Spring 2020 ear nd y 42

ISSUE 190

THE NORTH & WEST MELBOURNE NEWS IS PRODUCED BY VOLUNTEERS AT THE CENTRE: Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne Inc www.centre.org.au A stitch in Pandemic affects time behind the mask policing in the crusader inner suburbs Anna Huynh Nicole Pereira masks. “If they can’t pay the fine, eana Eddington began stitching it generally becomes a debt,” he says. Dgowns to protect front-line A policeman’s lot is not a happy Craig is keenly aware that healthcare workers during the first one (Pirates of Penzance) homelessness isn’t easily solved. lockdown. “It’s a long-term project for housing In the harsher stage-four lockdown, ergeant Craig McIntosh can services. But most of our local the new North Melbourne resident Sgive the lie to that old line. A homeless are reasonably easy to talk found another way to help her policeman for 14 years and now to, and we run several operations community. She turned her sewing based at Melbourne West Police and support programs that involve skills to making masks, and her Station, he loves his work. “I dreaded chatting with them,” he says. efforts have seen her turn out well a desk job and I didn’t want to be He is heartened that recent COVID- over 700. doing the same things day in and related offences are generally milder It all started in her own apartment day out,” he says. than the occasional mayhem of complex. Deana was taking a craft At Melbourne West, Craig’s beat Friday and Saturday nights. “Much group in her unit when the news extends across the CBD and includes of our work has been on hotel of a second lockdown hit. She North and West Melbourne. “There’s quarantine, monitoring arrivals, quickly went upstairs to hand out no doubt city policing is very checking lockdown road blocks, and extra masks for the people in her different to suburban policing. My compliance checks at home.” Louis XVII helps Deana stitch masks. class. That small action immediately area rates high regarding alcohol- Police actions during lockdown are fuelled violence, protests and sparked a bigger idea. at once. I ended up making a whole less extreme than those portrayed homelessness,” he says. “Oh, many people are going to new batch of masks just for them,” on social and general media. “We With pubs and bars shut because need masks, I’ve already got the she says proudly. only arrest people if they fail to of COVID-19 restrictions, alcohol- pattern and I know how to make She admits she has virtually never provide their details. If they do as related violence has dropped it,” Deana thought to herself. Then, left the building since she threw requested, they are free to go,” Craig sharply. Also, the ugliness of street rather than keep the idea bottled herself totally into mask making. says. homelessness has been reduced as up, she posted an offer on the ‘North “I love doing it as it’s kept me busy This friendly cop smiles as he councils have taken on responsibility Melbourne Good Karma Network’ and productive. If I wasn’t doing it, recalls creative excuses from people and have placed the homeless in Facebook group. I’d be sitting around doing nothing,” caught without a mask. “One man vacant buildings or in budget hotels. “I put up a notice saying I’m going she says. claimed he had a long beard and This move of many homeless from to make masks and, if you want Deana is first to admit she couldn’t it was getting in the way. Another the streets to safer and sheltered one, just contact me,” she says. have immersed herself in the masks fellow was fined for being too housing has been a welcome result Immediately, 150 orders poured in without family help. Husband Grant far from home, then next day he of the lockdown. However, Craig and, without knowing it, Deana had Deana’s colourful masks. has been her right-hand man, returned and copped another fine.” mentions that homeless people embarked on a journey that has looking after delivery issues. And can still incur fines for not wearing Nicole Pereira writes regularly for the News. filled her days in lockdown. her standard poodle, Louis XVII, has Her post had somehow reached That first Facebook post led to the happily taken on the role of greeting the healthcare workers at the Royal floodgates opening. Soon, supportive recipients during mask pick up. Melbourne Hospital. Soon, Deana SPECIAL FEATURES: Good Karma network members Deanna’s crusade began at the received an unexpected call. “A lovely were donating fabrics and elastic hair time of the forced lockdown of the Melbourne City Council election: lady from the Royal Melbourne said bands for the masks’ earpieces. North Melbourne high-rise towers. one of their professors, who was “People were buying me gifts of Since then she has sewn virtually What you need to know about the candidates wearing a disposable mask, had flowers, chutney and chocolate. I without a break. “The numbers are broken out in hives and was forced was feeling the love and it was really big, but so is the joy. Okay, I admit I – Pages 13–16 to go home,” she recalls. nice. It was so gratifying,” she smiles. sometimes have an afternoon nap.” However, she never suspected that Deana was asked if she could help The Centre: Annual report to the community her talents would be called on well out and provide her own beautifully Anna Huynh is a new contributor to beyond her usual contacts. stitched masks. “Of course I said ‘yes’ the News. – Pages 23-26 INSIDE Page 6 Page 7 Page 22 Page 28 2 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Nicole Pereira communities in dire need when the government failed to,” she says. allis Hamilton works at Inner Busy time for legal service Inner Melbourne Community WMelbourne Community Legal Legal has since continued to reach on Queensberry Street in North and Human Services (DHHS) to It became apparent that there out to clients to check on how they Melbourne. She started at the ensure residents received food and were few policies in place to offer are coping and to see if they need centre in 2018 as a volunteer, soon essential medications. “While we the support required. Wallis lists any legal assistance. became a paralegal and is now a met some roadblocks, the legal some of the problems residents The legal centre welcomes graduate lawyer, specialising in centre was able, in conjunction faced. the Victorian Ombudsman’s fines and tenancy law. with other organisations, to set up “DHHS had communicated that investigation into the lockdown After working at home for six a help-line for people to call at any they could be relocated into hotels, and will work closely with him months, she says the legal centre time during the crisis,” she explains. but we found this hard to arrange and with community members to has adapted well to COVID-19. It Wallis played a key role in being a in practice, which often led to other ensure his recommendations are has continued to serve its clients, ‘legal observer’ at the towers. She family members falling ill when self- implemented. including those residents trapped worked with the many volunteers isolation wasn’t possible.” in the recent local high-rise who brought food supplies into the Wallis explains that DHHS’s lack Nicole Pereira writes regularly for the News. lockdown. building, negotiating and liaising of coordination and effective “More than 3,000 people were with them at that fraught time, management resulted in Want to know more? subject to detention orders with while hundreds of police monitored community members volunteering If you have recently received a one tower closed for 14 days, and the situation. to supply residents with basic COVID-19 related fine or you require no-one was allowed to leave,” Wallis “Many of our centre’s clients who necessities during lockdown. any general legal assistance, please says. needed food and medicine felt very “The volunteer groups did Wallis Hamilton of Inner Melbourne contact Inner Melbourne Community Much of her work involved liaising alone and unable to communicate incredible work, implementing Community Legal. Legal on 9328 1885. with the Department of Health with DHHS,” she says. efficient processes and assisting Trip to Peru ends in quarantine

Laura Misale that rich, but we realised that if we “You could get groceries didn’t jump in, we would miss out.” delivered, but we had nothing ack in March, North Melbourne After an anxious night, she woke to cook with. Some people were Blibrarian Heather McKay was up at four and realised she would toasting bagels on an iron,” Heather enjoying dinner in Lima, the capital just have to pay up. “I had to load laughs. of Peru, at the end of her 14-day up the credit card and call in a few Like the organised librarian she South American holiday. friends,” she grimaces. is, she passed the time profitably In the background, the TV news On the morning of the flight, two with some good Audiobooks. was being delivered in Spanish. weeks after lockdown began, a bus “The first Harry Potter book was a It was only next morning that picked her and her fellow travellers favourite. I also caught up with all Heather realised the country had up from their hotels at six o’clock. Dervla McTiernan’s crime novels,” been placed in tight lockdown. “I They filed into the bus, masks on she recalls. went to the downstairs reception and luggage in tow, and soon were “Eventually, my travel agent and was told that we had just 24 boarding the final scheduled flight booked me on a Virgin flight to hours to get out of the country,” she out. Melbourne. Then the TV news says. However, by then, it was too “Some people had paid $10,000 reported that Virgin was cancelling late to leave. for first-class seats, but didn’t even all flights from Sydney except for While the lockdown confined get to sit in them because everyone one each day. Heather inside her small hotel rushed onto the plane and grabbed “People have since asked how I room, it couldn’t dampen the whichever seat they wanted,” remained so calm. I say that I really sense of community that emerged Heather says. don’t know, but that was one time among her fellow travellers. On arrival in Sydney, she was when I just about lost it,” she says “Within a day there was a Facebook bussed to hotel quarantine, where ruefully. message group and a WhatsApp she spent the next two weeks. Heather eventually boarded message group for Australians Each morning was like groundhog a flight home to Melbourne, stranded in Peru,” she says. day. Security guards would deliver nearly a month after arriving in After three days, Heather found food to her door, she would wait Peru. “Lockdown here is paradise a possible way home. A Brisbane 10 seconds for them to leave, then compared to what I endured over travel company was offering a she would pick up her lukewarm, there,” she smiles. charter flight to Sydney via Santiago scrambled-tofu breakfast. Laura Misale writes regularly for the News. in Chile for $5,000. “None of us was The view of the empty Lima streets from Heather’s hotel window.

MELBOURNE FEDERAL MEMBER FOR North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 3 Lockdown changes our shopping streetscape

Geoff Pound traffic? Some shops with upstairs overcomes the need to board and downstairs might have room up windows, and it reduces the his time last year many local for studio space for work and possibility of vandalism similar to Tbusinesses were struggling to gallery space to display their wares. that suffered by the Royal Exchange survive and several ‘For Lease’ signs Renew Australia is one such group Hotel on the corner of Victoria were appearing, especially along filling empty spaces with potential and Peel streets, which has had its Errol and Victoria streets in North traders seeking to trial a new windows smashed and the door and West Melbourne. business idea. They have partnered broken down. Many local business owners said with the Docklands Spaces project The new business owners might high rents were throttling their to provide 24 new businesses the be on a rolling monthly lease if ability to make ends meet. opportunity to try out their ideas there are paying tenants who Since the onslaught of COVID-19 across gallery, studio, office, retail emerge, wanting the space for the and the resultant lockdowns, and training spaces with minimal long term. The hope is that the new pandemic restrictions have taken a overheads. occupants trialling their business sledgehammer to our local shops Renew Australia has also might enjoy success and become and cafes, bringing many more conducted projects in the dying long-term paying tenants. shopkeepers to declare that their shopping strips of Newcastle and For our community, the presence business has been ‘corona-ed’. Geelong and it reports there are 40 of new businesses might spark a Hopefully, one silver lining to creative projects and businesses vibrancy to replace the doom and the pandemic crisis will be the looking for space in the heart of gloom that has been left in our return of shop rental costs to a Wollongong. shopping strips by the pandemic. reasonable level. The plan offers new business Wouldn’t it be superb to witness If, post-virus, you were offered one owners space to work and to an explosion of creativity and of the vacant shops free of charge, display their products, with few business confidence that brings how would you use it? Would you overheads other than paying about a sustained renewal of our shift your cottage industry out of the utilities and maintaining local shopping strips? your backyard onto Errol Street the property. Geoff Pound is a local resident and For owners of the buildings, their where you would have more space, minister of the West Melbourne Baptist some camaraderie with other shops are open and attractive, Church. budding traders, and greater foot rather than being closed. This St Michael’s students learnt their lesson from first lockdown

Steven Hubbard round of remote learning were carefully them by recording a video explaining each saw lots of wigs and dyed locks, and even reviewed early in term three, and they activity, and they were able to watch my some shocking-pink creations. On Superhero t Michael’s Primary School wasn’t enabled us to deliver an even better program instructions on Google Classroom. It worked Day, Superman, Batman and Catwoman Sexpecting to be put back into a second in the second lockdown. so well,” she says. turned up and joined in the fun. lockdown. However, we had already learnt Visual arts teacher Luisa Vivarelli was All staff used Zoom meetings daily to Steven Hubbard is deputy principal at St Michael’s. some very useful lessons from the first delighted with the improvements she was connect with their classes and to run small shutdown. able to introduce. targeted teaching groups for reading, writing After term two, we had sought feedback “After realising the first time round that and maths. Across the board, the school kept from our staff, students and parents via an many students didn’t have access to materials, to a normal timetable. We even held a pre- online survey. Their responses to our first I organised some packs for them to take school Monday morning assembly, which home. These included materials such as wool, enabled the entire school community – staff, paper and cardboard so everyone would have students, parents – to hear from principal all they need to create their art,” she says. Denise. Luisa also built into her usual Zoom sessions Outside the normal curriculum, we built in the chance for the children to share with the two innovative sessions. rest of their class the art that they had created. Wellbeing leader Erin Jenkins organised “I was able to maintain close contact with Wellbeing Wednesday to break up our normal school week. The program was shaped around pens-down, screen-free activities designed to care for the children’s anxiety levels and emotional health. And also, of course, to foster a bit of fun. “Each week our cooking activity had a different focus. One week, we had the students preparing pancakes, another week they got into banana smoothies. We also offered mindfulness exercises and fun science experiments like magic milk,” Erin says. By the end of the week, it was time to wind down with Fun Friday as staff and students Jude and Cooper making pasta. Stellarose with rainbow paper chain. Pranav making a banana smoothie. joined in on various themes. Crazy Hair Day

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Margaret’s century of learning and life

Flora Sciarra On their walks, she stops to chat other seniors who are not. “I feel to other dog walkers and enjoys for older people who haven’t r Margaret Bowman OAM is hearing about what is happening in developed a competence with D100 years old, lives alone and the local community. modern devices. They are dreadfully enjoys life to the full. After arriving A former politics lecturer at disadvantaged and cut off from so in Australia from her native England Monash, Margaret has always loved much,” she says. 60 years ago, she lived near Ballarat intellectual pursuits. Still as sharp as Margaret owns an iPhone, iPad then in the eastern suburbs before a tack, she keeps her mind active as and a computer. As well as using coming to North Melbourne 30 a member of the University of the Zoom, she resorts to What’s App to years ago. Third Age (U3A) and takes regular keep in touch with her large family, Margaret has led a fascinating French classes. both here in Australia and overseas. life and isn’t allowing lockdown to “I do a French class because I have “It’s so useful. I can keep in touch slow her down. She keeps her body French family. My great-grandsons with my grandchildren and great- active with a seniors exercise class are French and bilingual, and they grandchildren without stirring from via Zoom once a week. “I used to do live outside Geneva,” Margaret says. my desk,” she says. tai chi until recently, but it’s since Closer to home, she is an active After three decades as a local, been suspended,” she says. member of the North Melbourne she simply loves the area. “North When not on Zoom, she does Library and the Hotham History Melbourne is a marvellous place to warm-up exercises and enjoys Project. She also belonged, albeit live. Very, very friendly people. The heading out for walks with her briefly, to Errol’s Angels community facilities are splendid. What more dog, Wally. She says she doesn’t choir. “I can’t sing so it didn’t go too could you wish for?” know what she would do without well,” she laughs. Flora Sciarra writes regularly for the News. him. “He’s very sweet natured and The lively centenarian is proficient a lovely companion,” she smiles. at technology, but worries about Margaret is fighting fit at 100. Local Rotary Club turns a new Page to start its year

Manjula Pragasam rise apartments. We were able to support the homeless. Our club will contact nearby Rotary clubs and provide support for St Mary’s as well orth Melbourne Rotary joined in donating money to the as our ongoing support for the local Nfollowed the tradition of Somalian Women’s Development Ozanam House in Flemington Road. Rotary clubs around the world and Association to enable them to buy A recent club highlight was the changed its president at the start and deliver food to residents. induction of new member Dr Ida of the new financial year. The club This support has since expanded Whiteman, a local North Melbourne held its ‘changeover meeting’ in July to communities outside the high- paediatric cardiologist. Through at the Mercure Hotel. rise blocks. We became aware of her contacts, we are trying to get a At the time, face-to-face functions a number of families who were doctor out from Timor Leste to train were allowed in limited numbers, without resources and, as arrivals here in paediatric cardiology so which had just been reduced from from New Zealand, were not they can return home to a country 50 to 20. Then, just two days before eligible for government support. that currently lacks anyone with our meeting, some postcodes were As a result, we ramped up our food similar skills. further isolated. We proceeded deliveries. We welcome new members to with the event but, as some of our Our club was able to supplement assist us in our community work. attendees were affected, we also these food packs by gaining access There is no shortage of good work arranged to have it on Zoom. to a pallet of packs that were going to be done. The club overcame all the related as food relief to the Philippines. As Manjula Pragasam is treasurer of North challenges and the function proved we now can’t get the supplies over Melbourne Rotary. to be an outstanding success. At the there, we decided to make use of end of the night, Neville Page took them here. over the presidency from outgoing Want to know more? We have continued to feature To find our more about North leader George Zindilis. interesting speakers at our weekly With the changeover complete, Melbourne Rotary Club, check out the Zoom meetings. Recently we heard website http://rotarynorthmelbourne. the club sprang into action and from St Mary’s House of Welcome’s began helping to provide food to org.au/ or contact Neville Page on Robina Bradley about the 0414673611 or [email protected] New Rotary president Geoff Page (left) takes over from George Zindilis. residents locked down in local high- outstanding work they are doing to 6 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

OUR LOCKED DOWN LIFE – VIEWS FROM THE INSIDE Time to focus on the positives Sinking into guilty pleasures

Elise Cara to give him lots of extra cuddles, and he was Shannon Colee For a while, I thought I could see the end deliriously happy when he was able to go on in sight. Hope flickered that we might have found Melbourne’s second lockdown much lots of longer walks in the park. he second lockdown turned out very friends over to our house or we might be Imore challenging than the first. Lockdown made me see the bigger picture. Tdifferent to the first one, way back in able to sit down in a coffee shop. Instead, Just as the second one was announced, I As a second-year professional writing student March. I wasn’t too fussed by that one. we have a mandated curfew and we need a was ready to begin transitioning back to my at Swinburne, I had always spent a lot of time Honest to God, my first thought then was permission form if we have to drive to work. normal life, the one I had before. So I was getting to campus by bus and train. Soon, I ‘Good’. I’m a homebody so being able to say, We have to wear masks that make me feel pretty disappointed when I found out that I was wondering how I could use this bonus “Yes, we’ll catch up soon”, and then not have as if I can’t breathe, and when I go to the had to be restricted at home again. extra time to my own advantage. to follow up was a true blessing. supermarket, I spend most of my time there However, I soon made a conscious decision I realised I could use that time for study and For those initial weeks, I truly lived the trying to avoid people. to focus on the positives and to make I chose to think strategically. I looked at my introvert dream. When not working, I was But maybe that’s what this lockdown is something good come out of this experience, study plan and saw that if I overloaded on catching up on reading and watching all about. If the first lockdown was the one perhaps something that could create a lasting units this semester – taking five instead of documentaries. I was cooking healthy meals where I colour coordinated my wardrobe, change in my post-lockdown life. But first I four – I could graduate mid-year next year. A and planning out how I could use this time to kept a sleep routine and ate meals at the allowed myself some time to mourn the 2020 whole six months earlier than I expected! better myself. appropriate time, then maybe this second that could have been. So far, it’s going well. I’m managing the study So, when we all started to see the writing one is where my I sink into my occasional Then I began savouring the things that load and am glad that I have the time to finish on the wall and knew a second and harsher guilty pleasures like a warm bath. brought me joy. In the morning, I loved the all my work. It has made me view lockdown lockdown was coming, I thought I was Maybe I’m allowed to watch the real-life crispness of the cold air in my room. After a differently. Rather than feeling trapped and prepared. It turned out the joke was on me soap opera of The Real Housewives and to eat quick check of my phone’s weather app, I was restricted, I now see it as an opportunity to do because this second-wave lockdown has Doritos out of the bag. And if I want to watch thankful I could stay in bed until the heater something than has set me up for the future. broken me down. House Hunters endlessly and to eat straight warmed the house. Much better than having I know that in a year’s time, when I apply for When I’m not at work I’m probably watching out of plastic containers so as to reduce my to brave the cold and wind outside. full-time work and start to earn some money, The Real Housewives – of any city in the world. washing up, then what is stopping me? The day brought its own consolations. I I’ll be thankful how I chose to spend my time It is now our sad reality that watching women Being in lockdown is hard and I’ve found was grateful to be able to spend more time in lockdown. argue in New Jersey, Atlanta, Beverly Hills and there isn’t one singular right way to cope. If with my family. We’ve always been close, I’m already glad I got to spend some extra Auckland is the closest we can come to travel mine involves talking to my dog about Teresa but playing a game of Uno was never on our time with my family. And Charlie had no anytime in the near future. Giudice being sentenced to jail as I wait for menu until we were all stuck inside looking complaints about all that extra attention. The first lockdown seemed fun and different, my Uber Eats delivery in day-old pyjamas, for a way to pass the time. a way to recharge without having to use my then it’s nobody’s business but mine. My cheeky shih tzu-poodle cross, Charlie, Elise Cara is a new contributor to the News. annual leave. This second lockdown feels long Shannon Colee is a new contributor to the News. certainly enjoyed lockdown. I had more time and permanent and depressing. The morning commute from bedroom to kitchen table bewildered for a few minutes, wondering how found community cases, and France became Suzie Luddon accommodate the extra curves better, but to separate work from not-work. engulfed in a summer second wave, trapping my blue ones add a touch of colour and look But not for long, when I remind myself that the holidaying Brits who can only return on Another day in lockdown / a bit dressier when I venture outside for the packed trains are a thing of the past, at least pain of quarantine. Stage four in Melbourne / allotted hour. for now. Gratefully appreciating this small When will we be able to leave our postcode, Appreciate the small things. And which mask to wear? The funky fabric blessing, I do some stretching or drawing or let alone venture to our regions, interstate, or ppreciate the small things. Do they one I bought on eBay, or the serviceable look outside at the garden. It’s my time now. beyond our shores to distant places? Ainclude the one hour of daily outdoor single-use ones that are less about fashion Such are the decisions made in lockdown. As our world has shrunk, our vocabulary has exercise allowed? Or the weekly solo grocery and more about being breathable during the Our lives are smaller, our choices are narrower, grown: flatten the curve; social distancing; shopping? daily walk? and small things become bigger. I’ve become we’re going into stage four; the new normal; Or maybe it’s the corona calories that have Should I wear jewellery today? No, too much an amateur ornithologist and watch the turn on your microphone, I can see you but I slowly sneaked up on me. They’re allowed as effort and I don’t have any Zoom meetings. birds with avid interest. I’ve also become an can’t hear you! long as I can still fit into my new work uniform How about washing my hair? Nah, maybe amateur epidemiologist, checking on the Thrown into a revolution of sorts wrought – jeans. I have blue ones and black ones and tomorrow, it’ll survive another day tied back. daily numbers and anxiously willing them to by a tiny virus, will our world ever be the alternate them depending on how much After the morning commute from bedroom go down to zero. same again? effort I feel like expending each day on my to kitchen table, and the day spent following I despair at those among us who refuse to attire. the sun around the house with my laptop conform to the rules, potentially consigning Suzie Luddon writes regularly for the News. My black jeans are stretchy so they and to-do list, I log off, shut down and stand us all to further time in iso. But New Zealand North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 7

Grade 3s meet the chick challenge

Jaimi Darwell To get things rolling, real-time hatching of the teachers set up a chicken chicks. “They were so excited hich came first: the incubator and a brooding as the live streaming allowed Wchicken or the egg? house in the classroom. them to learn about life The Grade 3s at North After adding a few eggs, it cycles as the chicks emerged Melbourne Primary School was just a short wait to see from their eggs,” teacher Kim have been grappling with what would emerge. To the Ryan said. this eternal teaser during children’s delight, it turned The children were then lockdown. out to be fluffy little chickens. asked to create their own life Stage four restrictions sent The students, locked down cycle and soon they came Zeina’s life cycle. most of North Melbourne at home, were able to tune in up with movies, collages Primary School’s students The children had to send won out. “I’m so proud of conundrum. The Grade each day to Chick Cam to see and comics. “That was the back to remote learning. their life-cycle research back what we did. We saved Atto,” 3 junior biologists (ages their little feathery friends best part. I made my own Grade 3 accepted the to Atto so she could qualify Kevin said. eight and nine) have been live-streamed via WebEx. life cycle on paper and then I challenge of using online as an officer and avoid being studying living things, life They were thrilled as they animated one on Keynote,” a Jaimi Darwell is Grade 3 team technologies to both banished from Zeta Canis. cycles, food chains and food watched the life cycles. beaming Kazuma said. leader at North Melbourne continue their education and They took the task on Primary School. webs. And what could be “The chicks were so cute Remote learning requires to maintain a connection to board and their hard work more fun than studying how and so fluffy. I wish they students to be motivated their physical classrooms. eggs hatch and turn into could stay in our classrooms and to engage with their Back to that chicken-egg chickens? forever,” Milly said. own learning. Teachers were Ikram became a keen pleased with the curiosity watcher. “I am always the children brought to logging on to Chick Cam. I their life-cycles study and ended up watching them all the critical thinking and day,” he admitted. problem-solving skills they Samuel brought a more showed. scientific view. “I was It was also a lot of fun. interested to see how the Amazingly, the Grade 3s chickens would find their were contacted by Atto, food and how much they an alien who lives on an would eat,” he said. unknown planet called Zeta Teachers were delighted Canis. She sought their help that the students were so in her quest to become a Kazuma’s life cycle. absorbed in watching the science officer. Sarah’s life cycle. Simonds College students step up their pace

Robert Anastasio VEC participants use the Strava actually competed in our school’s physical activity among the boys in app on their phones to record cross country competition. Knox these difficult days. It has helped to imonds College students and the various levels of activity they house was awarded the trophy after ensure they are keeping fit as well Sstaff were in full running mode complete each day. Their exercise students covered an impressive as maintaining social contact with before the second lockdown hit. regimes can include running, total of 1,261 kilometres,” head of PE their teachers and classmates,” he Many were out doing some serious cycling or walking. They record their Hayden Wallis says. says. training each day, and some distances and times, which are then Simonds’ innovative virtual Students Sebastian Gronow, had completed their own half shared with other club members. exercise project has created a great Isaac Molinaro and Nicholas Tu are marathon. The school has been able to build sense of camaraderie among staff keen participants. College captain Then the stage four restrictions students’ virtual performances into and students as they award each Sebastian has set a high standard arrived. However, our Simonds normal school life. All distances other ‘kudos’ for their performances. for his classmates. “I haven’t done boys have shown that lockdown recorded on Strava win points Even principal Peter Riordan reports any skipping since primary school doesn’t mean you’ve got to be for their house and accumulate that he has been pounding the but now I do a testing 30-minute literally locked down. In fact, 190 towards the Carmody Cup, our pavement on weekends. workout every afternoon,” he says. boys and some teachers have kept annual award for intra- and inter- The college’s director of sport, Robert Anastasio is deputy principal at connected and fit via VEC, our school sport. Sean Westaway, is thrilled with the Simonds College. virtual exercise club. “In lockdown, VEC participants initiative’s success. “It is promoting Sebastian Gronow skips with style.

Keeping fit at Simonds. 8 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

MELBOURNE ANY SYMPTOMS GET TESTED

It’s important to get tested for coronavirus at the first sign of any symptom and stay home until you get your result.

• Melbourne Pathology - North Melbourne • West Melbourne - CoHealth

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Bookings are required at some testing locations.

Getting tested means you keep yourself, your friends, family, workplace and your community safe. It’s not over yet.

For more details visit vic.gov.au/CORONAVIRUS

Authorised and published by the Victorian Government, 1 Treasury Place, Melbourne North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 9 Arts House explores our world

Sarah Rowbottam Hosted by artist, designer and includes what we can learn from game-maker Lee Shang Lun, the First Nations people who have rts House is a City of Refuge Talks Series is a free three- survived waves of colonialism, and AMelbourne contemporary part series bringing together the chronically ill who live in these performance space, housed in the people who might not normally conditions daily. North Melbourne Town Hall, where collaborate in a crisis. In the final episode, we face artists and audiences gather to find Each 60-minute episode offers forward. new creative frontiers. snapshots into how we prepare From seismic shifts in government Of course, COVID-19 has for, live in, and recover from a and communities to the relief of dramatically changed what we pandemic. finally hugging a friend, there will do. Every year since 2016, Arts The first episode dives into the come a time when we blink and House has brought together artists, minds of thinkers who knew this adjust our eyes to the new world experts and emergency services was coming. around us and we again sweat to our usual town hall venue to It touches on the insights gleaned amongst many on dance floors. explore the biggest climate ‘What during the fictional pandemic For the series, three incredible Ifs?’ of our time. exercise at our town-hall home First Nations musicians – Kee’ahn, With stage four restrictions in 2018 to the fascinating things Allara and Alice Skye – were meaning the unimaginable became disease and medical experts get up commissioned to write new songs Refuge 2018 Pandemic, Arts House. Photograph: Sarah Walker a reality, we took a leap into the to behind closed doors. in response to their experiences of digital world. This has enabled us to The second episode brings the pandemic and to perform live. that offers advice on how you can Want to know more? share some insights with you and together artists and experts to Artist Jen Rae provides a start preparing at home with your Refuge Talks Series episodes are to take you beyond the headlines explore the ways we can connect weekly demonstration from her loved ones. free for streaming and include open and into the worlds – and the living when isolation forces us apart, and personalised Future Proof Survival captions and Auslan interpreting. Sarah Rowbottam is producer at Arts rooms – of those who know what how a crisis forces us to reframe Guide, sharing practical survival tips https://www.artshouse.com.au/ House. counts most in a time of crisis. how we care for each other. It developed with her family, ourprograms/refuge-talks-series/

he NWMA’s annual general North and West company votes by the CoM; the lack The gifts bring much joy to Friends of Moonee Ponds Creek Tmeeting normally takes place Melbourne of optional preferential voting; lack deserving families. The planned Arden and Macaulay in April but it was postponed until Association of wards; rules around donations; construction areas straddle the August this year because of the lord mayor and deputy lord mayor West Gate Tunnel Project creek. With a projected doubling of COVID-19 restrictions. elections; and voting qualifications. Our representative was able to residents for both Kensington and Using Zoom, the meeting kept to attend only one meeting in 2019 North Melbourne, the creek is a vital a strict time schedule, helped by Melbourne North Police because of a delay in the enrolment part of the open-space strategy. Community Consultative the prior circulation of the annual process. Before that October In 2019 the Australian Institute Committee (PCCC) report for 2019, which contained meeting, the Association had of Landscape Architects gave a reports from members who Representing the North several concerns, which remain. planning award to the CoM for represent the Association in various Melbourne, Carlton, Kensington One is the impact of the the City’s commissioned plan. No organisations. Some highlights and Parkville communities, the completed West Gate Tunnel ongoing budget appears to have from these and updates follow. PCCC met bi-monthly at the Project (WGTP) on vehicle flow into been allocated to the development Wreckyn Street police station North and West Melbourne, an of this plan. CoRBA (Coalition of Resident and government legislation with then- during 2019. estimated additional 9000 vehicles The creek continues to suffer from Business Associations) Melbourne minister Adem Somyurek and his The meetings include reports per day. Another is the impact of competing issues in governance, CoRBA Melbourne represents 18 staff. The legislation that had failed on local crime and traffic statistics. the WGTP on Moonee Ponds Creek. with private and public interests resident and business associations to get through the Parliament the Numbers in North Melbourne are The project will introduce three overlapping. Is Moonee Ponds within the City of Melbourne (CoM) year before was significantly revised consistently low, but there is an additional small bridges over the Creek a drain or open space? Are area. in 2019. ongoing problem with theft from creek, but with no plan for noise the conflicting interests in the creek It provides an important sounding A CoRBA delegation met with motor vehicles, often because car abatement for those who walk or resolvable? board for members to discuss issues the minister and his chief of staff owners have left valuables in sight. cycle along the Moonee Ponds Members present at the AGM regarding their relationship with to present a detailed account of Each year the PCCC runs a Creek Trail. voted in favour of waiving NWMA the CoM and an opportunity to concerns CoRBA members held in Christmas Toy and Food Drive. A further concern, shared by membership fees for 2020. follow up on matters that CoRBA is relation to the electoral structure The 2019 drive again attracted the CoM, is that the WGTP will engaged in, which may affect some and processes of the CoM. great support from local people, terminate a new cycling/pedestrian Want to know more? member groups. Among these concerns were: NWMA members being among path onto the west bank of the Email [email protected] or The overarching issue in 2019 was dissatisfaction with the City of those who donated toys and non- creek without providing public visit www.nwma.org.au. dealing with the amended local Melbourne Act; the deeming of perishable food. lighting or rubbish bins.

Temporary Relocation

We are operating from home & will reopen in a new North Melbourne location next year

For all enquiries, contact details are:

Phone: 03 9326 4090 Email: [email protected]

Wherever you want to go you can trust us to get you there 10 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

thief got into our communal laundry. disruptive city. You cause problems with AStolen from the dryer were a red VERY IMPRESSIVE my PTSD. towel, a purple bathmat, seven orange I grew up in small town Renwick, in New bamboo socks, floral corduroy pants, a Zealand’s South Island. Rural quiet and white shirt, a green scarf, five T-shirts of Yes, Mother’s Day has been and gone, solitude is lacking in my life. I really want various colours and five underwearables. way back in May. Here’s a late Mother’s it back. Must visit Dimboola and the Little And I’m still remembering other things that Day message to all the mothers I know. Desert National Park. So cute we could were in there. I’m devastated. I can’t get There are so many of you that I’m not live there. over it. We’ve never had a problem with our sure if I should single out any one of    you – other than my own Mum, that is. laundry before. Vivacious. The word’s been going You are all doing a bloody excellent job.    through my head all night and it kept I hope you all got breakfast in bed from The times are weird. They’re weird waking me up. It’s part of a package someone you love. times indeed. I’ll paraphrase Zahi – vivacious, petite, blonde, husky- Hawas, Egyptian archaeologist and    voiced, gin and tonic drinking. Yes, my Egyptologist extraordinaire, who worked Way back before lockdown, I saw far magnificent Auntie Linda, who died just at archaeological sites in the Nile Delta too many smokers still puffing away device in hand. A very large fine to over a year ago. I’m going to be missing and the Upper Nile Valley. Hawass said outside all three of our local hospitals. discourage you from doing it. you for so many uncountable years. that each day is a day to prepare for the Here’s my suggestion to stop this Vivacious. Now I’ve used it three times.    pyramids to tell you something entirely disgusting behaviour. If you’re on a Will there be anyone else I ever use it for? new about something you were not even northern Melbourne footpath and are Melbourne. I’m over you. I don’t want to be here anymore. You’re too big and Very Impressive shares his views on life in each issue slightly expecting. Makes sense to me. within cooee of a hospital, you should of the News. too busy for me. You’re an annoyingly    get yourself a fine for having a smoking

Spring is time to turn your thoughts to love ... of running

fter months of on-and-off restrictions, I Acan tell you one thing – there are more training. While the usual event offered runners out on the streets of Melbourne MARATHON GIRL medals and an amazing atmosphere, than ever before. Thea Oakes you can still strive for your own personal It seems that many of those who goals. Forget about the bling, just lace up used to frequent gyms have turned to those shoes and get out for a run. and wind, and it’s become my best friend. Personally, I prefer running in the running, the cheapest and safest form of In fact, the stricter lockdown rekindled I recommend investing in one if you don’t evening. However, stopping at traffic exercise in a pandemic. No equipment? my love of running. It reminded me that have one and don’t want to be treated lights with no mask is awkward, and No problem. Running involves minimal it’s not just about pace, PBs and hitting like the enemy with an uncovered face. every police car that drives past has me gear (good shoes are a must), and it’s a targets. It’s also about pure enjoyment I advise keeping your distance from feeling like a criminal on the run (literally). great way to burn off all those isolation and the magic feeling of freedom that walkers and to run on the road if you Even worse is getting home just on the boredom snacks. we delight in when we run. It’s so much have to and when distancing is not edge of the 8pm curfew. When I spot For those of you on the fence about better than being locked inside. possible. a passing car at that pumpkin hour, I taking it up, I highly recommend it. Get out and get running. After all, with With every woman and her dog out on ponder the cost of bail. It has been interesting watching spring now here, all runners’ thoughts are the streets these days, it can be hard to Seasoned runners were looking Melbourne transition into mask wearing, turning to love – of running! avoid others. Maybe try running earlier forward to the Melbourne Marathon, with runners getting a hall pass for their in the morning or in the evening to avoid now officially postponed, but this Thea Oakes writes a regular running column for runs. The ‘buff’ (sometimes called a neck the News. the afternoon sunshine rush. doesn’t mean you have to postpone your gaiter) protects the face from the cold

Learn to sort the wheat from the online chaff (and frauds)

hether you meet at Errol’s for coffee, online persona and proceed to put out Wor further down Errol Street at Bobbie lines. Peel’s bar for something stronger, that first LET’S MAKE A DATE Once they get a bite, they go all out time you meet the potential love of your life is Suzie Luddon to charm the person, probing for their always fraught. vulnerabilities and grooming them with You’ve connected online, either by stories. They are professionals and they searching and swiping or being matched play the long game. the truth about who they are? What if losing their last partner, or the approval by an algorithm. You’ve exchanged a few They’re the ones responsible for the they’re unavailable, or are unhinged that they never got from their mother pleasantries by keyboard, but there’s only heartbreaking stories we hear of people but parading as normal or, worst of all, or father, or a host of other issues that one way to find out if sparks might fly – losing everything or ending up in a South deliberately targeting you in order to free would be better addressed by therapy. and that’s in person. American jail after being convinced to go you of your life savings? Then there are the cheaters, already That means checking each other out, there to pick up a ‘package’. Dating and social media platforms married or attached, but looking for eyeballing, assessing within the first 30 Sadly, there are real dangers lurking create endless opportunities for all sorts someone on the side. Fine if all parties seconds whether this is a depressing in the online dating world, so it pays to of misrepresentation. Mild deception, consent to that, but not fine if deceit is waste of time or whether spending the develop a strong radar for bulls**t. But such as posting a 20-year-old photo is at involved. next 30 minutes together might just lead that doesn’t mean ‘happy ever after’ is a one end of the spectrum, though it’s hard The incels (‘involuntarily celibate’, if to something. It often does, and then we fantasy. For every dud, there’s a genuine to maintain that kind of deception when you didn’t know) and crazies who are can celebrate our personal no-longer- person, and more and more of us are meeting in real life. bearing a grudge and need to take it out celibate story. meeting our significant other online. But what if it looks like a success A bit further along are those who think on someone are scary. They’re down the story, but it really isn’t? What if the they want to meet someone but are really disturbing end of the spectrum with the Suzie Luddon shares her insights into dating in each issue of the News. person you’re meeting isn’t telling seeking a distraction from the pain of catfishers, the ones who create a fake North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 11

‘Money Miller’ loans his name Play follows refugees’ to an early new thoroughfare pathways to belonging John H. Smith Stephen Hatcher Mammad Aidani is working with est Melbourne’s Miller Street RIGHT UP OUR STREET eight other Iranian men on a script Wwas named after Henry Miller, for a play sponsored by the Institute born in 1809 in Derry in Northern Stephen Hatcher of Postcolonial Studies in Curzon Ireland. His father, also named Street. Henry, was a captain in the British The drama, Finding place after chairperson. He was later involved wife Jane lived at lot 25. Benjamin Army. dislocation: refugee pathways to in establishing the state bank and Cowderoy, first chairman of St Kilda Miller Street was named in 1851 belonging in Melbourne, might be served as chairman of directors. Council, bought lot 7. He was also when the first permanent building, a bit of a mouthful, but its simple Intriguingly, he also faced court on government valuer to the young the Benevolent Asylum, opened in message is one of optimism. charges of sheep stealing. state’s railways and probate office. extensive and unspoilt bushland. An acclaimed poet, playwright The first house built on Miller Robert Service (lot 6) saw his son Until 1911, the asylum supported and theatre director in his own Street, on the southern side, late James become Victoria’s twelfth those who were needy, aged, right, Mammad personally in 1858, is thought to have been Premier. James Watson (lot 4), from infirm, disabled or destitute. experienced the dislocation that a wooden house built by Thomas County Armagh, became a local The Miller family had arrived in authoritarian regimes impose on McFarland. A Victorian brick home merchant and politician. John Sydney in 1824 with a boatload their people. “I was born and raised now stands on the site at 63 Miller Harbison (lot 3) became MLA for of convicts. In 1828 Henry junior in poverty in Iran,” he says. Street. North Melbourne and owned Rich started out as a humble clerk in Van The young Mammad was too In 1858, Crown land purchasers in Hill Terrace in Dudley Street. Diemen’s Land. In 1834 he married radical for his repressive homeland. Miller Street were a veritable ‘who’s Just over Abbotsford Street is Eliza Mattinson in Hobart and they “When the Iranian Revolution came who’ of society. John Austin Keens a block granted to the Primitive sailed to the new settlement of in 1979, my hopes for a democratic (lot 10) was a wholesale and retail Methodist Church. The church Writer Mammad Aidani. Melbourne. society were shattered and I went ironmonger. Solomon Solomon is now gone, but the old church Young Henry started work as into exile in Italy,” he says. (lot 9) lived in Melbourne’s Collins manse remains, now known as 660 a moneylender and financier, “Then, when the Iran-Iraq war enables them both to re-engage Street before selling up and sailing Spencer Street. leading him to be known as ‘Money’ began, my home city was invaded. I with their hopes and to develop for America. Miller. In 1849 he launched an Stephen Hatcher writes regularly about lost everything and decided I could skills for a new life.” James Taylor, a master builder, and insurance company and became its local street names for the News. not go back,” he adds, without a Mammad is excited with the trace of bitterness. progress of Finding place after Mammad arrived in Australia dislocation and he is as optimistic in 1982 and attended university as the play’s powerful and uplifting in Brisbane and Melbourne. He theme. “Our hope is that it will be qualified in the diverse disciplines performed in April next year,” he of philosophy, social psychology smiles. and theatre. John H. Smith writes regularly for the “I studied the effect on people of News. trauma and violence that can sap all their energy. Then I began to work Want to know more? with refugees to help them reflect Check updates on how the IPCS on the highlights and challenges of project is finding innovative ways their life experience,” he says. to work with stage-four restrictions “Engaging with them in this at ipcs.org.au/finding-place-after- way deepens their understanding dislocation/ Wide open spaces in Miller Street. Photograph: Stephen Hatcher of their own background and it 12 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Homework support continues THE LIFE OF THE PARTY Ellen Sandell Neysa Charlton Zoom chats in which a tutor will As well as this academic element, help them with hands-on activities Hotham Mission is also offering he pandemic’s second otham Mission’s homework ranging from seed germination to its usual emotional support. We lockdown was hard for all of club is continuing in lockdown T H making a zoetrope. are always available to talk with us. But some North Melbourne to offer ongoing support to Care packages offer other the children during these unusual residents had a uniquely distressing disadvantaged and marginalised possibilities. We send out times, to check if they are still experience. children in North Melbourne. mindfulness and art packs that speaking with their friends or if they I’m talking about the ‘hard’ In better times, the club caters include colouring books, nature have worries they want to open up lockdown of local public housing for around a dozen upper-primary art and origami. The students love about. We provide a safe space. towers. Let me reflect on what was children in the Buncle Street our entertainment packs with Nyala, the mother of one of our highlighted by that lockdown. community centre in weekly diversions including Uno and children, expressed her thanks First, it showed how incredible our sessions run by a coordinator, a Hangman, old favourites like snakes to our homework club. “We got community is. support worker and our volunteer and ladders, exercise dice and even the activities for the girls from When the hard lockdown began tutors. snacks. your club. Thanks so much. I really in July, it was clear that there was While lockdown has forced us Some children feel less appreciate what you do for the little no real plan for getting essential to move to online learning, we comfortable with do-it-yourself ones,” she said. services to people inside the towers. are still able to keep supporting learning so we offer support via Even more pleasing is that the I was flooded with calls and emails the children, both academically regular Zoom contact. Several of children enjoy what we offer. Young from residents concerned about and socially. At the same time as our group didn’t have the required Marco was thrilled by the fizzing how they were going to get basics moving online, we have also sent electronic device to tune in so we tablet and swirling colours in his like food, medicine and nappies. out monthly care packages to all were able to provide them with science experiment. “Making lava One woman I spoke to was our enrolled students. Samsung Galaxy tablets. lamps was so cool. You could see extremely worried about her frail, The care package activities While some students are happy to the bubbles going up and down. So diabetic grandma who usually had Ellen Sandell helps with food distribution. include materials to do science work away independently, others amazing!” he said. carers come to cook for her each experiments, the children’s favourite love Zooming with a tutor for that predicted, there’s no question that Neysa Charlton is youth programs day. The carers were locked out, and part of our pre-lockdown program. extra personal touch. Maths bingo, coordinator at Hotham Mission. this woman’s family had no way to public housing residents have Now, they can do them at home. anagrams and trivia quizzes have get her food or urgently required been let down by governments for They can also opt to join the weekly proved popular. medicine. decades. A young mother had a newborn As the local MP, I hear daily from baby in intensive care and wasn’t people who are living in cramped, allowed out to see her or to deliver overcrowded apartments, who expressed breastmilk. We were can’t get basic maintenance done, able to fast-track her test and she and who have been waiting many was allowed visits with her baby. years on public housing waiting We also worked with a mum who lists. couldn’t get access to clean insulin In fact, more than 100,000 people needles for her diabetic six-year-old are on waiting lists in Victoria. and had to reuse needles. There’s a huge demand for a safe In this distressing situation, place to call home. I know because my team and I worked around you’ve told me – in phone calls, the clock to connect people emails, surveys and in person. with services they needed. As we start to look at how to Local community members also rebuild after this pandemic, jumped in immediately to get housing must be a top priority. food and nappies and to translate We must invest in repairing and information to those in need. Our building more public housing. local Australian Muslim Social Not only is this a critical measure Services Agency collected donated but it will create many desperately food and supplies and delivered needed long-term jobs. them. Ellen Sandell is the state MP for Melbourne. What happened at the public housing towers highlights the Want to know more? difficulties that residents have If there’s any way I can help you at long faced. While the pandemic this tough time, please get in touch at obviously couldn’t have been Neysa Charlton organises remote learning. [email protected]

Flemington Racecourse. Although planes were being assembled and only five in 1934, Laurie recalled tested before their operation in the Laurie shared his childhood memories having an excellent view of Scott Pacific. Felicity Jack was able to access the roof of the and Black, in their brilliant red Laurie played football for North building through a high window aircraft, winning the England- Melbourne from 1949 to 1951. He aurie Shipp was a well-known in the unit passageway that left Australia MacRobertson Trophy later played with Yallourn in the LNorth Melbourne identity who him free to roam the roofs of the Air Race that celebrated Victoria’s Latrobe Valley where he worked for in 2011 completed his written buildings between Queensberry centenary. years as an engineer. Laurie was a friend of Jock reminiscences. He died in April this and Raglan streets. Felicity Jack is a member of Hotham McPherson, caretaker of the year, aged 90. When Laurie climbed to the top of History Project. Laurie was born in 1929 in the the clock tower, he had to negotiate adjacent town hall. He used the caretaker’s apartment above the steep stairs and ladders in the dimly large hall to successfully try out Want to know more? Errol Street post office where his lit, dusty structure through a series his first model aeroplane, a small Find Laurie Shipp’s 2011 father was senior postman and of levels. He aimed to time his climb wire-and-fabric construction reminiscences and other caretaker. Laurie described the to avoid the deafening chime of the driven by a rubber band. He kept local publications on the three-bedroom unit, reached by striking clock. a keen interest in planes. During Hotham History website climbing 34 stairs, as “palatial by the The windows of the family World War II, he spent hours on www.hothamhistory.org. standards of the day”. apartment gave a sweeping view the roof watching the activities at au. The Project is always He appears to have enjoyed a from Mount Macedon across to the Fishermans Bend government keen to attract new Laurie Shipp aged about 17. childhood with few constraints. He Fisherman’s Bend and included aircraft factory where American members. North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 13

Melbourne City Council Election Key dates: Ballots posted to registered voters – 6-8 October; voting closes – 23 October Melbourne City Council’s place in our world

Meg De Young The News and the Centre have assembled three-term President/Mayor at Melton City Council. this 4-page feature to provide voters with “The state makes certain directions, such as Melbourne City Council is the local government information that may help them in the Melbourne capping the percentage increase for rates, body responsible for the municipality of City Council election being held during October. Margaret said. Melbourne. The Council consists of a Lord Mayor, a This information is particularly important “The Council determines its budget according to Deputy Lord Mayor and nine Councillors. this year, when COVID-19 restrictions make what it sees as the community needs. Councillors The Chief Executive Officer liaises with the traditional electioneering, such as public are elected every four years and the majority of meetings, impossible. offices of the Lord Mayor and Deputy Lord Mayor, councils are divided into wards with proportional Councillors, City of Melbourne executives, Victorian representation.” Government and community and corporate MCC provides pre-school, youth support and senior citizens facilities and programs, library Margaret talked about local governments’ stakeholders to see that objectives are being met. responsibilities. “Council is responsible The City of Melbourne municipality covers 14 services and meeting rooms for local groups. It also has a strong role in advocacy with other for providing a wide variety of services and suburbs, including the CBD. The municipality is infrastructure such as local roads, and bridges 2 levels of government and authorities that provide around 37 km and shares its borders with seven footpaths and cycleways, street lighting, waste other councils. infrastructure and services, such as schools, hospitals and public transport. collection, food safety administering the Food The council delivers the four-year Council Plan, Act 1984, recreation facilities and citizenship which sets out what the Council will achieve during North Melbourne resident and former City councillor, Lorna Hannan OAM, points out that ceremonies. its four-year term to further the community vision “Among the many important activities, the Council and the Future Melbourne 2026 Plan, together the City of Melbourne is both a local government and the government of a capital city. “That makes is responsible for is Emergency Management and with the Annual Plan and Budget, which describes Planning. Council needs to identify risks in the the Council’s key objectives and activities for each it different from all other local governments. Its voting system is also different to other local municipality and devise treatment and mitigation 12-month period. plans.” In the lead up to Victorian State and Federal governments. In Melbourne, councillors are elected across the whole of the municipality, rather When asked are there any misconceptions with elections, the Council will put forward to political what residents think local government can or can’t parties a wide variety of questions which prioritise than the ‘wards’ or geographic divisions common in other councils.” do, Margaret responded: areas that are affecting the City of Melbourne. “People think that council can make decisions These responses are sought before elections Lorna believes the Council’s policies should directly benefit the residents. “City residents should expect about planning schemes which are really drawn up and those received are posted online for the by State Government but council administers the community to review and consider how political that the city they live in is kept healthy, clean and well organised. Residents should have certain red tape. parties propose to tackle priority issues for “Also, Council is not responsible for main roads, Melbourne. rights in matters directly affecting their health and environment. It is important that councillors offer only local roads.” Local councils handle community needs, such as Some people believe Councils should stick to waste collection, public recreation facilities, town plans to monitor this aspect of city life through the Urban Forest Strategy which promotes various ‘roads, rates and rubbish’, but as Margaret asked: planning, local roads, building regulations and “If it did what would you be prepared to give up”? public health. measures to ‘green’ the city environment.” Centre Board member, Margaret Wood OAM, was a

Anthony Denehey The (Pink) Leadership Team Ballot requires numbering How to make your preferred Leadership Team as No. 1, subsequently In line with the Victorian Electoral Commission’s COVID filling in all remaining boxes in order of preference until Safety Strategy, a postal vote is the ONLY way to vote in your vote count every box is filled. the 2020 Melbourne City Council Elections. The voting The (Blue) Councillor Ballot follows a preferential voting period begins on 6 October and you must post your based on residency is prioritised over commercial system. Voters either fill in one box above the line, or completed ballot before 6pm, 23 October. eligibility. every box below the line. Not both! If you want complete Remember, it is compulsory for ALL registered voters control of your preference votes, you will need to vote Do I have to vote in a council election? within Melbourne City Council, including those on the below the line. Starting with no. 1, list the candidates in In Victoria, voting in council elections is compulsory for Melbourne Chief Executive Officer’s List, to vote in the order of preference until every box is filled. all residents on the Australian or Victorian Electoral Roll. Melbourne City Council Election. If you choose to fill above the line in the (Blue) Councillor You may face a fine of $83 if you fail to vote. If you are Ballot, you are choosing to vote for a ‘group ticket’ and over 70 years of age voting is not compulsory. How do I vote? your preferences will be pre-chosen by your preferred The council elections you vote in relates directly to the The Victorian Electoral Commission will mail out ballot candidate. These groups are pre-registered and made council you reside in. packs for eligible voters between 6 and 8 October. available on the VEC website, where you can see where Ratepayers, such as owner/occupiers within the Contents of the pack include: Two Ballot Papers (one your preference votes might land when choosing to vote City Of Melbourne and corporations who operate in Blue, one Pink), an envelope for the Ballot, information above the line. affiliation with these owner/occupiers, are placed on about the nominated candidates and a reply-paid the Chief Executive Officer’s List and are also eligible envelope for postage of your completed ballot. If it is Have your say to vote alongside residents on the Victorian Electoral not in the mail by 6pm, 23 October, your vote will not be To make your vote count, take some time to research Commission List. counted. the candidates, then follow carefully the instructions on In case of joint ownership, ratepayers and corporations In the City of Melbourne, two elections are run side by the ballot. are able to nominate a maximum of two representatives side – The Leadership Team Ballot (Pink Form) to elect For more information, look at the Victorian Electoral per commercial venture. However, as no individual voter the Lord Mayor and Deputy Mayor and the Councillor Commission website: www.vec.vic.gov.au is permitted to vote twice in the same election, eligibility Ballot (Blue Form) to elect nine Councillors. 14 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Melbourne City Council Election

All candidates for Melbourne City Council and for the Leadership Team (Mayor and Deputy Mayor) were approached by the News to provide information about the candidate’s postcode, party affiliation and “up to three leading issues or problems facing residents of North and West Melbourne and what actions you will propose that Council take to address them” (with a 150-word limit). These pages contain information that was provided by our press deadline, in the ballot order drawn by the Victorian Electoral Commission.

Labor For Melbourne Sustainable Australia Party – Stop Overdevelopment/Corruption Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: Council Candidates: Philip Reed – resident in: 3002; political party membership: Labor Richard Belcher – resident in: 3003; political party membership: Sustainable Australia Party Wesa Chau – 3004; Labor Bettina Terry – 3141; Sustainable Australia Party Council Candidates: Official party affiliation: Sustainable Australia Party Davydd Griffiths – resident in: 3031; political party membership: Labor Issues: Three key issues: Mary Delahunty – 3185; Labor Protect our environment – reform planning laws to protect green space Hamdi Ali – 3053; Labor Stop overdevelopment – return real planning power to local communities through proper Official party affiliation: Labor engagement Issues: Ensuring local shopping strips like Errol, Victoria and Spencer streets are supported Stop corruption – put the needs of local communities before property developers and to rebuild post the COVID-19 lockdown, as well as to provide jobs for locals, especially major political parties. younger people in the hospitality sector. More information: www.sustainableaustralia.org.au/victoria_local_2020 The Labor for Melbourne policy document at www.melbournelabor.com.au/policy details a wide range of initiatives that a Labor-led council would implement to renew jobs in our Team Hakim – Local Independent community, and enable better access to training programs for locals seeking work. The City of Melbourne’s housing strategy expired in 2018. This needs to be overhauled and Council Candidates: updated. A Labor-led council would use planning controls to ensure an appropriate supply Jamal Hakim – resident in: 3008; political party membership: None of affordable rentals and services in the inner city including aged care properties and Safaa Hakim – 3008; None facilities that meet the needs of our culturally diverse community. Official party affiliation: None A Labor-led council would also nurture and grow Melbourne’s vital arts scene to ensure that Issues: Safety: When we immigrated to Australia, it was important to us that we found our city retains its creative heart post-COVID-19. a community where we felt safe, and we know this experience is shared by many in this More information: [email protected]; www.melbournelabor.com.au part of Melbourne. We’re passionate about ensuring this side of our CBD is a thriving community that is physically, emotionally, culturally and environmentally safe for everyone, Back to Business and we want to broaden the city’s definition of safety so that all plans and developments address this in a comprehensive way. Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: Congestion: The new stations being put in will be great for our neighbourhoods, but Jennifer Yang we need to ensure that our suburbs don’t just become thoroughfares or overrun by Sandra Gee developments. We plan to advocate for this neighbourhood to protect its cultural identity Council Candidates: and ensure the community continues to have access to the lifestyle factors which are the Elizabeth Mary Doidge reasons for living here. Charles Pick More information: [email protected]; www.teamhakim.co Moti Visa Bedri Sainovski Issues: Answers not provided Team Sally Capp More information: [email protected] Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: Sally Capp – resident in: 3008; political party membership: None Team Arron Wood Nicholas Reece – 3068; Labor Council Candidates: Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: Kevin Louey – resident in: 3181; political party membership: None Arron Richard Wood – resident in: 3031; political party membership: None Roshena Campbell – 3065; Liberal Lisa Teh – 3068; None Mark David McMillan – 3011; None Council Candidates: Tania Davidge – 3184; None Jason Chang – resident in: 3079; political party membership: None James Young – 3145; None Peter Clarke – 3095; Liberal Tina Kuek – 3006; Labor Beverley Frances Pinder – 3182; None Official party affiliation: None Abdirahman I. Ali – 3051; None Issues: North and West Melbourne are among the fastest-growing parts of our city, Beverley Honig – 3161; None and the City of Melbourne needs to ensure that facilities and services keep pace with Official party affiliation: None community growth and needs. That’s why Sally Capp’s team will deliver on three leading Issues: Arron is a long-time Kensington resident and business owner in North and West issues for these communities. If elected, Sally Capp and her team will generate more jobs Melbourne; Abdi Ali is a resident of the North Melbourne Public Housing Towers. All for all, including pathways to employment for people from diverse cultural backgrounds, candidates own businesses in the city. We will: international students and rough sleepers. Sally and her team will deliver more community • Renew the North Melbourne Community Centre so it better caters for residents, infrastructure, including progressing the Kensington Community Centre redevelopment supportIng the implementation of education and employment programs for residents and ensuring the Arden urban renewal precinct in North Melbourne has new community in public housing. facilities and open spaces to cater for the uplift in residents and workers. Sally’s team is • Deliver new open space like the already delivered Hawke and Adderley Park; we want also committed to providing more green and open spaces, like the Greenline, which will more open space in North and West Melbourne, including delivery of Moonee Ponds provide new public spaces and better cycling and walking connections into the city. Creek Masterplan. More information: [email protected]; sallycapp.com • Protect residential amenity, Arron secured the sound wall for railway place residents when faced with impact of the regional rail link. • Respect for residents rights against inappropriate over-development. Animal Justice Party • Better support for small business in shopping strips such as Errol, Victoria and Council Candidates: Spencer streets and we’ll guard against rat running generated by the Westgate Tunnel, Rabin Bangaar – resident in: 3051; political party membership: not provided which Arron opposed. Rod Whitfield – resident in: 3053; political party membership: not provided More information: [email protected]; www.teamarronwood.com.au/ Official party affiliation: Animal Justice Party Issues: Low income/high unemployment: Melbourne is blessed to be so multicultural. Your Melbourne Team Get It Done Additional funds to provide upskilling and training of people is critical for those that may Council Candidates: have difficulty finding decent work or have low paid jobs because of language barriers. Mary K. Poulakis – resident in: 3058; political party membership: None Housing affordability: Housing prices in the area are constantly skyrocketing as are rates. Fiona Sweetman – 3004; None Not only should we be incentivising any development to be environmentally friendly and Official party affiliation: None sustainably built, we need to ensure that houses are made affordable for those who need Issues: The residents of North and West Melbourne and residents throughout the it most. municipality make up the fabric of their city and contribute to the overall liveability and Limited parklands/green space: A significant lack of green space or wildlife corridors are ongoing prosperity in those precincts. present. Funding for community gardens to foster community connections, dog parks, and Balance of representation and a trusted voice and access to elected representatives at to provide more trees and safe areas for local wildlife is an important step in our reconciling Council will allow the issues of transport and traffic use, open and safe public spaces and with how we interact with the natural world. a real plan with the right infrastructure and facilities for a growing community for future More information: [email protected]; www.ajpvic.org.au generations to be addressed with relevance and real consultation. The key to success or implementation through all of this is consultation and the ability to have balanced conversations with stakeholders, be that residential or business. More information: [email protected]; [email protected] North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 15

Melbourne City Council Election

Artemis Pattichi – Independent Local Voice Innovate Melbourne – Startup the City Council Candidates: Council Candidates: Artemis Pattichi – resident in: 3006; political party membership: None Andrew Rowse – resident in: 3051; political party membership: None Adriana Mendieta Nino – resident in: not provided; political party membership: not provided John Daniell – 3006; None Official party affiliation: None Official party affiliation: None Issues: Three leading issues I’d address for North and West Melburnians: Issues: As a resident of North Melbourne and member of the startup eco system, I see - Planning the Arden Development as an exceptional opportunity that can springboard the local - Sustainability – Transport and Green Spaces community from the impacts of COVID-19, through supporting startups and SMEs. The - Sense of Community. designation of an ‘Innovation Precinct’ is a momentous opportunity for the community, As an independent resident with community and sustainability work experience, I’ve seen but benefits will only be felt if the execution and links to Melbourne’s growing startup and how improving these areas can make our urban neighbourhoods more inclusive, liveable, venture capital eco system are maintained. It is this endeavour, in achieving the success with better access to jobs and opportunities. Actions: of the proposed innovation, economic and social precinct, that we must not abandon and I • Improve council’s planning consultation with communities and residents associations. believe North Melbourne residents deserve to have confidence in the intent and execution • Evaluate developments’ long-term impact on your neighbourhood’s livability and of proposed plans. We cannot afford to have misaligned developments that do not serve workability. the community, nor promote opportunity. This is our chance to ensure over the next 4 years, • Plan and invest in community spaces, responding to the distinct character and needs we safeguard opportunity and a prosperous future for our neighbourhood. of each neighbourhood. More information: [email protected] • Increase activated green spaces so you can interact with nature, improving mental and physical health. Morgan-Watts Team • Improve West Melbourne’s walkability while maintaining its historic character, e.g. green walking spaces, pedestrian and cycling paths, Spencer St green tram line. Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: I aim to support North and West Melbourne’s dynamic character and communities, Gary Morgan – resident in: 3002; political party membership: None improve livability, inclusivity and diversity, sustainability, connectivity and vitality for your Mary-Lou Howie – 3003; None much-loved suburbs. Council Candidates: More information: [email protected]; www.facebook.com/ArtemisPattichi4Council/ Jackie Watts – resident in: 3053; political party membership: Labor Michael Kennedy – 3000; Liberal Liberal Democrats Haya Aldaghlas – 3051; None Dashi Zhang – 3008; Liberal Council Candidates: Official party affiliation: None Paul Silverberg – resident in: 3006; political party membership: Liberal Democrats Issues: The community of North and West Melbourne faces yet another election with one Faith Newman – resident in: 3006; political party membership: Liberal Democrats of the world’s worst gerrymanders in place. It is deliberately designed to reduce the voting Official party affiliation: Liberal Democrats power of residents and small business people like us. The flaws in the system are extensive Issues: Liberate Melbourne – Freedom & Prosperity. The challenges facing Melbourne are and cannot be covered in this 150-word article. The current system serves the greater than at any other point in recent memory – so the 2020 election is unlike any other. big end of town and results in poor representation at Council. This gerrymander has The unjustifiably harsh lockdown of the city has caused immense damage to its economy, resulted in many poor decisions, Queen Victoria Market degeneration, the debacle over its people and our reputation. This election gives you a chance to right these wrongs, by the safe injecting room, the weak financial position of the Council, the inappropriate electing people who will re-open Melbourne and restore its reputation as a most liveable development/unsustainable construction and the failure to consider the need for vital city once again. North and West Melbourne have specific issues that need to be addressed infrastructure in a growing city like open space, child care/education facilities and people- that our team has identified: friendly public areas/streets. Post-pandemic, Council must re-assess existing strategies 1. Landlords are being heavily affected by the dip in the rental market with two-thirds of and policies to deal with the new normal. This election should deliver Councillors who can residents being renters. We will work with renters and landlord associations to help them achieve successful results, not more failures. carry the burden through instruments such as voting ‘no’ on rate increases / rate deferrals, More information: jackiewatts.com.au/morgan-watts-melbourne-2020-team/ especially as the state struggles to reopen the economy. 2. On-street parking is incredibly expensive for residents; we will work with stakeholders to Bring Back Melbourne increase affordability More information: [email protected]; [email protected] Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: Nick Russian – resident in: not provided; political party membership: None Michael Burge – 3124; Liberal Residents First Council Candidates: Council Candidates: Phillip Le Liu – resident in: 3000; political party membership: Liberal Janette Corcoran – resident in: 3008; political party membership: None Serena Lu Jiang – 3006; Liberal Mary Masters – 3003; None Lauren Sherson – 3206; Liberal Samantha Tran – 3006; None Darin Schade – 3002; Liberal Official party affiliation: None Official party affiliation: None Issues: The major issue is that we don’t have true representation on council, resulting in Issues: Feasibility study of linking Docklands and Fisherman Bend, North and West unmet needs. We’ve been overlooked by a council aligned to political parties, property Melbourne together through roads and other connections. No rate increase for the next 4 developers or big business. Council focuses on Melbourne city, but we need attention years. No penalties for late payment and an extra 30% discount for those who pay on time. on our suburbs: we need safer streets, more community services, and support for A new ‘Your Rates, Your Choice’ program where residents can have the option of choosing neighbourhoods and business across the municipality. Council must rebuild local where 50% of your rates can be invested and used. communities in order to rebuild our economy: make our streets, our neighbourhood A digital ‘Thank you Voucher’ of $300 credit for residents that can only be spent with shopping strips and our city safe and welcoming for residents, visitors, and for workers participating small business within the City and a free mental health care package for all to return to their offices. We need community-led consultation and funds for initiatives to residents curated by council based on needs. help communities re-emerge from isolation. This starts with residential representation Every resident will have an option of a ‘Get to know your city’ lesson funded by council to on council to ensure the needs of all residents are considered in council decisions. learn about the history of Melbourne. Mary Masters is a long-time resident of West Melbourne. Vote 1 Residents First to make More information: [email protected]; residential living a council priority. businessresidentsstudents.melbourne More information: [email protected]; residentsfirst.com.au The Greens Melbourne – We All Matter Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: Council Candidates: Apsara Sabaratnam – resident in: 3000; political party membership: The Greens Sainab Sheikh – resident in: 3031; political party membership: None Roxane Ingleton – resident in: 3051; political party membership: The Greens Fatuma Ali – 3031; None Council Candidates: Official party affiliation: None Rohan Leppert – resident in: 3031; political party membership: The Greens Issues: Local businesses and small business operators in North-West Melbourne precinct Olivia Ball – 3053; The Greens have been ignored by council to date with all their efforts focused on big ticket major Emily Corcoran – 3053; The Greens projects. Well “we all matter” and some actions we will take are: David Jeffery – 3031; The Greens 1. Provision of new programs that provide you with new skills to have the training required Nakita Thomson – 3006; The Greens for the jobs of the future. Charlotte George – 3002; The Greens 2. Provision of affordable childcare to give you the best opportunity especially to single Official party affiliation: The Greens parents to get into the workforce. Issues: Our full plan for North and West Melbourne is at www.melbournecitygreens.com. 3. Cutting red tape to an absolute minimum so that small business can use their creativity North and West Melbourne are growing quickly, but not equitably. We will focus on the to maximise their opportunities and we will help them achieve their goals, rather than put housing crisis by building public, social and emergency housing, especially in ‘Arden’, hurdles in the way. We particularly want to activate streets such as Errol Street, Victoria and changing the planning rules to require more affordable homes to be built. We want Street and Macaulay Road especially when we come out of COVID-19 restrictions so we young people, essential workers and families to be able to afford to live and prosper in our can generate business and fill empty shops. inner suburbs. We will fight for renters’ and public housing tenants’ rights. We will tackle More information: [email protected] climate change by accelerating sustainable building design in the planning system, while conserving our precious built heritage, and delivering new parks including on Queensberry and Sutton streets. We will support our local economies through a recession by changing 16 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Melbourne City Council Election our rating system, to allow for much lower rates on cafes, restaurants and places people Ungrouped gather, while doubling them on gambling premises and providing relief for residents. More information: [email protected]; melbournecitygreens.com/ Council Candidate: Philip Jonathan Bateman – resident in: 3002; political party election-2020/ membership: None Official party affiliation: None Issues: I seek your vote and see this role as my civic duty to support our city. I am Victorian Socialists particularly interested in multicultural engagement, renewable energy investments, Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: pursuing circular economy principles and redesigning our inputs to eliminate waste, Kath Larkin – resident in: 3053; political party membership: Victorian Socialists activating municipal spaces to improve social interaction, whilst improving access to all Daniel Nair Dadich – 3031; Victorian Socialists kinds of health care. Having worked with small to medium business my whole life, I am Council Candidates: keen to see them again thrive, whilst driving for greater tax compliance from multinational Christopher di Pasquale – resident in: 3053; political party membership: Victorian Socialists organisations. Rekindling our theatre, music and events are a top priority, though I have Jesse Lambourn – 3000; Victorian Socialists no wish to endanger anyone for a COVID-19 resurgence through rapid reopening. I see Official party affiliation: Victorian Socialists drug usage as a social, not criminal issue, and I do not encourage alcohol consumption or Issues: 1. Council is run for business interests. Businesses get two votes in the elections, gambling. I believe the way to direct our society together, is by making choices based on while hundreds of thousands of workers are marginalised. The Lord Mayor is the former merit and not ideology. Find me at linkedin.com/in/philipbateman head of the property council and takes home more than $200,000. We will campaign to More information: [email protected] abolish the business vote and only take a worker’s wage – giving the rest to community campaigns. Ungrouped 2. We are in a housing crisis. Public Housing is being left to rot or sold off, and the rental market is unaffordable. We will fight for rent controls, improved and expanded public Council Candidate: Andrew Ward – resident in: 3008; political party membership: None housing – by 30,000 housing units in three years – and a voice for public housing residents Official party affiliation: None on Council. Issues: Public Housing decline – I was upset to see the treatment of the tower residents 3. Privatisation has destroyed our communities, and been revealed as a killer during this during the COVID-19 postcode lockdowns. Public housing has been in decline over the past pandemic. We will stand up against the reckless pursuit of profit, and campaign to reverse 10 years, disturbingly when the need has been increasing. In 2009 there were 65,064 the privatisation of aged care and other services. dwellings available; in 2019 that number shrunk to 64,428, a decline of 636 dwellings More information: [email protected]; www.victoriansocialists.org.au/ or about 1%. I will push council to reverse this trend and provide a roadmap to meet the melbourne-city current demands and improve amenity. Small Business support – provide access to rates relief, an extension to the current grant program, and a City funded App-based Voucher system called ‘City Cash’ to support all industries. Increase funding for community health It Will Be Okay Melbourne and wellbeing. Improve and invest in facilities, services and social spaces for Melbourne’s Council Candidates: youth and seniors. I would like to see another ‘Venny’ facility with attached skate park to be Joseph Burke – resident in: 3078; political party membership: None built in North Melbourne. Michael Mach – 3006; None More information: [email protected] Official party affiliation: None Issues: The leading issues facing residents of North and West Melbourne relate to Team Zorin lockdown. Facemasks and the lockdown: The imposition of mandatory facemasks is insulting and Lord Mayor/Deputy Mayor Candidates: intimidating to residents, whether or not they are effective. Local residents shouldn’t be Wayne Tseng – resident in: 3000; political party membership: None fined just because they left their facemask at home. Gricol Yang – 3000; None Public transport and the lockdown: We recognise that a lot of people in this area are reliant Official party affiliation: No on public transport, and that they don’t drive because historically the public transport has Issues: Team Zorin brings inspirations and innovations to Melbourne recovery. We been really good. But, the post-COVID-19 world changes this. This will mean that council advocate ‘fit for purpose’ policies and don’t drive on the Left or Right ideology. You will find should have outreached service delivery so that residents don’t have to travel to town hall policies that address the needs of all Melbournians at Zorin.com.au. Team Zorin will invite to get things done. all Melbournians to participate in the governing of the city through the introduction of a Happiness and the lockdown: It’s terrible what we have all been through, but it’s important digital democracy platform. Melbournians through their phones can post issues, report to remember that it’s just temporary. Happiness will return. It will be okay Melbourne. failures, submit solutions, hold virtual committees, rate the performance of your councilors More information: [email protected]; [email protected] and vote on council decisions (no direct vote yet). Melbourne is so precious to be a test lab for half-baked policies. We cannot have another failure. Melbournians know Melbourne best. Team Zorin will begin the process of planning and governing the city as a collective. Ungrouped Vote for Us Vote for Yourself. Are you ready to begin? Council Candidate: Scott Robson – resident in: 3051; political party membership: None More information: zorin.com.au Official party affiliation: None Issues: I stand as a purely independent common-sense Melbournian. I am not limited by a single issue, political party, or ideology. Importantly, I believe people are intelligent What is the role of a Councillor? and capable of taking personal responsibility for their own decisions about the risks and Cr Cathy Oke, Melbourne City Council 2008-2020 opportunities they take. I will encourage prosperity and life-quality, and protect against fear and control. Supporting the vulnerable and enabling the capable. Born in Melbourne, This is the first Council election since 2004 that I will not be contesting as a candidate, graduated Masters of Business Administration, AIB, and Bachelor Science, Monash so I appreciate this opportunity to reflect on the important role of Councillors within our University. My guiding principles are: 1. Question everything. 2. Choose common sense over municipality. It was community institutions, like the North & West Melbourne News (and regulation. 3. Council projects should be aesthetic and practical. 4. Think like a scientist my parents Kay and Rob), that instilled my respect for this level of government, the tier rather than have faith in ‘science’. 5. People belong to groups; groups are not people. 6. We closest to the people. I grew up with bundles of the News in the hallway of our house. are all connected. 7. It all happens with a smile. Together, let’s make Melbourne the world’s It was through the articles in this paper, and the people who volunteered to distribute most liveable city again. it to the neighbourhood, that I learned the importance of politicians engaging in local More information: [email protected] issues like saving local swimming pools or protecting Royal Park. It was in watching those local campaigns as a teenager that I had a glimpse of the important but often difficult Ungrouped decisions that Councillors need to make, to balance the needs of the whole community – within limited resources and often with limited control. Council Candidate: Luke Downing – resident in: 3051; political party membership: None Councillors are elected by ratepayers, and in the City of Melbourne this includes Official party affiliation: None residents, businesses and those who pay rates but don’t live here. Unlike other Issues: municipalities, Councillors aren’t assigned to Wards and don’t have to live here – rather 1. The extraordinary collapse of public amenity in North and West Melbourne over the past we take an Oath of Office, committing to carry out the role to the best of our ability for several years is extraordinary. I have never seen anything like it in my life. We know how the whole municipality – East Melbourne to Kensington, Southbank to Carlton, and the to conduct ourselves in our community – public amenities must be increased. It will only Melbourne CBD. In a normal non-COVID-19 day, more than one million people travel benefit us all. to The City of Melbourne for work or to visit. So the City of Melbourne Act also requires 2. The encroachment of high density residential developments in what has always been a taking all residents, businesses and visitors into consideration. highly residential, but open, well spaced and natural environment. A week in the life of a Councillor includes one formal evening meeting of Council or Future 3. The treatment of traders at Queen Victoria Market is an absolute travesty. This Melbourne Committee (three Tuesdays a month), a day of briefings and multiple other abomination of a transformation that has emerged from City of Melbourne over the past committees or meetings with constituents in the evenings and much of the weekend. five years has no understanding of the significance, and economic stability, that the Market But, with the long hours, you get to meet some amazing people doing amazing things, and its traders provide not merely to North and West Melbourne residents, but to people and contribute to policies for better communities. throughout northern Melbourne. There’s a good reason we enjoy and frequent the Market Being born and bred in North Melbourne, and having lived in Carlton and now – it’s part of our fabric. And it is not expensive – a valuable asset to our food security and Kensington, provided me a perspective of the local issues, voices, and opportunities from general community wellbeing. people just as passionate about our neighbourhoods as me; although it has of course not More information: [email protected] always been easy to navigate opposing concerns among friends and neighbours! Despite this tension, I strongly believe that being a local is a key attribute of a good Councillor, because a key Councillor role is to provide links between the community and Council; something best undertaken by those with lived experience. It is important in this level of government, closest to the community, that you understand how Council decisions affect those who live and work here on a daily basis. North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 17 Kerr’s role Lauren proves a revealed in caring presence right royal John H. Smith connecting people with each other, or sitting with a family or a staff rumpus everend Lauren Mosso knows person to debrief after a critical Rall too well the threat COVID-19 incident such as a sudden death.” poses to community health and Sometimes the moment of Maurice Gaul wellbeing. contact is a lot less confronting. In April, her brother in Maryland, “A quiet chat can make all the ocal resident Professor Jenny US, was hospitalised with the virus, difference. It can mean caring for LHocking is a respected and and her sister-in-law also became someone, perhaps by just allowing widely published historian, infected. Fortunately, both have space for a bit of black humour to especially lauded for her magisterial fully recovered. surface and to be released,” she two-volume biography of Gough Lauren lives in North Melbourne says. Whitlam. with husband Mark Duckworth All of Melbourne is finding the She is also a national treasure. and their three children. She sings lockdown challenging. For years she worked tirelessly for with Errol’s Angels choir but, in “At Epworth, we are now even the public release of the Palace her role as Epworth Richmond’s more aware of how interconnected Letters, the 211 exchanges between senior chaplain and pastoral care we are as a community,” Lauren Governor-General Sir John Kerr and coordinator, life is far from a song as says. the Queen. They reveal how Kerr she experiences daily the effects of “The effect of severely restricted planned and received royal advice the virus. visitor numbers is huge. The wards on his 1975 sacking of the Whitlam An ordained Uniting Church are quiet and can be lonely places government. minister, Lauren’s vocation led her for patients and so difficult for their “The Dismissal was a momentous to specialise in pastoral care. She families who can’t visit. And all event in our history. The Governor- now brings a faith-based presence front-line health workers are deeply General removed from office, to the hospital’s Richmond and anxious in this second wave.” without warning, an elected Freemasons acute care campuses, For Lauren, it’s the loss of personal government that had the Professor Jenny Hocking’s book The Palace Letters will be released in November. where she co-ordinates a religiously connection that is most painful. “It’s confidence of the Representatives. diverse and multi-skilled pastoral so hard wearing a mask and a face care team. shield while offering pastoral care Hours later, when the house voted deference. As a proud Australian us to be our own head of state. Epworth began in 1920 as an to people who might have to rely no confidence in Malcolm Fraser, he and a republican, it’s just We have to wonder why we have outreach of the Methodist Church, on lipreading to understand.” refused to resign. That was simply embarrassing to read these letters.” such an anachronistic notion of in response to the Spanish flu While the daily crises are endlessly intolerable in a parliamentary It’s beyond dispute that the privilege, accepting the birthright pandemic. Ironically, its centenary challenging, Lauren ensures democracy,” Jenny says. Queen’s private secretary’s letters of one family, in a democratic and is being celebrated as it copes with hospital staff have chances to Until three months ago, the effectively came from the monarch egalitarian nation like Australia. COVID-19. debrief. Even in the current stressful exchanges of 45 years ago between herself. “After the dismissal, Kerr said “We shouldn’t be in a position “I love helping all our team to situation, she helps others unwind Kerr and the Queen had been held he had never involved the Queen. where someone like me has to take identify their gifts and encouraging and find joy in the moment. in the National Archives under the But in fact the information that Federal Court action to get access them to stretch and grow, both “Recently we gathered in the Queen’s embargo. came from her secretary is from the to our own archival national records personally and in their work. chapel to sing a song composed In 2016, attempting to have the Queen. Kerr could only write to her because the Queen has told us that Together, we provide pastoral care especially to farewell a colleague. letters released, Jenny took the through her private secretary. That’s we couldn’t look at them,” she says. and support to the patients, their And we occasionally frock up to archives to the Federal Court but how it works,” Jenny says. In his doomed election campaign families and the hospital staff,” spread comfort and joy on the lost the case and a later appeal. The bitter reality of that turbulent in the weeks after the dismissal, Lauren says. wards,” she says. However, in May this year, the High time was the Queen in London Whitlam urged voters to “maintain Court ruled in her favour. It rejected “This involves being a non- knew more about our political crisis the rage”. Too few did, and Labor John H. Smith writes regularly for the the National Archives’ claim the anxious presence on the ward. than our elected prime minister was crushed. News. It might involve having a chat, letters were personal between Kerr in Canberra. “The Queen knew However, it’s the blistering words and the Queen, instead ruling they Kerr was considering sacking the of the just-dismissed Whitlam were Commonwealth records. The government at the very time he on the steps of parliament, “Well court’s decision paved the way for had chosen not to speak to Prime may we say God save the Queen, the archives to release the letters Minister Whitlam about his strategy because nothing will save the in full. regarding the blockage of supply.” Governor-General”, that have rung “The 6-1 decision was emphatic. Jenny sums up how Kerr broke down the years. For the first time, a reigning all conventions. “In a constitutional Kerr remains a bumptious, monarch’s desire to keep monarchy, a governor-general must top-hatted figure of ridicule in correspondence hidden had been remain politically neutral and act on public memory, a view fuelled overturned. My pro bono legal team the government’s advice. Kerr didn’t by his drunken antics at the 1977 were marvellous and their work do that. He was getting advice Melbourne Cup. means that Australians now can from the Palace on the very matters know their own history,” Jenny says. he was bound to discuss with the Maurice Gaul is editor of the News. The court’s ruling forced the lifting prime minister,” she explains. Want to know more? of the archaic royal embargo on our The release of the Palace Letters The Palace Letters will be published own historical records. For Jenny, has reignited some of the visceral in November by Scribe. Pre-orders are it was a moment to celebrate. anger of that era, and the Guardian’s now available. “Finally, a national humiliation Katharine Murphy recently told the had ended. No longer could the ABC’s Insiders that she was on the Queen withhold the truth of her verge of going “full Irish”. discussions with Kerr that led to Many other Australians are that cataclysmic day.” similarly irate as we learn the truth Jenny explains that Kerr made about 1975. Jenny remains hopeful his decision by himself but that the revelations in the letters, was strongly influenced by his plus the knowledge that the Queen exchanges with the Queen’s was able to embargo them from secretary. us for decades, will see us move “Kerr was an insecure man who towards a republic. wanted the Palace’s approbation “It’s a national humiliation that we and was overweening in his can’t choose someone from among Lauren and her bunny friends enjoyed Easter at Epworth. 18 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Michael and Kyri at Roasting Warehouse. Shaun at Wood Pharmacy. Linh at Andrew Harris Optometry. Local shops provide a welcome break from social isolation On the day before Melbourne went into stage four lockdown, photographer Meg De Young visited some of the local shops that have been so important in keeping our community alive. They have provided much appreciated personal contact for us all.

Chris at North Melbourne Books. Sue and Sophia at City North Physiotherapy. North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 19

Birpal and Parul Singh at Ferguson Plarre. Steve and Vishal at the Commowealth Bank.

Luke and Emily at Sublime. Ashlee and Cory at Parkhill Cellars.

Con and Raj at IGA. Sushi Noodle Town’s Jenny, Yong and Teresa.

W.B. Simpson: Silvia Lonigro, Richard Simpson, Deborah Adams, Syd Sherrin. Peter and Jenni at Paw Principality. 20 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Madeleine Scully we have been making use of through regular Friday evening technology to stay connected with Zoom sessions, newsletters and The City of Melbourne Bowls Club, Bowled over by virus members. Our annual meeting in email updates. Some also report nestled in the pretty Flagstaff July was the first held via Zoom and occasional personal encounters Gardens, has been bowled over by the best attended in memory. The while out walking, though COVID-19. Barron. Some months back, when tough stage four restrictions arrived board has also been using Zoom for recognising our masked-up fellow In many ways, 2020 has been stage three restrictions were lifted, and we had to put all our plans on monthly meetings since March. bowlers can be challenging. our most challenging year since members keen to get back on the ice. The club celebrated its 154th We mustn’t forget how fortunate we moved into our beautiful new greens were able to use the online The club has used the time to do birthday back in August. However, we are to be part of a 154-year-old building in 2009. Club members booking system and to comply with some work on our facilities and we couldn’t keep up our now club that has risen to many have been unable to gather in all the COVID-safe rules. our systems. The lounge has been decade-long tradition of an annual challenges over its history. The the clubrooms since we held our When winter pennant fitted out with new chairs and new party in our new clubhouse. That project to write that history is ‘Farewell to the Bowlo … for now’ competition was cancelled, tabletops, ready to be enjoyed night it was sadly empty and silent. nearing completion, and we hope function back in March. we made plans for an in-house when functions resume. Less visible Instead, we all shared a celebration to soon hold the book’s launch in The greens have for many tournament and were excited are the new systems being bedded over Zoom, complete with cakes, our own clubrooms. weeks lain unused but certainly with the prospect of re-opening down, which will make life easier for candles and glasses raised to toast Madeleine Scully is secretary of the City of not unloved due to the care of the clubrooms. We were running members’ accounts and bookings. the occasion. Melbourne Bowls Club. our excellent greenkeeper, Peter a limited bowls program until the Like so many other organisations, Members are staying in touch Docklands Pop Up boosts community links

Stacey Halls How did you hear about Pop Up? volunteers. I enjoyed the challenge District Docklands is one of our of learning knitting and making The Docklands Pop Up favourite places to hang out. I masks. I loved the cooking lesson Neighbourhood House is a two-year passed the Pop Up Neighbourhood and I made yummy ANZAC biscuits. project of the Centre funded by the House, got curious, and one day I City of Melbourne and designed to walked in and talked to the then What have you enjoyed during lockdown? empower the community to develop coordinator Carol. She said they connections via activities, information needed more volunteers. I had just I mightn’t be very good at it but I’m sessions and events. Meet Pop Up left my job and wanted to engage trying stitching and I’ve managed volunteer Shimi Kannoly. myself in something that made me to make some masks. Cooking is happy. like a therapy for me and I’ve loved Shimi, how long have you lived in trying new recipes. I’m a trained Docklands? What do you like about it? Indian classical dancer and I’m We moved to Docklands last Getting to know about and trying to learn a new dance form. December. I feel it was our best understand different cultures. I’ve also found lockdown to be a decision to move here as we have Previously, my circle involved my good time to help Aria learn to ride everything nearby. We can enjoy husband’s friends, but now I have her bike. beautiful sunsets as we walk around friends of my own. When I go out Central Pier or we might get lucky Anything else you’d like to share? for a walk I meet at least one person and see a double rainbow at Ron with whom I can share a smile and Many women come here with their Barassi Park. talk about our wellbeing and share partners and struggle to find a job. I our emotions. was desperate to work, did so for six Where are you from? months, but allowed myself to be I was born in Kerala, in the south Which is your favourite Pop Up exploited. Trust me, it’s not worth of India, but I was bought up in activity? it. You might earn a bit of money Bombay. After I married, I moved I enjoy them all. I loved the but you can get scarred for life. I to Bangalore. We always wanted customer service training and Carol prefer to be a volunteer, to help the to move to some place where life was a great mentor. I introduced community and to spread love. would be more peaceful. In 2013, my daughter, Aria, to our friendly we came to Australia and decided Stacey Halls is community development Shimi with her daughter Aria. walks and she likes meeting all the coordinator at The Centre. to stay here forever.

as you stand at the counter and duties required. “Gelati comes from check out the backboard, you’ll be juices, they all come from fruits. Sweet spoilt for choice with the dozens of They’re all a family,” he says. smoothies and juices on offer. If a It’s hard work, all done without treats on ‘banana peanut butter smoothie’ financial support from the doesn’t hit the spot, you can fire up government, but Siavash has no with a ‘fibre engine’ juice. regrets. Despite the tough times, Errol Street Prior to opening in May, there he doesn’t see closing down as an were many challenges to overcome. option. “The locals support me and “I had to get all the required permits they buy lots of gelati,” he says. Nigel Pereira in order and I completed all the Siavash lives above the shop and renovations myself,” he says with is acutely aware of the crushing n early May, Siavash Kaveh quiet pride. scene along Errol Street as Iopened the doors of Hotham While the COVID-19 pandemic businesses close down around him. Juice & Gelati, his cute little ice- has knocked all local businesses “It breaks my heart, it’s so sad,” he cream shop in Errol Street in North around, Siavash has worked hard laments. Melbourne. at fostering customer reach to the However, summer is on the way Persian-born Siavash has shop’s door. “I started the shop and the times will get better. Keep transformed the interior of the because it was my dream. Now I get your eye on this little gem of a 140-year-old building, previously Siavash Kaveh at his Hotham Gelati. Photograph: Meg De Young locally sourced produce from the shop. Whatever you do, don’t miss a Baker’s Delight, into a very cool Queen Vic market. I want to be a Siavash’s ‘saffron and rosewater’ ice-cream parlour. Walk in and To your left is a pictorial timeline catching, colourful wall covered in local and support locals,” he says. gelati. you’ll love the ambience of this of the suburb’s rich history, inspirational and feel-good quotes. Siavash’s work ethic is striking. He Nigel Pereira is a new contributor to the taking us all the way back to Siavash’s creative menu includes makes fresh gelati daily, as well as niche business that has successfully News. weathered this lockdown winter. 1884. And to your right is an eye- 24 tempting gelati flavours. And, handling all the juicing and barista North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 21

Music teacher strikes the right note in tough times

Joe Misuraca contemporary music practice,” of eight musicians and five dancers,” she says. Imogen says. mogen Cygler teaches piano at Imogen is now doing her master’s Her blossoming performance Ithe Living School of Music, tucked in composition at the Victorian career has been knocked around by away on Little Baillie Street in North College of the Arts. Her honours COVID-19. Before it struck, she had Melbourne. thesis was on her other musical four gigs a week around Melbourne She has taught there for just inspiration, Scandinavian art song. but she now can’t imagine when that on a year and, before 2020’s two She investigated the sound of that work will return. lockdowns, took 10 students each genre and is now looking, as part of “I’m unsure if audiences will week. Now, stage four restrictions her master’s, at how Scandinavian appreciate live music again after this made her resort to teaching them music has influenced her identity as a crisis, but I just hope things will get online. “In fact, I’ve found it to be composer. better.” productive and I like being able to She recently received the City Despite all the widespread current check up on them virtually,” she says. of Melbourne’s quick-response gloom, Imogen has taken advantage Imogen’s teaching via COVID-19 arts development grant. of being stuck in lockdown. “It’s given Imogen Cygler hard at work. videoconferencing has yielded She won it for her composition of a me the time to hone my craft and to another unexpected benefit for her new work, a joint effort with dancer work on my studio skills rather than young students. “This approach teacher. “I believe it’s someone who changed her musical focus nearing Arabella Frahn-Starkie and filmmaker my performance skills. It’s also part of means they’ve got no choice other listens to students and what they the completion of her Year 12 music Meg Duncan. my master’s studies. than to read music, and this has need, and who comes to understand studies. “The initial creative development “The times are tough, but the really develops their skills at piano,” what sort of teaching works for “I decided then that I wanted was to generate material for a work to forced shift in focus at this time is so she says. them.” to play my own music. I realised I be presented, we hope, in Melbourne valuable,” she says. For Imogen, there’s no secret about While Imogen has loved classical wanted to experiment with my own at some later point. It’s for a large Joe Misuraca is a new contributor to the being a good and empathetic piano music since she was a child, she ideas and a lot of that was driven by ensemble of 13 performers consisting News. Church a community of people, not a building

Claire Yeoh “I think it has reminded all of us that the connected with worshippers during these distribution, our health and wellness activities, church is not a building but rather is a uncertain times. and our playgroups and homework clubs,” he eoff Pound, pastor of West Melbourne community of people,” he says. “The pandemic has encouraged our says sadly. GBaptist Church, remains cheerful about Geoff is strikingly upbeat as he outlines congregants to be more purposeful about As a result, Geoff and his fellow workers have the pandemic lockdown. how his church has managed to stay checking in with each other via phone calls been considering alternative ways to support and Zoom meetings,” he explains. the community. With anxiety levels on the rise The church community has responded and many grieving as a result of the global positively to the lockdown. pandemic, the church is actively addressing “We find our people are sharing with each pastoral care support and is equipping other how they are feeling and how they congregants to better support their friends have been coping or, sometimes, not coping. and family. As a result, we’ve probably got closer as a However challenging these dark days community through doing that.” might be, Geoff remains optimistic and says On normal pre-pandemic Sundays, the he can see the lockdown’s silver lining. He Baptist community gathered in a multi- emphasises that the church has been able to purpose room in their ‘vertical-village’ Hawke do things that in normal times are often left to and King Apartment complex. the bottom of the list. “Our congregation had moved here, after “We’re actively reviewing and improving our over 150 years in a traditional church building, operations, and we’re taking the time to adapt when we decided to be more community- and think ahead. The church building might centred,” Geoff says. be closed, but the church is still very much However, COVID-19 restrictions forced the active,” he says. temporary closure of the programs the church had developed to serve the local community. Claire Yeoh is a new contributor to the News. “We’ve had to put on ice our work with food

Geoff Pound, the man behind the mask. General Practitioners (Male and Female) Osteopathy Clinical Psychology Get involved through The Centre Podiatry Pathology Looking for a volunteer opportunity? The Centre has lots of them, from office administration to event management. Or we can point you towards other organisations that also rely on We are a fully accredited Private Medical Centre volunteers. OPENING HOURS: Monday to Thursday 9am to 5pm, Take a walk with a purpose Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm Level 1, 65–67 Errol Street, North Melbourne 3051 (above Wood Pharmacy) If you enjoy walking around North and West Melbourne, a great way to explore areas you may Call 03 9329 7011 for appointment bookings and fees not usually visit is to help with delivery of the North & West Melbourne News to homes and Book appointments online at www.carewisehealth.com.au businesses. or key “Errol Street Medical Centre” into your search engine If you are interested, please email SERVICES PROVIDED: Women’s and Men’s Health, Immunisations, Health Assessments, Wound Management and [email protected] Chronic Disease Management Plans 22 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

BETWEEN THE COVERS Chris Saliba

COVID-19: The Pandemic that The Stray Cats of Homs Bibbit Jumps Never Should Have Happened, Eva Nour Bei Lynn and How to Stop the Next One (Doubleday, RRP: $29.99) (Gecko Press, RRP: $16.99) Debora Mackenzie Eva Nour is a Swedish journalist Bibbit is a frog that loves to jump. Performer Hannah Camilleri. (Bridge Street Press, RRP: $32.99) who writes under a pseudonym. In He has a sister, no longer a tadpole, Debora Mackenzie has been 2015 she met ‘Sami’, a Syrian asylum whom he calls Little Frog. The two a New Scientist journalist for 36 seeker, while working in Paris. The go on a picnic and find a banana Hannah’s show jumps from years. Having followed viruses and two became friends and later, more tree. They pick the juiciest banana pandemics for decades, she was seriously involved. Nour persisted and share it with their other frog approached to write a ‘crash’ book in asking Sami questions about the friends. Bibbit and Little Frog don’t Club Voltaire onto the web on the subject of COVID-19. The Syrian civil war that started in 2011, only have friends in the frog world, encouraging him to open up about they are also friendly with rabbits, result is a punchy and arresting Annette McQuarrie 20-somethings. There’s Nina (played his experiences. The result is the squirrels, birds – even cats and short history of zoonotic pathogens by Hannah), Fran (David Quirk), remarkable The Stray Cats of Homs, a dogs. – diseases that have jumped from lub Voltaire is an intimate Ruth (Nat Harris) and Henry (Jordan novelisation of Sami’s story. They get involved in many animals to humans. The scientific theatre space in North Prosser). Three live in a shared The novel begins with Sami’s adventures in the wild, but soon C community has been on high Melbourne’s Raglan Street that household and one is applying to childhood. He grows up with Little Frog wants to go to the city. alert since SARS emerged from hosts our city’s emerging and join. three siblings and loving parents. Bibbit is not so sure – the city makes China. Meanwhile, the rest of us established artists across theatre, Hannah explains how she settled Soon enough, the brutal nature him nervous – but eventually he went about our business blissfully music, dance and comedy. on the name of her show. “There’s of Bashar al-Assad’s police state follows her lead. Together they unaware. Hannah Camilleri’s 2020 one character in each scene that’s starts impinging on Sami’s life. He navigate the city’s busy streets, find It is almost certain we got Melbourne Comedy Festival show acting like a little shit, someone learns to be careful of what to say a lift in a big building, and go to the COVID-19 from bats. As human had been slotted in at the quirky who has no regard for the others, and to whom. In 2011, several non- top floor for a big surprise. populations expand and move Voltaire, which had played host to hence the title,” she laughs. violent protests against the Assad Illustrator and writer Bei Lynn’s into areas rich in wildlife, the risk of her sell-out 2018 Fringe Festival She is upfront that she has based regime take place and are brutally quirky story of frogs, tadpoles and transmission increases. Indeed, the show, Big Snot. the characters on some past repressed. When civil war breaks other forest creatures is an utter history of agriculture is the history Then COVID-19 brought the flatmates. “Of course, I have! But out, many human rights abuses delight from start to finish. It is full of zoonotic disease. curtain down on Hannah’s one- all names and job descriptions take place that are impossible to of surprises and funny incidents How do we avert further woman show. However, she had have been altered to protect the countenance. Surely the rest of (the scene with the balancing catastrophe? Essentially, money is one more ace up her sleeve – a innocent – and to prevent a lawsuit.” the world won’t let such violent tadpoles is an absolute hoot), and needed for research and resources. good trick for a comedienne who The series of six short episodes, injustices happen? it features lots of beautiful line and Intergovernmental co-operation is isn’t a magician. with its deadpan delivery, clever Skillfully constructed to make for watercolour illustrations. Bibbit also essential. In a globalised world, She applied for and won a City of dialogue and delightfully awkward engaging reading, The Stray Cats Jumps will charm emerging readers a pandemic is everyone’s problem. Melbourne arts grant, enabling her scenarios between housemates, will of Homs shows how the Syrian civil – and adults too. Importantly, the US and China to produce a web comedy series, strike a chord with anyone who has war has devastated countless lives. For ages 7-8 years. need to co-operate and pool their Little Shits, based on a play she had lived in a share house. scientific knowledge. A humbling story delivered with performed at Club Voltaire. In a race Mackenzie maintains that, with grace and humanity. against time, six short scenes were Annette McQuarrie writes regularly for the News. better planning, this pandemic filmed before Melbourne went into could have been stopped in its lockdown. Editing was finalised Chris Saliba is co-owner of North Melbourne Books, 546 Queensberry Street. He writes Want to know more? tracks. It would have cost money, behind closed doors and the web regular reviews for the News. North Melbourne Books has remained open to serve Watch Hannah Camilleri’s web series, but as the global economy local readers. Phone 9041 4216; email [email protected]; or visit series premiered in August. Little Shits, at youtu.be/MFTBHwnmIhc nosedives, prevention would have northmelbournebooks.weebly.com Little Shits introduces us to been cheaper than cure. four young, self-obsessed

ELLEN SANDELL STATE MP FOR MELBOURNE

Hi, I’m Ellen. I’m passionate about a fair and liveable Melbourne. Tell me what’s important to you.

(03) 9328 4637 146 Peel Street [email protected] North Melbourne VIC 3051 ellensandell.com

Funded from Parliamentary Budget. Authorised by E. Sandell, 146 Peel St, North Melbourne. North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 23

Report to the community 2019/20

FROM THE DIRECTOR Tom Seddon

Centre is a place for everyone

The Centre is North and West income of $556,079 and expenses of Melbourne’s neighbourhood house $504,317 leaving a surplus of $51,742. in Errol St, North Melbourne and the After two consecutive annual shortfalls, publisher of the North & West Melbourne planning for and achieving a surplus News. Instead of a thick annual report even in these strange times was a FROM THE CHAIR on the year to 30 June 2020, distributed necessity. to and read by few, we have this year During the year, Community Karl Hessian decided to strip it back to basics and Development Coordinator Carolynne distribute it via this issue of the News. Venn and Events Coordinator Tatiana Neighbourhood houses are for Echeverri moved on to new challenges, everyone. Anyone can join The Centre, leaving behind important legacies: and it’s free. We offer a range of programs Carolynne drove the successful Many thanks to many people and anyone can suggest new ones. Even establishment of our Docklands Pop better, become a Centre volunteer and Up Neighbourhood House and Tatiana help us make your idea happen. founded our popular annual Spanish This year’s report is a reminder that probing to tweak or develop new ways of COVID-19’s arrival in Australia at the Language Fiesta. We welcomed incoming there were nine months of more or less working and you have adapted well and end of February made 2019/20 a year of Community Development Coordinator usual operations that preceded the final with grace. I am grateful to each of you. two very different parts. The first eight Stacey Halls and former student intern- distorting three, even if it doesn’t feel like Second, I need to acknowledge the months of the year ran as scheduled. But turned Community Development Officer that. financial support provided by all levels of come March – as limitations on events Jason Butcher. The final quarter, in which so much Government. This has taken two forms: and ‘social distancing’ came in, and As well as Neighbourhood House cherished activity and community a relaxation of delivery requirements for schools began to close – we cancelled Coordination Program funding from engagement was abruptly suspended, existing grants and further cash. Each the 2020 Spanish Language Fiesta. the Department of Health and Human looms over everything and puts all else in has been very much appreciated and Soon after that The Centre itself was Services, The Centre receives operational the shade. has ensured that we could retain all our required to close along with our Pop Up funding from the City of Melbourne, and There are really only two things to be staff and remain viable. In large part due Neighbourhood House in Docklands, we value the close working relationship said. The first and most important is to to this support we have generated a only opened in December. Like so many we have at Town Hall with Tallia, Melanie, sincerely thank all the staff, volunteers, surplus. This is a humbling position to be others, Centre staff learnt to work from Ariel and Siobhan. contractors and everybody else who in. As soon as possible this surplus will be home and to conduct meetings by video. As ever, The Centre owes a big thank you assists in the running of The Centre. reinvested back into our community and Board meetings, too, moved online. to our Spring Fling volunteers; the folks This year you have been subjected to spent for the benefit of all. Financially, The Centre like many other who write, produce and deliver the News; extraordinary stresses, uncertainties Thank you to everybody in North and institutions faced a sudden drop in homework club tutors; our staff and office and disappointments. In March you West Melbourne for your continuing income as programs suddenly stopped. volunteers; and board members. Also to quickly accepted our changed reality and support. State and federal programs provided everyone who is part of a Centre program, dealt with it. You have continually kept support to keep The Centre afloat as from exercise classes to Errol’s Angels restrictions continue even now. For the Community Choir to those who stay year as a whole, the association reported mentally sharp in an IT class. Centre Staff, Contractors and Volunteer Centre Board Program Leads in 2019/20 members Laurence Angwin, Home Away from Stacey Halls, Community Development Karl Hessian, Chair Homework Club Supervisor Coordinator (from 6/20) Craig Barry, CFO/CIO Ragn Hannah, Operations & Business Lorna Hannan OAM, Deputy Chair (elected Anne Burgi, North & West Melbourne News Coordinator Oct 2019) Production Manager Ashlea Karosas, Home Away from Kay Oke OAM, Secretary (elected Oct 2019) Jason Butcher, Community Development Homework Club Supervisor Kathleen McPherson, Treasurer Officer (from 1/20) Frances McMillan, Foundation Skills Louise Cindric, IT Instructor Coordinator Bill Liddy Maryanne Clements, Errol’s Angels Choir Yulay Perez, SLF 2020 Coordinator Ben O’Connor Leader Tom Seddon, Centre Director Kate Ritchie (appointed Feb 2020) Tatiana Echeverri, Events Coordinator (to Carolynne Venn, Community Development Margaret Wood AM 12/19) Coordinator (to 3/20) Maurice Gaul, North & West Melbourne Mitsalal Zufi, cleaner Michael Halls and Malcolm Peacock AM News Editor (retired at the Oct 2019 AGM) 24 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Report to the community 2019/20

MAJOR EVENTS COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Docklands Pop Up The Centre obtained funding for two years (since extended by three months) from July 2019 to take the neighbourhood house concept to Docklands. Initial groundwork was done by Carolynne Venn and interns Ivano Abram and Jason Butcher, leading to the generous provision of a shop space at The District Docklands shopping centre in November. People found their way to the Pop Up as soon as the doors opened, which is fortunate since within a few months the doors closed Spring Fling again because of the pandemic and have The Centre has organised North Melbourne’s remained so ever since. In that brief window, major community street festival for decades. Carolynne & co made the Pop Up a regular Falling government assistance, rising costs hive of activity with weekly visitor services and a long-term drop in market stall hirers class on Thursdays, frequent all-welcome Christmas at Docklands. made Spring Fling for several years now by far morning teas, chair yoga, Christmas tree the largest drain on Centre finances. decoration workshops in December, and We announced in mid-2019 that a festival preparations for Bollywood-inspired activities that closed major roads and a tramline was for Cultural Diversity Week (our first cancelled now simply too expensive. Spring Fling had activity as COVID-19 started to bite). Bus trips and morning teas evolved from its first year in the basement of Still, a core group of by-now Pop Up For years, The Centre has offered day trips to the North Melbourne Town Hall in the mid- regulars had formed and as lockdowns were places of interest around Victoria and, prior to 1970s, and it would need to evolve again. mandated, the Pop Up went on-line, and the trips being suspended, Craig and Megan Around 4,000 locals turned up on Saturday grew! Online activities started with regular took groups to Ballarat’s Tramway and Avenue 19 October for a great day (until it rained) of WhatsApp catch-ups, grew into regular walks of Honour, J Ward at Ararat, Castlemaine’s activities in the laneways off Errol Street and in twos, then larger groups when allowed Royal Theatre (for Rocketman) on one trip, also the North Melbourne Library, the Legion (alas, not for long) and recently expanded to Buda Historic Home & Garden on another, and Hall and the Lithuanian Club. Not everyone include online cooking workshops. finally Woodlands Homestead and the Living agreed with taking the festival off Errol Errol’s Angels Legends retired racehorses in Greenvale. Street, and they let us know it! While Spring We also hold monthly social morning Errol’s Angels Community Choir dates back Fling cannot be held in 2020, we are looking teas where sometimes the conversation is to 2002. Until suspended under COVID-19 forward to 2021. general and other times there’s a topic, such restrictions, the Angels practised weekly Thanks to Events Coordinator Tatiana as International Women’s Day or the City of under choir leader Maryanne Clements at Echeverri and her team of volunteer Melbourne’s new Active Seniors proposals. the North Melbourne Maternal and Child supervisors as well as about 60 volunteers on Both of these activities were organised by Health Centre. Performances during the year the day, as well as sponsors Victorian Multi- operations coordinator Ragn Hannah until included two visits to the Peter MacCallum cultural Commission, City of Melbourne, suspended in March, after which she led The Cancer Centre, the Docklands Pop Up, Alexkarbon, Costco and Flexicar. Centre’s efforts to stay in touch with Centre Gardiner Reserve (twice), the Souffle Sisters patrons during lockdowns.” annual concert in Brunswick and Carols in Spanish Language Fiesta Errol Street. The SLF has fast become North Melbourne’s After in-person practices could no longer be ‘must do’ laneway festival since its start in Pilates held, they moved on-line and now Maryanne 2016 as the Centre then student intern Tatiana runs them jointly with members of two other Echeverri’s master’s project. The Centre in conjunction with City choirs she leads. In April 2019 some 2,500 people jammed North Physiotherapy offers a wide range of George Johnson Lane and Little Errol St and movement and exercise classes for all ages we had big plans for 2020 under new event and abilities. Until suspended in March, Boomerang Bags coordinator Yulay Perez. Instead, SLF 2020 was classes were held at the Legion Hall and Meat an early casualty of COVID-19 restrictions and Market, and we were soon to add the Pop Up. For two years The Centre has hosted a organisers spent a weekend pasting the word Instead, classes went online and that’s where Boomerang Bags group: volunteers who ‘cancelled’ over the fiesta advertisement in they continue to be held. convert pre-used fabric and donated off-cuts 6,500 copies of the News. The News into shopping bags and aprons. Now in its 42nd year, the North & West In late autumn, volunteers from community Melbourne News is written, produced and centres across the west and southwest of delivered quarterly by dozens of volunteers. It Melbourne – including members of our is led by editor Maurice Gaul and design and Boomerang Bags group (especially super- production head Anne Burgi, with advertising sewer Deana Eddington) – took up the call and local notices managed by Janet Graham. to sew thousands of gowns and masks for This team has been in place since the autumn Western Health. 2019 issue. The News focuses on local stories and VP Day & Anzac Day interests; it’s a paper by, for and about North and West Melbourne. In 2019/20 we also Each year The Centre with the Australian focused on getting it delivered to more new Legion of Ex-Servicemen & Women buildings where mailboxes are often behind commemorate VP Day and Anzac Day with security doors. a public ceremony at the North Melbourne With a current print run of 6,500 (up from Cenotaph. Unfortunately, public health 5,500 18 months ago), the News reaches restrictions have prevented such public thousands of local mailboxes and is also events, beginning with Anzac Day this year. distributed from The Centre, Docklands Pop Bundling up the News for the dedicated band of local Up, North Melbourne Library, NMLL, and local distributors who deliver the paper to local residents and shops and cafes. businesses. North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 25

Report to the community 2019/20

EDUCATION

Adult Education job search with other practical aspects of Home Away From students. Project books with fun learning The Centre is a registered Learn Local returning to society: the first thing we do is activities were created and sent to every provider of pre-accredited adult education get everyone a decent coffee and then sign Homework Club student in the program and each family was courses. During 2019/20 our Digital Literacy them up for library cards and email addresses. Homework clubs started 2019/20 with a contacted by phone and letter. We also stayed classes were busiest and in January 2020 we Workout was running well when COVID-19 new club at North Melbourne Language in touch with families of our students who started our first group digital literacy course hit. The restrictions were a serious blow to & Learning (joining our clubs at North lived through the hard lockdown of North at VincentCare’s newly opened Ozanam inmates as JLTC doesn’t have the amenities of Melbourne Library, The Centre and Altona Melbourne’s community housing towers in House. We also tried out new Introduction to other prisons for engagement and recreation. North) thanks to the support of the RE Ross July and continue to stay in touch today. Accounting & Bookkeeping and Introduction They became depressed and despondent. Trust. As 2020 approached, we prepared to There was a window in June when to Customer Service courses. Lou Cindric and Frances McMillan worked start a fifth club at the Docklands Library. restrictions eased but the libraries could not We also offer one-on-one IT training both at with JLTC staff to obtain permission to bring But then came March and the challenges accommodate us with social distancing rules. The Centre and on-site at the Salvation Army’s the program inside JLTC during the lockdown, presented by COVID-19. Many suggested Miraculously, the West Melbourne Baptist Flagstaff Accommodation. which also involved purchasing or loaning that homework clubs should go online (and Church offered the use of its large community While some one-on-one IT sessions were Centre IT equipment to allow access to wi-fi. some did) but that would not work for our hall. This worked very well for the North able to resume in June, they and our other Responding to a request for more style of club, or many of our students and Melbourne groups but was short-lived as we classes have otherwise all been suspended engagement, the Workout 2 Community their families. Our schools also advised against were unable to reopen for term 3. since March due to COVID-19, although tutor Connections project enabled the men this, feeling children had enough to do and Thanks to the homework club team, without Louise Cindric stays in touch and supports our to enjoy constructing and packaging 50 uncertainty about the cyber safety aspect of whom nothing in our club is possible. students during this time. high-quality Leggo and Meccano toys that communicating with children on line. There are five session coordinators (Laurence Thank you to Louise and IT class volunteer were sent to children going into foster care This did not mean we abandoned our Angwin, Ashlea Karosas, Hannah Merrigan, Shu Yea Law, also Centre CFO Craig Barry for (through the Berry Street children’s charity). Jack Yang and Amali Wijayawardhane), a taking the accounting classes and our former This was funded by individual community group of 20 volunteer tutors and a volunteer Community Development Coordinator members who believed in its value to both who maintains the waiting lists. Carolynne Venn for customer service. the men and the disadvantaged children. Program Coordinator Frances McMillan When stage four lockdowns were imposed calls them her “dream team” and says, “We all in August Louise, Frances and JLTC were all thoroughly enjoy our time together working Workout ready and able to deliver the program online. with the students and watching them grow Workout is The Centre’s program for The Centre thanks all the community and develop as learners and as people”. residents of West Melbourne’s Judy Lazarus members who donated to the toy project Also, thanks very much to the Errol Street prison transition centre (JLTC). This six-week and to the staff at JLTC and North Melbourne IGA, which helped cover the costs of food. program combines digital literacy and Library and to Faces and Places Café.

Left: The monthly bus trips included a visit to Ballarat. Above: Fun at Spring Fling 2019. Right: Errol’s Angels in full voice at Christmas.

Around The Centre office

Melbourne City Council kindly repainted our along with an upgrade to cloud-based computing. reception and training areas during winter 2019 and New computers have replaced our oldest machines we bought a new reception desk, sofa, tables and so that every workstation and laptop is ready for chairs to make the area not only more professional, the new operating system. While we are anxious to but also more attractive and welcoming. get back to The Centre, these upgrades will make Joining Operations & Business Coordinator Ragn working remotely a lot easier and more efficient as Hannah at the front desk were volunteers Karen well. We will also master the capabilities of our new Kirsop, Gary Dowling, Olga Migaliatieva, Reme printer, so we can produce our own posters and Sanchez-Romero, Shu Yea Law, Hoang Nguyen and banners for the front window, which will also get a Eila Yarnell. video display. The newly refreshed downstairs areas were the Centre interns in 2019/20: Regina Pang and Jason official reason for our 2019 December wind-up open Ng from Hong Kong Baptist University (pictured at house evening. right); Jenny Zhu from Melbourne University; and Errol Street came late to the NBN party, but that from Victoria University and Polytechnic there were upgrade to Centre connectivity is happening now, Ivano Abram, Jason Butcher, and Thilini Vithanage. 26 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

Report to the community 2019/20 Centre benefits from new grant sources

Kath McPherson, Centre Treasurer The Centre – Summary Financial Data Despite the challenges this year, The Centre 2019/20 2018/19 2017/18 2016/17 2015/16 2014/15 2013/14 2012/13 has returned as surplus of $51,762. You can $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ see from the summary of recent years’ results Income 556,079 518,988 497,509 518,152 522,839 468,903 431,295 351,192 in the table at right that this has been driven by a 7.1% growth in income. This largely due Expenditure 504,317 564,688 536,880 507,697 472,605 408,677 466,419 482,760 to work done prior to this year sourcing new Surplus /(Deficit) 51,762 (45,700) (39,371) 10,455 50,234 60,226 (35,124) (131,568) grant income. Assets 205,938 157,640 199,082 262,112 271,805 237,387 195,331 139,036 Funding from the City of Melbourne to Liabilities 92,177 95,641 91,383 115,043 135,191 151,007 154,126 63,450 establish the Pop Up Neighbourhood House Net Assets / Equity 113,761 61,999 107,699 147,069 136,614 86,380 32,873 75,586 in Docklands was a major contributor to this growth along with some COVID-19 support funding from both federal and state governments. This growth has been despite regular activities are postponed or cancelled, Centre to report a deficit as it has done for the a significant reduction in income due to the the six months to 31 December, to ensure at staff have been engaged in ensuring that last two years. suspension of activities because of COVID-19. least a breakeven result for the year to 30 June our regular clients have been supported As you can see from the Summary Financial The Centre has not seen a significant 2021. during this difficult time and adapting our Data table, a deficit in one or two years will downturn in income overall because of The full set of audited financial statements ways of working so that it can operate safely be followed by a significant surplus the next COVID-19, largely because The Centre has a is available on our website. Our auditor again and effectively when The Centre and the year, just as is the case this year. It is important well-diversified income portfolio. The Centre reported no issues with The Centre’s finances Docklands Pop Up reopen. to mention that at all times over the last is not overly reliant on any one income source and reporting this year. I would like to thank Centre expenditure was down on previous two years The Centre has remained solvent. and this considerably reduces the risk of the board for their diligence and support in years because there were significant With cash and liquid assets totalling nearly running into difficulties during challenging overseeing the accounts and treasury of The programs and activities that we have had to $170,000 at 30 June this year, The Centre will economic conditions. Centre. The day-to-day management of The defer or cancel. certainly remain so for a considerable time to Helped also by Job Keeper funding for Centre’s finances and reporting is exemplary As stated the result of all this has meant The come. some staff, The Centre has been able to retain and sincere thanks to our CFO Craig Barry and Centre reporting a surplus of $51,762. Rarely With the situation still uncertain regarding staff and contractors since our doors closed our Director Tom Seddon for ensuring this does the work that we do neatly line up with returning to normal operation, we are six months ago. While many of The Centre’s high standard is maintained. financial years so it is not uncommon for The planning to remain in significant surplus for

ExpenditureIncome by Sourceby Category Expenditure by Category

2012/13 2012/13 2013/14 2013/14 2014/15 2014/15 2015/16 2015/16 2016/17 2016/17 2017/18 2017/18 2018/19 2018/19 2019/20 2019/20

0 100,000 200,000 300,000 400,000 500,000 600,000 0 100,000 200,000 300,000 400,000 500,000 600,000

Employee Benefits Program costs Administration costs Employee Benefits Program costs Administration costs Depreciation Occupancy costs Other expenses Depreciation Occupancy costs Other expenses

COVID changes the way we live

The arrival of the COVID-19 virus in Australia in early 2020 changed life for everyone in many ways that may have been unthinkable beforehand. Six months later there’s still no saying when things will get back to ‘normal’. The Centre’s goal is community development. In other times, that means organising or facilitating activities large and small that engage local residents, and playing a part in keeping the community informed about matters that affect the growth and development of North and West Melbourne, and now Docklands. Since closing the Centre and the Docklands Pop Up and suspending most activities in March, we have focussed on communication: relaying important information (or where to find it) via social media, staying personally in touch with dozens and dozens of Centre and Pop Up users, playing supporting roles where we were able to contribute to the work of government and relief organisations, and also finding where our programs could move online or otherwise address their purpose.

The Centre: Connecting Community in North & West Melbourne Inc 58 Errol Street, North Melbourne, Vic 3051 Tel: (03) 9328 1126 Office hours: Monday 10.00am to 6.00pm Tuesday to Friday 10.00am to 3.00pm North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020 27

Noticeboard Spring Fling will be back in 2021

he Centre is sorry to have to announce Tthat there will not be a Spring Fling Street Festival in 2020. This is unlikely to come as a surprise, but Spring Fling will be back – FROM THE DIRECTOR perhaps not bigger, but definitely better than ever – in October 2021. Tom Seddon We want it to be a community event, and how better to get there than with more our morning teas and monthly bus trips community involvement? So if you want to Don’t know where to look? Contact The seem almost a distant memory, and I know be involved in some way next year, whether Centre for advice: [email protected]. that many people found the second wave of that’s organising the festival, helping on I hope you enjoy this second mid-pandemic restrictions harder to cope with than the first. the day, or lending us your marketing or issue of the North & West Melbourne News – Hang in there, and reach out for help if promotional skills, email me at: complete with special sections on the City of you need it. Many different organisations [email protected]. Melbourne elections and The Centre’s 2020 and programs are offering everything from TheThe North North and and West West Melbourne Melbourne News News Spring Fling is hardly the only casualty of the annual report – and join me in thanking all someone to talk with to emergency financial isis a a quarterly quarterly publication publication produced produced continuing restrictions needed to control the the volunteers who have made it possible. assistance. byby volunteers volunteers from from North North and and West West spread of the COVID-19 virus. For instance, MelbourneMelbourne and and the the inner inner city. city. It It is is now now inin its its 42nd 42nd year year of of production. production. Readers’ Readers’ Exercise online! contributions and letters are welcomed. contributions and letters are welcomed. The Centre’s exercise program is now online, coordinated by City North Where relevant the News may seek Where relevant the News may seek Physio. You’ll need Zoom, which can be downloaded from the App Store or alternative opinions in the interests of alternative opinions in the interests of your browser. balance. Contributors’ opinions are their balance. Contributors’ opinions are their TUESDAY 5.30pm – Intermediate, 6.30pm – Beginners/Intermediate own, however, and the News takes no own, however, and the News takes no WEDNESDAY 9.00am – General Pilates, 10.30am – Older Adults Active responsibility for them. We reserve the responsibility for them. We reserve the Exercise right to edit or omit articles considered right to edit or omit articles considered THURSDAY 6.00pm – Beginners/Intermediate, 7.00pm – Intermediate unsuitable or when space is limited. unsuitable or when space is limited. 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Then SubscriptionsSubscriptions are are available available at at the the rate rate of of you could apply as a contributor. We’re always looking Fee: $75/$55 conc (eligibility conditions apply) for well-written stories about the local area, so feel free $20$20 per per year year (four (four issues) issues) sent sent anywhere anywhere Call The Centre – 03 9328 1126 – or email [email protected] inin Australia. Australia. The The News News is is distributed distributed free free to send us pitches and ideas or get in touch to ask for an assignment. for more information or to register your interest throughoutthroughout North North and and West West Melbourne. Melbourne. If you want to be involved but don’t feel that the written FurtherFurther copies copies are are available available from from The The word is your thing, why not join our distribution team or CentreCentre and and the the North North Melbourne Melbourne Library. Library. our social media network? 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Publisher: Tom Seddon Friday 6 November Friday 4 December • The News reserves the right to reject advertising bookings that Circulation: 6500 Publication date: Friday 4 December are outside the standards for a community-based publication. PrintedPrinted by by Express Express Print Print North and West Melbourne News is available online at 55 Jones Jones Road, Road, Morwell Morwell 3844 3844 The Centre’s website: www.centre.org.au • Email [email protected] for info and bookings. CirculationCirculation 6500 6500 28 North and West Melbourne News SPRING 2020

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7 1 Artists take to the streets Nancy Lane

treet art in North and West SMelbourne has provided a delightful diversion for locals embarking on COVID-19 walks. Many of the works are by 6 street artists who have become well-known, both nationally and 2 internationally. These images are just a small selection of the outdoor art you can discover on your local walks. Explore the back streets, laneways and car parks and you’ll discover an amazing range of murals and street art. As graffiti on a brick wall in the laneway behind Elm Street proclaims: “Art elevates the mind”. 8 11 Nancy Lane writes regularly for the News.

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1. Errol Place: DeNiro, by Cam Scale. Cam allthoseshapes.com/aeon_graffiti_street-art will be what I am) by Kaff-eine, who is committed colour chaos’. allthoseshapes.com/rashe_graffiti_ in Los Angeles and Paris. fintanmagee.com started his career in early 2000, painting large 4. Victoria Court carpark: David Spade, Wack to art as a means of taking social action, both in street-art; globalstreetart.com/rashe 11. Howard Street at Courtney: By Ghostpatrol portraits and figures in aerosol, oil and acrylic. and more, by Lush Sux, best known for murals Australia and internationally. www.kaff-eine. 9. Laurens Street: Melbourne train mural by (David Booth), a Melbourne-based street artist www.camscale.com.au; allthoseshapes.com/ drawing on pop culture and internet memes. com; www.cheeseagle.com; allthoseshapes.com/ Sofles, commissioned as part of the Metro Tunnel and muralist who travels the world. His website scale_graffiti_street-art allthoseshapes.com/lush_graffiti_street- kaff-eine_graffiti_street-art project. Sofles is a Brisbane-based street artist features non-stop action. david-booth.com; www. 2. Carpark behind Town Hall Hotel: By art; www.onlymelbourne.com.au/lushsux; 7. 630 Queensberry Street: By Jacqui with more than 340,000 Instagram followers. instagram.com/ghostpatrol; allthoseshapes.com/ TuYuloveme, a street artist from Yogyakarta, knowyourmeme.com/memes/people/lushsux McKinnon, who has been creating street, window www.instagram.com/sofles; allthoseshapes. ghostpatrol_street-art Indonesia, who has visited Melbourne. 5. Little Provost Street: Prince by Ahora Creo, and pavement art since 2008. jacquimckinnon. com/sofles_graffiti_street-art; www.spraydaily. 12. Courtney Street at Wrecklyn. By Vexta, allthoseshapes.com/tuyuloveme_graffiti_street-art who paints mostly in portrait style in abandoned weebly.com com/t/sofles a self-taught artist from Sydney who interprets 3. Webbs Lane: By Aeon Fly, a Melbourne local places. allthoseshapes.com/ahora_street- 8. Queensberry Street between Dryburgh 10. Railway Place between Roslyn and the world through a ‘psychedelic kaleidoscope’. who paints aeon-styled fonts and mustachioed art_graffiti and Stawell: By Rashe, a street artist from Paris, Stanley: By Finton Magee, a Sydney-based social www.vexta.com.au; allthoseshapes.com/ characters wearing Hulk Hogan style sunnies. 6. Strang Lane: Eris Quod Sum (Latin for ‘You who specialises in ‘fluid dynamics and free-form realist painter who has had recent solo exhibitions vexta_graffiti_street-art