The Beast - July 2024

BEAST

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A PLACE FOR US

Spaces for community in Waverley

Explore community events happening across our venues this winter

new menu commences june 17 burgers

All burgers served on milk buns with Famous Fries

The OG Bondi Public Bar Burger $24

Black Angus 2+ MBS Wagga Wagga patty with double bacon, double cheese, iceberg lettuce, pickles & special sauce

Southern Fried Chicken $23

with mint & coriander slaw & chipotle mayo

Wood Roasted Tandoori Oven Chicken $23

with mint raita & iceberg lettuce

Eggplant Parmy $22

with Napoli sauce, provolone & spinach

Macadamia Crusted Barramundi $24

with house tartare & iceberg lettuce

Panko Crumbed Pork Loin $24 with wasabi mayo & Japanese slaw

FERRIS

Bondi Festival is back with 17 days and nights of free and ticketed events designed to brighten your winter. The famous Bondi Festival Ice Rink and the legendary Bondi Vista Ferris Wheel return alongside a lineup of immersive performances, playful offerings and for the very first time, Gould St Street Party!

See the world premiere of Proud, Proud Woman: A Ruby Hunter Tribute celebrating Hunter’s enduring legacy, be drawn in to the award-winning story of Helios

about the son of the Sun God, and marvel at the endurance of four performers in the hilarious and gripping Burnout Paradise.

Enjoy the immersive game of accusation, deceit and murder at Werewolves, raise a glass to the unique wine tasting comedy In Pour Taste and dance your night away at The Bondi Social, along with many more shows!

Check out the full program and book your tickets at www.bondifestival.com.au

Coogee Cliffs at Dawn, by Michael Dane.

Wet and Windy

Words James Hutton - Publisher

Welcome to the July 2024 edition of The Beast, the monthly magazine for Sydney’s wet and windy beaches of the east. Honestly, I don’t mind the crappy weather, as long as it’s only for a few days a year.

Thanks to Bondi artist Elizabeth Skelsey for this month’s awesome cover painting of Bondi Road. Liz has such a cool style and I’m stoked to have her on the cover of The Beast. You can see more of Liz’s work at www.elizabethskelsey.com.

There’s some cool stuff happening in July. The Bondi Festival is on again from July 5-21, with over two weeks of events to brighten up your winter. The ice rink is back, as well as the Bondi Vista ferris wheel, alongside a lineup of immersive performances, playful offerings

and the inaugural Gould Street Party. To view the full program and to purchase tickets, please visit bondifestival.com.au.

The annual Beach Breaks festival is being held at Maroubra Beach on July 21 from 11am to 4pm, with the Australian Surfing Walk of Fame presentation to take place at 1pm. Beach Breaks celebrates the proud and colourful surfing history and culture of Maroubra and has grown into an epic annual event. There will be live music, stalls, entertainment and plenty of activities. For more information, please visit randwick.nsw.gov.au/beachbreaks.

In big news for the Eastern Suburbs, Lifeline has opened its first shop in the area at 269 Bondi Road. The store will be open every day and anyone can make a donation of quality goods during opening hours. Please check out their ad in this edition of The Beast magazine and give @lifelineshopbondi a follow on Instagram.

Thanks to all of our wonderful readers and the hard-working locals who keep this little publication chugging along. It’s no secret that the current economic climate has been tough. To all of the local businesses and government organisations that support us - I honestly can’t thank you enough. I’m very lucky to do what I do, and I wouldn’t be able to do it without your help. Cheers, James

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Sunday 21 July 11am – 4pm 1pm: Australian Surfing Walk of Fame Presentation

Finding Mr Right

In Search of Love

Dear Pearl - I need your help. I am in my early sixties, quite attractive, young at heart and active in mind and body. My problem is finding Mr Right, as I refuse to engage in online dating.

In the last five years I seem to have been solely pursued by elderly men suffering health problems, using the pickup line, “I lost my wife.” Perhaps I look like an aged care worker? And, when I fancy a hotty, I realise they are old enough to be my son.

I recently dated someone I was set up with. After a few hours, I was looking for the restaurant door after he told me he was a Russian spy connected to a satellite. Really?!

I want someone to have fun with, someone normal, and not the left-over-with-baggage men that appear at school reunions. Is it too much to ask? Is there anybody out there?

Jaylee Hillsdale

A Change of Outlook

Dear Jaylee - To quote my friend Fern, “Once a woman hits the age of sixty, men are looking

for one thing - either a nurse or a purse, or both if the man is elderly and still encumbered with child maintenance or a HECS debt.”

Fortunately, Pearl doesn’t subscribe to such pessimism. Having been married multiple times, I believe that dating at any age is fraught with some level of frustration, particularly if one is trusting love to an algorithm.

There’s the opportunity cost, regardless of age, associated with squandering time on pseudo-Russian spies rather than rock climbing or cold plunging with one’s friends.

If one is dating online, there’s the unwanted photos of male genitalia that inevitably lands in one’s inbox and exaggerated claims of appearance and wealth to contend with. For the younger single woman, fretting over whether one’s lips, breasts, eyebrows, eyelashes and booty are voluptuous enough to fit male expectations has become part of the social norm, not to forget the associated costs of these enhancements. And, for the single woman over fifty, one soon realises that one’s fading

beauty makes her the target of ailing 75-year-old men leering in the laundry aisle of Woolworths for a Viagra-worthy sassy lady to assist them with household duties.

My pragmatic advice is to change one’s outlook on dating and singledom. As always, I defer to the Kondo way - focus on things that spark joy, and if dating boorish men doesn’t spark joy, then don’t do it! Instead, enjoy the companionship of friends and cold plunges (one never knows who they will meet at an ice bath event at Bronte Beach while focusing on their dating resilience), and limit one’s online scrolling to indulgences at ‘Joy for Women’ and perhaps the occasional fling with a hotty.

And, if you do choose to date, view each date not as a chore but as dating skill practice and a chance to score a free coffee or beer. If anything, you will have amusing tales to regale your friends with, even if it means going on dates with wacky conspiracy theorists.

Pearl Clovelly

Words Pearl Bullivant Photo Gordon Gekko

staff, etc. The qualifying period has also been reduced to two years Please call Brendan to discuss further

The Beast's Monthly Mailbag

Words The Lovely People of the Eastern Beaches

The Coogee Bay Hotel Debacle

The Coogee Bay Precinct shares the questions, concerns and anger of many in the community about the decision to approve this deeply flawed proposal.

Why was it that the Development Application was in conciliation at the Land and Environment Court (LEC) for so long? We will never know. The public were excluded from the follow-up conciliation hearings conducted under privilege, with the only parties present being the Applicant and Council. Could it be that the LEC was seeking further changes?

Those residents who addressed the initial public hearing on May 19, 2022 felt the LEC Commissioner was open to their concerns, and those whose homes were visited felt the commissioner was very aware of the impacts of the height and bulk on their views, as well as on their privacy and other amenity.

The Applicant had taken the matter to the LEC in April 2022 on appeal after an initial public meeting of the Eastern Sydney City Planning Panel (the Panel) in December 2021 and follow-up meetings that were closed to the public. The Panel required that the Applicant address key concerns of the community and undertake a visual impact study including the potential impact on views from private dwellings and public places. The Applicant’s report regarding this was available to the public in April 2022. The appeal to the LEC was lodged at about the same time.

In May 2023 the Applicant lodged amended plans in response to the LEC process. These plans ameliorated the impact on Coogee Bay Road by setting back the upper levels and replacing the unpopular zig zag design with something more sympathetic to the heritage buildings on the other side of the road and the hotel site itself, got rid of the unpopular supermarket and removed vehicular access between the site and Vicar Street. However, it retained the excessive non-compliant height, separating it into two areas - the south west and north west corners along Vicar Street. This lessened the view loss from a few homes to the west but did nothing for hundreds more, nor did it lessen the visual impact when looking back to the site from the immediate foreshore parklands or the headlands.

These amended plans did not address the loss of five Washington palms that have stood as silent sentinels watching over Coogee for possibly 100 years and that have been mentioned in heritage reports over the years. They did not address the impact of directing all the traffic from the site - 58 residences, 15 new retail outlets and additional hotel accommodation - in and out of Arden Street, which is already dangerously congested. They did not provide any accommodation solutions for the residents of the 35 low cost rental units to be demolished to make way for 58 expensive units.

Critically, these amended plans included a new struc-

ture - a three-storey hotel block running east to west alongside the south of the beer garden to Arden Street. This will block and diminish visual access to the 1870s two-storey heritage hotel building - from the foreshore opposite and from Arden Street and its footpaths. It is this intimate openness between the 1870s building and the beachfront that forms the basis of the heritage listing of the hotel. How could this be considered appropriate given the heritage controls and foreshore protection provisions of the Randwick LEP and the state’s own relevant State Environmental Planning Policies?

There were 184 objections to these amended plans and another 2,000 names added to the community petition, bringing it to over 9,000 in total. These amended plans were what was being considered by the LEC when the matter was withdrawn and sent back to the Panel. As I said, we will never know what the LEC would have decided.

Certainly, the political environment had changed. Over the almost three years since the DA had been lodged in July 2021 there had been a change in government. The previous government had changed planning in NSW so our elected councillors no longer have a say on private developments in their area, putting it in the hands of Panels. Under the new Labor Government and the pressure to build more homes it is proposed to sweep aside heritage considerations and local LEP requirements for large areas around railway stations and town centres. Not that it is directly relevant to Coogee, but it sets the tone.

The matter was handed back to the Panel on March 22, with a meeting date just a month later. Randwick Council met on March 26 and raised three key objections - reduce the height by one to two levels, retain the five Washington palms and assist the long-term tenants. The Panel meeting was addressed online by 13 residents who spoke elo-

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Monthly Mailbag

quently and pointedly on the key issues and urged support for the Council resolution. We suspect our input fell on deaf ears. Only one of us was asked a follow-up question by Chair Carl Scully. We were met with apparent total disinterest. I was particularly shocked by the apparent lack of acknowledgement of the importance of heritage and foreshore zone controls for this iconic site.

There is so much that could be said about this. For a more comprehensive history of the saga, please check out our Facebook page, ‘Coogee Bay Hotel site12m and no more’.

Rona Wade Coogee Bay Precinct Committee

P.S. The Precinct has been notified that the applicant will be appealing the one condition on the approval - that there be an acoustic report within 12 months. The applicant is seeking five years. The appeal will go to the LEC in July.

Reg Mombassa

Dear James - Mea culpa! I am so sorry that I missed writing to The Beast before the June edition was published. I wanted to thank you for the Reg Mombassa cover and the interview in the May edition.

Reg’s responses in the interview show just how wide his artistic, musical and social interests are. We are so lucky that he has made Sydney his home. Thanks James!

Alan Wood

Bellevue Hill

Free Parking for Residents in All of Waverley

Why is 15-20 minute free parking not an option for all Waverley residents (with a Waverley sticker) in all parking spots within the Waverley local government area? Currently there are only a handful of such spots.

This move would stimulate the local economy, promote community interaction and be a reasonable compromise on local parking restrictions. Instead of common sense we have highway robbery

because the council is hopelessly dependent upon parking tickets as a revenue stream. This is lazy local government, promotes resentment all-round and means people feel the council is working against its constituents and its small businesses.

$129 for a quick cup of takeaway coffee, a ‘g’day’ to a mate and an urgent five-minute phone call is just plain unfair. All this around the corner from my place of residence because the parking boundaries are ridiculous and often have no basis in geographic realities.

Then, the biggest cop-out: no local court of appeal (as some councils do fairly have). The problem is shuffled off to the bureaucratic quagmire that is Revenue NSW. No one has a chance of making a reasonable appeal based on local scenarios.

I know I’m not the first to complain, and this will fall on deaf ears to a council addicted to its parking revenue, however, it’s liberating to say, “Grow up Waverley Council and start working for your constituents and small businesses, not against them.”

If someone runs for mayor with a policy of twenty minutes’ free parking for all residents in the Waverley area they will get my vote.

Luke Kennedy Bondi

Nefarious William

Dear James - I’m not sure if William Wallace (Male Imperiled at the Hands of McIver’s Ladies Baths, Monthly Mailbag, The Beast, June 2024) is being satirical or serious in his letter seeking refuge from a woman whom he describes as big set, surly, middle aged and sent from Satan for reprimanding him about entering the very well known and innocuous ladies pool. In my mind the woman was probably not bearing the attributes Mr Wallace so inelegantly describes her as having.

The pool is known as a safe place for women who want to swim, and I quote, “McIver’s Baths is used by older women,

pregnant women, nursing women, Muslim women, survivors of rape and domestic violence and women from different ethnic backgrounds. It is known as a place where women can feel safe and don’t have to deal with unwanted attention from men.”

Mr Wallace not only scaled a fence to get into the baths, but - this is where it gets confusing - claims to have jumped into the pool to avoid injury. He then claims the woman wasn’t concerned with his safety. Has Mr Wallace considered that he is the one that appears nefarious? Scaling a fence and entering an area he knows is out of bounds?

Was this woman seeking retribution or shooing away a potential sex pest who managed to sneak into a space for women? Has William Wallace admitted to trespassing, and should Randwick Council’s rangers have a word with him? I mean, for his sake, he seems to need protection from his own unwise actions.

Diana Bondi Junction

Coogee Bay Hotel Screws Local Businesses

The recent addition to the Coogee Bay Hotel just shows the lack of support or respect the pub’s owner has for local surrounding businesses. Bringing in a Maroubra café operator to serve coffee straight onto Arden Street has caused a tremendous effect on the surrounding cafés.

The Pub has given this operator free tables and chairs on Arden Street, right opposite the Rainbow, rent free and cost free. What possible good could the pub get from this move besides purposely screwing over the local businesses that sided with the local community in voicing their disapproval of the pub’s proposed development?

It’s hard enough for these local businesses to survive without having to compete with someone getting a free ride from a mega pub. Shame on you!

Ollie Coogee

Precincts

This July, the following meetings

Rose Bay – Monday 1 July, 7 – 9pm

Charing Cross – Wednesday 10 July, 7 – 9pm Queens Park – Wednesday 31 July, 7 – 9pm

\Visit waverley.nsw.gov.au/precinct to find out location of the above meetings closer to the date.

Not sure which Precinct you belong to? Visit waverley.nsw.gov.au/findyourprecinct

meetings.

Waverley Council proudly supports resident run Precinct

Old South Head Road

Please, can the council do something about Old South Head Road and the right turn into Victoria Road? It is ridiculous that cars line up for ages waiting for the cars that turn right.

It’s not safe, no one lets anyone in and cars can be behind a right turning car for ages. Maybe the council can spend the money they rake in from parking tickets on making that road less of a pain in the arse.

AG Bondi

Thank You, Glasses Finder

On Mother’s Day I enjoyed a family walk at North Clovelly dog park. Sadly, my new reading glasses dropped out of my jacket pocket. Two days later I retuned to the park to see my glasses carefully placed on a rock at the entrance to the park! Thank you, to the thoughtful person who made my day!

Charmaine Randwick

Bus Driver Behaviour

Dear James - I have commented before about the driving behaviour of the present crop of bus drivers. I would like to add to that list of poor driving habits that indicates that the private companies do not check on the drivers’ knowledge of the road rules or their responsibilities as a public transport service.

Frequently, buses take the middle lane past busy bus stops instead of the kerbside lane. As so many of the buses through Randwick, for example, carry the ‘Bus not in service’ sign, a waiting passenger would assume that the bus would be going straight through. Therefore you miss the bus because you had no time to flag it down or the bus was unable to get over to the kerb. I have spoken to drivers and informed them that they should always assume there will be a passenger waiting, particularly at busy bus stops. Secondly, I had to remonstrate to the driver of a 390X bendy bus that he had endangered the life of

a food delivery cyclist by driving recklessly fast and too close while passing him along Bronte Road in Charing Cross at 1.45pm on May 13. The driver justified his behaviour by saying that the cyclist had got in front of him at the traffic lights at the Victoria Road intersection. But it took the bus 100 metres to catch up to the cyclist. The driver clearly either did not know the law about overtaking a cyclist or did not care. He did not slow down or attempt to move over to safely pass the cyclist. As I cycle this route, I thought it could be me under the bus’s wheels or slammed into an opening car door.

A bendy bus is amongst the most dangerous heavy vehicles on the road for a cyclist. This driver should not be in charge of a bus. Does the company check for knowledge of the full spectrum of the road rules in its haste to get as many drivers on the books? I complained to Transport for NSW but have not heard back as yet.

Lesley Spicer Coogee

A Year and a Half On I’ve been meaning to write this for some time now - 18 months to be exact. It is simply to express my continuing dismay and disappointment at what the Bondi Pavilion has ended up looking like.

Having attended sundry council meetings in the months that led to the election of 2017 and witnessed the public and councillors arguing over bathrooms and heritage, along with community and cultural engagement with the Pavilion, words can’t express the renewed insult every time I pass through what has been turned into a concrete wasteland.

All the precious rhetoric about preserving heritage values, how the amphitheatre and The Bucket List had to therefore go, only to be replaced by concrete buttresses and a vast concrete courtyard... horrendous.

I have enclosed photos to show the unlovely juxtaposition of artistic and architectural eras

and styles. There is already clear deterioration of this cold and grey looking concrete as shown in one photo, just outside the Yalangang Room. The paint job is already looking shabby. In keeping with the heritage values, it might have been nice had there been a bit of contrasting white paint on window or door trims, balustrades and rosettes around the Pavilion.

Use of the rear courtyard has contracted to the remaining patch of grass left in the northern courtyard. The planting of those poor palm trees was not even an attempt to provide shade in summer. It’s all so ill-conceived. Architecture firm Tonkin Zulaikha Greer should hang its head in shame, but not more so than the persons who contracted them in the first place. I’m still so disappointed.

Tina Harris Bondi

Random Waves From Strangers

I’ve been experiencing some delicious dollops of dopamine while driving lately, since deciding to slow down and let others in or pass.

I only have to let that car out, or let that mother with her pram or that school kid glancing up from their mobile phone cross the road in front of me and I get a wave. How nice is that?!

It feels good, all the more so when everyone else has driven straight past them. Altruism loops back to the giver; it’s an immediate sugar hit.

In an area known for its wealth and entitlement, random waves from strangers gives back a feeling of community. Someone cares. Pass it on, the dopamine is delicious.

Steve Tamarama

Fluffy on Borrowed Time

Dear James - Do Waverley residents want dead dogs? This is the third time in two weeks my rescue staffy has been rushed from behind and jumped on by off-leash dogs while walking in Bronte neighbourhoods. My dog is friendly - so many are not.

Donate your unwanted bike

Saturday 13 July

9.30am – 12.30pm

Randwick Sustainability Hub 27 Munda Street, Randwick

Help us recycle bikes, support kids in need, and reduce landfill waste.

Donated bikes will be revamped and go to children from disadvantaged backgrounds, or be recycled for parts.

This project is an NSW Environment Protection Authority Waste and Sustainable Materials Strategy initiative, funded from the waste levy.

Today, a brown ‘oodle’ mix I’ll call ‘Fluffy’ (likely allowed to do whatever it wants, with all aggression dismissed due to its ‘sweet’ breed) got loose from its house (so I thought) and ran up to my dog from behind, circling it and barking aggressively inches from my dog’s face. I was relieved to see a woman emerging from her house to get her dog. Indifferent, she waltzed by wearing airpods with a not-in-use lead draped around her neck, and I realised that, 1) Fluffy had not gotten loose from any house, 2) she was, in fact, on a leisurely walk and had allowed Fluffy to run up to a random staffy and bark in the staffy’s face for around ten seconds without any reaction, and 3) Fluffy will likely suffer some day because of her lack of care.

She did not bother to acknowledge me, my dog or hers as she walked past the three of us standing in the middle of the road to her left, while her dog still barked aggressively and attempted to get past me to my dog while it hid behind me as I stood slack-jawed in disbelief at her disregard. Eventually, Fluffy ran after her, but not before harassing my dog for another ten seconds.

I wonder whether she doesn’t care about Fluffy or is just ignorant? Despite some strong words to her, she didn’t seem to care as she walked away, humming in the breeze while her dog sprinted ahead of her to find its next victim, still off-leash. She could think differently after Fluffy bleeds out in the middle of Bronte Road after running up and lunging at the wrong dog. I sincerely hope this does not happen, however, and I wish Fluffy all the best. To its owner; a lifetime of stepping in dog poo would suffice. Why not keep your dogs onlead if you can’t control them? I’m confused and wondering if I should find a scary collar and rename my dog ‘Biter’ on a visible harness to keep these people away from us.

Molly Waverley

Hello Bike Recovery

Dear James - Usually complaining about the proliferation of the disposable hire bikes, it was with happy amazement that yesterday (May 8), while walking through Dunningham Park, Coogee, we watched as two young men stood precariously on the cliff edge. We asked what they were up to and were told that they were attempting to haul a blue ‘Hello’ bike up from the rocks 20 metres below. Another man was at the bottom of the cliff. It took the three of them, plus our assistance, over two hours to retrieve one smashed bike, and they were going to try for another.

We were unable to find out how they learnt of the existence of the bikes, as the base of the cliff is not easily accessible, even at low tide, and is not visible from the park. Why would a company that is happy to have hundreds of bikes strewn about the East spend hours to retrieve these two wrecks? We couldn’t imagine that they were told to do so by the council. Is this the start of a social conscience by the hire companies? There are more of these bikes at the base of the cliffs, as we have encountered many while scrambling around the rocks from Coogee to Gordons Bay.

Lesley Spicer Coogee

Credit Where It Is Due

Dear Editor - In times when everyone can be so critical of Council, I want to give credit where credit is due. We have now moved into the modern age where I can do my parking permit renewal online, and I booked the guys to come and pick up the results of my spring cleaning online too.

For the first time I can remember in a decade, I received a reminder notice of my expiring permit. You could say it’s about time, but let’s be positive, people! Also, to echo the recent letter about the Bondi Pavilion, I absolutely love it! I have been to so many free events there and it’s great.

There’s lots for Waverley to still improve, like the upkeep of the parks, but let’s hope the recent improvements isn’t where it stops. Kudos to whoever is driving the change.

Leslie P Bondi

Parking/Wylie's Investigation

I was going to write a letter hoping that it would be published so I could garner some opinion from other members of the public on this issue, but as time has gone by I am convinced that you need to look into this and try and get justice! I’ll keep it as short as possible...

I received a parking ticket while parked outside Wylie’s Baths a few Sundays ago. I was in a line of approximately 50 other cars, all parked rear to kerb. I was surprised. Upon closer inspection, I discovered that Randwick Council has set aside 11 spaces between 7am and 7pm on weekends and public holidays, and these 11 spaces are indeed signposted, so there’s no escaping that fact.

My issue, however, is that every weekend many, many people are getting fined here without realising they shouldn’t be parked here. If you are interested in taking this further, please let me know. I have been in discussion with Randwick Council and they ‘almost’ see my point.

I have been back down to Neptune Street three times since and taken notes on who is parking here and when. In the space of just over an hour of data collection over three weekends I have seen no less than 19 tickets handed out. That is approx $2,500 of fines that I personally saw written in about an hour and a half over three days. This area is restricted for 24 hours in total over each weekend, and I am genuinely horrified at how many fines are being issued every weekend. I have asked Council for the data, but they have not given me any. They are making a small fortune here, and nobody even realises they are

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feel

in the wrong. Like I said, if you are interested in investigating this further, please let me know. I have also emailed the NSW Ombudsman, and I will also be emailing the major TV networks, because I am adamant that this is unjust and unfair.

I’m happy to cop a fine when it’s legit, but this is totally catching people unawares and it has to be stopped. I’ve got pages of information and data, and even witnesses I spoke to down there, and I will go again this weekend. This needs broader coverage, so if you are keen, let me know! Sorry for the long email, thanks guys.

Bill Bondi

The

Beauty of Bondi

Upon the shores where waves embrace,

Where sun and sea find their sweet space,

At Bondi’s edge, the surfers play, In the dance of waves, they find their way.

Golden sands stretch far and wide,

Where the ocean’s rhythm and tides are high,

With boards in hand, they greet the swell,

A dance with nature, a story to tell.

Beneath the sun, the waves rise high,

As seagulls sing a lullaby, Surfers paddle, hearts held tight, To catch the crest, bathed in sunlight.

Foamy fingers reach for the shore, A symphony of crashes, a mighty roar,

Balancing on liquid grace, They ride the waves, a daring chase.

Sun-kissed faces, salty air, Wind-whipped hair, without a care,

In the curling embrace of the ocean’s song, They carve their tails all day long.

From dawn’s first light to sunset’s hue,

At Bondi Beach, the ocean’s true, Surfers ride the liquid trails, Leaving behind ephemeral tales.

With every wave, a connection found,

A dance with nature, a love profound,

At Bondi’s heart, where surfers meet,

A symphony of joy, in rhythm sweet.

Xavier

Wright

Matraville ¢

Xavier’s poem was the winning entry in The Beast Young Writers Competition. We’ll be running it again in a few months.

Please send your feedback to letters@thebeast.com.au and include your name and suburb. We try and publish as many of them as possible, but nothing too crazy please.

Embrace a Different Pace

I am, therefore I think.

Local Artist... Elizabeth Skelsey from Bondi Beach

Local artist Elizabeth Skelsey is the talent behind this month’s cover painting of Bondi Road. She shares her local favourites with The Beast...

How long have you lived here?

I have lived in Bondi Beach since 1991, although I lived in the Americas for a while during that time.

Why do you live here? I love living in the Bondi Beach area; I love the people here, I love the cafés and the culture.

What's your favourite beach?

I love Bondi, Bronte, Coogee, Gordons Bay and Tamarama, plus all the little rocky coves to the north and south.

What's your favorite eatery? Tin Pin and The Char, both on Bondi Road.

What's your favorite drink?

Vegetable sloosh (search ‘Cleanin Out Your Tubes Nice & Liquid Salad Recipe’ on YouTube).

Best thing about the Eastern Suburbs? The culture and the wonderful people, the dogs, the ocean, the clean air, the lifestyle and the wonderful healthy environment. Also, the great artistic culture and colour of the area.

Worst thing about the Eastern Suburbs? The traffic, which can be overwhelming at times.

How would you describe your art? My art is from my spirit, my head, my body and my heart. My goal is to combine everything I am and know in a totally joyous activity and also contribute to a healthy culture both locally and worldwide where we can all thrive and come to our full potential.

Where can people see your work? By visiting my website, www.elizabethskelsey.com, or by searching ‘Elizabeth Skelsey’ on Google.

Who are your artistic inspirations? I love so many artists and styles. My very favourites are Édouard Vuillard, Margaret Olley, Lloyd Rees, Russell Drysdale and the great Mexican mural painter José Clemente Orozco. There are so many artistic loves in so many forms, so I find it overwhelming to name them all.

What are you working on at the moment? A series of light and interiors exploring the outer and inner spaces we create spiritually, physically, psychologically and mentally.

Do you have any exhibitions coming up? Not currently, but I’m accepting offers.

When did you discover you had a gift for your craft? My dear mother helped me as a child to develop my love of art and the skills to manifest my vision.

Any other local artists to look out for? Joanna Cole, Kevin McKay, Dinah Wakefield, Yelena Revis, Kate Graham, Belinda Nadwie, Tony Belobrajdic, Kathleen Rhee, Graham Eldridge and Lou Sheldon.

Did you study art? I studied at East Sydney Technical College, Alexander Mackie and COFA.

Any words of wisdom for aspiring artists? Paint as much as you can, talk to other artists and look a lot at what’s around and inside you, and keep it simple, with an open mind and heart.

What music are you into at the moment? All the modern jazz masters I hear on East Side Radio 89.7FM. I listen to that station all day.

Who is your favourite person? Thom Knoles, teacher and master of Vedic Meditation.

What do you get up to on the weekends? I don’t really have a weekend; my entire life is a weekend, and I love every moment of it.

What do you do for work? I’m a full-time art worker. I love to paint for people, I love the vision, the research process and the execution of the picture, plus the physical aspect of moving the paint from palette to canvas. It’s a whole body, mind and spirit activity.

Do you have a favourite quote? I like to invert the René Descartes statement, ‘Cogito, ergo sum’ (I think, therefore I am), to, ‘I am, therefore I think.’ I believe this inversion is far more accurate to the human incarnation.

Any other words of wisdom for readers of The Beast? Yes, ‘Jai Guru Dev.’

Interview James Hutton

Emergency Exit Concerns at Westfield Bondi Junction

Words

An emergency exit issue at Westfield Bondi Junction is being investigated following the mass stabbings and subsequent evacuation of customers and staff in April.

A report tabled at the May 21 full meeting of Waverley Council said that “in heavy rain, a section of the Westfield shopping centre is flooding, which can prevent safe exit from one of the fire stairs. This is a priority for Council and Westfield to resolve.”

The problem was not an issue during the April 13 evacuation of shoppers and staff, but councillors agreed on a motion from Dominic Wy Kanak (Greens) that there should be a briefing from the General Manager and Council officers on “potential adverse public infrastructure effects to public safety egress by stairwell/fire escape out of Westfield Bondi Junction.”

The flooding takes place at the rear of a store, and a Waverley Council spokesperson said that since the Council meeting, the

problem had been traced to a stormwater pit in Oxford Street.

“Council officers inspected and cleared several stormwater pits and pipes in the vicinity of the centre and isolated a leak from a road pit on the northern side of Oxford Street.”

“This pit has been sealed, and Council is working with structural engineers to develop a solution to remediate it to prevent further flooding to the store’s rear.”

Flooding after heavy rain has been an issue at Westfield for a number of years. There was a partial roof collapse in December 2015 which caused flooding in several parts of the centre and led to an evacuation of shoppers. And in March 2022, there was a ceiling collapse over the escalators and shoppers narrowly missed being hit by falling debris.

Westfield’s parent company, Scentre Group, was approached for comment on the latest flooding problem but did not respond to our queries.

Local VIEW Club Helping Disadvantaged Kids in the Classroom

Words Anthony Maguire

Photo The Smith Family

Want to help The Smith Family improve the educational prospects of disadvantaged kids?

Pop into Coogee Diggers at 11am on the fourth Wednesday of the month to learn about the work of Sydney Eastern Suburbs VIEW Club.

Formed in 2017, the club sponsors two of The Smith Family’s Learning for Life students. This program helps poor families break the cycle of poverty by meeting the cost of school essentials like uniforms, books and excursions.

At the meetings, each person gives a donation of $5. They usually hear an address from a guest speaker, followed by an optional lunch. There are also outings, such as an upcoming foodie tour of Chinatown. And in July members will go further afield, heading to Davistown on the Central Coast by train and ferry for Christmas in July.

To find out more, phone Jan on 0422 922 095 or email nettiet@bigpond.com.

The club helps disadvantaged kids get a good education.

Anthony Maguire Photo Frank Lowy

The emergency exit issue now seems to have been addressed.

All Welcome at the Modernised Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club

Words and Photo Anthony Maguire

Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club is about to reopen after extensive renovations that will cater to a much broader cross-section of the community.

When the club was founded in 1906, surf clubs were not seen as the domain of people in wheelchairs and babies in prams, but now the renovated building has ramps and a lift, making it both wheelchair and pram-friendly.

Women were fringe dwellers in the old lifesaving world, and the female changing rooms, showers and toilets were miniscule in comparison to those provided for male members. Again, that has been addressed under the multi-million dollar makeover, with much more spacious facilities for females.

The renovated club retains the building’s art deco frontage, while offering a much larger patrol room, a new office and an expanded terrace. Gone is the old gymnasium with its rusting equipment, replaced by a modern facility. Other new features include a bar, kitchen and servery.

“It’s been a long journey getting the upgrade approved and funded, and there was a major hiccup when the previous builders went bust and left numerous defects that had to be fixed,” Tamarama Surf Life Saving Club President Matteo Salval told The Beast.

“But now the project has finally been completed, we’re really happy and very grateful to all of those who’ve assisted with funding. The new clubhouse will enable us to better support our education activities, especially for migrants and new lifesavers. We are very excited about the future.”

Most of the funds came from Waverley Council, with the state and federal governments also assisting with grants. Corporate donations came from Easts Leagues and Sculpture by the Sea, with private donors also dipping into their pockets.

The club officially reopens on Saturday, July 27, when NSW Governor Margaret Beazley will be guest of honour at the inauguration ceremony.

All Systems Go for Bronte Surf Life Saving Club Redevelopment

Words Anthony Maguire

Photo Warren and Mahoney

After extensive community consultation and architectural fine-tuning, the redevelopment of Bronte Surf Life Saving Club has been approved - but the cost of the project has increased to $18 million, almost two thirds of which will be covered by Waverley Council.

Originally the budget was $13 million. The increase includes additional elements such as a green rooftop and stronger fortifications against storm surges. The state government’s Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel and Design Excellence Panel support the revised design.

Waverley Council voted to increase its contribution by $4 million to a total of $11.6 million and negotiated an updated Heads of Agreement to reflect the revised budget. Remaining funds are coming from $6.4 million in state and federal government grants and a dribble of funding raised by the club.

Waverley Mayor Paula Masselos says she is “delighted” that the project is now steaming ahead. And Bronte SLSC President Basil Scaffidi is also very happy about the redevelopment finally being approved, saying it “will ensure the service the club provides to the community will continue into the future.”

Club President Matteo Salval says the renovated club will have a strong educational role.

An artist’s impression of the new Bronte Surf Life Saving Club.

That Sinking Feeling

Recent heavy rains have caused the ground to give way at the end of an oceanside street in Dover Heights.

Described as a ‘sinkhole’ in media reports, the enormous crater at the end of Oceanview Avenue is worryingly close to an adjacent property, where residents Leanne and Colin Scotts lost their gas supply because of a ruptured pipeline. They have also been deprived of their offstreet parking, with the cave-in undermining their forecourt.

“I feel frustrated because this didn’t just happen overnight,” Mrs Scotts told The Beast.

“There was a massive landslide in February 2023 and the council said then that they’d be carrying out repairs within a month. But all they’ve done is collect some rocks and put barriers at the end of the street. This is a hazardous situation and should have been addressed before it came to this.”

Her next door neighbour, marine mechanic Franco Travato, was also critical of the council.

“They should have seen this coming,” he said.

While it’s understandable for the rattled residents to be casting the council as the

villain of the piece, it should be noted that this kind of dramatic coastal erosion is one of the nasty results of climate change and it’s happening all over the world.

Waverley Council has in fact been trying to stabilise the area for a while.

“Waverley Council has spent a considerable amount of money to date on stablisation works near the corner of Oceanview Avenue and Ray Street, Dover Heights, following a major landslip at the location about a year ago,” a council spokesperson explained.

“We have undertaken design works informed by geotechnical investigations and engaged a contractor to undertake permanent works at the site to meet the future demands of largescale stormwater events.”

These works, consisting of a retaining wall and new stormwater infrastructure, are being carried out by contractors Land & Marine, a specialist in keeping the forces of nature at bay - they handle a lot of big coastal projects, and as well as addressing the problems at the end of Oceanview Avenue, they are contractors for the upgrade of the Clifftop Walkway.

Michael Strikes Out for Literary Success With Demon Romance

Words Anthony Maguire

Photo Maggie Antonio

As a child, Michael Garozzo loved reading Harry Potter books and day-dreamed about attending Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

Now he has created his own school of the occult with the publication of his novel, Born Upon a Curse, a supernatural romance set in a college-age academy for demons.

It’s the Coogee author’s eleventh novel. The previous ten were for young readers, but Born Upon a Curse is aimed at the adult market, with a central female character who has to do battle with a promiscuous alter-ego. Mr Garozzo, who writes under the pen-name M. Dane, says it’s the first in a series.

Aged 37, Mr Garozzo says that as well as finding inspiration in Harry Potter, he was influenced by the success of Caroline Peckham’s Zodiac Academy paranormal romance books.

“They’ve taken the world by storm, and made me think to myself, ‘I can write something like that.’”

Born Upon a Curse is available on Amazon.

Coogee author Michael Garozzo, aka M. Dane.

Words and Photo Anthony Maguire

What a hole.

The latest from Randwick City Council about living in this great city

Randwick News

Randwick Mayor Philipa Veitch

This month begins with NAIDOC Week, which kicks off on Sunday 7 July. This is an important week where we celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Respected Aboriginal elder from La Perouse, Aunty Maxine Ryan, will be sharing her love and knowledge of Aboriginal arts and crafts in a creative shell workshop on Friday 12 July at the Lionel Bowen Library in Maroubra. Sign up to this free event and learn how to create your own artwork with shells.

On Sunday 14 July Randwick City Council will hold a small civic ceremony at the La Perouse Headland to mark Bastille Day. This annual event commemorates the Storming of the Bastille, a turning point in the French Revolution in 1789. The day is also a celebration of French history and culture.

If you’re interested in learning the skills to fix and reuse everyday items or regenerate and support our natural environment, join one of our Saturday Circle workshops on Saturday 13 July at Randwick Sustainability Hub.

From clothes swaps to toy swaps, bike maintenance workshops, textiles mending groups, community birding and growing food for wildlife, there’s something for everyone. This month you can even help us recycle bikes, reduce landfill and support kids in need by donating your unwanted bikes. Check out the program on our website and book your spot today.

What’s On

SUN 7 JULY MARKETS

8am – 2pm

Broadarrow Reserve, Maroubra

FRI 12 JULY SHELL WORKSHOP 2pm – 3pm Lionel Bowen Library, Maroubra

SAT 13 JULY

SATURDAY CIRCLE 27 Munda St, Randwick

SAT 13 JULY

DONATE YOUR BIKE 9.30am – 12.30pm Randwick Sustainability Hub 27 Munda St, Randwick

SUN 21 JULY

BEACH BREAKS 11am – 4pm Maroubra Beach

SUN 28 JULY

PLANT WITH US 8.30am – 10.30am 11am – 1pm Heffron Park, Maroubra

Councillor Philipa Veitch

Mayor of Randwick

Residents Fear Burrows Park Upgrade Could Depart From Game Plan

The Battle of Burrows Park continues to simmer away, with a residents’ group lashing out at Randwick City Council about a lack of transparency on upgrade proposals.

Previously it was looking as though there was broad agreement between the community, sports organisations and Council on the possibility of slightly extending the playing field and replacing the amenities block. There would be no incursion into the neighbouring dog exercise area or substantial expansion of the existing sports ground footprint.

But now Friends of Burrows Park is calling foul over an allegedly secretive approach being taken by Council as it oversees the drawing-up of a park masterplan by a firm of consultants.

“Randwick Council is not being open about even the scope of the masterplan,” Friends of Burrows Park spokesperson

Tim Fleming told The Beast.

“I had to make an FOI request to get the statement they sent to the consultant.”

Mr Fleming said that the consultant’s fee was originally going to be around $250,000, but has now blown out to the half a million dollar mark. He said this could indicate that something more ambitious than a playing field upgrade and new amenities block is being canvassed.

A petition has been started on change.org headed ‘Save Clovelly’s Burrows Park from overdevelopment: Demand Council transparency.’ It had gathered 287 signatures as The Beast was going to press.

A spokesperson for Randwick City Council told The Beast, “The scope of the Burrows Park masterplan has been publicly available since Councillors resolved to develop a plan containing two options for the park, one exploring the expansion of the sports field and the other maintaining the existing field.”

“Both options will include an upgraded amenities building and improvements to existing dog walking facilities. Council staff are bound by the Council resolution to remain within this scope,” the spokesperson explained.

The spokesperson said budget allocations for the upgrade are publicly available in Council’s annual Budget and Operational Plans.

“Council will undertake a full consultation with the community - including on the costs and impacts of the options presented - before Councillors vote to progress construction of a preferred option.”

“The cost of planning, design and construction work for both options will be determined by the masterplan, but projects that involve construction of new facilities for public use require significant investment.”

Suggestions that there is some kind of secret agenda to dramatically expand the footprint of sports facilities were adamantly rejected by the spokesperson.

“Council understands the value of Burrows Park to residents, and that there is some anxiety about possible changes to this much-loved community space. Senior staff have attended meetings of concerned residents to update them on the plan’s progress. At these meetings, Council has ruled out the suggestions that Council is proposing the construction of a grandstand or car park on site.”

Words and Photo Anthony Maguire

Residents are calling for greater transparency in the Burrows Park upgrade plan.

Bondi Festival Returns With Epic Entertainment Program

Words Anthony Maguire Photo Darren Gill

It’s back! The beachside Ferris wheel, the ice-skating rink, and more than two weeks of entertainment and partying.

Presented by Waverley Council, the Bondi Festival will

take place from July 5 to 21 at the Pavilion and other locations around Bondi Beach.

Kicking off the entertainment action is a tribute show to Indigenous musician Ruby

Hunter at the Pavilion on the evening of Saturday, July 6. Featuring singer-songwriters Emily Wurramara and Dan Sultan, it’s called Proud, Proud Woman: A Ruby Hunter Tribute

Another entertainment highlight is Burnout Paradise, a humorous social commentary where actors perform tasks while exercising on gym treadmills. This show, a big hit at last year’s Melbourne Fringe Festival, runs from Thursday, July 11 to Saturday, July 13 at the Pavilion.

To top off the event, it’s fiesta time on Gould Street from 11am-4pm on Saturday, July 20, with the inaugural Gould Street Party offering eats, beats, local brewing offerings and shopping pop-ups.

For the full festival program and event bookings, please visit www.bondifestival.com.au/ event.

Viva la treadmill: the satirical show Burnout Paradise.

Was bad boy behaviour part of a betting scam?

Crime News

A-League Star Embroiled in Betting Scandal

A-league soccer player Ulises Dávila was arrested at his South Coogee home on May 17 and charged over an alleged betting scam.

Police allege Dávila, 33-yearold captain of the Macarthur Bulls, enabled punters to win huge amounts of money by deliberately provoking yellow card cautions for infractions like arguing with the referee. The cautions were handed out during matches against Melbourne Victory and Sydney FC late last year. This brought about a windfall for punters who had placed bets on yellow card tallies in these matches through a South American wagering platform. One punter is said to have won $190,000 after placing 21 bets in a single minute. Pulling the puppet strings was a shadowy South American figure known as The Controller, according to police.

Mexican-born Dávila is said to have been helped by fellow-Bulls players Kearyn Baccus and Clayton Lewis, paying each of them $10,000 for displays of bad boy behaviour which led to refs holding up yellow cards.

The three have been charged with corrupting the betting outcomes of events. They have also been suspended by Football Australia pending the outcome of upcoming court proceedings.

Rapist Jailed

A sex monster who raped a woman in Bondi two decades ago has finally faced justice after advances in DNA technology put him in the dock at Downing Centre District Court.

In 2003 and 2004, Darren Kennedy attacked four women, seeking out his victims in Bondi, Bexley, Croydon and Marrickville. His 24-year-old Bondi victim was targeted at night in a laneway near the beach and forced to perform oral sex, the court was told. Another victim was a Year 12 student who woke to find him in her bedroom.

Kennedy, now 54, was found guilty of four counts of sexual intercourse without consent and a string of other offences. He was jailed for 17 years.

Guards Keeping an Eye on New Plaza

Randwick Council has been employing a pair of security guards to keep the peace in the newly-opened Waratah Plaza at night following complaints of antisocial behaviour. The council has also put up signs prohibiting alcohol consumption.

Carmen Avila, secretary to the body corporate in a block of flats facing onto the plaza, said a wall below her bedroom window had become a public urinal for drunks who patronise the plaza at night. The side passageway of the unit block was also a popular spot for calls of nature.

Ms Avila told The Beast that she confronted a middle-aged man who was about to take a leak in the passageway.

“He kept his hand on his zipper and said, ‘Do you want

to see what I’ve got?’ Thankfully he then he backed off and wandered away.”

She said the situation had improved since the council had employed the guards and installed the signage.

Domestic Violence Blitz

Police have posted ‘wanted’ notices of numerous alleged Domestic Violence (DV) offenders as part of the ongoing DV crack-down Operation Amerok.

The vast majority are men, like Jonathan Bourke, 36, whose mugshot appears on the Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command’s Facebook page. Bourke is wanted on DV arrest warrants and known to frequent the Bondi area.

Operation Amerok recently saw a blitz across all NSW Police commands on alleged DV offenders who haven’t been complying with Apprehended Violence Orders or bail conditions. Over four days in mid-May, 554 people were arrested and more than 1,000 charges laid. Meanwhile, police are using the ‘wanted’ notices to target alleged offenders who’ve slipped through the net and didn’t have a visit from the law during the Operation Amerok blitz.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, phone 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or the 000 emergency line.

Has anyone seen this wanted DV offender?

Words Jimmy Felon

Photos Luciano Moggi

Shiny Objects

There’s something about surfing that gets the imagination going; the lure of finding the perfect wave, pulling us like gravity into some mystic ideal of what we might equate to Nirvana. If you have the surfing bug, searching for that utopian feeling creates excitement, passion, joy and - for many - total preoccupation. Indeed, there are many other things that can create such feelings within us, but for me it is the perfect metaphor on many levels to describe the power of seduction. When we are seduced by something or someone, we are in essence being lured and tempted by some form of magnetism that creates desire. But what is it about human nature that can make us blind to such powers of seduction? According to Robert Greene, author of The Concise Laws of Human Nature, we are not always content with what we have or satisfied with our current circumstances. He suggests there is something innate within us that makes us prey to deviating if not desiring something new or better once we have obtained or taken possession of that something. The very notion of having achieved a goal leaves us vulnerable to the next new shiny object, and the more difficult it is to attain this new object the more desirable it becomes to get it.

To use our surfing analogy, we tend to paddle out where waves are breaking the best - “That looks like the best break, I want to surf over there.” But once we are there we start to look around and notice another bank a hundred or so metres down the beach with surfers seeming to be getting better waves. We then paddle over to that break, only to realise the waves are no better than where we originally started. This ‘grass is always greener’ syndrome, though powerful, is just an illusion in a psychological sense.

This illusion is not always a bad thing, and from an evolutionary standpoint it does make sense. If man was content to stay in the cave, complacency might set in, making him vulnerable to threat and danger that lurks within this apparent safe environment. By the very nature of our consciousness and our will to survive we are prone to seek improvement and find better ways. Now that we are out of the cave our brains still have the old circuitry, including an inclination for a negative bias that makes us want something else; something better.

If we take this one step further there is also another thing deep within us that wants something we cannot have or do. If we aren’t allowed to do somthing, or if it is slightly taboo, we get sucked in, like a moth to a light. Our ability to imagine kicks in here. By our very nature, if we see or imagine something, our minds cannot help but look at or think the opposite - “I wonder what would happen if I touched that electric fence,” or, “Why can’t my boyfriend dress more like Brad Pitt?” But, once you touch the fence and you get used to the shock, and the sight of your boyfriend dressed like Brad Pitt becomes the norm, you become bored with it. So, what then?

There is nothing wrong with the ‘grass is always greener’ syndrome - it helps us change and innovate newer and better things - but it’s worth being aware of its other side. There is great power knowing you have something that people want, and people who seduce someone or have seductive qualities know this. It’s a fine line, as seduction can be seen as synonymous with manipulation. They know that by holding back, being a bit reserved and creating some kind of mystery that they generate excitement and interest.

At an interpersonal level, it’s fair to say to some degree that absence generates interest and too much presence can be suffocating. However, be careful, because if you are a believer in ‘absence makes the heart grow fonder’ you should also be aware that ‘absence can make the heart go wander’. It’s a fine line, a balancing act. Perhaps, at the end of the day, rather than being covetous trying to find that perfect partner, career or even the perfect wave, it might be useful to invest energy in what we currently possess. This is not to say we should be complacent and avoid striving for improvement, but perhaps we can learn to compromise, look at the things we can control and be more realistic regarding what’s out of reach.

Jeremy Ireland is a local psychotherapist. Have you got a question? You can get in touch with Jeremy by calling 0400 420 042.

Words Jeremy Ireland Photo Anthony Goldring

The precious.

LOCAL COLOUR RANDWICK ART SOCIETY

RANDWICK ART SOCIETY

September 20 – October 16, 2024

Waverley Library Gallery

Monday–Friday, 9.30am–9pm Saturday, 9.30am–3pm Sunday,1–5pm

Exhibition opening

Thursday September 26, 6pm Free, bookings via eventbrite

Local Colour is a celebration of work by the Randwick Art Society. The exhibition includes landscapes, photography, figure work, still life, sculptures and crafts, all reflecting the local area and character of the Eastern Suburbs in diverse and colourful ways.

LOCAL COLOUR RANDWICK ART SOCIETY

The Randwick Art Society Inc. was founded in 2009 to promote Art and local awareness of Art in the community. It is a not-for-profit association of artists, photographers, and craftspeople who come together regularly to practice their art, encourage one another, and exhibit their work.

LOCAL COLOUR RANDWICK ART SOCIETY

September 20 – October 16, 2024

September 20 – October 16, 2024

Waverley Library Gallery

Waverley Library Gallery

Monday–Friday, 9.30am–9pm

Monday–Friday, 9.30am–9pm

Saturday, 9.30am–3pm

Saturday, 9.30am–3pm

Sunday,1–5pm

LOCAL COLOUR RANDWICK ART SOCIETY

Local Colour is a celebration of work by the Randwick Art Society. The exhibition includes landscapes, photography, figure work, still life, sculptures and crafts, all reflecting the local area and character of the Eastern Suburbs in diverse and colourful ways.

Sunday,1–5pm

Exhibition opening

Exhibition opening

Thursday September 26, 6pm

Free, bookings via eventbrite

Thursday September 26, 6pm Free, bookings via eventbrite

September 20 – October 16, 2024

Waverley Library Gallery

COLOUR ART SOCIETY

Monday–Friday, 9.30am–9pm

Saturday, 9.30am–3pm

Waverley Library Galleries 32-48 Denison St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 visualarts@waverley.nsw.gov.au

Sunday,1–5pm

Waverley Library Galleries 32-48 Denison St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 visualarts@waverley.nsw.gov.au

Colour is a celebration of work by the Randwick Art The exhibition includes landscapes, photography, work, still life, sculptures and crafts, all reflecting the area and character of the Eastern Suburbs in diverse colourful ways.

The Randwick Art Society Inc. was founded in 2009 to promote Art and local awareness of Art in the community. It is a not-for-profit association of artists, photographers, craftspeople who come together regularly to practice art, encourage one another, and exhibit their work.

Local Colour is a celebration of work by the Randwick Art Society. The exhibition includes landscapes, photography, figure work, still life, sculptures and crafts, all reflecting the local area and character of the Eastern Suburbs in diverse and colourful ways.

Exhibition opening

Thursday September 26, 6pm

Free, bookings via eventbrite

Randwick Art Society Inc. was founded in 2009 to promote Art and local awareness of Art in the community. It is a not-for-profit association of artists, photographers, craftspeople who come together regularly to practice art, encourage one another, and exhibit their work.

Local Colour is a celebration of work by the Randwick Art Society. The exhibition includes landscapes, photography, figure work, still life, sculptures and crafts, all reflecting the local area and character of the Eastern Suburbs in diverse and colourful ways.

The Randwick Art Society Inc. was founded in 2009 to promote Art and local awareness of Art in the community. It is a not-forprofit association of artists, photographers, and craftspeople who come together regularly to practise their art, encourage one another, and exhibit their work.

The Randwick Art Society Inc. was founded in 2009 to promote Art and local awareness of Art in the community. It is a not-for-profit association of artists, photographers, and craftspeople who come together regularly to practice their art, encourage one another, and exhibit their work.

Randwick Art Society Inc. was founded in 2009 to promote Art and local awareness of Art in the community. not-for-profit association of artists, photographers, and craftspeople who come together regularly to practice their encourage one another, and exhibit their work.

Waverley Library Galleries 32-48 Denison St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 visualarts@waverley.nsw.gov.au

Waverley Library Galleries 32-48 Denison St, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 visualarts@waverley.nsw.gov.au

The Unreliable Guide to... Entertainment

Words Nat Shepherd Photo Martha Scott

Thanks to an unfeasible amount of rain lately, The Unreliable Guide ended up watching a great deal of television. But only one show really caught my attention - Baby Reindeer, UK comedian Richard Gadd’s semi-autobiographical revelations of his traumatic past. The massive world impact of this shocking show got me thinking - what counts as entertainment these days? If you too have started wondering if its safe to switch on the TV, never fear, The Unreliable Guide is here to help you make sense of it all.

To Laugh, or Not to Laugh?

The dictionary defines entertainment as “the action of providing or being provided with amusement or enjoyment.” I have to say that on this definition, Baby Reindeer fails. Yes, there are occasional moments of dark humour, but overall it is a harrowing experience. But is that necessarily a bad thing?

The show, without wanting to give any spoilers, has raised a great deal of debate about the complexity of trauma and abuse. At the time of writing,

Baby Reindeer, expected by Gadd to be “a little cult artistic gem”, has had around 60 million views and is on track to be one of Netflix’s biggest successes. This unexpectedly popular mix of comedy and trauma reminds me of the success of Hannah Gadsby’s 2017 show Nannette, which redefined the face of stand-up comedy. Gadsby’s unexpected and brutally honest revelation of past trauma seems to have similarly shifted our idea of what a comedian could or should be, refining the role from giver of gags to confessional soul bearer. But is that new? Back in Shakespeare’s time, it was the role of the Fool to say the unsayable and hold a mirror up to society. I think that’s a good thing - when it’s handled well. And that’s the trouble. I think audiences need to be prepared for these emotional rollercoasters, not plunged into a bucket of icy revelations without warning.

The Readiness is All

I had nightmares after watching Baby Reindeer, and it’s taking weeks to get the story out of my

head. Maybe we need to be a bit more aware of how deeply these shows can affect us? If we’re casually turning on the TV and selecting a show just because its trending, then we could be in for a big surprise. Sure, Baby Reindeer has warnings that the content includes sex, violence, etc. but doesn’t everything these days?

The worldwide fall-out after the show, with internet sleuths trying to work out the identity of the real-life abusers, has been knocked as prurient nosiness. One commentator went as far as accusing Baby Reindeer of being “the show that turned its audience into stalkers”. Really? Yes, the abuse hurled at Gadd’s alleged real-life mentally unstable stalker is unforgiveable and Piers Morgan’s excruciating, exploitative interview with her is car-crash TV. Her pending court case against Netflix for defamation could provide a surreal second series of the show (Mummy Reindeer?!)

But I don’t think the audience is to blame for needing to know more. If a story is presented as ‘true’ and we invest our emotions in it, we need to know how it ends. That’s human nature. When (or if) people finally find out the true identity of Gadd’s sexual abuser, I suspect we will see a true crime, live-lynching follow up. Here’s a tip - don’t watch.

Finally, if platforms like Netflix or TalkTV don’t care about providing due care and diligence for the content of the shows they spew out into the world, I think it has to be up to us to check before we press play. To quote Thomas King’s, The Truth About Stories, “You have to be careful with the stories you tell, and you have to watch out for the stories that you are told.” See what’s next…

Enough is enough.

Addressing Violence Against Women

Words Dr Marjorie O’Neill - Member for Coogee

Photo Dominic Mestic

One of the basic principles that we all agree upon is that abuse and violence is never acceptable. As a society, we abhor violence towards each other, particularly the vulnerable. Abuse of children and the aged is especially abhorrent. Yet violence against women, especially domestic and family violence, is pervasive and affects countless individuals and families. It is imperative that we acknowledge the gravity and prevalence of this violence. Currently in Australia, one women is murdered every four days.

Coercive control is almost always an underpinning dynamic of family and domestic violence. It manifests in physical, emotional, psychological and economic abuse, leaving deep scars on victims and their children, extended families and the broader community. Domestic and family violence affects children’s physical and mental wellbeing and is the leading cause of children’s homelessness in Australia. Abuse of women is both a family and community concern, with implications for all of us.

Addressing all forms of violence against women requires a comprehensive strategy that includes education, support services, legal reforms and cultural change. To effectively address domestic violence, a multi-faceted approach is necessary; one that involves the entire community, including a critical role for men. Everyone - not just teachers, health workers and police - must stand up, speak out and actively participate in the fight against violence against women, and against domestic and family violence in all its forms, as their involvement is essential in challenging and changing the behaviours that perpetuate this violence.

As a community we must call out the inequality we see every day that provides a framework for sexual assault, sexual harassment and discrimina-

tion towards women. The subordination of women in our society is evident in pay inequality, glass ceilings, in professional sportswomen’s games being relegated to the back fields and, most recently, the rejection of pregnancy policies that would see sports NRLW players receive pay if they fall pregnant while under contract. We know that violence against women starts with the deep inequality that exists between men and women. While not all disrespect ends in violence, all violence starts with disrespect.

Legal reforms are necessary to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable. This includes stringent laws against domestic violence, comprehensive training for law enforcement officers and the establishment of specialised domestic violence courts. Legal systems must be equipped to handle the complexities of domestic violence cases sensitively and effectively, ensuring that justice is served and victims are protected. While legislation is important, nothing will change until we address the deep cultural and community issues that underlie abuse against women and domestic violence.

Education is a powerful tool in the fight against domestic violence, and having age appropriate consent education in our schools is important. Workplaces and community groups can also create environments where all forms of violence and sexual assault is openly discussed and victims feel supported. Men and women in leadership positions have a responsibility to foster these environments and to implement policies that protect and support victims. Societal attitudes and norms that perpetuate gender inequality and tolerate violence must be challenged and transformed.

The role of good men is indispensable in the quest for a better, fairer and safer society. Men must use their voices and influence to call out abusive behaviours and attitudes. Silence and complacency only serve to perpetuate the cycle of violence. Good men must act as role models and leaders in our communities, demonstrating respect and equality in their relationships and interactions, challenging derogatory language and jokes that belittle women or normalise violence. Good men can also mentor younger males, teaching them about healthy masculinity and the importance of respecting women.

For the victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence in our community, there is a lot of free local support. For counselling, legal advice and financial support, the best starting point is 1800 RESPECT, where you can be connected to a government-funded and certified agency to assist you. It is critical that we ensure these services are safe, accessible and funded. It is just as important that moving forward we ensure the factors causing violence against women are eradicated. We must do everything in our power to remove this truly dreadful aspect of our culture and society.

LATEST NEWS ON

RANDWICK HIGH SCHOOL

Randwick Boys High School and Randwick Girls High School are merging in 2025 to form a new inclusive, co-educational school here in the Eastern Suburbs. Here’s what you need to know.

New principal announced Ms Belinda Conway

Facilityupgrades

underway

The NSW Government is investing $42 million on school upgrades

New logo launched

Dr Marjorie O’Neill MP

Ten Reasons Why Snapper Are the Ultimate Fish

Words and Photo Lewis Kennedy-Hunt

With over 32,000 known species of fish on Earth, the art of fishing is an endeavour that can never truly be conquered or completed. In fact, catching even just a handful of these species can be a lifelong pursuit. With each different fish requiring their own specialised techniques, equipment and knowledge, a committed fisherman will never grow bored or disinterested.

I find it quite intriguing that someone who catches a hundred-kilo black marlin from a million-dollar boat off the continental shelf finds common ground with 70-year-old Barry who spends his retirement walking trout streams in search of fish the size of your foot. But therein lies its beauty. A universal allure, where the sport can be whatever someone makes it.

In my 20 years of fishing, I have been lucky enough to tangle with a handful of different fish, still only scratching the surface of what the world has to offer. But one fish that continues to challenge, excite and reward me is the humble snapper. Here’s ten reasons why they are the ultimate species to catch...

1. Snapper are great fighters

Anyone who has tangled with a decent snapper will know the violent hit that could almost rip the rod from your hands, the screaming run and the textbook head shakes that come with their capture.

2. Snapper are beautiful

With a silver-pink tinge pocked with iridescent turquoise spots, it is hard not to marvel at their beauty.

3. Snapper are delicious

There’s a good reason why you’ll find snapper in just about every seafood shop in Australia. Their clean white flesh is delectable and can be cooked in a huge variety of ways, my favourite being steamed with Asian vegetables and sauce.

4. Snapper can be caught on bait and lures

Snapper will happily smash a variety of lures including soft plastics, vibes, hardbodies, metals and even surface lures. The bait fishos can also tangle with them using a variety of different weighted or unweighted baits.

5. Snapper come in all shapes and sizes

From 10cm juveniles caught (and released) from inside estuaries, to 20kg monsters from the deep or - my favourite - the pan-sized snapper.

6. Snapper can be caught anywhere by anyone

Whether you are fishing offshore from a boat, off the rocks or from a jetty, they are accessible to all walks of fishos.

7. Snapper are abundant

Snapper have a healthy population, meaning they are both a viable sportfishing target as well as a sustainable seafood item. South Australia currently has a no target policy in place due to a history of overfishing, and the stocks are seen to be responding well to this.

8. Snapper can be challenging

Don’t underestimate the difficulty that comes with figuring these fish out. Skill, knowledge and planning are essential for success, and fishless outings not uncommon.

9. Snapper are here year-round

Snapper can be caught through all months of the year, provided you adapt your approach.

10. Snapper release well

Snapper have a high rate of survival after release, meaning they are the perfect sporting species for the catch and release angler. Like some other species, deep water captures can cause barotrauma, but release weights or other techniques will usually easily ensure their survival.

So, there you have it, just a few of the reasons why I find myself chasing these fish time and time again, even if there are thousands of other species out there. Right now, with the cold offshore mornings, clear skies and cool waters, winter is a perfect time to chase these fish, so get out there, have a crack and see what it’s all about!

The snapper whisperer with a large pan-sized specimen.

July 2024

The Beast

Subject Riding the Rainbow Location Coogee Photographer Parveen Sidhu

Subject Banksia Burglar Location Centennial Park Photographer Francisco Martins @bettadesignphoto

Subject Stairway to Heaven Location Bondi Photographer Daniela Marchetta

Subject Morning Pastels Location Bronte Photographer Cameron Munro

Subject Fern Gully Location Centennial Park Photographer Gareth Pask

Subject Runny Nose Location Waverley Photographer Pierre Carrion

Subject Myna's Union Location Bondi Junction Photographer Graeme Bogan

Subject Cube Kids Location Maroubra Photographer Lyn Singer

Subject Crystal Clear Location Coogee Photographer Claudia Lovett

Subject Moon Rider Location Bronte Photographer Steve Peach

Mediterranean-Inspired Flathead

Flathead is a delicious, tender Australian fish, perfectly enjoyed grilled with a squeeze of lemon. And this abundant demersal is equally up to the task of standing out amongst strong mediterranean flavours.

The roast capsicum and tomato sauce is the ultimate base for the fish, surrounded by texture and spice in the form of roasted chickpeas, hot Spanish chorizo, fresh coriander and a simple lemony yoghurt sauce on the side to round it out.

Treat the flathead carefully and grill lightly and you will be rewarded with delicate fish and freshness - a plate worthy of actually being in the Mediterranean.

Ingredients (serves 2)

4 flathead fillets, boned and skin removed

1½ hot Spanish chorizo, casing removed, diced

½ can chickpeas, rinsed and drained

2 capsicums, core and seeds removed, halved

200gms cherry tomatoes

2 tbs plain flour

¾ cup extra virgin olive oil

Sea salt

Cracked black pepper

¼ cup fresh coriander leaves, to serve

½ lemon, cut into wedges, to serve

Yoghurt sauce

3 tbs Greek yoghurt

Juice of ¼ lemon

½ tsp ground cumin

2 tsp fresh coriander, finely chopped

½ tsp honey

Sea salt

Cracked black pepper

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 120℃ fan forced.

2. To make the yoghurt sauce, combine ingredients and mix well. Keep refrigerated until serving.

3. For the roast capsicum and tomato sauce, add the capsicum and tomatoes to a lined baking tray and drizzle with a tablespoon of the olive oil. Slow roast for 1½ hours, remove from the oven and when cooled, blend to form a thick puree. Set aside.

4. While the capsicum and tomatoes are roasting, place the chickpeas on a separate lined baking tray, drizzle with a little olive oil and roast for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and set aside.

5. In a frypan set to medium heat, add the chorizo (no oil required), cook for 3-4 minutes, tossing occasionally, then remove from the heat and set aside.

6. Lightly dust the flathead in plain flour, then in a frypan set to medium heat, add the remaining olive oil. When hot, carefully cook the fish for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from the pan and drain on paper towel.

7. Remove the yoghurt lemon sauce from the fridge ready to serve.

8. On a serving plate, place the capsicum and tomato sauce to cover the whole base. Lay the pieces of fish on top, generously spoon over the chorizo and chickpeas and a few fresh coriander leaves.

9. Add the sauce on the side or drizzle over the fish. Serve with the wedges of lemon.

Dana Sims is a Sydneybased food and prop stylist who has grown up in the Eastern Suburbs and loves to create delicious food. She is inspired by the fresh produce we have access to in Sydney. For ideas, recipes and styling inspiration, check out her Instagram, @stone_and_twine.

HYAMS BEACH HEAVEN

The Boathouses at Hyams Beach offer the perfect place to escape from busy Sydney and recharge your batteries. Just an easy three-hour drive from the Eastern Suburbs, The Boathouses offer separate two-bedroom properties, available to be booked individually or as one. For more information or to book, please call 02 4411 7000 or email bookings@holidayscollection.com.au

MAILBOX DELIVERERS WANTED

The Beast magazine's dedicated delivery team is looking for a couple of reliable local residents to help with our monthly mailbox drop. You'll need to be available for four or five days around the 18th to the 23rd of each month and have a reasonable level of fitness. You'll also need a half decent vehicle. Locals over 45 years of age are preferred for this work, as the last 20 years has shown us that this is the only demographic capable of getting a job done properly from start to finish.

If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, please email james@thebeast.com.au.

The Beast Supercross

ACROSS

1. 45th President of the USA (6,5)

7. Material Girl (7)

8. Prune before it is dried (4)

9. Fasten (3)

10. Large, flat sea creature in a shell (6)

11. Greek god of love (4)

13. Working student or trainee (6)

14. Bearded farm animal (4)

16. Not good (3)

18. Criminal (5)

20. Keyboard instrument (5)

21. Luminous spheroid (4)

22. Near perfect imaginary community (6)

DOWN

1. Dreadlocked Roosters winger

Trivial Trivia

(3,5)

2. A person who gets their gear off wherever possible (6)

3. Light in a transparent protective case (7)

4. Flat, shallow container with a raised rim (4)

5. Innumerable but many (7)

6. Collided violently (7)

12. Employed to run errands and carry luggage at hotels (7)

13. Cousin ... (2)

15. One-seeded fruit, usually pickled (5)

17. Island in Southwest Scotland (5)

18. Receptacle in a church (4)

19. US government air and space agency (4)

1. How many time zones are there in China?

2. A group of unicorns is called a herd, a shimmer or a rainbow?

3. What vegetable was originally purple?

4. What is a baby rabbit called?

5. At which Olympics did women first compete in all sports on the program?

6. Which Gordon Ramsay cooking show is set in a neighborhood of New York City?

7. What vegetable do Germans turn into sauerkraut and Koreans turn into kimchi?

8. What is the world’s southernmost national capital city?

9. The Eurostar arrives and departs from which London train station?

10. American rapper and singer Lizzo plays which instrument?

Curtain Raiser to a Magic Maroubra Day.

Words Lisa Anderson Photo Glenn Busuttil

The Emu War

Genre Action, Comedy

Reviewer Linda Heller-Salvador

If you’re a fan of deliberately so-bad-it’s-good, B-grade movies in the vein of The Giant Spider Invasion, Birdemic or VelociPastor, then look no further than the outrageously absurd Australian action comedy titled The Emu War.

The Great Australian Emu War of 1932 (a military operation to address the issue of emus damaging large amounts of crops in Western Australia) is one of Australia’s most implausible historical events that has seen it generate a video game, a theatrical musical, online memes, a board game, a short film, used as a band name, this feature film and a yet to be released second feature film staring John Cleese.

Based very loosely on this period, and being oh-so politically incorrect in a multitude of ways, The Emu War has its tongue well and truly planted in its cheek when depicting the bizarre conflict between birds and humans that ends with the emus outmanoeuvring the motley crew of soldiers with apparent military precision and a humiliating and laughable defeat.

It’s an outlandish satire of a film with outrageously bad CGI, laughable dialogue and intentionally campy acting that doesn’t take itself seriously - and neither should you!

CHILDISH GAMBINO Atavista

Label Wolf+Rothstein/Liberator

Reviewer @aldothewriter

Rating

I still think Donald Glover (AKA Childish Gambino) did his best work making Chevy Chase look like a vaguely decent human being on the TV series Community, but there is no denying he’s a musical savant as well. The cool crowd has been all over him like devil’s dandruff on a disabled dunny’s seat for years, but dorks like me are finally catching up. It is impressive that in the modern era of disposable singles and content over quality Glover stubbornly sticks to releasing proper albums, and Altavista - a kaleidoscope of sounds, genres, and influences - is a near perfect one at that.

CROWDED HOUSE

Gravity Stairs

Label BMG

Reviewer @aldothewriter

Rating

It’s strange to think of Crowded House as being influenced by anybody, but it appears Neil Finn and co. are finally going through their Bowie/Beatles era. We’ve all been there. Spoons don’t look like spoons anymore and you begin to wonder what an octopus might make of outer space. Finn has recruited his sons into the band, and this could be why the group has a newfound vigour. They don’t sound like an old man’s band anymore. They’re all wide-eyed and bushy-tailed, and I’d definitely be checking those young boys’ pupils if I were their mother.

MAYA HAWKE

Chaos Angel

Label Mom + Pop Music

Reviewer @aldothewriter

Rating

While I gave up on Stranger Things after the first season, when I saw Maya Hawke touted as ‘the Stranger Things actress’, I must admit I was disappointed to discover she’s not the weird little violent one named after a number. It was a pleasant surprise to learn she is an accomplished folk artist though. This is not a 30 Odd Foot of Grunts situation; Hawke feasibly could have made it without the foot in the door - a privilege she is clearly aware of, judging by the highlight track ‘Missing Out’. There are a few eyeroll inducing lyrical moments, but overall she slaps more than she slips.

Star Signs

Visions Beardy from Hell

Virgo Aug 23-Sep 23

Don’t risk leaving your group chats to see if anyone notices your absence, because they won’t, and you won’t be allowed back in.

Libra Sep 24-Oct 23

You need to know a lot, in order to know what little you actually know, which is why you think you know so much.

Scorpio Oct 24-Nov 22

You’re spending too much time and energy looking after others. Could it be time to shift the focus back onto your own well-being?

Sagittarius Nov 23-Dec 21

If you don’t have rich parents and aren’t in the top 500 salary earners in Australia, sorry, but you can’t live here anymore.

Capricorn Dec 22-Jan 20

Focus on what people do, rather than what they say. At the end of the day, we are what we do, so don’t be fooled by the spin.

Aquarius Jan 21-Feb 19

You weren’t gifted much to work with when you were born, but at least you have the ability of some form of expression.

Pisces Feb 20-Mar 20

You are basically a more entitled version of your parents that’s enjoyed a way more privileged upbringing. Let that sink in.

Aries Mar 21-Apr 20

A person is not done when they’re defeated, they’re only done when they quit, so quit quickly and move on with your life.

Taurus Apr 21-May 21

Why do you care so much about the business you work for? It doesn’t care about you. Quiet quitting should be an option.

Gemini May 22-Jun 21

You should only do nice things for others if you’re going to receive some credit in return, otherwise what’s the point?

Trivial Trivia Solutions

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