Faith in mining?
Look at us now!
COMMENT – page 9 THE REVIEW – pages 11-14
NUMBER one hundred and NINE NOVEMBER ’12 CIRCULATION 22,000 aLEXANDRIA BEACONSFIELD CHIPPENDALE DARLINGTON ERSKINEVILLE EVELEIGH GLEBE KINGS CROSS NEWTOWN PADDINGTON REDFERN SURRY HILLS WATERLOO WOOLLOOMOOLOO ZETLAND Community demands better planning
Colin Sharp
REDFERN: On Tuesday October 23 a community meeting was held at the Redfern Town Hall on the state government’s proposed changes to the planning laws. The meeting was organised by the Better Planning Network (BPN), an affiliation of more than 70 community and environmental groups concerned about the proposals. Around 150 people attended the meeting and were addressed by local councillors and representatives of the BPN.
All speakers were critical of the Green Paper, released as a “discussion” paper on the new reforms on July 14. In particular, it was felt the Green Paper constituted a “Developers’ Charter” and sought to limit community involvement in the planning process to the “strategic” stage only, in order to speed up the approval process. Fouad Deiri (left) and Archbishop Paul Saliba with Barry O’Farrell to open Deicota Tower Photo: Andrew Collis Concerns were also expressed about there not being enough time for community input between the Green Paper and the White Paper. The candidates for the upcoming Club Redfern a premier attraction by-election for the state seat of Sydney had also been invited to speak at the Andrew Collis Community representatives expressed the Aboriginal Housing Company, Roy stage and dance floor, and outdoor meeting and in particular to address pride and excitement at the prospect Wakelin-King, CEO of the Sydney Sydney terraces. “I found the club very inviting the question: “What is your view of the REDFERN: The much-anticipated of a stylish and well-resourced new Metropolitan Development Authority, and modern,” said one member. “This Planning Green Paper, and, if elected, new Returned Servicemen’s League meeting place. and Fouad Deiri, Director of DeiCorp will give Souths on Chalmers a run how will you work to ensure planning (RSL) Club has opened at 157 Redfern Premier Barry O’Farrell opened the Construction. for its money. It’ll be great to have at powers are returned to the community?” Street (opposite Redfern Station). The official proceedings. He acknowledged His Eminence Metropolitan least two places to go. Let’s see who Three of the candidates accepted the establishment will be known simply the traditional owners of the land and the Archbishop Paul Saliba (Antiochian will put on the best entertainment and invitation to speak: Glenn Wall, Alex as Club Redfern, and occupy the good work of all involved on the project. Orthodox Church) spoke eloquently of value for money.” Club Redfern will Greenwich and Shayne Mallard. second floor of the Deicota Tower, a “Redfern is looking fantastic,” he said. Mr Deiri’s commitment to community continue to be a place of respect and Glenn Wall, an Independent, expressed 19-storey development which includes “I’m not often here in the daytime, but and offered a blessing on the building and honour for returned servicemen and his views that the Green Paper is pro- office space and retail as well as I’m very pleased to see so many signs of all who will live, work and gather there. women. The club was officially opened development and that the system it 84 apartments with five levels of innovation and vitality.” Members were invited to an exclusive on Thursday November 1. S proposes will be corrupt, so much so underground parking. Mary Lynne Pidcock of the Souths inspection of Club Redfern on Saturday that even the Independent Commission Business Chamber welcomed special October 27. The 1,500m2 space New members are very welcome. Against Corruption (ICAC) has concerns Thursday October 25 saw the official guests including Premier O’Farrell, comprises a bistro, two bars, a TAB Contact General Manager about it. He urged people not to vote opening of the DeiCorp development. Mick Mundine and Mark Spinks of room, two gaming rooms, functions, Anthony Macalpine on 02 9699 9928. Liberal and to let the Continued on page 2
NEWTOWN NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE INC. PRESENTS 2 News November 2012
PUBLISHER South Sydney Uniting Church Erko development key elements: Raglan Street, Waterloo Phone/fax 02 9319 1373 The views expressed in this newspaper are Ashmore ``302 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedrooms those of the author and the article and are not necessarily the views of the Uniting Church. ``16 terrace houses on the northern boundary NEWS Precinct update ``4 apartment buildings up to 8 storeys in height [email protected] Phone Lyn 0400 008 338 ``1 retail shop ADVERTISING [email protected] Erko project ``Pedestrian and cycleways linking to Erskineville village Phone/fax 02 9319 1373 and railway station MAILING ADDRESS: PO Box 3288 approved ``1 central community park and 1 pocket park Redfern NSW 2016
LETTERS Please send letters and emails to: The South Sydney Herald. Kate Texilake residents is of central importance to Email: [email protected] the community. Supply sender name and suburb. ERSKINEVILLE: The Central Sydney FOE was allocated three minutes Size: 150 words or less. We may edit for legal or other reasons. Planning Committee has granted to present at the Committee approval to Leighton Properties’ meeting, held on October 11. development application (DA) for The presentation raised FOE’s FOUNDING EDITOR its Erko residential project, the first concern that the DA contains Trevor Davies (25/5/1956—14/6/2011) development in the Ashmore Precinct. major variations from the version This go-ahead gives concept approval on which submissions have most for the entire site and for the design recently been made. It was noted and construction of stage 1 works. that the DA also contains many conditions that are to be met after Stage 1 works include construction the approval process and without of two 8-storey buildings, one building residents’ advice or consultation. that is part 3-storey and part 8-storey, Among these conditions is a Managing Editor FEATURES EDITOR car parking for 213 vehicles and 260 Transport Management Accessibility Andrew Collis Dorothy McRae-McMahon bicycle spaces, as well as associated Plan, in which FOE considers infrastructure, landscaping and public residents have a key stakeholding. domain works. FOE also voiced dissatisfaction The developers state that the 1.61- at seeing residents’ calls for a social ha site will deliver a high degree of impact assessment and for written design and public domain amenity to commitments from government both existing and new residents, but on transport and infrastructure NEWS EDITOR Assistant EDITOR not everyone is convinced. development ignored. Lyn Turnbull Esther Butcher Community group Friends of Committee member and former Erskineville (FOE), whose members Planning Minister Craig Knowles have run a sustained campaign to expressed concern residents had have the local community’s concerns not been adequately informed of heard, claims a lack of consultation the changes to the DA. He then and failure by the City of Sydney to moved a motion that Council address the issues it has raised. conduct a communication program Artist impression of the Erko development Image: Supplied FOE reiterates it is not opposed with all Erskineville residents ASSISTANT EDITOR Advertising Kate Williamson Louisa Dyce to development happening, but is to explain the changes, and in concerned to see that development particular to advise what is planned is sustainable and accompanied in the areas of public transport DISTRIBUTION by appropriate infrastructure. With infrastructure and childcare Pat Clarke Greenwich not so mean time [email protected] Erskineville’s public transport, water facilities. Geoff Turnbull Glen Wall (2.2 per cent) and Fred Nile networks and childcare already The Lord Mayor Clover Moore DESIGNER Group Robyn Pebbles (1.9 per cent). straining under current demand, agreed to Mr Knowles’ motion Robert Young Alex Greenwich succeeded Clover Labor, which in 2011 got 11.3 per cent clear and adequate planning to before the Committee then voted PRINTER Moore as the member for the NSW seat of the first round vote, did not contest the support additional demand from new unanimously to approve the DA. S Spotpress PTY LTD of Sydney in a by-election on October by-election, making some comparisons 24-26 Lilian Fowler Place 27. Ms Moore was forced to resign difficult. Comparing 2012 with 2011 after Marrickville, NSW 2204 www.spotpress.com after she was re-elected Lord Mayor Labor was extinguished, Alex Greenwich of Sydney, when new legislation forced was up 3,422 votes over Ms Moore, Next Month her to choose between her two roles. the Greens were up 337 votes and the REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS Alex Greenwich ran in an unwinnable Liberals were down 5,272 votes, all off the Next month’s SSH will feature a follow-up to the article “We gratefully acknowledge the many position on Ms Moore’s council ticket volunteer contributors and distributors lower turnout. ‘Addison Road Centre under threat’ which appeared in who make this publication possible.” and was anointed by Ms Moore for the Alex Greenwich was elected after the October issue of the SSH. Libby Hogan will report Adra Anthoney Barrie McMahon by-election. preferences ahead of the Liberals with Sandra Beeston Justine McNamara 63.7 per cent of the votes up from Clover on claims and counter-claims of bullying and corrupt Jack Butler Reece Meredith Formal votes were down by almost 20 Moore’s 53.1 per cent in 2012. It will be behaviour. Statements for the record may be emailed Joe Castley Christine Morrow per cent between the state election and the debated how much of the 10.6 per cent Liesa Clague Lucy Munro to [email protected]/. Anna Clark Olivia Nigro by-election. Despite this, Alex Greenwich swing against the Liberals is the electorate Lindsay Cohen Michael Page polled 778 more first round votes than Ms sending a message to the Government Douglas Dingwall Jesse Peters Moore had in 2011 with 47.3 per cent of the about Ms Moore’s ousting. What is clear Alex Fleming William Rivera Devin Gibson Michael Shreenan formal votes cast. He led the Liberals Shane is that there has been a dream transition Mathew Gilliland Gai Smith Mallard (30.9 per cent), the Greens Chris between Independent candidates in the seat Jemima Hall Andrea Srisurapon S Misa Han Harris (17.7 per cent) ahead of Independent of Sydney. Libby Hogan Kate Texilake JOSEPH MEDCALF FUNERALS Jess Hunt Michael Texilake Lyndal Irons Geoff Turnbull Providing personal care for the local community Julia Jacklin Charles Turnbull Perry Johnstone Marg Vazey Kelly Lane Angelique Watkins Community demands better planning Rebecca LeMay Peter Whitehead • Family owned & operated norrie mAy-welby Kate Williamson Continued from page 1 local Liberal candidate Paper but that the Planning Minster, Julie McCrossin Brendan Wong know. He recognised that he does not Brad Hazzard, had assured him that • 100% Australian & fully independent have a realistic chance of winning the the community will have a say in the seat of Sydney but he pledged to continue development process under the proposed • We cover all Sydney suburbs DISTRIBUTORS to fight for the community. new system. He said that he hears the • Pre-paid & pre-arrange funeral plans Georgina Abrahams Melissa McMahon Alex Greenwich, also an Independent community concerns, however, and that John Berry Mark McPherson • Joseph Medcalf has been serving Sydney since 1880 Eleanor Bousted Margaret Neale but with the endorsement of departed MP therefore if people wanted an effective Gabby Briene Miriam Pepper Clover Moore, said that he was inspired voice in parliament they should vote for • We offer personal attention 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Johanna Campbell Pepsee by the people of Sydney present at the him. He criticised the existing planning Sam Choy David Polkingham meeting. He shared the community’s legislation and reminded the audience Alice Crawford Jim Rathmell Don Crowley Heather Robinson concerns about the Green Paper. While that the government had been elected JOSEPH MEDCALF FUNERALS Sue Dahl Gaylene Smith recognising that the planning laws to do something about it. Di Everingham Serving Sydney since 1880 Ross Smith Melissa Gibson needed to be improved, he opposes The meeting concluded with Corinne Gai Smith Perry Johnstone planning decisions made by unelected Fisher, of the BPN, urging people to Call 02 9698 2644 available 24 hours Anne Jordan Adrian Spry Tony Steele bodies behind closed doors. He supports contact the Premier’s office to request Anthony Kable the need for locally elected councillors that the community be given six months Office & Chapel 172 Redfern Street, Redfern Susan Kable Rosemary Tyler Jennifer Laffan Brian Vazey and community groups to be involved in which to comment on the White Paper Off-street parking available Margaret Vazey John Lanzky in planning. and the draft legislation. S Peter Lonergan Rosie Wagstaff Shayne Mallard, the Liberal Party www.josephmedcalf.com.au norrie mAy-welby Naomi Ward Julie McCrossin Alex Warner candidate, began by saying he was A tool to facilitate this can be found at Barrie McMahon Anthony Wyld not at the meeting to defend the Green http://betterplanningnetwork.good.do November 2012 News 3
The youth of today Trucks & diggers for children’s centre
Kate Texilake structures is then expected to run into March, with excavation to Boundary Lane Children’s follow and continue into July. Centre, which sits within the Plans for the new childcare University of Sydney’s Abercrombie facility are currently under Precinct development site, is set for development in consultation with relocation to a new home on Burren centre staff. However, they are and Watkin streets in Newtown, still some way off submission for but not before works commence approval by relevant authorities. At on the site. this stage, the University’s target is to have the new centre ready Preliminary works for the to open in January 2014. In the development are now underway, interim, University representatives Enjoying the quiet before construction Photo: Courtesy Brigitte Mitchell with fibre-optic cabling being laid responsible for the project have along Abercrombie Street as part of assured centre staff and parents that The University has expressed its Many parents and carers had Mr Robinson explained. “Delaying a University telecommunications they will continue their efforts to mindfulness of these concerns and been hopeful that relocation of the project while a new childcare upgrade and the relocation find an appropriate building for a advised parents and staff it has the centre, whether temporary or centre is built is not feasible.” of water and sewer services temporary relocation – a complex consulted with experts to devise permanent, would be completed As part of the Abercrombie Precinct also beginning this month. and regrettably unlikely undertaking, appropriate noise, air quality and before works commenced on the site project, the site currently occupied At a recent information night, given the many regulations vibration mitigation strategies. to avoid inconvenience, disruption by Boundary Lane Children’s Centre University representatives advised governing childcare premises and “We are now fast-tracking the and concern arising from the works, will be redeveloped to provide staff and parents from the centre the limited area in which the centre design and construction of the new carefully planned as they may student housing. S that demolition of other buildings can reasonably be relocated. childcare centre,” said Greg Robinson, be to minimise these impacts. on the site is scheduled to occur Parents and carers have Director, Campus Infrastructure “The Abercrombie Precinct Youth of today, a regular article over the centre’s holiday shutdown communicated their concerns to and Services. “In the meantime, redevelopment is a critical component on local youth and related issues, period. Installation of a new the University about ensuring the we have put in place significant of the University of Sydney’s plans is kindly sponsored by Appetite Cafe underground sewer service that centre’s continuous operation on measures to reduce the impact to upgrade our facilities and we Appetite Cafe will run directly beneath the the one hand, and on the other, of our development and ensure have a pressing need to complete APPETITE cafe : redfern 82 Regent St, Redfern ood premises is also planned for this ensuring the health and safety of the a safe environment for staff and the project to enable enrolments for + eople Tel 9699 4069 time. Clearing of the demolished children while work is underway. children at the existing centre.” the start of the 2015 academic year,”
Abercrombie Precinct moves a step closer. Over the past several months, the University’s plan for the Sunflower Abercrombie Precinct in Darlington has undergone detailed assessment by the NSW Department of Planning and Health Infrastructure and was recently recommended for approval, subject to various conditions of consent.
This recommendation will now be considered independently by the NSW Planning Services Assessment Commission and we expect a final determination later this month. Specialised psychological treatment The University has worked hard over the past 12 months to totally redesign the facility and integrated services. to create an internationally acclaimed business school to attract the very best students, teachers and researchers and to also ensure the project achieves a better outcome for Innovative Mental Health Specialists. our neighbours.
The University is committed to providing regular updates about the progress of the We are new & we can help! Abercrombie Precinct project. If you have any questions please call the University’s community information line 1800 252 040 from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm For people with a psychosis or other
For regular updates on the project, please visit our website at www.sydney.edu.au/ mental illness, carers and families. abercrombie_precinct/ or email: [email protected]. Bulk billing available • GPs can refer you Michael Spence Vice-Chancellor Sydney City and Inner West 9715 5133 Northern Sydney and Beaches 9977 6191 Community contact details www.sunflowerhealthservices.org.au Security and after hours: 1800 063 487 (free call) 24hrs a day, 7 days a week An initiative of SFNSW: www.sfnsw.org.au Enquiries: 9114 0523 Email: [email protected] 4 News November 2012 Uniting north and south
Andrew Collis
WATERLOO: The long weekend in October saw an opportunity for the South Sydney Uniting Church to welcome 21 visitors from Milingimbi, an island community just off the coast of Arnhem Land in the far north of Australia.
Following a youth conference at the Merroo Christian Centre in Kurrajong, the visitors were in need of accommodation before boarding a flight home via Darwin. The newly refurbished hall at South Sydney Uniting (including solar hot water and a shower) proved an adequate venue. “Well, we’ve got a shower now, and the floors are clean,” parishioner John Lanzky said. “This is something we can do.” Mr Lanzky, who led popular shopping expeditions in Waterloo, was one of many church members who offered hospitality. Heather Robinson played piano and pipe organ with the children. Adrian Spry made art materials available. Pearl Wymarra, Development and Promotions Officer with the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC), brought freshly cooked damper and stew all the way from Penrith. The weekend was eventful. On Saturday afternoon the church’s Orchard Gallery hosted the opening of a show by painter Ann Mara: The Natural Wonders of Lake Burrendong. Sunday worship commemorated saints Francis and Clare of Assisi with many beloved pets in attendance, including dogs, cats, frogs and an axolotl. A collection was taken in support of WIRES (Wildlife Information Rescue Mark and Serita in the South Sydney Uniting Church hall Photo: Jemima Hall & Education Service). Mark and Serita of Milingimbi (pictured) led has seen Yolngu ceremonial activity at the airport, observing delight also are embedded rich natural, historical ordained minister was in Galiwin’ku a dance they had learnt from their since its formation at the time of sea in the smiling faces of staff and fellow and ritual knowledge. (Elcho Island) where the first meeting of Fijian friends, and Elder of the group, level stabilisation some 5,000 years ago. travellers. A trilingual dictionary – in English, the UAICC was held in 1983. He enjoyed Gwen Warmbirrirr, co-led the prayers The traditional owners of Milingimbi The experience calls to mind a Yan-nhangu, and the regional meeting with the group from Milingimbi of intercession. and the surrounding seas and islands project headed by Senior Australian Indigenous Yolngu language, Dhuwal and talking about people and the church Milingimbi is the largest island are of the Yan-nhangu-speaking Yolngu of the Year, Laurie Baymarrwangga, a (of some 7,000 speakers) – is being in north-east Arnhem Land. of the Crocodile Islands group. It is people. English is a second, third or 96 year-old Indigenous woman from compiled. The resource will be given Thanks to local businesses who approximately 500 kilometres east fourth language for most Aboriginal the Crocodile Islands. Over the last free to children of the islands. For more offered support and donations, including of Darwin. The ex-mission settlement residents of Milingimbi. 20 years, in association with the Yan- information contact Dr Bentley James the Wild Cockatoo Bakery in Botany started in 1922 by the Rev. James Pearl Wymarra spoke highly of the nhangu Dictionary Team, Laurie has at [email protected] or visit Road and Kozma’s Convenience Store Watson takes its name from the women elders who accompanied the been working to save the Yan-nhangu www.crocodileislandsrangers.com/. in George Street, Redfern. Special Walamangu Clan well around which children to Sydney. She was delighted language. In 1993 there were only 300 David Russell is a minister in thanks to friends at Cana Communities it is situated. The island is more than and proud to hear the children words recorded, but the team has now association at the South Sydney Uniting who provided mattresses and laundry a kilometre from the mainland and speaking loudly in their native tongue saved more than 3,500 words in which Church. His first placement as an services. S
Human rights award nomination Factory wins for Indigenous women business award
Joe Castley remember or pass on cultural traditions. born in 2002 and 2003. This allowed the Lyn Turnbull unnecessary and divisive competitive Led by June Oscar, CEO of first prevalence survey of Foetal Alcohol tendering processes, and duplicative The Aboriginal Justice Support Marninwarntikura Women’s Resource Spectrum Disorders anywhere in Australia Waterloo’s Factory Community accountability regulations to our Group of Action for World Development, Centre, and Maureen Carter, CEO of the and led to management plans being set Centre was declared Community funders and charity regulators. So it which meets locally in Newtown, has Nindilingarri Cultural Health Services up for every affected child. The work has and Social Services category is important that our sector is viewed been lobbying for justice for Australia’s (two astonishingly impressive people) won worldwide admiration at the highest winner of the 2012 Sydney Business and recognised in the same way as Indigenous peoples for over 30 years. the women mobilised, fighting vested level, and is ongoing. Awards early last month. the commercial sector and we thank It recently nominated two inspiring interests and successfully lobbying the This year, the Australian Human Rights the Sydney Business Awards, City Aboriginal women’s organisations for WA Licensing Board to stem the flow of Commission will be celebrating 25 years The 19 nominees in the Community of Sydney and their sponsors for an award conferred by the Australian full-strength alcohol in the Valley. The of amazing contributions by Australians to and Social Services category were recognising our sector’s contribution.” Human Rights Commission. effects on public order and public health the protection and promotion of human judged using the same questionnaire The Sydney Business Awards website were dramatic. In a short time they turned rights. as businesses in other categories, describes The Factory as “a small In 2007, the women of Fitzroy Crossing the Valley from a state of crisis to a state Nominees for the Awards will compete using criteria including: (1) Financial and effective NGO, which is a locally in Western Australia’s Kimberleys, faced of control. in 10 categories including the Human results; (2) Strategic planning; (3) managed community development with the effects of alcohol on surrounding They then made Foetal Alcohol Rights Medal and the Young People’s Industry innovation; (4) Community organisation [which] strongly identifies communities, decided to act. There were Disorders their priority. They established Medal. The remaining categories include participation and leadership; (5) with the Redfern-Waterloo ‘Social- high rates of violence and alcohol-related partnerships with the Sydney University Law, Business, Community (Individual), Marketing and Communications; Housing’ community. As a leading deaths, a suicide rate that in a city the size Medical School and the George Institute Community (Organisation), Literature (6) Evidence of environmental hub, they have provided a wide range of Perth would have seen 150 suicides a of Global Health. The Sydney group, (Non-Fiction), Print and Online Media, sustainability planning. of individual and group-based support month. As well, there were the effects led by Professor Elizabeth Elliott AM Television and Radio Awards. S Executive Officer Michael Shreenan services for people of all ages, for of alcohol in utero: children born with and Associate Professor Jane Latimer, reflected: “We are faced with the over 35 years.” S irreversible damage to their central responded wholeheartedly, and with The winners will be presented with their same red tape and regulations as nervous systems and not only facing Aboriginal workers carrying out culturally awards at a luncheon ceremony taking the commercial sector. In addition, Visit thefactorycommunitycentre. terrible lifelong handicaps themselves, sensitive surveys, contacted 95 per cent place on Monday December 10 at the Hilton we wrestle with the burdens caused blogspot.com.au for details but, in an oral culture, unable either to of the women whose children had been Sydney, located at 488 George Street. by insecure funding, the often of groups and activities. November 2012 News 5 New AES Tanya Plibersek office a Federal Member for Sydney beacon for success Skills for All Australians Lyn Turnbull Victor Dominello with AES staff in Waterloo Photo: Lyn Turnbull 2012 Volunteer Awards Major reform of the VET (vocational WATERLOO: The Aboriginal South Western Sydney office in unwavering focus on the AES’s purpose Employment Strategy Ltd (AES) has Campbelltown and the shiny new – changing of mindset for Aboriginal Lasteducation year, the Federal and training) Government system established is well relocated its Central Sydney office Central Sydney office on the corner of people to think about career paths, overdue.Tanya Plibersek from Glebe to Waterloo. The new Elizabeth and Phillip streets in Waterloo. not just jobs but real careers. He spoke the MembersFederal of Parliament Member National for VolunteerSydney office was opened yb the Minister for The Waterloo office will service the of the office becoming a “beacon for AwardsThe jobsto recognise of the futuresome ofwill our be most high skilled. Aboriginal Affairs, Victor Dominello, northern and inner city. success in Waterloo” and also welcomed on October 19. The AES runs personalised structured the move to Waterloo, as it will be more outstandingAustralians volunteers. need to have access to training now workplace-training programs in accessible for the Aboriginal community to get the qualifications they need to fill the jobs The AES was started in Moree at La Perouse. conjunction with its corporate partners of tomorrow. in 1997 and grew out of one of the – which include Australia Post, Telstra, Before everyone went outside to enjoy It was an opportunity to acknowledge the recommendations of the 1991 Royal major banks, hotel and entertainment a barbecue lunch, Emily Lyons, who is Skills for All Australians Commission into Black Deaths in chains, retailers, and mining and now a full-time trainee teller with the workWe of willpeople need like Margaretmore skilled Jones healthwho has and Custody to establish Aboriginal transport companies. Commonwealth Bank, thanked the AES Majorcommunity reform workers, of theengineers, VET IT(vocational specialists employment promotion committees Manager of the Central Sydney for the role it has played in mentoring her volunteered with the Redfern Legal Centre nationwide. After expanding its office, Rodney Williams, spoke of the since she was in Year 10 at school and educationand construction and workers.training) system is well operations to a number of other NSW new opportunities to partner with local Stephen her Career Support Officer who sinceoverdue. it opened in 1977. country centres in the early 2000s, it organisations that will come with the helped with interview preparation and Skills Australia estimates that in the five years opened its first Sydney office in Glebe move to its new strategic location on assistance as she worked out her career S Theto 2015, jobs Australiaof the futurewill need will anbe additional high skilled. 2.1 seven years ago and now has 15 offices the corner of Elizabeth Street opposite options after completing her HSC. It also demonstrated the diversity of Sydney’s across Australia. Redfern Oval and the PCYC, close to the Australiansmillion people need into havethe workforceaccess to training with VETnow There are four offices in Sydney, the Waterloo and Redfern public housing. Aboriginal Employment Strategy Ltd, volunteers, like UTS student Loki Ball who is national support office in Surry Hills, AES CEO Danny Lester attributed 631-633 Elizabeth St Waterloo, toqualifications. get the qualifications they need to fill the jobs Western Sydney office in Blacktown, the success of the AES to the team’s Ph 8571 0900, www.aes.org.au/. theof founding tomorrow. director of an organisation aimed In response to these challenges, the Gillard at promotingWeGovernment will needvolunteering has committedmore amongskilled $1.75 his healthbillion fellow overand universityfivecommunity yearsstudents. workers, for a engineers, new skills IT reform specialists National Partnershipand construction Agreement workers. with the states. TheWeSkills 2012 are Australia working Sydney toVolunteerestimates deliver access that Awards in to thea governmentare five now years opentosubsidised –2015, you Australiacan training nominate place,will need untilat least anThursday toadditional a Certificate 2.1 8 NovemberIIImillion level, peopleto in all categories Australians in the workforcelike in ‘Education’,order towith improve VET theirqualifications. skills and help them get a job with a ‘Environment’brighter future. and ‘Senior Volunteer’. In response to these challenges, the Gillard I amTheGovernment holding entitlement a ceremonyhas committedwill meanto present $1.75there the billionare awards, more over fiveproviders years out for there a offering new skills training reform with National and all local residents are welcome to attend. Partnershipgovernment Agreement subsidies. withOn thethe states.ground, this means there will be more training options in TheWemore details are places. working are: to deliver access to a government subsidised training place, at least to a Certificate WeIII level,want to to all giveAustralians VET instudents order tothe improve same 5pm-6pm, Wednesday 5 December theiropportunity skills andthat helpuniversity them studentsget a job have with had a Redfernforbrighter years Oval future. – Communitythe chance toRoom defer their upfront 51 paymentsRedfern Street, through Redfern student loans. The entitlement will mean there are more John and Michael of Oscar Wylee with graphic designer Jean Photo: Andrew Collis RSVP:Theseproviders [email protected] critical out VET there reforms offering will trainingbe put towith the statesgovernment and territories subsidies. at the On April the meeting ground, of thisthe Reframing White Cane Day TheCouncilmeans Awards there of make Australian will it be possible more Governments trainingfor our community options(COAG). in to recognisemore places. individuals who have given Andrew Collis of activities to mark the day. with donations to the Ranzco Eye They will help break down the barriers to Lions service clubs helped to educate Foundation. Ranzco is based in Australia somethingWetraining want back soto all togive ourAustralians VET community students can and accessthe made same the October 15 was International White the public about the aspirations, hopes and offers eye care to thousands of people qualifications they need to create a brighter Cane Day. and abilities of people who are blind throughout Australia and South East Asia. a difopportunityference to thatother university peoples’ studentslives. have had or have low vision. Lions organised Based in Chippendale, Oscar Wylee forfuture years for –themselves the chance – ato better defer job, their a better upfront pay People who are blind have used canes events to emphasise equal capabilities launched online in September. All paymentspacket, and through better jobstudent security. loans. to help them find their way for centuries and talents of people who are visually glasses, including prescription lenses I hope you can be par t of of this year’s Awards but the origin of the white cane lies impaired or deaf-blind. There were also and delivery, are available for under $100. between the two world wars. James Biggs events to educate the public about white “Our frames are great quality and great eitherThese as acritical nominator, VET reformsa recipient will orbe an put attendee to the of Bristol claims to have invented the cane laws, and to advocate for “beep” value,” John Teoh said. “The acetate we statesAuthorised and territories by Tanya at the Plibersek April meeting MP of the white cane in 1921. After losing his sight traffic lights and other safety devices. use is Italian, high quality. We really took on December 5. and feeling vulnerable to traffic near his Long-term Lion John Lanzky attended our time with selecting the designs and Council Labor of Australian Member Governments for Sydney (COAG). home, he painted his walking stick white a Lions event at the Marigold Restaurant colours. The lenses are crafted in a lab 150 Broadway, Chippendale NSW 2008 to be more visible to motorists. American in Haymarket that raised $82,000 for in Surry Hills – it’s a lab that provides They will help break down the barriers to 9379To find 0700 out| [email protected] more about the 2012 Sydney doctor Richard Hoover developed the various charities including Lions' own lenses to 10,000 optometrists throughout training so all Australians can access the “long cane” method of cane travel as a Save Sight Foundation. Lions Christmas Australia.” Volunteer Awards or receive a nomination form means to help blind war veterans. Cakes will be sold again this year to raise “We’re really proud of our product, qualifications they need to create a brighter A day recognising the importance of funds for Save Sight. and we wanted to include the charity contactfuture my for office themselves on 9379 – a better 0700 job, or ago better to pay the white cane was first proclaimed in Michael Lim and John Teoh met as component,” Michael Lim said. “It adds 1964 by American President Lyndon first-year commerce students at the something for us and for our customers. www.notforprofit.gov.au/volunteering.packet, and better job security. B. Johnson. He designated October 15 University of NSW. Inspired by an It’s important to give something to help as White Cane Safety Day and called online revolution in optical dispensaries others – so many people with vision upon the community to observe the challenging the duopoly of multinationals impairment can be helped with simple day with ceremonies and activities. In (Luxottica and Safilo own the vast procedures and basic glasses.” Authorised by Tanya Plibersek MP 1970 the President of the International majority of eye-wear brands), the two This month Oscar Wylee unveils a Labor Member for Sydney Federation of the Blind declared October friends dropped out of uni to found their range of sunglasses. S 15 International White Cane Safety own eyewear company. Oscar Wylee 150 Broadway, Chippendale NSW 2008 Day. This year, service providers and offers classic styles, free home trials and www.oscarwylee.com.au 9379 0700 | [email protected] community groups participated in a range a “buy a pair, give a pair” commitment www.lionsclubs.org.au/cakes 6 News November 2012 New councillors for City of Sydney
Cr Edward Mandla (Liberal) Cr Angela Vithoulkas
Jesse Peters (Living Sydney) Edward Mandla wants to bring his expertise in with previous roles as technology and business to his first term in office past president of the Jesse Peters Radio which broadcasts with the City of Sydney. Australian Computer Passionate small business owner, Angela Society, vice-president and has its studio right “I came from a migrant family which appreciated Vithoulkas, ran for council to help give small of the Consensus in the cafe. I am the democracy and always spoke about politics at businesses a say. Having caught her first shoplifter Technology Association, judge of the Consensus winner of the 2007 NSW Telstra Women’s Business the dinner table. My Father would proudly say at the age of 3, it is easy to see how involved Angela Software Awards, and President of the Sydney Owner and the 2006 NSW Entrepreneur of the Year you could be anything in Australia including a has become with the business community. She City Liberals. amongst many other awards.” politician. So, I was always interested.” discusses her personal achievements, and what she Although he has had somewhat of an embellished hopes to bring to the City of Sydney. Angela states that the success of her campaign A technophile at heart, Edward has run career, Edward aims at achieving his priorities in was a result of attending community meetings and technology companies for the past 13 years of “When I found out a few months ago that I had a gaining safer streets and cutting expenditure by listening to people. The people of Sydney are her his life, and a background in dealing with large right to vote as a small business owner, and this working closely and objectively with his fellow number-one priority as she vows to continue to act software companies has given him an edge in information had been kept hidden, I realised that councillors. as an open ear. politics: “I see my role as councillor as one of it must have meant that lots of other small business civic leadership and facilitating communication “Working with other councillors will be owners had also been denied their democratic Working toward decreasing areas of overspending, between residents and a large and complex interesting as a council of 10 is split down the rights. That was the start. Then when I started and being a voice and advocate for homeless council operation. I also see my election platform middle with five in the Clover Moore Team. It’s talking to people about Council I discovered that people in Sydney, Angela’s first term in council is as my priorities – safer streets, cutting wasteful likely the Greens will continue their alliance with many local residents also felt just as neglected. The looking to tackle a range of different issues, in a expenditure, supporting local business and better the Clover Moore Team, allowing them to push whole community needs better representation and proactive way. transport integration.” through their agenda. So far, all councillors a voice that will fight for them.” are cordial, enthusiastic and committed to [email protected] Edward won the first university medal for For the past 27 years, Angela has run an award- considering everything before them objectively.” information technology while attaining an winning small business in the CBD. “I run a cafe in the CBD with my brother Con, and I also have a small honours degree at the University of NSW. [email protected] He also has an impeccable professional portfolio business online radio station called Eagle Waves
Cr Linda Scott (ALP) Cr John Mant (CMIT)
andrew collis Centre for two years. andrew collis “I loved that centre. It Linda Scott lives with her husband and two young John Mant attended Sydney University in the 1960s John also co-wrote the was started by a group children in Erskineville. An elected member of the with fellow students Bob Hughes, Clive James, Leo Local Government Act. “It of migrant women NSW ALP Policy Forum and a past Co-Convenor Schofield and John Bell. “It was an exciting time. I took years to write and who organised English of Labor for Refugees, Linda was the successful studied arts, then law,” he said. implement [1989-1993],” classes, sewing and he said. “Council candidate following Labor’s first community From an early age, John found himself drawn to the cooking classes, budget assistance – ensuring that departments were outposts of state agencies. pre-selection process. She was sworn in with fellow Labor side of politics. “I was always interested in nobody in Surry Hills was left out or left behind.” Councils had very few powers. The new Act offers councillors at a ceremony featuring the city’s own infrastructure and planning, in reform, in something Linda is the Deputy Chair of Council’s Community councils the freedom to reform. Sydney has taken town crier. “It meant a lot, taking the oath. I feel other than paternalism. I was interested in Committee. on some reforms. Sydney has incredibly good staff, privileged to be serving as a councillor,” she said. sustainable community and how that’s managed.” A keen drummer, Linda is aware of the dearth and the CEO is a great team leader.” Linda is Labor’s sole representative across the At one time he was senior advisor to Tom Uren, of music venues in the city. “A city needs music, Local Government Area. She succeeds Dr Meredith and in the mid-1970s, principal private secretary John was recently President of the Paddington which means venues not just for pokies. The Surry Burgmann. “I have great respect for Meredith. to Gough Whitlam. Following the sacking and Society. “It’s the oldest community heritage Hills Festival [this year in Prince Alfred Park on She’s been an activist against apartheid, involved defeat of the Whitlam government, he moved to organisation in Australia. We’ve resisted October 27] always meant opportunities for young with the green bans, social justice and equity, the South Australia and worked for five years in the inappropriate development and ensured that bands. I’ll be keen to encourage more of that, more environment, all good causes. I want to build on Planning and Housing Department of Don Dunstan’s Paddington retains its Victorian streetscapes and opportunities for live music.” that good work, definitely,” she said. government. “It was a terrific experience, the remains a liveable suburb.” “I support wards because I’m for true local culmination of all I’d learnt up to that point.” “There’s a community feel here [in Erskineville] John believes in responsible management of representation. A spread of candidates across the we really like. You realise how important quality In 1986, John was invited by the Liberal government change. “I’d like housing tenants in particular to LGA offers better service to local communities. The childcare is, how important quality parks are in to co-ordinate a major inquiry into the Housing know that in the context of fundamental changes to referendum was defeated at the last election, but the inner city – for children and for everybody. Department. “Power was to be taken away from housing and social policy, I believe their rights are I’d be keen to see it discussed and proposed again Childcare is a core council responsibility. At the architects and planners and towards managers and paramount.” in future.” moment there’s a waiting list of 495 babies.” social workers on the ground – community housing was given a big boost.” [email protected] Linda was Chair of the Surry Hills Neighbourhood [email protected]
School funding based on children’s needs Lyn Turnbull the $5 billion per year required for the increasing in other OECD countries. At child, but it is impacted by the student’s John Farrell, the principal of Our Lady recommendations. He stressed that the the same time, the Australian system has cohort. Australia, more than other OECD of Mount Carmel School, introduced On October 15, in light of the Gonski amount is the less than 0.5 per cent of GDP become increasingly unequal, despite the countries, has a dense concentration of his presentation with an example of the Review of school funding, Tanya and that, on his second favourite page of depiction of Australia as an egalitarian both low SES and high SES schools. A typically unexpected demands that he Plibersek, the Federal Member for the report, Gonski made it very clear that society. In 2009, 25 per cent of the lowest third of students attend a school where faces at his school in Waterloo. That Sydney, hosted a public forum with unless we act and act now there will be socioeconomic status (SES) students failed average SES is below the average SES of afternoon an 8 year-old boy wasn’t picked three speakers about the Future of serious social and economic consequences to meet minimum literary standards. the nation as a whole, with 60 per cent of up from school, so he walked him home. School Funding. for Australia. Disparities in students' literary capabilities low SES students at schools with low SES When no one was home they went on a Mr Gavrielatos expressed his dismay also increased with age, with a five-year profile, which is substantially higher than bit of a walk around the streets of Redfern Angelo Gavrielatos, the Federal that, while in April the NSW Premier difference between highest and lowest for comparable OECD countries. to locate an aunty who lived a couple of President of the Australian Education is on record as having said that we performing quintiles by year 9. Government schools do as well, if not blocks away. This, he said, was typical of Union, welcomed the central tenet of ignore Gonski at our own peril, the state She spoke of the cause of the lack of better, in the “value add” of the school so many families in the area who, without David Gonski’s report that “differences government has since announced cuts equity in Australia’s extremely competitive which measures the difference between hesitation, take in a couple of extra children in educational outcomes must not be the of $1.7 billion from schools and TAFE and mobile education system where the attainments of students when they arrive in times of need. results of differences in wealth, income, colleges. division of 63 per cent government, at the school compared to when they “It was music to our ears that the power or possessions” and emphasised Former Labor NSW Minister for 21 per cent Catholic system and 16 per leave. This particularly applies to low SES federal government’s response to Gonski’s that changes to the Commonwealth Education and Training, Verity Firth, is cent independent schools, allows parents students who attend higher SES schools. emphasis is on children’s needs,” he said. government funding model are key to now the CEO of the Public Education with financial resources and geographic The best performing nations have both His 134 students are 64 per cent Indigenous, implementing the changes advocated Foundation. She was asked to speak about options to choose to send their child to a excellence and equity. 32 per cent have identified special needs by Gonski, as it is “Commonwealth disadvantage and about how Gonski seeks different school if they perceive standards Ms Firth pleaded with the audience to and 85 per cent speak a language other than funding arrangements that have to address it. are inadequate. campaign for the implementation of the standard English at home (keeping in mind contributed to the growing inequity She outlined how education Research that the report relies upon report’s recommendations as “Gonski cuts Aboriginal English is an identified language) and it is the Commonwealth that has performance in Australia has slipped identifies that educational performance is away the stultifying politics of recent years and 80 per cent of the students live in the revenue-raising capacity” to provide over the last decade, whereas it is not just related to the SES of the individual and says let’s just fund on need”. Waterloo and Redfern public housing. S November 2012 News 7
Veggie variety
by Andrew Collis try alternatives to soy products (at one stage it When I first made the seemed that every meal transition to a plant- based diet, wise long-term I made was soy-based). vegetarians advised me of Rice milk is good, and so is the importance of eating a almond milk. Some friends wide variety of vegetables, recommended seitan. fruits, grains, nuts and It’s chewy and delicious Tanya Plibersek with nurses in Waterloo Photo: Esther Butcher legumes. One of the things that first attracted in a pot of hot veggies. me to vegetarianism was I’ve also tried to eat lots of More support needed for the simplicity of meal different kinds of beans as preparation – but I needed well as quinoa. And how to ensure that I didn't disability services good are chickpeas! They just eat the same thing Dorothy McRae-McMahon that experienced by a family that includes area are very much specialist nurses. every day. are sensational – you can someone who is ill in the general sense. They are required to have a number of On October 26, many thousands of Parents of a child with a disability have core skills, including general nursing, mash them up and even people around the country gathered little option but to hand over most of their behavioural management, medical I learned to experiment a make them into cutlets! to share in DisabiliTEA events. These lives to that child, or pay for someone expertise, methods of training people little, which for me meant drew attention to the urgent need for the else to do so. Siblings of the child are and special ways of communicating. introduction of the National Disability often impacted in numerous ways, as they Each person with a disability is likely to not just relying on my trusty Insurance Scheme (NDIS) into every grow up in a different environment from have different needs. Disability nurses are sandwich maker – adding Vegetarian and vegan Australian community. their peers. required to have depths of relationship sultanas or pieces of apple friends are important What many of us don’t realise is with their clients that would not apply in Federal Minister for Health, Tanya that nurses who care for people with most other areas of nursing, and wide- to a pot of veggies, then sources of information and pine-nuts, cashews, a herb Plibersek, cut the cake at the DisabiliTEA disabilities in government facilities are ranging responsibilities for people, many encouragement. Swapping morning tea in Waterloo. She was well paid 6 to 15 per cent less than public of whom need 24-hour care. or two, some spices. Some aware of the community concern over hospital colleagues and therefore it is It is hoped that the community at recipes helps to keep food “forgotten” veggies rose the state of disability services, which are difficult to recruit people into this work. large will recognise all these issues, critical to the lives of many families. One There is a petition now circulating to the give clear support for dealing with them to prominence – beetroot fun – and the occasional of the key issues in relation to care for NSW government requesting that this and affirm the work of nurses who are baked in the oven, spinach, dinner party is perfect for people with disabilities is the impact on injustice be ended. desperately needed by vulnerable people kale, carrots, zucchini, whole families. It is often far greater than In fact, nurses who work in the disability and their families. S sampling new dishes – sweet potato (my current starters, mains, desserts. favourite)! Is avocado a vegetable? It might be It makes sense to eat a a fruit. variety of foods.
I learned to buy my own Some people might tofu – and about different think that vegetarianism is kinds of tofu and tempeh. I really like soy milk – all boring. That’s definitely not kinds – but I learned to my experience.
Column sponsored by TAPEO CAFÉ 82 Redfern St, Redfern Tel 8084 7237 (Open seven days, late Thu-Sun)
Many local cafes are expanding their menus to cater for vegetarians. Tapeo Café & Tapas Bar in Redfern Anita Tang, Manager of Policy and Advocacy, Cancer Council NSW Photo: Andrew Hill has several delicious veggie options. Come in and ask! Healthy Alliance for wellbeing of all
Lyn Turnbull reported the success of the Liverpool opportunities, was part of a number of The third major action focuses around police. Commissioner Andrew Scipione group action in achieving an undertaking lighting audits undertaken in August and Social Inclusion. After inspiring stories responded positively to the Alliance’s One year on from its founding from the newly elected Council to install September. When the Transport team from Scott and Chantel, who both proposal of partnership programs for Assembly last September, Sydney dedicated pick-up and drop-off zones took the results to the City of Sydney it overcame difficulties in their youth police and Alliance organisations, Alliance held its second City Assembly outside medical centres. committed to making $75,000 worth of in Glebe when given opportunities but with a “maybe … let’s look at the at the Sydney Town Hall on Sunday The Transport team has identified improvements. for employment, we heard that an data” to its proposal for Search and October 28 to report back to over safety at the major interchange stations Nina Zeng, a Sydney University student employment agreement to take on young Seizure Receipts. 1,000 members from its 48 partner as key to its vision “for Sydney to have a who spoke to the Assembly, contrasted people from the local housing estate in Opportunities for future action brought organisations. world-class public transport system that Redfern to “my home station at Campsie apprenticeships is close to being finalised. the afternoon to a close, with more than is regular, reliable, clean, safe and easy [which] has been redeveloped. It’s well Layla told of her experiences as a 1,000 committing their involvement. S Under the banner “Change Our to use … regardless of health, wealth, lit, well staffed, looks cared for” as she young Tongan woman going to the Suburbs, Change Our City”, the age and mobility”. Redfern, as the station spoke of her reluctance to travel home assistance of male friends who were Further details can be found at Community Support and Health team that has the second most interchange by train after dark. regularly stopped and searched by www.sydneyalliance.org.au 8 NEWS November 2012
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Redfern Station Officer Peter Eastment Photo: Sandra Beeston Assure Psychology Putting out the fires Sandra Beeston it’s gonna be an automatic fire alarm has been identified as one of the TOL- Urban Nature wellbeing centre or a car accident or a house fire, you ing stations, because we’re surrounded There are not many professions don’t know... every job is different, by other stations, like Alexandria, 216 enmore rd (cnr edgeware Rd) that can boast having the general so you just got to be on your toes. We headquarters in Sydney, Pyrmont, respect of the whole community: do a lot of training for the job, and we Newtown, and so they can afford to enmore nsw 2042 doctors, nurses, vets, lifeguards have to keep our skills up to maintain take us offline basically. It’s quite a ... When kids are asked what they a level of endurance,” Peter says. difficult one, but the fire brigade is want to be when they grow up, Peter’s proudest moments were trying to work through it.” However, Caring, confidential psychological services one of the most recurring answers when he was able to rescue people according to a source from Fire & to help you deal with life’s difficulties would be: “A firefighter!” There is from burning homes. However, most Rescue NSW, there is no plan at present nothing quite like the appeal of the of the firefighter’s time is spent being to close Redfern Station completely. shiny red fire engine, the powerful called out on false alarms provoked Redfern Fire Brigade has shown itself Bulk billing available on referral from GP water hose and the heroism of saving by smoke detectors. “The average to be very close to the community, lives from house fires to ignite number of fire calls would be five to with the inauguration last year of a the imagination and admiration six per shift: most of it, four-fifths of mural painted by children to launch Contact Elizabeth Munro on 0408 612 808 of children and adults alike. them would be Automatic Fire Alarms the Aboriginal Fire Safety campaign or at [email protected] (AFAs). The smoke alarm goes off, aimed at reducing Aboriginal It’s with a similar sense of sends a signal and here we go!” He deaths and injuries from residential excitement that firefighter Peter says that 95 per cent of the time, the fires. The brigade also goes out in Eastment remembers his first firecall: alarm turns out to be false, provoked the community to educate people. “I was stationed at headquarters in by dust in the detector or food left on “We often go to pre-schools and schools the city, my first fire-call was down the stove. “It has been a problem in [...] teach kids about bad fires, good William Street towards Kings Cross, the brigade for a long time. The AFAs fires, get down low, go-go-go, the we drove down the wrong side of use a lot of our resources, so we’ve fire escape plan, all those things that the road all the way and I thought: got this group called the Automatic are crucial in a fire.” They also run ‘How cool is this!’” Now a Station Fire Alarm Reduction Committee, a program called SABRE (Smoke Officer, Peter Eastment has been and they’re looking at ways to Alarm Batteries REplacement), a firefighter for 16 years and has reduce that and then to free up the where they go to people’s homes Rebecca McMahon been stationed in Redfern for three resources.” He says, for example, that and change the smoke alarms, to months. “I just wanted to serve the they are thinking of putting up the help, for example, elderly people, community. I didn’t want to become fine charged to building/apartment who have smoke alarms but can’t Solicitor a policeman, or an ambulance officer. owners for sounding false alarms. get up on their ladders and replace The fire brigade was a way of serving, In the past few months there their batteries. “We encourage Experienced criminal law solicitor. I was in the rural fire service for years has also been a growing sense of people to change the batteries in where I used to live, and I had an frustration amongst firefighters, their smoke alarms when they put Based in Redfern. interest in firefighting, so I joined.” provoked by recent plans by the NSW their clocks forward, as it happens Despite the tragedies that firefighters government to temporarily close some every year, as a way to remember.” are often confronted with, there is fire stations due to a $64 million cut in So far Peter has had a positive Phone: 0431 931 674 also a lot of satisfaction to be found the budget, and a number of impression of Redfern: “It’s settled in the job. “The comradeship is a firefighters organised protests last down a lot this area, it’s settled down Email: [email protected] great part of the job, and wherever June to express their anger. “TOL” amazingly. It’s got a broad mix of social you go in the fire brigade you’ll find (Temporarily Offline) was set up by the issues, I guess you could say, and the mates to depend on and have a great government to cut in on the sick leave fire service tends to not look at race, time with. I guess the adrenaline, you and overtime budget, so that when a creed and status in the community. never know what you’re gonna get, fire station is offline, the brigade is only We’re just here to do a job, put the fires you walk downstairs, and you see the used to fill sick-leave vacancies. Peter out, we attend to the alarms and we screen and you don’t know whether Eastment says: “Redfern Fire Station go home.” S November 2012 COMMENT & OPINION 9
readers’ letters VC’s re-appointment Who is The Vice Chancellor of the your God? University of Sydney has been re-appointed for a further five-year faith term. I sincerely hope that during the next five years the University’s Dorothy McRae-McMahon relations with its neighbours improve substantially. At a community meeting What you believe your God commands at the Settlement on April 20, 2010, you to do and who that God is are not the VC stated: “One of the things easily separated. that has come back again and again is that the University, quite frankly, If you believe that you are commanded is ashamed of not being very good by your God, or the Prophet who represents neighbours.” that God to you, to plant a bomb and kill Being a good neighbour involves people who are your opponents, then you listening to the concerns of your worship a God who would do that. This God fellow neighbours, recognising hates those who apparently don’t bow down their needs and rights, and acting to him and isn’t worried if some innocent accordingly. By not doing this in people, who happen to be around when the relation to the Abercrombie Precinct bomb goes off, are killed. This God believes Development (APD), the University that, if it is a suicide bombing, it is good has continued “not being very good that you who planted the bomb, die too. neighbours”. In other words, if this God were a person, The Darlington community is no price would be too high to pay to force cartoon: norrie mAy-welby united in not wanting the access people to do what he/she wanted. I must road to the APD carpark to be situated say, I would find it hard to recommend this on residential Abercrombie Street God to anyone. and close to the Primary School. The community thought that the If you believe that your God requires Safety issues in Waterloo University was listening when the women to submit to men, especially in VC made the following promise in a marriage relationship, then you are a public statement in July 2011: “In portraying a presumably male God who and Redfern response to concerns from residents insists that women do what they are told to and parents of school children, we do by men. Underlying this commandment have relocated the entry point to the has to be a reality that men know more editorial Serious assaults, a number and looking at the way allocations basement carpark from Abercrombie than women and are superior to them. If of suicides and numerous daily are made. The Factory and its St to Darlington Lane and our traffic this is so in a marriage relationship, it can Michael Shreenan incidents are creating communities partners, Waterloo Safety Action consultants are examining the traffic be assumed that it surely follows that men of anxiety out of communities that Group, REDWatch and Redfern loading.” should dominate women in all relationships. Simmering social concerns are have historically been caring and Neighbourhood Advisory Board, The community was dismayed This God obviously created men to be reaching boiling point in Waterloo neighbourly. Over-stretched and are calling for a more integrated when the revised plans for the APD superior to women, rather than equal though and Redfern. under-resourced services (both approach to human services, and submitted to the Department of different. And what if the woman refuses to government and non-government), more early prevention strategies to Planning showed this access road submit? Has the man the right to punish her, A community meeting held on Tuesday especially for those with mental community safety challenges. still to be on Abercrombie Street. The even with violence? There is considerable October 16 at The Factory Community health problems and ex-offenders At a community meeting on University has never explained why Centre noted the disconnect between with little post-release support, are Tuesday October 30, called to discuss evidence to indicate that this does happen. the access road could be relocated to what the police are working on, and creating an environment of fear and the installation of the afterhours In teaching this about God, people convey Darlington Lane in July 2011 but now Housing NSW allocation policies that uncertainty. The meeting heard stories Needle Dispensing Machine outside the assumption that God is male and that, cannot. house those with the most chaotic of “unauthorised” occupants standing Redfern Health Centre, Sydney Local therefore, women can’t really represent this lifestyles and complex needs without over people, taking over properties and Health District’s Chief Executive One thing that would go a long God. Of course, Christians, Muslims and much thought for the impact on taking money, as well as damaging Dr Teresa Anderson announced the way towards repairing the damage Jews have often inferred that anyway. On communities. Police are dealing with property to gain access, drug-dealing creation of a part-time community to the University’s relationship with the other hand, in the Jewish Scriptures, Darlington would be if the University a disproportionate number of recently queues in internal corridors, ineffective health liaison role in Waterloo and there are some beautiful references to the stood by the VC’s promise to move the released ex-offenders, people with mental security contracts and little care from Redfern. Hopefully this will encourage Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Wisdom, as female. access road from Abercrombie Street. health needs, as well as increasing drug most government agencies. other agencies to look more closely Culturally, over the ages, women have We hope that the VC’s new five-year availability and associated crime and The meeting suggested inviting at how they can better respond to mostly been regarded as subject to men. anti-social behaviour. Probation and Parole into discussions S term begins with him making every complex issues in our area. In practical terms some of this has been effort to ensure that this happens. related to the fact that women are the child- Colin Sharp bearers and that has often deterred them RAIDD (Residents Acting In Darlington’s from being able to assume all sorts of work Defence) and responsibilities. In our present day and Faith in mining? culture, the beauty of shared parenting can be seen in many families – the richness and COMMENT resource sector governance. State relentless pursuit of economic growth McCurdie talked about how Judaism creativity of both mother and father engaging governments have been “licensing and resource extraction, claiming that insists the land is God’s, and that deeply with their children as they grow. Miriam Pepper mining projects like there is no the resources are given to humanity to humans are only tenants. When women are required to submit tomorrow”, environmental assessment exploit for its own benefit,” he said. Following a time of questioning of to men, so much wisdom and creative On Sunday October 14, people from and monitoring are lax, and royalties Nonetheless, Reichardt emphasised the keynote speakers and panelists, inter-relationship can be lost. We also lose a diversity of religious backgrounds are very low – for example, in NSW that a more ecologically sensitive the event finished with table the depths of relationship with a God who came together at Christian Brothers they are only half of what they are theology can contribute to efforts discussions, wherein all present embraces in being all types and genders High School in Lewisham to spend an in Indonesia. to live with greater appreciation reflected on the issues raised and of people, who has walked their way and afternoon exploring the ecological, Next, Jacinta Green, a marine and sensitivity on the planet’s most shared suggestions for ways forward. entered into all their realties with love and social and economic issues associated ecologist who is involved in the ecologically fragile continent. Participants encouraged each other understanding. with Australia’s mining boom. No Coal Seam Gas Mining in Sydney An interfaith panel of five speakers to take positive action – for example, Then we may have racism, certainly in campaign and in the Lock the Gate followed, with each contributor through mindfully investing our Organised by the inter-religious Faith Alliance, discussed the rapid expansion offering brief insights from their superannuation and connecting with our history we did, especially in the days of Ecology Network, the Faith in Mining? of coal seam gas mining in Australia respective religious traditions to the No Coal Seam Gas Mining in slavery when people quoted “Slaves obey event began with an acknowledgement and its ecological impacts in terms of counter exploitation and greed. Sydney campaign. Ideas for future your masters” from the Christian Bible. The of country led by Frances Bodkin, habitat fragmentation, ground- and Edwin Humphries spoke of Bahá'í interfaith events, such as a prayer God portrayed in all this was one who had, a D’harawal knowledge holder surface-water contamination, and the teachings emphasising the oneness of vigil, were also canvassed. obviously, created people with differing (Bidigal clans). compromising also of agricultural land. humanity, and the need for economic I had arrived at the forum status. Coloured people were inferior to Paul Cleary, a writer with The “CSG extraction is not just happening systems based on altruism. Dr Balwant expecting points of disagreement white people and should serve them rather Australian and an ANU public policy ‘over there’ – it’s happening here”, said Singh similarly emphasised that in relation to a topic as politically than hope for justice and equality. In our researcher, was the first keynote Green, referring to CSG exploration and Hinduism understands the whole charged as mining. Yet, in what was country, we didn’t even count Indigenous speaker. He spoke about the scale of extraction in the Sydney Basin. world to be a family, and perceives nevertheless a culturally diverse people in the census until the 1960s. What the mining boom, the institutional Frances Bodkin then returned the unity of all existence and the gathering, such disagreement was sort of God would see them as not worthy factors that are shaping it, and its social to the microphone, lamenting the presence of God in all things. Jacqui not apparent. Instead, there was an of being counted? and environmental consequences. consequences of unfettered mining – Remond, director of Catholic Earthcare overwhelming sense of the need for This reality should invite in us much more Author of several books, including not only of minerals, but also of water Australia, commented that mining Australia’s religious communities to scrutiny of what we do and teach. We really the recently published Mine-Field: and trees. “We care for the land for one is also metaphor for the exploitation engage with the escalating resource cannot simply say, “It’s in the Bible” and The Dark Side of Australia’s Resources simple reason. The land is our mother, and fragmentation that is happening exploitation in this country – in the Rush, Cleary said he was shocked the land is alive. We must accept what in our own lives. Sadiq Ansari from words of one of the panelists, “not to therefore that is the word of God. If we do at the “feeding frenzy” and “lack of she gives us, not take,” said Bodkin. the Islamic Sciences and Research be bystanders, but to really make a that, we introduce others to a God whom we long-term thinking” he encountered The final keynote speaker was Academy explained that in Islamic positive contribution”. S would most likely not want as a friend and when he returned to Australia in late Uniting Church ecotheologian the jurisprudence, there is a 20 per cent whose standards for us often deny ordinary 2005 after serving as an advisor to Rev. Dr David Reichardt. “Religious rate of taxation on resource extraction. Faith Ecology Network: morality, let alone the great commandment the East Timorese government on dimensions have often bolstered the Finally, environmental lawyer Melissa www.faithecology.net.au to “Love your neighbour as yourself”. S 10 FEATURE November 2012
Graphic: Bob de Freitas Teens in custody rarely a good idea Is it a good idea to lock up teenagers who are charged with crimes? Except in rare cases – no. Do most kids charged with criminal offences get locked up? No. Do too many get locked up? Yes.
Paul Mulroney they were so annoyed at their kid, It means that some attempt to deal Another important area that can of bail is avoidable. The bail condition will now support them. Sometimes with causes of offending – alcohol fairly easily be changed is what shouldn’t be there in the first place. Who makes most of the decisions a juvenile justice worker presents a or drug problems, homelessness, happens when teenagers breach Sometimes conditions such as curfews that see teenagers in detention? courts? plan aimed at keeping them out of mental illness – can be made. their bail conditions. Sometimes or a requirement of regular reporting No, it is police officers authorised to trouble. Nevertheless, in most cases What is the solution? Police who they will commit a further offence to police are unnecessary or too make bail decisions when someone the situation isn’t much different from make bail decisions need to deal and sometimes the breach will be onerous. If the condition isn’t there in is arrested. More that 50 per cent of when they were at the police station. with young people as teenagers, not serious. In these cases bail refusal is the first place it can’t be breached. teenagers charged with crimes spend Why is a short time in custody a adults. It is sometimes easy to forget justified. In other cases the breach For a small number of teenagers less than a day in detention. This is bad thing? There are a few reasons. that we shouldn’t expect them to be is minor – being a bit late home the problem is much more serious. because they get charged, refused bail Being locked up rarely teaches the as responsible as adults. Teenage after curfew, staying at a relative’s These are the young people whose by police and then released on bail by kind of kid who gets to that point a offending is also more impulsive and house rather than being home as criminal offending is tied up with the Children’s Court later that day or lesson. More often it “contaminates” opportunistic that adult offending, required. In these cases a warning or lack of a parent or other carer, alcohol the next day. them by introducing them to more so they may be less likely than an arrest and release to fresh bail is the or drug addiction, homelessness or experienced criminals, providing a adult to do the same thing again. appropriate way forward. A study by chronic truancy. For these kids there The table across shows that the needs to be immediate assistance. most common time spent in custody Unfortunately, this is rarely the case. (mode) and the point where 50 2011-12 It is very rare for the Department per cent of times are longer and of Family and Community Services 50 per cent are shorter (median) Length of Stay in Days in Custody on Remand by ATSI Status to treat homelessness of a teenager are both one day. What this as a matter of concern. The waiting means is that some young people Average Median Mode list for residential drug and alcohol serve lengthy times in custody rehab programs is 6-12 weeks. Kids which bumps the average up. ATSI 20.6 1 1 suspended from school often aren’t Some teenagers commit serious given much support in getting into offences, or continue to commit a Non-ATSI 14.3 1 1 other forms of education or training. range of offences. It is important that Resources here would stop many the community is protected from Source: DAGJ/JJ RPELive Database. Extracted 24 Sept 12. As this is taken from a live database, figures are from developing lengthier criminal further crimes by these young people. subject to change. Unknown ATSI Status not included. careers and spending long and A bail decision involves making a expensive periods in custody. risk analysis about whether they will I am a Magistrate in the Children’s commit further serious offences. It network of associates with whom There is also a community interest in Charles Sturt University in 2009-10 Court. I don’t get it right all the isn’t only the interests of the young to commit further crimes. It also teenagers being kept out of custody. It showed that, in a sizeable sample time. I’m human. What I suggest person that needs to be considered. “inoculates” them by lessening the is rarely a good thing in the long run. group, all kids who breached their is not going to increase criminal To be fair to the police who make fear of going into custody. They think Police also need to be confident bail were refused bail by police. offending. Probably it will reduce bail decisions, there is usually more that a day inside wasn’t too bad, so that when making bail decisions they Fortunately, recent statistics show long-term offending. It doesn’t need information available, and presented the threat of custody as a deterrent can take risks and not be subject that fewer kids are being locked up a change of bail laws, just a change more persuasively by a lawyer, when to crime is reduced. For a small to unwarranted criticism if a well for breaching bail when they haven’t in police practices. For a few kids it a magistrate makes a bail decision. number of teenagers, custody is a considered bail decision ends up committed a further offence, but needs resources spent preventing Sometimes a parent, who wouldn’t good thing. It prevents them hurting being wrong. This involves support there is still room for improvement. their offending, not dealing with come to the police station because others or breaking into their homes. and leadership from their superiors. Sometimes the problem with breach the results. S The Review November ’12 11
Redfern Now premieres on The Block Photos: Isabella Moore Look at us now – Redfern Now premieres on The Block
Michael Page by the unearthing of a new talent, some time and regards Redfern people,” he says. He acknowledged locals attending its world premiere at 17 year-old Aaron McGrath, who itself as a “main character” in the the involvement of the Redfern The Block and the praise of critics in Around August Redfern stars in episode four. “He’s a local series. “We wanted to make a community in the development and the media are anything to go by, this fleetingly became a hub of activity Redfern kid who we discovered series that was both urban and filming of the series with many local is a series that should not be missed. with film sets cropping up across when casting. We thought ‘this kid contemporary. Redfern is such an identities and children featuring as the suburb. Buildings in Little looks great’ and he was fantastic.” iconic place for blackfellas and the extras throughout the episodes. Redfern Now is on ABC1 for Eveleigh Street were transformed Dale has been keen to make wider community. You get to see If the enthusiastic and positive six weeks from Thursday into police stations and The Block a story that features Redfern for the landmarks, the streets and the response to Redfern Now by Redfern November 1 at 8.30pm. and other streets throughout the suburb filled with lights, cameras, actors and film crews. POP TO PUCCINI Inquisitive locals drawn to these bright lights quickly learned that this commotion was all about an exciting drama series called Redfern Now which will go to air on ABC TV every Thursday night starting in November. Many became even more excited CHOIR EXPO when they heard that the much- admired English director Jimmy CONCERT McGovern was involved. McGovern SPECTACULAR is highly regarded for television WITH drama of the highest quality. His The Endeavour Harmony Chorus honest, insightful and gritty stories in series such as The Street, Cracker and The Lakes are renowned for their absorbing and rich stories filled with both warmth and despair. With McGovern working closely with the scriptwriters as Story Producer, the series tells the powerful stories of six inner-city Dallas Watts households whose lives are changed by a seemingly insignificant incident. The project was conceived only two years ago, acclaimed producer Darren Sat. 10th Nov 2012 - 7.30pm Dale (The First Australians, The Tall The Kings School, Nth Parramatta Man and Mabo), collaborating with a talented team of Indigenous writers and directors. Dale was able to draw Bookings and Info together what he describes as “a roll www.choirexpo.com.au call of great Indigenous actors” to star [email protected] in the six episodes including Deborah Ph: 0411 101 963
Mailman, Leah Purcell, Luke Carroll The Soap Monster Art Show, Ambush Gallery, Waterloo, October 31 Photo: Jovana Terzic and Wayne Blair. He was also excited
CHOIR EXPO 2012 DL FLYER 2.indd 1 12/09/12 11:41 AM 12 The Review November ’12
in Lola but the audience may feel less (2009), another film directed by Hillcoat, It wasn’t until walking out of the comfortable with this revelation. At the and The Assassination of Jesse James by the cinema after seeing Arbitrage that I The Reviews close, we are left with admiration for Lola’s Coward Robert Ford (2007) to the two realised I still had no idea what “arbitrage” ingenuity and resilience, sympathy for her above, though interestingly, he has done was. The word is not used in the film. Was Gina’s life also as it confronts her with struggle to be a successful entertainer, but lots of soundtracks. this a deliberate ploy to make me look it Theatre Review questions about her own needs and suspicious of the darker elements of her Both Lawless (1920s prohibition/ up and gain some glorious post-viewing by Heather Robinson, ambitions. Neither Lola nor Gina find nature. Ultimately, we don’t really know bootlegging America) and The Proposition insight into the film? Well, let me save Cecile Pauly & any kind of lasting fulfillment because who she is. (1880s bushranging/outback Australia) you the trouble … Catherine Wood they are driven to seek it in desire, which are excellent hyper-realistic and at times Arbitrage - n - The simultaneous in itself is transitory. »»[email protected] hyper-violent portrayals of important buying and selling of securities, currency, The play was fast-paced, funny, periods in their respective countries’ or commodities in different markets intelligently constructed and engaging. histories. The Road (post-apocalyptic, or in derivative forms in order to take The leads, Zoe Carides and Michael Film Reviews nihilistic road movie) and The Assassination advantage of differing prices for the Whalley, were captivating. The costumes by Lindsay Cohen of … are similarly dark and brooding. same asset. were wonderful, and costume changes Nick Cave is highly selective, chooses I am none the wiser. managed simply and effectively. A interesting films to be involved with My only conclusion is that, like Margin cellist (Richard Mills) sat to one side and works with directors, producers and Call, a similar examination of corporate and one time even joined the action actors on his creative wavelength (Guy greed and excess released earlier this year, onstage. The set (designed by Sarah-Jane Pearce, for example, is in Lawless and the term “arbitrage” is used to denote McAllan) featured a cabin trunk from The Proposition). This is something that, an exposé of the serious business and Tarantula which various props were taken – symbols, as an audience, we should be grateful for. dirty dealings normally beyond the Written by Alana Valentine intrusions almost of characters from Lola’s Lawless may not be everyone’s jar of comprehension of mere mortals (i.e., Directed by Nastassja Djalog past. These gave the impression of the moonshine, but there’s no denying it anyone not involved daily in multi-million King Street Theatre (27/10/12) constant “entrances” and “exits” of her own succeeds in creating an atmosphere laced dollar deals). life – different countries, different men, with tension, gun smoke and tobacco, and There is an important difference
Tarantula picks up the story of Lola different “roles”: “Spanish dancer”, “great hits its target right between the eyes. It’s between the two films though. Where Lawless Montez on July 8, 1856, when returning beauty”, “influential friend of King”, even that sort of film, and Nick Cave is that Margin Call is ultimately a simple Director: John Hillcoat to San Francisco from an exhausting “wife to American local newspaperman”. sort of musician. examination of corporate desperation, Writer/Composer: Nick Cave and scandal-filled Australian tour, Lola’s Most roles ended in a fiasco or failure, and Rating: Four homebrews Arbitrage at least poses some ethical Starring: Tom Hardy, lover, Noel Folland, disappeared from the Lola “reinvented” herself again in a new quandaries. It invites the audience to Shia LeBeouf, Guy Pearce deck of the Jane A. Falkenburg and was role. However, as the Ballarat episode question what they would do if faced with Genre: The other Roaring ’20s never seen again, presumed drowned. of the play shows, Lola’s performance a convenient multi-million dollar financial Using the conceit of a play within a of life was threatened by ageing, which solution that is somewhat less than legal play, Tarantula (premiered here at the she describes as “the sin with no name”. That Nick Cave is a genius and a legend (assuming they could understand it). King Street Theatre but first read as The King Street Theatre is an intimate of the Australian music scene is not in But with notable lefties Richard part of the Griffin Searchlight program) space – an apt environment in which to question. So talented is he that clearly Gere, Susan Sarandon and Tim Roth traces the story of Lola’s life by having pose questions of a sensual and sexual he could have made a career just out heading the billing, there is no doubt a contemporary actress, Gina, making a nature. In what ways have women’s powers of writing hard-edged, gritty, dusty and where Arbitrage’s sentiments lie. These play about her hero. changed in the intervening years between violent period pieces if he wanted to. Alas, don’t distract from the all-round excellent As the audience enters the theatre, Lola and Gina? What have the attitudes he only has a short history as a writer of performances, though. Indeed, Gere has Lola is apparently asleep on a day bed of the churches contributed, concealed screenplays. Apart from Lawless his only supposedly delivered his best effort yet, Arbitrage in her cabin. In a semi-reverie she begins and revealed? other effort was 2005’s The Proposition but I wouldn’t know as I boycotted him Director: Nicholas Jarecki to speak, rave almost, about the tarantula, Eventually, Gina comes to the (also directed by Australian John Hillcoat). after Pretty Woman in 1990. Starring: Richard Gere, Susan which she equates with the tantalising, conclusion that Lola pushed Noel Even as a composer of film musical Rating: Three-and-a-half billion Sarandon, Tim Roth complex, even destructive powers of desire. Folland overboard. She seems excited scores, Cave’s CV is short. During the Genre: Whatever Margin Call was Desire is shown as a complex force in by the discovery of the capacity for murder last 15 years you can add only The Road »»[email protected] Join the Fair Food Movement!
SSH ingredients,” Tom says. “The provenance of your produce and how they are grown Food Connect Sydney delivers has a huge effect on the quality of what seasonal boxes of sustainable produce you cook.” direct from local farmers. The organic and chemical-free fruit and vegetables, Spiced Apple and free-range eggs and bread are delivered to City Cousins (co-ordinators at Goat’s Cheese Salad various pick-up points) each week. Food Connect pays farmers a fair INGREDIENTS price, builds community and makes real food available to city folk. For the spiced apples 4-5 apples, peeled, cored and quartered Miriam Pepper, who co-ordinates Splash of olive oil the Food Connect pick-up each week Salt and freshly ground black pepper at South Sydney Uniting Church in 1 tsp ground cinnamon Miriam, Sally and Bowen with fresh produce from Food Connect Photo: Andrew Collis Waterloo, says: “It is great to be a part of ½ tsp coarsely ground coriander seeds an initiative that supports local farmers ½ tsp mixed spice and builds a fairer and more sustainable Juice of 1 orange METHOD vinegar, and roast in the oven for 8 Serve on a large plate and scatter over food system. I also like getting to know 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar mins. Transfer the apples to a large the roasted pinenuts and remaining other subscribers who come to pick up Preheat a griddle pan and preheat bowl and allow to cool. goats cheese and parmesan. their boxes each week.” For the salad the oven to 200C/400F/gas mark 6. Mix the extra virgin olive oil and Food Connect subscribers order 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Mix the apples in a bowl with the oil, lemon juice into the apple juices in the Recipe by Tom Kime at Fish & online (sydney.foodconnect.com.au). The Juice of 1 lemon salt, pepper and dried spices. roasting tray to make a dressing. Season Co., the sustainable seafood café website is easy to access and loaded with 100g rocket and/or watercress leaves When the griddle is hot, grill to taste (remember the cheese is salty). (41 Booth St, Annandale). If you helpful information. One new feature is 50g parmesan, shaved the apples for 1½ minutes on each Mix the leaves with the apple would like more recipes, there the collection of mouth-watering recipes 300g goats cheese, crumbled side until they are beginning to quarters. Add the slivers of Parmesan, are signed copies of his book by Tom Kime, Food Connect Annandale 30 flat parsley leaves, roughly chopped caramelise. Remove from the griddle along with some of the crumbled goat’s available at the restaurant or City Cousin. “To really cook well, you 75g pinenuts, oven-roasted until pale and place in a small roasting tray. Pour cheese and the parsley. Pour over the through the website (fishandco. have to start by learning about your golden-brown over the orange juice and red wine dressing and turn over gently to combine. com.au) for only $30. The Review November ’12 13
White Bay power station transform that environment into limpid pools of colour, towering over a shadowy streetscape. Paul Mallam’s photographs explore the gothic landscape of Sydney’s mangroves, where a pink inflatable ring sits eerily on the water, and there are other glimpses of a passing human presence. The exhibition challenges viewers to re-engage with recognisable landscape images in new and interesting ways, while playing with the conventions of the medium of landscape photography. With their focus on the mine-scarred desert landscape of Coober Pedy, an abandoned and crumbling power station and the mangrove tides which wash up and sweep away remnants of human existence, these images also poignantly remind the viewer of the transience of human life, especially on the Australian continent.
First Exposure terrainphotography 88 George Street Redfern Mystery and melancholy of the land Till November 17 www.terrainphotography.com ‘Coober Pedy’ (2012) Photo: Peter McMahon
Correction: In last month’s Review article, ‘Art home away from home’ by SSH collective is dedicated to depiction are fine art photographers Paul subverting three iconic landscape Sandra Beeston, we stated that 107 Projects and re-interpretation of the Mallam and Peter Lang. settings. In Peter McMahon’s took its name from the street address in Redfern resident and landscape, and its first exhibition, photographs of Coober Pedy, a Redfern. The name 107 Projects was derived gallery owner, Peter McMahon, called First Exposure, will open This exhibition of landscape lone cowboy stands in a deserted from the unit number at the collective’s former venue in Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills. is participating in the launch of at Peter McMahon’s space at 88 photography explores the mystery petrol station emptied of cars or This was an editor’s error. Apologies a new photography collective, George Street on November 3. and melancholy of the Australian any other signs of human life. Peter to Sandra Beeston and 107 Projects. called terrainphotography. The Other members of the collective landscape by re-constructing and Lang’s photographs of Sydney’s
you started work on a new project? In praise of street art A complement to all this urban stuff is the Harbour. And I’m Andrew Collis favourite music. If I’ve freed up it’s very excited about a series of large because I’m painting in acrylics frameless seascapes I’m doing. I Newtown artist Bede and their sketchy wet-on-dry look can’t wait for the next storm to Kelcher loves “the drama of suits the architectural subject matter. rough-up the skies. Cloudless blue clashing colours, the extremes How important is Newtown ones are SO boring. These new of light and shade at sunset, to your work as an artist? Is works really lend themselves to an the wonderful juxtapositions there a “Newtown style”? expressionist approach and I’m puttin’ that a city presents” … Newtown’s tremendous. The the paint on thick as toothpaste! streetscape is remarkably well What have you learned lately Your new works, streetscapes preserved and as a local I can be about art-making – what challenges especially, seem very free and at the right place at the right time and opportunities do you see? full of life. Can you describe your – such as a rainstorm at 6am. The To take note of people’s comments current approach and process? dramatic corner of King and Wilson ‘Newtown Praise’ (2008) Painting: Bede Kelcher and advice. I’ve just gotta get with Firstly, that is exactly what I’m on Street is wonderful. It hits you as you the digital age and promote myself. about, so I’m pleased you see that. come out of the station. The imposing By all reports your recent exhibition [in Enmore Road]. The paint- Get up to Paddington and have a I know it sounds terrible but I hate building dividing the traffic, I call the was a great success. What was the splattered floor of that place is a work show. But above all, keep on painting. sketching. I do, however, have a great “Green King of Newtown”, and I’ve experience like for you? Collaborators? of art in itself! Two local musicians And as long as the sun spotlights the camera on my mobile phone. The painted it four times already! As for It was great to see so many people played an acoustic set and we even streets and laneways of Surry Hills, “sketchy” part starts in my studio a “Newtown style” there may well come and enjoy the good vibes of joined in the singing! My co-exhibitor Newtown and Glebe, that I’ll do. and once I’ve worked out the basic be, but a stay-at-home bore like Clash of the Frypans exhibition, Hilary Latta had a great time too. composition I can “let it rip” to my myself is not the person to ask. at the very “arty” Fire Gallery What’s next for Bede Kelcher? Have www.bede-art.com.au Human influence over land
SSH “I find human manufactured as it is beautiful and strange. environments dynamic and exciting Chris Round is a fine art Chris Round is interested because they are in a constant state photographer, based in Sydney. in documenting the everyday of flux – humans create a myriad of He has worked in advertising, world around him, with a new subject matters daily,” he said. winning many creative accolades particular interest in post- “The changes they make to nature including a coveted Grand Prix at natural, human-influenced dramatically alter it irrevocably. Cannes (www.roundtheplace.com). landscapes. He loves human It is an anthropogenic ‘cycle of topographies and discovering time’ that I find fascinating.” All photographs printed by Warren places he never knew existed – The selection of photographs Macris at Giclée Australia. photographing the unfamiliar. in Evidence is from places across Evidence Australia and overseas: from Sanur Photographs by Chris Round In discovering anthropogenic, in Bali, to Cornwall in England, Curated & Produced by post-natural landscapes Round then to places much closer to home – Sandy Edwards sets out to document the evidence Homebush, Dural, Botany and Arthere Photomedia Space of these surreal relationships Western Sydney. This selection 126 Regent St, between humans and their natural of abandoned urban landscapes Redfern ‘Silverwater, Sydney’ (2012) Photo: Chris Round and man-made surroundings. is as mysterious and melancholic, Till Thursday November 22 14 The Review November ’12
The soup kitchen in action Photo: Matthew Johnson More than a decent feed
Kaley Payne rumour about free food at the local for Zac, even more important than church across the road. “At first I the food were the friendships he Zac Drayson lived on the was hesitant to go – I don’t like large found. “In the last seven weeks I’ve streets for more than 20 years crowds and I don’t want handouts,” been going to the one4food nights, before he moved into the Lawson Zac said. “But I needed a good feed.” I’ve got to know more people than Building on Morehead Street The “good feed” is provided by I had in the last seven months.” near Poet’s Corner in Redfern. one1seven church, an Anglican Standing on the other side of It was a big step for Zac to get a church in Redfern positioned just the serving tables is Shane Childs place of his own. Learning how to across the road from three of the who also lived on the streets for take care of a residence, getting biggest public housing towers in over a year, but is now finding a to know his neighbours and the city. Food is supplied every way to help out in his community thrust into a new environment Friday night by OzHarvest for by serving food and coffee every with people everywhere but no between 40 and 60 tower residents. Friday night. “The opportunity connection, Zac was struggling. And the number is growing. to connect with people in the “When I turned up, it was really community and give something On a particularly hard week, relaxed. There was music playing, back is a real blessing,” he said. Zac was finding it difficult to make people were chatting. There was milk www.one1seven.org Dave Graney and MistLY at the Red Rattler in Marrickville, October 19 Photo: Lyndal Irons financial ends meet. He heard a and bread to take back home.” But
South Sydney Kids Crossword
Poetry Across 1. Black rock used for fuel (4) Late August, Embarkation I went walking today 3. Buddy, chum (3) Park (Potts Point) I walked from here to 4 Jessica ---, Spy Kids 4 star (4) the end of the world 6. Hand-held spinning toy (4) The thin warmth The sensual world in a day 7. How old you are (3) of a low-angled sun And then I walked back again. ekes out a serving 8. --- Almighty, Steve Carell comedy (4) of girls eager to tan – Adrian Spry their wintered limbs. Down Sheltered by Wordplay is compiling an 1. Muddy mineral potters use to make objects (4) scratchy native flora anthology about Redfern Park. they shed designer jeans The group is interested in any 2. Depart, exit (5) for bonds boylegs CROSS photographs or memorabilia WORD 3. One who receives money for work (5) and with saintlike resolve BY D.W. of, or stories about, Redfern 5. Borrow out, lend (4) lay their clean flesh Park and its inhabitants in upon the dog-reeking grass. earlier days. If you think you have anything of interest – Catherine Wood to our anthologists please contact 0415 415 139. First correct entry (12 years and under) receives a prize. Send to: WORDPLAY South Sydney Crossword Creative Writing Group PO Box 3288, Red- Woolpack Hotel Redfern, 229 Chalmers Street, Redfern fern NSW 2016 6-8pm Wed, November 7 & 21. Phone Andrew on 8399 3410 last month's solution All welcome
For translation visit www.dharug.dalang.com.au November 2012 COMMUNITY NOTICES 15
SSH advertising works: "Since our ad has been in the SSH, it's been phenomenal. It has really raised our profile in the community. Interest has increased ten-fold from the old way of letterbox dropping." Wayne Lindeman, Food Distribution Network, Waterloo
BABANA BABANA Uniting Churches Aboriginal Men’s Group Next meeting Friday, November 30 ALL WELCOME! Souths on Chalmers 12-2pm South Sydney Uniting Church Babana Shed open Mon-Fri (72 Renwick St, Redfern) (56a Raglan St, Waterloo) Contact: Mark Spinks 0411 282 917 Redfern
SATURDAY ART CLASS South Sydney Uniting Church 56a Raglan St Waterloo 12-4pm Sat. Nov. 10 & 24 Worship (Eucharist): 10am Sunday Rev Andrew Collis 8399 3410 Welcoming people of all ages, All materials provided cultural backgrounds, Gold coin donation sexual orientations and identities. Peace with justice, integrity Phone 8399 3410 of creation.
Print by Gabriel Azzi Glebe Cafe Church Cnr St Johns Rd Taizé Pilgrimage of Trust in NSW 2012 Redfern Residents & Colbourne Ave Glebe ‘Towards a New Solidarity’ for Justice and Worship Sun 7pm With Br Ghislain from the Taizé Community Reconciliation ‘Colbourne Ave’ intimate candlelit concerts Thu 8pm As part of a week of prayers in Sydney, Redfern groups will host prayers on Time to reconnect – or to join for Allison Forrest 9518 9413 TUESDAY NOVEMBER 6. All welcome. the first time! Cana Farm (100 Kingswood Rd, Orchard Hills): 12-2.30pm. Meeting at The Settlement, 17 Share in a meal at 12pm, then prayers 1.30-2.30pm. Edward Street, Darlington. Leichhardt University Church South Sydney Uniting Church (56a Raglan St, Waterloo): 6-8pm. Wednesday November 21 at 7pm. 3 Wetherill St, Leichhardt 6pm for a light meal (please bring some food to share), then prayers 7-8pm. Open to all. (near Norton St) Enquiries: Lyn Turnbull Worship 6.30pm Sunday For more information about Taizé visit www.taize.fr 96993105; [email protected] Rev. Dr John Hirt 0408 238 117
Newtown Mission Waterloo 280 King St Newtown Recycling Worship 9.30am & 6pm Sunday food distribution network Rev Ps Doug Clements home delivery of low-cost fresh fruit & vegetables Workshop 9519 9000
The Food Distribution Network is a not-for-profit organisation that Workshop and market open Fridays 9am-12pm. delivers boxes of fresh and inexpensive fruit and vegies to older Paddington Uniting Church Turungah Flats, 1 Phillip St, Waterloo people, people with disabilities, people living with HIV/AIDS and carers (lower car park). 395 Oxford St Paddington who live in the City of Sydney and need assistance living independently Church Open 10am-2pm Affordable furniture and at home. For $9 you can have a box of 6-8kg of fruit and/or vegies household goods. 1st and 3rd Saturdays delivered to your door each week or fortnight. Donations gladly received Worship Sunday 7.30pm Please call 9699 1614 or e-mail [email protected] for more (no white goods or electrical apps). Office 9331 2646 information. These services are funded by the Home and Volunteers welcome Community Care programme and the AIDS Trust of Australia. Newtown Neighbourhood Centre (phone Naomi on 0407 576 098). Pitt Street Uniting Church 264 Pitt St, Sydney Worship 10 am Sunday Volunteers’ news Redfern Now been absolutely tireless in distributing Extravaganza at Tripod Café in Also very exciting will be Redfern the SSH, filling in for volunteers on Abercrombie Street. There will be & 6 pm (2nd and 4th Sundays) by pat clarke Now starting on ABC1 on Thursday holiday or ill, and has now taken over great food, quizzes, prizes and a Rev Ian Pearson 9267 3614 I hope you are all gearing up for November 1, 8.30pm for six episodes. routes from people who have had chance to meet your fellow volunteers REDWatch It looks like being a cracker series, to discontinue their contributions and supporters. More details in the Sydney in the summer. And for Jazz Meetings firstT hursday relevant to the local area. because of injury or illness. Thank you December issue. Wayside Chapel in the Park on Friday November 23 of the month at The Factory from 5pm at Joynton Park, Victoria Tony, you have been amazing. Volunteer of the Month ...... Community Centrte. 29 Hughes St Potts Point Park Parade, Zetland. This is a It’s been a while since we had End of Year Get-Together free event. Pat Clarke Phone Geoffrey Turnbull Worship 10am a Volunteer of the Month, so Put Friday December 7 in your Distribution Co-ordinator (02) 8004 1490. Rev Graham Long 9358 6996 introducing Tony Hogan, who has diaries for our annual End of Year [email protected] Email [email protected]
YOUR LOCAL MEMBERS
Tanya Plibersek MP Malcolm Turnbull MP Jamie Parker MP Ron Hoenig MP Alex Greenwich Carmel Tebbutt MP Federal Member for Sydney Federal Member for Wentworth State Member for Balmain State Member for Heffron State Member for Sydney State Member for Marrickville 150 Broadway, Broadway Level 1/5a Bronte Rd, Bondi Junction 112a Glebe Point Rd, Glebe Shop 117, 747 Botany Rd, Rosebery 58 Oxford St, Paddington 244 Illawarra Rd, Marrickville NSW 2007 NSW 2022 NSW 2037 NSW 2018 NSW 2021 NSW 2204 T: 02 9379 0700 T: 02 9369 5221 T: 02 9660 7586 T: 02 9699 8166 T: 02 9360 3053 T: 02 9558 9000 F: 02 9379 0701 F: 02 9369 5225 F: 02 9660 6112 F: 02 9699 8222 F: 02 9331 6963 F: 02 9558 3653 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 16 November 2012 Swimming – skills for life
Andrew Collis drowning, the society says. Julie Patterson has been teaching kids All primary students should to swim since qualifying in June as an take compulsory swimming lessons Austswim instructor. She teaches children to arrest the “alarming” increase aged 2 to 6 years. “What I really enjoy in drowning deaths among young about the teaching is the trust of the people, the Royal Life Saving Society children,” she said. “I had a couple of says. The Sydney Morning Herald’s girls in the class the other day who’d Jonathan Swan reported recently that never swum before. They were crying the federal government is considering most of the lesson but at the very end submissions on water safety for the they started to enjoy the experience of new national curriculum. Peter Garrett, being in the water, chasing the plastic the Minister for School Education and turtles and playing. Those few minutes Early Childhood, said: “I believe that reminded me why I got into this – to all students should have access to encourage children to have confidence water safety lessons and be taught in the water, to enjoy swimming and swimming skills, but it’s important to develop skills early in life.” Ms Patterson remember that water safety isn’t just recommends where possible that children up to schools.” be introduced to the water from as early as six months of age. The National Drowning Report, Rob Bradley, chief executive of the released by the Royal Life Saving Society Royal Life Saving Society, said: “The Fun in the pool, with safety Photo: Courtesy of the NCIE last month, found 45 drowning deaths statistics are calling out to us. About one in 2011-12 among 15- to 24-year-olds, in five Australian teenagers are entering Excellence in Redfern has recently the “Aqua Safe” program to progress safety and personal development. The a 25 per cent increase on the five-year high school unable to swim 50 metres or installed a protective shade-cloth over children’s skills. The Aqua Safe program NCIE has classes for beginner swimmers, average. More than 600,000 young adults even float for two minutes.” its outdoor pool. The Eora Learn to is implemented throughout Australia stroke correction and masters training in that age group are at “extreme risk” of The National Centre of Indigenous Swim curriculum at the NCIE uses and focuses on stroke correction, water (ncie.org.au). S Pirates of St Peters SSH Zahra, and the club continues to flourish. Gary has since been appointed In 2009 baseball re-emerged as a local the Executive Director of the RHBL sport available to junior players with Hawks, the league in which the Red Sox the inception of the Redfern Red Sox. plays. The league extends from Sydney With seed finance from the City of to Berowra, the Coast to Parramatta. Sydney and the Indigenous Sport Gary says the role is rewarding and and Recreation program, as well as challenging, and he is currently working direction from informed locals like with Autism Spectrum, starting a senior Deb Evans from Neighbourhood social weekly league for adults called Services and Shane Philips from Hawkball and a winter junior T-Ball Tribal Warrior, the club finished league. its first season with three teams Next season, in response to demand, and its first representative player, Gary is forming another club in the Aaron J. Flood. area – the St Peters Pirates. He will start with one team of 5 and 6 year olds In its second season the club grew to (the RazSkulls), offering a transition four teams and the Under 8s coached from playground to sports field league Lewis Jetta paints a boomerang for the Kool Kids Club Photo: Courtesy of Sydney Swans Media by Darren Moss won the club’s first with lots of fun and games, and little premiership. The club has since been competition. involved with the Active After Schools Petersham, which celebrates 113 Community (AASC), providing baseball years in 2013, is also looking to establish Swans combine for Kool Kids basics to Outside Hours School junior teams if appropriate resources Care Centres at Newtown Primary, can be found (contact murphy015@ SSH programs for kids aged 7-13 years in stars, including Goodes and Jetta. Erskineville Public, Glenmore Road yahoo.com.au). South Sydney. The program aims to Kool Kids Club team leader Lucy Public, Rozelle Primary and others. This season the Red Sox has had Sydney Swans pair Adam Goodes and encourage children, most of whom are Butler said the fundraiser aims to raise The Red Sox organised a School to limit its recruitment efforts due to Lewis Jetta teamed up for some terrific Aboriginal, to stay in primary school and $30,000, which is only a small slice of Against School Gala between Newtown available funds and resources. The goals in season 2012, and now they’re transition successfully into high school. the $250,000 needed to keep the program and Glenmore Road schools and Red Sox boasts more than 60 per cent aiming to combine for another – to help Kids can only take part in the alive. “All Sorts Gym & Indoor Sports in a friendly match between Rozelle Indigenous players but some kids are keep the doors open at Weave’s Kool program – which provides swimming, Alexandria has been fantastic in support Primary and another baseball club, still missing out. Anybody who can Kids Club in Waterloo. sports, cooking, arts, dancing and music of the Kool Kids Club. It provides the kids and the Sydney Blue Sox, NSW’s only help with sponsorship or volunteering activities – if they turn up to school. with free swimming lessons and indoor professional team, gave all the players (particularly drivers) would be very Goodes and Jetta have personally The Kool Kids Club is facing the sports as well as sponsoring the sailing a free game pass to the upcoming welcomed. Please contact Dominic painted and signed boomerangs to be prospect of closing its doors after its program. We’re really looking forward Australian League Series. For their Zahra on 0425 209 179. S auctioned off on November 21 to help Government funding was recently to the fundraising auction and having efforts, the Red Sox and founder Gary raise some much-needed money for Kool diverted to assist younger age groups. the support of the Sydney Swans is just Fishburn were awarded Certificates of If you have a RazSkull (born 2007-08) Kids Club which is a program of Weave To help out, All Sorts Gym & Indoor brilliant,” Ms Butler said. S Appreciation by the Australian Sports you think would enjoy a fun Saturday Youth Family Community. Sports is holding Swim, Sport, Sail – a Commission. morning sport activity next summer The Kool Kids Club is a prevention fundraising auction featuring hand For more information on Weave’s Kool Gary stepped down from the (2013-14) or think you would like to and early intervention initiative providing painted boomerangs by well-known Kids Club, please contact Lucy Butler at president’s role, which was taken up be involved in any way, register your free after-school and holiday activity Aboriginal artists, celebrities and sports [email protected] or call 0420 531 699. by a young Indigenous man, Dominic interest at [email protected] .
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