep believing is true even though Lindsay has clearly stated that it’s fictional,” explained director, Sahn Millington. One thing that audiences should be aware of is that this is not the movie. There are five actresses on stage,

some playing multiple roles and there are no pan pipes or floaty frocks. “It’s a retelling of the mystery and then a re-enactment of the events that the mystery initiated. It’s a very non-naturalistic piece and the language is evocative. You can hear everything that’s happening in the bush and on the rock. The way Tom Wright has written it is definitely not in that romantic ethereal Peter Weir vein, it’s very much Joan Lindsay’s language.” When asked whether fans of the novel, film or the recent television production would be transfixed by this adaption Millington paused momentarily. “I believe they will. I’m always a realist and I know that there are people who are traditionalists that may not enjoy it as much, but that’s been my challenge and something that I’m very particular about. They can have their own opinion but I want an audience that doesn’t feel like they’ve wasted their time so I believe we’ve created something

that if it’s not what they think, they will at least go away knowing they’ve had an experience.” This production has a young cast, a fresher adaption, and is told differently from the film. Millington hopes that this is something younger audiences will want to come along and watch but believes it’s accessible to all audiences. “I think mature age people who are wrapped up in the film are planning to see it and it’s always been on the back of my mind not to alienate them.” (MMo) Until Dec 19. New Theatre, 542 King St, Newtown. $30-$35+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.newtheatre.org.au

LUKE CLOSE:

PERSPECTIVE AT BOOMALLI

CASULA POWERHOUSE SUMMER SEASON

Photo: Sharon Hickey

n November 18 the Casula Powerhouse will re-emerge from a short hibernation for an explosive summer series of shows, workshops and prizes. Entering the main Turbine Hall visitors step across the Koori Floor, a public artwork by Judy Watson that has just undergone an extensive refurbishment. Gil Farla was a major emerging local artist and her passion will be commemorated with a post-humous solo show My Secret Urban Sanctuary inspired by her garden, its surrounds and many creatures. Local artists will also be represented in the 29th Annual Mil-Pra AECG Exhibition with works across all mediums.

The 23rd Annual Liverpool Art Society Exhibition and art prize celebrates the significance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait artists living in NSW and the ACT. Creative Spark is a six week public program held across various locations for people living with disabilities and this year will focus on design and the making of costumes that will also be documented. A series of after school workshops for kids will run from October 19 to December 7 and adults will be able to learn about artists’ practices and street art. (JMo) Casual Powerhouse. 1 Powerhouse Rd, Casula. Info: www.casulapowerhouse.com

ollowing NAIDOC week Aboriginal and Indigenous art is at the forefront of our minds. Luckily for residents of Sydney’s inner west we don’t have to travel too far to see some of this fantastic art thanks to the Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-operative in Leichhardt. Throughout the rest of November Boomalli will be hosting a solo exhibition entitled Perspective by Luke Close. Luke is a Githabal man and has been an artist for over 30 years. He comes from a large family from Northern NSW and has grown up on his country. Luke’s unique style comes from over 30 years of art practice, after starting to paint in his 30s. Luke’s first painting was a bush scene landscape and he

has continued developing many styles and techniques since his first artwork. Researching the local symbols and line marking helped Luke develop a cultural style of artworks. The human body intrigues him so live drawing has also been added to his portfolio of styles and skills. Despite the many styles, the doorway in has always been his culture. Luke is passionate about his art practice as it connects him to his community and family. Join Close in connecting with our country by visiting Boomalli. (JA) Until Nov 29. Boomalli Aboriginal Artists Co-Operative, 55/59 Flood St, Leichhardt. Info: www.boomalli.com. au/perspective INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

IndieARTS

THE FALLEN ROBINS BY JAMIE APPS s live music slowly returns venues such as Marrickville’s Django Bar are playing an increasingly important role. Particularly for up and coming local bands such as The Fallen Robins, who would typically be busy on the folk music festival circuit all around the country. As Charlotte Thompson explained to the Inner West Independent she and her sisters, Jess and Sarah, would normally have played “five or six festivals” by now during a normal year. However, due to COVID, that has not been the case. Instead they have had to delay the release of the new EP Stupid Little Girls until they could step onto the stage at Django Bar tonight. While releasing the album in the midst of the COVID lockdown was an option, given that the record has been ready to go since March, The Fallen Robins felt they needed a live audience to have the best result. “We weren’t sure if we could be seen online because there are so many bands out there tying to make a name for themselves,” explained Charlotte. “We think we’re at our best in person, which is why we held off until now. So it’s really gratifying to finally be putting this album out.”

CROCODYLUS

BY JAMIE APPS OVID restrictions have impacted every artist in a multitude of different ways. For Sydney band Crocodylus these impacts have been simultaneously “devastating” and “really productive” according to drummer Mikel Salvador. At the beginning of the year Crocodylus were off to a red hot start as they were riding the wave of momentum generated by their European tour alongside The Chats at the end of 2019. Just prior to lockdown Crocodylus were in the midst of a string of sellout shows, including selling out a 550 capacity venue in their home of the Northern Beaches, so when the lockdown came into effect they took it quite hard. “We were gutted,” explained Salvador. “Once we got a taste of touring Europe with The Chats we wanted to get back out there and lineup our own touring. But obviously we couldn’t do that.” While this had them feeling down initially Crocodylus chose not to wallow in their sorrow and instead saw the break away from touring as an opportunity to experiment, expand their influences and record more music. “We went away to a secluded location on a farm to write music and had a really productive trip. We wrote around 16 songs, which now just need to be fleshed out and finalised for our upcoming debut album.” The fact that Crocodylus have built a fan base and toured Europe without releasing a debut record yet is another interesting part

of their story. When asked why they chose to go this route Salvador revealed they were perhaps “scared” to release their debut album. “I guess we were just scared, but I don’t even know why. People see your debut as this big thing but the debut will be followed by another album and then another after that hopefully. So we’re trying not to get too precious about it, but it’s hard not to. Sometimes we let it get to our heads a bit by thinking the debut has to be sick.” For this reason the time away from touring was perhaps more beneficial than they otherwise may realise. For Crocodylus, who Salford says have a unique way of working, this time period allowed them to really experiment and and expand their influences ahead of their debut album’s release. “We have a really interesting way of working where we’ll go through periods of doing nothing and then suddenly we’ll rip off huge chunks of it,” said Salvador. “We’ve started to add synthesisers and samples, which is really cool and something we hadn’t done before, so we’re really excited about it.” Although they are experimenting with a new sound and new influences Salvador assures fans this debut album will remain true to form in that it will be “disgusting, sloppy and grungy.” Nov 21. Oxford Art Factory, 38-46 Oxford St, Darlinghurst. $29.58+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.oxfordartfactory.com

While the group are excited to finally be relaxing the album there was also some trepidation given that we’re coming off the back of COVID lockdowns. Add to that this is their biggest show to date, and first ever ticketed show. “We’ve really thrown ourselves into the deep end,” said Charlotte. “Since this is our first ever ticketed show we already had those doubts about ‘is anyone going to come?’ Then add to that the stress of COVID and wondering whether people will be ready to come out or if they’d prefer to stay home still it was definitely daunting.” Luckily for the band those doubts were quickly squashed when their first show sold out, meaning they needed to add a second later show. Playing at a venue which they love and know intimately as audience members certainly took away some of the anxiety as well. “We’ve seen some great shows at Django over the years and it came highly recommended by some of our friends from the folk circuit... So we’re definitely itching to to get back on stage.” Nov 19, 6pm & 8:30pm. Django Bar at Camelot Lounge, 103 Railway Parade, Marrickville. $27.50-$110+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.camelotlounge.com

DEADLY HEARTS - WALKING TOGETHER

ollowing NAIDOC week it is fitting that we celebrate Indigenous music and culture. Thankfully a number of incredible Australian artists also had a similar thought process and have collaborated on the Deadly Hearts project and the new album, Walking Together. Throughout the 10 track offering artists such as Ziggy Ramo, Miiesha, Isaiah and Stan Walker take well known songs and give them an Indigenous twist. The record includes an array of music genres including hip-hop, jazz, pop and metal all fused together with Indigenous lyrics or instrumentation. Some of the standout tracks on the record are Miiesha’s

INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

take on Neon Moon, originally by Brooks & Dunn, Mitch Tambo’s Indigenous language spin on the classic Absolutely Everybody originally by Vanessa Amorosi. The album closes out with two more incredible variations on Aussie classics in the form of Crowded House’s Don’t Dream It’s Over reworked by Isaiah & Stan Walker, and Midnight Oil’s Beds Are Burning given an Indigenous metal slant by Southeast Desert Metal. This record is familiar but fresh, and perfect introduction to Indigenous music for those unfamiliar with Indigenous languages or styles. (JA) WWW1/2

IndieARTS

ELLIE & ABBIE

(AND ABBIE’S DEAD AUNT) W hen teenage student Allie tells her mother (Marta Dusseldorp) that she’s gay, her deceased Auntie Tara returns from the dead and announces, “Congratulations on coming out – I’m your fairy godmother. Coming out is hard and I have been sent here to help you through it.” Allie has her sights on Abbie a fellow student and hesitantly follows her Aunt’s advice who guides her through every

step of the way. But will it be smooth sailing or will there be hurdles along the way which may jeopardise a happy and fulfilling relationship? There’s something quite special about this award-winning Aussie queer teen rom-com. The film explores the confusion evoked by Allie’s coming to terms with her sexuality and deals with the issues experienced by her mother who dreams of one day having grandchildren.

FREAKY

Light-hearted entertainment devoid of sex or nudity, many may regard this delightful coming of age story (which is appropriate viewing for teenagers) as a chick flick. Funny and poignant at times, the film

his horror/comedy ‘body swap’ film can best be described as a cross between horror flick Scream and Disney’s Freaky Friday and feels like ‘a movie within a movie’. The film commences as a run of the mill slasher flick where four teenagers are brutally murdered by a masked assailant. There’s no humour initially, just a full-on blood fest which will leave audiences questioning how comedy can possibly be instilled in this morbid and horrific Friday The 13th style flick. The dark mood of the film alternates to comedy soon after when the slasher and his intended female victim have a body swap from some ludicrous storyline concerning a mystical dagger. As the graphic murders continue the race is on as there are only 24 hours to revert

conveys the importance of equal rights regardless of sexual persuasion and leaves audiences with two very important messages; being different is special and parents are only human who want the best for their children. (MMo) WWW

the consciousnesses, else the change remains permanent. Freaky is quite a unique slasher film. The body swap aspect to the story provides some comedic relief from the incredible overload of violence, blood, and gore which vastly overshadows the comedy. Vince Vaughn frightens as the slasher also providing laughter when the young blonde teenager’s persona filters through. There are references to many cult horror favourites including The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Shining, Scream, and the Friday The 13th franchises. Not for squeamish audiences and beware! Just when you thought it was all over… (MMo) WWW

BRITISH FILM FESTIVAL W

hile many film festivals continue to be presented virally owing to the ongoing pandemic, the British Film Festival returns to the big screen with extensive COVID-safe procedures in place, screening a program of 20 new releases and three restored classics. Festival Curator Kim Petalas explained there were a couple of films he was hoping to secure that had their international release dates pushed back owing to the pandemic, and that made it impossible for the festival to secure them. “Overall, we are thrilled with both the quality and quantity of this year’s selection. The support from our distribution partners has been quite incredible as they see the benefit their films receive when they are profiled in such a quality festival.”

The anticipated Summerland is a film which should prove a crowdpleaser at the festival. “The film is an uplifting tale of lost love, alternating between the 1920s, 1940s, and 1970s and is a wonderful relationship drama with some emotional twists.” For a good laugh, Petalas highly recommends Then Came You, a charming romantic comedy set amongst the beauty of the Scottish countryside. Attending this festival is the next best thing to travelling to Britain in these uncharted times. “The festival transports you to many beautiful locations and to different periods of time and you are able to escape during this festival to these faraway places in what has been a difficult year.” (MMo)

Until Nov 29. Palace Cinemas. $18-$21+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.britishfilmfestival.com.au

Summerland

KIM’S HOT PICKS BLITHE SPIRIT – Strongest opening night film ever presented. A classic remake and great fun. Pure escapism! AMMONITE – Two powerhouse performances from two brilliant actresses – Kate Winslet & Saoirse Ronan. THE NEST – A clever psychological thriller of matrimonial mind games with the wonderful Jude Law INNER WEST INDEPENDENT NOVEMBER 2020

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