Saturday night Cross road closure Newtown Markets granted reprieve BY Tom Neale by the Liquor Accord and the alcohol industry.” by James Beech The City of Council will trial a partial closure Ms Doutney said there were other ways to reduce People power and a raft of public safety, of Bayswater Rd in Kings Cross and is considering a violence and anti-social behaviour in Kings Cross. amenity and access measures gave similar initiative in Darlinghurst Rd following other “A cap should be put on the number of venues.” Newtown Community Markets a last minute initiatives to crack down on violent incidents. Clover Moore Independent Team Councillor Jenny reprieve by Marrickville Council last week. At a Council meeting on Monday night, the City Green said the current situation in Kings Cross should But concerns remains rogue traders decided to close Bayswater Rd to vehicles for a trial not go on. are exploiting its reputation and halving period of three Saturday nights, with the exception of “The current situation in Kings Cross every weekend legitimate stallholders’ income, which taxis, public transport, emergency services and local is untenable with thousands of people, many of whom support critical social welfare programmes residents. The three Saturdays are yet to be determined are intoxicated roaming the streets, coming into contact run by Newtown Neighbourhood Centre. and need the sign-off of the State Government’s Roads with each other and traffic, often resulting in violence,” An amended development application and Maritime Services (RMS). she said. by the centre seeking to formalise their Supporters of Newtown Community Markets A period of trial closures for Darlinghurst Rd remains “There are a number of positives regarding the arrangement with Council answered the on the table but has not yet been approved. proposed road closures ... police will be able to better competition, safety, amenity and access was the only Councillor who voted in Greens Councillor Irene Doutney said she had serious manage crowds and a significant reduction in the huge concerns of Council’s development opposition of the Council approval for the concerns that the trials would not achieve their aim. volumes of ‘look at me’ hoon traffic.” committee. continuation of Newtown Markets. But Helen Crossing, who was the 2011 Convenor “The stated aim is to ease congestion and avoid The revamped application was raised at “The shopkeepers in the small suburbs of the Potts Point Residents Association, said that the jostling, which can often lead to antisocial behaviour the first Council meeting chaired by incoming don’t need someone to come only one day impacts of the potential road closures had not been and violence,” she said. “I fear it could just become an Marrickville Mayor Jo Haylen last Tuesday. a week, pay very cheap rents and try to get disccussed with residents. attractor to more people in an area that is already at Ms Haylen focused on the fact that the business out of them,’’ he said. “There was no consultation,” she said. “Given the visitor capacity. community markets represent what people Staff at the Newtown Neighbourhood extent of the impact of road closures, the whole area “I am also concerned about the costs to the ratepayers love about Newtown. Centre are “thrilled” the future of the centre needed to have been notified and input sought.” to implement [an] experiment which should be financed ‘’It’s a little bit alternative and different and run markets is secured by Council approval Councillor Angela Vithoulkas they really like the vibrancy of activating that and thanks to community support, operations agreed that there should be further public space,” she said. manager Barbara Keen said. consultation with residents and Conditions accepted by almost all Ms Keen said the markets help fund said “more detail” on the trials was councillors include parameters placed the more than 30-year-old, not-for-profit needed, in terms of times, dates and on where stalls can set up. Pedestrian incorporated association’s outreach efforts costings. thoroughfare of 1.5 metres for safety and for disadvantaged or marginalised people. A spokesperson for the City access of four metres for emergency “Now we have somewhere between 20 said the trial closures proposal was vehicles were designated. to 30 stalls and we’re hopeful to grow to influenced by successful violence Council assets, such as gardens and as many stalls as we’re able to have on prevention initiatives overseas. seating, and access to shops are not to be the square site, but it’s always going to be “International evidence suggests impeded. The market remains limited to one small,” she said. dealing with congestion in public day per week and the duration is restricted to However, fee-dodging unregistered, spaces is essential for addressing 10am to 4pm each Saturday, with extended unregulated and uninsured traders who safety at night, especially in areas trading during summer months. set up in the Martin Luther King memorial where alcohol is a major factor, such The arrangement will be reviewed after site remain unwelcome competition for as Kings Cross,” the spokesperson the standard two years, the Mayor said. the centre’s law-biding community spirited said. Councillor Morris Hanna, an Independent, Saturday stallholders. View of Kings Cross from William Street With Peter Hackney Fire risk for Redfern residents BY Adam Hunt again need more of us, not less.” if there is less than a minimum safe crew of three Published weekly and freely available Sydney-wide. State Government budget cuts have forced A City of Sydney spokesperson explained fire fighters, with the remaining squad sent to Copies are also distributed to serviced apartments, hotels, the closure of Redfern Fire Station 37 times in that Council carries out inspections of other fire stations in Sydney. convenience stores and newsagents throughout the city. less than a year amid concerns over a lack of fire commercial buildings only in response to “By closing Redfern Fire Station the Distribution enquiries call 9212 5677. Published by safety equipment in high-rise public housing. FRNSW and complaints from residents. government is risking the lives of the the Alternative Media Group of Australia. While every effort A number of public housing establishments “Council conducts fire safety inspections community,” said Mr Casey. is made to ensure accuracy of content, City Hub takes no in Redfern are missing fire extinguishers, have of commercial and residential buildings in “Station closures mean that fire trucks and responsibility for inadvertent errors or omissions. broken fire exit lights and lack fire evacuation response to complaints from residents or reports crews from surrounding areas take longer to get procedures. to an incident. ABN 48 135 222 169 received from FRNSW,” said a City of Sydney One building in Morehead St contains fire spokesperson. “We are aware of one situation where there Group Publisher: Lawrence Gibbons cupboards on numerous levels that lack fire Budget cuts have led to the practice of was a kitchen fire a few metres from Redfern Group Manager: Chris Peken extinguishers, despite signs on the doors stating temporarily taking fire stations offline (TOLing) Fire Station on September 22. A resident ran Group Editor: Marcus Braid a fire hose and extinguisher are inside. due to sickness or absence. Stations are TOLed down to Redfern Fire Station but the station was City Hub Editor: Adam Hunt City of Sydney Councillor Irene Doutney, TOLed that day – people had to wait for fire Editors: Peter Hackney and Michael Koziol a public housing tenant, warned that elderly crews from Alexandria to respond.” Contributors: Gavin Gatenby, Triana O’Keefe, Paul people needed fire extinguishers when tackling One practice that occurs with TOLing is Gregoire, Virat Nehru, Tom Neale and James Beech small fires and called for evacuation maps to be labelled ‘Stand By’, where a fully manned fire dam Hunt Arts Editor: Leigh Livingstone installed. A station is closed and moved to cover another Live Music Editor: Chelsea Deeley “For a lot of elderly people a hose is hopeless TOLed fire station. Since November 2012, Photo: Photo: Dining Editor: Jackie McMillan – how are they going to use it, unwind it and Redfern Fire Station was closed 26 times due to Advertising Managers: David Sullivan, Toni Martelli, turn it on? With a fire extinguisher, if you’ve got this practice and only 11 times due to sickness Robert Tuitama and Debra O’Kane a little fire in your kitchen, you can just spray it,” or absence. Design: Joanna Grace she said. Mr Casey said: “The union has been Publisher’s Assistant: Deeksha Chopra “In most of these high-rises there are a very collecting stats of stations performing Stand Bys Distribution Manager: Danish Ali large proportion of seniors – there are so many because even though the station hasn’t been people in these buildings and they’re not easy to officially TOLed, it has the same effect – that Cover: Chris Peken - Prinnie Stevens, Claire Crosby, navigate. There should be an evacuation map is that Redfern residents were without fire Pascel Riley, Stephen Kovacs and Khadija Ali on every floor.” protection for that day or night. Email: [email protected] The O’Farrell Government’s public sector “The union believes that it is better to have Advertising: [email protected] cuts have compelled Fire and Rescue NSW your local crew on hand 24/7 who know the Contact: PO Box 843 Broadway 2007 (FRNSW) to make $64 million worth of savings area intimately than to have another crew from Ph: 9212 5677 Fax: 9212 5633 Web: altmedia.net.au over the next four years. a different area.” This has led to understaffing at FRNSW Fears remain the budget cuts will inevitably If you have a story you’d like to tell us: and is hampering the agency’s ability to ensure lead to tragedy due to longer response times. [email protected] that public housing meets fire safety standards, “Eighty five per cent of the oncosts in fire according to the Secretary of the Fire Brigade fighting is wages – cuts of this magnitude will Employees Union, Jim Casey. mean less fire fighters and that means longer “The FRNSW Fire Safety section is response times,” said Mr Casey. altmediagroup altmediasydney understaffed,” said Mr Casey. “To do an “It is only a question of when, rather than if, adequate job of keeping buildings compliant we A fire cupboard at public housing in Redfern this policy leads to an avoidable tragedy.”

3 Project provides HoPe for pets New CCTV cameras fast-tracked BY Triana O’Keefe in Sydney’s St Peters, Dr Kovac went on to set up the BY Peter Hackney when an incident is occurring, it allows for They may be man’s best friends, but an alarming Southern Cross Compassionate Fund to ensure the The rollout of new CCTV cameras to police intervention. number of them make up an often forgotten part of our financially disadvantaged do not have to bargain over trouble spots within the City of Sydney LGA “When people are aware that they are society: disadvantaged pets. the life of their companion. has been fast-tracked, after a motion by being filmed – when it’s really well advertised Veterinarian Dr Sam Kovac of Southern Cross “Naturally it is heartbreaking when the owner is Liberal Councillor Christine Forster was – I do think people are probably less likely to Veterinary Clinic and Rabbi Mendel Kastel, CEO of unable to afford the medical treatment to save their pet,” approved at Monday night’s Council meeting. misbehave,” she added. Jewish House, collaborated to establish Project HoPe Dr Kovac says. “Not only does the animal suffer but I The motion noted that alcohol-related Ms Scott said CCTV should only be “one (Homeless Pets) in August this year. think it leaves the owners with a sense of letting their pet violence was a complex issue and that part” of the solution. Project HoPe was created to provide care for and down, despite years of a strong bond together.” its mitigation involved various authorities “I think we’re working on lots and lots of vaccinate any animal who may not normally have Project HoPe not only aims to care for those pets including the State Government, strategies around the edges of the problem been able to receive necessary treatment due to the living on the street but also those in public housing. NSW Police, liquor and hotel industry but not addressing the real issue – and that circumstances of their owner. Recently, Dr Kovac treated an animal from a George St, representatives, health authorities and is that Kings Cross is saturated with licensed Dr Kovac states: “Animals don’t discriminate between Redfern public housing tower who presented with renal NGOs. premises,” said Ms Scott. rich and poor, healthy and unhealthy, and these animals failure. Dr Kovac knew that the only way to save the “[But] one area in which the City of Sydney Earlier, Ms Forster’s proposal attracted living rough on the street should have equal rights to dog’s life was to put him on a drip that the owner could does have authority to act is in the installation high-profile support from former Sydney Lord veterinary attention and medical care.” not afford. of CCTV cameras,” said Ms Forster. Mayor Lucy Turnbull AO. After founding the Southern Cross Veterinary Clinic “We were able to pull some money together and the “The City of Sydney’s Open Sydney policy In a joint statement released with Ms dog received the treatment necessary,” he says. “These makes the installation of CCTV cameras in Forster last week, Ms Turnbull said: “The people are used to being sent from pillar to post and problem areas a ‘priority action’ and there’s installation of street safety cameras began often avoid vets as they don’t think they will be helped now a pressing need for the City to make as a very important innovation in the late without adequate funds.” good on this pledge,” she said. 1990s and has always had bipartisan hris Peken Dr Kovac believes in the care of all animals, regardless The motion resolved that the City’s CEO support in Council. The programme now C of their situation or home. “It is one thing to donate have further meetings with the Thomas Kelly needs to expand in response to changing money but it is pretty special to be able to donate my circumstances and new problem areas in the

Photo: Photo: Youth Foundation and report back to Council time and industry experience,” he says. in the first quarter of 2014 on locations, times City.” His future goal for Project HoPe is to raise enough and funding. funds to eventually microchip all the homeless pets in Ten new camera locations – including one Sydney. where Thomas Kelly was attacked on the “If we can tie the animals to my clinic in St Peters and corner of Victoria St and Darlinghurst Rd in establish a doctor to dog link, we can keep an updated Kings Cross – have so far been identified as digital record of each pet,” he says. “If they get lost or options. something happens to the owner we are then able to Labor Councillor Linda Scott agreed with quickly identify the animal.” the moves but asked Ms Forster whether For more information about Project HoPe, to donate CCTV cameras “prevented alcohol-related to the Compassionate Fund, or if you see a companion crimes or merely recorded them”. animal in need of assistance, contact the Clinic at 60 Ms Forster told City Hub: “I don’t claim Princes Highway, St Peters on (02) 9516 0234. that CCTV of itself stops people behaving Donations can also be made by contacting Jewish badly but it does assist police in prosecutions House on (02) 9386 0770. Until January, Dr Sam Kovac and it’s my understanding that the CCTV pledges all consultation fees from his clinic will be cameras are continually monitored – so Wendy with her dog Misty transferred to the fund.

4

Unified charge Sydney libraries get against news in brief free, paperless books City urges government who is the brother of Prime Planning Bill BY Peter Hackney an era of parallel formats”. to cut red tape Minister Tony Abbott, BY Paul Gregoire In a boon for Sydney But the spokesperson said The City of Sydney has revealed her wedding plans Member for Sydney Alex bookworms, e-books have the gradual decrease in the urged members of NSW in this week’s issue of Greenwich has united with the arrived at City of Sydney City’s 400,000-strong hard Parliament to reform New Idea magazine. The Better Planning Network, the Nature Council libraries, with more copy collection would free up outdated electricity couple told the magazine Conservation Council and the than 1,000 titles across a range libraries for other uses. regulations preventing the they planned to have their Environment Defenders Office in of genres now available to loan. “The City already uses its installation of low-carbon wedding at Circular Quay’s opposing the NSW Planning Bill 2013. With no limit on how many libraries for more than just trigeneration electricity Café Sydney, and would plants. At a hearing of the NSW Planning Minister Brad titles can be borrowed, and books, with a regular series have drag queens instead of no reservations required, the of workshops, talks, reading NSW Parliament’s Public bridesmaids. Ms Forster said Hazzard announced changes to the Accounts Committee into bill in September in response to titles are available 24/7 and are events and children’s activities,” she expected her famous Member for Sydney, Alex Greenwich trigeneration, the City of brother to be there, despite community outcry. automatically ‘returned’ when said the spokesperson. Sydney’s Chief Development Mr Greenwich welcomes the to the Director General asking for the borrowing period ends. “The Late Night Library his ongoing opposition to Officer Energy and Climate same-sex marriage. changes but believes that the bill is still rezoning of certain lands. “Because they’re digital, program has also been an Change, Allan Jones, said fundamentally flawed. “The Director General would not e-books don’t take up shelf overwhelming success: more the City’s views were echoed Callan Park sporting The changes to the bill dictate have to consult local community on space, are instantly available than 6,994 people have by major businesses groups grounds open the rezoning or respect local council around the clock, and attended about 115 fun and that want to bring more that code assessable developments The official opening of three opinions.” automatically return when the thought-provoking events since efficient energy systems to – those that by-pass proper council new sporting grounds will be The ‘ecologically sustainable two-week borrowing period it was established in 2011.” Australia. “Trigeneration is assessments – will occur only in held this Saturday, October development’ principle is slated to be is up. Readers can also select To access the free, digital a proven way to produce nominated growth areas. 26 with the Callan Park Family removed from the act and replaced their favourite font size and titles, library members must electricity locally, and not “It remains unclear whether Sports Day celebrating new with ‘sustainable development’. some devices can be read in the install the Blue Fire Reader only slash carbon emissions this includes infill urban activation space for local sporting clubs. Ms Fisher said: “The government application and visit the City’s but reduce energy costs at developments in the inner city,” said dark,” said a City of Sydney Leichhardt Mayor Darcy Byrne wants to remove that principle, which the same time,” Mr Jones Mr Greenwich. “If so, my constituents spokesperson. online library catalogue, which said. The City of Sydney said the new sporting grounds is in our current planning legislation, will find they can’t comment on major “When an e-book’s loan can be found at http://library. spent $8.1 million on at Glover St in Lilyfield will from the planning system. In doing developments in their neighbourhood. period expires after two weeks, cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au. attempting to deliver the provide a welcome addition that it is putting economic growth “My biggest concerns are that the the title disappears from the Popular titles since the trigeneration network before and are desperately needed as the primary driver of all planning bill would remove the fundamental member’s online book shelf – service was launched in August shelving the plan, citing in the Leichhardt LGA. “For decisions. principle of ecological sustainable meaning there’s no chance of include romance novel The regulatory barriers. too long, the critical shortage “The definition of ‘sustainable development.” an overdue charge.” Rosie Project by Graeme Forster reveals same- of playing fields has meant development’ is completely different, The bill will allow the Planning If a member hasn’t finished Simsion, The Abomination sex marriage plans that local children and young Minister and Director-General, Sam much narrower and weaker in the e-book, they can simply by crime writer Jonathon Holt people have been turned away Haddad to retain the discretion to terms of environmental and social re-download the title and it will and the classic Andersen’s City of Sydney Councillor Christine Forster has from taking part in local sport,” supersede planning instruments to protection.” automatically return to the last Fairy Tales by Hans Christian he said. Council has invested approve non-complying developments. A spokesperson for the office of page they were reading. Andersen. revealed that she is engaged to her partner Virginia $1.5 million in building two full Corinne Fisher, Convenor of the Minister Hazzard referred to the The spokesperson said Science fiction novel 2121: A Edwards, and plans to marry sized sports grounds at Glover speech the Minister gave in Parliament Better Planning Network said: “As physical books would not be Tale from the Next Century by her as soon as same-sex St and another playing field soon as the legislation is put through in September announcing the changes disappearing from the City’s Susan Greenfield is the library marriage becomes legal in next to Balmain Rd in Callan parliament, developers would be able and said that they had nothing further nine library branches anytime service’s most downloaded Australia. The Councillor, Park. to bypass local councils and go straight to add at this stage. soon, with “book publishing in book so far.

6

Unrest at White Bay over fumes Bridge Hotel requests lockout review BY Michael Koziol “The Minister has been advised that Sydney Ports, BY Virat Nehru Residents of Balmain are demanding action from in conjunction with the relevant cruise lines, is doing The Bridge Hotel in Rozelle is demanding a the Sydney Ports Authority on what they describe as everything within its power to address the concerns,” the review of the 2am lockout placed on it by the “extreme pollution” emanating from ships at the White spokesperson said. NSW Office of Licensing, Gaming and Racing Bay cruise terminal. Sydney Ports undertakes measures to reduce (OLGR). The Sea Princess, which docked on the recent long noise and air pollution where possible, for example The lockout was imposed after NSW weekend, was the subject of particular grievance, with police force voiced its concerns over serious, gdaypubs.com.au Photo: locals describing toxic fumes and a lingering smell requesting cruise lines to operate on the minimum power requirement of two generators while berthed. inebriated violence that occurred at and detectable for more than a kilometre from the vessel. around the venue. The spokesperson said the testing conducted on “It is simply not acceptable in this day and age that Liberal Councillor John Jobling supports October 7 was only visual, “to ensure that the observable The Bridge Hotel in Rozelle residents of inner Sydney be exposed to such health the move, and said the technique of risks and be expected to live with such dangerous toxic level of emissions were not greater than is generally implementing lockouts or ‘lockdowns’ have a As part of the licensing conditions, the emissions so close to their homes,” wrote Elizabeth observable during the normal course of operations”. precedent in curbing alcohol-related violence. Bridge Hotel must comply with crime scene Horribin in documents seen by City Hub. Actual air quality monitoring will take place under the “I know some of the lockdowns are flowing preservation guidelines, as the police have Ms Horribin, who lives adjacent to the terminal, Air Quality Management Plan, designed in consultation on by the State Government from Newcastle,” reported that failure to preserve the crime described the smell from the Sea Princess as “totally with Leichhardt Council, Sydney Water and the NSW he said. “Newcastle ran this trial about three scene has had a negative impact on their overpowering and sickening”. Environment Protection Agency. to four years ago and it was very effective. investigation. But Sydney Ports said in a response that pollution The plan states that sulphur dioxide emissions must “The establishments can still run a very Failure to comply with a licence condition measured on Monday October 7 was within “the usual average less than 228 micrograms per cubic metre in any successful band arrangement, but certainly can result in a maximum penalty of $11,000 levels associated with general operations at the terminal 24-hour period, and less than 712 micrograms per cubic the concept to control excessive drinking I and/or up to 12 months imprisonment. during cruise ship days”. metre over any 10-minute period. There is no evidence support.” The most important crime scene prevention Fellow Balmain resident Gill Hazel also complained those levels have been exceeded. In recent months, two incidents have guidelines, as stated by the OLGR, include: about “furnace-like blasts of noise” and a “disgusting resulted in injury to a person at the live music immediate contact with the police as soon toxic stench” from sister ship the Dawn Princess. A full environmental audit will be carried out after the first year of operation has elapsed. venue, but were not reported to police and as an incident that leads to a crime scene The presence of the Pacific Jewel last week caused the respective crime scenes had not been occurs, preserving the crime scene from further frustration. Ms Hazel said Sydney Ports’ air preserved. The lockout means no patrons are ignorant tampering, and obtaining and quality tests were “laughable”, and expressed concern allowed to enter the venue after 2am. keeping all the witnesses segregated. about the imminent cruise season. Mr Jobling urged the public to enjoy Police have cited 13 incidents between “This situation is only going intensify over the coming themselves in a responsible manner and August 1, 2010 and November 18, 2012 months as we start to open up houses and move outside endorsed the lockout as necessary. where intoxicated patrons had to be removed with the warmer weather,” she wrote. “I’m afraid measures have to be taken to from the venue. Sydney Ports told residents that industry group protect both the band and the public from A spokesperson for the OLGR confirmed Carnival Australia is responsible for determining which people who are behaving badly,” he said. the lockout decision was placed on hold on ships dock in Sydney Harbour and that “if their choice of “It’s a pity when this happens in the district. October 16, until the Independent Liquor and vessel is causing you concern, it might be best to take it It’s a pity when people go out and misbehave. Gaming Authority determines the merits of the up with them directly”. “It’s just so much easier, so much fun if review demanded by the Bridge Hotel. That is A Sydney Ports spokesperson later confirmed that 27 they went to enjoy the band. I support the likely to occur in December. individual complaints about noise or air emissions had lockdown, I support the basis of making The Bridge Hotel was contacted but been received since the terminal opened in April. Duncan sure that they get it right and this stops declined to comment as the matter is Gay, the Minister for Roads and Ports, has been made happening.” currently under review. aware of the issue. The Sea Princess departs Sydney Harbour

8

Paddling into a Sydney Basin apocalypse By gavIn gatenby one. At least, that was the case in Australia, it the Dutch East Indies in 1937. He then skirted Around 1962, when I was about 14 or 15, my was different in Europe and no doubt in North around the north coast of and, in father brought home a job for me to finish. It was America. September 1939, reached Thursday Island with the bare wooden frame for a two-seater white- We set the frame up on a jig in the garage a Nazi pennant still flying at the prow. He was water of German design. It was about and I applied a skin of very thin marine-grade warmly congratulated on his achievement by five metres long – a project one of the blokes plywood which had to be attached with special the local Australian constabulary and promptly at his work had abandoned. Dad mentioned waterproof glue and hundreds of tiny brass arrested as an enemy alien. It was a lucky break something about a German having paddled one screws. Then there were fiddly fit-out details like because if he’d made it back to Germany he like it all the way to Australia before the Second seats and and fore and aft watertight was the sort of bloke who’d probably have died at Stalingrad. World War, but that seemed preposterous. compartments, not to mention painting and varnishing. Speck wasn’t released until 1945. He spent Half a century ago, if you wanted something I was very proud of the finished job, his long years in internment developing a like a kayak, you usually had to make it yourself. particularly since my military heroes at the time new machine to cut opals. After the war he A bought job would have been prohibitively were a tiny band of Royal Marine commandos became an opal miner at Lightning Ridge and expensive, even if you could have sourced Lying under the trailer we were protected from who launching their from a submarine off later, a successful opal merchant. He settled, the onslaught, but water started coursing down the mouth of the notoriously treacherous Girond eventually, at Kilcare Heights near Gosford, the hill behind us and soon we were lying in Estuary in 1942, paddled a hundred kilometers and was active in the early conservation and several centimetres of freezing slush. upstream and sunk a lot of German shipping movements. He never returned to And then suddenly it was all over. The in the harbour at Bordeaux. Their kayaks were Germany. surrounding cars were badly dinged. A couple about the same size as mine but being canvas- I’ve had lots of wonderful adventures in my of excited horses galloped madly around the sided and flat-bottomed were flimsier and less home-built kayak. One of the strangest was in seaworthy. 1979, when my partner Lee and I launched from paddock and rolled in the hail that lay like snow Decades later, I was to find that the crazy Wisemans Ferry and paddled up Webbs Creek, on the ground. Hailstones had holed the deck story about the German to Australia unknowingly into one of those unexpected of the kayak in a couple of places. The owner was true. In 1932, Oskar Speck, an unemployed apocalyptic summer storms that can lash the of the property opposite, which seemed to be Hamburg electrician, gathered up his collapsible Sydney Basin. It was a stunning day, but when some sort of group holiday establishment, hailed kayak, caught a bus to the Danube and set off we’d got quite a way up, we noticed a biblical us and said we should come over on his hand for , where he’d heard there was work in front barrelling in from the south-west like a punt, dry ourselves and have a hot drink. the copper mines. purple-black wall. We enthusiastically accepted his kind offer, When he arrived – via Austria, Hungary, Looking for somewhere to shelter we saw a only to land – to my horror, being a good Yugoslavia, Macedonia, Greece and Turkey hand punt and a few cars parked in the bush lefty – in the middle of a Zionist youth camp. – there was no work, so Speck, obtaining beside the creek. The roar of the oncoming There were a lot of teenage kids, a clutch of a sponsorship from the Pionier Faltboot storm was tremendous and a dense curtain young Eastern Suburbs Jewish social workers, (‘collapsible boat’) company, set off for Australia of hail advanced across the paddock on the and a guy swaggering around in an Israeli (the company replaced his kayak four times). He opposite bank. We hauled the kayak out of paratroop uniform. The social workers were paddled to what’s now Lebanon, went overland the creek and crawled under a car trailer. The hilariously telling each other Jewish mother to Syria, and paddled down the Euphrates to the paddock disappeared from view and hail stones stories. Apparently the passage of the storm . Hugging the coasts of Pakistan, the size of ping pong balls lashed the creek like had already made the news and there had been It was a stunning Sydney day on Webbs Creek India, Burma, Thailand and Malaya he arrived in machine gun bullets. frantic phone calls from concerned parents.

10

City lends hand to bushfire victims by Peter Hackney the destruction caused by the NSW bushfires,” when she linked the bushfires to climate The City of Sydney Council resolved on said the Lord Mayor. change and said she would write to Monday to extend financial and moral support “I would like to extend my deepest Prime Minister Tony Abbott, asking the to communities affected by fires, as the NSW sympathy to the family of Walter Linder Commonwealth Government to implement bushfire crisis continued. from Lake Munmorah on the Central Coast recommendations from a recent Senate inquiry At a full meeting of Council, Sydney Lord into extreme weather. A heated exchange who lost his life last week, as well as to all the Berner Peter artoon: Mayor Clover Moore put forward a motion communities who have lost their homes and ensued between Mr Mandla and Clover C calling on the City to donate $100,000 to the livelihoods as a result of the recent fires. Moore Independent Team councillors. Australian Red Cross NSW Disaster Relief “I would also like to extend my appreciation The developments come as authorities issue and Recovery Appeal. An amendment by to the firefighters, volunteers and emergency warnings to residents of Sydney itself, advising Liberal Councillor Edward Mandla saw the services officers who are working around the children, older adults and people with heart amount doubled to $200,000. clock to contain the situation.” and lung conditions to stay indoors, with the “We’ve all been shocked and distressed by However, Ms Moore aroused controversy city continuing to experience the effects of bushfire smoke. Professor Wayne Smith, Director of Environmental Health, NSW Health, said: “The best way to avoid breathing in the smoke is to remain inside with the windows and doors closed, preferably in an air- conditioned building.” Prof Smith said asthma sufferers should be Photo: New Scientist/Twitter New Photo: especially mindful, adding: “Fine particles can also irritate the lungs of healthy adults, so it is best to avoid any prolonged outdoor exercise.” Meanwhile, the Red Cross called on members of the general public to make monetary donations to support people affected by the bushfires. Secure online donations can be made at www.redcross.org.au or by phoning 1800 811 700. Donations can also be made at all Coles and BI-LO supermarkets in NSW and the ACT. At press time, fires continued to burn in the Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Central Coast, Southern Highlands and Hunter Valley areas. The fires, which began in earnest last Thursday, have so far killed one person, burnt out more than 86,000 hectares, and destroyed Smoke from Blue Mountains fires blanket Sydney over 200 homes.

12

hris Peken

MMAD for a Big Day In C By ANDREW HODGSON lives through music,” says Brook. not a quick fix,” Stevens says.

As the weather heats up, Christmas As a charity MMAD’s goal is not Stevens herself is no stranger to Photo: and New Year celebrations draw near and only to break negative cycles, but also mentoring and is very quick to point out the thought of having a few mates round to empower young people to go on and the powerful tool that is music when it for a party is music to the ears - it seems make their own difference within the comes to turning one’s life around. the right time to talk festivals. community. “For me what I’ve found is that music Though, not the kind you pay “MMAD is quite a powerful charity, got me out and helped me express myself, astronomical amounts to attend, quite the we’re seeing kids that are branded as because I didn’t know how to do it in life opposite, one you can put on from the criminals come out of the jail system and but I knew how to do it through music. comfort of your own home at very little actually turn around and start making I’ve really shared my love for music and cost. their own difference in the world through how that helped me. I encourage these This November Musicians Making the pain that they’ve been through,” kids to use music to do the same,” she A Difference (MMAD) asks budding Brook explains. explains. bedroom musicians to host their very “In terms of the Big Day In, it [the For Stevens the positive circle that own Big Day In, to win a coveted prize support] means a lot because a lot of MMAD creates is the most important and and support charity in the process. The people do call us and say ‘how do we get remarkable thing about the charity. winner gets the chance to join MMAD involved?’ or ‘how can we help?’ and this “There is a lot of young kids that have artists on stage at the Big Day Out, is a great way that we’ve kind of invented been helped by the program who now Outback Tour and Macksville Festival to the ability for people wherever they are have become mentors themselves. These name just a few. to do something at home to help,” says are kids that have walked in their shoes “We’re trying to get everyone we can Brook. and can actually relate to them on the to run a little one at their house. It’s “Actually make a difference in their same level,” adds Stevens. quite simple, it’s a lot of fun just doing a own lounge room by performing a few little concert at home with friends, or a songs, poetry or dance. This really helps Brooks believes that bad experiences barbecue, or whatever creative idea you us raise awareness about the charity and can be put into music to give a therapeutic have,” explains MMAD CEO Dominic helps us raise some funds to continue the and poetic response to such hardship. Brook. programs,” he adds. “We have young people come through Entering its second year, Big Day In MMAD has many fans for the good our program that are called worthless or is certainly gaining momentum in its work they do in the community, none criminals or whatever and we give them support for disadvantaged children. more so than singer/dancer/actress and a voice to say ‘Hey this is what I went “Big Day In was a cool idea the board MMAD ambassador Prinnie Stevens. through; this is what I am, who I am’ came up with, last year we kind of “I’ve just seen the wonderful work that and actually put that to music. It’s quite kicked it off without any media releases it does for these kids and the amazing healing and it gives them a voice,” he or anything, we just trialled it and some environment that MMAD provides, it adds. of the board, and some of our fans and doesn’t just last for a week or three days, It’s just the beginning for Big Day In members ran it. This year we’re trying they really mentor them through their and the only way is up from here. If the to empower more people to run a little life every day and they’re really there for good work continues and the masses take poetry night or dance night or music night those kids for the long haul. That’s what I to it as they have, Stevens is right when at their house and raise money to change love about MMAD and what they do; it’s she says, “I know it can be huge.” Prinnie Stevens

14

EAT & DRINK By Jackie McMillan

is nothing to be shrugged at. And, with NV Laurent- deal (that means no coriander). Argentinean-born Perrier Brut ($20/glass) in your hand, everything Oscar explains: “My first empanada, I did it when I looks better! A brave couple even snaffle a table on was three years old; my first BBQ when I was nine.” the top deck; their golden flutes and vividly Orange You’ll find both on his menu, which also favours the Juice ($4.50) brighten up the backdrop of steel American diner-style cuisine he yearned for as a kid. arches and dark grey skies. For those who avoid His Empanadas ($14) are encased in delightfully short booze until the sun passes the yardarm, Di Gabriel pastry, and serve as vehicles for delivering more of Vivace Coffee scrubs up well in a Latte ($4.50). My that excellent chimichurri. They’re good drinking pick of the compact breakfast menu, Chorizo, Egg food against a cocktail list that shows innovation and Manchego Quesadilla ($16), are tasty and saved and imagination. The MOA Black Russian ($16) is from being too dry by the accompanying heirloom one smartly updated classic, replacing Kahlua with tomato salad. If you’re hungry, an individual skillet Illyquore and MOA Noir, then balancing it with of Baked Eggs, Tomato, Spinach and Sourdough shaved Milky Bar ‘snow’. There are also burgers - both ($18) affords plenty of opportunity to dip, scoop the regular sort and Mini Burger Sliders ($23/4), New and scrape up runny eggs and tomato-based baked Bridge St. Garage York Steak ($40) and even a new take on melted beans; however, a little chorizo in this dish wouldn’t cheese: Provoleta ($14); all accessible enough to Opera Bar go astray. Remember: this ain’t an all-day affair; if you Suits cut loose! The staff are dressed as mechanics, appeal to your finance department, especially if you As luck would have it, I chose to try the Opera want to eat eggs at the Opera House, you’ll need to so take off your tie, roll up your sleeves and enjoy bring ‘em in via the Bridge Lane hand-cranked garage Bar’s new weekend breakfast menu on one of the order at the bar between 9am and 11.30am. pop culture and a plate of beef ribs – Asado De door! only rainy days we’ve had this season. Though even Lower Concourse Level, Sydney Opera House, Tira ($40) - without the hidden anxiety. This joint 17-19 Bridge Street, Sydney (02) 9251 9392 in the rain, the panoramic view stretching from the Sydney (02) 9247 1666 operabar.com.au looks hipster, but no beards or tattoos are required; bridgestgarage.com.au Sydney Opera House to the Sydney Harbour Bridge Breakfast $-$$ and Chef Oscar Gorosito’s chimichurri is the real South American, American, Cocktails $$$-$$$$

$ - mains less than $15 $$ - mains between $15-$22 $$$ - mains between $22-$30 $$$$ - mains over $30 whisky and beer – they’ve got it all. to stay! The namesake sangers - about his namesake Margarita I explore Japanese beers with Tako Reuben ($16) and Rachel ($16) - are ($12). The balls in question contain DARLO, KINGS X gnocchi presented as a spring garden joyously simple Bucatini Cacio E ($20), plump tentacles of sustainable made respectively, on house-smoked tequila, sugar syrup, and Cointreau, & SURRY HILLS with pumpkin puree, zucchini, yellow Pepe ($20) against easy-drinking Fremantle ‘giant’ octopus; the mellow and pickled corned wagyu and and are balanced upon a lime with squash and peas. Even the muffins 2010 Antica Enotria Falanghina ($48/ and slightly sweet Echigo Koshihikari pastrami. There’s also a lick of salt. Consuming it is sexy; thin layers of pickled Tongue ($12) Devon Café are amazing… bottle) from the regionally arranged ($17/500ml) rice beer proves my ditto is watching him use more piled upon lightly toasted rye Continuing the exodus from fine 76 Devonshire Street, Surry Hills Italian list. Ricotta Polpette ($8/4 favourite. Yebisu and Kirin take spherification to form the “olive” in (02) 9211 8777 devoncafe.com.au pieces) prove a perfect start to my with peas pudding and piccalilli. dining to approachable eateries, me through gently updated Nasu your (well-balanced) Martini Magic Café $$ Italian family-style feast! Half’n’Half ($11) gives your choice two of Guillaume Brahimi’s chefs Dengaku ($18) and soy-braised pork ($21). Offerings from Chef Tomoyuki have landed in this little café on Franco Franco 628 Crown Street, Surry Hills of sanger with a cure-all bowl of belly, Butaniku no Kahuni ($22)… Usui’s kitchen take a Ferran-Adria- Devonshire Street. While there are Get stuck into a chewy Neapolitan 9318 0500 francofranco.com.au Jewish Penicillin ($9) a.k.a. chicken wow! for-beginners track; modernising the usual hipster affectations - a style pizza from the dome shaped Italian, Pizza $$ soup. Round it out with shared 478 Bourke Street, Surry Hills (02) Poutine ($12) (the Canuck’s fancier familiar dishes like roast chicken hanging herb garden, and everything oven, while watching the pizzaiolo Ume 9380 7333 umerestaurant.com.au version of chips and gravy) and a work. Con Patate ($21) bearing Two bites into the delicately seared and potato into Sous Vide Chicken from Refresher Juice ($7) to Iced Modern Japanese $$$$ Mountain Goat Steam Ale ($5.90/ Coffee ($6.50) served in jam jars perfectly cooked potato, red onion signature Scallop Carpaccio ($21) Breast, Roast Thigh, Potato Puree, schooner). Crisp Potato Cubes, Potato Film and – the coffee’s great and the food’s and Italian sausage, won me. Speaking with soy brown butter, finger lime, ROCKS & CBD Strattons Hotel, 249 Castlereagh Passion Fruit ($32), and brulee-style even better! The confidently short of Italian meat, the shiny red Berkel young sorrel and dulse, and I’m Street, Sydney (02) 9264 5636 Strawberry Mousse ($19) (think: seasonal menu offers up beautifully meat slicer (and the lad operating kicking myself for not heading Ruby & Rach at Strattons Hotel strattonshotel.com.au presented breakfasts like Citrus it) provide much to salivate over to Ume sooner. The understated Chef Tony Gibson has moved his Pub Bistro $ strawberry shortcake)! Cured Salmon ($18.50) with apple, too, like boards bearing Prosciutto white-tiled room quietly oozes New York style delicatessen Ruby Rabbit Hole Bar & Dining Basement Level, 82 Elizabeth celery, fennel and split dill cream; San Daniele ($16/50g). He’s also a confidence. Sipping Dassai 50 Junmai & Rach into temporary gigs at “Pick it up, flip it over, try to catch Street, Sydney (02) 8084 2505 and creative lunches like Green dab hand at pasta making, so order Daiginjo Sake ($39/180ml) I peruse Strattons Hotel, but I suspect in the balls in your mouth,” says rabbitholebar.com.au With Envy ($23) - nettle semolina a gleaming copper Scanpan bearing the beverage list – wine, Japanese three months we’ll be begging him handsome, tattooed Doug Laming Bar, Modern Australian, Cocktails $$$$ EAT & DRINK By Jackie McMillan

first! I was sorely tempted; but couldn’t pass up the men’s boozer and gambling den, to somewhere you opportunity to eat the Coat of Arms ($19.90/$25.90) can get a decent cocktail, craft beer and something - a plump pizza bearing both emu and kangaroo, which culinarily more exciting than a ‘schnitty’ or ‘parmi’. leans more toward gourmet than Italian. In the drinks, While these items remain on the menu, you’ll you’ll find an all-Australian selection of wine and beer; also find American comfort food, from Hot Wings and with craft brew fever gripping this city, that’s a ($17.50) to that clever Grilled Watermelon Salad wide selection indeed! You’d be best to explore them ($15.90) I fell in love with at the Keystone Group in the Aussie Beer Experience ($14), a bearing pubs. These days, The Royal’s upper level is known as five unique brews. My favourites were the Feral Hop Botanical. It’s full of the usual clichés: exposed hipster Hog; Murray’s Angry Man Pale; and Byron Bay Pale light bulbs, wooden taxidermy replicas (that’s fake Lager, which may become my light summer quaffing deer heads to you and I), and a living garden wall The Australian beer. To make selecting easier, every menu item – from that makes their ‘outdoor’ smoking space so cool, the popular Roast Pork Belly Pizza ($17.90/$23.90) The Royal even I wanted to dine in it. Throw in district views, Heritage Hotel with crackling, to the hearty Beef and Bock Pot and a well-priced cocktail list that doesn’t ignore Pie ($18.90) with chips and salad – is matched to a Leichhardt the area’s Italianate influence (the Ginger Cat ($14) With an illustrated menu depicting every tourist’s beer. Actually, bugger leaving it to the tourists: this boasting Aperol and Appleton Rum, and the Garden fantasy of Sydney – the golden sands of Bondi Beach egalitarian, hundred-year-old hotel offers up something Why drive to Surry Hills when you can now have Party ($13) combining Tanqueray Gin, Vermouth parked right under the Sydney Harbour Bridge – this we’d all enjoy! hipster pub pastiche right here in Leichhardt? The W. and Campari were my favourites), and you have one historic hotel is obviously keen to woo international 100 Cumberland Street, The Rocks (02) 9247 2229 Short Hotel Group (responsible for The Australian standout next-generation hotel! visitors. They offer up the chance to eat Saltwater australianheritagehotel.com and The Glenmore in The Rocks) have made 156 Norton Street, Leichhardt (02) 9569 2638 Crocodile Pizza ($19.50/$25.90) in an Australian Pub Bistro, Pizza $$ Leichhardt the latest recipient for one of those pub theroyalleichhardt.com.au locale where it’s unlikely to be trying to eat you Cocktails, Bar $-$$ transformations that takes your local from an old Bar Food, Cocktails, Pub Bistro $$

INNER WEST with rhubarb compote, mascarpone white sauce; to Crab Cakes ($16) with Pork and Fennel Ragu ($24). Classier surrounds have seen a Throw in local booze – 2010 and crunchy pistachio praline; plus a with aioli – it’s the kind of stuff my Nick Davies’ craft beer list is also natural attrition toward folk more Cuttaway Hill Estate Chardonnay The Counter counter of interesting baked goods. Mum used to cook for tea. exciting – offering bottled beers, interested in sipping Lychee Ginger ($40) grown less than 100km What’s this - “tables” constructed 96 Audley Street, Petersham 1 Norton Street, Leichhardt like the pretty To Øl Eurodancer and Elderflower Slings ($16) over away and Pigs Fly Apple and Pear Spanish Paella ($26.50) in one of the from repurposed materials; (02) 9569 2949 9560 3322 pjsleichhardt.com.au ($12/330ml) plus 20 on-tap options. Cider ($8.50) from Bowral (75km Café $ Irish, Pub Bistro $$-$$$ 91 Evans Street, Rozelle venue’s open-air courtyards. There’s potted succulents; drop-shadowed away) – and you have a South Coast retro font work; a blackboard PJ Gallaghers Leichhardt The Welcome Hotel (02) 9810 1323 also pizza, like the quirky Hot, adventure that’s well worth the trip. promising cold-drip coffee; and “You build an Irish bar, and they Ricotta Fritters ($14.50) dotted thewelcomehotel.com Sweet and Savoury ($12/$18/$23) with leg ham, crème fraîche, corn, sensible aprons? Yes, a small piece come,” laughs Pub Manager Natasha with chocolate chips and drizzled Modern Australian, Seafood, Pub Bistro Design your own-shared meal from mint, provolone and jalapenos - Coster. The bar is jumping and at with warm apple blossom honey, $$$$ a short list that includes Clyde River of hipster Surry Hills has sprung made in a ground-floor kitchen the next table, a guitar and a fiddle were the crowning glory on a Oysters ($12/4), Seared Scallops up in downtown Petersham! The where you can also get takeaway to Cold Drip ($4) made on Coffee player slide into song. I’m coaxed wonderfully unexpected pub meal, GREATER SYDNEY eat on the beach. ($12) with house-made (hot) sambal Alchemy is fruity, and perfect with into a Kilkenny Irish Beer ($8.50): taken in a venue that makes you feel 27 The Corso, Manly and moist Swordfish Belly ($18) their signature Beetroot Brownie “Aussies who don’t like Guinness like part of the family. The freshly The Ivanhoe Hotel (02) 9976 3955 with sweet soy and pickled apple. ($4.50). The menu peppers the tend to like it.” Natasha isn’t wrong, shucked Pambula Oysters ($3.50/ With alcohol-fuelled violence ivanhoehotelmanly.com.au Even the bread comes from Berry usual all-day breakfast options with so I take a companion meal - a each) revealed there’s a real chef plaguing Manly, this pub undertook Pub Bistro $$-$$$ Woodfired Sourdough just 73km some excitement: Smashed Avocado generous, golden-domed Steak and in the kitchen. Daniel Mulligan a total renovation by Paul Kelly, the Flanagans Dining Room away. ($15) and Tasmanian Smoked Guinness Pie ($18) topped with (ex-Pilu at Freshwater) aces both man responsible for The Bourbon Sitting facing a straight golden surf Thirroul Beach Promenade, The Salmon ($17) are both dressed up mash and mushy peas. The rest seafood and Italianate flavours, from and The Oaks. The resulting airy, beach in a gently renovated 1940s with 63 degree poached eggs. On of the menu shows the roots of Black Cobia Fillet with Cloudy Bay modern hotel has a whitewashed beachside kiosk eating from a menu Esplanade, Thirroul (02) 4268 1598 the sweeter side there are fluffy traditional Aussie cooking – from Clams, Artichoke and Chicory ($30) and gently weathered Hamptons focused on locally caught seafood flanagansdiningroom.com.au Hotcakes ($12), served in triplicate moist Corned Beef ($22) with to silky Kipfler Potato Gnocchi feel, with multiple spaces to enjoy. from Shellharbour is delightful. Seafood $$

owners look on with envy. “All of our cocktails FOOD NEWS are signature,” says McGoram, which is ambitious, until you see the menu. I try the Caramel-Corn Ask any of the top restaurants where their seafood comes Old Fashioned ($18) with buttered-popcorn and from, and chances are many of them will say Joto Fresh Fish, bourbon; it’s bittersweet with salted caramel especially if they’re serving sustainable seafood. Word gets syrup lurking amongst the ice – and definitely out, and after fielding countless calls from people who’ve one of a kind. Food is very Southern American dined in fancy restaurants wanting to buy their seafood meets Bondi, think Popcorn Cajun Prawns ($10) retail, the folk behind this restaurant-quality fish monger and Big Mamma’s Slaw ($8) alongside Sydney’s have registered and opened a fish market called Cleanfish favourite bar snack, the jaffle. The Cheeseburger Australia. Between 8am and midday every Saturday morning, Jaffle ($10), with shoestring fries (on the inside), you’ll find a mini-market of produce at 10 Baker Street, is a truly tasty ‘burger’ that vegetarians can enjoy Banksmeadow, as well as a wonderful selection of fishes too. Chorizo Quesadillas ($19) seem popular so you won’t see everywhere (particularly at these prices). we roll up a few with ample toppings, proving I took home Balmain bugs from Coffs Harbour, kingfish Neighbourhood you should trust the locals when you’re in their sashimi, green prawns and some beautiful pieces of Glacier ‘hood. There’s only one dessert, but luckily they 51 Toothfish - the “wagyu of the fish world”. The fishermen By Alex Harmon get their Oreo, Caramel Cheese Cake ($14) spot travel eight days to reach this remote fishing ground, and “Bondi needs more small bars,” says Simon McGoram, on: with peanut brittle on top and served in a glass, fish these bottom-dwellers for three months of the year. former bar manager of Porteño, as we grab the last gooey and undercooked, just the way it should be. Go Fried in clarified butter for three minutes on each side, the resulting Patagonian toothfish filets are truly astounding! table in the house. Seems real estate is tough, so on: introduce yourself to the Neighbourhood. www.cleanfishaustralia.com.au Neighbourhood has injected new life into an ailing 143 Curlewis Street, Bondi Beach (02) 9365 2872 community radio station. It’s working; people pile neighbourhoodbondi.com.au onto the pavement while next-door’s restaurant Bar Food, Cocktails $$ BAR FLY By Rebecca Varidel $ - mains less than $15 $$ - mains between $15-$22 $$$ - mains between $22-$30 $$$$ - mains over $30 BOTTLENECK BAR AND EATERY EASTERN SUBURBS straight for a well-mixed, post- weekend yum cha (12pm-4pm). Bottleneck Bar and the B’s have it: balls, Bloody Marys, work Martini ($18). Stave off Cocktails are Asian-inspired like the the Bar Fly and her BFF. The balls (by the way) are drunkenness with fat, fluffy pillows The Cookhouse refreshing Ginger Ninja ($16) with meatballs, and we are enticed by their aroma as soon of house-made Gnocchi ($18.50) lemongrass and Aperol, or the spicy as we enter the intimate space of bartender Nick Falling into that strange nether with roast pumpkin, sage, peas, region between pub and restaurant, Dragons Breath ($17). While the Hattingh. “It’s so small, it’s a hand-sell,” he tells us when Parmesan and nut brown butter - theme is kitsch, the food’s authentic. this beautiful sandstone building easily the most satisfying plate of we ask if there’s a cocktail list. Small at Bottleneck now boasts a good on-tap Prawn and Chive Gow Gee ($11) means it fits about 35 people max., and we’re seated gnocchi I’ve eaten all year. and Sesame Prawn Rolls ($10) are beer selection that includes 141 Belmore Road, Randwick at my favourite Bar Fly spot - on a stool at the bar. the best this side of Dixon Street. the refreshing, hoppy Riverside (02) 9399 9660 So while we do end our night with one of his famous 69 Summer Ale ($6/middy). It’s thecookhouserandwick.com.au Standout is the Nonya Curry ($17), Bloody Marys, I first tested him with my favourite bolstered by an inexpensive share Pub Bistro, Cocktails $$-$$$ a classic Malay dish. Duck Pancakes Sazerac. He waited confidently for my reaction: George ($18) are very tasty, but a tad plate selection that includes Dragons Den Food & Wine Bar Dickel Tennessee Whisky (Barrel Select), an absinthe ice overpriced; regardless it’s a great Brandade Hot Pot ($10.50), Lamb A new Asian tapas cocktail bar rinse, and perfect garnishes (he hit the spot with lemon lazy start to your weekend. Croquettes ($6) and planks of in the vein of Mamasan has peel by removing all the pith) - it was very good! Char-Grilled Haloumi ($5). Explore emerged on Bondi Road. Although 227 Bondi Road, Bondi 9365 5110 229 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst (0422) 263 226 the interesting selection of wines the darkness suggests late night dragonsdenbondi.com by glass, carafe or bottle, or head cocktails, it’s also popular for Asian, Yum Cha, Cocktails $-$$ facebook.com/BottleneckBarEatery

20

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

ANACONDA BRIEF ENCOUNTER Sarah Doyle’s critically acclaimed Brief Encounter “offers audiences more “I was so nervous about my first production will make its Australian then what they anticipate,” says lead rehearsal until Emma announced premiere this month at Bondi’s Pavilion actress Michelle Nightingale about that she encourages mistakes. There Theatre. Kneehigh’s adaptation of Noël Coward’s is nothing interesting in something Inspired by the true events involving original screenplay Still Life. perfect.” bullying and sexual abuse at a Sydney “It is theatre in its truest form.” For the tour down under, Kneehigh have grammar school in 2000, Anaconda is Set in England during the winter of commissioned two Aussie actresses for shown from the empathic point of view 1938-39, the production is centered the cast. of a bystander. Doyle felt this was an around Milford Junction railway station Michelle Nightingale and Kate Cheel interesting perspective and focuses on and follows the story of suburban are being described as “perfect fits” and the importance of always speaking out housewife Laura who is in a mundane have been welcomed by the Australian about abuse. but loving marriage. audiences. The play also explores why and how Switching between theatre, song and Brief Encounter has been surmised as minors can be bred into a culture that black and white film footage, director the “most haunting love story you will protects the molester/s. Emma Rice has successfully synthesised ever see” and together, Emma Rice and Writer/director Doyle began multiple forms of art and created Kneehigh have created a masterpiece in researching and work-shopping in early a “remarkable experience for the their adaptation of this journey of love 2012 and spoke to several victims, their audience”. and loss, maturing and growth. (TO) friends and journalists. Speaking on the direction of Rice, Oct 31-Nov 10, The Concourse, 409 “What I would want for people to take Nightingale exclaims that she loves the Victoria Ave, Chatswood, $45-78, away from Anaconda, is to always tell philosophy at Kneehigh. theconcourse.com. and don’t ignore the signs if you are a bystander. You don’t have to be the tough guy. Victims also tend to think ‘Why did they choose me? Is it my fault?’ and this can cause complex, long-

Photo: Zoe Coates Photo: term psychological damage.” The strong cast includes Martin Broome (All Saints, Nightmares and Dreamscapes) Damian de Montemas (Underbelly, Packed to the Rafters) Simon Lyndon (Paper Giants, Chopper) and Leeanna Walsman (Star Wars: Episode 2 - Attack of the Clones, The Recruit). (LK) Oct 29-Nov 23, Bondi Pavilion Theatre, Queen Elizabeth Dr, Bondi Beach, $21-35, 9356 0147, rocksurfers.org DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH Diamond in the Rough is the newest production to hit the stage every Friday night at the iconic Imperial Hotel, home of the original Priscilla show which was the inspiration behind the hit film. Featuring drag’s hottest new star Decoda Secret as a modern day Marilyn Monroe and supported by four of Australia’s most talented dancers, including Wil Sabin who also co-produces the show. “We wanted to bring some of the old drag glamour back to the stage, and what better venue to do it in than the home of drag? The Imperial Hotel!” says Sabin. Decoda has been pushing the boundaries of performance art with her androgynous look, sometimes appearing as a boy in heels, sometimes wearing very little at all. Checking out a drag show at the Imperial is simply a must for anyone lucky enough to live in Sydney. (VP) Every Friday, The Imperial Hotel, 35 Erskineville Rd, Erskineville, $5, theimperialhotel.com.au

Arts Editor: Leigh Livingstone Contributors: 24 STAGE Alastair Wharton, Alex Britton, Alexandra English, Alexis Talbot-Smith, Music Editor: Chris Peken Andrew Hodgson, Angela Stretch, Anita Senaratna, Cheryl Northey, 26 SCENE Live Music Editor: Chelsea Deeley Craig Coventry, Emily Jones, Gavin Fernando, Greg Webster, Hannah Chapman, Katie Davern, Katie Mayors, Leann Richards, Lena Zak, Lisa 28 SOUNDS Ginnane, Luke Cox, Luke Daykin, Lyndsay Kenwright, Marilyn Hetreles, Mark Morellini, Mel Somerville, Michelle Porter, Nerida Lindsay, Nick 29 SCREEN For more A&E stories go to Hadland, Paul Gregoire, Rhys Gard, Ruth Fogarty, Sam Crassweller, Suzy a&e www.altmedia.net.au Wrong, Tom Wilson, Triana O’Keefe, Vanessa Powell 23 THE WHARF REVUE LOVE FIELD If the absurdity of the political of the gags or routines from these The Bakehouse Theatre Company is presenting Love Field, climate has left Australia in a state of talented entertainers. a play by award-winning Melbourne playwright Ron Elisha despair, then the latest Wharf Revue about a conversation that never took place. provides an excellent remedy to one’s The Wharf Revue allows audiences The hypothetical conversation is between Lyndon B. despondency. to laugh long and loud at the truly Johnson and Jacqueline Kennedy aboard Air Force One, on Written and created by Jonathan ludicrous antics of our ‘leaders’. (SC) their way to Washington to face a grieving public after the Biggins, Drew Forsythe and Phillip Until Dec 21, Wharf 1 Theatre, Pier assassination of John F. Kennedy. Scott, this singing, dancing extravaganza, “They may have had a conversation because LBJ needed features Amanda Bishop, Simon Burke 4, Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay $45-63, to make some phone calls and the most private place to and Andrew Worboys joined by sydneytheatre.com.au do this was the presidential suite and that’s where Jackie Jonathan Biggins and was,” says Ben Wood (Henry IV, Empire), who plays LBJ. Drew Forsythe to Wood continues that Love Field is, “based on an actual present a hilariously conversation that was recorded ten days later between side-splitting satirical LBJ and Jackie. It’s a strange conversation, there’s a lot of view of the Federal subtext and information that you don’t get.” Election – and no one The play delves beyond the public personas of the two, is spared. Schramm Tracey Photo: exploring their fears and regrets at such a turbulent time. From Abbott, Rudd Love Field is directed by Micheal Dean with Lizzie and Gillard to the Schebesta (Mrs Warren’s Profession, Macbeth) playing Jackie Dalai Lama and Kennedy. Assange, these “It’s nice to be able to get back to a smaller theatre,” says talented performers Wood. deliver an impressively “Lizzie is such a great actress and Michael knows exactly shrewd satire. what he wants.” (PG) Audiences won’t have Until Nov 2, TAP Gallery, 45 Burton St, Darlinghurst, time to be bored or $22-30, bakehousetheatrecompany.com.au disappointed by any

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS Tony Sheldon, fresh from his huge success on “I play Muriel Eubanks from Omaha Nebraska,” REVIEW - HAMLET Broadway and the West End in Priscilla Queen she drawls, “who has just broken up with of the Desert, heads a stellar cast in this tale of her husband having found him with a dental conmen, their marks and the French Riviera. hygienist half her age.” Suave scammer Lawrence Jameson (Sheldon) Both Woods agree, “It’s a wonderful piece – fun, makes a wager with small-time hustler, Freddy fast and whacky. You’ll see some of the masters Benson (Matt Hetherington) as to who is the of musical comedy doing what they do best.” best. Boardman Brett Photo: “If audiences laugh the way I think they are Veteran of the small screen, John Wood (Blue Heelers) plays Andre the police chief and also going to,” adds Mr Wood, “it will be a smash chief facilitator of scams. hit.” “The idea of playing a corrupt cop for a change Big production numbers, laughs aplenty - and is a nice little irony,” says Wood. for the audience, their very own sting in the Along the way Andre falls in love with Muriel tale. (GW) played by theatre favourite, Anne Wood – no Until Nov 17, Theatre Royal, 108 King St, relation of course. Sydney, $49-110, ticketmaster.com.au

Shakespeare’s tragedies are vehicles for artists Director Simon Stone displays not just

Photo: Kurt Sneddon Kurt Photo: to express the extremities of human emotion originality and ingenuity, but also a keen sense and inconceivable psychological torment. When of playfulness. His Hamlet is surprising, intriguing created well, staging a play like Hamlet will allow and taut, showcasing some of the best theatre for the most outlandish and ostentatious of practitioners and their impressive dedication to acting styles. the art form. In Belvoir’s production, Toby Schmitz pushes Filling every moment with wonder and tension, his portrayal of Hamlet over the edge of sanity, giving audiences one of the year’s what the two have created here is courageous most memorable theatrical performances. and exhilarating theatre; Shakespeare for the It is a delicious execution and the actor is twenty-first century. (SW) magnetically powerful, whilst being controlled Until Dec 1, Belvoir St Theatre, 18 & 25 and considered. Schmitz is as intelligent as he is Belvoir St, Surry Hills, $29-65, 9699 3444, artistic, and the combination is lethal. belvoir.com.au

THEATRE & featuring all the unforgettable songs fancies. traumatic stress disorder. themes concerning Australia’s role chaos as the spirited protagonists PERFORMANCE from the hit movie. Everyone in the “What’s happened to this country The play’s protagonist Les Harding in Asia and fears surrounding this. defy traditions and escape their audience sings along,” says Mills. when a man can’t even control who is a returned serviceman on a (PG) suffocating world of wealth. GREASE Playing leading man Until Dec 8, Lyric Theatre, Pirrama lives in his own house?” exclaims Women’s Weekly Cherry Blossom Until Nov 16, SBW Stables Theatre, However, Williams insists romance Rd, Pyrmont, $89-140, 1300 795 Danny in Grease is the Word: The Crowley. cruise bound for Japan. The 10 Nimrod St, Kings Cross, $32-49, will still anchor the play as it has Musical, Rob Mills is a modest one. 267, ticketmaster.com.au Actor Geoff Sirmai (who plays drama develops when Les suffers griffintheatre.com.au “The last 15 years of my life THE GOOD, THE BAD AND across the centuries. Ahmed, the cheeky Iranian refugee) flashbacks to his days in the Changi ROMEO AND JULIET “In this hyper-superficial universe… I’ve been onstage. You get more THE LAWYER An asylum-seeker, describes his character as a cross POW camp. Following his STC debut with last a gambler and a lawyer walk into they meet each other and strike confident about who you are between Woody Allen and Harpo “It’s a vaudevillian look at post- year’s Under Milk Wood, 27-year-old during that.” a theatre. Brace yourself. The Tap up an authentic connection,” says Marx, with a Persian accent. (TO) traumatic stress disorder,” says co-resident director Kip Williams That confidence has been finely Gallery hosts Tony Laumberg’s Until Oct 27, TAP Gallery Theatre, 278 Peter Kowitz, who plays Harding, leads a talented young cast and Williams. honed since he was a finalist in the latest masterpiece. “There’s something eternal about The Good, The Bad and The Lawyer Palmer St, Darlinghurst, $24-30, 1300 “the play uses a lot of musical and crew in the production, with 2003 Australian Idol series. that idea of love at first sight.” (EJ) It’s a show billed as the number promises audiences a night of havoc 306 776, mca-tix.com.au vaudeville techniques to express Eryn Jean Norvill in her first STC one party musical that everyone and hilarity. THE FLOATING WORLD is quite a serious story.” appearance as Juliet and Dylan Until Nov 2, Drama Theatre, Sydney can relate to. The play depicts the tale of Henry an Australian black comedy from The current production brings a Young as Romeo. Opera House, $50-$95, “The songs in the show are so Crowley while pushing all the right the seventies that deals with more contemporary feel to The Williams’ interpretation explores (02) 9250 1777, much fun, energetic and fast-paced, buttons and tickling all the right xenophobic attitudes and post- Floating World giving emphasis to darker themes of rebellion and sydneytheatre.com.au

24

THE NAKED CITY TALKING THROUGH YOUR ARTS

in digital systems and networks have particularly altered the ART ON DEMAND disciplinary sense of what can be. [Ctrl][P] Objects on Demand DETOXIFYING THE CROSS My mother says that you should never run after buses because is a very simple interface, in which the creator can press three another one always comes along. I feel the same way about keyboard controls (the control button, down shift, and short key technology. I prefer slightly old technology. It is less smug. ‘P’) to print and materialise a work. Art, on first encounter in very new or unfamiliar technology, This is technology that is so ‘cool’ that it’s hard to imagine what provokes a cool response from its audience - regardless of its could be done with it. I feel that any art I could create would be content. The mere novelty of something new is so fascinating less powerful than the innovation and that technical ‘how does it to us that the ‘how’ tends to override the ‘what’. Utilising and work?’ would be the only reaction I could get with it. (AS) relying on more technology than any other era, the twenty-first century presents the 3D printer. [Ctrl][P] Objects on Demand, January 25, Object: Australian People like cool things. People like interactive art because they Design Centre, 417 Bourke St, Surry Hills, free, have never seen anything object.com.au like it. This is something I am uneasy of because maybe I would never have been able to make or operate it. Perhaps this is why one hides behind all this flashy technology, for not having what it takes to create by hand something visualised. From the very early stages of computer-generated art, programmers used classical forms such as sculpture, as models in their experimentation. By Coffin Ed, Miss Death & Jay exactly advocating that the Folk Attick Object: Australian Design Centre and Courtesy of Katz be resurrected in 2013 (although that’s the Artist collaborate on not such a bad idea) but what we Believe it or not there was [Ctrl][P] Objects on Demand would like to see is special dispensation actually a nanosecond in history to employ a 3D printing given to entertainment venues that when punters travelled to Kings lab equipped with nine 3D have an alcohol free policy. Cross on a weekend to drink printers, an exhibition, and a The City Council might even set up a coffee rather than alcohol in pop-up shop that explores prototype, much like the trial of the the what, why and how of their search of socialising and outdoor pissoirs some months ago. 3D printing. entertainment. The phenomenon Rent-free space could be provided for a Widespread computer may have only occurred at a few collective of musicians, even folksingers, usage and improvements select venues but it’s certainly to set up their own boozeless bar or something to reflect upon in club. There would be no need to show the current climate of boozing, ID at the door and bouncers would bingeing and brawling. You Promised Me and You Said a Lie to Me be irrelevant as an atmosphere of Maybe it was the enlightenment of communal respect would prevail. A neon sign shining loudly, of books with vibrant colours the 1960s but in circa 1964 you could A showcase for the nouveau sobriety, “Visibility is a trap” by Laurent to suggest the obfuscation and climb the steps of an old tenement these grogless venues would soon Glasso looms over an eclectic power of language. house, still adjacent to The Bourbon in become beacons of the New Cross mix of artworks in You Promised In the corner, Jesse Jones’, The Darlinghurst Road and enter a series Order, much to the chagrin of the Me and You Said a Lie to Me Predicament of Man, is a montage of rooms illuminated only by ultraviolet ruling club and pub booze bosses. curated by Alexie Glass-Kantor. of images from history overlaid Haegue Yang’s beguiling upon a backdrop of eternally lighting. This was the ‘Folk Attick’ and As drunken young men and women Strange Fruit is a forest of trees rolling hills, in a visual and for a measly five shillings you could stumbled towards the nearest taxi rank, constructed from metal bars, intellectual feast. drink all the instant coffee you wanted, they would pass the windows of these light bulbs and ivy-like tendrils of Eccentric and enticing, You lounge on an ample supply of oversized detoxified havens, glimpsing scenes of electrical wires. Dangling from Promised Me and You Said a Lie scatter cushions and enjoy what was human serenity and unbridled calm the branches are eerie plastic to Me is a grand voyage into the billed as “non-stop folk-singing by unheard of at 3.30am on the Golden representations of hands, eyes adventure of human existence. Australia’s best artists”. It was the Mile. and flowers which intrigue and (LR) beginning of the short-lived Sydney Research has shown that ultraviolet inspire. Until Nov 9, Anna Schwartz folk boom and duffle-coated young lighting can actually have a calming It is joined by Heman Chong’s Gallery, 245 Wilson St, students joined assorted bohemians in effect on both rats and people so Cover (Versions), a series of 51 Darlington , free, 8580 7002, an atmosphere of peace, reflection and maybe the Council could switch the paintings which mingles the titles annaschwartzgallery.com ‘Visibility is a Trap’, by Laurent Grasso, 2012 social conscience. street lighting to “ultra” after 1.00am. Needless to say this well-meaning Buskers have previously been denied experiment in alcohol free social access to the Cross in the wee small interaction was equally short-lived hours but a posse of Council subsidised GUEST RELATIONS - ROBYN STACEY as the cartel of colourful Sydney folk-singers, churning out old favourites One of Australia’s most acclaimed is naturally projected back into the businessmen extended their vice-like like Kumbaya and serenading the late- and leading contemporary art room, upside down and in reverse, grip on the KC nightclub and strip night drunks, could further enhance photographers, Robyn Stacey has allowing me to photograph the view club scene. These days any attempt to a celebration of peace and love – as once again produced exciting new and the room together in one image,” restrict trading hours or the sale of opposed to a flurry of punches outside work. Stacey explains. shots after midnight is strongly resisted the KC chicken shop. Her latest exhibit, Guest Relations, Stacey acknowledges that hotel by the various licensees as the State Forget about the banning of traffic “aims to explore the hermetic, yet rooms are waiting spaces, “waiting in Government and City Council pull from Darlinghurst Road and the need transient nature of the hotel room.” rooms for people to arrive, for events out all rabbits to curtail the weekend to show a linked ID when entering Normally characterised by modern to start, or just waiting to go home. grogathon. any of the twenty or so nominated simplicity and standardised comforts, They are also private spaces.” Well, believe it or not we did a quick booze barns. It’s time to change the KC Stacey transforms the chosen rooms Her aim to highlight the room’s survey amongst friends and fellow drinking culture altogether. The message by wallpapering the walls with the private purpose is achieved through travellers and found a sizeable number is you can still have a good time world beyond their windows. This is the dreamlike setting that serves as done through a traditional method a backdrop which materialises the of punters who would gladly venture without plying yourself with alcohol and of photography known as camera inhabitant’s distant thoughts. (TO) into an alcohol free Cross and merrily if we have to look to a tiny short-lived obscura. Until Nov 9, Stills Gallery, 36 drink coffee all night, albeit espresso club from the mid 1960s for inspiration, “By photographing the room using Gosbell St, Paddington, free, 9331 rather than Nescafe instant. We’re not then “O Lord, kumbaya!”. ‘Room 2015 Pullman Hyde Park, Brielle’, by Robyn Stacey, 2013 the pin-hole camera the external view 775, stillsgallery.com.au

26

ELEVENTH HE REACHES SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT LONDON - The 40th anniversary of one of Australia’s most “We’ve selected some of the best classical and BĀNHŪS famous landmarks and iconic cultural venues - the contemporary musicians to perform in the 40th After four years of Sydney Opera House - is being celebrated with a Anniversary concert,” says the concert’s artistic writing and recording month-long series of events culminating in a lavish director Dennis Watkins. Perth outfit Eleventh outdoor twilight concert. “While we recognise our artistic triumphs of the past He Reaches London deliver their most The western foyer of the Sydney Opera House will four decades, we are also looking towards the future ambitious album to date. The aptly titled house Danish Design at the House, a contemporary and our continued relationship with outstanding Bānhūs (an old English term meaning design installation curated by architects Gerard Australian performers. This is why we’ve included ‘bone house’) is a post-punk journey Reinmuth and Karen Kjærgaard. artists such as Megan Washington and Sarah Blasko.” through gothic landscapes and existential themes. Despite being only seven songs in David Moore’s acutely sensitive photographs of Recognising the links between Australia and length Bānhūs packs a punch right from the daring and genius Jørn Utzon’s architectural Denmark, Denmark’s Crown Prince Couple, HRH the start. The Dragging Cloud is a moody masterpiece will feature in a free photography Crown Prince Federik and HRH Crown Princess nine-minute epic that traverses styles as exhibition at Customs House. Mary, will be the honoured dignitaries and special it slowly grows while Body Unbind and The general public are also invited to enter the heart guests, along with members of architect Jørn Utzon’s No Funeral mark an introspective turn in of the building and explore the world-renowned family. the album. Dynamic and well produced, wood-panelled and cathedral ceiling Concert Hall The concert will close with the Sydney Symphony what is most enjoyable about Bānhūs is or walk the intimate stage of the Joan Sutherland Orchestra performing the work that opened the a demoniacal tension that swells beneath Theatre. Opera House in October 1973, Beethoven’s 9th the surface. (NH) The extensive program of events ends with the 40th Symphony, featuring soloists from Opera Australia and Anniversary Concert. It will feature an exceptional line- the Sydney Philharmonia Choirs. (CN) up of artists, including Deborah Mailman as master of 40th Anniversary Concert, Oct 27, Sydney ceremonies, Baz Luhrmann, Sarah Blasko, John Butler, Opera House, Sydney Opera House Forecourt, ROSIE CATALANO Megan Washington, Paul Grabowsky and members of Bennelong Point, Sydney, $30-79, 9250 7777, - DREAMS ARE the Wharf Revue. sydneyoperahouse.com ‘Sunrise on the Opera House - 1966’ by David Moore JUST MOVIES If dreams are just movies, then Sydney Live Music Guide comprised of talented her collection My Life as a time in 18 years, Celtic folk thoughts are just LIVE WIRE jazz and Latin folk from Piano will show her own pinnacle Clannad will be short songs being Watussi: Rock with provide tracks from their show at Sydney’s Brighton around our city will join and her band’s talents gracing the State Theatre written without critic. Rosie Catalano a rootsy kind-of vibe debut album as well as their Up Bar and this one will Pelladito to perform some when they perform original with their illustrious sound. offers listeners some of these thoughts; is bursting out of the 2011 collection El Olvido. see the boys take on a of the finest contemporary compositions as well as Honing their unique fusion arrangements, inspired some of the most famous they aim not to rhyme and not to please, underground, wielded by Thu, Oct 24th, The Basement much more dense crowd. of traditional Celtic, rock by the addictive rhythms pieces from the likes of but to intrigue and to live inside the ear these Aussie Latino-lovers. Violent Soho: Think From their track record, it and folk music over three Watussi have had stellar Blink 182 with a hardcore shouldn’t be a problem. of Cuba. Rumba, danzon Beethoven and the Rolling decades, the group has for a few minutes only. Dreams are Just Stones. This night will also success over the past few attitude and you’ll find Fri, Oct 25th, Oxford Art and bolero are all on offer released a brand new album Movies follows its own path beside those throughout this night to get allow audiences to learn years, with their ARIA Mansfield QLD boys Factory this year, titled Nádúr. that have gone before, stepping inside and your hips swinging and toes a thing or two, as Preston around. The rhythm is less easy to predict, nomination for debut Violent Soho. Their latest Palacio De La Rumba: tapping. will share some amazing This will be one of the making it more interesting to listen to. album Tequila, Sangre y LP Hungry Ghost has been This night will mark Sat, Oct 26th, Independent facts about the black and few chances to hear their Catalano’s ethereal voice beckons us from Fuego as well as a prime swirling around the Aussie the first visit by Havana Theatre white keys, as well as spectacular sound soar Hearts on spiraling thoughts, through the performance spot at rock scene, destroying percussionist Roman Justo Jan Preston: She is a some images and reflective through the air and take mind petering out in the natural life of Sydney’s Vivid LIVE Festival, everything in its path with Pelladito Hernandez to Sydney-based musician personal stories. audiences back to a time those thoughts. (SP) East Coast Blues and Roots tracks such as punk prodigy Australia, and what a way with a penchant for piano Sun, Oct 27th, The Seymour when this sacred traditional Festival and the Adelaide In the Aisle. They ramped to make an impression. A and a brand new album. Centre music was born. (CD) Fringe Festival. This night will up a crowd in their smaller 19-piece musical assembly Jan Preston’s launch of Clannad: For the first Wed, Oct 30th, State Theatre NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE - MACBETH In a unique blend of film and stage, National nuanced performances. This translates well to film, Theatre Live aims to capture the best of the UK’s creating more intimacy with the characters and National Theatre productions and screen them in stage, something not always present in live theatre. cinemas around the world. This year the program It amplifies the emotional pull of the performances, will culminate with their 50th Anniversary Special, sound effects and the dynamics of the church- which features illustrious legends of the stage from inspired stage. the past five decades as well as archive footage However, as film is traditionally a more visual from some of National Theatre Live’s most iconic medium, this doesn’t always suit the heavy and performances. verbose Shakespearean speech. The benefits of Filmed live at Manchester International Festival, one intimacy, somehow also diminish the immediacy of of Shakespeare’s most famous plays is at the helm some of the soliloquies. Consequently, there are of the Australian season - Macbeth. a few dull moments between the more dramatic In his first thespian role in a decade, Sir Kenneth scenes of the play. (MP) Branagh stars in the title role, while Alex Kingston National Theatre Live, Until Dec 11, Dendy is his Lady Macbeth. Living up to their reputations Newtown & Dendy Opera Quays, as British acting royalty, both deliver intense yet dendy.com.au WWW

tourists to provide for their CAPTAIN PHILLIPS little family, while his sister Captain Phillips is the true performance and Barkhad SISTER moves between jobs and The landscape features boyfriends. story of the 2009 hijacking Abdi is unnerving as Muse the predominately in this Also featuring a very different of US ship Maersk Alabama head pirate. beautifully shot, coming-of-age Gillian Anderson in a by Somali pirates - the first Captain Phillips exceeds all film by Ursula Meier. American cargo ship to be expectations with beautiful 12-year-old Simon (Kacey supporting role - who knew hijacked in 200 years. photography, a riveting Mottet Klein) lives with his she could speak French so This incredibly fast-paced screenplay and the use of sister Louise (Léa Seydoux) well? action thriller examines the unsteady camerawork which in an apartment block below Sister is on the slow side, desperate fight for survival heightens the realism and a mountaintop ski resort. but worth watching for the and the heroic efforts of sense of urgency. Everyday Simon rides the picturesque landscapes and Captain Phillips (Tom Hanks) This is an astounding cinematic chairlift to the top of the panoramic shots of the snowy to save his ship and crew. achievement devoid of the mountain, where he has Swiss Alps. (VP) Hanks leads an unknown cheesiness which is typical of resorted to stealing from rich WWW½ but effective supporting movies in this genre. (MM) cast, delivering a remarkable WWWW

RENOIR Renoir is content to go with unexpected energy. the flow “like a cork in a Théret’s ability to remain stream”, creating effortless unselfconscious combined beauty in the style of its with the sweet countryside, namesake, painter Pierre- beautifully convey the sun- Auguste Renoir. dappled light and rosy flesh of In his twilight years, Renoir a true Renoir painting. is tormented by the death of his wife and the news that French filmmaker Gilles his sons have been injured in Bourdos’s dreamy biography of World War 1, but the arrival Renoir is filled with drama and of Andrée Heuschling (Christa captures the lifestyle of 1915 Théret), Renoir’s last model, with respect. (AE) sees him filled with a new, WWW

ABOUT TIME On Tim’s parent go to find their missing Vinson) begins work in a remote A diary found near his bones as the spectacular 3D visuals Metallica: Through the Never (Domhnall Gleeson) 21st child when police investigations coastal town under the watch in 1930 propelled the myth and special effects bring the offers little to those who are birthday, he learns that all seemingly become stagnant? of Matron Cassidy (Rachel that still remains a mystery. space disaster to life. not diehard Metallica fans. (SC) men in his family can time The frightening subject Griffiths) and Dr Sebastian Roget Lasseter’s 85-year-old son Bullock and Clooney are the WWW travel. Eventually he learns the matter delivers an extremely (Charles Dance) at a private Bob and filmmaker Luke only actors onscreen and their talent is useful, particularly uncomfortable and disturbing hospital for comatose patients. Walker embark on a journey chemistry shines throughout. DIANA What should have when it comes to love. cinematic experience. At two It’s never a good sign when attempting to solve this enigma. Audiences will be astounded About Time is a quirky film; it and a half hours duration the been a well-intentioned tribute members of the audience Lasseter’s Bones is riveting, as this jaw-dropping marvel to the “People’s Princess”, combines gentle humour with a story builds slowly, but interest is start to laugh in the middle absorbing and extraordinary. Take unfolds on screen. (MM) standard romantic comedy plot. maintained through the effective highlighting her many wonderful of a tense, dramatic climax. this psychological journey and be WWWW½ Gleeson is an endearing leading use of suspense that leads to a achievements, results in a terrible This is one of those it’s-so- stunned by the revelation. (MM) man, Bill Nighy is wryly amusing satisfying, spine-tingling climax. and tacky narrative which bad-it’s-good movies. (VP) WWW½ METALLICA: THROUGH THE as his father, Rachel McAdams A superb cast with Hugh Jackman tarnishes Diana’s memory. plays the ingénue with ease, and Jake Gyllenhaal and excellent WW½ NEVER The 3D motion picture GRAVITY is an extraordinary combines a daring narrative in The ‘daytime serial’ style script and Lydia Wilson as Tim’s odd screenplay makes Prisoners is off-putting, inadvertently sister has the best role in this mandatory viewing. (MM) LASSETER’S BONES is an cosmic science fiction thriller, which crew member Trip (Dane comfortably predictable film. (LR) WWWW award-winning documentary starring Sandra Bullock DeHaum) is sent on an errand arousing laughter. WW½ that investigates the legend of and George Clooney. when he’d rather watch Metallica. As a sign of respect to Princess PATRICK In this remake of Lasseter’s Reef. Did Harold This incredible story of Heavily laden with live Metallica Diana this film should never PRISONERS is a chilling thriller the 1978 Australian cult classic, Lasseter discover a seven-mile survival is breathtaking and footage, Metallica fans everywhere have been made. (MM) which asks how far should a nurse Kathy Jacquard (Sharni reef of gold in Central Australia? unbearably stressful to watch will be overwhelmed with joy. WW½

29 FREEWILLASTROLOGY by Rob Brezsny CANCER (June 21-July 22): “Venice is to LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Don’t you wish your CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Have you dthe man-made world what the Grand gfriends and loved ones would just somehow jthought about launching a crowdfunding ARIES (March 21-April 19): “I’m greedy,” says Canyon is to the natural one,” said travel writer figure out what you want without you having to campaign for your pet project? The coming apainter David Hockney, “but I’m not greedy Thomas Swick in an article praising the awe- actually say it? Wouldn’t it be great if they were weeks might be a good time. Have you fantasized for money -- I think that can be a burden -- I’m inciting beauty of the Italian city. “When I went to telepathic or could read your body language so about getting involved in an organization that greedy for an exciting life.” According to my Venice,” testified French novelist Marcel Proust, well that they would surmise your secret thoughts? will help save the world even as it feeds your analysis, Aries, the cosmos is now giving you “my dream became my address.” American Here’s a news bulletin: IT AIN’T GOING TO dreams to become the person you want to be? the go-ahead to cultivate Hockney’s style of author Truman Capote chimed in that “Venice HAPPEN! EVER! That’s why I recommend that you Do it! Would you consider hatching a benevolent greed. As you head out in quest of adventure, is like eating an entire box of chocolate liqueurs refrain from resenting people for not being mind- conspiracy that will serve as an antidote to here’s an important piece of advice to keep in at one go.” I bring this up, Cancerian, because readers, and instead simply tell them point-blank an evil conspiracy? Now is the time. You’re in what you’re dreaming about and yearning for. mind. Make sure you formulate an intention to even if you don’t make a pilgrimage to Venice, a phase of your astrological cycle when you They may or may not be able to help you reach seek out thrills that educate and inspire you I expect that you will soon have the chance, have more power than usual to build alliances. fulfillment, but at least they will be in possession rather than those that scare you and damage metaphorically speaking, to consume an entire Your specialties between now and December 1 you. It’s up to you which kind you attract. of the precise information they need to make an box of chocolate liqueurs at one go. Take your informed decision. will be to mobilize group energy and round up sweet time. Nibble slowly. Assume that each bite supporters and translate high ideals into practical TAURUS (April 20-May 20): French will offer a distinct new epiphany. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Scorpios are actions. bphilosopher Simone Weil described the hobsessive, brooding, suspicious, demanding, following scene: “Two prisoners in adjoining LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Do you have any interest and secretive, right? That’s what traditional AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): In 2008, writer cells communicate with each other by ein reworking -- even revolutionizing -- your astrologers say, isn’t it? Well, no, actually. I think kAndrew Kessler hung out with scientists knocking on the wall. The wall is the thing relationship with the past? If so, the coming that’s a misleading assessment. It’s true that at NASA’s mission control as they looked for which separates them but is also their means weeks will be an excellent time to do so. Cosmic some Scorpios are dominated by the qualities I water on the planet Mars. Three years later, he of communication.” This muted type of forces will be on your side if you attempt any of named. But my research shows that those types published a book about his experiences, Martian conversation is a useful metaphor for the current the following actions: 1. Forgive yourself for your of Scorpios are generally not attracted to reading Summer: Robot Arms, Cowboy Spacemen, and state of one of your important alliances, Taurus. former failures and missteps. 2. Make atonement my horoscopes. My Scorpios tend instead to be My 90 Days with the Phoenix Mars Mission. To That which separates you also connects you. to anyone whom you hurt out of ignorance. 3. passionately focused, deeply thoughtful, smartly promote sales, he opened a new bookstore that But I’m wondering if it’s time to create a more Reinterpret your life story to account for the discerning, intensely committed to excellence, was filled with copies of just one book: his own. direct link. Is it possible to bore a hole through ways that more recent events have changed the and devoted to understanding the complex I suggest that you come up with a comparable the barrier between you so you can create a meaning of what happened long ago. 4. Resolve truth. These are all assets that are especially plan to promote your own product, service, more intimate exchange? old business as thoroughly as you can. 5. Feel important to draw on right now. The world has an brand, or personality. The time is right to summon grateful for everyone who helped make you who extraordinarily urgent need for the talents of you extra chutzpah as you expand your scope. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “I had tended you are today. evolved Scorpios. to view waiting as mere passivity,” says PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Right now you C SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): “If you’re author Sue Monk Kidd in her memoir. “When I VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): “As a bee seeks have a genius for escaping, for dodging, in pitch blackness, all you can do is sit l looked it up in my dictionary, however, I found nectar from all kinds of flowers, seek i for eluding. That could be expressed relatively f tight until your eyes get used to the dark.” That that the words ‘passive’ and ‘passion’ come teachings everywhere,” advises the Tibetan negatively or relatively positively. So for instance, helpful advice appears in Norwegian Wood, a from the same Latin root, *pati,* which means Buddhist holy text known as the Dzogchen Tantra. novel by Haruki Murakami. Now I’m passing it I don’t recommend that you abscond from boring ‘to endure.’ Waiting is thus both passive and That’s your assignment, Virgo. Be a student 24 on to you, just in time for your cruise through but crucial responsibilities. You shouldn’t ignore passionate. It’s a vibrant, contemplative work . . . hours a day, seven days a week -- yes, even the deepest, darkest phase of your cycle. When or stonewall people whose alliances with you are It involves listening to disinherited voices within, while you’re sleeping. (Maybe you could go to you first arrive, you may feel blind and dumb. important to keep healthy. On the other hand, facing the wounded holes in the soul, the denied school in your dreams.) Regard every experience Your surroundings might seem impenetrable I encourage you to fly, fly away from onerous and undiscovered, the places one lives falsely.” as an opportunity to learn something new and your next move unfathomable. But don’t obligations that give you little in return. I will This is excellent counsel for you, Gemini. Are and unexpected. Be ready to rejoice in all the worry. Refrain from drawing any conclusions applaud your decision to blow off limitations you devoted enough to refrain from leaping into revelations, both subtle and dramatic, that will whatsoever. Cultivate an empty mind and an that are enforced by neurotic habits, and I will action for now? Are you strong enough to bide nudge you to adjust your theories and change innocent heart. Sooner or later, you will be able celebrate your departure from energy-draining your time? your mind. gather the clues you need to take wise action. situations that manipulate your emotions.