what's inside
6 downhill derby
10 connecting culture and cuisine
14 finding hygge
18 the cardinal rules
22 finds for you
24 a century in the making
28 cabbage tree palm
30 peking duk
34 you can take that to the bank
38 bathroom trends to inspire 42 happiest happy hours 44 five easy ways to be more sustainable at home
46 let’s go chasing waterfalls
52 green connections 58 meet a neighbour 60 hey brew
62 what's on calendar 64 the quiz
There is a QUIZ on page 64 and here are the answers: 1. Jess Fox (kayaking) and Eddie Ockenden (hockey), 2. The sperm whale (for up to 90 minutes!), 3. Woody, 4. Keera Vale, 1884, 5. 2011, 6. A flamboyance, 7. Kansas City Chiefs, 8. Canada, 9. An aglet, 10. Spain (versus England 2-1), 11. Warrawong in 1978, 12. Katy Perry, 13. Queen Charlotte, 14. Bruno, 15. Katherine Hepburn, 16. Snake, 17. Luxembourg, 18. Portable Document Format, 19. 10, 20. Agatha Christie
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Dharawal Country. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging. The original storytellers.
Spring has arrived in the Illawarra, bringing with it a refreshing change from the wind and winter chill. As we embrace longer days and warmer temperatures, our region comes alive with vibrant colours and renewed energy.
This season, we’re especially excited to highlight the cabbage tree palm, a true symbol of our local landscape.
Native to the east coast of Australia, these distinctive palms thrive along salty, exposed coastlines – something that the Illawarra has in spades!
Whether it’s the tall Jerara Palms on our cover, taken by the talented Belinda Doyle, the ‘valley of the Cabbage Tree Palms’ aka Thirroul, or the controversial palm up a pole in Wollongong Mall – they remind us of the strength and resilience of our natural environment.
Although a slightly smaller issue, it’s jam-packed with great stories from across our community. In this issue, we meet two gents whose friendship is a century in the making (pg 24), chat to award-winning chef Mark Olive who splits his time cooking at both the Sydney Opera House and Killalea (pg 10), and we take a sneak peek at the upcoming Illawarra Festival of Architecture and Design (pg 34).
We hope these features inspire you to take full advantage of the season’s opportunities and enjoy the beauty around us.
Here’s to a season of growth and renewal!
Kate and Team CCM
Coal Coast Magazine is published four times a year and has taken the utmost care to ensure content is accurate on the date of publication. Coal Coast Magazine does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information, product or service represented within our magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.
Southerly Media Pty Ltd ABN 70 661 659 132
editor
Kate O'Mealley
editor@coalcoastmagazine.com
deputy editor
Hayley Griffiths
graphic design
Ren Howard
advertising design
Elaine Allen
Emily Gatwood
social media manager
Taylah Cutting
studio manager
Micaela Adams
sales manager
Jacquie Coiner
digital coordinator
Sasha Johnson interns
Analise Greenhalgh
Skyla Yorke
proofreader
Lyn Osborn
cover image
Belinda Doyle
our contributors
Penny Keogh
Paul Boultwood
Simon Nutt
Spencer Dungey
Kim White
Lucy Kippist
Lauren Pomphrey
Anthony Smith
Hadassa Rorke
Micaela Adams
Joel Hoffman
Judith Russo
Billy Zammit
Emma Smith
Lou Purvis
Louise Wellington
Dan @hikeandseek
James Anthony
Ethan Yates
Coal Coast is a term which recognises a prominent rock found beneath our area's surface, while celebrating local history and glittering coastline.
downhill derby
THE PORT KEMBLA BILLY CART DERBY WAS A FAN FAVOURITE FOR DECADES, WITH MANY HOMEMADE CARTS RACING DOWN THE WENTWORTH STREET HILL AND STRAIGHT INTO THE RECORD BOOKS.
Words Analise Greenhalgh
Images From the collections of Wollongong City Libraries and the Illawarra Historical Society
The Port Kembla Billy Cart Derby began in 1940, with wooden carts flying down Wentworth Street. Kids would gather all kinds of materials to craft their carts with love. From old fruit boxes, to carved out boat hulls, Wentworth Street saw many billy carts and racers throughout the years.
While the derby began with a sense of the amateur, it quickly evolved into the sleeker race the crowds grew to love.
The carts ran the gamut; from handmade, hand painted and slightly rickety to polished bullets that would slice through the competition.
The derby was broken up into four age divisions; seven to eleven years, eleven to sixteen, juniors and open. Racers could begin their careers at seven and not have to think about retiring for at least a few years. This was the case for Jim Manoliadis, a Port Kembla local, who raced several times and even won his division in 1987.
“I didn’t think I was going to win. It was a bit of a shock because it was a brand-new billy cart“
“I didn’t think I was going to win. It was a bit of a shock because it was a brand-new billy cart.”
Each billy cart had to meet derby conditions, and each entrant’s vehicle was checked over before the commencement of the race. With only tyres or bales of hay as barriers along the track, it was important to ensure the safety of drivers.
“It was a single person car and had a certain weight. It had a maximum weight of 65 kilos, and it had a maximum length of 2150 millimetres [and] 1200 millimetres wide. It had to have brakes and good steering,” says Jim.
The annual event drew to a close in 1998, as the event’s owner didn’t wish to continue running it. However, there was a revival in 2012 to bring the community back together. It ran for a few more years but could not continue because of a lack of funds.
“You need $100,000 to run that billy cart derby. $50,000 [in] donations and $50,000 in cash to pay for barriers, security, bathrooms. Nothing's free.”
Even without the derby running annually, there is still a vibrant community in Port Kembla who look back fondly and appreciate the fun event. Wentworth Street itself continues to evolve and change, but many locals will forever look at the street as the scene of some of the greatest races of their time. ¡
h e Z o m b i e sH a l l o w e e n !
2 - M e l i n d a S c h n e i d e r
8 - D i r t y D i c k ’ s T h e a t r e R e s t a u r a n t
1 5 - B l u e s B r o t h e r s R e v u e
2 3 - W o l l o n g o n g C o m e d y
3 0 - T o m B u r l i n s o n
w i d e
A n a l l n e w 2 0 2 4 s t a g e s h o w w i l l b r i n g y o u f a b u l o u s f u n , l u s t y l e g e n d s a n d t i t i l l a t i n g t a l e s f r o m t h e t i m e s o f K i n g R i c h a r d a n d R o b i n H o o d
R e g a l e i n n e w s o n g s , n e w p e r f o r m a n c e m a t e r i a l , n e w g a m e s a n d t h e
t r a d i t i o n a l m a d n e s s a n d m a y h e m .
2 c o u r s e d i n n e r i n c l u d e d .
D A T E - F r i d a y 8 N o v e m b e r 2 0 2 4
Mark Olive
connecting culture and cuisine
AS A RENOWNED CHEF, TV HOST, AUTHOR AND INDIGENOUS FOOD AMBASSADOR,
MARK OLIVE, AKA “THE BLACK OLIVE” HAS ACHIEVED INTERNATIONAL ACCLAIM, INCLUDING HIS RESTAURANT AT THE ICONIC SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE. AT HOME ON DHARAWAL COUNTRY, MARK IS GIVING NATIVE INGREDIENT BUSH TUCKER THE WORLDCLASS TREATMENT AT KILLALEA.
Interview Kate O’Mealley Words Lauren Pomphrey, laurenpomphrey.com
Images Anthony Smith Media
Many people will recognise Mark Olive as the celebrity chef who has spent his career infusing the culinary world with the flavours of Indigenous Australian cuisine. What they may not know is it all began in the Illawarra.
Growing up in Dapto, Mark was always mesmerised by the process of ingredients and flavours coming to together to make something magical. But it was his visits to family in Bundjalung Nation in the Northern Rivers region of NSW that sparked his love of native ingredients.
“My aunts would cook with lots of wattleseeds and lemon myrtle, it was pretty amazing,” Mark explains. “That’s where I was first exposed to a lot of Indigenous foods and it was always in the back of my mind.”
Mark brought his fascination of native ingredients home, and his love of food was only heightened by his multicultural surrounds at Kanahooka High. “You had the Greeks, you had the Italians, everybody was from everywhere, which was brilliant.” When the time came to do work experience, the chance to try his hand as an apprentice chef at Wollongong Hospital was a natural fit. “I ended up going to the hospital, and I just loved it,” Mark remembers.
“The kitchen [at Wollongong Hospital] was the size of a football field, I loved the environment, loved the atmosphere.”
Taking on Australia
From these humble beginnings, Mark's catering career took off. He worked in various establishments throughout the Illawarra, Melbourne and Sydney during the 1980s and ‘90s, continually honing his craft and developing his unique style. During this time, he dug deep into his research of Indigenous foods and spices, foraging in beaches, national parks and even front yards.
figure in the culinary world, writing and hosting the first ever Aboriginal cooking and travel show, ‘The Outback Cafe’.
This dedication to his craft made Mark’s decision to study film and theatre in the mid-90s somewhat of a shock to friends and family. But he followed his instincts, and the final piece of the puzzle fell into place, allowing Mark to bring native ingredients to new and influential audiences.
“I'd be doing my lemon myrtle, I'd be doing my strawberry gums. I’d do a kangaroo fillet and put on a bit of Warrigal greens, I'd crown it with smoked emu instead of bacon, and then I'd do a pepperberry sauce over it. These flavours were totally different. It was a great time to experiment and be inventive.”
Mark was ahead of his time, and still had a lot of hard work and knockbacks ahead of him, but his dedication paid off. He became a well-known
Both seasons of the show shot to number one in the ratings – “we beat Nigella and Jamie!” he remembers excitedly. Mark had blazed the trail; Australia was finally listening.
Taking on the world
By the mid 2000s, the floodgates had opened –“Next minute Huey’s doing wattleseed on the barbecue!” – and Mark established himself as the global face of gourmet Australian Indigenous cuisine. This led to appearances on numerous high-profile TV shows, along with an international career delivering signature events around the world for clients such as Baz Lurhmann, Tourism Australia, Qantas and Oprah (yes, that Oprah).
“Look, I’m a boy from the Gong. I knew I was always going to come back. I love it down here, it’s calming. It just feels right."
Back on home turf, Mark now brings Indigenous gastronomy to Australia’s most iconic venue at Midden by Mark Olive in the Sydney Opera House. His incredible journey from an apprentice at Wollongong Hospital to a celebrated chef and TV personality is a testament to his passion, dedication and love for food and community. So, what can possibly be next?
Coming home
Feeling the call of his childhood homeland, Mark is now bringing modern bush tucker back to Dharawal Country at The Farm Kiosk at Killalea. His sweet and savoury creations focus on Indigenous Australian flavours and native ingredients, as well as hyper-local ingredients such lilli pilli, grey saltbush and lemon myrtle.
“Look, I’m a boy from the Gong. I knew I was always going to come back. I love it down here, it’s calming. It just feels right.”
Coming into spring, Mark will move with the seasons with an ever-changing menu. “In the warm weather, I like a bush tomato gazpacho, which is really nice and refreshing. [If it’s cooler], I’ll do a barramundi pie. Then we do our dessert lime and lemon myrtle muffins. You can come in any day and they’re all different.”
With one of Australia’s most iconic surf beaches serving as a backdrop, it feels like the stuff dreams are made of. And with both The Farm and Mark Olive right on our doorstep, it seems dreams really do come true. ¡
Visit The Farm Kiosk at Killalea Reserve, Shell Cove or follow @thefarmkiosk
To learn more about Mark's work, visit Black Olive, or make a booking at his Sydney restaurant, Midden by Mark Olive
finding hygge
STEP INTO A LOCAL SLICE OF SCANDINAVIA VIA DANSK IN HELENSBURGH. A BAR WHERE THE FLAVOURS ARE JUST LIKE THE OWNERS, A BLEND OF DANISH AND AUSTRALIAN, THE MOOD IS “HYGGE” AND THE WARMTH OF GIVING BACK TO A COMMUNITY THEY LOVE.
Words Lucy Kippist
“I know I'm so lucky to be able to do what I do, and being able to work with my family is super special to me. ”
Meet Sofia Trajberg-Hill, General Manager of Dansk, the newest offering on Helensburgh’s Walker Street, which among many other things, is a family affair! Sofia works alongside mum, Anita (the owner) and her partner Simon (one of the cooks).
“I coordinate a lot of the general operations at the bar as well as menu and cocktail creation, social media, and events. I love my job and the experiences it gives me. I know I'm so lucky to be able to do what I do, and being able to work with my family is super special to me,” said Sofia.
Dansk, meaning “Danish” is a deliberate fusion of Australia and Danish culture (like Sofia herself) and was dreamt up like most of the best things in life, while travelling.
“I was living in Denmark for about two years, visiting family and travelling during the summers. It was so great for research for Dansk. Every time I ate out with my partner Simon, I was taking photos, writing down ideas and sending them to my mum who was back in Australia running Oat & Honey Espresso in Helensburgh and Oat & Honey in Thirroul,” she said.
Taking inspiration from Danish design, Sofia tapped into the local Helensburgh community when it came to fitting out the bar’s elegant and streamlined design.
“We wanted to create a space that is both modern and elegant but can still be cosy and convivial or ‘hyggeligt’ as the Danes like to say. We used some awesome local tradespeople, an electrician Kris Williams and a local plumber James Cattley from Cattley Plumbing, both top blokes and would really recommend them.
"Also a very handy man, my dad, Ben Hill (the resident handyman of Dansk). Dansk would run a whole lot less smoothly without him, that's for sure!”
The Dansk experience is all about sharing the owner’s love and knowledge of Danish culture with their local community.
“We really wanted to share our Danish culture with our community, and one of the best ways to do that is through food and drinks. Our whole concept for Dansk is to showcase some amazing Danish national dishes and flavours, but with an Aussie twist.
“We love to use beautiful local and Australian ingredients and by doing so have created this really cool Danish Australian fusion - a bit like myself being half Danish and half Aussie. It is something different and interesting we think we have brought to Helensburgh, and hope people enjoy our little hygge bar.”
Favourite dishes include Fried Pork Belly, a spin on the classic Danish dish called Seget Flæsk and the Citron Fromage, a light Danish lemon mousse.
“I love the whole menu,” said Sofia. “Together with Simon and Mum, we put some of our favourite Danish dishes together to share with everyone,” said Sofia.
With lots of great feedback from locals already, where customer service always rates a mention, Sofia and her family are delighted with the Dansk journey so far.
“We absolutely love, love, love our local community and the support they have shown us through the reopening and rebranding of Dansk. We are forever grateful, and so lucky to be a part of such an incredible community,” said Sofia.
“And it’s a lot of fun. Bringing some more nightlife to Helensburgh is such a plus for the town. Keeping things fun and energetic is something that we hope to do, and keep doing even more so in the summertime.” ¡
Why not try?
Frikadellar Fridays with $1 Danish meatballs
Happy Hour 4-6pm every Thursday and Friday night
Spritz Sundays 11am- 3pm every Sunday
Visit Dansk Bar at 35 Walker Street, Helensburgh Follow @dansk.bar on Instagram and Facebook
Rose Maher
the cardinal rules
IN A THOUGHT-PROVOKING NEW PRODUCTION, ROSE MAHER CHANNELS HER CHILDHOOD JOURNEY OF GROWING UP IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH TO CHALLENGE AUTHORITY AND LIFE’S BIG QUESTIONS.
Interview Kate O’Mealley Words Analise Greenhalgh Images Spencer Dungey
Rose Maher with theatre company Hurrah Hurrah is bringing The Cardinal Rules, to the MerrigongX stage to explore the impact of the Catholic Church on community, identity and the voice of the individual. Born out of COVID-19 lockdown, the play draws on Rose’s experiences of growing up in institutional religion – in her case, Catholicism.
The show is a work of storytelling, parts of which are told through the eyes of a child, the fictional character of Rose, a dedicated elevenyear-old parishioner in suburban Canberra. She questions, queries, and quite innocently mocks the church’s theatrical rituals with her child’s play as a way to grapple with her identity and the influence of the religions authority over her.
The audience is encouraged to self-reflect throughout the play to look at how their own lives have been impacted by authority, particularly at an institutional level – a conversation that’s not readily had within our community.
Conversations are sparked around what role institutions play in crafting ‘rites of passage’ that individuals go through as they mature. Rose speaks to her experience of this, particularly in making her confirmation around the age of 12.
“I remember thinking at the time, this feels like a really big deal, and I don't feel big enough to make this like a reaffirmation essentially of your baptism,” Rose says. “I suppose as the adult now, but also as the child at the time, I was aware that I was being asked to make a commitment to something that I didn't really understand, wasn't really allowed to question it, but I was being dictated to the terms of which I would fulfil the ritual.”
“It is touching and funny and deeply personal. If you have ever questioned the values you were brought up with, but still can't seem to shake them, then this show will speak to you.”
Rose describes the work as a personal reckoning, as she herself has been grappling with what parts of the formal church doctrine has shaped her world view and held influence over the community she grew up with.
“Now, as an adult, I can see that it didn't necessarily set me up to kind of have a critical framework to understand how I participate in
society. And so now I'm like, well, where do I get that framework from and, or, how do I throw off that framework and find another one?”
Growing up in a Catholic family, Rose experienced first-hand the community that comes with being religious, and its influence across her family, spiritual and social life.
“There are so many stories about my childhood, and so many that are linked to the people that we knew in the parish. My dad played the music, and my mum was involved in getting the youth to be a part of it.”
Even in their imagination, Rose and her family still found grounding in the church. “As a little girl with my siblings, my little sister and I used to play all sorts of things at home. Church was one of those things,” says Rose.
It was only later that Rose began to question what her faith really meant to her. Born and raised in Canberra, Rose undertook a Bachelor of Creative Arts at the University of Wollongong. In the past few years, while in France doing theatre and clown training, she had the opportunity to explore some of these ideas and found the theatre a safe place to confront some heavy concepts.
“We were asked to look at the ‘bastard’ in our community that we would like to potentially take down. George Pell was being jailed the week that we were doing that exercise. That's kind of where it was born,” says Rose.
“I got incredible feedback from that [experience], in that I was allowed to keep playing because the audience was with me and there were laughs and engagement. It was the first time that I'd really kind of hit on something [topical and complex] - it needed writing and it needed extension.”
Rose uses the performance and drama of the church to explore some large, and sometimes overwhelming, ideas. Combining the drama of the theatre with the “production” of church, The Cardinal Rules creates an atmosphere of comedy to delve into some complicated concepts.
“Church itself is so theatrical and I think there's something really glorious about that,” says Rose. ¡
The Cardinal Rules, Merrigong Theatre Company, 31 October to 2 November
The work is part of MerrigongX which aims to provide a platform for artists to explore new concepts, from in-house developmental works to public launches. The show is ‘pay what you feel’ – reserve your seat at merrigong.com.au
The Cardinal Rules
NUMBER 99
Number 99 is a new creative workshop and event space in Port Kembla. Dedicated to gathering, making, playing and creating change. For all ages - join a class and get creative!
99 Wentworth St, Port Kembla number99pk@gmail.com www.number99pk.com @number99pk
DRIVE WITH MAL
For a friendly and reliable transport service to the airport, cruise terminal, wine tours, doctor’s appointments or even out for dinner, chat to Malcolm and his team.
NDIS certified. Book early for Melbourne Cup lunches and events – Tuesday 5 November @drivewithmal 0422 753 846
LOVE IN A BOTTLE
Discover your signature scent with Love In A Bottle perfumes, a Wollongong based perfumer's dream of adding cruelty free, vegan perfumes to your skincare routine. With gourmand fragrances like ‘Love In Milkshake’ and ‘Love In Chocolate’ you are sure to find something just for you.
143 Corrimal St, Wollongong
Get 20% off when you buy two or more fragrances, use code COAL20 loveinabottle.com.au @loveinabottle.au
THE PANTHA WAY
The Pantha Way is more than just a place to practise yoga, we are a community fostering #consciousconnectionsandcommunity. From invigorating flow yoga, slower hatha to serene yin and nidra meditation practices. 45 Wentworth St, Port Kembla Use code COALCOASTSPRING24 to receive $10 off our introductory studio trial Yogi Explorer (eligible to new clients only and expires 30 Nov 2024)
hello@thepanthaway.com www.thepanthaway.com @thepanthaway @thepanthaway
a century in the making
FOR DAVID AND HENRY, AGE IS JUST A NUMBER. BUT FOR THESE TWO CENTENARIANS, DISCOVERING A NEW FRIENDSHIP HAS BEEN THE KEY TO ENJOYING A NEW CHAPTER OF LIFE.
Words Kim White
Images Micaela Adams @roamwithmimi
105-year-old David Napper and his younger fellow centenarian 101-year-old Henry Harley, both live at Diggers Aged Care at Corrimal. The two have become great mates. They knew nothing about each other until they found themselves at Diggers.
Henry still walks, but he uses a wheelchair to get around for any more than a few steps and it is not uncommon to see his mate David behind the chair pushing him to morning tea. The two are often seen together at Diggers in the dining area and sitting side by side on bus trips. They enjoy each other’s company.
Despite different backgrounds, they share moments that can only be understood by a fellow centenarian. Just over 12 months ago, Henry celebrated his 100th birthday and was heading to the Lagoon restaurant with his family. David walked up to Henry and placed his hand on his friend’s shoulder saying, “You made it mate, welcome to the club.”
Vikki Wilesmith, Lifestyle Manager at Illawarra Diggers Aged Care, has watched their friendship grow and seen the benefits for both men. “Positive relationships are important, especially for our mental health, and never more important than as we age. Friendships that are established in care can become some of the most important in our lives.”
David and Henry had different stories prior to meeting at Diggers. Shaped by major global events that took place during the early part of their lives, both lived through the Depression and World War 2.
Henry was born at home in 1923, on Lippy Farm, Falkirk in Scotland. From the moment he could walk, he was working at the family dairy.
“Life was hard on the farm, there was nothing but rain and more rain, it was muddy and cold,” says Henry. “The hardship created a powerful bond within our family.”
In 1956, sick of the rain and the mud, he immigrated to Australia and eventually ended up in Bega. It was at a local community event Henry met Kim, a single mother with four children. Romance blossomed, and they were married in 1963. They settled on a forty-acre dairy farm in Tanja and had another child, a daughter, Linda.
In the late sixties, he quit the dairy industry and started working at the steelworks in Port Kembla and moved to a home in Fairy Meadow. His beloved Kim passed away at the age of 80 in 2011. A year later, with the help of his daughters, he returned to Scotland for a visit. It was the first time in 56 years he had been there.
Living independently until he was 99 years old, he reluctantly decided to go into full-time care at Diggers. Now settled, with his older mate, he has no regrets about the move.
David was born in October 1918. He had six brothers - one his twin - two older and three younger. His father, Clarence, was in the produce business. He plied his trade with a horse-drawn cart, and his mother Lily was a homemaker.
“Mum worked bloody hard, there was seven of us boys and Dad. Cooking and mending clothes was a full-time job, especially during the Depression and the war years.”
He grew up in what was a typical home of the era - a two-bedroom brick house in Rockdale, parents in one room, the youngest child in the other and the rest sleeping on bunk beds on the verandah.
“Mum worked bloody hard, there was seven of us boys and Dad. Cooking and mending clothes was a full-time job, especially during the Depression and the war years.”
“Diggers was the right choice for me. I knew it the second I walked into the place.”
David’s childhood was the standard fare for Aussie kids from the time - cricket, kites, and billy carts. High school days meant a punishing travel routine from Rockdale to Hurlstone Agricultural College involving three different trains and ninety minutes each way.
David served in the army in the war but was never posted overseas. He had two roles: one was chauffeuring the Colonel and the other manning the searchlights and the anti-aircraft guns in the pylons at each end of the Harbour Bridge.
He met and fell in love with Peggy at the Uniting Church in Rockdale. She was thirteen years younger than him. After a brief courtship, they were married in the same church. He was thirty-three years old. They purchased their first home in Brighton for the modest sum of three thousand pounds ($6,000) and ended up taking over his father’s produce business.
David and Peggy had two children, a son and daughter, Kevin and Verlee, five grandchildren and four great grandchildren - “the tribe brings me much joy.”
Following his surfer son Kevin to the Illawarra, David claims that he almost lost the will to live when his beloved Peggy passed away after over 60 years of marriage.
He has enjoyed an extraordinarily healthy life; he’s only ever had one hospital visit. A year ago, he had a fall and broke his collar bone. Despite his relatively good health, it was David’s decision to go into care.
“Diggers was the right choice for me. I knew it the second I walked into the place.” ¡
David
on Henry -
“He’s a quiet bloke.”
Henry on David“He’s a friendly fellow.”
Livistona Australis
The tall slender palm, growing up to 30 metres. Native to the east coast of Australia.
Images Micaela Adams
CABBAGE TREE PALM
Reuben and Adam
peking duk
ELECTRONIC DANCE DUO PEKING DUK ARE SET TO PERFORM AT THE YOURS & OWLS’ 10TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS IN OCTOBER. WE CAUGHT UP WITH REUBEN STYLES TO CHAT ABOUT THEIR HUMBLE BEGINNINGS IN CANBERRA, HIS PLANS TO TEASE BRAND NEW MUSIC AT THE Y&O PRE-PARTY, AND THAT ICONIC BUNNINGS RAVE.
Since forming in 2010, Peking Duk, made up of Adam Hyde and Reuben Styles, have amassed millions of streams and performed at countless shows across the world, yet it’s Wollongong they have a soft spot for. A city which they say, nurtured them in their formative years.
Reuben and Adam struck up an unlikely friendship in the nation's capital. They met at the then new Civic Centre Skatepark and Reuben says they should have been mortal enemies.
“I was a rollerblader and Adam was a skateboarder…you’re never meant to talk to each other,” said Reuben.
Although they went to different schools, they had briefly dated the same girl named Karli so had heard a lot about each other.
“I went over to him and was ‘like, hold up, are you Adam Hyde?’ He goes ‘no way, you’re Reuben Styles, aren’t you?’ and we instantly became best friends. So, a big shout out to Karli for linking up the boys.”
When year 11 rolled around they ended up enrolling in the same school and bonded over music at house parties.
“We’d always sneak off to wherever the guitars were and show each other all the new stuff we’d learnt, mostly from YouTube.”
Their passion for music escalated when they discovered Ben Colin, who is an electronic musician and producer. As fate would have it, he happened to live 50 metres down the road from Adam’s house. The boys ended up booking Ben to play at a house party they were throwing.
“After the set, we confessed that we only booked him because we were desperate to meet him. We asked him if he would come and jam with us sometime and he said yes. We brought him over to Adam’s house where we had a studio set up in his back gazebo,” said Reuben.
Ben showed Reuben and Adam the best production software to use and Reuben says they spent the next year at Ben’s house soaking up all his knowledge. It wasn’t long before they were taking off in Canberra.
“This crew called Uni Vibes used to throw parties for university students and we played for almost everyone. Then we started securing residences at nightclubs.”
Words Emma Smith Images Billy Zammit
“It’s one of those festivals we’ll never forget, and it’s awesome to be coming back for their 10-year anniversary.”
Peking Duk is no stranger to Wollongong. One of the first gigs they landed outside of Canberra was at iconic former nightclub ‘onefiveone’ and they have strong ties to homegrown festival Yours & Owls.
“I remember one year playing alongside Ocean Alley and Jack River on that field where all the bloody skydivers land. It was insane, it was the best festival and that really solidified that Wollongong goes harder than everywhere else. It’s one of those festivals we’ll never forget, and it’s awesome to be coming back for the 10-year anniversary.”
Despite forming 15 years ago, Peking Duk have never made an album, but that’s about to change.
“It’s so crazy how exciting this album has been because we’ve just done songs forever. Now, we’ve flipped the script and decided stuff this, let’s just do albums. We’ve been working on this for a minute now and I can confidently say it’s better than anything we’ve ever produced over the past 15 years, including our hits ‘High,’ ‘Take Me Over,’ and ‘Stranger.’ I’m going to put it out there...'. I reckon Yours & Owls is the perfect place to test a couple of our new songs for the first time.”
The Yours & Owls 10-year anniversary party is a lifeline for Aussie artists, with major music festivals around the country being increasingly cancelled. Reuben says places like Wollongong make him feel like there is still hope in the industry.
“It’s such a hub for nurturing new music and up-and-coming Aussie acts. I know North Gong platforms new artists all the time and the locals get behind it. I remember playing there around two years ago. I did a live show with a drag queen and people were engaging with me on social media for weeks, if not months afterward, asking me to come back and saying they’ve been listening to our music.”
More recently, Peking Duk have been championing a rave at Bunnings Warehouse. It might sound crazy, but it’s very real. It all started when producer and songwriter Kaila shared a remix of the iconic Bunnings jingle on TikTok with the caption ‘petition to host a massive rave in Bunnings' It went absolutely viral, racking up millions of views. The company themselves chimed in and commented ‘we’ll bring the decks.’
It didn’t take long for Peking Duk to throw their support behind the campaign and offer to play a set. They’ve since confirmed official talks with Bunnings are underway to get the wild idea off the ground.
“We’ve had something like 50,000 people comment on our post about it, saying which store they think it should be held in.”
Hardcore fans are hopeful the vacant Bunnings site in Wollongong could be a contender! ¡
See Peking Duk at Yours & Owls Festival 10th Birthday Party alongside Golden Features, Alice Ivy, Anna Lunoe, CXLOE, Hellcat Speedracer, Running Touch and Ninajirachi Saturday 12 October, University of Wollongong Tickets at yoursandowls.com.au
to play to relax to entertain to be entertained to eat & drink
A unique 27-hole championship golf course and clubhouse with restaurant and bars. Nestled on the shores of Batemans Bay since 1920.
MEMBERSHIPS FOR 2024/25 NOW OPEN FOR GOLF & SOCIAL MEMBERS.
Trent and Tanya
you can take that to the bank
WHEN TWO OF THE ILLAWARRA’S MOST INTERNATIONALLY RECOGNISED CREATIVE PROFESSIONALS, TRENT JANSEN AND TANYA VAN DER WATER, COLLABORATE, YOU CAN EXPECT AN OCCASION TO REMEMBER. HERE WE SHARE HOW THEIR STORIES
COLLIDE IN TANYA’S LATEST VENTURE, THE BANK SPACE IN PORT KEMBLA, AND THE UPCOMING ILLAWARRA FESTIVAL OF ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN.
Words Penny Keogh @eaves_content Images Lou Purvis and Louise Wellington
The Illawarra watched on with admiration as local business, Buckaroo Leatherworks, propelled into the ranks of one of Australia’s most popular exports. At the helm of this family business is Tanya Van Der Water.
In recent years though it was Tanya’s advocacy for the arts and creative industries that garnered local notice. By welcoming in artists to rent studios alongside her thriving manufacturing facility in Bellambi, Tanya created a space with an exciting energy and a source of pride for all involved.
In her latest venture, The Bank Space in the heart of Port Kembla, Tanya has saved a former bank, built in the mid-century, from ruin and transformed it into an artist's residency.
“I wanted to be a custodian of a building like that,” said Tanya. “It saddened me to think that this beautiful part of architectural history would be lost.
“Alongside interior designer Isa Stancourt and Bek Constructions, it took a year to restore it, because we wanted to keep the integrity.”
As a not-for-profit, The Bank Space is now a place for the community to gather. In between regularly hosting corporate functions, artists are welcomed
to take up residency. For as little as a few days to as long as a month, the Bank Space offers a free retreat for artists to immerse themselves in the history of the area and be inspired.
This uniquely generous contribution reflects Tanya’s passion to advance the creative spirit of the region and a gesture of thanks for all it's given to her family.
“The saying goes that you can only keep what you have by giving it away,” said Tanya. “You can’t expect the rewards of success to continue unless you’re prepared to share what you have with those who got you there.”
In that same spirit of advocacy and community generosity, Thirroul local and recent award winner of Vogue Living’s Australian Product Designer of the Year, Trent Jansen, finds himself co-curating another celebration of the region; the Illawarra Festival of Architecture & Design.
It seemed that both Trent and Tanya were destined to collaborate. With Tanya’s Buckaroo Leatherworks hosting last year’s festival, it was a natural fit that The Bank Space would host at least one of the many events featured in this year’s program.
“This year we hope to foster conversation on the important role these disciplines can play in designing more resilient communities in our region. ”
To a welcoming crowd of community guests and supporters of the Festival, Tanya hosted Trent alongside his architect friend and co-curator, Davin Turner of Studio Weave, at the recent festival launch event.
“I feel like I’m part of the community here and am pleased to bring my interests and knowledge, and experience back,” said Trent. “So much of what I do in design is outside this area, so this is a chance for me to bring that here.”
Off the back of a busy year exhibiting his furniture pieces in galleries in Milan, Canberra, Melbourne and more, it’s likely the region can expect an impressive calibre of events from Trent.
The festival will be split into five events over the weekend of the 26th and 27th of October.
The biggest event features on the Sunday where guests are invited to enjoy four panel discussions on the theme of ‘Designing Resilience’.
A veritable smorgasbord of industry celebrities will appear alongside Trent including Illawarra locals Gavin Hepper, who was recently crowned by the HIA as Australia’s best bathroom interior designer, alongside Margie Rahmann, the Director of esteemed local architecture firm, Edmiston Jones. Also featuring is internationally acclaimed Orange Is The New Black actor and entrepreneur, Yael Stone, who will talk about her ‘hi neighbour’ not-for-profit which supports renewable energy development and is reshaping the employment landscape.
The afternoon crescendos with the Brickworks keynote from one of the most famous architects in the country, William Smart, Founder of Smart Design Studio.
“It’s clear from last year’s success that people want to unite with new friends who value architecture and design,” said Trent. “This year we hope to foster conversation on the important role these disciplines can play in designing more resilient communities in our region.
“I’ll be joining a panel discussion on ‘Cultural Resilience’”, continued Trent. “I am very interested to learn how Gamilaraay-Dharug designer Bernadette Hardy and Yugambeh-BundjalungKannakan artist Juundaal Strang-Yettica are using their creative practices to foster resilient culture and Country.
“More than anything, it’s the wonderful support from locals like Tanya at The Bank Space and countless others who can make this event the celebration this region deserves, ”
Between panel discussions, attendees will be given the opportunity to chat over a drink and a bite to eat with fellow design enthusiasts. There will also be a child-minding service, offering mums and dads some time out while their children play.
For those in the region who include architects, building designers, builders, interior designers and more, the Festival team also welcomes submissions for the new IFAD House Awards. Winners will be announced at the Sunday 27 October event.
“More than anything, it’s the wonderful support from locals like Tanya at The Bank Space and countless others who can make this event the celebration this region deserves,” said Trent. ¡
The Illawarra Festival of Architecture and Design (IFAD) will be held on 26 and 27 October.
You can buy tickets or submit for the IFAD House awards at www.ifad.net.au
To register your interest to use The Bank Space, visit their Instagram page at @thebankspacepk
bathroom trends to inspire
REFRESH YOUR BATHROOM OASIS WITH STYLES THAT BLEND FORM WITH FUNCTION.
Words Hayley Griffiths @hayleyg.creative
Images Judith Russo @creativeeventsphotography
Project Connor Bathrooms
The bathroom is a true workhorse of the home yet should be equally inspiring to unwind in after a busy day. Although generally smaller in space than other areas of the home, it can still pack a punch design-wise. Embrace these bold styles and out-of-the-box trends to transform your bathroom into an oasis of style and comfort.
Brushed Brass Tapware
Brushed brass is a trending tapware finish, known for its beautiful appearance that makes it a focal point in any space. Brass tapware brings an elegant touch to bathrooms, complementing a variety of styles, from boho-luxe to moderncountry. With a warm finish, it pairs perfectly with a natural and earthy material palette. Being an organic finish, it is also a more environmentally friendly option than other finishes.
Subway Tiles
The clean lines and easy maintenance of subway tiles make them an ever-trending option for bathrooms. Now available in a variety of shapes, sizes, dynamic patterns and vibrant hues, subway tiles have evolved in leaps and bounds recently. There are endless options to get creative with subway tiles in your bathroom – even consider the way they are laid. Instead of a traditional brick lay, you can try stacking the tiles, either vertically or horizontally for a modern take.
Fluted Glass
This trending surface solves the common design dilemma of maintaining privacy while maximising natural light. Fluted glass shower screen and shower enclosures have become popular, and we can see why. Fluted glass has a unique, ribbed texture that adds visual interest and a modern aesthetic to any space. Consider complementing the glass with matte black steel framing to inject New York vibes in your bathroom.
Bold Colour Scheme
From bright statement tiles to colourful basins, there's nothing like a pop of colour to elevate a space and make it truly unique. Incorporate rich hues like emerald green, warm terracotta or navy blue in your own sanctuary to add a sense of sophisticated drama. Whether you go big with a statement hued wall or incorporate colourful fixtures and accessories in your bathroom, you can easily embrace this trend to invigorate your own bathroom.
Timber Finishes
A perfect way to infuse warmth and connection back to nature in a bathroom is by incorporating timber into the design, whether in vanities, wall panelling or mirror framing. For a sustainable option, reusing and reclaiming timber is ideal. Drawing inspiration from Scandinavian and Japanese designs, teak in particular is an excellent choice for bathrooms because of its rot-resistant properties. ¡
THERE ARE FEW BETTER FEELINGS THAN WINDING UP A LONG DAY WITH A TASTY DRINK. HERE ARE A FEW OF THE ILLAWARRA’S HAPPIEST HAPPY HOURS FOR YOU TO TRY OUT!
Words Analise Greenhalgh
Ilu Ilu Bar
Shop 5, 10-18 Regent Street
Wollongong
Ilu Ilu Bar is an intimate Indian-inspired cocktail and tapas bar, located in the heart of Wollongong. Their cocktail menu draws on a range of weird and wacky ingredients to create delicious drinks. For fans of coffee, try the Spiced Espresso Martini; a concoction of Kraken spiced rum, espresso, spiced syrup and Kahlua. Their tapas menu is also available for you to try some of their delicious food including samosa chaat and butter chicken fondue.
Happy hour at Ilu Ilu runs on Wednesday to Friday between 4pm and 6pm, and 2pm and 4pm on Saturdays. Stay longer on Thursdays or Fridays for some beautiful live music!
Five Barrel Brewing
318 Keira Street, Wollongong
Five Barrel Brewing is a local brewery that produces craft beers. Their taproom is located in the middle of Wollongong and is open seven days of week for you to enjoy a schooner or two.
Their on-site food truck is also open from Thursday to Sunday so you can grab a bite to eat. One of their particularly popular options is the simple cheeseburger that contains a delicious tomato and apple relish.
Five Barrel Brewing runs a happy hour Monday to Friday between 3:30pm to 5:30pm. You can grab a schooner from $6 and a middy from $5.
Grand Hotel Kiama
49 Manning Street, Kiama
One of the Illawarra region’s oldest pubs, the Grand Hotel in Kiama has lots to offer. Enjoy a $12 cocktail between 5pm and 7pm.
For members, there’s an additional happy hour between 4pm and 6pm where you can grab a glass of wine or a tap beer for $5.50.
Check out their bistro as well for some great weeknight dinner deals!
North Beach Pavilion
5 Cliff Road, North Wollongong
Sit back with a cocktail and take in the coastline at North Beach Pavilion every Thursday to Sunday from 4pm to 6pm. You can grab a $7 beer or wine or a signature cocktail for $15.
Watch dusk descend over North Gong Beach as you enjoy your drink. Ranging from a Pink Gin Spritz to their Maverick Espresso Martini, there’s something for every taste. If you’re feeling peckish, try one of their woodfired pizzas! ¡
five easy ways to be more sustainable at home
HERE ARE OUR FAVOURITE TIPS THAT WILL HELP YOU BECOME MORE ECO-FRIENDLY AT HOME.
Words Hadassa Rorke
The global warming crisis, green energy, and wind farms are important topics on everyone's lips. With so much information available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what you can do. Whether you're just starting your journey towards a more sustainable living or looking to enhance your eco-conscious efforts, small decisions can make a big impact over time. So, don't underestimate the power of your choices!
Let’s look at five tips that are budget, family and eco-friendly:
1. Stop using warm water
Did you know that by using cold water instead of warm water, you can significantly reduce your energy consumption and carbon footprint? It's a simple change that has a big impact. Not only will it help the planet and keep your clothes looking vibrant, but it will also reduce your energy bills.
2. Grow your food or buy locally
Starting to grow your own food can be a truly fulfilling experience. If you’re new to gardening, it is best to begin with easy-to-grow foods like herbs, tomatoes, carrots, and lettuce. Alternatively, you could opt to purchase seasonal foods from local farmers and co-ops. This not only supports local businesses but also helps to reduce emissions by decreasing the amount of imported foods that need to be transported.
3. Start a compost
Having a small and beautiful green garden or balcony around your living spaces is undoubtedly one of the best ways to make your home more enjoyable. It not only brings in fresh clean air but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of your living space. To reduce waste, you can use your leftover fruits and veggies as biodegradable compost. Composting is not only for those with big backyards. You’d be surprised about the composting options for super-small spaces.
4. Unplug your devices
Did you know that plugged-in devices or chargers waste energy even when not in use? By unplugging devices when fully charged or not in use you can reduce your energy usage and waste, ultimately leading to a greener and healthier planet. Consider investing in smart outlets or plugs that regulate energy usage and help save on your electricity bill.
5. Use eco-friendly cleaning products (or make your own!)
Many products that we use daily contain harmful ingredients that can harm both people and nature. Choosing eco-friendly alternatives that use green ingredients, offer refills, and use plasticfree shipping options can make a real difference. With the help of independent apps, you can identify healthy products that are beneficial for us and the planet. Alternatively, you can also get creative and make your own products using ingredients that you already have at home. ¡
Okay, nobody can resist a nostalgic TLC reference. But we’re not entirely predictable here in the Illawarra. As much as we may be a proud bunch of beach-loving coastal dwellers, there’s so much more to discover when we look inward… towards the Illawarra Escarpment that is.
In our surrounding lush rainforests and national parks, a whole world of quiet and not-so-quiet waterfalls flow, perfect for a fresh springtime adventure. Pack a picnic and explore five of our favourites, perfect for active hikes or easy strolls.
Cascades Walk
Located in Macquarie Pass National Park at the bottom of the escarpment, Cascades Walk is a moderately easy amble with high rewards. Disappear into the shady ferns and stay cool in the dappled sunlight as you follow the creek upstream to a waterfall oasis. At approximately two kilometres return, this walk is suitable for families and casual hikers alike. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and relax at the Cascades picnic area after your adventure.
Best for: Casual hikers, families and those looking for a moderate walk with a refreshing swim at the end.
Minnamurra Falls
A visit to Minnamurra Falls is like stepping into a rainforest fairy tale. Start your adventure just outside Jamberoo at the Minnamurra Rainforest Centre, where you’ll be guided carefully into the wild via a raised boardwalk. Choose to take it easy with the kids by staying on the beautiful Lyrebird loop walk, or get your steps in on the longer Minnamurra Falls walk.
Best for: All ages and fitness levels, nature lovers and those who appreciate wellmaintained paths.
Carrington Falls
Located at the top of the escarpment in Budderoo National Park, Carrington Falls is a spectacular sight to behold. Dropping 50 metres into the Kangaroo River, the falls are home to a range of walking tracks and lookouts to suit most abilities, while Nellies Glen picnic area is a magical spot for a refreshing dip. Be sure to follow all signage and check conditions before you take the plunge.
Best for: Families, picknickers and those looking for a variety of scenic walks.
Carrington Falls
Fitzroy Falls
Back up to our neighbours in the Southern Highlands, Fitzroy Falls is a well-trodden spot for every waterfall enthusiast. However, don’t take it for granted; the majestic sight of the Kangaroo River plummeting 80 metres into the valley below never gets old. The falls are easily accessible via a short boardwalk from the award-winning visitor centre. For the more adventurous, the nearby East Rim Wildflower and West Rim walking tracks provide numerous vantage points to view falls from different angles.
Best for: All ages, families, those with limited mobility (main lookout), and avid hikers (rim tracks).
Gerringong Falls
Looking for something more adventurous? Gerringong Falls offers an unforgettable, Instafamous experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. Start at Budderoo Plateau Fire Trail off Jamberoo Mountain Road to reach the top of the falls via a challenging hike through dense forest. The journey requires careful planning and preparation, but the sight of these remote falls cascading into the deep gorge is a reward like no other.
Due to its remote location and difficult conditions, it’s essential to be well-prepared. Do your research, carry supplies and inform someone of your plans before setting out.
Best for: Experienced hikers, adventure seekers and those well-prepared for a challenging trek. ¡
• Nellies Glen, Robertson
• Kellys Falls, Stanwell Tops
• Maddens Falls, Darkes Forest
• Belmore Falls, Barrengarry
Belmore Falls
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TAG US IN YOUR PICS ON INSTAGRAM & WE WILL PRINT OUR FAVES EACH ISSUE. GET SNAPPING!
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green connections
A NEW PROGRAM AT GREEN CONNECT COMMUNITY FARM IS TEACHING MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES TO YOUNG ADULTS, HELPING THEM TO CONNECT WITH WHAT IS IMPORTANT.
Words Dr Joel Hoffman, Escarpment Clinical Psychology
“As soon as you are ready, go ahead and pick up a chicken. ”
I’m standing in a chicken run surrounded by a couple of hundred brown chickens on the Green Connect Farm in Warrawong. With me are a group of young adults from Warrawong High School. The chickens are pecking our feet and squawking for food. Amidst the noisy chaos and strong smell of manure, I turn to address the group.
“As soon as you are ready, go ahead and pick up a chicken.”
This exercise is part of the Green Connections Group, which was created this year through Club Grant funding to help young adults build connections to nature, themselves and others. The group involves mindfulness-based exercises followed by a discussion on wooden log-seats in a quiet corner of the farm. There is strong evidence that mindfulness improves attention, emotional regulation, mental health, memory and learning. Hence, the chickens.
Connecting to the present moment
A primary goal of mindfulness is to help us connect to the present moment. To not get stuck in our heads, worrying about the future, past, or how
others are perceiving us, but rather be connected to our bodies in the here and now.
One way we can do this is through our five senses. As the students hold their chickens, we go through each sense and ask what they notice. One student notices the different sizes of combs, the fleshy red outcrop on chickens’ heads. We talk about whether we can feel a chicken’s heartbeat against our bodies, if we can notice different sounds the chickens make, and anything we can smell apart from the dominant manure stench.
All of these senses connect us to our body, to the subtle, sensory experiences available to us each day.
“The program also offers a safe, non-judgmental, and caring environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts. ”
Slowing down and self-regulating
Mindfulness can also help us get out of autopilot, slow down, and self-regulate. I notice this in some students on the periphery, choosing not to wrestle a flapping chicken, but instead having a calm and quiet moment by handfeeding them.
Nature can be a great antidote for stress, whether getting out in the bush or the ocean, and it’s a great way to help us regulate our emotions. It forces us to slow down and breathe deeply. Seeing some of the students engage in these calm moments, reminds me that we do this naturally when in contact with nature. Sometimes we just forget to stay connected.
Accepting what’s uncomfortable
Sometimes mindfulness can be confused with simple relaxation. However, being mindful of negative emotions and uncomfortable experiences is an important key to mindfulness. I notice a couple of students feeling nervous about picking up a chicken, and then giving up after a couple of failed attempts.
We discuss what they’re feeling, and ask if they could allow that feeling to be there while trying again. One student tries again and the chicken starts flapping in their face, but they hold on and the chicken eventually calms down, and I watch them smile with a sense of accomplishment.
Dylan Fisher, support teacher at Warrawong High School, has seen first-hand the benefits of the Green Connections program.
“It is perfectly tailored to my students. Each week, the students learn new and engaging strategies they can implement in their lives to help them identify their feelings, be okay with those feelings, and become more present,” says Dylan.
“The program also offers a safe, non-judgmental and caring environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.”
So much of life, for a young adult or anyone really, is about facing challenging moments and moving through them, rather than away.
Being mindful of difficult emotions - fear, sadness, anger and embarrassment - being able to let them be there, and still move towards what is important to us, is a lifelong pursuit.
But each day, we have small wins where we can, and do move through a challenge rather than move away. On this day, for this student, it was picking up a chicken. ¡
Cheeseburgers @ Five Barrels Brewing
GIO Wollongong is an Authorised Representative of AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 trading as GIO. Before buying this insurance issued by GIO read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement. Go to gio.com.au for a copy. TMD also available.
Authorised by Alison Byrnes MP, ALP, Wollongong
meet a neighbour
How long have you lived in the Illawarra? Since 2018. I grew up in Forbes, a small town in the central west
What do you love about living and working in the area? I love the easy life style and friendly people. It feels like a country town on the sea. Great place to raise a family
Favourite cafe or restaurant? Frank and Beans in East Corrimal and Towradgi Bowlo
Ideal start to the day? 5am walk to the beach with Patrick (our Great Dane) or out and about with the family with zero complaining from the kids! ¡
Josh TilleyTowradgi
hey brew
MEET RAQUEL FROM LILI J CAFÉ IN WOLLONGONG
How did Lili J Cafe come about? We started with Meni Cafe in 2012 across the road from Wollongong Hospital. We then opened Lili J Cafe in 2016 with the plan for it to be an espresso bar with specialty coffee rotating each week/month to showcase different coffees, but we have since grown into a full-on cafe.
Tell us about your recent expansion… It was always our dream to have a space that felt inviting and self-sustaining, and with more space this has started to become viable. We have started up a greenhouse to grow our own produce - not only providing for our kitchen, but to give our customers some seedlings to grow themselves, which is very exciting!
Your favourite thing about your location? Our customers for sure! We have the best customers around and we wouldn’t be where we are today without them.
What type of coffee do you use and why? We use Reuben Hills. They are one of the best specialty coffee roasters, not only in NSW but in Australia.
What’s your secret to the perfect blend?
Taste, taste and retaste. We are always tasting and changing our recipes each day to make sure our customers get the best.
If you buy coffee from another spot in the Illawarra, where do you go? There are many great cafes but some of our favourites are Lee and Me, Uncle Earls, Opus, Lower East, Utopis and Goodies. They all do an amazing job! ¡
Lili J Cafe 156 Corrimal St, Wollongong @lili.j.cafe
FUNDED USING PARLIAMENTARY ENTITLEMENTS.
UOW to Belmore Basin
be Right comedy and variety show, The Servo Port Kembla
Illawarra Schools Comp - Cringila Hills NSWThe Rocky Trail Academy
Coastal Classic 30km Trail Run, from Otford to Bundeena
Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour, Anita's Theatre
Urban Craft beer crawl, Wollongong venues Music for Medicine: A Fundraiser Concert for The Flying Doctors, Wollongong Town Hall
Wild Weekend, Bundanon
Folds Zine Fair, Coledale Community
Australian Chamber Orchestra presents 'Tognetti. Mendelssohn. Bach.', Wollongong Town Hall
the Makers Festival, Milton
Made From Scratch, Wollongong Town Hall
Said Poetry Slam - The Forge Artspace (last Thursday of every month)
Hero Scavenge for Convoy, Light Railway
Fillmores Kiama
Wollongong
Illawarra
the quiz
Credit: Paul Boultwood and Simon Nutt
1. Who carried the Olympic flag for Australia in the 2024 Summer Olympic Opening ceremony?
2. Which animal can hold its breath the longest?
3. What is the name of the toy cowboy in Toy Story?
4. What is the name of the oldest home in Wollongong?
5. In what year did Gotye release Somebody That I Used To Know?
6. What is the collective noun for a group of flamingos?
7. Travis Kelce (aka Taylor plays for which NFL team?
8. Which country has the most natural lakes?
9. What is the tiny piece at shoelace called?
10. Which country won the EUFA Euro 2024 final?
11. The first drive through Maccas in Australia was opened in which Wollongong suburb?
12. Which international singer is to play at the 2024 AFL Grand Final?
13. What is the name of the Queen in Bridgerton?
14. What is the name of Cinderella’s dog?
15. Who has won the most Academy Awards for acting?
16. Which classic game came with the Nokia 6110 mobile phone?
17. What is the capital city of Luxembourg?
18. In computer terminology what does PDF stand for?
19. Wollongong is how many metres above sea level?
