VOLUME ONE NUMBER FIFTY-NINE APRIL ’08 CIRCULATION 22,000 ALEXANDRIA BEACONSFIELD CHIPPENDALE DARLINGTON ERSKINEVILLE KINGS CROSS NEWTOWN PADDINGTON REDFERN SURRY HILLS WATERLOO WOOLLOOMOOLOO ZETLAND Babana hosts Men’s Cat Power Health Expo live at the STORY – PAGE 8 Enmore REVIEW – PAGE 9

St Vincent’s presbytery after recent fire Photo: Andrew Collis Fire in presbytery, claims of demolition by neglect

Sarah Malik tension between the church and the neighbouring Aboriginal Medical Ser- Annie Kennedy, Frances Cusack, Patricia Blundell, Ellen Macnamara, Nancy Laszlow and Marie Ford Photo: Ali Blogg A fire broke out in the presbytery vice. of St Vincent’s Church in Redfern at Speaking on behalf of the AMS, Head 1.30am on March 19. staff-person Naomi Mayer said she believes the buildings would be put to Locals star in Erskineville Stories Three people were sleeping in the better use if sold and wants to buy the presbytery at the time but nobody was presbytery, car park and clinic at the Dorothy McRae-McMahon Local artist, Annie Kennedy, told other in so many ways – where you hurt in the blaze, believed to be started back of the church in which it has been us the story of the achievement of her didn’t lock your doors and windows by a candle. operating for the past 20 years. Saturday March 8. When Carl movie project and thanked the main and you kept an eye on each others’ “Outside it looks the same but in the The AMS clinic which has a paediatric Schwartz opened the night’s program, sponsors of the show – The City of kids. Marie, who had come back to back the roof and the second floor has and aged-care section has operated on behalf of Erskineville Stories direc- Sydney Council, Real Estate agent Ray Erskineville after some decades away, been destroyed,” said Father Clesio, St through St Vincent’s church for over tor Annie Kennedy and her team, he White, Purple Goat Design and FedEx was the descendant of one of the earliest Vincent’s parish priest. 20 years under the patronage of the probably didn’t expect to see about Kinkos as well as 15 other local busi- settlers, Henry Knight, whose name was The presbytery, which remains unused highly respected priest, the late Father 3000 people sitting in front of him on nesses who contributed to the night. given to streets in the area. with no water or electricity, will now be Ted Kennedy. the grass of Erskineville Park waiting The guests of honour were on chairs Another woman who told her story in further walled-off to prevent homeless After Father Kennedy’s retirement in in happy anticipation! They were in the centre. They were the stars of the movie was Elza Green. She was born people from using it as a shelter. As long 2002, the Catholic Church appointed all ages – some old-time residents the movie together with their chosen in Erko 85 years ago and has lived there, as almost three years ago, the heritage priests from the conservative Neocat- returned from far away and many companions – often old school friends in the same house, ever since! She was building had a tarpaulin as its roof. echumenal Way to reinstate orthodoxy people from present-day Erko with or neighbours who had shared the chatting with childhood friends Patricia “Sadly the fire is part of the on what was seen as the unconventional their friends and families. It was a earlier days with them. Blundell and Stella Wilson. Patricia continuing demolition by neglect of parish, much to the consternation perfect night. While we waited, I caught up with remembered her father inventing the this building,” says Councillor Philip of locals. some of them. Nancy Laszlow, who drain now common in all bathroom Black, a former South Sydney Heritage The AMS fears that the unfettered Before we watched the movie, Reggie starred in the movie, Frances Cusack, floors. Stella’s family had the only President. access they have enjoyed to the church the Rabbit from the Rabbitohs strolled Ellen Macnamara and Marie Ford were phone in the street and people regularly According to Sydney City Council the may be threatened with the new church past to a cheer. Then the Erskineville remembering days when families com- took a shortcut through their house to presbytery is a heritage building which leadership. Public School Dance Group led by monly had seven or nine children – girls get to the shops and the train. may make the Catholic Archdiocese “I think it’s a reasonable fear. We Indigenous dancer Terry Olsen delighted in one bedroom and boys in another. Talking with Frank Dean, also in liable for a fine for demolition of a don’t have any real security of tenure. everyone with a great performance. The They talked of an Erskineville which the movie, and Georgie Markham who heritage site by neglect. Our lease expires this year. We don’t school also provided a sausage sizzle for was more open and occupied by work- had come down from the Central Coast The presbytery and adjoining build- know if it will be renewed,”says John those gathered who wanted a picnic. ing class families who supported each where they now continued on page 5 ings have been the source of growing Daniels, AMS continued on page 5

New Media.

280 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000 T(02) 9262 7300 F (02) 9266 0778 2 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008

PUBLISHER South Sydney Uniting Church Raglan Street, Waterloo News Telephone 0400 008 338 Phone/fax 02 9698 8949 The views expressed in this newspaper are those of the author and the article and are not necessarily the views of the Uniting Church.

ADVERTISING [email protected] Sydney University plans to expand 0400 139 710

MAILING ADDRESS: 10 years, repeatedly rejected offers Darlington locals are seeking more PO Box 2360 Strawberry Hills NSW 2012 from Sydney Uni to buy his house. open dialogue with the University to His father had lived in the property express their concerns about future LETTERS for over 50 years and passed away plans for development. Sydney Uni- Please send letters and emails to: The South Sydney Herald. last year, but Mr Laws has thus far versity’s proposal to build a parkland Email: [email protected] refused to sell the property and has campus at Callan Park to comple- Supply sender name and suburb. no intention to do so. ment its College of the Arts has upset Size: 150 words or less. We may edit for legal or other reasons. The University’s ‘Campus 2010’ many of the local residents there, and expansion plan is already underway, with Darlington locals already furi- which will see the development of ous with the Uni’s redevelopment, it 11 new buildings on the Darlington appears to be repeating its mistakes. Campus, varying from two to seven This reverberated around when the EDITORIAL COMMITTEE storeys in height. The development University failed to be represented will hem in the existing public at City of Sydney Community Urban school, which is built upon univer- Design Workshop that was focused sity grounds. on Darlington. An open secret of the University’s One very irate Abercrombie Street Eastern expansion is that, when the resident, Maurice, has grown increas- houses that stood upon the sight ingly forlorn at the University’s were bulldozed, no asbestos was relentless plans for expansion into removed from the site, but was Darlington, describing it as the worst The old Darlington School hemmed in by Sydney University Photo: Ali Blogg simply buried along with other environmental thug in the area, landfill. “shifting all the rubbish it doesn’t Managing Editor Nicholas McCallum Andrew Collis housing within the suburb and Sydney University has also hinted want onto Darlington,” he said. replaced it with sports centres and at plans to expand even further. “Cyclone fencing, demountable The University of Sydney may faculties of Engineering, Business When the North Eveleigh site is sheds, pot-holed streets, containers, well be the best and biggest in and Economics. As time went by, released to tender by the Redfern diesel generators in front of terrace town, although it should be known the town houses of Darlington were Waterloo Association, Sydney Uni houses, metal-clad buildings look- that it has plans to grow even bulldozed but there remains one will be one of the first to pounce on ing like Stalag 13 and endless jack bigger. With its current landmass final strip of houses standing in the the prime piece of real estate. This hammering and disturbance at all large enough to be deemed its way of the University’s domination may be counter to the RWA plans to hours of the day and night,” are just own suburb, Sydney Uni has, for of North West Darlington. have the area primarily developed to some of the headaches he has had some time, been vying for the area Darlington Road is the remaining produce more affordable housing in to tolerate. currently occupied by the tiny and stronghold of houses within the the area, but, as another cliché goes, And although Darlington residents Co-Editor Dorothy McRae-McMahon unsung suburb of Darlington. Darlington campus and is surely “money talks”. If this expansion goes may feel as though they are being feeling like a veritable allusion ahead then it would be likely that it treated with contempt by the Uni- The University crossed City Road to the military term: “Divide and is only a matter of time before the versity, they will have to get used in the mid-twentieth century and conquer.” private housing between the North to the beast it has become, and took its place in Darlington. It has Long-term Darlington Road resi- Eveleigh site and the existing campus prepare for the Leviathan it will be slowly swallowed up the residential dent, Terry Laws, has, for the last would be swallowed up too. in the future.

Co-Editor Koori Radio returns to Redfern Trevor Davies

Phillip Fernandez

After years of wandering, Koori Radio prepares to come back home to Redfern. In 1982, 27-33 Cope Street was handed over to the Aboriginal Development Corporation after the Uniting Church Synod passed resolutions recognising Aboriginal Photography Ali Blogg claims to land rights.

Since occupying the site, the strug- gle of Koori Radio and its predecessor Radio Redfern to gain recognition and broadcast the voice of the Indigenous community in metropolitan Sydney has paralleled the struggle faced by many Aboriginal people in cities nation-wide. Radio Redfern first began broadcast- ADVERTISING & CONTENT ing in the late 1980s from Sydney Ben Falkenmire University and 2SER, both conven- iently only 10 minutes from Redfern. “But there was a problem because community people wouldn’t come ASSISTANT-EDITOR along,” said co-founder Tiga Bayles. Jessica Moore The Cope Street site was cheaply DESIGNER refurbished and soon became the Robert Young station’s home, which led to a large increase in community participation. PRINTER MPD “Radio Redfern allowed us to stay in 46-62 Maddox St, Alexandria 2015 our community and do our program- ming.” The station acted as a gathering REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS place for thousands of Aboriginal Reem Al-Gharabally Nicholas McCallum The site of soon-to-be re-opened Black Theatre Photo: Ali Blogg Jane Barton Sarah Malik people to share experiences, as well Anna Christie Ellice Mol as protest against social inequalities Ben Falkenmire Susannah Palk and racism. be complete by May this year. The recalls Radio Redfern being an such as screen printing, music and Phillip Fernandez Carissa Simons Michelle Freeman Claire Thompson After suffering financial difficulties self-sustainable project is aimed at enormous asset to the community by theatre production. Katherine Keefe Ben Walker the station was forced to leave and providing social and commercial ben- strongly supporting local people and “This will reinforce the sense of norrie mAy-welby Peter Whitehead the buildings were demolished. Now, efits to the Indigenous community, and businesses. The site is minutes away community, the spirituality of the land “We gratefully acknowledge the many more than 10 years later, a $7 million Koori Radio will be returning home to from the Block, and just next door to as well as the idea of a meeting place volunteer contributors and distributors redevelopment has been commis- ensure these aims are met. the Black Theatre and other organisa- for Indigenous people and the wider who make this publication possible.” sioned by the Indigenous Land Council Former Cope Street resident and tions where Indigenous people are community alike. It’s a good thing to and is fully underway, scheduled to Mayor of South Sydney Tony Pooley involved in a range of artistic pursuits have and a good use of the site.” The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 3 News On ya bike, Sydney! New cycleway for the CBD

Susannah Palk “This has been a long time coming,” says Andrew Dodds, of BikeSydney. Cycling is experiencing a renais- “The current council is very good and sance in Sydney at the moment. But has set out a comprehensive plan for as more people express an interest in bicycle paths … Even though we have cycling, Sydney’s CBD is in desperate had bike plans in the past, most of it need of a cycle makeover. was just lip service.” Adrian Emilsen, Ride2Work Project “One of the biggest issues [of cycling Manager of Bicycle NSW agrees, say- in the city] is the perception of safety. ing, “Council has been very proactive At the moment cyclists have no choice about increasing the use of bicycles and but to share the road with the cars. people on them.” Many are put off, as they see it as too “It’s one thing to build bike paths. It’s unsafe,” says Andrew Dodds from another to educate people about bike BikeSydney and member of the Sydney safety and actually getting them on the Traffic Committee. paths,” Mr Emilsen continues. “I think But with plans for a new bike path the council has been quite comprehen- connecting Woolloomooloo to Zetland sive in looking at both aspects.” set to start construction late this year, According to Council’s research, Sydney’s centre may yet get the revamp Sydneysiders say there is too much it needs. traffic on roads to cycle and people The planned path, will start at Cow- would ride more if there were dedicated per Wharf, Woolloomooloo, and run bicycle lanes. along right up Bourke Street through Mr Emilsen believes that once the Taylor Square, Phillip Street Redfern council’s bike plans are implemented, and Elizabeth Street Zetland. commuting in and around the city will “The cycleway is part of our ambi- be made much easier. tious Cycling Strategy, adopted in 2007, “It’s just as easy to take a bike into to increase the cycling route network to the centre of the city to get around. It’s almost 200 kilometres,” says the Sydney quicker, easier, you don’t have to worry Cyclists on Bourke Street Waterloo, part of the proposed cycleway from Woolloomooloo to Zetland Photo: Ali Blogg City Council. about parking spaces.”

Help on the way for Pemulwuy?

Ben Falkenmire Turnbull said. “It’s crazy it has been allowed to drag on this long.” The Aboriginal Housing Com- The Department told the SSH exact pany wants the State Government fees for the Pemulwuy Project, with Free Community Events. Booking essential for all events to waive $180,000 in fees for its a construction value of around $50 Pemulwuy Project for The Block, million according to the AHC, will be Growing Peace Forum as the cash-strapped company edges determined when the AHC submits Christian and Muslim speakers discuss their respective traditions and peace. closer to exhibiting what it said is a final capital investment figures. When: 6:30pm to 9:30pm, Thursday 10 April 2008 model for affordable housing. “Such fees cover the Depart- Where: Sydney Mechanics’ School of Arts, 280 Pitt Street NSW 2000 ment’s independent and thorough The Department of Planning said work assessing proposals, which Multicultural Art Competition Exhibition Launch and Award Presentation the fees have to be paid to ensure it includes ensuring the proposal is This exhibition showcases artworks depicting the City’s cultural diversity. can adequately assess and report on adequate for exhibition, consulting the submission. with other agencies, assessing the When: 12.00pm -1.30pm, Monday 21 April 2008 Community group REDWatch project and then producing an Where: Customs House, 31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay believes if the government is serious assessment report for decision,” a about getting the project up and run- Department spokesperson said. Chinese Cultural Day: Culture & Harmony IN Australia 2008 ning it should waive the fee. Mr Turnbull suggested the RWA Learn Chinese calligraphy, painting, crafts, guided garden tour, children’s activities The AHC told the SSH the company make a grant to the AHC to “fast- is approaching break-even point for track” the process. and traditional performances. the first time in its 35-year history, “Here’s a project that supports the When: 10:00am - 4:30pm, Tuesday 15 April 2008 and could not afford $180,000 RWA’s objectives in terms of afford- Where: Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour in fees. able housing and the Indigenous. I “We have resisted selling any land would expect them to be supporting Booking required Telephone 02 9246 7874 or email [email protected] since the project started up nine years it,” Mr Turnbull said. ago,” Mr Valilis said. “We are not In the 2007 financial year, the Other Programs making any money on this develop- RWA outlaid $827,166 in grants Peace Song Tapestries Concert, City Library Living in Harmony Program, Seniors Week Ball, ment. This is a community project. to community organisations, with All our housing is affordable housing. Kidspeak and Barnardos ($581,124), Cross Cultural Tours, “Living In Harmony” Cultural Experiences, Cross Cultural Workshops. We are doing the job for government. Mudgin-Gal ($70,000) and Centacare They can use our project as a model ($70,000) recipients of the largest For more information visit www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/whatson for other areas. We’re essentially funding amounts. saving them money.” Mr Valilis said the concept plan REDWatch’s Geoff Turnbull said for the Pemulwuy Project submitted the business community was tired of to the Department in November last waiting for a project that has been on year would have cost them around the drawing board for nine years. $250,000 if it weren’t for the pro bono “There is a general position held efforts of architect Peter Lonergan in the business community that they and others. want to see the situation evolve,” Mr The RWA declined to comment. 4 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 5 News Doggie disappearances in Waterloo

Susannah Palk very good at getting lost but not very across McEvoy Street in the middle good at finding their way back home. of a storm. Having disappeared for more than The other problem is that people fear According to Pet Search, it is quite three months Bronwhyn Bourke had if they hand dogs in, they will be put common for dogs to escape and get lost almost given up hope of seeing her down. So they keep the dog and wait during stormy weather. “They tend to pet dog, Bridget, again. for any news or information, rather get frantic and work their way out,” then risk it.” says Mr Jefferies. The miniature schnauzer disap- After an extensive search campaign When Bridget was found, Ms Bourke peared when Bronwhyn left her out for Bridget, which included a massive was surprised to find that Bridget’s the front of her house to go inside poster campaign, sent to vets, dog ID tags and collar had been tampered and answer the phone. “When I came groomers, doctor’s surgeries and local with. “Her ID tags had been taken off,” back out she had just gone,” said shops, Bridget was still nowhere to she said, “and her red patent leather Ms Bourke. be found. collar, which had red diamantes on it Several dogs have gone missing in “We have a 90 percent success rate had been turned inside out so it looked the Waterloo area in recent months. of finding pets in the first two weeks,” like an old grey one”. At present, seven dogs are missing. says Mr Jefferies. “So when Bridget Whether Bridget was taken or merely The number of disappearances spiked didn’t show up, alarm bells started wandered off is still a mystery, but both over the Christmas period when ringing and we got worried.” Elizabeth Boag from Doggie Rescue eight dogs, including Bridget, went Also on the case was Elizabeth Boag, and Lee Jefferies from Pet Search stress missing. owner of the local news agency in the importance of handing dogs in. “I met a guy in the park the other Waterloo. Known in the local area as “Don’t let a dog roam. Pick it up and day that thought Bridget might have a dog lover and volunteer at Monika’s bring it to us or to a vet. Most dogs are been his. His dog has been missing Doggie Rescue, an organisation that micro- chipped now and can be taken for two-and-a-half months, a couple rescues dogs about to be put down home. If not, we’ll find them one,” of weeks after Bridget disappeared,” by the pound, Ms Boag spread the says Ms Boag. said Ms Bourke. word and added Bridget to her list of Mr Jefferies reiterates, “Please give To get her pooch back, Ms Bourke missing dogs. dogs in. It gives them the best chance employed the help of Lee Jefferies, “Bridget is not the only missing of getting home.” owner of ‘Pet Search’, a company dog in the area. It is quite peculiar… Now back at home, life has returned dedicated to helping pets find their in one case a dog was taken from a to normal for Bridget and Bronwhyn way back home. balcony. I don’t know what to make Bourke. “No more adventures just at When looking for a lost dog, Mr Jef- of it,” she said. the moment,” says Ms Bourke. “I think feries says the rule of thumb is to get as After three long months of search- she appreciates home a lot more… many people involved as possible. ing, Bridget was found late at night, I still can’t believe we got her back, Bronwhyn Bourke reunited with Bridget Photo: Ali Blogg “The problem with dogs is they are wet, scared and desperate, running it’s amazing!”

Locals star in Erskineville Stories continued from page 1 selling rabbits. live, I was surprised to learn that back When we came to the movie, the in their childhood there was an AFL stars of the show told many stories Football Team which played in a Sydney like this – a touching and challenging competition alongside the Rugby League. mixture of kindness across the com- Frank played League on Saturday and munity and shared hardship. Obviously AFL on Sunday. the role and status of women was very He remembers school days where different. No women were allowed in the teachers were always called “Sir” hotels, other than in the Ladies Lounge or “Miss” and where the local police which was provided here and there. knew all the children. If he and his This even applied to women who had mates wandered across into Newtown served in the war. Children shared lives the police would reprimand them and with very meagre resources, none of tell them to “Get back to Erko!” where which stopped them from making their they belonged. Sometimes they would own fun, exploring their environment, be asked their names and one of their running around in parks and streets and friends was a Maltese boy called Charlie learning independence. Hazipadi (say it out loud to yourself). The stars in the movie – Marjorie When asked his name by the police, Lewis and Lily Owen, Elza Green, Terry he told them three times and the police Murphy, Frank Dean, Philomene Watson, wouldn’t believe him. Finally he said Arthur and Brian Dunningham, Frances “Charlie Smith” and they congratulated Cusack and Eleanor Henricksen have him on telling the truth at last! much to teach us about our history and People remembered almost everyone the way people used to live together. wearing boiler suits, SP Betting in certain Maybe some of these qualities of com- houses, children playing in the lanes munity life were among the things which and their mums going to one of the the thousands who came to share the The Clare Hotel on Broadway Photo: Ali Blogg many small grocers, leaving a modest night were seeking to re-establish? Cer- order for food which was delivered and tainly there was a respect for, and delight paid for at the end of the week. Frank’s in, the lives which they saw simply but father bought their house for £1200 in eloquently portrayed in Annie Kennedy’s The Clare Hotel – open all hours? 1963. Milk and bread was delivered to movie and a keen interest in who had the door and there was, of course, the gone before them in Erskineville. Maybe “rabbitoh” who moved around the area we need more of this! Carissa Simons media recently and is causing politi- employs security staff, upholds strong cians to sit up and take notice.” RSA guidelines and doesn’t allow peo- The issue of venue opening hours However, as the Clare Hotel’s owner ple to mingle outside after closing. In is a common source of resident Alex Lind points out, the Clare first his opinion, the anti-social behaviour Fire in presbytery anger, and it is no different with the received approval for 24-hour open- on Broadway has little to do with any Clare Hotel on Broadway. ing times in 2003. Mr Lind says they of the licensed venues, four of which continued from page 1 He believes the Church is operating were unaware that this needed to be are within 150 metres of the Clare. He Medical Director. “We want title of the on a profit basis and ignoring the social The Clare Hotel is currently applying re-approved in 2005. “It wasn’t until believes it is more to do with the fact building at the back. We need to be able service aspect the Church serves. to have its opening hours extended, Council rangers came in recently and that Broadway is a major pedestrian to use the car park at the side of the The AMS is the largest Aboriginal from a midnight closing time to 24 said that we were outside our hours thoroughfare. building. If that were to be taken from medical service in Australia and treats hours Monday to Saturday with a of consent [that we realised]. So that’s Residents dispute this. Mr Polk- us then ambulances could no longer get thousands of patients every year. midnight close on Sunday. what we’re doing, just putting consent ington says: “Much of the impact of into the clinic.” In case the Church decides to sell, David Polkington, from the Local back in.” extended trading happens away from “We have nowhere else we can put Daniels fears the future of the AMS would Resident Action Group says: “Chip- Residents argue that patrons take up the actual premises as boisterous them. That [clinic] building is vital to our be in serious jeopardy. pendale residents have nothing against parking space and that venue security patrons wind their way elsewhere.” operations. That was the one that was “If there are not many Catholics the Clare Hotel specifically. However, cannot address or control them when However, considering the fact that promised to us by Ted Kennedy,” says attending mass in Redfern they might we are concerned about the gradual they linger in neighbouring areas. residents have noticed little change in Mr Daniels. see reason to sell the property. That’s a impact of incremental changes to Mr Lind says he understands these the level of violence or noise since the Mr Daniels says that the AMS approached realistic fear,” says Mr Daniels. trading hours of all licensed premises. concerns, but says it’s also unfortunate Clare reverted to a midnight close, it Cardinal George Pell with an application The Catholic Church’s media repre- The cumulative effect magnifies the that five people don’t have a job while is likely that Sydney City Council will to buy the property or be granted a life sentative failed to provide a comment anti-social consequences which have the Clare only trades until midnight. approve the Clare’s amendment appli- lease but was repeatedly denied. by deadline. been so dramatically highlighted in the The Clare Hotel, says Mr Lind, cation for extended trading hours. 6 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 News

newspaper Greenvoice. The Greens, Ms Doutney says, offer real HAVE YOU HEARD? alternatives to exploitative capitalism, and the party’s policies are grounded in four consistent principles: economic and social THE FAST NEWS justice; sustainability; peace and non- WITH TREVOR DAVIES violence; and grass-roots democracy. “These are not abstract principles,” she Botany Road – Will it ever be open? adds. “When considering a Development Over the last couple of months we have covered the saga of the heritage- Application, it’s important to ask for listed Yiu Ming Temple in Alexandria, which seems to have been affected whom the project is beneficial and who stands to lose. Does it weaken by the massive development next door. About 4.20am on Thursday essential community infrastructure? It’s March 6, a major water main ruptured beneath Botany Road, Alexandria, important to consider the environmental approximately 20 metres south of McEvoy Street and adjacent to a sustainability of the project – mandatory construction site. Then a Recovery Committee, chaired by the NSW Police standards should be set – while Force, with Sydney Water and the RTA was set up. The committee is advising encouraging open and fair community members of the public about ongoing road closures affecting Botany Road, discussion and involvement.” Alexandria. Police media reports: “Following advice from engineers, who Ms Doutney is keen to point out that the undertook an examination of the structural integrity of a retaining wall, Greens are committed to independence. an area of Botany Road was sealed off. This was due to public safety “We take donations from individuals only. issues relating to the retaining wall on the Eastern side of the excavated No developers. No corporations.” construction site.” Ongoing traffic diversions around the affected section of In the present and near future, key Botany Road, between McEvoy Street and Bourke Road, have remained in social issues include programs for youth place with special event clearways and other traffic management initiatives and the elderly, detox centres, and dry implemented to assist with the flow of traffic around the site. The water that centres for the homeless. “A psychiatric referral centre in Redfern is sorely flowed into the excavated pit of the construction site has now been pumped Irene Doutney outside Redfern Park Photo: Jack Carnegie needed,” Ms Doutney says. out and an operation is underway to transfer existing soil from the site to a “It’s frustrating to see trendy little position alongside the retaining wall to assist in stabilising it. The next phase pocket parks – and the fuss made of of the recovery and repair operation involves further stabilisation of the that – when there’s such tremendous affected retaining wall with large amounts of sand. Sydney Water says that Greens candidate: disadvantage among the people, including it is investigating the cause of the burst main. On its website it is claimed Indigenous people. that “the ground around the temple has problems of subsidence. The water Sometimes it seems that festivals main appears to have been sound and its fracture may have been related to Irene Doutney and events are organised to placate and subsidence in the soil. There is a major construction site nearby”. We asked distract the community from real and Sydney Water what it thought was the cause of the burst water main. Andrew Collis respected activist for peace and social urgent needs. The response was: “You wouldn’t have to be a genius to work that out.” justice, with an impressive resume. She “I’m thinking of the new lighting We contacted the developers to ask what they say has caused the burst water Council elections will be held in is the tenant rep for the public housing erected over Redfern Street. It’s ironic. main as well as the subsidence around the area of the temple and there was September and the Greens are first complex in which she lives, an editorial Under the lights such disadvantage in no response. They are not commenting. As we go to print, Botany Road is to preselect candidates (Labor will board member of the tenant newsletter the streets. We now have new lights but still closed at Alexandria. Who will pay for the damage has yet to be decided. announce candidates following its State The Redwater News, secretary of the crumby boarding houses, few services Conference in early May). Chris Harris management committee of the Factory for people with health problems, When will things be back to normal? We will keep you informed. is the Greens Lord Mayoral candidate, Community Centre in Waterloo, and a mental health issues, drug and alcohol with Irene Doutney number two on co-ordinating member of REDWatch (set addictions.” the ticket. up to monitor the plans of the Redfern- The Greens are sometimes accused Wisdom from the Cross Waterloo Authority and development in of naivete, of being anti-progress. “The The Greens are hoping, for the first South Sydney). opposite is true,” Ms Doutney says. “There Rev. Graham Long from Wayside was on the ABC TV news as well as ABC time, to have two councillors come As a member of the Greens she has are finite resources and we need to find radio. Rev. Long explained in his weekly email to Wayside supporters: “I was September, a realistic hope according worked on the Heffron and Sydney more innovative and future-oriented ways trying to point out that our policy of prohibition of heroin was simply not to Irene Doutney, who with the strong campaigns, and is currently a member of managing resources. We don’t need working. In spite of all the money we spend on prohibition, there is plenty support of party members from the South of the Anti-Privatisation Working Group, more cars and freeways. We don’t need of heroin around. It is my view that the government could take control of Sydney and Inner City Greens, is already convenor of the South Sydney Greens, more competition, more of the same. We this market and starve a criminal class to death in one fell swoop. If the in campaign mode, and ready to serve the a member of the Housing Working need real alternatives to over-development government decided to treat all addicts as people with a medical problem, city she has lived in all her life. Group, the Council Reference Group and and self-indulgent investment. We need whether heroin or alcohol or whatever, we would be taking a step toward Ms Doutney is a well-known and the editorial committee of the Greens affordable housing, and in a hurry.” not only a more humane policy but one that would be more effective and considerably cheaper to run.” He then went on to ask the million-dollar question: “Why it is so hard to get a rational discussion going on this issue is a mystery to me. Why does a truly great Australian hero like Dr Alex Reg Murphy’s future undecided Wodak have his voice of reason, compassion and wisdom rendered to a voice in the wilderness?” I hope, as does Rev. Long, that “Maybe one day public discussion on this matter will be more influenced by Dr Wodak who Trevor Davies played a pivotal role in saving this country from an AIDS epidemic than by City of Sydney Council is in the our plethora of shock jocks who are more interested in ratings than in any middle of conducting a review of concept of the truth or the common good.” community facilities in the eastern part of the city, and the selling of the Reg Murphy Community The Herald isn’t on your door step before you go to work Centre in Elizabeth Bay remains a Peter Beattie, when he was Premier, made apology an art form and it always possibility. seemed to work. After all, he never lost an election. His motto seemed to Even though the City hasn’t decided be: “If you stuff up, call a press conference, smile and offer apologies.” what’s to happen, Greens Councillor John Fairfax, publisher of the Sydney Morning Herald and the Fin Review Chris Harris has thrown his support seems to be doing a Peter Beattie. Last month the publisher apologised to behind a strong community campaign a senior journalist, Gerard Noonan, after accusing him of leaking photos to save the much-loved facility. of a decorating error to News Limited. Then last month it wrote to every At a community meeting at the newsagent across the state apologising for the continual lateness of its Kings Cross Community Centre earlier papers. The lateness has been causing real problems for newsagents. Many this year, attended by around 100 customers seemed to blame the poor old newsagents who copped a flogging members of the City East Precinct from their irate customers every time the paper wasn’t on their door step Committee, one of the speakers Gerald Coyne and Fred Warner enjoy a game of pool at Reg Murphy’s Photo: Ali Blogg before they went to work. So, next time your Herald is not on your doorstep was the City’s General Manager before you go to work, spare a thought for the overworked newsagent. Monica Boroni. Ms Boroni faced the meeting taking enhanced for the local community, not servation Society told the meeting: those present through the council’s used to line a developer’s pocket,” “This centre has social significance review process. She tried to reas- later adding, “I totally support the and has serviced the needs of these Finally coming down – the incinerator at Waterloo sure the meeting that nothing had local community in their efforts to communities for over 40 years. This Standing at a bus stop on Botany Road a few weeks ago I was pleased to see been decided. maintain the centre for the people centre was given to the people by the that work on demolition of the Waterloo incinerator has started. I, for one, The meeting, comprising members of Elizabeth Bay, Potts Point and people for the people’s use. It should am pleased. I was working as a street sweeper in the Redfern Waterloo area of the Potts Point and Kings Cross Kings Cross”. remain with the people for our in the early 90s and my health was affected – my asthma became a problem. Heritage Conservation Society, 2011 The Lord Mayor says Council was future uses. Residents Association, and local ALP responding to the wishes of residents “This council’s proposal is not I always thought what cheek two Eastern Suburbs Councils – Woolhara and members, condemned in advance any who attended a meeting late last year. viable, sustainable or acceptable,” Waverly Council – had in burning their rubbish in Redfern Waterloo and not proposal to sell the centre and called She said the majority of the people Mr Woodhouse continued, calling in their own back yards. I mean, why not take it to the North Shore, maybe for Council to upgrade and maintain attending that meeting supported on Council to rescind its suggestion somewhere like Lindfield, and build an incinerator? No, they chose South it for current and future needs. programs at the Reg Murphy Centre the centre can be sold off to pay for Sydney. I’m sure I speak for many people when I say that it should have Cr Harris told the meeting, “The being relocated over time. facilities elsewhere. been torn down years ago. Reg Murphy Community Centre in Andrew Woodhouse from Potts “If this council wants to create vil- Elizabeth Bay should be upgraded and Point and Kings Cross Heritage Con- lages this is not the way to do it.” The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 7 News

in Redfern-Waterloo”. Resident groups would still like to meet with the Minister but he seems to prefer the company of the Redfern Waterloo Chamber of Commerce than department tenants. However, this year the Minister wasn’t so shy. Last month he visited the area to announce a new anti-graffiti program. The program includes photo- graphing graffiti ‘tags’ before painting over them. A joint partnership has been estab- lished between Housing NSW and Redfern Police to run a pilot program to combat illegal graffiti in and around the Marton Building on Cope Street, Redfern. The Minister said: “Like everyone else, public housing residents deserve to live in a building that is free from graffiti. “Under the new partnership, Housing NSW and Redfern Police will pursue anyone who is found to be responsible for graffiti attacks on the Marton Build- ing. The public areas of the building will be inspected regularly for graffiti, any of which will be photographed, reported to the Police Assistance Line and removed within 48 hours of identification.” A temporary sticker on illegal graffiti will send a message to perpetrators that Matt Brown with residents at the Marton Building in Redfern Photo: Esther Turnbull “this graffiti has been reported and police are investigating”. The trial is in response to community concerns about the level of graffiti in Waterloo and the inner city. Local Writing on the wall for Housing Minister residents are encouraged to report any illegal activity to the police. A review Trevor Davies Chamber of Commerce, the SSH would take place. A request for a photo the community and undermine public of the pilot will be held at the end of approached the Minister’s department of the Minister and his hosts was met housing in the area despite Planning June 2008. It was late last year. On learn- for information. with resistance. Minister Frank Sartor stating at a The SSH would encourage the Minis- ing that Matt Brown, Minister for Local residents are concerned the recent estimates committee meeting ter to meet with the residents to discuss Housing, was to tour Waterloo with The department first denied plans Government’s long-term plan to mix that “there is no intention at all to the ongoing concerns that residents members of the Redfern Waterloo for the meeting, only to then concede it public and private housing will polarise reduce the amount of public housing have about the future of the estate. Sydney grog controls: a no woman’s land

Jo Holder is no sign of anything substantial on the horizon. City Council has control Abuse of alcohol is an epidemic, of planning policy. PM Kevin Rudd has warned, noting Clover Moore, as mayor and member, that police across Australia had sometimes presents as the residents’ expressed their concerns to him that advocate, but has taken up positions alcohol abuse “lies at the core of largely defensive of Council’s ineffectual increasing spates of urban violence efforts to deal with the issue. This has around the country”. left local resident groups and police as the sole campaigners on the issue. Kings Cross resident groups (Dar- Council planning regulations dictate linghurst Residents Action Group and fundamentals such as the number of 2011 Residents Association), local police liquor outlets that can be crammed and St Vincent’s Hospital have been at into a neighbourhood, how large the the pointy end of the nasty problem for premises can be, zoning and opening many long years. hours. Council should police noise Last week, the Federal Health and other approval breaches but fails Minister, Nicola Roxon, launched a $53 to do so. million strategy, including a $20 mil- Meanwhile, the Land and Environ- Alcohol saturation spreads into residential streets as drinkers move between 24-hour “zones” in Oxford Street and the Cross. The morning after in Riley Street East Sydney. Photo: Fiona MacDonald lion TV, radio and internet campaign, ment Court can play a significant promising to shock young people with role but refuses to do so. Courts have Liquor Accord and the local Business said cumulative impact and saturation open to make closing time earlier if the consequences of binge drinking. rejected evidence in several Kings Partnership. Recently the Empire Hotel controls must be introduced. These significant issues are raised. Roxon’s “whole of community” solution Cross cases where police and residents was named and shamed on the “Worst pleas were ignored. The promised The way ahead is to put political allocates $14.5 million of funding for have demonstrated that precinct grog Pubs” for violence list. Several other council “report” on grog saturation has pressure on the Clover Moore Party’s community-level initiatives. She says: saturation levels have been reached Kings Cross hotels are linked to other failed to surface. electoral prospects at the upcoming “The community has to be part of the and exceeded. The court position is venues on the list. When other local Instead of tightening controls, September council elections. solution.” that Council must introduce saturation areas close down, patrons are simply Council expanded the old Sex Industry This will require thorough policy While we applaud the initiative, King controls. And so we keep spinning bussed into the Cross. areas (introduced in 2000 in response commitment to change and energetic Cross begs to differ. In our experience further and further out of control. Kings Cross Command has long to 1995 legislation) and added new campaigning by Moore’s opponents, the focus should be shifted from In December 2006, the Court campaigned strongly against the areas – in lower Oxford Street and on Labor, Greens and Liberals. treating the consequences of alcohol approved a huge expansion by the very proliferation of new approvals, site lower George Street. Is this the promised land of global abuse to exerting some intelligence at problematic Empire Hotel. (In new consolidations and conversions (with The new Late Night Trading DCP sophistication, Sydney as a world city? the supply end of the equation. Rudd’s premises across the road, 21-31 Darlo change of zoning or use). The Com- divides the whole Council area into The tiny half-mile of Kings Cross now “call for action on alcohol” must involve Road See: Rifon Pty Ltd v Sydney City mand’s view is that the licensing categories, and assigns trading hours holds about 20,000 extra people at both State and local government if it is Council [2006] NSWLEC 778; http:// situation has long passed saturation ranges to each category. The trading peak times. (Peak violence times are to have any impact at all. www.austlii.edu.au/au/cases/nsw/ point, and is in fact “a joke”. hours for premises on the strip in the Thursday to Sunday from midnight). Grog regulation in NSW is a no- NSWLEC/2006/778.html). Late last year, Council pushed Cross goes up to midnight, with option In the next six months an additional woman’s land where supply controls Yet, there is near total agreement that through its Late Night Trading Develop- to go later subject to a trial period. 5,000 pub spaces will open. This is have fallen through the cracks between alcohol-related disorder, particularly ment Control Plan (DCP) against strong The Late Night Trading DCP is only more than twice the capacity of Sydney the State and council. The States are in the forms of assault and offensive objections. Police and medical evidence a policy. Council must generally abide Entertainment Centre. Police and largely responsible for the sales of behaviour, is by far the most damaging (including several major reports from by it in its decision-making, but can council evidence is that the other new alcohol. The State promises new liquor issue for the Kings Cross community. the Bureau of Crime Statistics and depart from it to account for significant 24-Hour Trading Areas are now as bad, laws focused on social impact but there The only dissenting voices are the Research) as well as resident testimony local circumstances. Council is of course if not worse than, the Cross. 8 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 News “This is our day to talk about things, our way” Babana hosts Men’s Health and Wellbeing Expo

Phillip Fernandez The testimonies of the men present varied from person to person, with men Rodd Island in Sydney’s scenic from all age groups and walks of life inner-Harbour was crowded with over participating in the discussions. 100 men from across Sydney last month Despite this, sentiments of being “left taking matters into their own hands. out” and “not being taken seriously” were concurrent with most of the men The Babana group, an Aboriginal present as services and solutions to men’s organisation devoted to improv- Aboriginal men’s health issues continue ing the lives and futures of Indigenous to be developed by government “without men, called upon its brothers in the sufficient input from consultation with community to come together and speak aboriginal men”. freely and honestly about their personal “Culturally appropriate men’s groups, experiences and doubts in regards to men’s spaces and healing centres are health and health institutions. an important part of the solution,” Mr The men’s health information day Spinks told the group. “Aboriginal com- began with a peaceful cruise out to the munities need to be supported and the island and a heartfelt welcome from men in those communities need to be the Babana group, Shane Phillips of the empowered and given opportunities to Tribal Warrior declaring, “This is our day develop their own practical solutions to to talk about things, our way”. the issues affecting them, their families Aboriginal health levels lag far and their community.” behind those of mainstream society Speakers addressed important health and Aboriginal men have the lowest life risks and spoke at length about the need expectancy and poorest health rates of for men to have primary health screening all Australians. checks including blood pressure and “Increasing men’s awareness of health blood sugar tests on a regular basis. issues is fundamental to improving Abo- Stalls also provided information on a riginal men’s health,” Babana Chairman range of health issues including: dietrary Mark Spinks said. “However, it is also health, general health and wellbeing, important for Aboriginal men to have prostate and other cancers, drug and a say about the way in which health alcohol use, sexual health, relaxation Three generations of Aboriginal men on the way to Men’s Health Expo Photo: Jack Carnegie messages are delivered.” and meditation. Sekai Holland goes home

Dorothy McRae-McMahon once again, the police have become complicit with the regime in intimidat- Last year the SSH interviewed the ing members of the MDC ahead of the Zimbabwean leader, Sekai Holland watershed polls on 29 March 2008. who had been bashed, tortured and “We hope that the observers to the severely injured by the Mugabe forces watershed polls, who only came into in Harare when she had been attend- the country last week with less than ing a prayer meeting at the Cathedral. two weeks to go before the election, are She was in Sydney for medical care seeing for themselves the true nature of with her husband, Jim Holland who this regime. Holland has not committed is an Australian. any crime and the latest move is meant to instil fear in the people.” True to her intentions, after she had Lawyer Anthony Abrahams who recovered enough health Sekai returned was one of the seven Australian Wal- to her home country, determined to labies in 1971 who refused to play the resume her activities in the promotion Springboks and got to know Sekai of democracy and justice for her peo- during that time is organising an appeal ple. She now heads the Senate ticket for in Australia to give her much needed the party which stands in opposition financial support. to President Mugabe. He says, “Since her return to About a month after her return, we Zimbabwe, I have watched Sekai’s received the following news release career, with ever-growing respect for from Harare: her fantastic courage and energy; and “Sekai Holland, an MDC national with increasing fears – unfortunately executive member and aspiring Senator fully borne out – for her safety. Sekai, Sekai Holland Photo: Ali Blogg for Chizhanje constituency, was today with Jim’s extraordinary support, has detained without charge for two hours been the spearhead of a great number Harare is taken up by activities aimed at Mango – which they make available to (Zimbabwe AWC Chairperson’s Fund) at Harare Central Police Station for of initiatives aimed at alleviating the benefiting others. Jim Holland obtains, a variety of people at low cost. Level 3, 377 – 383 Sussex what the police said was in connection terrible lot of her fellow Zimbabweans, by hook or by crook, old computers Street, Sydney NSW 2000 with the aborted prayer meeting in in the general community on the which he reconditions and then gives Breaking news: By bank transfer to: APHEDA Overseas Project Account Highfield on 11 March 2007. one hand – in areas such as village to various interest groups, in difficult Sekai Holland has been informed by her No2, Commonwealth Bank, Haymarket “On Wednesday, Holland made an health, water, the struggle against the financial circumstances, who need to local Electoral Officer that she has been Branch Branch No: BSB 062-006 emotional address at a public meeting AIDS scourge, education and on and be in touch with the outside world. elected by the people to the Senate of Account: 1004 9043 to commemorate the state brutality on …” He then teaches them basic computer Zimbabwe. She now waits to see the Send a fax or email to Lisa Arnold, of 11 March in which she narrated Sekai and Jim are two of Africa and skills. The Hollands directly house and response from Robert Mugabe. her horrific ordeal at the hands of the world’s quiet workers and they feed eight (initially 11) children whom Union Aid Abroad (Fax: 02 9262 the police. have asked for nothing in return. Their they have brought up as their own, after 1118; email:[email protected]) “The police released Holland after involvement takes place not only in those children’s natural parents died of You can contribute to the fund for confirming the amount and date of harassing her for more than five hours. broader society but also at an intimate AIDS. They have set up an internet Sekai and Jim Holland and their work. transfer and providing your address The detention of Holland shows that and personal level. Their house in communications network – known as By cheque to Union Aid Abroad for sending a tax deductible receipt. Cat Power gives soulful purr-formance

El l i c e Mo l an album of covers, highlights included Hank Williams’ ‘Ramblin’ Man’, appropriately Cat Power at the Enmore Theatre re-titled ‘Ramblin’ Woman’, Bob Dylan’s Sunday March 9 ‘I Believe In You’ and cutting the beginning of a Joni Mitchell song short, she changed her In what seems a tumultuous performing mind to sing the song she wrote when she met career Chan Marshall, aka Cat Power, has Bob Dylan, ‘Song To Bobby’, the only song that battled alcoholism and onstage anxiety isn’t a cover on the Jukebox album. She sang it over the years. Despite faltering on her with an incredible and beautifully searing voice. Australian tour five years ago, she has Amusing the audience with her impression managed to pick up the pieces, and her of the Australian accent Chan Marshall Sydney fans have maintained support. charmed her way through the set. With phrases like, “Welcome, welcome schmelcome”, Admittedly, there was some uncertainty she assured the audience she wasn’t going as to whether she would even appear anywhere and thanked them for coming back. on stage, with comments from the row Powerfully affecting and secure in its behind me that she would need a sports own right was the Dirty Delta Blues, psychologist to prepare her for the game. Cat Power’s band. Drummer Jim White However, after waiting an hour after proved a strong asset as he was left alone the support act had packed up, Cat Power on stage to carry a groove before the rest of bounded onto the stage to rapturous the band reappeared for an encore. At least applause, and when the band began fans weren’t left holding their breath in to play she was instantly forgiven. anticipation because it was obvious Cat and Beguiling the audience with fancy the band would return. And return they did. pirouettes across the stage, she gamboled Finishing with one of the most generous on her toes from side to side, sprightly and encores, Cat Power led with some old favourites confident in her step and in her song. from her best-selling album, The Greatest, In the tradition of southern soul, Cat Power much to the delight of the audience. Among has taken influences from some of the world’s the last songs were ‘Where Is My Love’, greatest songwriters to date, blending the ‘The Greatest’, ‘Lived In Bars’, and ‘The Moon’, classics with the unsurpassable, raw, sensuous delivered with soulful beauty, she sang from sound of her voice. Her sound is effortless and somewhere deep inside. She closed with a cover it’s easy to see why she is famous for her vocal of Otis Redding’s ‘I’ve Been Loving You For flexibility as she played to the sensibilities of Too Long’ before showering the front row with the audience at a packed Enmore Theatre. flowers and blowing kisses to her adoring fans. Photo: Steve Gullick Featuring tracks off her latest, Jukebox, Sweet and soulful. Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings Raise the roof with the funk

El l i c e Mo l guitar, Neal Sugarman on tenor sax, Dave them off the stage when she’d had enough Guy on trumpet and Bosco Mann aka – it was sass and cheerfulness galore. Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings Gabriel Roth on congas and percussion. With instruments in hand, the Dap at the Enmore Theatre Spurred on by Ms Jones herself, congo Kings look like they have taken some Wednesday March 12 player, Bosco Mann, gave the packed-out swingin’, rhythmic moves straight from Enmore something to cheer about with the the original Blues Brothers Band formed Armed with one of the hardest-working most incredible conga solo on the planet. in the late ’70s; the band that inspired the bands currently touring the southern With more soul than a shop full of feature film of the same name in 1980 hemisphere Sharon Jones has built up a shoes Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings starring Dan Akroyd and John Belusshi huge fan-base among Sydney-siders. allured the audience with their onstage and featuring world class musicians like antics, faultless timing and straight-up multi-instrumentalist, Tom “Bones” Malone Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings are funky rhythms, featuring tracks from on trombone, trumpet and sax, and Matt a consortium of world-class musicians, their latest album 100 Days, 100 Nights. “Guitar” Murphy on lead and rhythm guitar. building an incomparable reputation as Largely composed by members of the During their stunning performance, frontrunners in old-school soul and funk. Dap Kings, the songs were sung with highlights included songs ‘Be Easy’, And they looked a million bucks, too the depth and splendour they deserved ‘Answer Me’ and the title track from their – a visual delight in chic ’70s satin shirts, by the unmatched vocals of Ms Jones. latest work, ‘100 Days, 100 Nights’. waistcoats, fine-pressed trousers, bequeathed Playing to audiences since the ’70s this A powerhouse of soul and funk, Sharon with equally funky hair – mod-bob, beards sista of soul can flatter an audience any Jones and the Dap Kings played to the and afro curls. Ms Jones was blazoned way she pleases. This time, selecting a crowd without once letting their smiles in shimmering black beads and tassels. handful of Sydney men from the audience turn upside down. For a 50-something When the Dap Kings aren’t on tour some she proved she can handle any man, be he woman, Ms Jones has got energy and of the key members moonlight as members shirtless, toothless, pot-bellied or peach- vigour to match any professional athlete, of Staten Island’s instrumental afro-soul fuzzy-faced. Jones sang them songs about shaking her hips and jumping around outfit the Budos Band; including stand-out no good men – dancing with punters the stage with ripping mega vocals and musicians Tommy Brenneck on electric before waving them bye-bye and kicking humour and attitude to raise the roof. Photo: Dulce Pinzon 10 The Review April ’08

everything that’s good about Their previous book was the bestselling Overall though, the optimism documentaries. Like the original You: On A Diet, and predictably a and positivity within The Secret is moon landing, experiencing it is big part of their advice is related to refreshing, and the packaging with The Reviews something to share. It’s also perfectly dietary needs and supplements. the hardcover and so forth makes it suited to the big screen as space travel The book covers a range of different look like a Bible and a book worth Film Reviews act better. Ethan Hawke is excellent happens on a large scale, unlike a lot of topics, such as how relaxation and having. Best read with some degree of by Lindsay Cohen in Before the Devil as Andy Hanson’s documentaries that are better suited to meditation can increase our lifespan, caution on the last couple of chapters, despairing and hopeless brother TV and invariably appear on SBS six to how the state of our “telomeres” but overall a positive and enlightening while Albert Finney, playing their months after showing at the cinema. on the end of our chromosomes book that is on the whole consistent remorseful father, is also very good. In the Shadow of the Moon doesn’t can help determine our real age with mainstream psychology. It’s just a shame that some just capture in detail the spirit of the compared to our chronological age. unnecessary time-jumbling plot devices moon landings from the astronauts’ The book’s popularity is due to and curious editing distract from what perspective (they narrate the whole sufficient technicality in introducing Theatre Reviews Before the Devil Knows Your Dead is otherwise another PSH flagship film. film) but the spirit of the times too, the reader to many new biological by Jane Barton Director: Sidney Lumet Rating: Full-price admission, from Vietnam (such as one astronaut’s and genetic terms, whilst staying Starring: Philip Seymour 1 choc tops, medium popcorn, guilt at not fighting), to the peace enjoyable and even comical. The Brilliant Monkey Hoffman, Ethan Hawke, Albert medium drink, full strength beer with movement, politics and the space race. book is filtered with references to By Al Dukes Finney, Marisa Tomei a double whisky chaser afterwards. There are also lighter moments that pop-culture and how regular sex is With Al Dukes and Warwick Young Genre: From desperate personalise the astronauts, such as good for you. There are also lots of Directed by Jeremy Sims times to worse one who admitted to being the first funky diagrams and comics to keep the and Andy McDonell Philip Seymour Hoffman fans to urinate on the moon – not actually reader interested and laughing, whilst Old Fitzroy Hotel, Woolloomooloo do not pretend that he is a matinee on the moon, of course – there are still maintaining educational value. March 19 – April 19 screen idol. This is more than apparent no trees for a start and space suits There isn’t anywhere to particularly in the opening scene of Before the don’t have flies in any case. fault You: Staying Young. It maintains Men, Love and the Monkeyboy Devil Knows You’re Dead, a graphic Rating: Full Price Admission, credibility by being enjoyable, but By Caleb Lewis sex scene featuring PSH in almost In the Shadow of the Moon 1 choc top, medium popcorn, is sufficiently detailed without With Bryce Youngman all his naked glory (indeed this scene Director: David Sington medium drink and space food oversimplifying a serious topic. and John McNeill was judged the worst sex scene of all Starring: Astronauts sticks afterwards (of course). One of my favourite pieces of Directed by Christopher Hurrell time by one Hollywood rag – more Genre: Stuff of the right variety advice is how dark chocolate and Darlinghurst Theatre of a reason to see the film perhaps). When people ask me, “Where red wine (in moderation I assume) March 27 – April 19 Not since Harvey Keitel in Bad were you when man landed on Book Reviews can be part of a lifestyle that can Lieutenant has an otherwise respectable the moon?” I reply that I was on by Ben Walker make us live up to 35% longer! Two shows about Aussie blokes, citizen been portrayed so naked Apollo 11. That’s because the people or more particularly, masculinity physically and emotionally as PSH is asking me are idiots as obviously I and the way men’s emotional lives in this film. The comparisons don’t end wasn’t born then and they deserve intersect, prove a fascinating, mini there. Like Keitel’s Lieutenant, PSH’s all the sarcasm I can muster. sociological excursion into the lives of Andy Hanson becomes desperate when So for people who can’t remember the un-fairer sex. On offer this month his hidden world of vices and debt the moon landing because they were are Caleb Lewis’ Men, Love and the overlaps with and ultimately smashes either too young, engaging in free-love You: Staying Young: The Owner’s Monkeyboy and Al Dukes’ Brilliant to bits his public and family persona. or tripping (it was the late 60s after Manual for Extending Your Warranty The Secret Monkey. (NB: For theatre junkies PSH is overweight (and getting all), In the Shadow of the Moon is by Michael F. Roizen M.D. by Rhonda Byrne worth seeing both back-to-back). more so with each film), speaks in a about as close as they’re going to get and Mehmet C. Oz M.D. GLEEBOOKS $34.95 Al Dukes’ “brilliant monkey” monotone slur and has bad hair and to experiencing the atmosphere of GLEEBOOKS $35.00 The Secret by Rhonda Byrne is is man himself – in this case bad teeth (he never opens his mouth the moon landing (not the actual The two doctors Roizen and Oz the book accompanying the 2006 two brothers. Gerard, a returned in photos). It’s all so wonderful and so landing of course because there is have written a lively medical self-help movie and is not so much a book as Afghanistan veteran who is suffering un-Hollywood. He makes other actors no atmosphere on the moon). book on how we can live healthier and a cultural phenomenon. There are a traumatic brain injury, meets up not only look good but seemingly In the Shadow of the Moon is increase our lifespan by up to 35%. teachers of the secret and talk- with Danny, his sensitive homeless show figures such as Oprah have brother who sells the Big Issue. featured the secret on their shows. Co-directed by Andy McDonell The secret is basically “the law and Jeremy Sims (who presumably of attraction” where like attracts could be raking it in elsewhere, but like. It is consistent with positive thankfully isn’t), small production psychology in the sense that because company Pork Chop has assembled an of the self-fulfilling prophecy an impressive group of people together event is more likely to occur if a and the passion is evident. Brilliant person is thinking about it whether Monkey is actor Al Dukes’ (who also this be positive or negative. plays Danny) first foray into writing Nevertheless, The Secret perhaps for theatre. He is, he says “emboldened goes too far by saying all things are by what’s come out of this”. possible with the power of positive This is really strong independent thinking. There still is an element theatre which has benefited from of randomness in the world that is a lengthy work-shopping process, beyond the most positive thinking. intelligent direction and skillful sound Nevertheless, in a world where many design. Although the script suffers feel out of control and their thoughts a bit from a lot of telling and not are continuing a cycle of helplessness, much showing, Dukes has mixed the pendulum swinging the other genres – monologue, farce, pathos, and BEEN TO THE BUCKLAND way to thinking positive and feeling traverses a neat path between bitter more in control is probably good. and sweet, tumbling along for a highly The last couple of chapters engaging and entertaining 90 minutes. of The Secret are where Byrne With lots of dry humour, a crisp attempts to justify the law of spare use of language, Brilliant Monkey HOTEL LATELY? attraction scientifically. This can be has echoes of Alan Seymour’s ANZAC done by mainstream psychology, day classic, One Day of the Year. but she goes into the new age With tours pending in regional NSW, Things have really changed. misreading of quantum physics Victoria and QLD, and Edinburgh that is similar to What the Bleep. Festival whispering, Brilliant Monkey We’ve introduced Japanese tapas, a new international chef, pool tables and a new look. Come and experience the difference. Resource Performance Workshops Private Coaching Acting Workshops Jane E Seymour Actor & Acting Tutor MA,unsw;BADA,uk; ARTTS Inter.,uk

• Shakespeare • Audition & Call-Backs • HSC 9572 9049 [email protected] www.rpworkshops.com.au The Review April ’08 11 has legs, not just a great set of brains. Men, Love and the Monkeyboy by Caleb Lewis is a more blatant Antigone exploration of the relationship between man and apes. A strong first half had the audience totally No simple solutions engaged and anticipating a similarly captivating post-interval Act 2 … SSH obligation and spirituality. It presents however, overly long resolution scenes, an argument between the rule of poor dramaturgy and a descent into Company B is delighted to law and individual idealism, and near soap at times undercut the welcome 2006 Helpmann Award- shows us that there are no simple sympathy for sensitive, delta male, winner Deborah Mailman back solutions.” – Chris Cohen. Philly, (played by the wonderful Bryce to Belvoir St Theatre this April Company B’s Antigone incidentally Youngman) and his struggle with his as the third play in Company opens at Belvoir St Theatre during family of unreconstructed blokes. B’s acclaimed 2008 Season, the 26th annual Greek Festival of The trials of poor Philly (it’s a Antigone, delivers audiences a Sydney, which takes place from relief when he finally shouts at his fresh, contemporary rediscovery March 29 to the end of May. sister: “Phillip! My name is Phillip!”) of arguably the greatest Ancient are horrendous to witness. Gross Greek classic in theatre history. ANTIGONE SEASON INFORMATION bastardisation dressed up as birthday “Antigone has resurfaced time and Season dates April 10 – May 25 pranks, his Dad’s insistence on foisting time again throughout history, in Venue Belvoir St Theatre, porn onto him, his “best friend” Rex’s many different contexts, because at 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills sexual humiliation of him make him its heart are the questions which have TICKETS BOOKINGS 9699 3444 the butt (quite literally as his nickname always confounded us – questions or www.belvoir.com.au Deborah Mailman Photo: Company B is Sphincter Boy) of all jokes. of citizenship, family, love, regret, Lewis has manfully grappled with the state of contemporary masculinity and the intellectual food for thought he offers the audience is gratefully consumed. Other than the obvious Director, Chris Hurrell, normally measured in his handling of emotional denouement seemed to lose control of Artist Profile: Bill Brown the last 20 minutes of this production, with the result being that in the end, the gorillas got the upper hand. Ka t h e r i n e Kee f e was in exile from the art world However, despite this, the staging, but I’m actually a defector… Yes, set and the legendary Velalien’s “I’m sort of an outsider in I was on the inside – I’ve been in sensitive, intelligent choreography the art world, and an outsider Biennales and half a dozen shows ensured that the high farce ending in the real world. I don’t fit into at the Gallery of NSW – but was at least well blocked. whatever society thinks is the in the end it’s not what I want. done thing, so it’s a private world, I want something bigger than and that’s what these pictures business, I want art to be art. Music Review show, a really private world.” “It’s the search for something by Michele Freeman other than the obvious. It’s really Artist Bill Brown talks about difficult to say and it may sound his latest series, The Ship of corny – it’s the search for a sense Fools, showing at the Wilson of beauty in all things. That’s Street Gallery in Newtown this what it’s come down to now. month (March 29 – April 20). “What I try to do is strike an Why is the voice of this Outsider alternative meaning – by putting Eden Land Artist – who doesn’t have a mobile images together which seem unlikely Laura Jean phone, doesn’t email, wears a funny … I may take things from the world Scotland Yard/Shock hat and who had his heyday in the but I put them in situations where Some albums can be moody in a ’60s – so relevant, right now? there is a different emphasis. way that makes you not want to put There is a piece of paper “I deliberately provoke change them on unless you’re in the depths stuck to the back of the door in in my work. I might paint the of blue, but Laura Jean’s Eden Land Bill’s Newtown studio which same thing many times but I do it manages to be a wonderfully moody might be enigmatic enough to with the idea that it would never Bill Brown Photo: Wilson Street Gallery album without ever being heavy. enlighten: “FFF” and “CCR” ever be the same. And so one can Haunting from the very beginning, in bold black lettering. witness change and grow, in an it invokes a sound and sense of Ireland “Fashion, Furnishing and enigmatic way, not knowing what it sums up the Outsider Artist’s stripped of associated value.” that brings to mind the names of old Finance. The other one is Craft, means but knowing it’s changed.” universal and continuing relevance. And what does the enigmatic folk legends like Pentangle and Sandy Career and Refinement,” says It is the writer Jeanette “The work of the artist is to see commentator see in his own work? Denny. But Laura Jean is not a young Bill. “That’s the two art worlds Winterson – whose own reference into the life of things… The artist, “That’s me at the back of the boat, Irish lass, she is a home-grown talent I walked away from … yeah, I to the Ship of Fools in Gut through the discipline of her work, sailing along with the megaphone. with a lyrical and subtle voice that won’t do any of those things. Symmetries resonated with Bill, is one of the few people who I don’t know what he’s doing, I don’t melds into the surrounding music, “I felt for a long time that I inspiring his use of the name – who does see things as they really are, know what he’s saying either.” working as one of many instruments. She sings in a traditional Irish style, shifting quickly between low and high vocal registers creating this strong, yet wistful quality. The whole album is an evocative and seamless folk journey. It manages to fill the space with a rich beautiful sound without ever being overly complicated or cluttered. The inclusion of the Haunting Bird Choir, who make their first appearance in the opening track, is a wonderful touch. They make beautiful, delicate contributions that are immediately apparent, but never overpowering. Laura Jean is an accomplished The Torchsong Country Soul Band rides again musician who has already met with critical acclaim. Eden Land will only Sunday April 20 at the Lansdowne (City Rd Broadway). cement this reputation. A beautifully With support from 6.30pm (TCSB 7.30 till 9.30pm). Entry free. The amazing Spod! crafted folk album not fitting or Sunday May 18 at the Lansdowne from 7.30pm. Entry free. following whimsical music trends, Sunday June 1 at St Andrews Hall, Balmain (acoustic mode). Played at Spectrum in Darlinghurst Friday March 14 but instead the creator’s own integrity $5 with other artists. www.myspace.com/spod Photo: Julia Wilson and love of music and sound. 12 The Review April ’08

South Sydney Crossword Crossword by D.P. Show your creativity at Paddington Markets’ Last month’s solution inaugural Emerging Designers Exhibition ( ) * + ,- . / ( ) * + , - . P AAR D I S E K P A RR O T E EEE A R H T A O L A E T E Saturday, April 26. From 10am to 4pm. Paddington Uniting Church. 395 Oxford Street 0 (' / R E L IIG O N L O B J E C T (( M H I R G S W A S U A G M R R () (* Paddington Markets showcases the very best of Australian art, craft, and fashion, 0 (' I T C H Y EF E T S T H E T A T N S O I E R G A D Y RR F P directly from the artists, designers and craft makers themselves. Paddington (+ (, (- A T L S W A Y C G I O R G I O Markets has been the launch pad for some of Australia’s internationally acclaimed (. (/ S H P R H T C S S EE E A D (0 )' )( designers. Now we are looking for the next generation of stars in graphic design, (( () C H E M I S T N P O S T N T S )) )* jewelry, furniture, ceramics, photography and entertainment, or whatever else H R T A S B I A EE Y C C R A )+ ), )- O V E R T S C U RR A W O N G your chosen field may be. If your work provides fresh ideas that show what’s O C R F L S K I T T M M R C H ). )/ happening in Australian design today, we want to hear from you. Our Paddington (* (+ (, (- N A P K I N R I N S O M N I A Markets Emerging Designers Exhibition is offering 20 up-and-coming designers the E E A R N T A H E I N T E A S )0 *' opportunity to present their works and creations free-of-charge to the many national (. R EEEN G L P R E G A NN T and international visitors on market day during this year’s ANZAC weekend. (/ (0 )' Send your CV and brief portfolio by April 4, 2008 to: [email protected] Mob 0423 832 646

)( )) )* )+

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)- ).

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ACROSS DOWN 1) Flowerless plant in pre-dark arrangement reveals a local oasis. (7,4) 1) “I’m queer!” strangely recited at a funeral. (7) 9) Doubts expressed when changing to sequins. (9) 2) Attire (a salad, a wound or yourself perhaps). (5) 10) Man-eating giants swallowed up by lesser gods. (5) 3) Remix mixer test for radical. (9) 11) Is Sue’s spelling analogous to topics? (6) 4) No one loses energy at midday. (4) We’re 12) Ten minim composition at any moment now. (8) 5) Yes, lambs form a flock. (8) watching Blow your 13) Heartless tychism reinterpreted for a yogi perhaps. (6) 6) Kyoto’s rail oddly conveys our original local inhabitants. (5) you all... 15) Symbolise 151 very loud to softly as on a precipice. (5,3) 7) Regular pick-up spot of the 308, 309, 343 etc.. (7) own trumpet! 18) Covered with messy blotches described by spy concealing ragged cloth. (8) 8) Apprehended delinquent retreads. (8) Send your band / theatre 19) Workshop its duo. (6) 14) Dribble in anticipation of saliva test. (8) / art bios and pics to be 21) Empty riverside setting is captivating. (8) 16) Appropriately tying lift inappropriately. (9) published in the Review 23) Offended as missed steamship becomes very loud. (6) 17) Expression of gratitude. (5,3) (All pics must be 26) Go into entertaining to begin with. (5) 18) Phillip, George & Elizabeth for example. (7) 300 dpi at print size 27) Youth gone rusty renewed. (9) 20) Methodically arranged dry role. (7) or will be rejected) 28) Dusty honey’s unscrambled here. (5,6) 22) Rotates runts awry. (5) Send to 24) It could be fun to sleep on this. (5) [email protected] 25) Groucho clutches an expression of pain. (4) myspace.com/thepetrox

it here, and that’s a good thing. After a reassuring glance at the huge white plates that pass us by, piled high with generous servings of hot and cold mezza, char-grilled meats, poultry, fish, and salads, we are in for a bargain on first impressions and size alone. The Arabella Banquet serves one, with a vegetarian option. It starts with three kinds of homemade dip: humus, babaganoush and a garlic-yoghurt dip served with warm pitta bread. Our palettes ascend to the ambrosial realms of Southern Lebanon. But we are quick to order a bottle of red. We opt for a Lebanese red in the form of the Fakra (Sav Cab 1991). It proves to be an extremely welcoming and drinkable drop of medium dry priced at just $50.00. With considerably less space on the table the next dishes arrives: the scrumptious fattoush salad comprising cold mezza (assorted Photo: Scott Winter plates of stuffed vine leaves, lady fingers, shanklesh and then tabuleh). With round one over with, it’s Middle Eastern jewel in Surry Hills time the for the hot mezza plates. After fresh falafel, lamb mince kibis and pastry wraps, we take a Sc o t t Wi n t e r Owner (and local “Lawrence of by his ever-pleasing behaviour. in the window leaves us assuming breath and conclude the kitchen Arabella”) Mohumed Zouhour, will The Newtown site was honoured an upper mid price range, but staff are deserving of a cash tip. Arabella on Crown always make sure you are warmly with the title of Number One we are pleasantly surprised by a Then the dessert storm arrives. 488 Crown St Surry Hills received and are exceptionally well Arabic Restaurant ’07 in NSW by moderately priced menu around the A mix-marinated grill of large fresh attended to, either by himself, or his the Arabic Telegraph, as well as $20 mark and an affordable wine succulent prawns, free range chicken, Arabella has all the gleam, colour, nervous yet attentive, waiting staff. having two Sydney Morning Herald list where BYO is also an option. cubed and marinated lamb and beef, bubbly pipes, Lebanese coffee pots Mohumed’s hopes of making reviews under its belt. We can Unlike Arabella’s next-door homemade (everything is homemade and intricate wooden blinds that Crown Street the new sister forgive Mohumed for having a neighbour, a popular sushi bar here) Turkish delight and baklava you might expect to find in a place restaurant to the successful Arabella lot on his plate to live up to. restaurant, you get a sense of being are feverishly washed down with a that classes itself “Modern Arabic”. Kings Street (Newtown) is evidenced The framed Award for Excellence able to get a table when you want potent little cup of Lebanese coffee. The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 13

News cont’d Protesting “punitive” welfare reforms Sarah Malik

About 50 protestors crowded outside Redfern Centrelink offices on March 13 to protest the Government’s expansion of welfare reforms, aimed at Aboriginal communities. The reforms, which include the quarantining of Indigenous welfare payments under a food ration system, are set to be exported to Queensland and Western Australia.

The protest was part of a campaign held at Centrelink offices nationwide, protesting against the Federal govern- ment’s continuation of the Howard-era intervention laws passed in August last year. “This dehumanising process of using ration cards is demeaning for the Aboriginal community,” said Greg Eatock of the Aboriginal Rights Coalition. “It shows a lack of political will and is inconsistent with the Labor Government’s election platform about [Indigenous] self- governance.” The intervention laws, passed in August last year as the Northern Ter- ritory Emergency Response Bill 2007, included bans on alcohol and X-rated pornography in 73 Aboriginal townships, the takeover of Aboriginal community leases and quarantining of Aboriginal Greg Eatock, Alex Bainbridge and Darren Bloomfeld Photo: Andrew Collis welfare payments in the Northern Territory. intervention laws was contradictory to Education Centre. speech. Our only concern is that we can ner,” said Paul Creedon, a spokesperson Activists were concerned at the Labor’s promises in the apology. “One “These reforms are very similar to the conduct our business in a peaceful man- for Centrelink. implication the welfare reforms would month ago I watched in awe as our protectionist reforms our grandfather’s have for welfare rights in general. “I Prime-Minister issued a heartfelt apology fought…Our people will continue to think the racist nature of this policy and to the Stolen Generations. I wanted to fight and defeat the very government the extreme punitive nature of this policy believe we can heal… As I stood in the that seeks to deny our humanity.” has implications for all of Australian Press Gallery on 13 February I wanted A Centrelink spokesperson declined to Rosebery residents society,” said Paddy Gibson. to believe all of these attacks on our comment on the welfare expansion. Others were concerned that the humanity would end,” said Nicole “Centrelink’s position is that we failure to repeal the Northern Territory Watson of the Jumbunna Aboriginal encourage people to have freedom of take action

Nicholas McCallum The RRAG is gravely concerned with the development of Green Rosebery would have been Square because it has the potential considered a sleepy little suburb, to overwhelm Rosebery and its once upon a time. But lately its neighbours with convention centres residents have been appropriately and giant apartment complexes of 10 puffing their feathers and making to 20 storeys, transforming the area a lot of noise about the proposed into a ‘hyper-density’ urban area. development of a massive Hillsong The grassroots organisation feels Church entertainment centre and provoked into defending its suburb bible college. and its neighbours from massive over- development in the area that is being The Rosebery Resident’s Action dumped upon them with no concern Group formed itself, as a sign of for their village and its amenity. strength and solidarity, in opposition One of the founding members of to the Church. Created with only the RRAG, Graeme Grace, is a long eight people, the grassroots RRAG has time union member and has had grown into a congregation of more plenty of experience standing up than 100 members when its monthly to bullies. His strong stance against meetings are held at the church hall the Hillsong Church’s regional-sized on Kimberley Grove. facility has empowered his Rosebery While the catalyst for the estab- comrades and their solidarity in the lishment of the RRAG stems from face of adversity finds no bounds. the community’s non-compliance “People power, through action with the development of the mega- groups and ballot boxes, can be very church, the flock is also not afraid effective and can make a difference,” to stand in the way of other over- he said, “[And] we wouldn’t bother developments. if we did not believe that.” A recent meeting of the RRAG had As with the Hillsong development, an attendance of over 50 people. The Grace states that one of the main general topic of concern remained concerns of residents is the flow the Hillsong Church but other of traffic within the area. Already developments in the area were also exhausted to capacity, the arterial discussed, including the Corporate roads of Botany and McEvoy are Express Distribution Centre’s plans clogged to extremity. The proposed for expansion. development of Green Square would The City of Sydney’s Urban be the straw that breaks the camel’s Renewal Project has a special place back, except there wouldn’t be one in the once heavily industrial area but thousands. of Green Square. Encompassing the The RRAG is not against develop- suburbs of Zetland, Beaconsfield, ment altogether. It simply asks that Alexandria, Waterloo and Rosebery, development be appropriate for the the Green Square area is considered area, like the construction of aged- the largest urban renewal project care facilities for its rapidly aging in Australia. What was once a population. small triangular shaped park has With the battle over Hillsong still now morphed into super-suburb of raging it’s certain that the RRAG’s war its own. has only just begun. 14 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008

News

ADVERTISEMENT Waterloo Green: not a safe place Kristina John Williams Monk said police patrols were tasked to rather than their children removed. Waterloo Green on every shift, often to “Taking kids creates resentment Public housing residents near attend to assaults and alcohol-related and anger,” he said. “I’ve been to Keneally MP Waterloo Green are exhausted and crime. However, making it an many corporate functions where fearful in their own neighborhood, alcohol-free zone was impossible people are going on as crazy as the MEMBER having to confront drug dealing and because it was departmental prop- people on Waterloo Green, but they FOR HEFFRON public drunkenness every day. erty. “It is difficult to tell people are behind closed doors. We either they cannot drink in what is toss aside the people who are Many elderly residents in the 30-sto- effectively their own front yard,” struggling, or we start helping them rey public housing blocks known as he said. break the cycle.” The Towers of Despair are afraid Head of local Aboriginal training A spokesman for NSW Minister for to go out for fear of being robbed company Tribal Warrior, Shane Community Services Kevin Greene said Botany Road Update or assaulted. Phillips, who was born and bred the government funded a large Years of attempts to get the authori- in Waterloo, said the people taking range of services for children in the On Thursday the 6th of March 2008 a major water main ties to act have come to naught. their children along to a day of Waterloo area. A spokesperson for the A Safety Audit conducted by police drinking and drugging at Waterloo NSW Department of Housing said an ruptured beneath Botany Road, Alexandria, approximately found the area was so rundown and Green had little idea that what they action plan involving child welfare 20 metres south of McEvoy Street and adjacent to a crime-ridden, with lights not work- were doing was wrong. He said and numerous other agencies had construction site. ing and amenities in disrepair, that addiction was like waking up with been developed to reduce anti- legitimate users were afraid to go a light bulb in your face. You could social behavior associated with the near the park. see little else. And struggling excessive public drinking on Water- I inspected the site after the incident and have since spoken Acting Superintendent Bradley people needed innovative programs loo Green. with the RTA, Sydney Water, NSW Police and the construction company to ensure a quick resolution.

The road cannot reopen until the retaining wall on the construction site has been stabilised.

I am pleased to report that the NSW Police Force, under Section 61 of the State Emergency and Rescue Management Act 1989, are utilising their power to undertake emergency safety measures to secure the construction site and make necessary repairs to the wall.

The resulting road closures will remain in place until all repair works are completed to ensure public safety. In addition, authorities are asking motorists to avoid the area wherever possible to assist with minimising traffic delays.

Sydney Buses Information

Erskineville residents against proposed supermarket Photo: Benjamin Tedeschi The following Sydney Bus Routes will be diverted until the road is repaired: Erskineville “not a village in need of 309/310 from the City: From Botany Rd, right McEvoy, left Wyndham, left Mandible, right Botany Rd then as normal route. a supermarket”

309/310 to the City: From Botany Rd, left Bourke and Benjamin Tedeschi Brett Mason, a member of the action would first like to seek preliminary group, discussed the traffic scenario at expert advice on traffic. She addressed immediate right Wyndham, right McEvoy, left Botany then The Lord Mayor Clover Moore the Village Green, informing residents residents directly, informing them that as normal route. and five City of Sydney Councillors that the current Development Applica- “as decision makers, we are going to met with Erskineville residents tion proposes 30 car parking spaces, yet get the report and all the informa- on Saturday March 15 to discuss Woolworths would need approximately tion and then we will have to make 370 in both directions to and from Coogee/Leichhardt the development proposal of a 300 customers per hour to break even that decision”. will travel along Botany Road, Bourke, Wyndham, McEvoy. Woolworths supermarket at the financially. “Combined with deliveries The action group remains confident. north-western fringe of the village. being made by trucks and vans on an Since the December 12, more than 200 already gridlocked traffic situation in residents have attended community CityRail are also allowing ticket recognition between The local action group Friends of Erskineville, this could have disastrous meetings about the proposal and 326 Green Square and the City. Erskineville organised the gathering consequences for the village”. individual letters have been written and sausage sizzle. The action group, Artro Management Pty Ltd, which to the City of Sydney Council and to which comprises approximately 30 lodged the development application, Woolworths. In addition, over 4,000 I will continue to update you as further information comes Erskineville residents who oppose the currently seeks a 12-month trial of people have signed a petition demand- development of the supermarket, was 7am to midnight opening hours, ing a suspension of the Development to hand relating to the closure of Botany Road. originally set up to provide a medium seven days per week. According to Application until a full impact study for Erskineville residents to discuss Artro, no deliveries would be made has been completed, and proper, and ask questions concerning the outside of those hours and would only informed community consultation has In the meantime, further details regarding traffic arrangements Development Application proposal occur in a loading dock behind the taken place. can be obtained from the RTA website at www.rta.nsw.gov.au or and process. Well over 100 Erskineville supermarket. Friends of Erskineville spokesperson by contacting my office on (02) 9699 8166. I am happy to help. residents turned up to the gathering Local resident and semi-retired archi- Paul Howard says that whatever the on the Village Green, highlighting the tect Virginia Pearson-Smith believes outcome, Erskineville has achieved very broad community support for the that Woolworths would aim to its objective as a community, as the integrity of the unique suburb. monopolise the grocery industry in the council is giving a serious evaluation At present, there stands an applica- area by lowering their prices to levels of this proposal. tion to build a 2,138 square metre, that other businesses cannot viably Saso Bosevski, a local delicatessen Kristina Keneally MP two-level Woolworths supermarket at compete with. “The theory is that when owner, summed up the arguments of what is currently known as the HIVE they do that, the local shops will pull many residents aptly. “Erskineville is Member for Heffron building on the corner of Erskineville out, go bankrupt or move on. That’s not a village in need of a supermarket. Shop 117, 747 Botany Road, Rosebery NSW 2018 Road and Gowrie Street. The action their strategy.” Erskineville is a village because we group’s website states that such a The Development Application is still don’t have a supermarket.” Phone: (02) 9699 8166 Fax: (02) 9699 8222 development could increase traffic in assessment by the City of Sydney Email: [email protected] to unmanageable levels, impact Council. Lord Mayor Clover Moore For more information, please visit the parking and cause closures of the said that it is unlikely to go to commit- Friends of Erskineville Working Group’s boutique shops. tee before May at the earliest, as she website: www.erskinevillevillage.org The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 15 Comment & Opinion

GUEST EDITORIAL New spin on climate change

Adrian Emilsen 25 percent had never ridden to work before. Most importantly, 34 As Sydney primes itself for percent of new riders were found another Earth Hour, news of this to have continued riding to work “symbolic gesture” has spread to five months after the event. In other 24 cities across the world and words, National Ride to Work Day the event is now considered a has provided an incentive to move global movement. people towards a more long-term Earth Hour aims to demonstrate behavioural change – with the what tangible things can be benefits of improved health and done to lower our impact on economic savings. the environment. However, the Events such as Earth Hour difference Earth Hour makes is and Ride to Work Day cannot be perhaps more an issue of public responsible for solving problems as mood than carbon emissions. complex as global warming, however At worst, Earth Hour is a tokenistic they can spur on small changes “green wash” that does very little that make substantial differences. outside providing a “feel good” It’s important also to acknowledge event for those wanting to jump that change can be daunting in a on the environmental bandwagon. culture where so much of who we At best, Earth Hour is an earnest are is constituted by daily habits attempt to raise awareness about and activities requiring high-energy Cartoon: norrie mAy-welby the relationship between energy consumption. consumption and carbon emissions. Some critical questions remain. On October 15 another event Why restrict to one hour on March known as National Ride to Work 29 the turning off of unnecessary levels or abstain all together. Support for and irresponsible operators brought to Day will be held in cities and towns lights? Why wait till October 15 to READERS’ LETTERS a dry alcohol support service is based account. Now the State Government across Australia promoting cycling as have a go at riding to work? How on the need to address well-recognised has taken over management of the ATP a sustainable mode of transportation might events such as Earth Hour and Historic Rachel major service gaps, expert advice on the and is behaving like an overbearing and a means of reducing greenhouse Ride to Work Day move people from Forster Hospital merits of the dry alcohol support service dictator (as seen by points below) and gas emissions. feeling good to feeling empowered model over the wet centre approach and refusing to abide by the legal noise In Australia, 34 percent of to make long-term decisions I read with interest the story about the feedback from local community service limits that everyone else in the area is personal/household greenhouse gas for change? Rachel Forster site (SSH February ’08). providers, individuals and street drinkers. expected to adhere to. Advice has been emissions are produced by private What is not mentioned is that this is where On the basis of this advice, the RWA and received that: car use. Last year an estimated Adrian Emilsen is a Former Ride to Dr William Redfern’s house stood until the the City of Sydney developed a proposal 1. the ATP offered one resident double 90,000 people participated in Work Project Manager, Bicycle NSW late 1930s. According to Judith Eland’s for a dry alcohol support service which glazing on his windows and free tickets National Ride to Work Day of which now PhD Candidate in Psychology) South Sydney (1975) “the old well from Dr uses targeted support and intervention to the upcoming MTV awards. This can Redfern’s house is in the hospital’s base- strategies and provides clear referral be taken as ATP confirmation that noise ment, and some of the stones from the old pathways to health, family and other cannot be controlled within the premises house have been used in the foundations”. support services and to culturally specific without further acoustic correction on FAITH Remnants of Redfern’s garden are still in supports. The proposal is consistent with the building; the grounds. A site of interest indeed! current best practice in the provision of 2. the on site acoustic technician in Neil Whitfield support for people with either a chronic attendance on the night of the March God of laughter Surry Hills alcohol addiction or other alcohol-related 18 function was requested by a resident issues. Clients would be provided with to take noise measurements from the opportunities to recover from alcohol resident’s premises. The acoustic techni- Dean Drayton the show is only a more intense form “Dry” alcohol dependence and be encouraged to adopt cian declined to do this; of what we all sometimes experience. a healthier lifestyle. The consumption 3. the acoustic technician advised this Who would have thought it? God Perhaps that is the fascination. We have support service of alcohol would NOT be permitted on resident that it was extremely hard to there on the edges of the media. lived this to some degree, and occasion- The March issue of the SSH incorrectly the premises, however men with an measure noise for many reasons and he On TV its Thank God You’re Here, ally with the flair of a comedian. Do stated that the Redfern-Waterloo Authority active dependence on alcohol who are advised that noise measurements taken and on Friday radio it is Thank God we keep watching for the next episode, supports a “wet” centre in Redfern as part not ready to stop drinking would not from functions at the ATP have exceeded it’s Friday. wondering if our own story might be of a range of actions to address the needs be excluded from the service. The local legal noise limits. embedded in it? of street drinkers and other people with community would be encouraged to have In view of the above I have requested And yet it is not the old, hard, Thank God it’s Friday is closer to alcohol issues. In actual fact the reverse a sense of ownership of the centre and to that the Premier direct the ATP to transcendent God, the moral policeman our own experience. Rather than the is the case. For almost two years, the RWA actively participate in its operation and immediately cancel any proposed events keeping sin in check. Nor the “God of lack of a script, the past week is under and the City of Sydney have been actively management. at the Redfern site that may exceed the the gaps” dragged in beyond evidence the microscope. The pressure is off, seeking Commonwealth support for a A submission seeking Commonwealth legal noise limits expected from everyone and beyond refute. And it is not the the questions have been given to the “dry” alcohol support service for men in Department of Health and Ageing sup- else in the area until the building is religious God with the organ playing crew, and we wait to have our week Redfern and Waterloo. A “dry” alcohol sup- port for a trial of the dry alcohol support acoustically treated and residents can be and the prim and proper clergyman deconstructed with flair. The format port service does not allow drinking on the service was forwarded by the City of assured noise limits will not be exceeded droning on with platitudes. highlights the highs and lows, the ups premises, actively works to divert people Sydney and the RWA in November at any time during an event. No, it is much more a whiff of the and downs of the news, played out from drinking toward other activities and 2006. The proposal indicated that the Janice Murphy Vicar of Dibley. God is there on the by the comedians, bringing zaniness, provides a range of incentives for drinkers service would be operated by a non- Alexandria edge of disaster, and at the extremes and new ways of seeing what we have to reduce alcohol consumption to safer government service or consortium of of the working week. God is there at already endured. The show has been services, selected by tender on the basis Hillsong Blues the point of no return, or when the so popular that it is now moving from of demonstrated expertise and capacity If an entertainment venue of an almost week is over (and heaven help us) a half hour to an hour. to effectively run this service in the local 4000-person capacity with no ostensible in each case these “God moments” So God is making a come-back, has the last laugh”. In the latter, laughter area. Unfortunately, the Department of religious purpose were proposed on the generate laughs. framing the past and providing a sends up, builds up and explores the Health and Ageing declined to support old RTA site, it wouldn’t have a hope. What is amazing about Thank God resource for the future. The obvious unexpected in a Leunig-esque sort of the proposal. It was however referred If an Islamic college were proposed You’re Here is that this Australian show number-one question that falls out way. And is this not “God territory” – on to a wider whole-of-government of a lesser size, and with none of the has now been franchised to other is this: Why does God work with the bizarre, the pretentious, the oddness assessment process in October 2007. The attendant issues of parking, noise countries. Australians thought of it first. comedians?! of what we take for granted seen from outcome of this assessment process will and late night gigs, it wouldn’t have a The uniqueness of the format is that God is even more explicit in the a different point of view? Sometimes if determine if the trial of this much-needed hope. It is testament to the economic the comedian walks in upon a drama Vicar of Dibley. What a task. Here, God we did not laugh we would cry. service can proceed. and political clout of Hillsong that their that until at that moment he/she was works with a priest who is a comedi- It really is worth a closer look. God Don Stewart excessive proposal be met with an almost oblivious to, and without a script, takes enne, caught up with not only the past lurking there as the moment reaches Human Services apologetic protest. Their emotional and it from there. The drama continues and the future but strange and ordinary crisis, just in time, in the rough and Redfern-Waterloo Authority numerical overwhelming of the council to throw up awkward questions and goings on in the present. And mostly tumble of life opening up new possibili- meeting should not distract the com- settings that keep the action flowing. she gets away with a truth or an insight ties. God cannot be held responsible for munity from the issue – it is a massive There is a fascination in watching the in this awkward caricature of a parish all that unfolds, but often surprises as Excessive noise from ATP entertainment venue which will have hapless comedian take on the almost that is often “close to the bone”. the tensions of life are resolved. an undeniably negative effect upon the impossible and not only cope but make So why is God into laughter? Graham Perhaps laughter is part of the medi- Not for the first time, a function was local community with which it has little us laugh. Garrett (another Australian!) wrote cine of grace for our time. Or maybe it held at the ATP on Tuesday March ties. And, personally, I find the “street It is a lot like being thrown into a about this in his funny book God Mat- always has been so. 18 which exceeded legal noise levels, teams” an intimidating tool of emotional new job or a new suburb or a new ters. He describes how humour ranges causing stress to residents. There have manipulation. social group. We hope there is a script, from the cruel and sarcastic to the Dean Drayton is from the United been many illegal dance parties held in Timothy Tyler Gates but there never is. What happens on ironic and the give-and-take in “who Theological College in North Parramatta the surrounding areas over the years, Waterloo 16 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 Features

A funny book with SOUTH SYDNEY ENVIRONMENT serious intent Carissa Simons Ewen Bland, who said “… that no City parks, not sylvan glades often subsequently means yes” 5,000 women marched when commenting on a rape trial. 1through New York City in Burgmann and Andrews have 1908 demanding shorter hours, been “keeping them nervous” for Anna Christie who has been frequenting the local Sydney has just finished consulting better pay and voting rights. 15 years, over which time they park for a number of years with the community on its views about 100 years on, the pertinence amassed thousands of shining or years I his two hounds (I won’t name the increasing the number of “off-leash” of this event is honoured by examples of sexism. “We also Fagonised over breed, as it might identify him) areas within South Sydney. way of International Women’s realised that we’re the only ones in whether to have a recently gave me a number of According to a City of Sydney Day (March 8) and events in the world to have done it, collecting pet. I had an ethical conflict reasons why he doesn’t think he spokesperson, the Off-Leash Parks cities all over the world. IWD it day by day over 15 years,” says about the practice of keeping should pick up after his dogs. proposal received comment from celebrates women’s advance- Burgmann. “It’s something that is adored pets on the one hand, Excuse no. 1: “He had diarrhoea, 1,527 individuals and organisations, ment and highlights the need impossible to go back and research and the industrialisation of ani- so I couldn’t pick it up”. How would with 73 per cent supporting the for continued vigilance and because you can’t just Google mal husbandry to feed them, he know? He was 100 metres away proposal, 24 per cent opposing action. One local example ‘men and terrible’ and expect to on the other. Why should looking at the dog’s head; I was 50 the proposal and three per cent is the Ernie Awards... come up with these quotes.” one kind of animal be treated metres away looking at the dog’s rear. offering conditional support. This may be why they’ve with human-like respect, Excuse no. 2: “Have you seen how “One petition with about 340 They say hell hath no fury like included the index, which while other species live and many sharps there are out there?” names was supportive of the a woman scorned, but forget to allows you to easily find the die in misery and pain? No, and how does that make it OK Sydney Park proposal and another mention that she often hath a great comments made by the sports to leave dog poo all over the place? petition with about 130 names sense of humour about it too! stars, politicians, journalists, and I will always condemn the But it was Excuse no. 3 that made was in opposition to the Paradise The Ernie Awards began when celebrities that you love, or loathe. cruelty of factory farming, but no me realise the kind of fantasist I Reserve (Pyrmont) proposal,” women gathered to celebrate Whilst women shake their heads longer suffer from any guilt about was dealing with, when he said: said the spokesperson. the retirement of Ernie Ecob, at some of the comments, men have owning a companion animal (or in “It’s only dog shit, it’ll go into the It is not much to ask of dog the trade union official who reacted well to the book, as long the case of my cat – being owned earth and it’s good for the grass”. owners to take responsibility said that women only become as they’re not quoted. “They’ve by my companion animal). They Obviously this guy has fantasies for their dogs’ droppings, shearers because of the sex. realised that we weren’t actually are valued members of society. that Prince Alfred Park, and other in return for the wonderful Now 15 years after the first bitter or twisted or grumpy, we As Lord Mayor Clover Moore has city parks, are some kind of sylvan freedom of leash-free parks. Ernie award was given out, the were just having a really good time said, “Pets can break down social glades, where clear brooks tinkle City of Sydney employs comments and those who uttered at their expense,” says Andrews. isolation, bring people together across moss covered stones, animals Companion Animals Liaison them have been compiled and As Burgmann says: “It’s funny, and encourage exercise which roam, and excrement is magically Officers who patrol leash-free parks published in The Ernies Book: 1000 but it has a serious intent.” makes for a better quality of life absorbed into the airbrushed on bicycles. They have the power Terrible Things Australian Men Have Andrews agrees: “You’re a much and a friendlier, livelier city”. biosphere. In this fantasy, no one to fine dog owners up to $275 Said About Women, by Meredith slipperier target if you do something Domesticated cats and dogs are treads on dog poo, and no children under the Companion Animals Burgmann and Yvette Andrews. with a sense of humour.” known to provide psychological are blinded by toxoplasmosis. Act 1998 for failure to remove Inside this small, pink, square book Andrews and Burgmann aren’t benefits, not only for their owners, But city parks are not sylvan dog faeces, but prefer to issue there is a chronological history of the saying that these comments are but everyone they come into dreamscapes, they are shared warnings first, and education. most sexist, offensive and downright reflective of Australian men, contact with and share the love… environments where the needs of And one of the lessons they absurd things said by our public just that those who make such but love is not the only thing that all users must be respected and have to teach some dog owners figures. The comments range from the comments shouldn’t be allowed some pets are sharing, thanks balanced. Recognising this, City of is: it’s a city park, not Fantasia. ridiculous, such as former Treasurer to get away with it. Whether you to some irresponsible owners. Peter Costello telling women to call it an “Anthology of Misogyny” There are still some dog owners “have one for the husband, one for like Burgmann, or a “Portfolio of who refuse to pick up and take If you would like to suggest environmental issues in South Sydney that need investigation, yourself, and one for the country”, Piggery” like Andrews, this little responsibility for their dogs’ please contact Anna Christie by email: [email protected] to the offensive, such as Judge John pink book is one hell of a read. excrement. One local character

Can Kevin help Sydney’s homeless?

Carissa Simons and parcel of things’. Well, I at St Vincent’s Hospital agrees. don’t buy that. I don’t think Most of the people he treats do ake Hawkes, 31, was once you can fix the whole thing, not have homes to return to. Ja chef. He is now one of but we can do a hang of a lot Les Twentyman, Youth Worker, hundreds of Sydneysiders who better than we’re doing now.” emphasises that not all homeless wait on the public housing No one would argue with that people suffer from mental list for a place to live. sentiment. But considering the health problems or addiction. range of causes, ethnicities and “The ignorance among some Anywhere between 150 and geographical areas linked to sections of the community about 350 people sleep in parks and on the issue of homelessness, can the lives of their fellow Australians streets every night in the inner the problem really be tackled still staggers me. Even after 30 city. In fact welfare and support by the Federal Government years of doing what I do,” he says. agencies, as well as Sydney City on a national scale? Dr Nicholson agrees. Council, agree that the number Social welfare expert Dr “Australians who experience could be much higher than the Tony Nicholson, who runs homelessness don’t aspire to 2001 Census data indicates. Victorian-based welfare service, be part of an under class – Currently, 100,000 Australians the Brotherhood of St Laurence, they aspire to be part of the across the country are classified has been appointed by Mr mainstream Australian society. as homeless, and the number Rudd to tackle the issue. He They have modest aspirations to is growing. As the nation’s will head a steering committee be able to work, to have a decent biggest city, Sydney knows all that will produce a white paper place to live and to have family.” too well how large the problem on homelessness by August. The problem that faces Sydney’s is. In fact, Missionbeat, a non- Dr Nicholson is confident “that homeless is not only the sheer government agency which helps over the next decade we can do magnitude of people who find the chronically homeless, recently better than halving the level of themselves without a home. It is ran out of blankets due to the homelessness in Australia”. the lack of places for them to sudden onset of cooler weather. Priority will be given to the go combined with the lack of One of Prime Minister Kevin 14,000 people who are at the specialised services to address Rudd’s key election promises was acute edge of the homeless the root causes of homelessness. to tackle the growing problem of problem, who are most likely Dr Nicholson believes that an homelessness. “It’s dead wrong suffering multiple physical and integrated system is the best that in a country as wealthy as mental disease. “It’s futile to try way to tackle the problem in ours we have 100,000 people to treat a mental health problem the inner city, and nationwide. who are classified as homeless,” if the patient doesn’t have a Many hope that he is right, said Mr Rudd. “A lot of people decent place to live,” he said. including Mr Hawkes. As he say, ‘Well, you can’t fix it, can’t Dr Alex Wodak, who oversees puts it, “I don’t want to be Sleeping on the street in Sydney Photo: Ali Blogg do anything about it, it’s part a five-day detoxification unit like this any more. No way.” The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 17 Features GetUp – protesting and participating in the 21st century

Dorothy McRae-McMahon the differences in the way people prioritised the issues as well as the walked through the old connections they made between I rooms above a pub in them – like relating environmental Bathurst Street and felt the issues to Indigenous justice or hum of committed activity to education. in the offices of GetUp – the He made the point that very movement for democratic par- few people can afford to fund one ticipation, change and justice. television ad and that lobbyists are usually able to buy their way into As its website indicates: “GetUp situations – none of which is open is led by Executive Director Brett to the average citizen, unless they Solomon, who has been working are able to join together in some on social justice and development way. We reflected that the younger issues for more than ten years. generations are mostly no longer In that time he founded the “joiners” – of political parties or International Youth Parliament formal protest groups which are with Oxfam and worked as organised through meetings. On the the Campaign Coordinator at other hand, becoming part of a Amnesty International Australia. group which operates via the net “It was founded by Jeremy is more part of their culture. Heimans and David Madden, One interesting thing about two young Australian graduates GetUp is that, unlike most of Harvard University’s Kennedy political movements in the past, School of Government who its supporters hold quite a wide John and Florence Photo: Ali Blogg have worked at the intersection range of views on specific issues. of technology, new media and For example, the vast majority were politics in the United States.” very supportive of the apology to They were connected with Aboriginal people, but some were MoveOn.org which was their not. GetUp is not a “fundamentalist” Darlington & Florence! model for GetUp on their return movement of either left or right. to Australia in 2004. They had The fact that people simply “500 houses were knocked down before people realised what was observed the huge marches related choose which particular issue to to Sorry Day and against the war support by adding their vote and/ happening,” says Flo. When residents became aware of what was going in Iraq and decided that a different or contributing money is a great approach to protest and comment asset, as well as a challenge. on – that the University was buying up and taking over – a community by citizens was needed to run Each campaign is an act of faith – meeting was called. “This street was saved,” she says. alongside such efforts. you never know how many people Sam Mclean is now a young will come through with support. staff person for GetUp and As Sam has observed, the key Katherine Keefe st / Ever a Saddler / Needed now a lunch. And it was nearly impossible reflected on his own journey thing here is that email is a very good Butcher, Cake shop, Fish shop, to get a job. After the grocery store with the organisation. When he democratic medium – unlike a ore than 30 years Hairdresser and Hardware [‘Chemist’ they ran on Abercrombie Street, was a University student doing newspaper or TV it’s very easy Mlater, the same street has been added as an afterthought Flo’s husband was a wharfie, a lift International Studies, he decided to ignore or delete, and it’s very, in Darlington maintains its in pen]. attendant, and he spent time in the to do voluntary work with GetUp. very easy to click reply and give mostly residential status, but “Open up the back gate to railyards. Flo was a seamstress in This gradually developed into part- the sender a piece of your mind the rusty, tin-roofed worker’s Station to let the ‘Mob’ through so the city, “a stitch out of place and time and then full-time work for when you are relating on the net. cottage – where Flo raised four local people can walk Lawson St we had to unpick it all,” she says. them as he takes a break from study Can you imagine if it was that easy kids through the conserva- in comfort.” “They raced greyhounds for a and reflects on what he really wants when watching the news or reading tive post-war era, and where This is an historical document. while too,” says John. “You made to do with his life. the paper? When you are inviting the 90 year-old still resides In the white space around these do and everyone helped,” says Flo. Numbers of people do volunteer attention on the net, you have about – now shares the pavement words there are a thousand stories, As tough as it was, Flo says there work for GetUp – often retired 25 characters in the subject line to with a boutique construction but Flo won’t tell us any, only names was harmony – apart from the four people from all sorts of professions get people’s attention! They will fit-out company and a block of other old Darlington residents women beating a cab driver to death and younger people like Sam. not read on unless you grab that of apartments with tasteful who “know more”. The more names with their shoes! The organisation is funded by its first moment by campaigning on wrought iron trimmings. she mentions, the more evident it The 70s saw bars go up and supporters. Last year some 17,000 an issue that really resonates. becomes that Flo’s tight jaw and houses close, a response to the crime Australians donated, giving about It is a demanding and complex And still Flo, our Old Lady of camera shyness is less about the associated with the arrival of smack $50 each on average. Most donors medium through which to work. It is Darlington – a historical body of this police and more about her feelings and other drugs to the area. “We give to specific projects or critical to find a range of activities changed and changing landscape that nothing she could tell us is are one of the only places on the campaigns and so control how their and causes and a low barrier to – says “no pictures”, and “no”, “newsworthy”. The last thing she street that hasn’t been broken into,” donation is spent. It now has 10 participation. Endless invitations to she will not talk to us. wants to become is fodder on the John says. regular staff and its staffing levels sign petitions will not work. In all Just when I’m thinking, mad old pages of the local rag. It was also around this time rose to 20 for the period of the of this there is a blending of the old bird, we’ve made it too late, she But Flo, didn’t you get pinched? that the greening of Darlington recent elections. and new styles of participation and hands me an A4 piece of paper with Fingerprints taken up at the station began; marking a return to the If GetUp can be seen as an an engagement between people who some notes typed under the header, when the SP bookies operating out area’s namesake, The Darlington evolving of concerned citizen have been long-term protestors with ‘Redfern/Chippendale’. They read: of her backyard got done. “The Nursery, planted by botanist William participation in this century, it the new generations. “Famous people / Cardinal Gilroy boys paid the fine,” she says. “I was Shepard, and of which the street may be a response to a number Ultimately, the real work and / Kathy Gorran – Ballerina / George just the front.” She makes it sound names Ivy, Rose, Pine and Myrtle of developments in modern life. impact of GetUp is achieved through Wallace – Tivoli theatre / Phillis like nothing. are a legacy. It is a way in which people can its members, who make the calls, McDonald – Opera / Vaughn Hanley It sounds like it was a very For the working class, green was be informed via the net about all send the emails and supply the – Violin. Plumbers / Crane-Read. different time back then… a colour of luxury. “We used to be sorts of issues and then be offered a financial support. It also still needs “More people here now, less of “We survived,” Flo says. able to see the Central clock tower vehicle for making their responses. the commitment of people who will everything / Transport badly needed, John, her youngest son and now from the backyard,” says John. As Sam pointed out, when GetUp do the hack work – the packing and eg The old 300 Bus / The Picture her carer, translates. There were Of the ‘pocket parks’ that Clover had its recent “Get Togethers” in sorting, so to speak. Show was called the Lawson seven of them in the cottage – Moore is busy opening, Flo says, which people were invited to join (TNT towers) / The hotel was his mum and dad, three siblings “She’s doing all the fancy work, a local group and reflect together If you want to know more about GetUp the Burdichon and later a cousin. While it was a what about the infrastructure?” on what they believed were the much can be found on: “The two Butchers were called tight squeeze, the doors were open With the loss of local amenities, key issues of our day, they were www.getup.org.au/about/faq/#7 “Chenery” and “Elvy” / The wine and the kids spilled out onto the the lack of public transport has not limited by the questions which Or you can email: [email protected] bar/Eatery was normally Tom streets. You left your money out the made it difficult for the elderly to pollsters construct, nor the set or fax Sam Mclean McCotters Office, Panel Beater / front for the milkman, and there live in the area. “The new residents agendas of focus groups. He was GetUp! National Mobiliser Truck bodies. was nothing sinister about a man are all drivers,” Flo says. the GetUp staff person assigned the Fax: (612) 9012 0442 “Newsagent on Cleaveland st standing at your door offering to And just as Flo starts to open task of collating and analysing the If you want to become a volunteer / General store near Edward St / sharpen your scissors and knives. up a little, flashing what could be responses from the Get Together for GetUp, send a short E-Mail “Bakers” shop on Cleaveland St, Wartimes were tough. At work, defined as a glint in the eye, she tells groups and found it a challenging to: [email protected] opposite the Britannia Hotel / Small meat pies were wrapped around us she has to be somewhere at 2.30, and fascinating task. He noted and attach a brief resume. Supermarket on corner, Abercrombie light globes to warm them up for “nowish”. Interview over. 18 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 Features

A FUNDRAISER FOR THE SURRY HILLS NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

on the green

ENTRY BY GOLD COIN DONATION - NO GLASS - NO BYO

Claudia Leigh Photo: Gibson le Chat Journey to the centre of the earth HUGE LINE UP OF LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & DJ’S FROM 10AM • GREAT FOOD • DOG SHOW THE LILYPAD & FRIENDS • DRAMATIC INTENT • LICENSED BAR • AMUSEMENT RIDES Claudia Leigh hindrance than a help? HUNDREDS OF MARKET STALLS • FANTASTIC KIDS’ ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT Or, as I hope, perhaps I can help NEW FEATURES: FASHION SHOWCASE OF EMERGING DESIGNERS • MULTICULTURAL DANCERS or months I have been my Kintore charges with learning to F preparing for an adventure, read and write, with play, activity which, amongst my friends, and responsible trampolining (a local has variously been described favourite). In turn, the Anangu* will as an outback odyssey, desert teach me an understanding of what ENQUIRIES: 02 9310 2888 or www.surryhillsfestival.org.au time, rehab or (my favourite): it is to be Australian and allow a my trip to the moon. view into a part of our country that I have only ever seen through the eyes In April 2008, I and three others of the media. will fly to Alice Springs, travel In preparation, I have read closely 137km along a baking hot tar road, the advice from returned volunteers, turn left and continue a further and from what I can gather, aside 380km on a dirt road. Then 9km from being prepared with a large before my destination make one last stick to defend myself from the camp turn and keep driving through the dogs, all I can do is approach Kintore dust, through the red, red desert, with an open, tolerant, inquisitive, passing camels – until we arrive in and most importantly, respectful Kintore, NT. mind. It may also help to have a Located 30km from the West healthy appreciation for tinned fruit, Australian border and home to camels (the edible variety) and the the Pintubi people, Kintore is one colour red. of the most remote Indigenous So, in just a few days time, with communities in Australia. A place, my eyes wide open, I will step off the in my mind as a Sydneysider, as far edge of comfort into a place under away as outer space. a canopy of wild stars, drowned in We will spend ten weeks living Technicolour dust. With no need for in the community, helping out at a passport, I anticipate experiencing the school and recreation centre. a truly foreign culture. Providing distractions in the form of Stay tuned to hear how this city activities such as swimming, sports, dweller copes with camp dogs (big art and discos. stick), mamu** (yet to discover) and I will be working as a community life in a part of our country, where volunteer, on behalf of the non- I feel humbly privileged to spend government, non-profit Youth some time. Challenge Australia. Since becoming a “challenger” I have struggled with the notion of * Anangu is the Pintubi-Luritja word the city-centric, urban-dwelling, for people. Pintubi-Luritja is the native, white Australian volunteer in the and most commonly used language middle of the desert! Having never in Kintore. Northcott meets Shakespeare set foot in the outback, having ** Mamu means monsters, which grown up with no real education of evidently pop up a lot and affect Rehearsals are underway at Northcott Estate for a Shakespearean our Indigenous cultures other than many things. a Grade 3 understanding of cave For more information on Youth production to be staged soon at the Belvoir St Theatre. Details next month. painting, rainbow serpents and the Challenge Australia please see Dreamtime, won’t I be more of a www.youthchallenge.org,au The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 19 Community Notices & Advertising

the coloured The Bourbaki Ensemble presents The Great Romantics digger project Music for Strings Honouring, recognizing and respecting Sunday April 20, 2.30pm Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander St Stephen’s Church Servicemen and Servicewomen 189 Church St, Newtown

2008 Redfern Anzac Day March & Service Featuring music of Tchaikovsky, Koehne, Finzi, Tavener and Warlock Friday April 25 Soloist: Valda Wilson, soprano singing Australian Assemble at the Block, Redfern composer Graeme Koehne’s 1pm for 1.15pm march off settings of three poems by Byron 1.45pm service at St Saviour’s Church, Redfern. Service finish 3.45pm Tickets: $20/$15

Service followed by afternoon tea in the St Saviour’s Church Hall food distribution network Transport available for those unable home delivery of low-cost fresh fruit & vegetables to march but wanting to travel with Partner with the SSH and the marchers The Food Distribution Network is a not-for-profit organisation 22,000 readers who are: that delivers boxes of fresh and inexpensive fruit and vegies to - savvy on a diverse range of issues Contact older people, people with disabilities, people living with HIV/AIDS - passionate about the area in which they live Ray Minniecon (media, march, service): and carers who live in the City of Sydney and need assistance - looking to support community businesses living independently at home. For $9 you can have a box of 0417 929 701 and people 6-8kg of fruit and/or vegies delivered to your door each week or Harry Allie (general inquiries): [email protected] fortnight. Please call 9699 1614 or e-mail [email protected] 02 8255 7614 for more information. These services are funded by the Home and Community Care programme and the AIDS Trust of Australia. Tanya Plibersek MP Uniting Churches Buddhist New Year FEDERAL MEMBER FOR SYDNEY Lunch – Free! The 4th Anniversary Thingyan Festival I am your Federal Labour Member of Parliament for Sydney, All welcome Waterloo Neighbourhood Centre which includes Alexandria, Beaconsfield, Chippendale, Shop 5/95 Wellington St Waterloo Darlington, Erskineville, Newtown, Redfern, Surry Hills, Tuesday April 15, 4-6pm Contact Mabel Chang: 9319 7786 Waterloo and Zetland. Please contact my office for South Sydney Uniting Church assistance with any Federal government matters – such as 56a Raglan St Waterloo Centrelink, immigration and medicare. I can also provide a Worship (Eucharist) 10am Sunday Bible Study/Discussion 7pm 10/4, 8/5 Pepsee voice for your community organisation and make Rev Andrew Collis 8399 3410 CUT & COLOUR SALON representations to Government. Welcoming people of all ages, cultural backgrounds, sexual Style cuts for a great price for everybody preferences. Peace with justice, Please don’t hesitate to contact my office: tel: 02 9357 6366 fax: 02 9357 6466 integrity of creation. 276 ABERCROMBIE ST DARLINGTON 422 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010 Office Hours: 9am -12:30pm & 1:30-5pm weekdays Tongan Uniting Church 9310 4927 (South Sydney) Worship 1pm Sunday Mid-week service Friday 7-8pm Clover Moore MP Ps Sione Hau 0431 144 247 BABANA Newtown Mission Aboriginal Men’s Group State Member for Sydney 280 King St Newtown New members welcome! Worship 9.30am & 6pm Sunday BABANA was formed by local Aboriginal men I represent the residents of the Sydney electorate in the NSW Parliament which covers Surry Hills,Centennial Park, Rev Ps Doug Clements 9519 9000 in early 2006 to provide Aboriginal men with Chippendale, Ultimo, Pyrmont, Miller’s Point, The Rocks/Dawes Point, The CBD, East Sydney, Darlinghurst, opportunities to network, discuss issues Woolloomooloo, Kings Cross, Potts Point, Elizabeth Bay, Rushcutters Bay, Paddington, small parts of Woollahra and Paddington Uniting Church affecting local men, meet other Aboriginal Edgecliffe west of Ocean Street and a small part of Kensington bounded by Anzac Parade and Abbotford Street. Oxford St Paddington men’s groups and do projects which benefit Worship 10am & 7.30pm Sunday the Redfern-Waterloo community. I work with my constituents to make government and bureaucracies accountable, empower the community, Church Office 9331 2646 Please phone Mark Spinks if you would ensure social justice for individuals, and protect the urban and natural environments. like to volunteer with us. Wayside Chapel Contact my office to talk about your ideas or concerns or if you need help with NSW Government matters. 29 Hughes St Potts Point Community members are helping to develop a Babana website: www.treocom. Tel , drop in to 58 Oxford Street, Paddington, fax 9331 6963, or email Worship 10am, 9360 3053 [email protected] net/babana Bible Study 5pm Sunday Ps Graham Long 9358 6996 Contact: Mark Spinks Subscribe to my free weekly Clover’s eNews, an email bulletin to inform the community about important issues, events and campaigns. Check my website for more information: 9243 3546 www.clovermoore.com 20 The South Sydney Herald – April 2008 Sport Souths fans hope for better games to come

Emily Pollard climbing to 20 points, a good effort, yet not good enough to beat the A highly anticipated start to Roosters who scored 34 points the football season saw long-time in total. rivals the Rabbitohs and the Not all decisions met with the Roosters clash to kick off Round approval of fans, many yelling One of the NRL competition. insults at the referee (Tony Archer) and newcomer to the Roosters Within the first 20 minutes Willie Mason, yet all in all a great crowd favourite Craig Wing had and suspenseful start to the year, been helped from the field with with hope for better games to come a dislocated shoulder, leaving the for the mighty Rabbitohs. Rabbitohs fans in despair. [Round Two saw the Rabbitohs An intense second half started defeated by the Bulldogs 25-12 at and the Rabbitohs fought back ANZ Stadium.] Anarchists play

The Old Rovers Photo: Supplied by the rules

norrie mAy-welby They had to move recently from Old Rovers set new records at Masters an anarchist warehouse that closed Those keen on mental in Camperdown, and last met Perry Johnstone SSJRLFC district. award – “The Phillip Tackleberry gymnastics may be interested in at “the Nunnery” in Newtown, The team finished with three wins award” – voted on by the players Chess Club. Once a month there but from this month (April) will The hair is a little thinner, the from its five games with a healthy and the coaching staff, was won has been a friendly gathering of be meeting at the Clare Hotel on waist line a touch thicker and the for and against tally of 145 for emphatically by Phil Riley who scored inner-city nerds, geeks and gimps Broadway, Thursday April 3, from pace somewhat slower, but that and only 36 against; both are new an incredible 10 first-place votes (apparently the derisive term 7pm to midnight. A gold coin didn’t stop the Alexandria Rovers masters records for points scored amongst the squad, which summed for “people who like thinking” donation is welcomed, and bringing over 35 team from making its debut and conceded. up the impact he provided throughout changes every generation), your own chess set is encouraged! in the official ARL Masters Rugby The team played against Jamberoo, the games. socialising over this sport of the Standards of playing vary, and League Tournament held over four Hibiscus Coast (NZ), Blacktown This was a great warm-up for the mind. everyone is welcome, and even if days on the Gold Coast in March. Workers, North Queensland and the Sydney Masters tournament which you get matched with one of the Gold Coast. starts on Saturday 29 with the Rovers Many of the players are from uber-geeks, you’ll either have the As the first team from the South The team was officially dubbed taking on the Merryland Rams at networks of non-capitalist or opportunity to learn (painfully) Sydney district to ever play in “The Entertainers” by fellow teams as Merryland Oval. anti-capitalist activities, and this from a master, or experience the this prestigious tournament the the football at times was breath-taking. has been a valuable opportunity thrill of a lucky win if they’ve had pressure was on from the start to The game against Blacktown and the For more information about the for people who may have only a beer too many! not only represent our club, but to Gold Coast saw us score a staggering Alexandria Rovers and the masters seen each at social justice represent the whole district as the 15 tries and only one against. team, log onto the club’s official demonstrations to meet in a Further queries may be directed to pioneers of masters football from the The prestigious players’ player website: www.alexandriarovers.com.au more congenial setting. [email protected]

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