KEEPING IN TOUCH WITH THE COMMUNITY
Independent FORTNIGHTLY COMMUNITY NEWS
22 April 2015
A Z C N A
6 October 2011
2
www.burwoodscene.com.au
NEWS
Volume 09 No.18
NEWS
3
6 October 2011
years of ANZAC 0 0 1 g n i t a r o spirit em m m o C
THE BURWOOD ANZAC DAY CENTENARY COMMEMORATIVE SERVICE WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY, APRIL 25 AT BURWOOD PARK. by Belinda Noonan
THE special one-hour service, that is expected to draw up to 2,000 people, will begin at 6.30am near Burwood’s Memorial Arch. This follows the traditional march by veterans and support organisations from Church Street down Burwood Road, beginning at 6.00am. The iconic arch bears the names of 937 men and 4 women who served in World War I and was unveiled on ANZAC Day in 1923. To commemorate the centenary, a 1.8metre-high bronze statue, which was made in Queensland, will be unveiled during the service. “The new Burwood statue will be unique. As far as we know, there is no other statue of its nature in Australia,” said Club Burwood RSL President Alex Pirie. For those who wish to watch the service on the big screen, Club Burwood will be open from 6am and will also provide buses on a rotational basis from Shaftesbury Road to Burwood Park and back from 5.45am, including making a stop at Burwood Station after the service for those who require it. “After service and statue dedication, Club Burwood RSL is offering a free breakfast to anyone who would like to join us,” said Secretary Colin Hodges. The 2015 service and statue has been a collaborative effort between Burwood RSL and Burwood Council. ANZAC Centenary Special Feature pages 7 to 10
The site where the new bronze statue will stand was inspected by Club Burwood RSL office-bearers and Burwood Mayor, John Faker. (left to right) Alex Pirie (President), Denis Joyce (fmr Vice President), Mayor John Faker and Colin Hodges (Secretary). Photo: Michael Santer
anzac day centenary commemorations
96 Shaftesbury Road Club Burwood - 97 Burwood Rd p. 8741 2888 | 9745 4100 e. info@clubburwood.com.au
6am - Club open for live screening of Centenary Service at Burwood Park 9am - Club open for normal trading 2pm - GIFTS GALORE RAFFLE - over $2,500 worth of prizes to be won & 2 - UP in the Entertainment Dome 8:30pm - FREE ENTERTAINMENT - Aussie Legends plus the Swing Sisters This sensational show celebrates the music of legendary Australian artists such as Cold Chisel, Billy Thorpe, Kylie Minogue, Crowded House, Johnny O’Keefe and INXS. The show also features the songs of wartime sweethearts and the swing band era including The Andrews Sisters, Edith Pilaf, Vera Lyn and more.
Club Burwood RSL is holding a collaborative Anzac Day Centenary Service with Burwood Council at Burwood Park on Saturday 25th April from 6:30am. For more details visit our website - www.clubburwood.com.au
Lest We Forget
2
News
22 April 2015
M
ANY AUSTRALIAN families have World War 1 stories, particularly in this area, where a heavy burden was asked for and answered by men from all walks of life and a few brave women. My family is no exception, and for the ANZAC Centenary I’ve turned this column over to my father, John Coulthard, to tell the story of his uncle at Gallipoli. “William Walsingham Trees, Sgt. Portsmouth Bn. Royal Marine Light infantry – my Uncle Bill, Mum’s brother, went ashore at Anzac Cove, on the morning of 25 April, 1915.
desk By Belinda Noonan
LEST WE FORGET It was not until 52 years later that my mother was able to get him to talk of his war experience. Decades had passed since she had migrated to Australia where discussion about Gallipoli centred
almost exclusively around Australian and New Zealand involvement. Finally, Uncle Bill relented and unlocked the dreadful memories. In 1967 he sent Mum a series of letters and a book ‘Richer Dust’, written by
W.E. Stanton Hope, Lt, Drake Bn, Royal Naval Division. The book, said Bill, might well have been written by himself, such was its detailed description of places and events where he was involved in the Gallipoli campaign. My father read Richer Dust and immediately declared my mother should never read it. The graphic horrors of the trenches of Gallipoli which her brother had endured, was definitely not suitable for the fair sex. Bill’s letters were more matter-of fact. Following is an extract, dealing with the landing. “WE OF THE PORTSMOUTH Bn. landed in support of the
Australians at Gaba Tepe. Two destroyers came alongside our liner Gloucester Castle and over 500 were taken on each. The Liner’s boats were tied to the sides, into which we filled. The destroyers then travelled towards the shore as near as was safe for them. Men nearest the oars took them, a midshipman and two sailors guiding them. We got ashore with minor casualties but suffered heavily soon after. We of the Portsmouth fought alongside the Australians, sometimes intermingled with them at Quinn’s Post, also Pope’s Hill. We had severe fighting for approx 8-10 days in which we
lost over 500 of my battalion killed or wounded. My company commander (Capt E.A.S. Hatton) was killed next to me. We were then relieved by some Bn. of 13th Light Horse, they had a yellow and blue flash on their shoulders.” Uncle Bill led a charmed life. What was left of the Portsmouths was shipped to the British sector at Helles where they were further decimated at the three battles for Krithia. And still he survived, even manning the last trench in the final evacuation. Sgt Bill Trees was the fourth last man to leave the Gallipoli Peninsula.” By John Coulthard
We welcome your Letter to the Editor, which must be supplied with your name, address and telephone number for verification purposes. The publisher takes no responsibility for views expressed in any Letter to the Editor.
Inside
Social activist who overcame bullying
HOMEBUSH JUST SAYIN’ TRADES & SERVICES SPORT
by Belinda Noonan
Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15
An independent fortnightly community newspaper. 100% family owned and operated. Published by Scene Newspapers next issue: Wednesday 6 May 2015 deadline: Wednesday 29 April 2015 Advertising: ads@burwoodscene.com.au Phone: 9715 2700 Fax: 9715 2007 Editorial: editor@burwoodscene.com.au Phone: 9715 2700 Fax: 9715 2007 Post: PO Box A187, Enfield South, NSW 2133 Editor: Belinda Noonan Deputy Editor: Mitchell Jordan mitchell@scenenewspapers.com.au Journalists: Sami Jeong saimi@burwoodscene.com.au Paul Brown paul@burwoodscene.com.au Accounts: Aileen Soria aileens@scenenewspapers.com.au Art Director: Kevin Robinson Sales Director: Robin Eggleton Printed by: Rural Press Burwood Scene is a registered trademark. All material appearing in this newspaper is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced without the consent of the copyright holder. Delivered across four municipalities: Burwood, Strathfield, Canada Bay and Ashfield.
ERIN Chew’s primary school experiences, including racist taunts followed by physical violence, shaped her future as a leader. “I started off as a happy kid, was talkative and enjoyed all the activities in school. At the time, out of 60 kindergarten kids, I was the only one with black hair and slightly slanty eyes,” Erin remembered. “My mum gave me a container of rice and left overs for school. A sixth
sore feet?
grader tipped my lunch on the concrete, with him and his friends making me crawl like a dog and eat my lunch from the ground. This happened on a daily basis until I threw my food in the bin and went hungry all day.” Erin was called “ching chong, ching”, told she didn’t belong in Australia and should go back to China. “I was born in Australia and had no clue where China was. I was sad and confused,” Erin said. Years of school yard bullying continued and Erin never told her parents. Sadly many teachers turned
a blind eye until Year 5 when a school counsellor encouraged Erin to join the debating team. These days, Erin has an Economics degree from UTS, a diploma in Human Resources Management, a certificate in Training and Education, currently teaches at TAFE, works as a Field Officer for Unions NSW and runs her own public relations firm. Erin was also recently appointed as the Young BPW Director for Business and Professional Women, Australia.
Having trouble finding shoes that fit? You should be stepping into…
orthopaedic and comfort specialists
Her story is equally harrowing, uplifting and inspirational. If you want to hear Erin’s story go along to the next BPW Strathfield (Business Professional Women) dinner meeting on Wednesday, May 6 at Club Burwood on Burwood Road at 6.30pm. Ticket price includes two-course meal. Non-members cost $55. Call 0422 053 848, s ee BPW Strat hf ield on Facebook or email bpwstrathfield@gmail.com
Can’t come to us? Then let us come to you. We visit private homes, aged care facilities and hospitals. Call for further information.
Specialists in footwear for arthritis, oedema, diabetes, bunions, orthotics and the more difficult feet to fit OPEN: Monday to Friday 9.30am-4.30pm & first Saturday of the month 9am-12noon
Shop 2/174 Liverpool Road, Enfield | Fax: 9744 5103 Email: enfield@fitwellfootwear.com.au
9744 5854
News
22 April 2015
Saving heritage
3
ADVERTISEMENT
John Sidoti MP Member for Drummoyne
T hank you for your suppor t! I am proud, honoured and humbled
100 Lucas Road, Burwood is currently a boarding house.
established in May 2010, for dealing with potential heritage items under threat and the making of Interim Heritage Orders, whereby only the elected members of Council can initiate an investigation of potential heritage significance. “Council will now proceed with the investigation to ascertain the likely significance of the property to determine whether an Interim Heritage Order may be warranted,” said Cr Faker. “Although not listed as a heritage item, the property is one of the few Californian Bungalows remaining in the area. A heritage investigation will determine whether there is any merit in preserving the property as a heritage item.” The Historical Society’s letter also identified 23 Livingstone Street, Burwood as having potential heritage significance and whilst the property is not considered under threat, it may be dealt with as part of the Heritage Study Review. The investigation is expected to cost up to $3,500.
by Belinda Noonan
THE galloping advance of development in and near Burwood’s CBD is creating pressure on some of the older homes, which are often on large blocks. A development application has been received by Burwood Council which proposes the demolition of the existing boarding house at 100 Lucas Road, Burwood and construction of a two storey dwelling house with basement car parking, and a two-storey boarding house to its rear. A submission has been made by the Burwood and District Historical Society objecting to the demolition of the house on the grounds of its architecture and potential heritage significance, Burwood Mayor John Faker was also contacted by a concerned resident. Currently the property is not heritage listed, nor located within a heritage conservation area. At a recent meeting, Burwood Council decided to invoke a procedure that was
s ’ i l l e n n a M
T GE S GEOR
www.burwoodscene.com.au
GRAN PARKING FOR 300 CARS D O April PENIN (3-HOUR FREE PARKING) 10am-1 G Tues 28
2noo n
7 DAYS SUPEROPEN OPENING SPECIALS ea
Soccer Ball Ham $15.99kg
$ 99
ea
2 and 3 Hour Parking for
300 CARS
ay Ln Railw
PARRAMATTA RD
BURWOOD SCENE ONLINE
8
$ 99
3 Hour FREE Parking
Authorised by John Sidoti MP, 128 Great North Road, Five Dock NSW 2046. This advertisement was produced using parliamentary entitlements.
5
10-12 Pack
M4
Please contact my office or come in: Phone (02) 9713 2999 | Fax (02) 9713 2911 Email drummoyne@parliament.nsw.gov.au | Address 128 Great North Road, Five Dock NSW 2046
$ 99
(280ml)
Uncle Tobys Oats Quick Sachets
2 Hour FREE Parking
for our community.- John Sidoti MP
20-Pack Varieties
$ 00
3
I will continue to work hard
Smith’s Multi Pack Chips
Cup of Campos Regular Coffee
2
by the endorsement you’ve given me.
M4
Concord Rd Exit
kg
Chinese Vegetables
(3 BUNCHES)
2
$ 50
Sanitarium Up & Go
Heinz Classic Soup 535g Varieties
3 x 250ml
2
1
$ 99
$ 69
Provolone Cheese
Sunrice Jasmine Rice
ea
20kg
$24.99kg
16
$
99
kg
New Season Mandarins PER NET
2
$ 99
kg
ea
25
$
99
ea
Chestnuts PER NET
4
$ 99
kg
– W E E K LY S P E C I A L S U N T I L W E D N E S DAY 2 9 A P R I L –
OPEN 7 DAYS • Mon-Tues-Wed-Fri 6am-8pm • Thursday 8am-9pm • Weekend 7am-8pm
3 GEORGE STREET, NORTH STRATHFIELD (The Bakehouse Quarter)
9764 3333 info@mannellis.com.au
4
news YOUR News
22 April 2015
M AY O R ’ S M E S S A G E
FROM BURWOOD COUNCIL
Follow me on Twitter: @johnfaker
Our local community will come together this Anzac Day
Commemorating our Anzacs At this year’s service, we will be unveiling
a memorial sculpture to commemorate this important centenary event.
from the area who enlisted to serve from 1914-1918.
such tragic yet defining moments in our nation’s young history.
The sculpture was commissioned by the Burwood Anzac Centenary Years Commemorative Service Committee, Burwood Council and Burwood RSL in honour of the 937 men and 4 women
Watching over the Burwood Memorial Arch, the sculpture will become a permanent symbol for our local heroes and their stories of courage, endurance and mateship which emerged from
I encourage you to join us at our Dawn Service this Anzac Day as we honour the lives of our local heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation’s freedom.
Remembering J our heroes this Anzac Day
oin us in Burwood Park this Anzac Day as we mark the centenary of the landing at Gallipoli at our Dawn Service.
C O N TA C T S
Date: Saturday 25, April Time: 6am march for 6.30am service Location: Burwood Park
C R J O H N FA K E R (Mayor) 9911 9916 mayor@burwood.nsw.gov.au C R TO N Y D O U E I H I
0437 970 499 tony.doueihi@burwood.nsw.gov.au
C R S A L LY D E A N S
C R L E S L E Y F U R N E AU X - CO O K
Have your say on Local Government reforms
T
he NSW Government has announced one of the most significant reform proposals in our State’s history with the intention to reduce the number of Sydney
C R J U S T I N TAU N TO N
0408 227 826 lesley.furneaux-cook@burwood.nsw. gov.au
0488 083 108 justin.taunton@burwood.nsw.gov.au
CR GEORGE MANNAH
0425 691 838 ernest.wong@burwood.nsw.gov.au
0448 133 396 george.mannah@burwood.nsw.gov.au
CR ERNEST WONG
0424 022 627 sally.deans@burwood.nsw.gov.au
Burwood Council, Level 2, 1–17 Elsie Street, Burwood NSW 2134
9911 9911 www.burwood.nsw.gov.au
MEETINGS
T
his Anzac Day we will gather in front of the iconic Burwood Memorial Arch at sunrise to mark one hundred years since the landing of the First Australian Imperial Force in Gallipoli forming the start of the Anzac Legend.
Metropolitan councils from 41 to 18. Please visit our website to have your say or find out more on how these reforms will impact Burwood’s future.
• Council Meeting 27 April at 6pm in Council Chambers
News
22 April 2015
Café au lait at IGA Something special in the water for Parramatta River by Mitchell Jordan
(Left to right): Dean Brown (Grocery Manager), Tracey Grant (General Manager) and Tony Michael take a break after recently opening Manelli’s IGA at North Strathfield. by Belinda Noonan
A NEW IGA has opened on George Street in The Bakehouse Quarter at North Strathfield and it’s not your usual, run-of-the-mill supermarket. Un d e r a fou r- s t rong management team, Manelli’s IGA has all the convenience and personal touch that has come to define the expanding brand, with added extras such as a full
café with a barista and indoor/ outdoor seating. The specialty cheese section is fully stocked with over 30 choices from around the world, and if you want more international flavour, it’s worth a browse through the Continental Delicatessen and Groceries section, which includes a dizzying array of goods from across eastern and western Europe, Greece, Russia, the
Middle East, New Zealand and of course, home grown Aussie. Along with fresh produce directly from Sydney Markets, all the regular grocery items are in wide, easy to locate aisles. “It’s about enjoying the shopping experience and having choice,” says Store Manager Tony Nassif. “The café is the first for IGA in Sydney. It’s welcoming, spacious and stocked with wonderful treats.”
A SWIMMABLE Parramatta River is not only possible but on the way, with a campaign dedicated to bringing the river and surrounding creeks back to its former glory. The Parramatta River and its catchment spans 266 square kilometres, with over 750,000 people from 13 local government areas living within its catchment area. Up until the 1950s, it was still used for swimming. There are some spots that remain swimmable at times, but most are either no longer swimmable due to poor water quality or lack of appropriate infrastructure. The initiative, Our Living River, is lead by the Parramatta River Catchment Group, a coalition of 14 councils and agencies, including Burwood, Ashfield, Canada Bay and Strathfield councils, with the mission of bringing access to a swimmable river to all residents in the west. Drawing inspiration from international cleanup projects such as Boston’s Charles River and London’s The River Thames, the initiative hopes to make Parramatta River swimmable by 2025. Leichardt councillor and member of Our
Living River, Frank Breen, believes it is achievable. “It’s a big job, but overseas examples show that it can be done,” he told Burwood Scene. “2025 is a realistic date and we’ve had professional advice that it can be done.” Cr Breen has experienced a strong enthusiasm for the project from Sydney-siders, many of whom have fond memories of the river in better days. “A lot of people remember swimming in it in places before,” he said. “I remember swimming in Parramatta Lake and the river as it flowed through Parramatta Park, and in more recent times I’ve been swimming in the Dawn Fraser baths in Balmain.” Dawn Fraser has come on board as an ambassador for the project, along with the Wests Tigers, who visit Cabarita Pool, their local swimming and rehabilitation centre, which uses treated river water. According to Cr Breen, there has been a school of stingrays spotted in the Dawn Fraser pool, but this is not cause for alarm. “These are the sorts of things that will happen as biodiversity improves,” he said. “It’s a matter of monitoring and taking care of situations that may arise. We’re using
5
Sydney’s beaches as an example of what will be done. They are patrolled and measures are taken to mitigate risks, and it would be the same with the river swimming spots. People would be responsible for monitoring swimming places and there will be netting in place so sharks can’t get in.” Cr Breen has also been heartened by the collective efforts of Sydney councils. “There’s a lot of good will and people are working very cooperatively,” he said. “There’s a feeling of common purpose.” Burwood Mayor, John Faker, is supportive of the project but also warned residents of the dangers of polluting drains. “It’ll be great to one day be able to grab your cossies and have a swim in the river so close to home, but in order for this to occur, we must remember not to pollute our local drains, as they form part of the Parramatta River catchment,” he said. A family fun day to celebrate the river and its future was held in March at Bayview Park, Concord. Our Living River is currently organising its next event, Source to Sea Journey, in May where people can kayak and down the river. For details see www. ourlivingriver.com.au
6
News
22 April 2015
MUIRS HOLDEN DEMONSTRATOR
CLEARANCE ON NOW Bring your trade-in. We will pay top dollar.
Same Day Finance Approval*
HOLDEN BARINA SPARK
Manual, power windows, air conditioning, CD player, Bluetooth, alloys, 6 airbags. sn34765
$12,990 DRIVE AWAY
HOLDEN COMMODORE CALAIS V WAGON
HOLDEN TRAX LTZ
18” alloys, automatic, electric sunroof, Bluetooth, 6 airbags, traction control. sn34747
$30,990 DRIVE AWAY
HOLDEN COLORADO LT CREW CAB
Automatic, 5 Star ANCAP, 19” alloys, sat nav, MyLink, rear camera, ESC, traction control. sn34799
Bluetooth, 5 Star ANCAP, automatic, 16” alloys, dual airbags, curtain airbags, air conditioning, power windows. sn34753
HOLDEN COMMODORE SV6 UTE
HOLDEN COLORADO LS CAB CHASSIS 4X2
$47,490 DRIVE AWAY
Automatic, 5 Star ANCAP, 18” alloys, MyLink, rear camera, blind spot alert, 6 airbags. sn34815
$33,490 DRIVE AWAY
Muirs *To approved applicants. Offers end 30 April 2015.
$39,990 DRIVE AWAY
Automatic, turbo diesel, Bluetooth, power windows, keyless entry, air conditioning. sn34802
$32,990 DRIVE AWAY
HOLDEN COMMODORE SS
Manual, 18” alloys, MyLink, blind spot alert, rear camera, lip spoiler, Bluetooth, climate air. sn34819
$42,490 DRIVE AWAY
HOLDEN CAPTIVA 5 LTZ
Automatic, 19” alloys, 6 airbags, leather appointed seats, electric sunroof, Bluetooth. sn34775
$29,990 DRIVE AWAY
HOLDEN COMMODORE SS-V REDLINE
Manual, V8, 19” alloys, MyLink, sat nav, Brembo brakes, Bluetooth, DVD. sn34663
$53,990 DRIVE AWAY
252 Parramatta Road, Ashfield. 9798 8888 DL1119
15194
ANZAC
7
SATURDAY 25 APRIL
Like father, like son, like Leslie by Mitchell Jordan
FATHER and son Leslie Furneaux-Cook senior and junior have more in common than just their names. The grandfather and father of Bur wood Community Voice’s Lesley Furneaux-Cook were both part of World War 1 and 2. Leslie senior, who left England to live in Australia and perform as a tap dancer, enlisted in World War 1 and was part of the third Battalion, which fought in the trenches notably in the Battles of Ypres and the Somme. Mu ch of w hat C r Furneaux-Cook has learnt of her grandfather’s time in the war was gleaned through his contribution to a book by Strathfield resident and third Battalion soldier, Eric Wren. “There was no sitting on the couch and relaying the glories of the war – that’s why he wasn’t so keen when his two sons were chafing at the bit to get involved in World War II,” Cr Furneaux-Cook said. In the book, Randwick to Hargicourt, History of the 3rd Battalion AIF, Leslie wrote of an experience that was harrowing and one that possibly also saved his life: “I managed to get the first chap on my shoulder and half running, half stumbling, made a dash for the road. I was probably more than half way when a shell exploded directly in front of us blowing my unfortunate burden clean out of my grasp and suspending portion of his body in the tree. I received the balance of the shell in both legs and the shock had the effect of making me run all the faster but unfortunately in the wrong direction. When I ultimately collapsed I found I had been
running towards the advancing Fritzies … They passed very close to me and one half tuned me over with his foot but seeing that I was in such a frightful mess, probably thought I was done …” Living to tell the tale, Leslie returned home with the shrapnel as a souvenir. Receiving treatment in hospital, he met Heather Chesher, a volunteer nurse from the rural town of Eugowra whom he would later marry and start a family with in Archer Street, Concord where they remained until their deaths some 60 years later. “My grandmother Heather found the love of her life, so in that way it [war] was rewarding but she had her darling brothers in the war which was also a great concern to her,” said Cr Furneaux-Cook. The couple had two sons, Donald and Leslie (father of Cr Furneaux-Cook) who served in the Paratroopers during World War 2 and did one mission with Z force. In World War II, Leslie senior joined up as part of the Pay Corp and was sent to Greece and the Middle East. With her husband and two sons all off at war, Heather was left waiting to see if her men would return home. According to Cr FurneauxCook, fighting in the war was not something “particularly encouraged” by her grandfather. She believes that Leslie junior and Donald did it “out of a sense that this is what one would do.” “My grandfather wrote a letter saying he didn’t want his boys to join up at all, but as the war dragged on and they came of age there was little he could do to stop them,” said Cr FurneauxCook. Both World Wars changed Cr
Cr Lesley Furneaux-Cooks looks through her family archives.
Furneaux-Cook’s grandfather and father in different ways. “When my grandfather died he had a union jack draped over his coffin, and when my father died he had the Australian flag,” she said. “There was a real identity shift in that period. I have to agree with [Paul] Keating that World War II was really nation defining because there was a real sense of the need to protect Australia.” Cr Furneaux-Cook describes ANZAC Day as “a big day in the family calendar.” Although she believes the 100-year anniversary is an important time to reflect on the past, she also hopes that Australians remember and think about what is currently happening. “The RSL was set up to look after the needs of World War 1 veterans and did a fantastic job which has expanded but that [help] is a constant need,” she said. “Soldiers who come back from campaigns that they’ve recently been called upon need
our continued support and we must remember that the box is not tied up – these are people who are coming out of or going into conflict zones. They need our support.”
Going off to fight might have passed down from father to son, but Cr Furneaux-Cook does not see any parallel between her tireless work fighting for local
residents and her family’s war efforts. “Sometimes council is a bit like being in the trenches, but I think that connection is going too far!”
AMONG local events to observe the ANZAC Centenary is a free exhibition at Sydney Olympic Park’s historic Newington Armory, ‘Their names upon Gallipoli’ to commemorate the landing on the shores of Turkey’s Dardanelles peninsular. The major audio-visual exhibition, which was officially opened on March 31 by Dr Şeyda Hanbay Arca, Turkish Consul General in Sydney, is from the perspectives of both sides of the conflict. Featuring contemporary large format images of Gallipoli battle sites, with video and sound installations that draw on letters and recollections of combatants
from both sides of the Great War, Their names upon Gallipoli is assembled by renowned Australian photographic artist, Kurt Sorensen. A moving and sombre remembrance of the Gallipoli landing 100 years ago, Their names upon Gallipoli acknowledges one of the most significant events of Australia’s history – the importance of which is shared by all the nations involved including the Turkish diaspora, many of whom live near Sydney Olympic Park. Excerpts feature the voices of direct descendants of Anzac and Turkish personnel reading their
relative’s letters and recalling events that were written and seen on the Gallipoli battlefields. The exhibition is being housed in the former Powder Magazine building within the historic Newington Armory precinct, particularly apt as the Armory supported the Australian Expeditionary Forces during World War I. ‘Their names upon Gallipoli’ forms a significant part of New South Wales’ ANZAC Centenary commemorations and is open every Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 4pm until June 14, 2015. Entry is free.
Their names upon Gallipoli
8
22 April 2015
ANZAC SATURDAY 25 APRIL
Legendary toss of Sculpture for Aboriginal and Torres Strait the coins Islander diggers by Mitchell Jordan
IT’S a deceptively simple game, but the history of two-up – Australia’s best-loved form of gambling – is a little more complex. As iconic as the proverbial meat pie and Holden car, two-up is – on the surface – as simple as throwing two coins in the air. Except that there’s more. No one knows exactly when or how two-up started, with evidence of the game dating back to 1798. According to M. G. Heuston, who served with 2/12th Commando Squadron during the Second World War, the game needed a flat area marked by an 18 or 20 foot radius circle in the dirt. Before the game starts, players bet on whether the two coins will fall with both heads up (“heads”), both tails down (“tailed them”), or one head and a tail (“odds”). With this business sorted, the “boxer” managing the game calls: “Come in spinner!” As the men stand around the area, a “spinner” places two coins or pennies onto a flat board, referred to as either a “kip” or “paddle” into
the air. Among the other unique language used while playing is “Cockatoo”, which was a code word for the law or police. A number of two-up “schools” were popular in Australia, escaping the eyes of the authority – or cockatoos. Now, it is well known that playing the game outside of ANZAC Day is illegal anywhere other than in the casinos. Unlike other forms of gambling, two-up does not come with the same negative connotations. Indeed, former Premier of NSW, Bob Carr told the NSW Legislative Assembly that: “One of the charities most involved in problem gambling, the Wesley Community Legal Service, a body dealing with problem gamblers, has confirmed it has never encountered a problem gambler addicted to two-up. That is an interesting bit of trivia for everyone to take home with them.”
Interactive artwork FIVE leading artists from Europe and Australia have created a 120m floating artwork called Nomanslanding; a FREE, interactive and thought-provoking installation to commemorate the Centenary of ANZAC. Initiated by Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority the Nomanslanding installation made its world-debut on April 2 on Cockle Bay, where it will remain on display until May 3 before being moved to the Merchant City Festival in Scotland and Germany’s prestigious Ruhrtriennale Festival of Arts. Nomanslanding draws on the maritime military heritage of three urban waterways – Darling Harbour in Sydney, the Clyde River in Glasgow and the former Eisenbahnhafen in Duisburg Ruhrort, Germany.
Featuring a pair of floating, extendable walkways, reminiscent of early 20th century naval pontoon bridges, visitors will approach the installation from opposing shores across the water, in an unfamiliar no man’s land, to arrive in a dome structure in the middle of the bay. NOMANSLANDING AT DARLING HARBOUR What: World-f irst 120m interactive floating artwork installation on Cockle Bay, and public program of events commemorating the Centenary of ANZAC. Where: Darling Harbour, Cockle Bay (entry near Dockside Pavilion and the Imax). When: Until 3 May 2015, daily from 11am, with final session at 7pm. Cost: Free
GIANT bullets and shell casings of marble and steel have been unveiled in Hyde Park as a tribute to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander service men and women, ahead of next month’s Anzac Centenary. Yininmadyemi – Thou didst let fall, by Aboriginal artist Tony Albert, features four seven-metre tall, 1.5-tonne bullets and three fallen shells to represent the diggers who returned to Australia and the ones who lost their lives. Mr Albert, winner of last year’s Basil Sellers Art Prize and the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Award, said he wanted to thank everyone who had worked over the past two years to make this sculpture a reality. “It has been an honour and a privilege to work with the Indigenous community on this incredibly important monument,” Mr Albert said. “Yininmadyemi is for all our brave service men and women, who fought for this country before even being recognised as citizens.” Mr Albert named the artwork as a reminder of how his
F
grandfather and fellow service people were treated differently to their white comrades after the war. He said he chose the confronting image of the bullet “as it is a universal signifier for conflict”. Kudjula man, Air Force Indigenous Elder and RAAF officer of 23 years, Harry Allie, said Tony Albert’s artwork captured him both visually and emotionally. “It relates to the many stories that have been passed down through time of the sacrifices and the loyal service that the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander servicemen and servicewomen made to defend this country,” Mr Allie said. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people served Australia from before the Boer War. But when they returned from the battlefield they were still denied the right to vote until the 1960s and weren’t counted in the Census until 1969. Mayor Clover Moore said it was time for them to receive the lasting recognition they deserved, and for all Australians to come toget her and
The “Digger.”
IRST, a man, a fighter; lastly a soldier–a soldier of no mean order. Bred in the hills, brought up in an atmosphere of bush forest, bridle track, creek or plain; keeneyed, confident and self-possessed, living in an environment wherein he alone can appreciate the glories of his native land; assuming a responsibility for it which makes itself manifest to the utmost, when his country is caught up in the vortex of a World War, and when the Mother Country is calling out across the Empire for her men to come and fight. Then came the “Auasy.” At first they knew him as “Cobber,” and “Cobber” still he is, but, of a verity, much life in mud and dirt have ingrained and developed in him the same characteristics as are displayed by the very fauna of his
Yininmadyemi – Thou didst let fall with artist Tony Albert and Mayor Clover Moore in Hyde Park South, near the Anzac Memorial.
acknowledge their commitment and sacrifice. “This is a striking and powerful work that not only evokes the reality of war, but is sure to stir strong emotions to those who come and pay their respects,” she said. The $500,000 sculpture was commissioned by the City of Sydney as part of its Eora Journey program celebrating
native bush. He bounds like the very finest “roo” that ever streaked across the clearing, digs in in a way that would put the proudest wombat to shame; and, withal, shoots, when he has learnt how to work the ‘regulation bundook,” in a way that would turn our old friend “Buffalo Bill” green (as the very grass of his native prairie) with envy. Thus we see him, displayed at the outset in his working togs–the man and the fighter. But what of his “glad rags”? Truly he joined up in his Sunday best–some didn’t though, we recollect. They gave him “blueys,” for he had not qualified as a soldier of the line … yet. Soon, however, very soon, they gave him his uniform, better known to Billjim as “glad rags,” much to the delight of his girl pals, as he turned up in the main street on Friday nights–he was surely a
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and history. Yininmadyemi is the third to be commissioned under Eora Journey. The previous two works are Reko Rennie’s Welcome to Redfern, which he created with the help of local young people, and Nicole Foreshew’s belong to all yet to none 3 2012, which was projected onto the Australian Museum in 2013.
An excerpt from the book HOMEWARD soldier now in every sense of the term, to be numbered among the best of such. He was soon absorbed into the vastness of never-ending monotony, of toil, blood, thunder and mud– then he earned his name of “Digger.” Now, many have had to cry “Time,” a breather for a space; they have learnt the noble game, and now, a little tired of it, leave the new chums to carry on till they get their second wind. For many a “digger” the glory of the game has faded. Once again he shall return to the bush land and the bridle track, and–who knows?– we may find him digging in out there on the plains, or dreaming– on those clear starry nights, by the stream where he first learnt he was a “digger”–of the hells, the joys of France–now but a distant memory.
-R. G. K.
22 April 2015
9
Commemorating 100 years of ANZAC spirit
Following in father’s footsteps to Gallipoli by Mitchell Jordan
WHEN Maureen Pendergast’s father Harry signed up for World War 1, he thought it would be just a short tenure. Harry Grady, who came to Australia from Manchester, England in 1913 was out of work. Harry and his mate saw going to war as a means of being fed and clothed, which they assumed would last until that Christmas. Maureen’s father, who was number 186 in the first battalion, was “pretty early” to join. In fact, he even signed up twice when his mate was rejected because of his teeth. “The second time, dad pretended to be his mate. Back in those days you got off the ship and could be anyone you liked,” Maureen said. Harry completed his training and was back on a ship and arrived at the Gallipoli landing in the afternoon. The fortuitous timing is something which Maureen has always felt thankful for. “It was lucky for me – otherwise I might not be here,” the Croydon resident admitted. For three weeks Harry remained in Gallipoli until he suffered a fall, resulting in a hernia. Deemed unfit to continue his duties, Harry returned to Australia before signing up again in 1917 as a member of the Six Field Ambulance where he served in France as a stretcher barer. Harry stayed overseas until the end of the World War 1. Back in Australia with a wife and child, he – like many war veterans – did not speak much
about what he had seen and done. “It wasn’t something he really talked about,” Maureen said. “I think a lot of things affected him – he was a terrific father but he could be quite a sad person. I can only remember him telling us little things like marching and training in Egypt while the locals followed them and said, ‘Cake! Cairo!’” Another memorable tale was that of Harry’s mate who signed up with him and was shot in the hand by a Turkish soldier when he arrived at Gallipoli, losing some of his fingers. “He [the mate] always said that if he met the Turk he’d kiss him for getting him out of Gallipoli,” Maureen said. At an ANZAC reunion in the 1950s, a Turkish soldier was told of the story and introduced himself to Harry, pretending to be the man who shot his friend. To Maureen’s surprise, her father made good on his mate’s promise.
“It was a bit embarrassing for a guy to kiss another guy back then, but dad told us the story of how he did it,” Maureen recalled. Harry went on to work as a taxi driver before passing away in 1960 when Maureen was only 15 years old. “A lot of my memories of him are of his illness and spending time with him in Concord Hospital where he needed a lot of care,” she said. Today, 70-year-old Maureen thinks of her father’s brave sacrifice with each ANZAC Day and is confident that others – especially young Australians – will continue to keep the past alive. “I see lots of school children at the Five Dock services. I think it’s still held in high regard,” she said. Now a grandmother, Maureen has recently bought a miniature set of her father’s medals for her two-year-old granddaughter who lives in Ashfield.
Left: Maureen Pendergast, daughter of Gallipoli ANZAC Harry Herbert Grady, with his medals and hat pin. Centre: The only known image of Harry Grady [centre (3)], taken in France, Picardie, Somme Photo: Australian War Memorial website Cappy on August 29, 1918 during Harry’s second stint. Right: Harry’s WWI uniform insignia. The “bullet” pictured left, has a pencil inside and was part of a package sent to the troops by Queen Alexandria as they fought for ‘King and Empire’.
Along with her son, Adam, Maureen went to Gallipoli for the ninetieth ANZAC anniversary, which proved to be an emotional and moving experience, albeit one that also left her with a smile. “When we got out of the coach I slipped and fell, but it made me think of my father and how he’d done the same thing here,” she laughed. “I had a sore rear-end for days but it actually made me feel really good. People couldn’t understand why I started to laugh.” It will be a proud moment for Maureen on April 25 when she will wear her father’s medal and take part in the Burwood ANZAC Commemorative march.
ANZAC Centenary grants
FOUR grants, totalling $100,700 have been approved for three existing war memorials to be restored and one new memorial to be erected across the Reid electorate under the Australian Government’s Anzac Centenary Local Grants Program. “The Anzac Centenary is the most significant commemorative period in this country’s history, with many significant historical events being commemorated from 2014-2018 honouring the servicemen and women who served during World War I,” Member for Reid Craig Laundy said. The Local Grants Program has received more than 1,700 applications across the nation. Under the program the three
memorials to be restored include Davey Square in Homebush ($36,707), Concord War Memorial Precinct in Queen Elizabeth Park ($38,600) and Concord Public School Honour Board and Stone Memorial ($3,913). A new Davey S quare Reserve Memorial Wall will be constructed at a cost of $21,500 to display war plaques from the former Homebush-Strathfield RSL Sub Branch, which have been in storage for a number of years. “Congratulations to the successful applicants, and I look forward to seeing the work undertaken and revealed in coming weeks and months,” Mr Laundy said.
ADVERTISEMENT
25th April, from 2pm
ANZAC Commemorating 100 years
LOCAL S ERVICES Saturday 25th April Burwood Park – Burwood RSL 6.30am Burwood RSL Club/Sub Branch/ Council joint Centenary Service 10.20am Complimentary breakfast, Burwood RSL Club
$25
Adults
Lucky Door
Prize
$5
Mothers Day Buffet
*Kids
Sunday 10th May Roast Beef, Lamb, Pork, Sides & Desert. Drink on Arrival *Kids Meal - Lasagne and Desert
Bookings Essential 02 9642 2346
Auburn Town Hall – Auburn RSL 5.00am Dawn Service, Auburn Town Hall 5.00am
Drummoyne RSL 5.45am Service of Commemoration, Centenary of ANZAC, Cenotaph in Marlborough St Club Five Dock RSL 12.00pm 2 Course Luncheon, Club Five Dock RSL ($30pp) 1.00pm
Live broadcast of the Gallipoli Dawn Service and Lone Pine Memorial Service at the Auburn Gallipoli Mosque
Two Up in Function Room, Club Five Dock RSL
Lest we forget
CRAIG LAUNDY Federal Member for Reid Phone 02 9715 7444 Email craig.laundy.mp@aph.gov.au Authorised by C. Laundy MP, 72 Burwood Road, Burwood NSW 2134.
mp
ANZAC
10
22 April 2015
Rise of the RSL: Support group to social hub NeWS
22 May 2013
5
Xrytrytr rytrytrytrt ryrytrytr by Saimi Jeong
A HUNDRED YEARS AGO, what is now Ashfield Public School was an open-air skating rink, where local men who had come back from World War I would gather. From 1918, as more veteran soldiers banded together, the School of Arts offered a room above Ashfield Library, where meetings were held until 1945. Attendance at the meetings spiked again after World War II and the group went in search for both a place to call their own and for the money to make it happen, eventually raising enough to get the rest on loan. In 1955, the first stage of the current Ashfield RSL building on Liverpool Road was completed. Bob Batty, operations officer at RSL NSW, says the Returned Services League formed over the years when soldiers were returning from Gallipolli, drawn together through shared pain and vulnerability. “They formed together to look after each other,” Mr Batty says.
“These men were wounded, sick, injured and in a bad way, and no one was looking after them. “They came together because they were a stronger voice as a collective than as individuals. They formed state associations and eventually, it became federal.” The Burwood sub-branch of the RSL was also formed in 1918, after an organiser from its Sydney office convinced local returned soldiers to unite in a bid to get full benefits for war veterans. A room above the shop front for Heighway & Higgs Estate Agents and a hall on George Street, Burwood, served as their meeting places until 1921, when they got their first permanent space at 23 Belmore Street. By 1948, the next generation was coming home from war. As the membership expanded, new committees were created for activities including billiards, snooker, cricket and football. The RSL was initially formed to provide support where there was none available to people returning from war with physical and mental scars, to help their families and the families of dead diggers. Since then, RSL clubs have grown and spread throughout Australia, with almost 40,800 members in 370 sub-branches across NSW.
Sydney is home to over half of the state’s members, at 21,000, within 131 sub-branches. The Burwood sub-branch, in need of more space for its growing membership, bought its present building at 96 Shaftesbury Road for $16,000, which became Club Burwood RSL in 1950. Within a year, operations were clearly divided between the Burwood RSL sub-branch, responsible for policies, and Club Limited, in charge of social activities. The first year also saw the establishment of the Burwood Digger’s Bowling Club and the laying of the bowling green. In 2002, Club Burwood RSL took over management of West Harbour Rugby Union Football Club and in 2006, a second Club Burwood was opened. Croydon Park Club has since opened under the same banner. Colin Hodges, Honorary Secretary of the Burwood RSL sub-branch, says it’s important for the original function of RSLs to stay relevant, to help returned service people cope with post-traumatic stress disorder. “We’ve got our boys still fighting over in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of East Timor doing relief work,” Mr Hodges says. “The club is a point for them to get welfare and assistance in times of need. It’s a place for them to connect.”
southern Cross students and members from strathfield Men’s shed take a break – on their own benches outside the Burwood Community Centre.
Students set the bench mark at Burwood Park
The Ashfield sub-branch club, in order resulted in the Ashfield Club that exists southeRN Cross Catholic to be involved in this project. today. to accommodate itsVocational growth inCollege members, students have The students and men’s shed Mr Hodges says did the arelevance the members fantastic of job,” left their between mark in Burwood Park, drew up and built extensions 1958 new benches table said Burwood mayor, needs to be maintained forCr theJohn next to 1962, and again ininstalling 1981, adding a bistro, andRSL settings outside the Burwood Faker. project does generation “to “This understand whatmore their dining room and a Park new foyer. than students valuable Community Centre.forefathers, theteach diggers, went through”. and and coordinated practical skills, it allows them Further renovationssupported in 1990, 1992 Daya contribution makes sure the to make to our by Burwood Council, year“ANZAC 12 extensions built inconstruction 2011, including thehavesignificance is community maintained, and and engage that we students been local workinggaming with the strathfield withAs elder addition of a new outdoor area, never forget. theyresidents.” say, lest we forget.” men’s shed, to build fittings for local facilities including the enfield aquatic Centre and Burwood Park Community Centre. “Burwood Council is proud
Traditional names make a comeback Xrytryryrytry Photo:
360
by Mitchell Jordan
MOVE over North West, Apple and Blanket, parents across Australia are returning to traditional baby names in droves.
According to research from McCrindle, the ‘hundred-year return’ has meant that the top baby names of today were also in the top names of a century ago, while names of a few decades ago have fallen out
of favour. In 2013, Oliver and Charlotte were ranked as the number one names for boys and girls respectively. The former remains a significant example of the ‘hundred-year’ return, having
The new installation is one of numerous major upgrades to Burwood Park which include the proposed multi-purpose stage structure, new playground and footpath upgrades.
ranked second overall in NSW Epponnee-Raelene Kathleen in the 1910s and ranking in top Darlene Charlene Craig). place again in NSW from 2009 “Some parents who a chose BecoMe BuRWooD SceNe onwards. those names do regret it,” FaceBook FaN oR FolloW sheoN hadtWItteR uS Erin Mayo, editor of Mother Mayo said, adding that called L-a & Baby magazine, agrees that even heard of a child @BurwoodScene this year’s 100th anniversary (pronounced “Ladasha.”) “Kids may even change of the ANZACs may be a contributing factor to the push the name themselves later, but thankfully they are not towards the past. “This year in particular we necessarily a trend.” Subversion is also popular. probably will see a nostalgia for “Parents are going for the 100 years, but I also think a lot of parents are choosing baby traditional names with Kelly McKenna with her names based on an affection for non-traditional spelling,” Mayo daughter Mckinley. their grandparents and great said. grandparents,” she said. “For example, we’re seeing what someone else has got,” Wacky kids names have been Jackson spelt as Jaxon. Parents Kelly explained. are putting their own stamp auspiced on common since the seventies, Home and Community Podiatry Service, by Burwood “We wanted Council, something these names. ” even prompting NewisZealand’s for residents of the Ashfield, Burwood, Canada Bay, d i f f e r e nCanterbury, t, but not O n e e x a m p l e i s Department of Internal Affairs Leichhardt, Marrickville and Strathfield Local Government” Areas. out-there-crazy. to prevent parents from calling mother-of-one, Kelly McKenna, aim to provide a comprehensive, and flexible who last year named her babyresponsive Currently five months their children everythingWe from podiatry service for the Home and Community Care target whichtwo, Mckinley. Finding a girl’s name Lucifer through to /, though pregnant with group baby number frail aged, people with and their carers. difficult for Kelly anddisabilities, her the couple twins Benson and includes Hedges thewas are still thinking of Dylan, who both member both got the okay. Closer If toyoupartner, think you, a friend or family may be names. other interesting that would home, foxy morons Kath and eligiblewanted please something call the Podiatry Service on 99 11 99 39 “There daughter fromthe service. are a lot of traditional Kim faced a crisis over what differentiate to talk totheir someone about Kim should name her baby. others. The name came after names in our family and I’ve never really been interested in Enema and Catheter were up hearing it on television. “Living in a small country them – I want to be original,” there, but Kim eventually settled on Epponnee Rae (full name town you don’t want to pick Kelly added.
Putting your feet first
SUNDAY – 3 & 17 MAY
9.00am to 1.00pm Cintra Park (Car Park) Off Crane St, Concord
www.concordfarmersmarket.com.au Follow @ConcordMarkets
ROTARY CLUB OF CONCORD
Kids Karnival Charles Casuscelli RFD MP
Come and Meet
ADVERTISEMENT
@ PADDY’S MARKETS
Member for Strathfield
FLEMINGTON
I look forward to meeting you on Saturday 25th of May at the Croydon Park shops between 10.00am-12.00pm. Despicable Me 2 is a trademark and copyright of Universal Studios. Licensed by Universal Studios Licensing LLC. All Rights Reserved.
SUNDAY 24 MAY
ME, E D BY HOST MOR A N ! SA M
If you aren’t able to make it on the day, please feel free to visit me at my Office: Shop 1, 54 Burwood Road, Burwood NSW 2134 | Phone: (02) 9747 1711
SESSION 1: 11.00AM – 1.0OPM SESSION 2: 1.30PM – 3.3OPM
Fax: (02) 9747 6054 | Email: strathfield@parliament.nsw.gov.au | Web: charlescasuscelli.com.au | Facebook: facebook.com/CharlesCasuscelliMP Authorised by Charles Casuscelli RFD MP. This advertisement was produced using parliamentary entitlements.
FREE SHOWS • FREE PARKING
© Australian Broadcasting Corporation 2014.
© 2014 Viacom Overseas Holdings C.V. Minimum eight point font for both options.
WWW.PADDYSMARKETS.COM.AU
@ SCHOOL 11
22 April 2015
@ SCHOOL
Bringing joy to SCHOOL HOLIDAYS older people STUDENTS from Retaval Belfield Infants School visited Goondee Nursing Home in Strathfield bringing Easter cheer with them. They delighted the elderly by singing Easter Bells, Jesus Loves me and recited poems Little Peter Rabbit and Rabbit and his Nose before finishing their show with all-time favourite, Edelweiss.
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
“As the children handed out Easter eggs and cards to the residents the smiles of joy could be seen on both young and old. What a glorious way to welcome in Easter,” said Principal Miranda De Andrade. Right: Retaval Infant’s students at Goondee Nursing Home.
Back To Schoo l Memorial Garden for Mortlake Back To Schoo l SUNDAY OPEN
DAY
3 MAY 2015 11AM-3PM
JOIN US TO EXPERIENCE AN INNOVATIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT MP Craig Laundy, General Manager Canada Bay Council Gary Sawyer and former principal Jacqui Attard with Principal Elizabeth Bransgrove and guests for the official opening of the garden.
A ‘BUSH TUCKER Memorial Garden’ has been built on the grounds in Mortlake Public School for the ANZAC Centenary and was officially opened on 2 April. The garden commemorates WWI veterans and other family members from the school
community who served for Australia. The official opening was attended by Member for Reid Craig Laundy and Canada Bay General Manager Gary Sawyer. “Anzac Day 2015 marks 100 years since ANZAC troops landed at Gallipoli and forged a legend that
has helped shaped this young nation at its core. “It’s great to see such an amazing local memorial being opened in this centenary year, to commemorate the brave men and women who served in WWI,” Craig Laundy said.
• Tour our College campus • View the extensive upgrades to the College facilities • Enjoy performances and participate in workshops • Interact with students, teachers and parents
• Experience the hospitality of our community • Discover dynamic learning initiatives such as ConnectED in Year 7, Gifted & Talented, Accelerated Learning, Scholarship and International Exchange opportunities • Attend the Alumni Reunion
PRINCIPAL’S ADDRESS 11.30AM AND 1.30PM An Independent Catholic Co-Educational College for Students Years 7 - 12 1A Harris Road Five Dock NSW 2046 www.rosebank.nsw.edu.au | E: enquiries@rosebank.nsw.edu.au | Ph: 9713 3100 RBC1067-160x147mm-BurwoodScene-2.indd 1
1/04/2015 10:19 am
12
THE FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOP AND DINE
22 April 2015
One way is a no go for business owners THE FRIENDLY PLACE TO SHOP AND DINE
by Belinda Noonan
STRATHFIELD Council has sent a letter to businesses along Rochester Street in Homebush seeking feedback on a proposal to limit traffic to one-way and one lane and construct a roundabout at the intersection of The Crescent. In its letter dated April 7, council outlines two options. The first option would be to ‘widen the western side of Rochester Street for additional footpath dining; and generally improve pedestrian flows and accessibility’ and introduce a one-way north traffic operation. Option 2 would also widen the footpath but with a one-way south traffic operation, construct a roundabout at The Crescent
end and install a median island on Burlington Road. Business owners are united in their opposition to the proposal, including three café owners. “I’m happy with the outdoor space we currently have,” said Bar Cortona owner Steve Bell. “I’d rather have the existing areas improved and more useable. The trees are never pruned properly nor the gardens attended to.” Mr Bell also outlined the need for a flat, even outdoor space that doesn’t flood. Wok Inn’s Lawrence Duong is concerned saying, “I don’t like the idea at all. Parking will be limited for sure and customers will have to go round and round.” For long-time business operators such as Tony from Ricoza Café, and Rochester Meats’ David Cornall, it’s déjà vu. “This
SNIPPETS
SCHOOLS REMEMBER
HOMEBUSH Public School will hold their ANZAC Centenary Commemoration Service on Thursday, April 23 at 11.30am in the school assembly hall.
FORMER TEACHER HONOURED PRIOR to the recent school holidays Homebush Boys’ High held a ceremony to officially rename their existing gym the Ronald Tedford Gymnasium in honour of a long-serving teacher. Rob Tedford committed himself to fundraising for the refurbishment of the gym and taught at the school between 1975-2011.
Rochester Street at Homebush. Inset: The footpath was previously widened for outdoor dining.
plan doesn’t make sense and isn’t necessary,” said Tony. “Council already widened the footpath and it’s wide enough as it is.” “ The roundabout is fantastic, but why is Strathfield Council wanting to make it one-way?” asks David Cornall. “This comes up every five years. We’re trying to run a business here.”
Shoppers are worried that shops will close as a result of changing the traffic flow. “I come here because there is wonderful fresh produce and meat. It’s the best shopping centre in the area. Parking is getting harder and we can’t lose great shops,” said Prue Brinsmead. Cathy Connor, who is a regular customer of every
shop, believes convenience is a key factor. “It’s an illogical exercise for the residents. You’d be less likely to come to Homebush if you have to park further away. As a local, convenience is number one.” Helen Yardley agreed. “Just take a look at The Boulevarde at Strathfield. I see ludicrous actions by motorists there. One-way won’t make Rochester
Street safer because people will take greater risks.” “Motorists can’t take evasive action on a tiny channel, the shopping strip won’t be more accessible and there will be more trip hazards on a wider footpath. The street will just stop at school start and finish times. This proposal is all spin,” Mrs Yardley added. Burlington Road business owners say they
have not received a letter from Strathfield Council. “It stinks,” said Greig from The Beauty Shoppe. “Our business has been on this site for 54 years and operated by John and myself for the past 35 years. Any further widening of the footpath on the low side of Rochester Street would be an engineering feat because it floods.”
Dead letters prompt mail reform
DECLINING mail volumes have led Australia Post to overhaul its letter deliveries and introduce yet another price rise. The Federal Government has approved Australia Post’s request for a two-speed letters service, consisting of a Priority and Regular service which will happen no earlier than September. The Regular
service will be delivered two days slower than the current timetable. Ahmed F a h o u r, Australia Post’s Managing Director and Group CEO, said price increases were also needed to better recover the cost of the letters service and avoid cross-subsidisation from the profitable parcels business.
J ESSIE’S DEN IAL SUPER SPEC
il Fruit Cockta 750ml
$12
Mr Fahour confirmed that Australia Post would seek approval from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission to raise the basic stamp price from 70 cents to $1 to better reflect the total cost of sending a letter. It was only last year that the ACCC gave the go-ahead for Australia Post to increase the basic stamp price from 60 to 70 cents. At Five Dock’s Post Office, Member for Reid, Craig Laundy and members of Australia Post conducted a listening post for locals to learn about and discuss the proposed Regular and Priority letter service. Mr Laundy believes people understand the
need for Australia Post to adapt. “No specific concerns were raised from the listening post,” said a spokesman for Mr Laundy. Mr Laundy reassured people that many aspects of the service will remain the same. “The post service will still be delivering mail five days a week, concession price of a stamp has been frozen at 60 cents, as has a card-only stamp at 65 cents,” he said. A spokesperson from Australia Post told Burwood Scene that they could not specify how much the decline had hit the inner west as mail volumes are not measured by suburbs, but added
that this year posties will deliver 1.2 billion fewer letters than in 2008. The spokesperson also revealed that there are no planned post office closures as a result of the changes. The spokesperson was confident when asked if Australia Post thought that the price increase and two-tier delivery system would be accepted by Australians. “It’s also important to note, these service changes were introduced last year for business mail and have been widely embraced by customers. About 70 per cent of business mail is now sent to the slower regular service timetable,” the spokesperson added.
The
Beauty Shoppe Professional, friendly, personal service
MADE ON PREMISES
Sweet and Gift Trays from $1590(500g)
Specialising in Permanent Waves and Colour Correction
Hairdressing
ALL DAY BREAKFAST until 3pm daily
NEW MENU • NEW CHEF 25 BURLINGTON ROAD, HOMEBUSH Open 7 Days 7am-7pm
8084 7611
by appointment
Part of the local community since 1983
Burlington Road , H ome 444 4Burlington Rd, Homebush 2140 bush | Phone: 974
974 6 5312
News
22 April 2015
Where lunch and learning meet
Just sayin’…
By Mitchell Jordan
Mitchell@scenenewspapers.com.au
by Saimi Jeong
The fast and the furious refusal to go slow A FOUR-DAY weekend is something we all dream of and long for, but when unrelenting rain turned Easter cheer into a case of cabin fever I seriously started to reconsider the joys of not working. On the Thursday night before the Easter long weekend began, I decided to get an early start on the housework and cleaned the oven and microwave. By 8.00am on Good Friday, I was already sorting through the piles of paper in my room. When that was done, the dishes were washed, the living room vacuumed and toilet scrubbed. What was next? I fired off a few work emails which began with: “I know you’re probably on holiday right now, but I just thought I’d write and ask if …” By lunch time, panic set in. My housemate and I began to check the travel websites in the hope of cheap flights to somewhere – anywhere – with warm weather. There was a reasonably priced flight to Melbourne leaving in two hours: could we do it? The next morning, sitting in a café, we rued our decision to stay put and made promises that,
next year, we would book flights in January or even December to avoid a repeat of our exile to a house we normally spend so little time inside of. I’ve spent almost my entire working life doing two jobs while, for the last year, I have balanced three along with occasional freelance contracts. I fight the urge to laugh when potential employers ask for an example of when I have had to manage my time or enquire if I am used to meeting deadlines. During these frenetic periods I have wondered if I should cut back to parttime work or even give up everything for a month of solitude. The long weekend made me realise this would not be a good idea. Or would it?
“WHAT’S your story?” is the question on Clare Hall’s lips, every time she sits at a VIEW Club lunch. For the Concord West VIEW Club president, getting to know women of all ages and from all walks of life is one of the best aspects of the members’ monthly meetings. “It’s just amazing,” Ms Hall says. “I was chatting to another lady at a VIEW lunch and she was European. She said she was 21 when she left Czechoslovakia, alone, because the Russians invaded. She told me her story.” “There are lots of women with interesting backgrounds, whether it’s through their work or other charities.” The club sponsors three children in primary school, enabling them to buy the basics including uniforms, books, stationery and excursions. “ T he y ge t t h i ng s like their school shoes
Provided I had the skill and inspiration, I could have spent the time writing a novel, learning a language, going on a detox, researching my elusive family history, meditating or, better than any of those things, I could have learnt to simply stop and enjoy life without the fear of feeling the need to accomplish something. Mitchell Jordan is Deputy Editor at Burwood Scene.
Full Business Assessment Bookkeeping
reimbursed or a toy for their birthday, and they’ll send us letters saying thank you,” Ms Hall says. “They’re just delightful and very grateful.” To raise money, the VIEW club meets at Burwood RSL and has a raffle, often with items brought in by members, such as pre-loved books and hand-made crafts.
To advertise call 9715 2700 E
Taxation
Ladies meet at Burwood RSL each month for the Concord West VIEW Club.
All proceeds from the raffle, as well as a few dollars from each meal at lunch, go to The Smith Family, a charity that supports disadvantaged children and young people through primary and high school. Ms Hall finds it very fulfilling to be a part of VIEW. “I like to belong to something that is helping someone. In every
school there are students who need more help than others. A lot of families would really struggle without some extra support,” she says. “It’s lovely getting letters, and being able to say to these kids, ‘Someone wants to pay for your education’.”
WIN ride tickets for Strathfield Fun Fair
LU VA
expressmobilebookkeeping.com.au
13
You can win free ride tickets to the Olde Fashioned Fun Fair at Strathfield Square on Saturday, May 9. Burwood Scene has FREE TICKETS to give away for the first 20 people who email editor@burwoodscene.com.au by Friday, May 8. Tickets will be available for collection at the ticket booth at Strathfield Square from 10.00am on Saturday, May 9. NOTE: 20 free ride tokens per email equal to four (4) for the rides or activities.
PLUS you can present the May Fair ad on this page for an additional one (1) free ride ticket (5 tokens)
2015 FUN FAIR
Call Neamul 0433 416 665 Payroll
Financial Services
Folk Singer and MC
PAT DRUMMOND
Putting your feet first Home and Community Podiatry Service, auspiced by Burwood Council, is for residents of the Ashfield, Burwood, Canada Bay, Canterbury, Leichhardt, Marrickville and Strathfield Local Government Areas. We aim to provide a comprehensive, responsive and flexible podiatry service for the Home and Community Care target group which includes the frail aged, people with disabilities, and their carers. If you think you, a friend or family member may be eligible please call the Podiatry Service on 99 11 99 39 to talk to someone about the service.
SATURDAY 9 MAY – 10am to 4pm STRATHFIELD SQUARE (next to Strathfield Railway Station) • Animal Farm • Cup & Saucer Ride OLDE • Disco Show • Laughing Clowns FASHIONED MAY FAIR FUN • Pick a Duck • Sponge Throwing GOLD SPONSOR…
MEDIA PARTNER…
SILVER SPONSOR…
MAJOR SPONSORS…
FREE FACE PAINTING Local Performers All Day
14
NEws
22 April 2015
Graffiti warriors clean up
briefly
NEW SIGNS FOR CYCLISTS Ashfield Council has recently installed 325 cycleway signs across the Ashfield area to make it easier for bike riders to navigate the local area. A number of priority areas have already been identified, but if any residents have any suggestions as to where they would like to see more bicycle parking in public places they can email Ashfield Council at info@ashfield.nsw.gov.au.
EVENTUALLY graffiti vandals will catch on to the fact that Strathfield is a no-go area for their criminal behaviour. Strathfield Rotary club members, in partnership with Strathfield Council, led the charge on March 28 to clean up the now disused but beautiful building on Parramatta Road in Homebush that was once the Niterider theatre restaurant, before that an ice rink and before that a movie theatre. If you have a building that requires graffiti removal, call Pete Smith from the Strathfield Rotary Club on 0412 232 753.
SENIORS’ COMPUTER CLUB The next term for Burwood Seniors Computer Club started on Monday, April 20. New students are always welcome to classes on Monday, Tuesday and Thursdays. Call Alice on 9797 9169. LIVING WELL AFTER CANCER In NSW, about 36,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year. More than 65% of people treated for the disease survive, and many need support to face the challenges that follow. The Living Well Cancer program in Concord is open to people who have finished cancer treatment, along with their carers, family members and close friends. The next Living Well free seminar is at Concord Hospital. Date: Saturday 9 May 2015 Time: 10am-12.30pm Contact: Call for venue details and registration on 1300 200 558 or email livingwellaftercancer@nswcc.org.au ARE YOU A CARER? Carers often experience worry, stress and anxiety. Learn how to deal with your emotions at a FREE Emotional Freedom Technique ‘EFT’ seminar at Burwood RSL from 10am until 11.30am on May 1st. The EFT technique (known as ‘tapping’), is based on Chinese Acupuncture without the use of needles. This gentle technique can be used on any emotional issue, pain, habit or trauma. Only 30 seats are available. Contact Robyn on 0410 538 874 to book. For information see www.tappingitaway.com.au
The old Niterider theatre restaurant building gets attention from Strathfield Rotary members.
Learn mosaics from an expert
LUNCH FOR BLOOD RESEARCH Performers Maggie Scott and Tony Emmi bring THE FRIENDLY PLACE TOwillSHOP entertainment to Club Burwood RSL next month to raise money for cord blood research. The Inner Wheel Club of Balmain has organised a three-course luncheon, along with a silent auction, lucky door prizes and raffles to support the research. Tickets are $45 per person or $15 for children under 12. RSVP by 24 April by emailing iiw.au.balmain@gmail.com JUSTICES MEETING The Ashfield/Burwood branch of the NSW Justices Association will hold their next meeting on Wednesday, 20 May at 7.15pm at Club Burwood RSL, 96 Shaftesbury Rd, Burwood. During the meeting a training session will be conducted on Divorce Documents and Procedures. All Justices of the Peace and those wishing to become Justices of the Peace are welcome to attend. For more details contact margaret.arnaout@gmail.com
CONCRETING
Certified Concrete
ARTIST and designer Susanna Mills, will be holding a six-week Mosaic Course at St Paul’s Burwood starting on May 4. Susanna has created several AND DINE beautiful mosaics with the Burwood community including the ‘Women and Education’ mosaic on the Community Centre wall in Burwood Park in 2009, which was quickly followed by the ‘Ethereal Light’ mosaic in 2010 with the Ella Centre. In early 2013, the exquisitely detailed ‘Our Community Mosaic’ duo for the children’s waterpark at Enfield Pool was created, and then a very ambitious series of sixty mosaics were made with a team of volunteers from St Paul’s Parish throughout 2014.
grahame true electrician Donald Geoffrey Electrical
ALL TYPES OF CONCRETING
• Installations • Maintenance • Repairs - Residential - Commercial - Industrial
• Plain and coloured • Driveways • Walkways • Stairs • Wheelchair Access Ramps • Patios and Sheds
WE ALSO PROVIDE…
• Landscaping • Rubbish removal • Cleaning • Fencing • Tree and shrub removal • Gutter cleaning • Pressure cleaning • Painting • Emergency Work
CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE
FITNESS
ELECTRICAL
electrical
&
MAINTENANCE
“This major community in creating a successful and project concluded with the enduring mosaic. installation of the fabulous “You’ll then move on to ‘Creation Mosaic’ for the 60th a more advanced project of Anniversary celebrations of your own, with experienced the Parish Hall of St Paul’s mosaicists in your classes,” she explained. “The value of this Burwood,” Susanna said. Novice and advanced interaction is in being able to mosaicists will be tutored and exchange ideas, techniques, mentored in a social and relaxed processes and materials. It’s how environment about her course you learn the most, and really engage with a creative process.” format. Mills will have a small, “Mosaic is a slow and but good selection of mosaic methodical process. Novice materials available for purchase, THE PLACE SHOP AND DINE mosaicists will createFRIENDLY a small as materials are notTO included in mosaic plaque over two to the course fees. Classes will be Enfield Diver mosaic three weeks in order to master held in the mini hall at St Paul’s are from 6.30 to 8.30pm and tile cutting and laying skills,” at 205 Burwood Road. Susanna explained. Book and pay for Term 2 by Wednesday mosaics 11am until Participants will also learn April 25 for a $15 free mosaic 2pm. See www.susies-studio. com or www.facebook.com/ about the artistic, design and tiles voucher. technical aspects involved Monday mosaic nights susiestudio
In the Strathfield area for 41 years Domestic & Commercial Professional Service
Family business since 1983
9642 1361 or
0418 252200
9744 9355 Mob : 0418 296 714
Billy 0497 564 722 • Chris 0497 564 707 Email: certifiedconcrete@outlook.com
Email : donaldgeoffrey@bigpond.com.au
LAWN SERVICES
plumbing
E: gtrue@tpg.com.au
Licensed Electrician
Lic No : EC 29154
Mr Tap Fix P en si on er D is co un ts
• Leaking taps? • Taps hard to turn? • Fitting new taps?
printing
PRINTERS SINCE 1977 • • • • • •
PHOTOCOPIES LETTERHEADS BUSINESS CARDS RUBBER STAMPS INVOICE BOOKS NEWSLETTERS
Back To Scho ol All Plumbing, Drainage and Gas repairs. Phone Charlie (YES I turn up and on time)
mob: 0419 287 974 after hours: 9642 7349
Your tap repair specialist
ALL GENERAL PRINTING
16 The Crescent, HOMEBUSH
T: 9746 6434
F: 9746 0495 E: select@zip.com.au
ADVERTISE HERE in this space for only
$66.00
15
22 April 2015
Big hitter takes McDonald’s prize
Hari Rao in the nets.
HARI RAO from Strathfield Cricket Club won the McDonald’s Junior Cricketer of the Week for metropolitan Sydney in early April after an outstanding performance with the bat the previous weekend. Rao produced a damaging display in the Canterbury and Western Suburbs Cricket Association U/16 Grand Final against Summer Hill. After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Rao’s side was in trouble early at 1-7 when he came to the crease. He got his team’s innings back on track, hitting 154 before they declared at 5-307. Following on from the stunning innings, Rao then went on to take figures of 4-37 as Summer Hill scored 8-277, and the match was declared a draw. As the winner of McDonald’s Junior Cricketer of the Week, Rao will receive a $50 pre-paid Visa card while a certificate bearing his name will also be displayed at his local McDonald’s restaurant in Burwood Westfield. Selva Rasiah, from McDonald’s Burwood Westfield is thrilled for the young sportstar. “Cricket clubs are run throughout the state and it is great to see a junior cricketer from our own local area receive this admirable prize,” he said.
Cheer on Sydney Emeralds at the 2015 nationals
Celtic coaches build bridges by Paul Brown
PLAYERS from Enfield Football Club were treated to ball mastery techniques from Celtic Football Club Academy coaches last week as part of a new partnership between the Scottish club, Aussieroos Academy and Enfield FC. Celtic have academy partnerships in over 50 countries and now bring their expertise to the inner west after head coach, Tony Dunn, approached them at a Celtic International Coach Convention. “Players were shown the ‘Celtic way’ which allows players to have as many touches on the ball as they can. At the beginning of every session players get as many as 2 thousand to 3 thousand touches on the ball,” said UEFA qualified academy coach Tony Massie. Enfield and Aussieroos Head Coach Tony Dunn now hope to use these methods to develop a higher standard of coaching for girls and women in the inner west. Michael McCahill and Zeshan Ullah from Celtic football Club and local players.
canterbury
TEAMS of synchronised swimmers from across the country and the world will this month compete in Australia’s biggest competition for the sport. The 2015 Synchronised Swimming Australia Open and Age Group Championships brings together routines from Olympic hopefuls and
newcomers as young as eight. Sydney Emeralds will be up against competitors from NSW, Queensland, Western Australia and Victoria, as well as international teams from the Asia Pacific. Full teams in performances with d r am at i c l i f t s and throws will feature in
the spectacular Combo Competition, the highlight of the three day event, on Sunday, April 26 at 2pm. The championships will be held from April 24-26, 9am to 5pm at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre in Homebush. Entry is $4 and children under the age of 4 attend for free.
8 week semester includes 8 free extra sessions
Olympic ice Rink
saturday 11am - 12.30pm monday 4.15pm - 5.45pm
Skate with the best
only
$138
to skate • learn at any time • startaccredited coaches • PhilliPs ave, tasker Park, canterbury
See all the action at the Synchronised Swimming Championships
|
www.canterburyicerink.com.au
16
BURWOOD SCENE
22 April 2015