Winter Nights
Bright Lights
Bold Ideas
Un[contained] Arts Festival Returns to Kogarah
Mayor's Message Contents
Welcome to the Winter edition of Community Magazine! It’s been a busy few months here in Georges River, with fantastic events, new infrastructure projects, and community plans.
We recently unveiled the Blackshaw Gould Community Pavilion at Hurstville Oval. It was wonderful to have three generations of Les Blackshaw’s family join us and celebrate our local sporting history.
The Hurstville Revitalisation Project is also now complete, including the reinstallation of a statue of the great Australian literary figure and feminist, Miles Franklin, in MacMahon Courtyard.
On the World Day of Social Justice, we launched our Social Justice Charter Plan with Council’s five Advisory Committees. It was a meaningful day for our community.
Our events and festivals celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Georges River, bringing joy, entertainment, and a sense of unity to our residents.
International Women’s Day breakfast was especially memorable with an inspiring speech from Kath Koschel, who reminded us of the power of kindness.
Australia’s largest Eurovision Live Broadcast Party on Mother’s Day was a hit! Over 500 people gathered at Marana Auditorium at 4.30am to watch Switzerland win the grand final.
It was great to see a strong youth turnout for GRYfest, Georges River Youth Festival over three days. Local youth bands rocked out at Battle of the Beats, we saw eightyear-olds and eighty-year-olds strategise at the popular Intergenerational Chess Competition, and we watched skate masters dazzle at the Olds Park Youth Festival.
We also had our first Seniors Expo during Seniors Month, which saw a great attendance. It was a fantastic opportunity for our seniors to learn about available services and programs.
I’m thrilled to have started Culture in Colour: Mayor’s Art Competition, allowing local students to express what their significant days mean to them through art. You may have seen the Anzac Day banners around the local area that were designed by local year-three student, Lyvia.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to announce the return of our Un[contained] Arts Festival this July. This year’s theme, Winter Nights, Bright Lights, and Bold Ideas, will light up Belgrave Street in Kogarah. It’s a free, family-friendly event, and I hope to see you all there from July 19-21.
Enjoy the winter edition of Community with a hot drink, and make sure to mark these events on your calendar!
FEATURES
03. Winter Nights, Bright Lights, Bold Ideas - Un[contained] is back!
04. International Women's Day
05. Celebrating Seniors Pride Month
06. Eurovision Live Broadcast Party
08. GRYFest 2024
10. Blackshaw Gould Community Pavilion Opening
11. Official Opening of Hurstville Revitalisation Project
New Social Justice Charter Plan to foster a more inclusive community
12. Community Champion Daniel Long
14. Local Government Elections
15. Culture in Colour; Mayor’s Art Competition Kurranulla Women’s Group visit South Hurstville Kindergarten
16. We Value the Night
17. Discover Georges River: A New Tourism Website
18. 1X4 Exhibition
20. Exhibit Your Work
21. Our Iconic Synagogue Stands The Test of Time
22. What's On in Georges River
COVER
Sam Elmir Mayor, Georges River Council
Georges River Council acknowledges the Bidjigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the Traditional Custodians of all lands, waters and sky in the Georges River area. Council recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as an integral part of the Georges River community and values their social and cultural contributions. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who live work and meet on these lands.
Image: Fantastic Planet, What's That by Amanda Parer.
Photo by Amanda Parer.
Winter Nights, Bright Lights, Bold IdeasUn[contained] is back!
Georges River Council’s Un[contained] Arts Festival is back in Kogarah this winter from Friday 19 July to Sunday 21 July 2024. Get ready for 'Winter Nights, Bright Lights, Bold Ideas'!
Now in its fourth year, this lively festival is sponsored by VJB Group and Sydney Water. Expect art, installations, live performances, and a mouth-watering array of food trucks at Kogarah Town Square along Belgrave Street.
Ditch the traditional gallery vibe and dive into themes like sustainability, environment, technology, and AI. This festival is all about community and creativity, welcoming everyone to join in the fun and celebrate the vibrant Georges River area.
Un[contained] 2024 will showcase a dazzling array of art and performances that explore a wide range of themes and experiences. Expect to see interactive installations that blend nature and technology and light-based artworks that reveal hidden stories in public spaces. You'll find mesmerizing displays of light and motion, experience digital image-making, contemporary dance celebrating the life cycle of stars, and interactive AI tarot readings. Imaginative murals bursting with vibrant patterns and creations inspired by nature’s wonders will also be on display.
In the Clouds Together by Damien Butler
Bloom by Sway
International Women’s Day
Georges River Council celebrated kindness, inclusion, and the wonderful contributions women make in our community at the fourth International Women's Day breakfast at Hurstville in March.
Community members were invited to attend the breakfast and networking event at the Southern Sydney Event Centre, featuring Mortdale local and internationally acclaimed motivational speaker Kath Koschel as the guest speaker.
This year’s theme was 'Inspire Inclusion', echoing Kath Koschel's life and work. Kath Koschel is known for establishing the Kindness Factory, an initiative aimed at promoting and celebrating small acts of kindness on social media. After a personal tragedy led her to reassess her life's purpose, Kath became passionate about spreading kindness and positivity in the world.
The event was a wonderful success, attracting a diverse crowd of men, women, and local senior school students. It served as a celebration that honoured and commemorated the remarkable achievements of women who have championed the cause of inclusivity and empowerment.
The St George Business Chamber sponsored the event, facilitating the gathering of esteemed guests such as the Georges River Council Mayor Sam Elmir, Deputy Mayor, and Georges River Councillors, along with Federal Member for Banks, Mr. David Coleman, and Member for Oatley, Mr. Mark Coure.
Attendees also received a video message from the Minister for Women, The Hon. Jodie Harrison, MP, adding a welcoming touch to the proceedings.
Guest speaker Kath Koschel
Pride Month 2024
During Pride Month June 2024, a range of events and initiatives demonstrating support for LGBTQIA+ communities were held in Georges River.
Events included Rainbow Storytimes and Pride Book Club at Georges River Libraries, as well as the Draw your Inner Drag Queen workshop at Hurstville Museum & Gallery and a live mural activation in Hurstville Plaza, painted by Meg Minkley.
Community members learnt more about how to be a strong ally at Unravelling the Acronym: LGBTQIA+ with broadcaster for the award-winning Chicks Talking Footy show, Fiona Newton, including one session with a Mandarin Interpreter.
Pride support was also on show at sporting grounds across Georges River. Throughout Pride Month, five rainbow benches were unveiled at sporting grounds in Georges River so that everyone can feel safe and welcome when playing or supporting sport in Georges River.
Sports fans also attended the first local Pride Cup at Olds Park. Georges River Council proudly partnered with Pride Cup and St George AFL to bring this very special first Cup to the Georges River community.
Celebrating Seniors
Community members and NSW visitors enjoyed NSW Seniors Festival celebrations including our Seniors Expo in March.
The NSW Seniors Festival ran from 11-24 March with the theme ‘Reach Beyond: Seek new experiences, make new friends’. This year several events were held in Georges River throughout the two-week period including a Seniors Expo, Reminiscing Baby Explorers sessions at Hurstville Museum & Gallery, and a Seniors Concert at Marana Auditorium.
Council’s Seniors Expo theme was “Get Connected and Make New Friends”. Kipling Ho, a member of Georges River Council’s Seniors Advisory Committee said the activities were “an opportunity for our seniors to connect to the rich tapestry in our community.”
The Advisory Committee worked with Council to ensure that activities on offer provide “an opportunity to gain new experiences, learn a new skill, and explore what Council and local services have on offer year-round for seniors”.
The aim of the activities were to reduce social isolation, foster community connections and for attendees to gain knowledge of local services available.
Georges River Council’s Senior Advisory Committee member, Kipling Ho.
Pride mural by Meg Minkley
Eurovision Live Broadcast Party 2024
Georges River Council hosted a spectacular fifth annual Eurovision Live Broadcast Party at Hurstville's Marana Auditorium to see Switzerland take out the grand final on Sunday 12 May.
Australia’s largest Eurovision live Broadcast Party started at 4.30am, and brought together over 500 Eurovision enthusiasts, music lovers, and families alike, in a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community.
Coinciding with Mother’s Day many mums also joined the event to dance, sing, and be served free hot coffee and breakfast.
Attendees were treated to a Swedish adventure as the event paid homage to Sweden's hosting of the 2024 Eurovision contest in Malmö and commemorated the 50th anniversary of ABBA's iconic Eurovision win in 1974 with "Waterloo".
The Marana Auditorium was transformed into a European wonderland, adorned with lighting displays reminiscent of the northern lights and Swedish-themed decor that added to the immersive experience.
The morning kicked off with a Swedish-style smorgasbord featuring Swedish meatballs and cinnamon rolls, providing attendees with a true taste of Sweden.
The highlight of the event was the performance by FABBA, the ultimate ABBA live band show, who entertained the crowd
with renditions of ABBA's greatest hits. There was also a special video played on the big screen from Cyprus entrant, Australian Silia Kapsis, wishing the Hurstville crowd a wonderful morning.
Attendees danced the morning away, cheering on entries and enjoying entertaining activations like the 360 spinning camera. The event also featured a Best Dressed competition, where attendees showcased their Eurovision-inspired outfits for a chance to win an array of Eurovision merchandise. After the votes were counted and winner announced, attendees took to the dance floor for the Euro Disco.
GRYFest 2024
Georges River Youth Festival, GRYFest, returned this year in celebration of Youth Week 2024! Georges River Council hosted multiple free events in the local government area.
GRYFest was designed in consultation with Council’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) and local youth services to ensure it aligns with the needs and interests of our younger generation. Local youth were invited to come along and celebrate the fantastic contributions that young people make throughout the community.
As part of GRYFest, Council partnered with 3Bridges Youth Zone to deliver a favourite from last year – Battle of the Beats. Battle of the Beats is a youth music competition showcasing young, amateur musicians from Georges River. Four musicians, Overboard, Zephyr, TBD and Indi competed on stage for prizes to support their musical journey.
Another old favourite returned with the support of Kogarah Community Services – the Intergenerational Chess Competition. Council also invited the community to Olds Park in Penshurst
for the Olds Park Youth Festival with special guests, pro skaters Chima Ferguson and Shaun Paul.
About Georges River Council’s YAC Council’s YAC are passionate about improving outcomes for local youth. They do this through advocacy and direct involvement in projects designed to support fellow young people. The YAC is involved in Youth Week by offering leadership in the development of events. They provide advice for a range of areas, from what events will be offered and when, the selection of venues and the talent.
Interested in joining Georges River Council’s YAC? For more information or to join, make sure you complete the registration form on the Young People page on Council’s website.
Blackshaw Gould Community Pavilion Opening
In May, Georges River Council officially opened the Blackshaw Gould Community Pavilion at Hurstville Oval, in recognition of the contributions of local sporting legends Les Blackshaw and Nell Gould.
Gould and Blackshaw were influential figures in their respective fields, making lasting impacts on sports and their communities. Gould excelled in women’s athletics, competing internationally, and co-founding the St George District Women’s Athletic Club. She coached athletes at prestigious events like the 1954 Empire Games and the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. Maintaining strong ties with her club, she received an Order of Australia Medal in 1987 for her contributions to sport and the community.
Les Blackshaw, dubbed ‘the father of cricket’ in St George, served as Hurstville Mayor in 1911. He was integral to the St George District Cricket Club as president from 1930-46 and supported various local sports clubs.
Mayor Cr Sam Elmir and Member for Barton, the Hon Linda Burney MP, unveiled a plaque, joined by Georges River Councillors. Three generations of Les Blackshaw’s family, including his daughter Sue Herron, attended to honour his legacy.
The pavilion is now open for the public. The lower floor of the pavilion is equipped for all sports use with change rooms and referee quarters, and the upper room is available for community hire.
This project was proudly funded by the NSW Government in association with Georges River Council under the Stronger Communities Fund and Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Help us tell the story of Hurstville Oval
The display cabinet in the Blackshaw Gould Community Pavilion provides a space where we can celebrate the diverse range of sports, athletic achievements and personalities that have been connected with Hurstville Oval over time.
If you have sporting memorabilia or photographs that you would like to display please contact the Hurstville Museum and Gallery museumgallery@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au.
The Blackshaw Gould Community Pavilion official opening saw Mayor Clr Sam Elmir and Member for Barton, The Hon Linda Burney MP welcome Les Blackshaw’s daughter Sue Herron (seated), granddaughters Helen Bruce and Catherine Wilkinson (with husband Paul Wilkinson) and great-grandsons, James Wilkinson and William Sudell.
Official Opening of Hurstville Revitalisation Project
In April Georges River Council officially opened Memorial Square and MacMahon Courtyard. Mayor Cr Sam Elmir and Member for Granville, The Hon Julia Finn MP, attended the opening, joined by Georges River Councillors.
The Hurstville Revitalisation Project involved the upgrade of both MacMahon Courtyard and Memorial Square.
MacMahon Courtyard located at the corner of Dora and MacMahon Streets, Hurstville, focused on improvements to the site’s infrastructure, pedestrian access, traffic safety and the installation of additional seating and landscaping.
Memorial Square, located adjacent to Forest Road in the Hurstville CBD, included the installation of new paving, retaining walls, street furniture, landscaping and associated works to improve site aesthetics, usability, and visibility of the retained Memorial Cenotaph.
The project also saw the reinstallation of a statue within MacMahon Courtyard of Australian literary figure and feminist Miles Franklin, with the plinth faced towards the adjacent heritage Ritz Hotel.
The project was proudly funded by the NSW Government to deliver the transformation of both sites.
Members of Council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee with Council’s Disability and Inclusion Officer on the launch day.
New Social Justice Charter Plan to foster a more inclusive community
In a transformative leap towards a more inclusive and equitable community, Council officially launched its Social Justice Charter Plan on the World Day of Social Justice in February.
This visionary plan is the culmination of Council’s extensive consultation with key community groups to determine practical ways in which Council can champion the principles of its Social Justice Charter 2022–2026.
Council’s Social Justice Charter Plan was launched at a capacity building and networking event run for members of Council’s five Advisory Committees on 20 February 2024, which is World Day of Social Justice. Deputy Mayor Elise Borg officially launched the Plan and Councillors had the opportunity to network with key community stakeholders.
The Social Justice Charter 2022-2026 was launched on World Day of Social Justice in 2023, with the new Social Justice Charter Plan an accompanying document that outlines strategic approaches to embedding those principles within all of Council’s practices, services and programs.
The principles of the Charter – participation, equity, respect, and empowerment – provide a strong framework to guide Council’s efforts to support human rights and enable capacity building and resilience within the Georges River community.
The new Plan outlines five key focus areas; Connected Communities, Safe Places and Spaces, Economic Empowerment, Civic Participation, and Good Governance.
For more details or to read the Charter or Charter Plan, see Council’s Social Justice webpage.
COMMUNITY CHAMPION
Daniel Long
Georges Estate Health & Aged Care Community resident and WW11 Veteran, Daniel Long, was born in Buckinghamshire, Great Britian, in January 1920. He recently received a “Thank you from Australia” medal at the homes commemoration service before ANZAC Day in April.
He joined the British army reserves before joining full-time at the start of the war, becoming a machine gunner, serving in France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Mr Long was in the D-Day landing in France in 1944 and only survived as he was mistaken for dead laying unconscious in a deep crater.
When the war finished, Mr Long was in the forces of occupation for three years. He went on to learn to cook and bake, and worked in restaurants around England. When he moved to Australia in 1965, he became a Qantas chef and was married to his late wife Annie for 75 years.
We spoke to him about his life, accomplishments and what he deems important at 104 years old.
Community Champion, Daniel Long and Georges Estate Penshurst lifestyle coordinator Amber Heywood.
What do you love about your community at Georges Estate? They are very nice people. I’ve been living here at Georges Estate for the past 18 months.
What are your favourite hobbies?
I like music. I like Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, Andre Rieu and old war songs. When Georges Estate has concerts every month, I like to sing and I know every word to every song. I used to love singing when I was younger, I’d sing in my garden and house. I also loved growing roses, but I didn’t start growing them until my wife Annie died. I made a memorial garden for her. The roses were yellow, white, red and pink.
What are you most proud of in your 104 years?
I was married to my wife Annie for 75 years. We had our ups and downs like everyone else, but we were very happy. I have five children, six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. I’m most proud of my marriage. My wife was such a wonderful wife. She was a good cook, and her roasts were always good.
How do you feel about receiving a “Thank you from Australia medal” just before ANZAC Day this year?
David Johns and Bryan Brown from Kogarah RSL subbranch gave me the medal in a special presentation. I was tickled pink by it. It made me quite proud. I was in the army before the war began. My advice to the Governments now would be to make peace a priority. The war does horrible things to families. There should be no war, there is no excuse for warfare.
What is your advice to your community?
To aim for peace in the community and being kind to one another. You should always help out your mates and your neighbours.
What is the secret to living to 104?
No secret. Good food, good friends, and good family.
What was your favourite thing to cook when you were a Qantas chef after the war?
My Greek moussaka. On my long service leave, my family and I hired a caravan and we travelled around England. We went to a restaurant and we all ordered something different. My daughter Vickie said, “Dad I had the moussaka but it wasn’t as good as yours.”
Are you our next Community Champion?
We’re on the hunt to feature our next community hero, someone who has positively impacted the Georges River community. If this sounds like you or someone you know, please complete the submission form online here.
Local Government Election
The next election of the Councillors of Georges River Council will be held on 14 September 2024. Voting is compulsory for people who are enrolled to vote in the Georges River local government area.
You can make sure that your personal enrolment details are up to date by using the checking tool on the NSW Electoral Commission website
Alternatively, you, or an organisation that you are associated with, may be eligible to be included on a non-residential roll. There are two types of these rolls:
• The roll of non-resident owners of rateable land
• The roll of occupiers and rate-paying lessees
You must register before 6.00pm on Friday, 5 August 2024. Learn more about this option on the NSW Electoral Commission website
Interested in becoming a Councillor? If you are passionate about what happens in the Georges River local government area perhaps you should consider becoming a Councillor. It is a wonderful opportunity to represent the community and make an important difference to the local area.
Helpful information on being a Councillor can be found on the NSW Office of Local Government website.
Georges River Libraries Great Big Book Sale
Georges River Libraries offered a vast selection of books, CDs, DVDs, and more at the Great Big Book Sale at Mortdale Community Centre recently.
Families enjoyed a fun day out with story times, face painting, and craft activities, with complimentary coffee or gelato at the nearby Jubilee Park Adventure Playground.
Members of Georges River Libraries received discounted prices and enjoyed a member’s only hour, allowing extra time to browse what’s on offer.
Georges River Council Wins Fourth Gold For Annual Report
It's GOLD! Again!
We are proud of our team for achieving gold four years in a row at the recent Australasian Reporting Awards for our annual report.
The Australasian Reporting Awards exists to improve the standards of reporting. The annual report is an essential mechanism of accountability, and a vital element in the governance process. The General Award provides a measure of the standard of reporting that has been achieved. We won gold in the public administration local sector category for the fourth year in a row.
We were also a finalist for Best of Sector in Public Administration Local category for The Report of the Year Award.
This award is presented to the most outstanding annual report entered in the General Award for each category. The winner is selected from among the gold winners of the Best of Industry Sector Awards. Georges River Council was a finalist in the top 3 of 75 gold award winners.
You can view the award winning Annual Report on Council’s Annual Report’s website page.
Culture in Colour; Mayor’s Art Competition
Georges River Council was pleased to announce the first winner of Culture in Colour, the Mayor’s art competition for children.
Year three student Lyvia was the winning artist who was selected by Georges River Mayor Sam Elmir for her artwork about ANZAC Day. Lyvia’s design was proudly presented on Council banners and Council-owned digital screens across the local government area.
Mayor Sam Elmir said, “I’m thrilled that my art competition has provided an opportunity for our young local artists to give us their colourful interpretation of days that are important to them.
“This competition serves as a platform for children to unleash their creativity, develop their skills, build confidence, foster inclusivity, engage with the community, and inspire others. They play a significant role in promoting artistic expression and appreciation while encouraging individuals to explore significant milestones important to Georges River Council residents.
“A big congratulations goes to Lyvia our first competition winner on her interpretation of what ANZAC Day means to her.”
Culture in Colour, the Mayor’s Art Competition provides an opportunity for primary school children in the Georges River area to showcase their artistic talents by creating artwork celebrating the cultural days that are special to them.
Other winners will be revealed during the year as Council continues to celebrate and promote diverse days of cultural significance.
To learn more visit Council’s web page for the Culture in Colour, the Mayor’s Art Competition.
Kurranulla Women’s Group visit South Hurstville Kindergarten
At Georges River Council Early Learning Services, we’re dedicated to offering unique cultural and intergenerational experiences.
Recently, South Hurstville Kindergarten arranged a special morning tea with the Kurranulla Women’s Group, creating meaningful connections through activities like necklace making, drawing, and cooking with bush tucker ingredients.
This collaboration reflects our commitment to incorporating First Nations culture and perspectives into our curriculum, from daily ‘Acknowledgements of Country’ to ‘Yarning Circles’. We are proud to foster a community that values and respects First Nations people.
We value the Night
The night-time economy is more than just pubs and clubs. It covers a wide range of activities from 6.00pm to 6.00am.
We value the night for its cultural offerings of arts, music, and sports, and the supporting services like transport, retail, and food that make our evenings vibrant and safe.
The night nurtures our culture and cares for our community.
As a Council we are advocating for a more vibrant nighttime economy and experience.
The Night Manifesto shares our vision for the night-time economy and brings together the ideas and hopes from various community surveys and studies, reflecting the views of businesses, community groups, artists, musicians, and young people.
As a community member or business, here’s how you can help:
1. Sign the Night Manifesto: The more signatures we get, the stronger our voice for a vibrant night-time economy;
2. Share Your Stories and Ideas: Tell us what you love about the night and what can be improved to make it even better.
3. Form a Community Improvement District: Find three or more businesses within the same precinct to strengthen your presence and be eligible for State Government funding opportunities.
Together, we can create a lively and dynamic night that benefits everyone.
Discover Georges River: A New Tourism Website
Georges River Council has launched a new tourism website, DiscoverGeorgesRiver.com.au.
This platform aims to showcase all that makes the Georges River a beautiful and connected place to visit and enjoy for locals and visitors alike.
The website proudly highlights why the region truly embodies Sydney’s Connected Community, featuring multi-cultural experiences through our diverse cuisines, the various events and festivals, as well as highlighting the vast selection of outdoor parks, sports, and recreational facilities in our area.
All business listings and local events are provided by the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW). Local businesses
are encouraged to register via this platform for the opportunity to be featured not only on DiscoverGeorgesRiver.com.au, but also potentially on Sydney.com, managed by Destination NSW.
In support of the Sydney’s Connected Community brand, the Discover series of videos has been produced. These videos highlight the favourite spots of local celebrities to encourage visitation. In the first video, veteran sports journalist Mike Tomalaris showcases his favourite parks for cycling. All videos are available on the Sydney’s Connected Community playlist on the Council’s YouTube Channel.
Visit DiscoverGeorgesRiver.com.au to explore local businesses and events, and discover your best way to connect to our community.
1X4
Museums use objects to tell stories. It sounds simple but it’s complicated. Objects can tell multiple stories from many points of view. So, who chooses the story? Which story is the truth?
In museums, curators choose an interpretation but 1X4 turns this upside down. Each object in this exhibition tells four distinct stories. You can listen to or read, any or all of the four stories, or just enjoy the beauty of the objects. Every story is the truth and is a valid way to view the object, but they are all different.
1X4 is an innovative, collection-rich, social history exhibition exploring the many narratives an object can tell, drawn from Newcastle Museum’s collections.
The exhibition highlights the stories of 23 significant historical objects from Newcastle Museum’s collections which include a convict-made brick (c.1835), Homing Pigeon Trophy (1910), Silk embroidered WWI postcard (1916), Australian Rugby League Cap (1909), Sunbeam Mixmaster (1959), Human Anatomical Model (1945), Royal Mail Postage Stamp camera (1907-1915) and a Racing Saddle (1955).
This award winning travelling exhibition is complimented by 4 objects from Hurstville Museum & Gallery’s collection, also interpreted in 4 ways!
Join us at Hurstville Museum & Gallery for the Official Opening of 1X4 on Friday 9 August 2024, 6.00pm. All welcome, with light refreshments provided. RSVP online via Council’s What’s On page.
1X4 will run from 10 August to 27 October 2024.
Get involved
There’s more than 4 ways to get involved with 1X4, including art classes for both children and adults, after hours events including a poetry workshop and an Open Day filled with free activities for the family.
1X4
Open Day
Saturday 7 September 2024, 11.00am – 4.00pm
During History Week 2024 and to coincide with the 1X4 exhibition, Hurstville Museum & Gallery is hosting a fun day for the whole family. Become a detective with our engaging family activity trail, take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the exhibition, or unleash your creativity by creating your own artwork and writing your own label. Join us for a day of exploration and artistic expression!
A touring exhibition developed by Newcastle Museum
Australian Rugby League Cap, 1909 Newcastle Museum collection
Child’s Dress, 1964 Newcastle Museum collection
Bead Snake, 1919 Newcastle Museum collection
Racing Saddle, 1955 Newcastle Museum collection
Exhibit Your Work
The Dragon’s Lair Gallery and the Clive James Library and Service Centre, Kogarah, provide opportunities for new and established local artists and groups with a connection to the Georges River area to display their works in a professional gallery space.
These spaces are suitable for a wide range of mediums, including sculptures, paintings, photographs, and drawings.
Exhibitors are selected through an annual proposal process that is assessed by an Exhibitions Committee. Exhibitions are selected to reflect the dynamic and innovative diversity that exists in the Georges River area.
Applications for exhibitions in 2025 are open until Sunday 18 August 2024. Apply now via Council's Exhibit Your Work page.
Revealed: hidden treasures from the art collection
10 August – 22 September 2024
Drawn from Hurstville Museum & Gallery’s collection of over 150 artworks, this exhibition reveals the diverse mediums, artists, and subjects in our collection, many of which are on public display for the first time!
Featuring historical and contemporary paintings, drawings, prints and photographs, this exhibition showcases artworks from many notable Australian and international artists, including Andy Warhol, Max Dupain, Sydney Ure Smith and Brian Dunlop.
Hurstville Museum & Gallery collection, H2006.2
Daphne Kingston, Mortdale Park and Rotunda, undated Oil on composition board
Our iconic synagogue stands the test of time in Georges River
Across from the rail line in Allawah we have a very unique place in Georges River that represents decades of local history and community service.
Out of the traditional Jewish area of Sydney the Southern Sydney Synagogue has been a part of the fabric of the Georges River community for over 80 years.
Established in 1931 and named after the rail line, the Illawarra Jewish Association as it was originally known, first met in the Allawah Hotel. Over the years services were held in the Kogarah Masonic Hall and the Kogarah School of the Arts until the growth of the congregation in 1960 saw the synagogue move to a community hall purchased from the RSL Allawah sub-branch.
It was in 1978 the synagogue found its current home in the highly recognisable location on Railway Parade at Allawah.
A synagogue is not just a place for prayer. It is a meeting place and in Hebrew means a home of coming together. Last year Rabbi Mani Holzman joined the congregation from America and took over the spiritual leadership role. He has added to the monthly friendship club, and community outreach programs an online Zoom Torah Talk to reach community members digitally as well as a monthly dinner following Friday night services. The Rabbi also was behind a beautiful project last year that saw the menorah, the multibranched candelabra, a highly recognisable symbol of Judaism, placed in Westfields Hurstville and lit up for the community for the holiday of Chanukah.
Georges River is fortunate to have a synagogue as it’s the only one south of the airport before you reach Canberra. The community are invited to come and have a look and learn more.
Rabbi Mani Holzman and Dr George Foster OAM, President of Southern Sydney Synagogue
EVENTS
What's on in Georges River
Event dates and details may change. Scan the QR code or visit the What’s On page on Council's website for updates and booking information.
19-21 JULY 2024
UN[CONTAINED] ARTS FESTIVAL
South Sydney's biggest outdoor art festival is back with a bang!
20 JULY 2024
ZOONOSES OPEN DAY
Visit Hurstville Museum & Gallery for an Open Day filled with activities for all ages! Touch and hold live Australian invertebrates, eat an edible insect at our tasting station, and much more!
19-21 JULY 2024 UN[CONTAINED] ARTS FESTIVAL
23 JULY 2024
GRANTS IMPACT EVALUATION TRAINING
Join this training to know how an evaluation of a project/program can support an application for a grant with Georges River Council and beyond.
PLASTIC FREE JULY - FREE AUTHOR TALK WITH LOUISE WILLIAMS
Let's Quit Plastic!
Join the FREE Author Talk with Louise Williams, co-author of Quitting Plastic.
NAIDOC WEEK STORY TIME
RETREAD BIKE DROP-OFF EVENT AND CHECK AND TUNE
This event is a new event which allows residents of the Georges River area to drop off any old or unwanted bikes and scooters for free.
21 JULY 2024
NPL: SYDNEY OLYMPIC FC V MANLY UNITED (W) & ROCKDALE ILINDEN (M)
Don’t miss out the action Sunday 21 July 2024 at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.
Join us as we celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture at NAIDOC Week Story Time.
JOB SHIFT - PRACTICE INTERVIEWS
Learn interview skills and get ready to take the next step in your career with help from Georges River Libraries.
24 JULY 2024
NAIDOC WEEK STORY TIME
Join us as we celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture at NAIDOC Week Story Time.
25 JULY 2024
GET CRAFTY - PAINTED PAPER LANTERN WORKSHOP
Let your creativity shine at our Painted Paper Lanterns Workshop!
NAIDOC WEEK STORY TIME
Join us as we celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture at NAIDOC Week Story Time.
26 JULY 2024
BEESWAX WRAP WORKSHOP
Join us for this hands-on workshop and learn how to make your own beeswax wraps.
28 JULY 2024
NATIONAL TREE DAY
National Tree Day Event for GRC Bushcare. Come along and join in the fun at Bushcare’s biggest event of the year.
NATIVE PLANT GIVEAWAY
Pick up a native plant or 2 for your garden from the council depot in Mortdale.
31 JULY 2024
ALGORITHMS AND INFLUENCING - YOUTUBE
Learn to maximise your YouTube influence in the Media Lab!
01 AUGUST 2024
SERVICES AUSTRALIA
INFORMATION SESSION - AGE PENSION AND YOUR CHOICES
Get up to date information about the Age Pension and your choices.
Dr Nicola Hooper trying edible insects at the opening of her exhibition ZOONOSES, Hurstville Museum & Gallery
Fantastic Planet, What's That by Amanda Parer. Photo by Amanda Parer.
03 AUGUST 2024
E-WASTE
E-Waste Drop Off is an event which allows residents of the Georges River area to drop off their unwanted e-waste for free.
07 AUGUST 2024
PIXEL PERFECT – LEARN PIXEL ART AND ANIMATION
Learn how to create pixel art and animated sprites.
09 AUGUST 2024
WEED WARRIORS BLACK FOREST RESERVE
Weed Warriors Black Forest Reserve (Beverley Hills Park).
10 AUGUST 2024
NRL: DRAGONS V BULLDOGS
Your Dragons are back ready to breathe fire against the Bulldogs at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.
ARTZONE - AMATEUR ARCHITECT
During this year’s National Science Week, come along to try your building skills in this STEM inspired class.
NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK - PLAY AND EXPLORE AT THE LIBRARY
Celebrate National Science Week as we play, explore, and learn at Hurstville Library!
SCIENCE WEEK: PLAY AND EXPLORE - CODEBREAKER ACADEMY WITH CRISTY BURNE
Play, explore, and crack the secret code in this workshop with author Cristy Burne.
SCIENCE WEEK: PLAY AND EXPLORE - ELECTRONIC PAPERCRAFT
Play, explore, and engineer an electrical masterpiece with paper, copper tape, batteries and a motor!
SCIENCE WEEK: PLAY AND EXPLORE - EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED WITH CRISTY BURNE
Play, explore, and put on your creative thinking hat with STEM author Cristy Burne.
ART IN THE AFTERNOONWATERCOLOUR PAINTING WITH ELENI KARATHANASI
Getting inspiration from our current Main Gallery exhibition, 1X4, assume the role of a storyteller and experiment with watercolours, exploring different items and the stories they can tell.
12 AUGUST 2024
WRAP WITH LOVE KNIT IN
Join our annual Knit-In and knit, crochet, and assemble cozy blankets for those in need.
14 AUGUST 2024
POETRY WORKSHOP - BRIGHT CROCKERY DAYS
Join us for a poetry workshop during Poetry Month with internationally acclaimed Australian poet, Mark Tredinnick.
17 AUGUST 2024
NPL: SYDNEY OLYMPIC FC V WESTERN SYDNEY WANDERERS FC
Don’t miss out the action Saturday 17 August 2024 at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.
18 AUGUST 2024
THE ART OF CREATIVITY
Join us for a special event that mixes art and history with our current Artist in Residence, Beric Henderson, including an artist talk at the Artist in Residence Studio and a tour with morning tea at the Carss Cottage Museum.
19 AUGUST 2024
BOOK WEEK 2024 - SPELL
BINDING SENSORY BOTTLES
Make a magical bottle of fairy dust, with spellbinding sensory properties.
21 AUGUST 2024
BOOK WEEK 2024 - POTIONS CLASS
A hands-on, science-based workshop where you learn how to make magical potions of your own.
22 AUGUST 2024
BOOK WEEK - STITCHIN' WITCHES
Knit your own scarf to keep warm this winter. Reading is magic, but so is making your own clothes and accessories!
23 AUGUST 2024
BOOK WEEK 2024 - MEDIA LAB MAGIC
Create magic in the Media Lab and take home a photo of yourself soaring through the skies on a broomstick.
28 AUGUST 2024
MEMORY LANE SOCIAL CLUB
Memory Lane Social Club is a place for people with dementia and their carers.
30 AUGUST 2024
LIFE DRAWING
Join us for a life drawing class at Hurstville Museum & Gallery.
06 SEPTEMBER 2024
WATTLE DAY WALK
Join the Bushcare team on a walk around Oatley Park and learn about the wonderful Acacias that call this area home.
07 SEPTEMBER 2024
NRL: DRAGONS V RAIDERS
Don’t miss the final home game of the season at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium.
15 SEPTEMBER 2024
TOURING THE 1920S TUDOR HOUSE IN MACMAHON STREET: HISTORY WEEK AT HURSTVILLE MUSEUM & GALLERY
Celebrate History Week 2024 with a free tour of this amazing historic building.
20 SEPTEMBER 2024
EDITH BAY WEED WARRIORS
Come along and tackle some weeds in this very interesting reserve down in Lugarno where Green Tree Snakes have been spotted.
LIFE DRAWING WORKSHOP
Join us for a life drawing class at Hurstville Museum & Gallery.
25 SEPTEMBER 2024
MEMORY LANE SOCIAL CLUB
Memory Lane Social Club is a place for people with dementia and their carers.
Mayor Sam Elmir 0410 654 310 selmir @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Natalie Mort 0499 522 200 nmort @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Colleen Symington 0409 546 202 csymington @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Nancy Liu 0400 681 188 nliu @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Nick Katris 0419 402 191 nkatris @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Deputy Mayor Elise Borg 0477 222 089 eborg @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Nick Smerdely 0431 646 321 nsmerdely @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Ashvini Ambihaipahar 0434 494 231 aambihaipahar @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Lou Konjarski 0421 188 896 lkonjarski @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Peter Mahoney 0419 374 727 pmahoney @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Be involved in important projects that shape the future of the Georges River area. Your feedback matters. Register via Council’s website at yoursay.georgesriver.nsw.gov.au.
& mail@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au f georgesrivercouncil i grcouncil y Georges River Council
Hurstville Mon to Fri 8.30am-5.00pm
Kogarah Town Square, Belgrave Street, Kogarah Mon to Fri 9.00am-6.00pm Sat 10.00am-4.00pm Sun 10.00am-1.00pm
Blakehurst Hurstville
Kogarah Bay Mortdale Peakhurst