North Sydney Sun July 2021 issue by DecisivePublishing

September 4 local government polls coverage * $1m reward for Ghost Train fire info * Olympics puzzle page

July 2021/Issue 5

News and views for North Sydney’s residential and business communities

www.northsydneysun.com.au

Lockdown slashes local mobility by up to 76% Commuter use of North Sydney transport hubs is down 76% and workplace attendance down 73%, as local residents and workers respond to the city-wide COVID-19 restrictions. Data obtained from Google based on the location tracking of its users shows the marked decline in the mobility of residents and workers since restrictions were introduced in late June. As we went to press, Sydney was still weeks away from returning to normal. The 76% decline in public transport use from a baseline based on early 2020 reflects pedestrian traffic at bus stops and the four train stations in the municipality. The 73% decline in workplace activity covers places of work such as the North Sydney and St Leonards CBDs. And contrary to the view that the workplace restrictions didn’t do enough to dissuade people from shopping at retail centres or engaging in other forms of recreation, that form of behaviour eased by 63%. Attendance at parks is off 47% and even supermarkets and pharmacies, off 24%. The trend line is similar in adjoining areas. Public transport use in Mosman

Source; Google

is down 70%, Lane Cove 64% and Willoughby 69%. Across the Harbour Bridge the trend is even stronger with public transport use off by 80% and supermarkets and pharmacies down by

60% as people steer clear of the Sydney CBD. There were just two COVID-19 positive cases in the North Sydney LGA in the first fortnight of July, both with known local sources, and just 69 in to-

tal since the COVID-19 pandemic began, according to data compiled by www.covid19data.com.au. 42 of the North Sydney cases were from overseas.

North Sydney office rentals boosted by COVID, as area competes for status as regional tech hub North Sydney has emerged as one of the Asia-Pacific region’s leading technology hubs according to new research. And, paradoxically, the suburb appears to be a net beneficiary of the COVID-19 pandemic with relocating companies escaping other districts and seeking refuge in the area. A new report from Colliers Research called Growth Engines of Innovation identifies three key tech hubs in Sydney: Macquarie Park, North Sydney and Sydney CBD South. Sydney ranks as one of 12 key Asia Pacific locations for technology companies, in the company of cities such as Shanghai, Shenzhen, Singapore, Tokyo and Taipei. According to Colliers, North Sydney “includes around 922,800 square metres of office stock of which only 40% is Prime grade (Premium and A-grade). Recent new developments have attracted major technology tenants such as Microsoft and Datacom and these tenants are expected to be a magnet for further technology company occupation.” A more recent development is an

100 Arthur St attracted four new tenants last month increasing attraction for tenants from other parts of Sydney. Direct of Office Leasing Dan Walker says “Since businesses began returning to the office in mid-2020, we began to receive enquiries from tenants in other locations. In previous cycles this was not an occurrence for North Sydney,

however given the new product available in the market and the rapidly improving amenity the area now offers, there has been a large increase in activity leading to commitment from tenants looking to take advantage of softer market conditions which allows them to improve their office location and access

for staff, and typically also improve the building quality they reside in.” Walker gives the examples of Luxottica from Macquarie Park, Datacom from North Ryde, and also groups such as SAIC Motor who moved from the CBD Fringe, and Novo Nordisk from 20km away in Bella Vista.” Walker says there are currently several further large negotiations underway with additional groups which will lead to this ratio increasing. Colliers head, national research Joanne Henderson says: “Infrastructure upgrades are an important part of the regeneration of North Sydney, linking the North Sydney CBD to other major office precincts in Sydney such as Barangaroo and Martin Place in the CBD and from the North, Norwest and Macquarie Park. Macquarie Park is offers more campus style, large floor plate style office accommodation and suited to occupiers where car parking is essential. South CBD precinct will provide Continued Page 2

North Sydney holds strong despite pandemic Continued from page 1 more comparable office space to the North Sydney market.” Indeed, the City South CBD appears to be rising as a major competitor to North Sydney. The Colliers report says: “The Southern precinct is underutilised compared to the rest of the CBD. However, government investment has led to the development of the ‘Central Precinct’ which is slated to become a tech hub.” “This precinct will become home to Atlassian’s HQ and the upcoming Central Place Sydney development is targeted at technology and innovation tenants. We expect Tech Central to become a world-class innovation and technology precinct.” Henderson says occupiers supporting tech companies are starting to look at North Sydney accommodation to be close to their stakeholders and part of the tech hub. Media and advertising

still have a strong presence occupying around 13 to 15%, making them the second largest industry to tech in North Sydney. Four parties signed leases at 100 Arthur Street in June alone, taking on a total of nearly 3,000sq m. Automotive group SAIC leased 950sqm on level 19, an unnamed multinational technology company leased 1370sqm on level 18, blueVisions leased 300sqm on mezzanine level and an aviation group has leased 300sq m on the upper ground level. The deals, which were negotiated by Euan Matheson of Knight Frank and Dan Walker of Colliers International, were concluded within the range of between $720/sq m to $850/sq m PA net. Matheson said office occupiers were increasingly prioritising quality over price point, as work patterns shift post COVID. “The common theme in these four commitments is occupiers gravitating to quality - of premises,

Federal funds support local independent cinemas Sunset Cinema at North Sydney Oval and the Hayden Orpheum at Cremorne have both received emergency funds from the Federal Government’s $20 million Supporting Cinemas’ Retention Endurance and Enhancement of Neighbourhoods (SCREEN) Fund. Federal Arts Minister Paul Fletcher said the fund supports the viability and recovery of independent cinema businesses as the vaccine rollout progresses and Australia moves towards higher audience capacities. “Independent cinemas are so important to the social and cultural health of our communities in Australia, which is why we acted quickly to introduce our $20 million SCREEN Fund,” Minister Fletcher said. “Through this fund we are already enabling 158 cinemas to keep operating and to provide a popular, low-cost and COVID-safe way for people to go out and enjoy a movie as part of a community - particularly in regional

areas.” Administered by Screen Australia, the fund helps independent cinema operators with one-off business continuity grants of up to $85,000 if they have experienced significant declines in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Orpheum received the full amount of $85K while Sunset Cinema received $35K. Screen Australia CEO Graeme Mason said he looks forward to continuing to support the recovery of independent cinema businesses during what remains an incredibly challenging time for many.

location and amenity,” he said. “This is benefitting quality A-grade stock in the North Sydney office market, with demand for whole floors rising, and take up surpassing that for Bgrade floors.” “This is being driven by a move away from price-led decisions to take on an existing fitout, as occupiers prioritise attracting staff back to the office via a high-quality working environment. Many occupiers are now recognising that working from home patterns are here to stay, meaning they can commit to less floorspace than before. This presents an opportunity to upgrade the calibre of their premises whilst remaining within their existing occupational budget.” Walker said in the case of 100 Arthur Street, the owner, CLA Real Estate, had invested strategically to elevate the overall working environment of the building, which was attracting tenants looking for quality space.

“One of the major drawcards has been the establishment of Co-Lab space with a concierge at the foyer level, which provides shared space for building occupiers to host teleconferences, meetings and make use of ‘touch down’ work points outside of their own footprint,” Walker said. “The owner has also carried out foyer works and installed an extensive and modern end-of-trip and wellness facility, including a bookable treatment room and fitness studio. “The North Sydney precinct is undergoing a once in a generation transformation driven by a combination of landmark commercial developments, transport infrastructure, planning initiatives and significant improvement to amenity. “100 Arthur appeals to tenants as it is situated close to public transport, retail and dining options, and has spectacular eastern views of Sydney Harbour,” Walker added.

TPG Telecom wins court case over North Sydney high-rise sign TPG Telecom will be allowed to illuminate the west-facing sign on the Vodafone building in North Sydney after the telco emerged victorious from a legal battle with Council. In early 2020 the telco applied to the North Sydney Council for development consent to light up the sign. A ruling by Senior Commissioner Susan Dixon of the Land and Environment Court NSW noted that in response to the application, “submissions were received raising concerns about the proliferation of signage and the impacts of the illumination of the sign on the amenity and character of the area” and subsequently blocked the move. However, the court upheld the telco’s appeal, filed in July last year, with Dixon’s ruling accepting expert evidence “that the illumination of the sign does not detract from the desired amenity and visual character of the relevant environmentally sensitive

areas in this case such as the conservation areas and residential areas because an illuminated sign can reasonably be expected in a residential area immediately adjacent to the North Sydney Centre where Council’s controls provide for such illuminated signage.” The decision is subject to certain conditions, including the installation of top-mounted “eyebrow” baffles on illuminated elements. “We always believed that illuminating the sign at the top of such a tall building would not impact local residents, and we are pleased that the court has agreed,” a TPG spokesperson said.

NSW gov’t offers $1m reward for info about 1979 Luna Park Ghost Train fire The NSW Government has offered a $1 million reward for information regarding the 1979 Luna Park fire, which claimed the lives of seven people, including six children. Interest in the tragedy was revived this year by an ABC documentary which featured witness testimony that the fire was caused by arson, perhaps as a result of organised crime. This prompted a formal request by the NSW Coroner to the NSW Police State Crime Command, which established Strike Force Sedgeman to review all evidence concerning the cause and origin of the fire, including the circumstances surrounding the deaths. Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said he is confident any fresh and material information will assist detectives with their review of the case. “Despite the passage of time, this horrific incident remains embedded in the psyche of Sydneysiders. I am appealing to those who may know something but have not previously been inclined to assist - you now have a million reasons to come forward,” Elliott said. “This is a very unique reward, it does not require a charge or conviction of any person, it relates to information about the Ghost Train fire. “As soon as I heard from some of the survivors earlier this year, and

heard their devastating stories, I knew there was more that could be done. NSW Police Force Commissioner, Michael Fuller welcomed the reward and support from the government. “I want to assure the family and friends of those who lost their lives in this tragic event, as well as the broader community, that if our detectives can identify a way to pursue a criminal investigation then it will happen,” Commissioner Fuller said. “Our Homicide Squad investigators are exceptionally diligent and are reviewing all aspects of the case including allegations of corruption or malpractice.” “Strike Force Sedgeman detectives will also consider any new and compelling evidence which will allow them to progress inquiries with the State Coroner and Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.” Detective Superintenden Danny Doherty said that while the inquest at the time indicated that the cause of death for the deceased was carbon monoxide poisoning and burns, the actual why and how the fire started was undetermined. “There’s a large volume of information that has to be reviewed. We’ve commenced that already. However, there's still a lot more to do. There’s months and months of work to do. And

Police minister David Elliott announcing the reward there’s more information that needs to be obtained. And part of this appeal is so we can get fresh and compelling and significant information that may be able to assist us with this review. So we can go back to the coroner, hopefully with some answers,” Doherty said. “And we implore people who have

information to come forward. It’s not always about the money, which is a large and significant amount, but it’s about doing the right thing for the family so they can have some answers.” The Luna Park fire claimed seven lives, including six children, on the night of June 9 1979.

North Sydney Council racks up $185,000 legal costs in defence against councillors’ suits Costs incurred by North Sydney Council against legal challenges from its own councillors have become a political issue in the upcoming election. Council documents show that Council’s legal costs defending a suit brought about by councillor MaryAnn Beregi in the Land & Environment Court over a Kurraba Point development application cost it $97,404. And North Sydney Sun can reveal that a further $83,626 has been expended on defending a case brought about in the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal by an unidentified councillor, nicknamed “EIG”, over a personal information breach. The high spend has prompted candidates for the September election to criticise councillors for acting in this way. Candidate for Cammeraygal ward, Elle Prevost, has framed the issue as one of opportunity cost and poor corporate governance. Prevost asked her Facebook group for suggestions on what North Sydney Council could do with $100,000 of project funding in reaction to the revelation. “$100,000 is what North Sydney Council spent on defending a law suit brought by one of your current councillors ... I think we can find some much

Independent candidate Elle Prevost is critical of lawsuits more productive uses for our rates.” Prevost told the North Sydney Sun: “It’s so avoidable and didn’t need to go to the Land and Environment court.” “It could have been dealt with internally or perhaps accepting the decisions of the council that this person's a part of, but also be another strategy of doing it. I’m quite frugal and when it comes to council money, I think there’s a lot of things that could be spent on in a better way,” Prevost added. Beregi’s legal challenge to council is connected to a 2019 development application for a 1920s Kurraba Point

property which would have added two storeys down to the harbour foreshore with a pool. The application was refused. Beregi challenged the ruling in the court but then withdrew the suit after many months. She has since submitted a new DA for the property. Beregi was quoted by the Daily Telegraph as saying of the legal dispute: “we withdrew the original DA and subsequently lodged an amended DA which reflects the concerns - I fail to understand how council has spent $100,000 on that matter. We live in the area and bought this as our family home - my DA should be assessed like any other and independently of the council.” The separate personal information breach case is potentially more openended in terms of cost. The case involves personal information about an unidentified serving councillor inclusive of 14 documents that made their way from the council’s accounting department into the hands of a residents group, which then emailed it to a database including a metropolitan newspaper journalist. In March, the Tribunal ordered Council to address the personal information security breach. While Council

admitted it had breached the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998, the Tribunal, nevertheless, ordered it provide an unreserved formal written apology to the councillor addressing and apologising for the breaches and all the distress and embarrassment caused. It also ordered the Council to implement security safeguards against the loss, unauthorised access, use, modification or disclosure for all of personal information it holds in physical form and ensure the conduct in question won’t occur again. On 13 July, Council said it had complied with these orders. North Sydney Sun cannot identify the councillor in question because the Tribunal ruled that under s64 of its governing legislation the publication or broadcast of the name of the applicant in the proceedings or reference to any information, picture or other material that identifies the person or is likely to lead to the identification of the person is prohibited. But we can reveal that the case is not closed, with NCAT timetabling a new hearing on the matter as we went to press, presumably some form of escalation beyond an apology, and which will likely incur greater council costs.

JILLY GIBSON YOUR MAYOR VOTE 1

TEAM JILLY

Local Government ůĞĐƟŽŶƐ

September 4 Authorised and designed by Jilly Gibson 61/29 Carabella St Kirribilli 2061

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The Sun Says The July lockdown of greater Sydney has been devastating for small service businesses in the North Sydney area. Businesses deemed “nonessential” such as hairdressers and nail salons have been forced to close their doors, while even businesses allowed to remain open have suffered. As our front page story shows, foot traffic in the North Sydney LGA around major hubs has dropped by threequarters since the lockdown began. Yes, there are grants available for displaced workers and some small businesses which comply with revenue fall thresholds. But no-one wants that longterm. The desirable objective is clearly to get everyone vaccinated and for businesses to be able to return to some normalcy. So, in the meantime, please support your local businesses anyway you can. And to kick off the effort, we are going to offer 16 quarter page advertisements for FREE to North Sydney LGA small businesses who have been affected by the lockdown. We will even supply complimentary design services if needed. If you know anyone who’s SME could benefit from this, let them know and show them the QR code on the back page of this issue that takes them to the offer webpage. That’s our bit. But we urge everyone else to pull together to get behind the local SMEs that feed us, cut out hair, clothe us, clean our houses and all the other myriad things that allow us to live our lives. After all, we will miss them if they can’t make it through the next few weeks.

Copyright Decisive Publishing. All rights reserved. ACN 065 084 960 Responsibility for election comment taken by G Lynch Office address: Unit 3 20 Cliff St Milsons Point NSW Australia 2061 Phone: 02 9061 7048 URL: www.northsydneysun.com.au Email for editorial: grahamelynch@commsdaymail.com Founding editor and Decisive CEO: Grahame Lynch Contributing writers: Dylan Bushell-Embling, Simon Dux Advertising information: Amy Carswell amy@commsdaymail.com Distribution inquiries: Linda Salameh linda@commsdaymail.com Payment inquiries: Sally Lloyd sally@commsdaymail.com Printer: Spotpress, 24-26 Lilian Fowler Place Marrickville NSW 2204 15,000 copies circulated to homes and businesses in the North Sydney LGA Printer statement available on demand

VIVID leader joins HighLine campaign A campaign to convert the railway abatement between Luna Park and Waverton into a New York-style HighLine has received a major boost. North Sydney councillor Ian Mutton, who has helped drive the HighLine project, said Anthony Bastic, who was “instrumental” in creating VIVID, has joined the team. “He and his team are working on plans to bring the HighLine’s tunnel to life. The Sydney Harbour HighLine is set to become one of Sydney’s great icons.” Bastic has helmed AGB Events for nearly 16 years and before that held senior positions with the Sydney Opera House and the Melbourne Commonwealth Games. For VIVID, Bastic specifically conceived and directed its world-famous light show. “When you consider what he’s achieved with VIVID, his joining the team is a vote of confidence in the vision of the Highline, a vision of another icon for Sydney,” Mutton remarked. The HighLine project was first conceived five years ago and will involve the creation of a walkway alongside the rail siding that departs the North Shore line south of Waverton and winds it way through a tunnel under McMahons Point to termination at Lavender Bay at Luna Park. The project has been in some hiatus since 2019 when the NSW government said there was no money for it and that the siding would continue in operation for the time being. Mutton says that this needn’t be a barrier to the project proceeding. In terms of the case for the HighLine, he says: “The HighLine delivers on two of the three key strategic themes for North Sydney – Connected Community and Living Heritage. It also captures all three of the destination’s primary experience pillars: urban nature and open space; history and heritage, and with ample opportunity to feature innovative events; and arts and culture.” Benefits of the HighLine include the creation of a 3.3 km pathway adding almost 4.4 hectares to green space at a time when the state government is taking more than 2 hectares of open space from North Sydney to build its tunnels as well as linking and making accessible the isolated harbour-side parks and attractions such as Coal Loader, historic sites of Berrys Bay and Sawmillers Reserve and the icons that are Luna Park, the Olympic Pool and Bridge, says Mutton. Earlier, Mutton had said that the project will cost around $5 million. He suggested that while there may be some stretches of the line that are initially difficult or expensive to remediate they could be worked around and deferred until later. On a related issue, Mutton is also calling for action on Luna Park and what he infers are opaque arrangements between the park operator and the state government that he de-

Antony Bastic

Ian Mutton scribes as a case of “regulatory capture.” Mutton says that new rides must seek standard development approvals unless they are low impact. But of nine new rides just built, three are not low impact, according to Mutton, with one—a rollercoaster– billed the tallest and fastest of its type in the country.

Precinct win for Labor candidate A lead candidate for Labor in the upcoming North Sydney Council elections has won the day after he was initially advised he would need to recuse himself from precinct participation as a result of a potential conflict of interest. Godfrey Santer was the incumbent convenor of the Hayberry precinct when he announced his intention to run for Labor. This was fine by his fellow precinct members, he said, as they considered he hadn’t breached the long-standing convention on electioneering at such meetings. “A few days later, I was advised by telephone by a Council employee that the General Manager considered, in view of my candidature, I should “temporarily” stand down as a Precinct office bearer, pending the outcome of the election, and I would not be permitted to attend any precinct meetings, even as an observer.” he said. “When I asked why this decision had been made, I was advised that it was to avoid any perception that the Council was showing political bias. The Council also needed to ensure that its facilities, including precincts, were not being used for electioneering purposes. In my reply I pointed

out that, far from removing political bias, this directive was introducing it, since the prohibition against participation did not apply to current Councillors seeking re-election or to candidates not holding precinct office,” Santer said. Santer says the council employee subsequently amended the directive, to allow him to observe meetings. “While respecting the substantial responsibilities which rest with the General Manager, I also question his perceived right, as a non-elected Council staff member, to issue such politically charged directives to resident citizens not employed by the Council but who provide a substantial proportion of the Council’s revenue via rates and Council charges,” Santer said. After all, he said, precincts are “are only advisory bodies, designed to convey to Council the concerns of the citizens and businesses of North Sydney and their comments on Council determinations. To function effectively in this regard, precincts should not be treated as subordinates to Council, but as independent advisory bodies. After all, for its part the Council, as the duly elected legislative body, is free to accept, reject or ignore the advice of the precincts.” In the end, Santer’s case prevailed, with a vote of Council. Councillors Zoe Baker and MaryAnn Beregi moved a motion at the June meeting of Council to affirm the right of candidates to participate in precinct meetings. Jessica Keen, Tony Carr and Ian Mutton backed the motion in a vote and it was passed by 5 to 4. So now, residents who have registered or nominated to be candidates for the September 2021 local govern-

Godfrey Santer ment elections be permitted to attend and participate fully in Precinct meetings . “Council simply should not apply “directives” on its citizens it’s supposed to be serving, denying them their democratic rights of assembly,” Santer said. “In a system of government which does not merely give lip service to democratic ideals but embraces them, let there be, especially during an election period, equal opportunity for all citizens to express and debate their views on the key issues affecting them; even if they feel so strongly on the issues that they choose to volunteer themselves for candidature in elections.”

Jessica Keen I am a strong, responsible voice representing the community and ensuring North Sydney remains a great place to live.

What I believe in: Our Community: Community voice against over development; more parklands; community centres and open space.

Traffic & Transport: Pedestrian safety; Beaches Link and Western Harbour Tunnel; cycling path and ramp strategy.

Focus North Sydney: North Sydney a premium destination of choice.

Sustainability: Advocacy for sustainable practices.

KEEN FOR COUNCIL St Leonard’s (North) Ward

Sept 4 council elections to proceed with more online, postal emphasis Local government elections planned for September 4 will go ahead despite the ongoing effects of the pandemic. Both NSW local government minister Shelley Hancock and Local Government NSW president Linda Scott said the polls would be “COVID-safe.” Scott said changes to State Government regulations announced July 9 would help support those efforts, with voters able to access an online iVote option, as well as postal or in-person options. “Resident safety remains the number one priority for councils, and I am confident we can meet this priority and still hold fair and transparent elections,” Scott said. “The new rules focus on ensuring COVID-safe voting, which gives every eligible member of the community an opportunity to elect the council of their choice.” “I have met with the NSW Electoral Commission and Office of Local Government this month to confirm councils’ commitment to safe, transparent

Lisa Scott & Shelley Hancock and accessible elections.” According to Scott, the updated electoral regulations allow for an online iVote option under similar circumstances to postal voting, broadening of pre-poll eligibility to all electors and an expansion of postal voting eligibility. Scott said it was crucial people know all the voting options available to them, as voting in local government elections in NSW is compulsory under State legislation.

“Council elections are a celebration of democracy at a grassroots level and I am pleased the new electoral provisions released by the State Government this week recognise and support that process,” she said. “It has always been our view that local government elections should be run in the same way as every other level of government. “At our 2019 Annual Conference, councils supported the online iVote platform as an option to accomplish this. The amendments also provide scope for restrictions on campaign posters and handing out electoral materials where these restrictions are necessary for public health reasons.” “I encourage all voters to visit the NSW Electoral Commission’s website for official updates.” Minister Hancock had earlier described the regulations as “a range of measures to help maintain the safety and wellbeing of voters, candidates and polling staff for local government

elections.” The reassurance over the poll came as a series of deadlines near for registration. North Sydney Council has advised that the electoral rolls are now open fo so-called non-residential voters who are eligible to vote. This includes two sub-groups: owners of properties in the LGA who are non-resident as well as occupiers and rate-paying lessees of rateable land. Then on 26 July, the lodgement of candidate nominations opens. This closes on 4 August. The next key date is 23 August when iVote applications and voting open, the pre-poll voting period opens and the display of electoral material on the NSW Electoral Commission website commences. The election itself takes place on 4 September and the Commission expects to declare results around 21 to 23 September.

Who is running and where for the September 4 local government elections, for now The northern half of the North Sydney Council electorate appears set to be the most heavily contested at September 4 elections with 19 candidates already declared or likely to be running for 5 councillor positions. Some 13 candidates are contesting the 5 councillor positions in the southern half. The LGA electorate is being split into two wards: St Leonards, covering north of Military Rd and Falcon St and west of West St and Bay Road. The Cammeraygal Ward covers all points east of West St and Bay Road and south of Military Rd and Falcon St. This replaces a three ward system used previously. High profile incumbent councillors including mayor Jilly Gibson, deputy mayor Stephen Barbour and Milsons Point-based independent Ian Mutton are running again. Candidates have until August 4 to nominate so North Sydney Sun’s reporting on the running field will clearly change over the next few weeks. LABOR CHALLENGE: Probably the most notable challenge is from Labor, which is running nine candidates across the two wards in a strongly branded campaign. Their two lead candidates, Godfrey Santer in St Leonards and Shannon Welch in Cammeraygal, have high community profiles. The Labor brand has generated a vote of between 12% and 25% at recent state and federal elections, and should be enough to get them close to election in both wards. LIBERAL VALUES: Although the Liberal Party maintains a policy of not using its brand in local government elections, its strong support at state and federal levels, where it receives around half of all primary votes, is reflected in strong representation from local party members running as independents. The North Sydney 1st team led by

Stephen Barbour in St Leonards Ward is the most obvious example here, with all candidates registering with the NSW Electoral Commission as having Liberal affiliations. This is also reflected in the team branding, which carries the tagline “Liberal Values, Local Solutions” and the use of a logo typeface that is the same as that used by the Liberal Party. Other prominent candidates to declare Liberal affiliations include Jessica Keen and Elle Prevost, but both are running as independents. Keen is an incumbent councillor while Prevost is best known as the administrator of the wildly successful Facebook groups “Cremorne Neutral Bay Community” and “Wollstonecraft and Waverton Community” which between them have around 14,000 active members. Prevost is also in an alliance with James Spenceley, the tech entrepreneur, who is running in St Leonards Ward. Spenceley is a long-time local resident and built Australia’s 4th largest telecommunications company, Vocus Communications, from North Sydney, starting from 2007. SUSTAINABLE: North Sydney Sun can also reveal that the Sustainable Australia Party is entering the race. William Bourke, federal president of the Sustainable Australia Party is throwing his hat in the ring for St Leonards Ward. Bourke, based in Crows Nest, previously ran for the North Sydney federal by-election when Joe Hockey resigned from Parliament. He also ran for state parliament in 2018, narrowly missing out on an Upper House seat. The party promotes a broad sustainability agenda, it advocates for more trustworthy and transparent governance through greater community consultation, including via community-initiated citizen juries and plebiscites and referenda on key issues.

St Leonards Ward (5 positions) Jilly Gibson Team: Alanya Drummond*, John Lepouris North Sydney 1st: Stephen Barbour*, Richard Pearson, Veronique Marchandeau, Kristine Pham, Sophie Winton Labor: Godfrey Santer, Sally Cousens, Serge Galitsky, Alexander Goth, Ruth Holmes Team Spenceley: James Spenceley, Angelina Katz CommUnity First: Jessica Keen*, Efi Carr Sustainable Australia Party: William Bourke Others: John Molyneux, Zoe Baker*

Cammeraygal Ward (5 positions) Jilly Gibson Team: Jilly Gibson*, John Bauer Labor: Shannon Welch, Bruce Grimshaw, Maurice May, Harry Wall Team Elle: Elle Prevost, Anjana Karki Animal Justice Party: Evelyn McWilliams Others: Ian Mutton*, James Mullan, John Tower, MaryAnn Beregi* * denotes sitting councillor. This list is indicative, nominations are open til Aug 4

Bourke wants to protect local environment and green space, stop overdevelopment and stop corruption. He wants to stem “systemic corruption in the planning system that allows property developers and the state government to override local communities and dramatically increase high-rise and densification.” BAKER AND BEREGI: Prominent councillors Zoe Baker and MaryAnn Beregi had not yet registered with the NSW Electoral Commission as candidates as we went to press but are asking for donations on a website, which suggests an intention to run. Neither had responded to our emails as we went to press. Baker and Beregi are the most prominent dissenters on the present council and their re-election could greatly influence the council’s makeup over the next term, particularly if Labor were to also successfully gain election to the council. Another wildcard is the Liberal Democrats, who polled strongly in the last election, electing a councillor in one ward and finishing 4th in the other two. They have yet to declare their intentions, but North Sydney Sun understands that strong reaction against

the restrictions and strictures imposed by the pandemic have boosted their membership. ELECTION SYSTEM: As for the poll itself, it has been delayed by one year because of the pandemic ,meaning that the current council has sat for four years. Unlike the 2017 election where voters picked the mayor, this election will see the ten elected councillors vote on a mayor and deputy mayor. The electoral system employed is that of proportional representation, where candidates who achieve quotas are elected and their “excess” votes are transferred via preference to other candidates. If this election replicates 2017 patterns, then there should be nearly 16,000 formal votes up for grabs in each ward. This effectively means a quota will be achieved with around 3,200 votes. The challenge will be to replicate previous voting participation rates: at the 2017 election, just 72-73% turned out to vote. The great unknown is how the COVID-19 pandemic will impact hat number, particularly with emphasis placed on postal and online votes.

North Sydney Council elections: it is about policies

When it comes to parklands, there are things that need to be delivered:

I’m a Councillor seeking re-election * an independent * have not been in any way connected with a political party for 5 decades. I believe in democracy but not in political parties. Things I am proud of from the last term: * Keeping Council’s finances in great shape * Starting the rebuild of North Sydney’s Olympic pool – one of Sydney’s great icons * Winning Council’s support for the HighLine, the Heritage Fleet becoming a part of the vision for Berrys Bay. As for the future - Council needs to stand up to and push back on the State Government when it: * takes our parklands for the Western Harbour and Beaches’ tunnel’s infrastructure and * forces traffic wanting to reach its tunnels through North Sydney’s CBD Things that I will fight for: * Council taking back planning control from the State Government. * A levy on “windfall” profits that accrue to “developers” when State Government overrides Council’s planning rules. * Proceeds used to reduce rates and improve and increase our parklands. * A start on solving the parking problem. * Remove the restriction on the number of car spaces in new residential developments (presently one space for every two apartments). * An audit of Council properties with a view to rebalance holdings to maximise returns. * An audit of Council controlled “affordable housing” with views to maximising the number of housing units; and recognising the dire need to provide support housing for women escaping abusive relationships, * Improve traffic “management” around our schools to make the streets safer for kids. Interested in helping me to get elected? Drop me an email – imutton@crafers.com Authorised by Ian Mutton of 2 Dind Street, Milsons Point, NSW

The Highline Repurposing the rail corridor between Waverton and Lavender Bay as a walking trail connecting the harbourside parks (the Coal Loader, Waverton Oval, Sawmillers Reserve and the Lavender Bay parklands).

Also * Protection of the Western Shore of Berry’s Bay. * Mooring the heritage fleet in the Bay and repurposing Woodley’s Shed as a museum. * Protecting Wendy’s “secret” Garden. The State Government leases the Garden to Council – it should transfer it to Council. Building its capital base to ensure its long-term survival by embarking on a capital raising. * Saving Bradfield Park from being taken for a cycleway. * Saving Cammeray Golf Course from being taken for tunnel related infrastructure

Mullan vows to be the councillor for local sports James Mullan wants to be known as the councillor for participatory and professional sporting facilities in the North Sydney LGA. He has an extensive agenda for defending and enhancing existing infrastructure, and is even prepared to stick his neck out as potentially the only candidate for the September 4 local government poll backing the State Government’s contentious plans to build a bike ramp off the Sydney Harbour Bridge at Milsons Point. But his main passion is preserving the North Sydney Indoor Sports Centre at Crows Nest. Mullan says that the centre had been caught up by the Hume Street redevelopment at the metro station. “They needed a certain percentage of green space to go with it. So, essentially they wanted to knock down the indoor sports centre. There were three options, one of which was just completely knock it down and relocate to somewhere else. Option two was to keep it and build around it, which I think would have been a better option. And then option three was to put it underground and then build the green space on top. In a way, what they adopted was option three.” “But the council doesn’t have money to do that. To put a sports centre underground, with parking and all that, is super expensive and they don't have the money to do it. So, right now the indoor centre is just in limbo as it stands. It is going to get knocked down with no viable alternative.” “They can knock it down, that’s fine, if there is another place where North Sydney Sports Centre can go,

but right now there is no viable solutions unless Willoughby Council proceeds to build six courts at Gore Hill Oval. That is an option. Then NSBA, the basketball association, moves over there. But then North Sydney loses that asset.” This would be quite a loss, Mullan laments. As an active participant in the centre, he observes that at any given time, some 100 people are playing basketball there, adding up to thousands of people per week. “It is highly patronised and the thing is, it is too small for the demand now. And this is a great resource that brings, as I said before, brings the community together, provides sports. People from public schools, private schools, young, old, they use this thing,” Mullan told the Sun. “You talk to local businesses in the area, the extra 1,000 people in Crows Nest each day makes a huge difference to their bottom lines.” The Centre isn’t the only local sports facility he wants to protect and enhance. “We need cricket nets and lights down at Tunks Park and more cricket nets at Anderson Park,” he says. But one particular focus of passion for him is North Sydney Oval, coming as he does from three generations of Bears supporters. Mullan sees a desperate need for the Oval to be upgraded so it can host more highlevel professional sport, and perhaps even attract a top tier sporting franchise to the area again. This forms part of his agenda for an LGA characterised by green spaces. “We have the least green space out of almost any urban council, so even

James Mullan Sydney City has more green space than we do in North Sydney, and that is ridiculous,” he tells the Sun. “Especially during COVID, these outdoor areas are extremely important. Extremely important for mental health, physical health, but also for community building. Sports clubs bring the community together. We live in apartment blocks and that means community has become twice as important, because these spaces and groups are meeting points for us,” Mullan tells the Sun. “If you are rich, poor, young or old, you use these areas. That’s why it is an issue that I have really chosen to try to champion. Because it affects almost the most people and I reckon it has the most benefit out of almost anything the Council controls.” A big adjacent issue is what North Sydney does with its waste, according to Mullan. “Every candidate is like, ‘Sustainability, sustainability, sustainability’ but I don’t think they mean it

sincerely, it is a buzz word for them.” Mullan expands on the point: “Let’s have seminars about how can you be eco-friendly.” “We need proper reform, especially around waste. In Sydney City Council, since 2004, you can throw your food waste into the green bin, it gets turned into mulch and reused. They’ve been doing that since 2004, but we don’t do that here in ‘progressive, sustainable’ North Sydney.” Mullan says he will throw his youthful energies into Council if elected and promises to take on the task with a fresh outlook. “I will try to get to the bottom of issues as fast as possible,” he says. “I think there is a mentality in most councils that just sits up there like a monarchy and makes all these decisions for the area. But at the end of the day you are a public servant, you are actually here to serve the public here. Councillors are set in the middle there. They are not on the council side, they are in the middle.”

Jessica Keen: never forget local is local at Council Incumbent councillor Jessica Keen is seeking re-election at the September 4 polls for St Leonards Ward with a concise motto: local is local. With four children raised in the area, Keen is strongly familiar with local school and sports clubs. “I’m very much aware of the needs of our community around the sporting area, and also our local pedestrian safety around schools. I advocated for the Yeo Street crossing, which was successful and it has made a big difference to pedestrian safety around Neutral Bay Public School,” she tells North Sydney Sun. “I also was on the board of the Sydney Harbor Trust playing an advocacy role for Platypus, which I really enjoyed. You know what makes this? It’s the small things that you can help people with. I will always, if I see something like trip hazards on the street, take a photo and let the council know so that they can fix them, make it safe for to walk around our streets. It’s answering the phone call to somebody that has a concern about something and being able to talk to them and find out more about the issues. It’s really,

Jessica Keen really being able to help people in our local area. It’s a very, very rewarding role. And local is local, right?” And after four years serving as a councillor, Keen believes that she still has more work to do. “Four years is a great start to the role. I would really like an opportunity to do more. I’m co-chair of Sport and Rec. Committee. I co-chair Sustainable Transport. I co-chair Environment Committee and I also sit on the Traffic Committee, so I really would love an opportunity to do more. I’ve obviously

been there now for years. I understand I’ve learned a lot in the four years and I’d really like the opportunity to do more with our community.” With road infrastructure being expanded across the LGA, Keen sees a potential inflection point which could be traded off for more green space. “We have Beaches Link and the Western Harbor Tunnel coming into North Sydney. I’d like to see some way we could work with the government to secure more open space, more sporting fields, maybe over the Warringah Freeway,” she told North Sydney Sun. “I don’t have all the answers per se, but I would like to see some benefit for our community around more sporting fields, more open space. I love St Leonard’s Park, I walk all the time with my dogs. We’re right in the middle of the city and you’ve got this beautiful open park. I'd love to see a benefit come into our community as a result of big infrastructure investment,” Keen explains. On the proposed bike ramp at Milsons Point from the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Keen is also in lockstep with the Council consensus against the

plans. “I don’t think either of the proposals are a solution. I think there needs to be a solution for the cyclist because they’re coming through. But I think they’re not either of the solutions. We’re very supportive of cycling and cyclists. We had a meeting on this and I said that on the floor of council, ‘we’re very supportive, but those two solutions are not the right ones.” However, Keen pushes back on the notion pushed by some candidates that the North Sydney CBD is moribund and in need of revitalisation. “North Sydney is revitalising. It really is. Some big companies are coming into North Sydney. We’re doing a temporary plaza on Miller Street, have you seen that? I think that’s fabulous.” “I think having that open space there right in the middle of the area will revitalise it, will encourage people to go out, so I think it’s already happening,” she observes. “Brett Whiteley Square gets used all the time and we have activations there like at lunchtime with music. I think it’s being reactivated. I love it because there’s so much going on in there now.”

Labor's team for North Sydney Council VOTE LABOR

SEPTEMBER 4 HAVE YOUR SAY

www.NorthSydneyLabor.com

For a Council that listens Authorised by Harry Wall, 49A Upper Pitt Street, Kirribilli 2061.

GODFREY SANTER

SHANNON WELCH

Tech entrepreneur wants to bring Council into the digital age For many in North Sydney’s technology hub, James Spenceley needs no introduction. He founded Vocus Communications, now Australia’s 4th largest telco, from North Sydney digs in 2007. Subsequently he has moved on to become the chair of Airtasker and Swoop, two stars of the contemporary tech scene. And as a long time resident of the area—initially in Crows Nest and now in Cremorne— Spenceley now wants to bring his vision and smarts to the local council as a candidate for the upcoming St Leonards ward election. One of his big campaign themes? To harness technology in aid of democracy and bring Council affairs literally to the finger tips of local residents. Spenceley ponders: “Imagine having a mobile application where say you were walking past Young Street in Neutral Bay, and a pop up message can ask you, “Did you know council’s deciding whether or not to make Young Street Plaza permanent or not? What do you think? Thumbs up, thumbs down. Comment. Right?” “Or what about you draw a geo location or a geo ring around your house

James Spenceley so that you get updates on any DAs, not just the ones that council decide that are left and right of you, but any DA in your area. Then you can decide what the area is.” Spenceley adds: “Council spends an enormous amount of money promoting DAs, I mean, people pay for it in the end, but we can expend that same

amount and put it towards to building the app. I’m so excited about it. What we can do with it, is going to be phenomenal.” The app can also be used to simplify interactions with council. “If you want to change your bin size in North Sydney council, you have to go on the website, find the form, which is no easy feat. Then you have to download the form, sign it, scan it, send it back. And then the process is to call council to confirm what size you want. Why can’t we just have that as an app where it asks, ‘I know your bin size. Click here to change it or click here to change your direct debit or whatever." We can make council more efficient and we can make it easier for us.’ Spenceley’s app idea forms a part of his greater vision to harness technology to garner citizen views on issues: almost akin to an ongoing citizen referenda. And to that end he is not hitting up voters with a pre-defined position on every issue but instead wants to take the approach of asking questions and garnering feedback. In this early stage, his approach focuses on short videos on social me-

dia asking for responses around local issues in St Leonards Ward. One which he has raised awareness on is the planned demolition of a row of century-old workers cottages in Parraween St, Cremorne. “Many people have written to me complaining about the potential loss of these cottages. But the disconnect is that they are not heritage listed,” Spenceley says. “A lot of the work done in determining what has heritage or not was done in the 1980s and our views on what is deserving of heritage listing have changed since then,” he adds. As for being elected to Council on September 4, Spenceley promises to work hard and attend all meetings. “I think there’s some councillors who maybe don’t put the work and the effort in. And I actually feel like, if I’m elected, there’s a bit of a weight on my shoulders. It’s humbling. I’m going into this because I know I can do the work. I’ll turn up.” “The opportunity is awesome. If we get involved and make an effort, we can really make changes in the next 3, 6, 10 years.”

Queen of local Facebook groups runs for Council Elle Provest is the archetype of what may well prove to be the ideal modern election candidate: a person who has done the hard yards in building an online digital community and now seeks to translate that into local council representation. Prevost is the founder of the successful Facebook groups “Cremorne Neutral Bay Community” and “Wollstonecraft and Waverton Community” which between them have around 14,000 active members. That’s not a bad asset t0 have when the likely quota to get elected in Cammeraygal ward is a mere 3,200 votes or so. In her own words, Prevost says: “I’d been running the Facebook groups for four or five odd years but I’d been low key behind the keyboard. And not being the public face of it, one day I just thought, I’m really connecting with these people, I’m going to show myself and say hi, tell them a bit about myself.” “I wanted to make some actual, real connections rather than being faceless keyboard warrior. And when I did, I got hundreds of comments saying, we love what you do. Some people wrote even Elle for Mayor, sorry Jilly! They were really behind me and what I stood for. And I think over such a long period of time, I’d shown that I was fair, understanding, wanting to highlight community issues and wanting to make this place a better place to live.” “So the idea of running was really put out to me by the community. It planted the seed. I know a few people, leaders within the community and I mentioned it in passing, is this something you think I could be good at? And I’ve had such overwhelming sup-

Elle Provest port that it made me think, why not put my hand up? After which point I started to research what’s going on within the Council and I was quite horrified.” “And the idea I just go into this with good intentions and see what happens has actually become about how I am really mad about what’s going on in this Council and I have to be a part of the change because I can’t just sit here and watch it happen.” And what’s making Prevost mad? “Councillors that are suing the Council, the fact that councillors aren’t even attending most meetings! I just think we deserve better than that. And it really makes me angry.” “It just doesn’t seem that people are as engaged when it actually comes to doing the job as they are when it comes to campaigning. So that’s really riled me up.” “I see what goes on in council and it is not reflective of how people behave in the normal business world. And I could only imagine how much the Council would achieve if people were respectful of each other. If they turned up, it’s not rocket science. It’s common sense. And it just doesn’t seem like that’s happening at all.”

Prevost is also introducing a number of novel policies to the election conversation, one of which is dear to her heart. “I want to see native Australian plants introduced by Council at least every 500m. My reason? Bees can only go 500 meters without needing to repollinate. And a healthy bee population is essential to sustainability,” Prevost says. “Let’s make a big corridor so that bees can continue to fly through our local government area, into other areas, cross pollinate for the purposes of creating new and different species that can then survive and feed us and feed our animals and plants.” “There’s easy ways to do that. One of them that’s been really done very well is in in Utrecht in the Netherlands where they use the top of bus shelters, deploying as little gardens. And it looks beautiful.” “Filled with native flowers, the shelters are not only beautiful to look at, but they attract bees which are cross-pollinating. Bus shelters are pretty much 500 metres apart. So it makes sense to utilise them in that way. And North Sydney could do with a bit more greenery.” PARKLAND PASSIONS: “More broadly, my personal passions lie with families and parklands and also the over fifties as well, making sure that they have recreation facilities,” Prevost says. “There’s still a question mark of what’s going to happen with the Waverton bowls club. So I see an opportunity there for us to bring in some new sporting facilities, bring in potentially a community centre.” “Where can our over 50 population

go for preventative health? Pilates classes and things like that, an opportunity for a mums and bubs program within there.” Another idea pushed by Prevost is the enhancement of the Waverton Coal Loader as a public space, tempered with resistance to the potential over-development of Berry’s Bay. She would like to see Council lobby for a Sydney Ferries’ wharf in the bay. Currently there are no such wharfs between McMahons Point and Greenwich Point. SPENCELEY ALLIANCE: Prevost is running in a broad alliance with the Spenceley team in the St Leonards Ward and endorses his push for the use of technology in council consultations with ratepayers. “We will use new technology and social media to listen to the needs of the community and continue to sense check issues as they arise. Our mission evolves as the issues evolve, but you will always be a part of the conversation,” she promises. “Our key driver is to provide a voice for the community - making council accessible in a way it never has been before. Ensuring all community members can quickly and easily have their say and get things done by embracing digital solutions and communication channels.” Commenting to the North Sydney Sun on her alliance, Provest comments: “That’s where James and I are very aligned because we do see the immediate impact that if we were both to get elected, that we could really lift the bar of what the expectations are. That’s our objective of working together.”

New offices, community facilities approved for Christie St

Arrow Capital Partners and Starwood Capital Group said Sydney North Planning Panel approved their Development Application for a new development comprising ~60,000 sqm at 29-57 Christie Street, St Leonards. The property is on a 7,636 square metre site and currently includes two separate buildings – a 7 storey office building and a 2-storey building which incorporates a gymnasium, childcare centre and café. The design for the new development, aggregating about 60,000 sqm, includes three building envelopes, and approval has been given to a detailed Development Application to demolish the 2-storey building and construct two commercial buildings of 8 and 12 storeys, alterations to the underground car park, landscaping and public domain works; and a concept Development Application for an 18-storey building envelope on the site of the existing 7 storey office building. Kurt Wilkinson, partner at Arrow Capital Partners, said: “The site is a significant landholding in a strategic location on the lower north shore of Sydney. We are very pleased to achieve this major milestone in the planning approval process and would

like to thank our project team for their hard work and professionalism.” The property is located in the St Leonards Precinct, an area that is undergoing extensive change as part of the Greater Sydney Region Plan to revitalise the precinct. The development will also benefit from the future Crows Nest Metro Station which will provide a fiveminute travel time to Barangaroo once complete. The Sydney North Planning Panel determination noted that the development will improve pedestrian access and enable better connectivity throughout the precinct to both the St Leonards Station and the future Crows Nest Metro Station. The panel also noted the design would facilitate a better planning outcome that aligns with the planned growth for the site under the Greater Sydney Region Plan, North District Plan and 2036 Plan. Arrow Capital Partners worked with Fitzpatrick + Partners, Arcadia Landscape Architecture and Urbis to prepare the Development Application. 29-57 Christie Street, St Leonards is owned in joint venture by Arrow Capital Partners and Starwood Capital Group.

Junglefy created a green-filled laneway leading up to the entrance of an office tower in North Sydney. Using green walls, facades and wall columns, Junglefy transformed 73 Miller Street, a busy laneway in North Sydney in the vicinity of the train station. A selection of almost 2000 plants in 19 species has been used to give life to the entrance of the office tower and the adjoining laneway.

JNR OLYMPIANS’ STADIUM KIDS’ QUIZ K

DOT TO DOT

1 How many rings make up the Olympic logo? 2 Which country held the 2016 Olympic Games? 3 In what year did Australia last hold the Olympics? 4 Where were the first modern Olympic Games held? 5 True or false: the 2020 Tokyo Olympics were the first to ever be postponed? 6 What object is carried around the world from Olympia, Greece, to the host nation prior to the beginning of the games? 7 Gymnast Simone Biles (pictured) has previously competed in how many Olympic Games: one, two or three? 8 What type of medal is given out for coming second? 9 At the 2008 Beijing Olympics, which country entered last at the opening ceremony? 10 True or false: the Summer and Winter Olympics were held in the same year until 1992? ANSWERS: 1. Five 2. Brazil 3. 2000 4. Athens 5. True 6. A torch 7. One 8. Silver 9. China 10. True

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE There are 8 differences between these pictures. Can you spot them all?

MISSING MEDALS

Golide has misplaced the Gold Medals. Can you help him find them? There are 10 on this page.

THEN COLLOUR IN

OLYMPICS SEARCH H Find all the words hidden in the grid. The leftover letters will spell a secret message.

JNR MEDAL Can you work out what the missing letter is that spells an eight-letter word? It could read either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

A E

ANSWER: Missing letter – L Eight-letter word – ATHLETES. Secret Name: A massive event

WORD RINGS

joke CORNER Q. What is a banana’s most skilled gymnastics move? A. The splits!

Q. What’s the name of the fastest dinosaur at the Olympics? A. Prontosaurus.

Q. Why didn’t Cinderella make the Olympics basketball team? A. She ran away from the ball.

Starting with HEAT, make your way through the linked Olympic rings by changing one letter at a time to create a new word at each ring, g, until yyou gget to GOLD.

H E AT

____

____ There may be more than one possible answer answer.

GOLD

____

ANSWERS: HEAT, HEAD, HELD, HOLD, GOLD

ANSWERS: 1. Gold medal size 2. Missing stripe on shirt 3. Shoe colours 4. Missing hair 5. Extra green confetti 6. Balloon colour 7. Yellow streamer reversed 8. Eyebrow colour ALL PUZZLES ©PAGEMASTERS PTY LTD | PAGEMASTERS.COM

SPECTACULAR SUMMER TRAINING VENUE VILLAGE

COMPETING CROWD GYMNASTICS MASCOT RECORD

ANTHEM ATHLETE CAPITAL CELEBRATION CEREMONY

GOING FOR GOLD 1.

Which country has hosted the most Olympic Games? What Australian city unsuccessfully bid for the 1996 Olympics? Basketballer Liz Cambage was the ﬁrst to do what in a women’s Olympics match at the London 2012 Games? What team-based rope game was an Olympic event between 1900 and 1920? Which country did not appear at the Olympics between 1956 and 1980?

Which country is always the first to lead out the Olympic opening ceremony parade? 7. Which Olympic Games were the first to allow NBA basketballers to appear? 8. Canadian Ian Miller took part in 10 Olympic Games in which event? who 9. Nadia Comaneci, w was the first score a gymnast to sco hailed perfect 10, ha from which country? 10. How old Greek was Gre gymnast gymna Dimitrios Dimitri Loundras Loundr he when h competed compet 1896 at the 18 Olympic Games? Game

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

Liz Cambage

19.

What special team competed at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro games under the IOC code ROT? How many different swimming events will be featured at the upcoming Tokyo Games? The ﬁrst Olympian to be disqualiﬁed for drug use was expelled for taking which substance? What does the Olympic Rings logo signify? Which two Australians have both won nine Olympic medals? Which two African countries won gold medals in the men’s football event at the 1996 and 2000 games? How many Olympic Games have been cancelled? Which American city unsuccessfully applied to host the Olympics seven times between 1944 and 1972? What colour is the middle circle of the famous Olympic rings?

0-10 Bronze medal 21-30 Silver medal 30 Gold medal

Michael Phelps

20. How many gold medals did swimmer Michael Phelps win in his Olympic career? 21. At which Olympic Games were gold medals ﬁrst awarded? 22. Australia has won a total of 60 gold medals in which sport? 23. Vinicius was the ofﬁcial mascot of which recent Olympic Games? 24. In 1908 and 1912, Australia competed with New Zealand under which name? 25. How old was Betty Cuthbert when she won three gold medals at the 1956 Melbourne games?

26. True or false: cyclist Anna Meares has won at least one medal at the last four Olympic Games? 27. Australia defeated New Zealand to win the gold medal in the women’s rugby sevens event at Rio 2016. Which country won bronze? 28. At which Olympic Games was cricket played, albeit with only two countries represented? 29. What was the nickname of the Australian men’s rowing team that won two gold medals? 30. What kind of wreaths were awarded to winners at the Ancient Olympic Games?

ANSWERS: 1. The US - four (1904, 1932, 1984, 1996) 2. Melbourne 3. Dunk 4. Tug of war 5. China 6. Greece 7. Barcelona 1992 8. Equestrian 9. Romania 10. 10 11. Refugee Olympic Team 12. 37 (18 for each sex and one mixed) 13. Alcohol 14. Continents of the world (Africa, Europe, the Americas, Asia and Oceania) 15. Ian Thorpe and Leisel Jones 16. Nigeria (1996) and Cameroon (2000) 17. Three (1916, 1940, 1944) 18. Detroit 19. Black 20. 23 21. St. Louis 1904 22. Swimming 23. Rio 2016 24. Australasia 25. 18 26. True 27. Canada 28. Paris 1900 29. Oarsome Foursome 30. Olive wreaths

N H

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included, and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

HOW H OW WELL DO YOU KNOW

2. At what age did she compete in her first event? A. 18 B. 16 C. 21 D. 13

4. In which Australian state did she grow up? A. South Australia B. Queensland C. Western Australia D. Victoria

3. How many Youth Olympic and Commonwealth Games medals has she won? A. 2 B. 1 C. 4 D. 0

5. Which combat sport was Parker initially encouraged to take up as a child? A. Kickboxing B. Taekwondo C. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu D. Karate

A P G

C T

EDGEWORD

CAITLIN PARKER

ANSWERS: 1B, 2D, 3A, 4C, 5B

1. In which sport will Parker be competing at the Tokyo Olympics? A. Cycling B. Boxing C. Shooting D. Archery

17 words: Good 26 words: Very good 35 words: Excellent

Place each of the tiles of letters into the blank jigsaw to create four six-letter words going across and down.

DO GA

ANSWER: INDOOR, INJURE, REGAIN, ORIGIN

ANSWER: The missing letters are C and P. and the eight-letter word is CHAMPION.

Can you work out what the missing letters are that spell an eight-letter word? It could read either clockwise or anti-clockwise.

9-LETTER JUMBLE SOLUTIONS: SOLUTIONS: COMPETING, cope, coping, epic, gimp, incept, inept, mope, moping, open, opine, optic, opting, pectin, pent, peon, picot, pigeon, pigment, pimento, pine, ping, pint, pinto, pitmen, piton, poem, poet, poetic, point, tempi, tempo, tope, topic, toping

GOLD MEDAL

:H UH RIIHULQJ IUHH GLVSOD\ DGYHUWLVHPHQWV WR 1RUWK 6\GQH\ DUHD EXVLQHVVHV KLW E\ WKH ORFNGRZQ

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