THE COST OF ART SCHOOL’S SPEAKING LUMINOUS YOUR MIND WORLD FEATURE — page 10 THE REVIEW — pages 11-14

NUMBER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-FOUR FEBRUARY ’16 CIRCULATION 22,000 ALEXANDRIA BEACONSFIELD CHIPPENDALE DARLINGTON ERSKINEVILLE EVELEIGH GLEBE KINGS CROSS NEWTOWN PADDINGTON REDFERN SURRY HILLS WATERLOO WOOLLOOMOOLOO ZETLAND Yabun – talk the talk, dance the dance LYN TURNBULL

CAMPERDOWN: Yabun Festival on January 26 is a rich gathering place of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultural expression. The main musical stage featured headline act Bart Willoughby supported by prominent artists from many different cultures including Radical Son, Yarwah, Evie J. Willie, Bow & Arrow, Leah Flanagan, Drewz, Black Turtles, Nooky, Wizz, YBD and Tasman Keith.

Loren Ryan, a 19-year-old singer- songwriter from Tamworth, was among the emerging talents who performed at the Young Black and Deadly & Klub Koori Youth Stage. “Yabun is a wonderful platform, especially for a young artist like myself to be able to perform in front of my community and show them how I’ve evolved and grown as an artist, it means the world to me,” Ms Ryan said. The Corroboree Ground, with Kevin Kropinyeri as MC, was a popular attraction throughout the day, drawing large crowds who watched dance groups from across NSW perform traditional Aboriginal dance. Dance groups included Doonoch Dancers, Koomurri, Black Cockatoo, Wagana and Djaadjawan The Djaadjawan Dancers from Narooma at Yabun 2016, Victoria Park Photo: Claire Mahjoub Dancers. The Corroboree Ground closed with a memorable flash mob, when Williams, a Wiradjuri speaker, Jancita accent of “g’day” reveals the Aboriginal year for the Minister for Aboriginal Culture Nests based around the state audience members were invited onto the Tobin, a Dhurug woman, Tracey Skinner influence on our nation’s language. Affairs to announce funding for the – Dubbo (Wiradjuri), Lightning Ridge Corroboree Ground to join the dancing. from Discovery Museum in The Rocks, Lee Carr has taught the Wiradjuri Board of Studies to produce language (Yuwaalaraay), Lismore (Bundjalung), This year’s theme, “Our Future, Our and Lee Carr, a high school teacher of language at Tempe High School for the apps for five Aboriginal languages Wilcannia (Paarkkintji) and Coffs Youth”, was taken up in the focus of the Wiradgjuri, in a conversation about last two years. The school offers three (Wiradjuri, Gamilaraay, Bundjalung, Harbour (Gumbaynggirr) – to develop festival’s Speak Out Tent with Tracey reviving NSW Aboriginal languages. languages in Year 7 and 8 – Vietnamese, Paakantji and Gumbaynggirr). a fully benchmarked Kindergarten to Cameron, a Gamilaraay language student Ms Tobin spoke of using songs with Chinese and Wiradjuri. As Tempe’s is The Aboriginal Education Year 10 language curriculum, and from and teacher, engaging Ray Ingrey, a young children to “get the taste [of the the longest running off-country school Consultative Group and Chris Evans 2016 there is the opportunity for students Dharawal man from La Perouse, Bianca language] on the tongue” and pointed Aboriginal language program, Ms Carr’s of the NSW Board of Studies worked to take their language onto Year 12 for Willians, a Gamilaraay woman, Peta-Joy out to the audience that the nasal classroom was chosen as the site last with five Aboriginal Language and the HSC. S

Blackfellas and whitefellas gather for a yarn

SSH represents different things depending uniting Aboriginal and Torres Strait who you ask,” said Mr Roberts, a Islander peoples and non-Indigenous LAST Friday, in the lead up to Survival Thunghutti man who grew up in Redfern Australians through workshops and Day and Australia Day, Sydney-based on The Block. events held within safe and respectful Aboriginal Organisation YARN “To some he is the face of discovery spaces. “What we saw on Friday night Australia launched a new event and exploration while to many others was what the future can look like. It was called “Blackfulla, Whitefulla, Any he represents the time of conflict and very encouraging to see so many non- Fulla” at one of the city’s oldest pubs, dispossession in Australia. So for us Indigenous Australians and Aboriginal the Captain Cook Hotel. to hold an event there in the pub with and Torres Strait Islander people willing stories of Elders and young Aboriginal to listen and be present in a space of Attended by 200 people, the night and Torres Strait Islander people as the respect.” was a significant coming together focus was very powerful to be a part of.” While Mr Roberts understands that of whitefellas and blackfellas at the “Blackfulla, Whitefulla, Any Fulla” people may be surprised to hear about iconic venue, united by the celebration featured conversations with Uncle a partnership between YARN Australia Smoking ceremony led by Aunty Kathy Slater Photo: Annabel Campbell of survival through storytelling, music, Graham Mooney, Aunty Kathryn Dodd and the Captain Cook Hotel, he believes poetry, soup and conversation. Farrawell and Preston Peachey, as well these types of unique relationships are thousands of years of living culture to YARN Australia founder, Warren as deadly performances by the Black exactly what will help Australia build a celebrate in Australia and 228 years of YARN Australia and the Captain Cook Roberts, believes the event was a Turtles, who opened the main stage at more united future. “The Captain Cook shared history to talk about. We can’t Hotel have already begun planning the landmark occasion given the timing Yabun Festival, and Green Hand Band. team has been great to work with and change the past, but our event on next YARN event. To keep up to date visit: and the historical association of Captain Since 2007 Mr Roberts had been shares similar values to YARN. We’ve Friday proved there is plenty of hope www.yarnaustralia.com.au or join Cook. “There’s no doubt that James Cook developing YARN with a goal of spoken about the fact that we have for the future.” S Sixty Thousand Years on Facebook. 2 NEWS February 2016

PUBLISHER South Sydney Uniting Church Raglan Street, Waterloo The views expressed in this newspaper are those of the author and the article and are not necessarily the views of the Uniting Church. 2 NEWS November 2014 NEWS [email protected] Phone Lyn 0400 008 338 PUBLISHER The Transient Building – soon to be demolished Photo: Supplied ADVERTISING South Sydney Uniting Church Contact – [email protected] Raglan Street, Waterloo Phone Duncan 0402 525 061 The views expressed in this newspaper are Fresh approach to caring for people in need those of the author and the article and are not MAILING ADDRESS: necessarily the views of the Uniting Church. ANDREW COLLIS Going, going – goodbye PO Box 3288 Redfern NSW 2016 NEWS [email protected] BOTANY: THE Food Distribution Phone Lyn 0400 008 338 Network (FDN) held its Annual LETTERS General Meeting on Wednesday to ugly building Please send letters and emails to: ADVERTISING The South Sydney Herald. Contact – [email protected] October 29. The guest speaker Email: [email protected] Phone Julia on 0402 525 061 for the meeting was Kelly Smith, Supply sender name and suburb. Nutrition Programs Co-ordinator for SPONSORED There was a desperate shortage of space Size: 150 words or less. MAILING ADDRESS: for the students, and it was during this We may edit for legal or other reasons.PO Box 3288 Secondbite, with whom FDN shares Redfern NSW 2016 premises in Margate Street, Botany. GREG ROBINSON period that the “temporary” Transient Building was erected. FOUNDING EDITOR LETTERS Trevor Davies (25.5.1956—14.6.2011) Please send letters and emails to: The AGM was attended by staff, AT the University of Sydney, we are Although the initial post-war rush The South Sydney Herald. Management Committee members, Email: [email protected] very proud of our many beautiful dissipated, numbers of students have Supply sender name and suburb. clients, volunteers and supporters. buildings. From the elegant continued to climb steadily and the Size: 150 words or less. All expressed commitment to FDN’s sandstone of the Quadrangle, to the University has always needed the space We may edit for legal or other reasons. values and objectives – the care and varied terracotta of the Abercrombie provided by temporary buildings, which wellbeing of people who are aged FOUNDING EDITOR Building, to the stunning glass of the have also included the “demountable Trevor Davies (25.5.1956—14.6.2011) or frail or living with a disability. Phyllis Sequeira, FDN President, New Law Building, we are lucky to village” we have moved around campus MANAGING EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR spoke of challenges ahead in relation have some of the most beautiful and whenever necessary. And, ironically, Andrew Collis Dorothy McRae-McMahon to the National Disability Insurance indeed, state-of-the-art buildings in its many occupants have included Scheme (NDIS). “We are currently Sydney. Our new Sydney Nanoscience architecture students who apparently in the process of completing an Hub is both attractive and crammed found it more functional that other application for Disability Service with the most advanced technology purpose-built structures. MANAGING EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR Standards Accreditation,” she in the world. All transient things must come to an Andrew Collis DorothyAnzac McRae-McMahon Parade – trees willsaid. be lost “Achievement Photo: Supplied of the Home end, and, nearly 70 years since it was NEWS EDITOR ONLINE EDITOR And Community Care (HACC) Lyn Turnbull Vanessa Cartwright standards and the Disability Service Even so, we are also well aware that earmarked as temporary, the University Standards will put us in a good some of the structures on our campus commenced work to be rid of the position to be eligible for ongoing are less than lovely — some would go Transient Building in December 2015. government funding, as well as FDN Manager Peter Ince presents his report to theso AGM far Photo:as to Kat say Hines “eyesores”. We are doing We anticipate the space will be cleared NEWS EDITOR FightONLINE EDITOR ensure that to we are continually save Lyn Turnbull Cate Long our best to rectify that, and our long- at around the time of the students’ reviewing and improving our interaction, inclusion and care. term Campusimportantly, Improvement is fully equipped Plan will returnNSW to produces campus 800,000in early tonnesMarch of 2016. systems and operational processes We want and hope to continue to and able to meet the stringent food waste each year ($12 billion ASSISTANT EDITOR PHOTO EDITOR see the overall aspect of the University The good news is, not only will we in line with best practice.” contribute to the community well requirements of the scheme. It worth of waste according to www. Louisa Dyce Claire Mahjoub change for the better. lose the ugliest building on campus, greenUnder the canopyNDIS, clients with into the future,” Ms Sequeira said. will also help to place us at the lovefoodhatewaste.nsw.gov.au). a disability will be allocated Manager Peter Ince thanked Youforefront might have of like noticed services that so there that weis but weAttendees will gain were some encouraged open space,to demolition work going on at the campus with the site to be landscaped for the ASSISTANT EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR funding packages directly, and volunteers from Redfern (FDN’s are the premier and most attractive think creatively about their use of Louisa Dyce IRENEVanessa Cartwright DOUTNEY organisations like FDN willrapidly, have as manyformer as 57premises) trees will and Botany. at the choicemoment. for all The clients building to receive we are enjoymentthe fruit ofand all vegies who wanderin a typical through box to compete to provide services.go from Ashmore,“To those more who from did the come over removingtheir mightfresh produce,” well win he thesaid. prize ourfrom grounds. FDN. SuggestionsIt’s a very positiveincluded start FROM the Prime Minister“We understand to the that transitionalUniversity of Sydney,and to the and new so recruits it goes. who have as ugliestOne on client campus made … particular certainly it to 2016.salads, sandwiches, roasts, stir fries, S SUB EDITOR Lord Mayor we hearfunding calls will for be available to usIt seemsuntil therejoined is little our ranks consideration this year I say wouldmention not be winning of FDN’s anyrevamped awards for soups and smoothies. Ms Smith Miriam Pepper increasing and protectingJune 2016,” the Ms urban Sequeira said.for this essentialthank ingredient you for your of dedication andarchitecture! bi-monthly The newsletter“Transient which Building”, features assured the meeting that fruit and canopy, but these callsThe seemFDN Management to be modern urbancommitment living, the city’sto our wonderful however,good has nutritional been incredibly advice, important interesting vegies could be stored safely for Committee has been exploring cause,” he said. “It was important and easy to prepare recipes, an many days, “brown spots” removed DISTRIBUTION PHOTO EDITOR lostSUB EDITOR on the Baird state government lungs, and it bodes ill for the future in the history of the University. Ross Smith Claire Mahjoub Miriam Pepper various marketing initiatives, to retain the current client numbers absorbing quiz and “excellent jokes”. as necessary, and “limp” vegies [email protected] and its chosen developers.started to identifyWe know alternative of the plannedand redevelopment to increase our of clientele over At theGuest beginning speaker of Kelly World Smith War II, used to make soup or freshened-up DESIGNER DISTRIBUTION that change is inevitable,funding sourcesand new and partnershipsWaterloo. Thethe area autumn is currently and winter rich months. the Universityhighlighted had the shared3,500 valuesstudents. in a bowl of cold water. “Fruits and Ross Smith Robert Young infrastructure andand redevelopment has commenced applyingin trees for and healthyThis has canopy, been achieved which through In 1945,and enrolmentconcerns of thenumbers partner were Gregvegetables Robinson won’t is Director, ever make Campus you sick [email protected] www.theloop.com.au/rdfy projects will progresscommunity at growing grants. An updatedis spread throughmailbox residential drops and streets liaising with at justorganisations. under 5,000, Secondbite but after and theFDN Infrastructureunless they’re & Services. mouldy,” she said. DESIGNER PRINTER Robert Young speed, but they don’tthree-year have to Strategic destroy Plan hasand been the housingexternal estates, agencies and an … FDN currentlyWar, arethe committed government to providing introduced a healthy AuthorisedThe AGM by Michael concluded Spence, with Vice- Spotpress Pty Ltd www.theloop.com.au/rdfy the environment inpublished the process. at www.fdn.org.essential part servicesof the area’s in excess ambience. of 270 clients.” the Commonwealthvariety of fruit and Reconstruction vegetables to Chancellorrefreshments, of the Universitytea and coffee. of Sydney. S www.spotpress.com PRINTER “Feedback from our clientsThese trees, however,Mr Ince, face too, a spokevery about the Trainingthose Scheme, in need. enabling Both see thereturned value of Contact Details – Security & After Spotpress Pty Ltd indicates that they continue to find onset of the NDIS. “This should be home visits and social interaction for For more information or enquiries about There is currently an onslaught critical future with the proposed ex-servicemen to receive support Hours: 1800 063 487 (24/7). www.spotpress.com our offering unique and valuable to a conduit for making sure that the those with mobility or other issues. sponsorship and volunteering contact REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS against trees, as huge infrastructure development of a metro station at during their education. Numbers at Enquiries: 9114 0523; local. their diet, overall health and social organisation is ready and, more Both seek to reduce food waste. Peter Ince: [email protected] “We gratefully acknowledge the many [email protected]. volunteer contributors and distributorsREGULAR CONTRIBUTORS projects like the South East Light Rail Waterloo and the redevelopment the University jumped to 10,779 in 1948. who make this publication possible“We gratefully.” acknowledgeand WestConnexthe many begin preparation of the large housing estates. volunteer contributors and distributors Gabriel Azzi Julie McCrossinwho make this publicationfor large-scalepossible.” construction. In the We have seen the scorched earth Anya Beniac Isabel McIntoshKieran Adair Isabeleast, McIntosh along Anzac Parade, hundreds policy FACS has used at the Glebe Laura Buzo Bronwyn MonroAdra Anthoney Christine Morrow Sarahof Mulholland trees are being removed to make Affordable Housing Estate, where Anne Camac Michael PageAlice Appel Jack Butler Lucy Munro Philippa Clark way for the light rail which has everything was bulldozed and left Victoria PearsonLaura Buzo Olivia Nigro Samuel Clark Miriam PepperAnne Camac Michaelchanged Page its placement to meet the to stand desolate for years, and must Victoria Pearson Pat Clarke Joe Castley Michael Shreenan Elainedemands Pelot-Syron of Randwick Racecourse. A fight to ensure that the green canopy Liesa Clague Lindsay Cohen Blair Silverlock Miriamdecision Pepper has been made to sacrifice is protected and that repeats of the Isabella Dinhvu Catherine SkipperSamuel Clark Jesse Peters Lindsay Cohen Georgia Flynn Ada aQian boulevard of hundred-year-old, Glebe and Anzac Parade experiences Gai Smith Isabella Dinhvu Michael Shreenan Katie Gompertz Emily StraneyGeorgia Flynn Catherinehistorical Skipper figs to allow the expansion are prevented in Waterloo. S Jemima Hall Charlotte Tai Jemima Hall Gai Smithof bars, restaurants and gambling. Kat Hines Rowan TaylorMisa Han Andrea Srisurapon Kat Hines Rowan TaylorIn the south-west we have the Irene Doutney is a Greens Councillor on Liz Hughes Dean TomarasLibby Hogan Kate Texilake Lyndal Irons Maani Truu Liz Hughes Michaelgigantic Texilake WestConnex tollways which the City of Sydney. Greens NSW MP and Perry Johnstone Geoff TurnbullLyndal Irons Geoff Turnbull Charleswill Turnbull take slices of Sydney Park and Transport Spokesperson, Dr Mehreen Brittany Johnson Maggie Korenblium Marg Vazey Marg Vazey Perry Johnstone remove up to 370 trees. At Barangaroo Faruqi MLC, has called for a parliamentary Kelly Lane Bruce Wardley Chelsea Wallis Kelly Lane Bec Lewis Peter Whitehead Angeliquethe Watkinsmagnificent arcade of figs has inquiry into the CBD and South East Ada Lee Vanessa Watson norrie mAy-welby Kate WilliamsonQinling Li Peterbeen Whitehead cut down, and in developments Light Rail project and the loss of trees norrie mAy-welby Henry Whittaker Julie McCrossin Kateacross Williamson Alexandria trees are vanishing along Anzac Parade and Alison Road. Caitlin McDonald Catherine Wood DISTRIBUTORS

Eleanor Boustead norrie mAy-welbyDISTRIBUTORS Mark Bridget Mary Ellen McCue Georgina Abraham Julie McCrossin Gabrielle Brine Matt McLennan Sam Choy John Berry Rohan MacDonald Dorothy McRae-McMahonEleanor Bousted norrie mAy-welby Michael Condon Jane Morro Mark Bridget Marry Ellen McCue Yvonne Cowell Margaret NealeGabrielle Brine Matt McLennan Alice Crawford Barrie McMahon Jim PatsourisSam Choy Jules Cure Michael Condon Mark McPherson Sue Dahl Pepsee Yvonne Cowell Dorothy McRae-McMahon Peter Dodds David PocklingtonAlice Crawford Jane Morro Heather RobinsonSue Dahl Margaret Neale Food Distribution Network Jim Patsouris Peter Dodds Melissa Gibson Lincoln Sharp Pepsee TJ Eckleberg Perry Johnstone Colin Sharp David Polkington Food Distribution Network Anne Jordan Heather Robinson Ross Smith Melissa Gibson Desley Haas Adrian Spry Lincoln Sharp Perry Johnstone Colin Sharp Gabriel Haslam Tony Steele Anne Jordan Rod Haslam Ross Smith Gavin StraneyDesley Haas Adrian Spry Jennifer Jungheim Lani TuitavakeGabriel Haslam Tony Steele Anthony Kable Rod Haslam Lani Tuitavake Alexander Turnbull Susan Kable Jennifer Jungheim Alexander Turnbull Jennifer Laffan Margaret VazeyAnthony Kable Margaret Vazey John Lanzky Rosie WagstaffSusan Kable Brian Vazey Julie McCrossin Naomi Ward Jennifer Laffan Rosie Wagstaff John Lanzky Naomi Ward Kyran Lynch Peter Whitehead February 2016 NEWS 3

VENDOR PROFILE

BILL

Many of The Big Issue vendors come from a range of different backgrounds. Some suffer from mental or physical disabilities. Others may be recovering from addictions or social isolation. Gary suffered from long-term unemployment.

Gary worked for 34 years at the Australian Taxation Office. “I was Grace Smith (atheist), Jaxon Jennings (Christian), Zalman Kastel (National Director of Together for Humanity, Jewish) and Zohra Aly (Muslim) Photo: Supplied offered a redundancy package when they were implementing technology. With that I purchased a property in 1997.”

More work was hard to come by, Learning to get along however, and while Gary was still unemployed, he was introduced o matter what your opinion is on Australia’s immigration policies, even before the arrival of the British on this land in 1788, to a US-based company which promised to “virtually double NAustralia had been a thoroughly multicultural country with hundreds of Aboriginal languages and cultures living side by side your money in a month”. on this continent for centuries. This means that if we are to have a well-functioning, cohesive society with minimal conflict, there is a “I looked at the company and I thought, ‘Well maybe this is a clear need to understand how to successfully and positively negotiate difference. Recent developments such as the “Reclaim Australia” quick means to getting extra movement are an indication that our society still has a way to go towards becoming adept at understanding and embracing difference. assets because, if I was going to multiply my money in one Our foundation, Together for Humanity, now provides free resources to support schools and communities in doing just that. month, this would help me’. After a year, people really started getting worried. It was found out YOUTH OF TODAY question at all about themselves, people from different faiths and and encourage constructive that this company was actually their faith or their culture. This cultures. They seem like us. Same open dialogue between those not going to pay out funds at all. It was a fraud. GRACE SMITH gives students the freedom to voice hobbies, same likes and dislikes.” of different backgrounds. many niggling questions or beliefs We have big plans for increasing Ultimately, our message is that “I didn’t really have any funds TOGETHER for Humanity aims they may hold about people of a the scope of our engagement with real connections and meaningful available to go in on a class to demonstrate how people from certain faith or culture, without fear students in 2016, as we plan to relationships are key to improving action because I had mortgaged my place in order to invest. different faiths and cultures can of being told that their question is bonds between Australians of host an Inclusive Communities I had to sell my property to pay get along. Not just superficially, rude or inappropriate. In fact it is Youth Summit at Parliament House, different faiths, preventing alienation back loans because I was not on or when discussing easy, not uncommon for children to ask bringing together students from and ultimately preserving social any income to pay off the loan. uncontroversial topics, but on the our Muslim presenter, “Are you various religious and cultural cohesion and security. But this I didn’t end up with much at all deeper level, even while discussing a terrorist?” While this question backgrounds to workshop initiatives absolutely must be mutual. While out of the situation. beliefs and values which are would certainly be offensive if to make our society more inclusive. many of those who feel they are part “Because of this financial loss fundamental to our identity. asked outside of a controlled We have also introduced new of mainstream society may make I think it’s made me feel that, educational environment, when Australian curriculum/NSW syllabus demands that others assimilate or even at my age, I still want We believe that forming real it is asked to our presenters, it is aligned workshops, “Celebrations of integrate into our society, this does to re‑establish my financial relationships and creating bonds an opportunity for students to our Diverse Communities” and “Our not work as a one sided initiative. situation. The Big Issue is a good start for me to get an income of mutual respect with those of amend their understanding of Diverse and Connected People and In our work we have found that it is and is fairly permanent. I’m really different faiths is the key to resolving Muslim people based on a real-life Places”. Both workshops emphasise often those who feel like “outsiders”, quite confident out there with societal conflict between diverse interaction with a Muslim person. the importance of inter-cultural such as Muslim teenagers, who it. I make it a point of trying groups and fostering an inclusive, As well as these programs, we understanding and respect for are the most motivated to form to interact with people even prosperous society. Although we also run interschool programs diverse cultures. We now also connections. Sadly the goodwill of without them even purchasing. aim to encourage positive interfaith which generally bring together two have the privilege of being able to the “outsider” is sometimes weakly “I’m proud to be doing what and intercultural relationships in faith-based schools from different offer these programmes to schools reciprocated by those who already I’m doing regardless of the the wider community, much of religions to participate in a workshop free of charge, thanks to a grant feel comfortable and included in people purchasing or not. To me our work focuses on schools. together. These programs focus on from the Australian Government Australian society. Therefore, the that’s why I think The Big Issue This is because we believe finding similarities, rather than Department of Social Services. success of our work is entirely is great.” that education is fundamental speaking only about differences. As well as giving students the dependent on positive engagement You can find Gary selling most to reducing prejudice. Students are often amazed at the opportunity to broaden their from those from all areas of the days on the corner Market and Our school programs involve a countless similarities between horizons, we also offer both community. S Kent streets. He may appear panel of presenters: a Muslim, a them and their new friends despite face-to-face and online training to quiet and reserved but he is always up for a chat. Jew, a Christian and occasionally their often radically different faith, teachers to equip them with the skills If you would like to book one of our an atheist. Simply having a culture, geographical location to positively navigate difference programs for your school, you can make If you or anyone you know representative from each of the and socio-economic status. within the classroom. This includes a booking at www.togetherforhumanity. could benefit from becoming a major faiths in Australia physically Oftentimes, society has running staff development programs, org.au/get_involved/bookings If you’d vendor for The Big Issue, please contact the Sydney office for present at the school is an extremely inculcated children with the belief as well as our online courses like to stay up to date with what we’re more information: important aspect of our work. that, because they belong to a and resources. Our three online doing, follow us on Facebook (Together for 125-127 Little Eveleigh St. Many of the children may never certain faith, they are destined to modules, which are approved by Humanity) or Twitter (@TFHFoundation). Redfern; phone 8332 7200; have spoken to a Muslim woman fundamentally conflict with those BOSTES (Board of Studies Teaching As we are a not-for-profit, we rely on email [email protected] grants and donations from community or a Jewish man before and having of another faith, making interfaith and Educational Standards), PHOTO BY PETER HOLCROFT this direct positive contact can friendship seem impossible. These help teachers to maintain their members. If you’d like to donate to help to humanise “the other” and beliefs are often reinforced by accreditation. Our educational site our cause, you can do so at create awareness of our many religious conflicts overseas, or here (www.differencedifferently.edu.au) www.togetherforhumanity.org.au/ The Big Issue is Australia’s similarities as Australians. in Australia. Our programs help contains learning resources not only get_involved/donate. leading social enterprise. Our multifaith presenters use children of different faiths not just for teachers but also for children and Grace Smith is the Communications It is an independent, not­ for‑profit organisation that and Events Officer for the Together a range of activities to encourage to “tolerate” one another but to form adults who would like to learn more. develops solutions to help students to explore and understand real connections and friendships. Outside the classroom, we also for Humanity Foundation. homeless, disadvantaged stereotypes and assumptions as After one interschool program, aim to play a role in changing the and marginalised people well as to teach them skills for one student commented: narratives in the wider community positively change their lives. YOUTH OF TODAY, A REGULAR ARTICLE The Big Issue magazine is negotiating conflicting narratives, “There is no need for a barrier about difference and diversity. Our ON LOCAL YOUTH AND RELATED published fortnightly and sold understanding how conflict between between us regardless of what is national director Zalman Kastel ISSUES, IS KINDLY SPONSORED BY on the streets by vendors who groups arises and questioning happening overseas. We are all purchase copies for $3 and participates in various interfaith APPETITE CAFE prejudice. Another important aspect Australian citizens and should panels and events and speaks sell them for $6, keeping the difference. of our school programs is the Q&A embrace learning about people publically about the benefits of section. In this part of the program, that are different from us.” embracing diversity. We also have APPETITE CAFE To find out more visit: APPETITE cafe : redfern 82 REGENT ST, REDFERN ood www.thebigissue.org.au the students are given free rein While another commented: a presence on social media which + eople TEL 9699 4069 to ask any of our presenters any “It changed what I thought about aims to spread positive messages 4 SOCIAL JUSTICE February 2016 Would you hit a boy?

COMMENT someone hurting him. It may pain and long-term injury. We So tell me, who is surprised violence towards their person? be that our instinct towards have allowed intimate partner at the advertising campaign, I live it – but I don’t like it. I SUSAN CLAIR empathy was personal, extended violence, perpetrated by both men authorised by the commonwealth catch myself emasculating someone simply to this child whom we and women, to kill 79 women government, which reads “Violence for expressing pain. Unconscious CHATTING to his mum at the watch growing, and enjoy being last year. We allow restraint, against women, Australia says prejudice and society’s prejudices end of a music lesson, a curious, questioned by (“enjoy” it sometimes chemical and physical, in mental No”? Why don’t contemporary invite me to judge, to feel fear of sparky, and beautiful twelve-year- to the point of insufferable, hospitals in NSW. We publicly values tell that twelve-year-old their pain, to distance myself, to old boy informed us earnestly frustrated authoritarianism). boo young men who are brazen child who is happy to accept a block my heart to their truths. and with considerable pride that Lots of kids have caregivers enough to express a preference beating, that he shouldn’t have to But none of us need to be victims. he would “never, ever, hit a girl”. who want them to be safe. for non-violent interactions or experience pain and violence? Do Maybe we can find a new paradigm. His mum and I were both a bit However, respect for violence, who are sensitive to insult and you think it is okay to hit boys? We don’t have to slice our hearts up flummoxed, and we shared an and those who perpetrate violence, racism. We have made our national Men? Girls? Women? Transsexuals? into smaller and smaller pieces and instinct to protect him – and all is one of the moral realities of heroes Ned Kelly and some guy People of colour? Asian students? fight harder and harder for a tiny the other innocent twelve-year-old contemporary Australia. who was shot for stealing sheep. Homosexual people? Why is any sliver of love. Humans can feel pain children (determined to become We respect the police, we protect We revel in our violent past. We violence okay? Why do we bring without inflicting it onto others. honourable adults) who will our borders, and we honour the honour those who died pointless, young men up in the expectations We decide what we pay attention happily accept a beating from their fallen soldiers. We pay to watch violent, painful deaths in World that they will need to take punches to, we choose our beliefs, about peers, but never, ever, beat a girl. men embodying the spirits of War I, writhing in agony for what? in order to be men? Why are the whether war is necessary, whether animals, Bulldogs, Eagles and To protect a cruel empire from most honourable people in our pain is necessary. We can create It may be that as his caregivers, Eels, as they charge around a disintegrating under the weight society those who inflict violence our community, reflecting values we simply did not want to imagine field causing each other immense of its own blood-thirsty treaties. upon others, or who receive we decide on. S

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Casual sexism ties us to family violence

KATIE GOMPERTZ card details for a full refund.” and its implications, you won’t something less than a man, when are allowing entitlement to occur. Hmmmmm, so what just be able to un-see it, and once we continue to let men speak Part of this entitlement is the I’ve been thinking for a long happened there? Take a guess. you get over the overwhelming about women in a derogatory or idea that women are objects, time about writing on this Pulling the “feminist card” sense of anger that we’ve “let offensive way, when we let these to be owned and controlled and subject but wondered how it (as I am often accused of doing) it slide” over the years, decades opinions remain unfettered and that is how casual sexism is would be received. I decided is a fascinating concept; being and centuries, you won’t be unchecked, we, as a community, related to family violence. S I’d put into words what’s been berated for pulling someone up able to stop yourself pulling spinning round in my head for not extending fair and equal people up. And pull them up, you for months, because an event treatment really is, well, frankly must! Societal change doesn’t spurred me into action. stupid. Casual sexism, like casual happen at a governmental or racism, is a scourge we need to policy level. It starts with us, 03 01 79 A couple of months ago rid ourselves of, but most of us you, me and our community. Women dead Women dead Women dead I ordered a bookcase, but don’t even know we’re doing it. If you hear something, from domestic from domestic from domestic recently we decided we would But what does casual sexism say something. violence in violence in violence in cancel the order and go for have to do with family violence I I asked a group of friends November December 2015 a cheaper, more appropriate hear you ask? Well, really it has if they had ever been on option. So I called the store. everything to do with it: these the receiving end of casual The conversation went like this: casual attitudes and opinions sexism. These were the “Good morning, I would underpin everything a man does examples they gave me: IMPORTANT LINKS like to cancel an order I made to gain control over his spouse. “And will your husband COAST SHELTER www.coastshelter.org.au/kara a couple of months ago.” As Ken Lay pointed out in his want to see the car/house VINNIES www.vinnies.org.au/page/Find_Help/NSW/Domestic_and_family_violence/ “Okay, let me look your riveting, shocking and wholly before you buy it?” Crisis_Accomodation_For_Women_and_Children_Escaping_Domestic_Violence/ order up, can I ask why amazing speech in November “Simmer down, lady.” Family Relationships Online you’re cancelling?” on International Day for the “You women need to FAMILY RELATIONSHIP ADVICE LINE 1800 050 321 or www.familyrelationships.gov.au “Oh, we just decided it wasn’t Elimination of Violence against lighten up, it’s just a joke.” the best bookcase for us.” Women: “These men were “You’re being a girl, when HEADSPACE www.headspace.org.au “Okay, looks like we may not supported by indulgent and addressing a man.” KIDSMATTER www.kidsmatter.edu.au be able to refund the deposit. unaccountable cultures. These “Well, we can all see In the event that you have a child who has been in an unsafe home, or if one is known Are you sure you want to go men were supported by a society who wears the pants in to you, these are the services available to you in NSW:www.health.nsw.gov.au/mhdao/ ahead with the cancellation?” that encourages its female that relationship.” Pages/camhs.aspx. “Well, your invoice states a full victims to blame themselves “Is your husband money back guarantee. Is there a and stay quiet in shame. babysitting tonight?” reason I can’t get a full refund?” These men were supported “What’s a girl like you doing “Let me have my manager by our complacency, by our driving a car like that?” DO YOU NEED SUPPORT? call you back sometime lack of courage to examine And a classic to end with: “Is • If you feel you need to find somewhere safe, Jan from the Moving today. Goodbye.” our lifelong attitudes.” anyone’s husband an electrician?” Forward organisation can be contacted on 9599 3217 or email at How annoying. I know my Yes! Yes! And a Because no ladies can be tradies [email protected]. rights, it’s written there in black thousand times Yes! ever, can they? When we decide • If you or somebody you know is in immediate danger, call 000 now. and white. Grrr, I tell my husband Our attitudes, the way we a profession is only for men • 1800 RESPECT is a 24-hour hotline for any Australian who has to call them to see what they speak to each other, to women, we subconsciously prevent experienced, or is at risk of, family and domestic violence. say to him instead. He gets the men and our children, is so girls from even considering Call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visit www.1800respect.org.au same customer service officer. deeply entrenched I am not sure that profession as an option. • Safe Steps is a 24-hour family violence response centre. Call 1800 015 188 The conversation went like this: we even see the effects anymore. Again I can hear you say, what or visit www.safesteps.org.au “Good morning, I would Be enlightened, think about does this have to do with family • Lifeline provides all Australians with access to 24-hour crisis support and like to cancel an order I made what you’re saying, think about violence? I’ll leave you with this. suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14 or visit www.lifeline.org.au a couple of months ago.” what sort of effect it would have When our general attitudes • Relationships Australia provides support services for individuals, families “Sure, let me just confirm the on the recipient. I promise you support a woman being seen and communities. Call 1300 364 277 or visit www.relationships.org.au invoice number and grab your once you discover casual sexism as a second-class citizen or

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www.uniting.org ... to inspire people, enliven communities and confront injustice February 2016 NEWS 5

Update on ATP development

MAANI TRUU Another REDWatch member, Alexandria resident Desley Haas, who ALEXANDRIA: As of January 14, Mirvac has already lived through four years of Investing in our schools is has released its State Significant disruption during the construction of Development Application for the the Channel 7 building, seconded the an investment in our future recently purchased Australian importance of community engagement. Technology Park (ATP), inviting She had particular concerns over the submissions from the public. The use of the space. In the meeting it was The start of this month has been a big one for many exhibition, which runs until the end of established that certain areas of the families in our community as kids went back to school, February, includes the Environmental ATP would be allocated for community Impact Statement (EIS). The location facilities, such as a supermarket, or started school for the first time. In my house that of the development is specified as lots childcare and cafes. meant buying new shoes, checking uniforms fit, 8, 9 and 12 of the ATP, where three car “We don’t need another supermarket,” parks currently exist. Ms Haas said. “We should be building getting together books and stationery and meeting up our local businesses, not bringing in this year’s new teachers. It’s a time full of excitement Two points of interest that have more to compete with what the existing come out of the exhibition include the ones are already doing. and anticipation as you look to the year ahead, full of attempted increase in floor space, along “It came across that any services they new experiences and opportunities. with the question of building heights, say are being put in there are not for the with a planned nine-storey building Site of keen interest and vigilance Photo: Lyn Turnbull existing community, but for the extra within an existing four-storey zone 10,000 employees they are bringing in.” Unfortunately this year, accessing those opportunities raising concern. A spokesperson for Mirvac has might be even harder for some. Over the summer This is Mirvac’s latest step in the process. “I think they are aware that confirmed that they will continue to development, following the December the community that surrounds ATP involve the public in the planning Malcolm Turnbull announced that his government 2015 announcement of the sale. Over are some of the people that can best process, stating that a further the past few months, Mirvac has use and generate interest in the site.” information session is expected for is standing by its decision to cut $30 billion from been proactive in hosting a public Despite this, she emphasised the late February. “Mirvac is committed our schools over the next decade. This includes information session and meeting with importance for the public to remain to making the ATP a thriving place key resident groups. vigilant. for digital industries and a major abandoning the the all-important years 5 and 6 of The meetings involved general “It is complex because of the number employment hub with high quality the school funding agreement which would have discussion of the proposal, with of changes that will be occurring over public spaces that preserve the site’s specific concerns being raised about the next couple of years and it is very important heritage values.” been delivered by Labor. This is the largest ever cut to the inability of Redfern station to meet important for the public to continue to The final date for public submissions school funding and will see $119 million taken from the demands of the estimated 10,000 watch Mirvac’s agreements with the is February 29. S additional staff. NSW government, as negotiation and Sydney schools. Alice Anderson, spokesperson for consideration can still be taken into For further information or to view REDWatch – one of the groups targeted account,” Ms Anderson said. the exhibition please see the Local principals have told me they have used the by Mirvac – expressed her view that “It is very important that community Department of Planning website at Mirvac were eager to involve the members watch the site so Mirvac www.majorprojects.planning.nsw. extra funding from the Gonski reforms for projects local community in the development cannot destroy its integrity.” gov.au, under “ATP Redevelopment”. like a ‘Deadly Kids’ program to help families and teachers assist Aboriginal students in their learning,

our students have written, but employing specialist teachers to assist students with I have a soft spot for Home, our learning difficulties, funding literacy and numeracy community writing project about Redfern/Waterloo. I think of it as groups in classrooms and other fantastic programs. a patchwork quilt of memories of These are not only making a real difference in the the area, from newcomers to people who’ve lived here for decades. lives of individual students but are enriching the It features people from all walks of school culture as a whole. life, and a wide variety of cultures. Redfern has always been a wonderful melting pot and the book shows Labor introduced the Gonski reforms in 2014 to that, I think. We feel very lucky to give schools the ability to reduce class sizes, employ be part of this diverse community. In 2016, we’re embarking on State additional specialist teachers, support students who of Mind, a writing project that will take us across the state, documenting are struggling at school and build the skills and the diversity of teenage experience. knowledge of teachers. We’ll be running workshops in local schools, and more in Western Sydney and regional NSW. We’re really We are committed to funding a sector-blind, needs- excited about it, and hugely looking based school funding system. Every Australian has forward to hearing how different life is for, say, someone on a farm the right to access a quality education – regardless of in Bourke, or working at the IGA in background, circumstance, or location. Fairfield, or in the selective stream at Catherine Keenan at the Sydney Story Factory in Redfern Photo: Bec Lewis Alexandria Park Community School. Investing in our schools is an investment in our future. Are you looking for new volunteers? The earlier we invest in our kids the bigger the pay‑off Storytelling empowers Can anyone get involved? We always need volunteers! for the country as a whole, with a more skilled We have a lot but it can be hard to get workforce and bigger reinvestment by individuals young people, says Local Hero 10 people who are available on, say, a Tuesday morning. Most of our classes keeping Australia economically competitive. ANDREW COLLIS understand the world, and make are during or just after school hours. sense of ourselves within it. All great You don’t need any special skills to We will fight the Government’s cuts every step YOUTH educator Catherine Keenan change has come because someone volunteer: you just need to be literate, has been named Australian of the had a vision of a new world, then told and like being around kids. We have of the way – because every child in every school Year Local Hero 2016. The former a story about this that allowed others an amazing team of storytellers who deserves support to achieve their best. To find journalist, arts writer and literary to see this new, better world too. lead the workshops, and they break editor has been recognised for We all have stories about ourselves down the writing process into small, out more about how you can help head to her work as co-founder of the and our place in the world. In some easy chunks. The volunteer’s job is Sydney Story Factory in Redfern. ways, what we’re doing at the SSF is just to support the students as they do www.tanyaplibersek.com/ourschools Through the not-for-profit helping kids to create those stories each individual task: to ask questions, organisation, Dr Keenan has helped themselves, instead of being stuck in and encourage them. It’s not about Tanya thousands of primary and high other people’s stories about who they correcting grammar and spelling (that school students to improve their are and who they might be. Being comes later, as part of the editing writing skills and cultivate their caught in other people’s stories about process). It’s about being interested in creativity through storytelling. who you are can be horribly limiting. the ideas the child has, and helping to extend them. It’s also heaps of fun! What is it about stories/storytelling What are the projects and We would particularly welcome more that stirs such a passionate response? publications you are most proud Indigenous volunteers. S Storytelling is fundamental to to have been associated with? being human. It’s the main way we I’m super proud of all the stories www.sydneystoryfactory.org.au 6 NEWS February 2016

TENANTS’ WISH LIST Disrespect of vital community FOR WATERLOO ESTATE WATERLOO REDEVELOPMENT REDEVELOPMENT ANDREW COLLIS COMPILED BY ROSS SMITH WATERLOO: 1 T hat there be appropriate, genuine and sensitive It’s common knowledge that Christmas can be a particularly consultation with the existing public housing anxious season for many vulnerable tenant body prior to the formulation of any people. The timing of the government’s redevelopment proposal. announcement of plans to redevelop the Waterloo estate, and the means 2 T hat there be a timely and full supply of by which those plans have been information to existing tenants at all stages communicated, struck many residents of the redevelopment process. and housing representatives as highly insensitive and disrespectful. 3 T hat the mistakes from the 1970s slum clearances in Waterloo not be repeated. A letter from Social Housing Minister Brad Hazzard was hand delivered 4 T hat the mistakes made during the to 2,500 tenants on the morning of A good example of community development and creativity; a symbol of proud, dynamic community – the mosaic mural redevelopment of more than a dozen public the minister’s visit (December 16) to on the wall outside the Cook Community Garden on the corner of Raglan and Pitt Street. Photo: Claire Mahjoub housing estates, such as Redfern East and announce the major redevelopment Millers Point, be avoided. (2,000 apartments demolished and or community housing? What and mirrors. What’s the reality behind 10,000 new apartments over a 20-year percentage Aboriginal housing? this vision? And who will benefit 5 T hat there be a fully-developed and adequately- period) and construction of a new Tenant representatives feel overwhelmed financially? It’s a developer’s vision.” funded community regeneration/preservation Sydney metro station at Waterloo (the and “under fire”, confused as to why Geoff Turnbull of REDWatch shares plan in place before any works commence, with precise location has not been specified). the government would spring such an a concern for the welfare of tenants. meaningful input from the existing community. The letter was written in English only. announcement at the end of the year “Redevelopment of the buildings will Local housing representatives and when community centres had closed for not result in improvements for residents 6 T hat all steps possible be taken to preserve social services were notified of the the holidays. They are also puzzled at the unless it’s accompanied by changes the existing public housing tenant community. impending “community barbecue” late wastefulness of recent maintenance to in the way the government allocates in the afternoon of December 15. Not buildings now marked for demolition. housing to people with high needs and 7 T hat any social impact study captures the surprisingly, many failed to receive the A statement from Counterpoint changes the support services provided to diversity of the public housing tenant body. notice in time or were unable to attend. Community Services (aka The Factory help them maintain their tenancies with Arriving two hours later than scheduled, Community Centre) expressed dismay: minimal impact on their neighbours.” 8 T hat a community worker service to help the minister addressed a gathering at “These latest plans ... will come as Executive Officer of Counterpoint the existing tenants through any estate the Waterloo Neighbourhood Centre in a shock to many, and again we find Community Services, Michael Shreenan, redevelopment be provided from before Wellington Street, where senior staffers ourselves in the position that the added: “This development, along with the announcement of works to at least six remained until 4pm to answer questions. community will be consulted after the the others that will surely follow in the months after works’ completion. The letter and announcement, however, decision has already been made.” surrounding area, will have a profound raise more questions than they answer. “The letter is so disrespectful,” said effect on the public housing community, 9 T hat an adequately resourced reference While tenants have been assured of their one tenant who preferred to remain who are rightly concerned and anxious group, consisting predominantly of tenants, right to a home in the new development anonymous. “It’s both dehumanising about the news. Given issues such as be set up to liaise with government and (along with a guarantee of equivalent and demonising of tenants who make traffic congestion, the lack of plans to developer stakeholders at all stages of tenure), it’s not clear how the process of up a vital community. We are not improve currently inadequate social and the redevelopment project. interim placements will be handled. the problem. The problem is lack of community infrastructure, coupled with A boost to social housing is certainly government support, too little funding the projected increase in density, will come welcome, but what percentage for maintenance, and inappropriate as no surprise to residents who are cynical 10 T hat a community study and assessment of this “social” housing will be allocations. We all know that.” after previous unsatisfactory discussions project, similar to that undertaken at public? What percentage affordable Another tenant said: “This is smoke with government.” S Minto, be conducted and used to inform the development of the project, with annual follow up studies to follow. 11 T hat the community safety taskforce report Redeveloping Waterloo – here we go again developed as part of the Department of Premier and Cabinet's Redfern-Waterloo WATERLOO REDEVELOPMENT with Housing NSW undertaking a entitlements. Such entitlements would not Partnership Project be used as a benchmark federally-funded Preliminary Master normally transfer to community housing. for the redevelopment project, especially the GEOFF TURNBULL Plan for the redevelopment. BEP2 did not touch the public housing report’s community development/enhancement Much of 2011 was taken up with within the heritage conservation area and built environment sections. THE NSW government’s Christmas consultants, studies and arguments predominantly in Waterloo, however present to Waterloo public tenants about the benefits or otherwise of the after the Millers Point sell-off, tenants 12 T hat any information or report developed with was the announcement that proposal. Despite undertakings that the will be watching very carefully to tenants’ input be made available to the tenants planning to redevelop their homes material assembled would be shared ensure that this public housing stock at the same time as it is provided to those would start in early 2016! with the community, neither the final is not lost while the focus is on the commissioning the report/information capture. BEP2, the Housing NSW Master Plan, Waterloo estate renewal down the hill. While the announcement came as a subsequent studies undertaken by the Over the next couple of months the 13 T hat any “social mix” program, as well as the shock to many tenants, the redevelopment government architect nor the Sydney government will have the opportunity overall redevelopment project, be formulated of public housing in Redfern and Waterloo Metropolitan Development Authority’s to put its case for its proposals, and with due regard to the many published studies has been on the agenda of both Labor and growth studies have ever been released. hopefully tenants will be able to by recognised research organisations, with a Liberal governments for over a decade. It was not until UrbanGrowth NSW’s interrogate the proposals and see if view to avoiding negative impacts identified In 2004, in an address to the Committee Central to Eveleigh project came along they would really deliver what has been in those studies. for Sydney, Bob Carr compared that locals learnt that BEP2 had been promised. There is much suspicion Redfern-Waterloo to Darling Harbour rejected by government on the grounds it about government intentions from the 14 T hat all government departments and bodies and said the transformation of the was not financially viable and that much earlier consultation, and this could supply adequate services to fully address area over the next 25 years would be greater densities than that consulted be addressed in part by government and resolve any issues arising from the similar to what Sydney had seen in the on in 2011 would be needed for the releasing all the studies undertaken over redevelopment and its legacy on or around preceding 25 years at Darling Harbour. redevelopment to become viable. the last 10-15 years so the community the estates. Based on work undertaken by The decision to place a metro station in has all the information necessary to the Redfern-Waterloo Partnership Waterloo provides UrbanGrowth with the understand the current proposals. 15 T hat there be no loss of or variation in Project in the Premier’s Department, rationale for the much higher densities Old-timers and students of inner- the nature of any public housing tenancy Redfern-Waterloo got its own Redfern- needed to redevelop the Waterloo estate. Sydney history will know that Waterloo Authority (RWA) and and/or tenure arising from or during the Under the draft BEP2, the 2013 units of during the building of the present Minister (Frank Sartor) in late 2004. public housing on the estate were to more Waterloo estate battles literally raged redevelopment. The Sydney Morning Herald, in “Towers than double to about 4270 units of social, between those trying to stop the demolished as aid to social levelling” in affordable and private housing, of which development and the NSW government, 16 T hat existing green space and community November 2004, reported that confidential 40 per cent (1708 units) would have which saw the development as facilities be increased proportionately on a government documents dated October become public housing – a net loss of 305 much needed urban renewal. per‑capita basis to match any population density 2004 proposed that “distinctive high- units of public housing from the area. The public housing within the increase in the redevelopment area. rise public housing towers of Redfern From media reports of the December conservation area is a remnant saved by and Waterloo could be pulled down … announcement, the new proposal is the community action and green bans 17 T hat a functional system be put in place to About two-thirds of the department’s for 10,000 units on the estate (five that stopped even more of Waterloo being ensure the development and maintenance of 23.4-hectare Redfern-Waterloo estate times more units than currently) but sacrificed to the very housing estates a “seamless” community in the area affected by would be handed to private developers”. with no loss of “social” housing. government now wants to redevelop. any changing social mix. While the RWA undertook a number “Social” housing includes community As the next renewal chapter starts of studies, it was not until January housing providers, so there is no everyone should re-watch Tom Zubrycki’s 18 T hat the tenants’ knowledge of the estate 2011 that it released a copy of its Draft guarantee the new stock will be under filmWaterloo , which documented the and its workings be respected and valued at Redfern-Waterloo Built Environment the control of Housing NSW, however earlier struggle. Hopefully, we can all all times. Plan Stage 2 (BEP2), which outlined the Minister has provided an assurance learn from earlier debates about urban its plans. This consultation dovetailed that tenants will not lose their existing renewal and try to get it right this time. S February 2016 NEWS 7 Jenny Leong MP STATE MEMBER A wrecking ball FOR NEWTOWN WATERLOO REDEVELOPMENT rationale for the new Metro line. social worker, supermarket, And even though much clubs, friends and family. DARREN JENKINS remains unclear and uncertain We know land around the new about the plan, there are some line will be handed over for ever- AS the NSW government readies things we know all too well. increasing density and not amenity. Public And Affordable Housing its wrecking ball to tear through We know from the government’s And we know others living along Waterloo, it has become plainly own study into the forced relocations a perfectly serviceable railway line Must Be Key Priorities In clear that once again our friends in Millers Point – the very report it will be without services for years. and neighbours in public tried to hide – that kicking people The government knows all this Waterloo Metro Development housing have been given only out of their homes of many years too but has chosen the wrecking ball the barest of afterthoughts. will wreak havoc on their lives. nonetheless. S Happy New Year! I hope that you’ve had the opportunity We know that for years at a The government’s reckless time, residents will be cut off from Darren Jenkins is President of to recharge and prepare for the year ahead. indifference towards some of the the long-established access to Friends Of Erskineville most vulnerable amongst us is their everyday lives and support In December, just before many of us were heading off on only compounded by the shaky networks. Their doctor, pharmacy, our summer break, the NSW Government confirmed that Waterloo would be the site of a station, part of the new privately owned Sydney Metro. “My initial feelings have not changed. I see only potential positives The announcement will see UrbanGrowth NSW taking over the development of large parts of our Redfern/ for developers, a category in which I include the present Baird Waterloo community – including significant amounts government, and potential negatives for public housing tenants of public housing. This is cause for serious concern. Not because redevelopment of and investment in who are being treated as if without a say in their destiny …” public housing isn’t needed, but because UrbanGrowth WATERLOO TENANT NSW’s track record in our area has seen some pretty devastating outcomes – most recently the selloff of the Australian Technology Park and the massive proposed overdevelopment at North Eveleigh. Hundreds of public housing residents in our area Reactions and rumours now face uncertainty. All of us face the prospect of WATERLOO REDEVELOPMENT have had a few enquiries about has been talking about it”. When greedy, developer-driven overdevelopment. the details of the redevelopment probed further on whether they BILL YAN especially from the Chinese residents. have checked with the Housing The government has committed to return the same Some of those who have an NSW department officers, they number of public housing residences in the new SINCE the announcement of idea of the announcement have all responded that the office has development, and we welcome that commitment. But we the Waterloo Redevelopment in since succumbed to some wild provided little to no information December 2015, most of the CALD rumours. These spurious rumours about the details. need to make sure that they will be able to house the (Culturally And Linguistically ranged from being allocated $10,000 Here, we have advised the CALD same number of residents. We also need to ensure that Diverse) residents have little to $15,000 into their bank accounts residents, especially in this case the existing residents are consulted, well-informed and treated idea of the significance of to help with their relocation, being Chinese community, to be patient the announcement on their put in a hotel from mid-2017 until and not believe in any information with dignity and respect throughout the process – after all tenancy. Some even have the new units are built, to getting a unless they receive the information we are talking about people's homes! no knowledge at all of the brand new unit by late 2017. directly from the Department announcement. When asked about where they’d of Housing. S We are also calling on the government to make a got such information, their responses commitment to affordable housing targets as part Since returning to work from the ranged from “getting the information Bill Yan is the Executive Officer of of UrbanGrowth NSW's agenda. festive holidays, our staff members from their neighbours” or “everyone South Sydney Community Aid. Due to sky-rocketing property prices and ever-increasing rents, more and more people are being priced out of Community our inner-city communities. They are forced to move “Speaking with less regret for what will be away from friends, jobs and the services they depend on. The plans by UrbanGrowth NSW should be used as photo project lost, I think it’s great to have the dynamic an opportunity to provide housing that low- and middle- income earners can afford. WATERLOO REDEVELOPMENT of mixed housing, along the lines of what has already occurred at Minto, which the If you are concerned about what’s happening, BILL YAN please join Greens Councillor Irene Doutney and IN light of the Waterloo Minister mentioned as an example of good myself along with your fellow residents at a public Redevelopment announcement, meeting to discuss the changes. South Sydney Community Aid new urban planning” is planning a photo-journalism Where: The Factory Community Centre, WATERLOO TENANT project for residents living in 67 Raglan St, Waterloo the two salient public housing buildings: Matavai and Turanga. When: Thursday 11th February, 5-7pm.

The project has significant Cheers, historical and cultural value as these “What is the moving schedule and who buildings may be demolished under the urban transformation plan. At will be moving first? Will the tenants be present, there is no commitment to keep any of the current public questioned about their requirements and housing buildings. The project Jenny Leong MP intends to document community life. desires? When will the new development We understand that public housing model be available for review?” Can we help? has mostly been stereotyped as If you are concerned about a local issue or office can assist you ghettos of the socially unwanted and WATERLOO TENANT undesirable. Commonly, media tell with a specific matter, please get in touch. stories that reinforce this negative imagery. Our experiences with Waterloo residents paint a very different picture. It is not difficult “What proportion of the rental housing in Authorised by at all to find hardworking, sincere Jenny Leong MP and down-to-earth people. the redeveloped area would be owned and Through this project, we hope to State Member for Newtown show the candid life of some of the operated by the NSW government or its 383 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042 residents. The photos will capture their emotions and humanity, along agents, that is, remain Public Housing?” T: 02 9517 2800 F: 02 9230 3352 with interviews to facilitate the [email protected] collection of their life stories. S WATERLOO TENANT 8 NEWS February 2016

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Assure Psychology Illustration: Sam McNair URBAN NATURE WELLBEING CENTRE 216 ENMORE RD (CNR EDGEWARE RD) ENMORE NSW 2042 WestConnex – Caring, confidential psychological services to help you deal with life’s difficulties ‘smoke stacks and mirrors’ Bulk billing available on referral from GP BEN AVELING will get its money back. History and [are typically] due to traffic demand Contact Elizabeth Munro on 0408 612 808 basic mathematics are against him. forecast being overly optimistic. or at [email protected] THE WestConnex New M5 EIS The Cross City Tunnel only cost $1 This has led to a situation where it (Environmental Impact Statement) billion to build, and it couldn’t turn is likely the private sector sponsors was released in December 2015. a profit. The New M5 is going to cost will be unwilling [...] to take on all It shows that the New M5 tunnel at least $3.5 billion, and it is forecast or part of the development and start will terminate in St Peters, at to carry only half the traffic that up traffic risk [and instead the NSW the southwest corner of Sydney the Cross City Tunnel does. There government will take the risk].” Why Park. Traffic from the New M5 is no way that the New M5 can be does the NSW government think will emerge onto Euston Road and profitable, however expensive the that WestConnex can be profitable Campbell Road. tolls are – and the more expensive when the private sector does not? the tolls are, the fewer people will The New M5 is a waste of Over 60,000 vehicles are expected use the New M5 and the more people taxpayers’ money that could be better to use Euston Road, and just will use the free alternatives. used elsewhere, such as on projects under 60,000 are expected to use To help pay for the New M5 tunnel that improve transport infrastructure Campbell Road. This is close to and its sister tunnel, the M4 East, out west or in the regions, or in our 10 times as much traffic as Euston tolls are being put back on the M4, area to help us cope with the massive Road currently carries, and fully and on parts of the M5 that are not rise in density that we are facing over five times the traffic Campbell Road currently tolled. The EIS predicts that the next ten years. The $18 billion currently carries. Both roads will this will reduce traffic on the M4 and that WestConnex will cost is more be busier than Victoria Road. the M5 by so much that, even in 15 than the cost of the Western Sydney Campbell Road will be widened years time, it will not have recovered Transport Infrastructure Program as far north as Unwins Bridge Road, to where it is today. Those who can and Fixing Country Roads combined. and extended south to Gardeners afford to pay up to $10 each way to Anthony Albanese, Labor Member Road via a new bridge over the travel on WestConnex will save a for Grayndler, Shadow Minister Alexandria Canal. Euston Road few minutes – if only until they try for Transport & Infrastructure 276 ABERCROMBIE STREET, DARLINGTON – 0424 125 678 will be widened as far north as to emerge into gridlock at St Peters. and Shadow Minister for Cities, Maddox Street, where one of the Those who cannot afford the has called on the Auditor General extra lanes will end with a left turn toll will be forced onto other to audit WestConnex. NoW-PT, a into Maddox Street. The roundabout free roads, which will be more pro-public transport action group, at the intersection between Sydney congested than they are now. has a petition calling for such Park Road and Euston Road will This will be especially so if the an audit, which can be found at be replaced with traffic lights, Department of Transport acts on www.tinyurl.com/audit-westconnex. and right hand turns into Sydney a proposal in the EIS to convert Ron Hoenig, Labor Member for Park Road will be banned, except lanes on the Princess Highway and Heffron, has called for the New M5 to ACCESS SYDNEY for buses. Rat-running through Parramatta Road into bus lanes. be scrapped. Mehreen Faruqi, Greens Community Transport local streets seems to be not The New M5 brings not just MLC and Transport and Environment only inevitable, but intended. traffic, but pollution. Inner-city spokesperson, and Jenny Leong, As users of the existing roads residents are already exposed to Greens Member for Newtown and A not-for-profit community organisation providing will be aware, traffic in the area is levels of PM2.5 particles and other spokesperson for WestConnex, already bad, and unsurprisingly, pollutants that exceed national have gone further and called for affordable transport options for residents living in: the EIS predicts that if the project guidelines. Unsurprisingly, the WestConnex to be cancelled entirely City of Sydney, City of Botany Bay, Randwick City, goes ahead congestion will become EIS predicts that WestConnex will and for the allocated funds to be Waverley and Woollahra Council. much worse. Oddly, the EIS predicts make these levels significantly redirected to public transport. that if nothing is done, congestion worse. The exhaust stacks (which Alexandria Resident Action Medical Transport will improve, even though new the EIS calls ventilation stacks) Group Convenor Vanessa Knight housing developments in and around will be unfiltered, and there will be also called for the project to be Shopping Transport Alexandria and Erskineville are set to two of them within a few hundred cancelled, describing the EIS as Social Outings add an additional 150,000 residents. metres of St Peters Public School. “smoke stacks and mirrors”. The WestConnex is currently Roads, especially tunnels, are Residents were given until January Private Hire forecast to cost $18 billion, although expensive, and move relatively few 29 to submit formal objections. There the forecast has been going up by people – perhaps 2,000 vehicles have been calls for an extension For more information and to find out if you are eligible please call: about $2 billion a year since it was per hour per lane. This is a fraction of time to object. Assuming no first announced with an expected of what can be moved by heavy extension is granted, people wishing price tag of $10 billion. Duncan rail, or light rail, or bicycles. to register an objection to the Phone. (02) 8241 8000 Gay, Minister for Roads, Maritime The EIS business case says that WestConnex project should contact and Freight, has said that the State with toll roads, “losses to investors their local members of parliament. S February 2016 COMMENT & OPINION 9 The need for affordable housing

EDITORIAL an affordable housing company, and others. The panel will be followed by SSH an open forum. The SSH will report on the event in ACCORDING to figures released our next issue. We’re keen to make space by the Bureau of Statistics, the for ongoing reflection on housing as a Redfern-Chippendale area ranks basic right, and affordable housing as a among Australia’s most unequal measure of a just and sustainable society. neighbourhoods with almost 19 per It’s a matter of cooperation (with cent of the area’s combined income governments, service providers, accruing to the top 1 per cent of community groups), towards inclusive earners. As house prices and rents and egalitarian neighbourhoods – have risen throughout the inner city, it enriched by contributions from people has become for many an unaffordable of different social and economic place to live. backgrounds. An inclusive inner city will house a variety of workers and Affordable housing refers to encourage all manner of work (including “reasonable” housing costs in relation essential services, cultural and artistic to income. A common benchmark is that endeavours) for the benefit of all. affordable housing is housing that does UrbanGrowth NSW has said it is not absorb more than 30 per cent of a looking to create new dwellings in inner- very low, low or moderate household’s city areas targeted with a combined income. Developed with assistance annual income of between $100,000 cartoon: norrie mAy-welby from state or federal governments, it and $150,000. Were government may include a range of housing types agencies to start mandating levels and sizes. Usually managed by not-for- of low- and middle-income housing profit community housing providers, on new developments close to 20 per affordable housing is most commonly cent, it would represent a significant Papal encyclical makes its mark available for rent. change from current practices. In We need more affordable housing in the City of Sydney, just 2 per cent of FAITH stance on issues with real social, goes on to speak of the notion of the inner city. How much is needed? new developments are reserved for economic and political significance. an “ecological debt” owed by first What can affordable housing contribute affordable housing tenants, though the NEIL ORMEROD First and most significantly the Pope world nations to the poorest. and what should it look like? Tim council has a 2030 target of 7.5 per cent indicated his acceptance of the “very “Inequity affects not only Williams, the chief executive of the (with another 7.5 per cent for social WHILE Popes are in the habit of solid scientific consensus” (LS 23) individuals but entire countries; it Committee for Sydney, has pointed housing). Rental levy programs in releasing encyclicals on a regular on human induced climate change. compels us to consider an ethics to London, saying, “they typically go Green Square, Ultimo and Pyrmont, as basis, they generally attract little This stance lies at the heart of the of international relations. A true for about 40 per cent, as a mixture of well as partnerships with the Salvation attention outside the Catholic controversy around the document. ‘ecological debt’ exists, particularly affordable and social housing”. Army and neighbouring councils, offer Church. Occasionally they touch Of course, there is some irony between the global north and south, On Thursday February 4, from grounds for hope. S on sensitive or controversial in the fact that for centuries the connected to commercial imbalances 6-7.30pm, a gathering at The Factory issues which draw comment, but Catholic Church had been criticised with effects on the environment, and Community Centre in Raglan Street, Housing NSW provides information about more commonly they disappear for not listening to science; now it the disproportionate use of natural Waterloo, hosted by community action renting and applying for affordable housing with barely a ripple, even within is being criticised for attending to resources by certain countries over group REDWatch, will consider some including contact details for community the Catholic Church itself. what the best science is saying. long periods of time” (LS 51). of the key issues. Questions will be housing providers. www.housing.nsw. However, once you accept this To help meet this ecological debt addressed by a panel of affordable gov.au/centre-for-affordable-housing/ The most recent encyclical by position, a number of things follow, he calls on wealthy nations “to housing tenants, a representative from for-renters-of-affordable-housing) Pope Francis, Laudato Si’, on the consequences the Pope is willing to help pay this debt by significantly other hand, was the most anticipated draw in his encyclical. For example: limiting their consumption of encyclical of recent time, attracting “We know that technology based non-renewable energy and by READERS' LETTERS full possibilities of moving together as comment, debate and criticism even on the use of highly polluting assisting poorer countries to One Mob. before it was officially released. fossil fuels – especially coal, but support policies and programs of National pride? Jim Monro Some 18 months prior, Pope Francis also oil and, to a lesser degree, sustainable development.” In this 7.30am, January 26. We arrived at Balmain had indicated his intention to release gas – needs to be progressively regard, the so called “Green Climate the WugulOra (One Mob) Indigenous Grief and a new agreement an encyclical on the environment, replaced without delay” (LS 165). Fund” is not an act of beneficence Ceremony at Barangaroo Reserve under the first major document by a Pope He then went on to argue the on our part, but the repaying of a As many of you are aware we are an overcast sky. The harbour lay directly on this theme. There were also clear need for binding international debt we owe to the world’s poorest grieving the loss of City of Sydney in front of us with the Bridge dominating indications that climate change agreements to limit greenhouse nations whose resources have Deputy Lord Mayor, Robyn Kemmis. our view to the right. Against the pale would be a focus of the document. gas emissions. He gave a scathing been plundered and who are now Robyn was an outstanding councillor grey clouds, its dark greyness gave Given the level of political debate rebuke to the world community suffering the impact of our excesses. the right sombre touch for a profound and community activist and I very much on this topic, it was certain that the for its failure to act decisively and Throughout the encyclical ceremony. enjoyed working constructively with encyclical would be controversial. proportionately to our problems. Pope Francis states and restates Indeed even before its release, The Pope notes, “it is remarkable “everything is connected/ Uncle Allan Madden delivered a warm her on Council. there was a concerted effort to how weak international political interrelated”. The way we treat Welcome to Country. He described the As a result of her vacancy on Council, undermine its anticipated message. responses have been” (LS 54). the earth is mirrored in the way land of the Eora lying between the three I have entered an agreement with At a conference organised in Rome While he acknowledges areas of we treat ourselves, especially the rivers – the Hawkesbury to the north, the Lord Mayor Clover Moore, to ensure by the Heartland Institute – famous environmental success, in the poor. The poor nations of the world Nepean to the west and Georges River to the continuing stable functioning of for its climate change denial and area of climate change not enough have done the least damage to the the south. By noting that the Eora nation the City of Sydney Council. You can for its defence of smokers’ right to is happening: “With regard to environment, especially in relation included 29 clan groups Uncle Allan see the full agreement here: https:// make themselves sick – Catholic climate change, the advances have to climate change, yet they are the clarified that we were being welcomed clrdoutney.files.wordpress.com/2016/01/ and prominent climate sceptic Lord been regrettably few. Reducing ones who are suffering the most to Gadigal land here on the grassy slopes memorandumofunderstanding.pdf. Christopher Monckton, attacked the greenhouse gases requires honesty, from its consequences. He asks The agreement will allow me a greater at the northern tip of Barangaroo. Pope for exceeding his authority: courage and responsibility, above us to hear “the cry of the earth role in shaping the City’s policies and Governor Hurley’s fine address “You demean the office that you all on the part of those countries and the cry of the poor” (LS 49) showed that a leader could be up programs. Importantly, it also ensures hold and you demean the church which are more powerful and lest we turn our planet into “an to speed on issues pertaining to that I will continue to vote, as always, in whom it is your sworn duty to pollute the most” (LS 169). Too immense pile of filth” (LS 21). contemporary Aboriginal society and line with Greens policies and principles. protect and defend and advance.” often the common good is trumped It is clear that this encyclical was its relation to the rest of Australia. The agreement has been endorsed by Closer to home an Australian by economic forces overriding part of a concerted effort by the Pope The Jannawi Dance Clan performed Greens local groups, as per our ongoing priest, Fr James Grant, adjunct political responsibility. The Pope to influence the Paris climate talks. several dances including their Flag commitment to grassroots democracy. fellow of the Institute for Public backs up this concern with a call There are some indications that he dance. This coincided with Jessica I hope that this agreement will lead Affairs, published a piece in The for strong international action on personally intervened in a situation Mauboy singing “Advance Australia to enhanced productive and progressive Australian the day before the carbon emissions: “Enforceable where one nation was dragging the Fair” from the top of the Bridge, first governance at a Council I am proud to encyclical was released stating international agreements are chain on a final agreement. How in Gadigal, then in English, as the represent. that Catholics did not have to urgently needed” (LS 173). In much influence his encyclical had Aboriginal and current Australian take the Pope’s concerns on arguing in this way Pope Francis we will never know. But it does Irene Doutney flags were raised over the great grey climate change seriously. He had was clearly seeking to influence indicate that Pope Francis is placing Greens Councillor, City of Sydney arch. The Jannawi Fish Net dance a follow-up piece a few weeks the Paris climate negotiations the environment into central focus was beautifully performed and netted later entitled “It’s Unchristian to conducted in November 2015. in the Christian life: “Living our the whole audience into a mood of [The SSH acknowledges the wonderful Oppose Coal Generated Power”, Pope Francis is most concerned vocation to be protectors of God’s reconciliation. contribution made over many years suggesting that the Pope’s concern about the impact of climate change handiwork is essential to a life of This was a most dramatic opening to by Councillor and Deputy Lord Mayor for the poor would be better placed and other forms of environmental virtue; it is not an optional or a a day that always presents challenges Robyn Kemmis, and with respect to her promoting the advantages of destruction on the world’s poor. secondary aspect of our Christian for people who want to have pride passing expresses sincere condolences to her cheap coal-generated electricity. Already altered weather patterns, experience” (LS 217). S in Australia, but know that until the family, friends and colleagues. We wish the This degree of pushback is a good particularly droughts, shifting rain injustices of the past are faced up to and Council and its leadership every success in indication that this is no ordinary patterns and increased weather Professor Neil Ormerod is staff of have been acknowledged in a tangible 2016, and thank our representatives for their encyclical. As predicted by both its events, are disproportionately the Institute of Religion and Critical way, it isn’t possible to embrace the dedication and service to the community.] promoters and detractors it took a impacting on the world’s poor. He Inquiry, Australian Catholic University. 10 FEATURE February 2016 The cost of speaking your mind How an Iranian human rights defender was dragged to prison on her wedding day

At the height of an Australian summer is it is hard to avoid weddings. The celebrations are everywhere, in every function centre and social media feed. But what if your wedding was stopped: not because of bad weather or a groom with cold feet, but because the police had arrived to arrest the bride who dared to speak out about women’s rights? It’s an unconscionable situation, but one which has happened to a young Iranian activist who was sentenced to 10 years in one of the country’s most notorious prisons.

FEATURE reform and opposing human year prison sentence were issued. rights violations in recent years. Amin was distraught to find he EMMA SCHILLER Her human rights work was would not see his wife outside of cut short, however, when she was prison for another two years. He ON the day of her wedding, Bahareh arrested on December 31, 2009. argues the additional two-year Hedayat should have been enjoying She was charged with several sentence was a vindictive decision the crazed preparations for the “offences” related to her criticism that should have been, at the very celebration. Instead, the Iranian of the newly elected government. least, pursued and forwarded to the student activist was arrested by Bahareh’s sentencing was Sentence Enforcement Unit during plain-clothed police officers and extensive: in May 2010 she was her prison term rather than the ad has spent the last decade being sentenced to six months in prison hoc process that was applied. arrested, imprisoned and silenced. for insulting the then-president Amnesty isn’t the only Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, two years organisation appalled at Bahareh’s Bahareh never had the traditional for insulting the Supreme Leader situation and fighting for her Iranian wedding ceremony. She Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and five release – the pressure is coming never had a wedding day. Instead, years for gathering and colluding from all corners. In September, she and her husband, student to commit crimes against national 30 leading university professors activist Amin Ahmadian, simply security. A two-year suspended – including Noam Chomsky – Bahareh Hedayat with her husband Amin Ahmadian Photo: Supplied moved in together. But it hasn’t prison term previously imposed for signed an open letter urging Iran’s been an easy start to “married” her participation in the June 2006 president and its chief of judiciary Unfortunately, Bahareh’s story is medical care, Narges is not life: Bahareh was arrested again demonstration calling for an end to release Bahareh. But again the far from unique. An estimated 18 allowed to make phone calls to and remains in prison despite being to discrimination against women cries are falling on deaf ears. women considered to be prisoners her children, eight-year-old twins due for release. As a result of her in law was also implemented. An of conscience are held at Evin who recently moved to live with ongoing imprisonment, the couple additional six-month sentence was Not an isolated case prison, including Bahareh. Of their father, a refugee abroad, as have spent less than a year together added as punishment for having Bahareh is held at the women’s those, 10 are mothers and four they had no caregiver in Iran. in their seven years of marriage. written a letter, together with fellow ward at Tehran’s notorious Evin have children under the age of 10. These two women’s stories are Bahareh found herself on imprisoned student activist Majid prison where female prisoners do The human rights defender Narges just a snapshot of an Iranian judicial the wrong side of the Iranian Tavakkoli, in December 2010, not have access to a telephone. Mohammadi, a vocal advocate landscape that shows a flagrant Government’s attentions when she encouraging students to continue Bahareh has kidney complications against the death penalty in Iran, disregard for individuals’ right to free became a founding member of the their peaceful struggle for freedom. and reproductive health issues, is languishing in Evin prison with speech. Their stories as prisoners of One Million Signatures campaign, Bahareh has now served half of according to her husband, and a number of medical issues. On conscience are tragic and galling but, a grassroots initiative to end legal her 10-year sentence in Evin Prison no access to medical care. Amin August 1, she suffered partial sadly, not unusual. S discrimination against women in and is eligible for parole under has pleaded with her not to go on paralysis and was taken to Taleghani Iran. She is also a member of the Iranian law. Her release orders a hunger strike (“she has already Hospital. Although doctors advised HOW YOU CAN HELP Central Committee of the Office were issued on August 12 but the endured six years in jail, that’s that she needed to be examined Amnesty International continues to for the Consolidation of Unity, a 33 year old was held in prison enough,” he says) but if she is by a specialist, she was returned fight for Bahareh Hedayat’s release. national student body which has illegally until, on August 17, orders not released she is adamant it is to prison the very next day. Supporters can help join the fight been active in calling for political for enforcement of a further two- her only way to take action. As well as being denied urgent online at http://ow.ly/Xii9N Sydney Metro – the monster returns

OPINION Sydney Metro! MTR Corporation as a full heavy rail line with double- to Chatswood will be servicing because it didn’t make sense to is courting the state government deck trains, but within 18 months low-density housing areas. Because build a metro to the North West. COLIN SCHROEDER with its Hong Kong business of taking office, it had broken its the line is being built with tunnels The CBD Metro was killed off by model, where its metro lines promise. It announced that the too small to accommodate double- Kristina Keneally, because it was MOST people would think that the are financed by the building of NWRL would be a rapid transit deck trains, including the extension over-priced, a waste of money and building of a new rail line is about apartment towers above shopping line with single-deck trains. It was under the Harbour, there will be didn’t serve any substantial purpose. providing public transport, to get mall complexes at each station. renamed the Sydney Metro when no possible way of increasing the The current version of the metro, commuters out of their cars and to The redevelopment of Waterloo the announcement was made that capacity of the line in the future! if it is not stopped, will take over ease congestion on the city’s roads. will be the first example of the the line would be extended under Why build incapacity restraints and destroy Sydney as we know In the case of the Sydney Metro, “mini-Hong Kongs” that will Sydney Harbour, through the CBD into a new rail line? This was a and love it. We either surrender they would be wrong. The Sydney mushroom up along the route of and on to Bankstown via Sydenham. very political decision made by to the MTR Corporation’s plan or Metro is actually a tool to allow the the Sydney Metro. The building Metro lines are usually built the government; it means that demand our democratic rights to redevelopment (over-development) of a station at Waterloo is not to serve medium- to high-density the line can never be integrated determine the future of our city. of large swathes of Sydney with being done to benefit the public areas of population with frequent into the Sydney rail network. Sydney does need more rail high-rise apartment blocks. housing tenants in the suburb; it stops (500 to 1,000 metres between Privatised from the start and being lines and in some instances, is being done to provide corporate stations) and provide a service fully automated with no staff on a true metro line would be These high-rise apartment profits at the cost of destroying every two to five minutes. The the trains and few if any on the appropriate. The Sydney Metro blocks will be built around the the existing community. profile of the tunnels and the trains stations, the metro will have no as it has been conceived and is metro stations, not only to finance The Sydney Metro is the third are generally smaller than those of employees for unions to represent. being built, is inadequate for the construction of the line, but incarnation of metro in Sydney; first heavy rail lines; defining examples The decision also benefitted the Sydney’s transport future. also to provide massive profits there was the original North West of metros are the Tube lines in MTR Corporation, as the NWRL, In the future, the people of to the developer and future Metro followed by the CBD Metro. London and the Paris Metro. as it was then known, became the Sydney may ask questions as profits to the operator of the line, All three versions of the Metro have The Sydney “Metro” is not a “thin edge of the wedge” that MTR to how the Sydney Metro came with the residents becoming been headed up by Rod Staples, who metro as normally defined. It is is now using to push its way into into existence and, hopefully, a the passengers on the metro. was first appointed by the Labor actually an underground heavy Sydney property development. parliamentary inquiry or a royal Who will be the developer of government and then appointed by rail line built with tunnels too Metro in Sydney has become a commission will expose the facts these apartments? The developer the O’Farrell government to manage small to accommodate double-deck bit like a horror movie where the that led to its creation. S could end up being none other than the North West Rail Line (NWRL). trains. The stations will be up to monster keeps coming back after Hong Kong-based MTR Corporation, The O’Farrell government came to six kilometres apart and the first you thought it had been destroyed. Colin Schroeder is the Eco Transit the appointed operator of the office promising to build the NWRL section from Cudgegong Road The first incarnation was stopped co-convenor. The Review February ’16 11

Alex Grilanc at the Orchard Gallery Photo: Gabriel Azzi Jovana Terzic (right) with inaugural artist-in-residence Johnny Bell Photo: Gabriel Azzi A year (or two) in the manse

Catherine Skipper classes. He introduced the South contextualising the content. Alex was within a supportive community. something good and powerful. She Sydney Art Group to the technique of impressed in turn by Jovana’s success But what lies ahead for them? sees it situated somewhere outside THE stunning exhibition stencil making and the use of spray in bringing out unifying themes. Alex is not too keen on looking Sydney in a beautiful bush setting. A Year in the Manse by the paint, neither of which he believes Jovana felt the exhibition had been into the future. He hopes that in 10 In other words, Jovana hopes to Orchard Gallery’s current artist- the participants had encountered a resounding achievement as it not years time, he will still be making make a difference, to help the song in-residence Alex Grilanc was prior to his classes. Alex found that only deeply impacted on the viewers art that critiques and resists and that be heard amid all the shouting. curated by the gallery’s former the students, most of them several but also sold well. For Alex success he will still have a connection with We wish them well. artist-in-residence Jovana Terzic. decades older than he, were eager to lay in discovering that his work was the South Sydney community. absorb and apply their newfound skill. appreciated and valued by others. Jovana dreams of creating an art A Year in the Manse, Works by Alex Both talented young artists feel that During this time he also contributed It is evident that the artist-in- colony/community/school/exhibition Grilanc, curated by Jovana Terzic, at being artist-in-residence has offered illustrations to the South Sydney residence program offered both space where creative, thinking and the Orchard Gallery (56a Raglan St, them an invaluable experience. Herald, an endeavor appealing to young artists a great opportunity to willing people can gather and share Waterloo) until February 17. For Jovana says that the program helped his interest in issue-based artwork. broaden their artistic experiences ideas, inspire each other and build appointments phone 0422 175 922. her immensely both professionally For example, his year in the manse and personally. She was “fresh off the enabled him to observe first hand the boat” at the time (2012). She didn’t ongoing gentrification of Redfern- know anybody, people didn’t know Waterloo and to use his art as a means her, and having someone put their trust of critiquing the effects of this process in her and give her a chance to show on the area and its long-term residents. who she was and what she could do His solo exhibition was the was exactly what she needed. She built crowning achievement of the lasting friendships and connections residency, and while he found it during her time in the manse studio a frightening prospect – he was in Redfern, met some truly special concerned that others would not people and gained a solid base from enjoy looking at his art as much which to expand her experience. as he enjoyed making it – the Starting life anew is a uniquely outcome was most reassuring. challenging task that few people Alex chose the title, A Year in the can truly relate to, and Jovana Manse, for his exhibition as he thought feels lucky to have found herself it appropriate to the mix of different in the right company. It also gave ideas and experiences he had had her an opportunity, she adds, to be throughout his year’s residency. He there for other people. She is still felt that his work had no central theme involved in the Redfern community but Jovana thought differently. As she through art classes and other events says, Alex’s “eye for the world around and she sees this community as him and critique of his subjects is her true Australian home. something precious, as is his bravery Alex feels that the program has in speaking about unpopular subjects”. given him the opportunity to engage After talking with Alex about his in a range of artistic experiences. ideas and motivation she selected and Throughout 2015 he participated presented the artworks with the aim in and taught community-based art of creating a coherent narrative and 12 The Review February ’16

and stunt making), arrow attacks, force. With dancers lyrically evoking sand storm. He performed gripping self-cauterising a neck wound with his words they created delicate mime movements with an admirable The Reviews gunpowder, a broken ankle, extended marriage of poetry and dance. thrust and precision. This was submersion in freezing water, a night Soul singer Ngaire Pigram sang supported by inspired stage design Theatre Review for her, he says, “I’m too shy”. inside a dead horse and starvation Indigenous and non-Indigenous with billowing smoke illuminated by Catherine Skipper To an extent, the characters seem amongst other life-threatening songs, dressed in a lavishly derelict by a golden light, and captivating like escapees from an Agatha Christie adventures. corset of blue recycled plastic bags. music of Eric Avery playing the country house crime novel, with an Look past the pretentious Unfortunately the songs were not violin accompanied with discordant often too tentative stage presence ponderings on life, God and fully coherent with the rest of the distorted feedback noises blaring. and overly histrionic outbursts or everything else and admire performance and confused the flow. The finale was exceptional with unconvincing enthusiasms. Yet, their The Revenant for its style, brutality The choreography was visceral the dancers being saturated by performances somehow fit the more and beauty, and DiCaprio and Tom and almost desperate, the dancers the highly anticipated rain that brutal concerns of the play. While Hardy (the target of Glass’s revenge) emoting as much with their bodies finally “cut the sky” brought on they dither, Mr Chakravatty plots. for being as convincingly rugged and as their faces. A stand-out dance by their “singing the rain”. Last Dance at Dum Dum In a scheme that has resonance for as brutal as their environment. was the injured kangaroo, evoked Written by Ayub Khan-Din the present day, he reclaims the Alas though, at the end of the day, by Josh Mu, who struggles against a »»[email protected] Directed by Lenore Robertson bungalow’s precious garden as a The Revenant, and for that matter Riverside Theatre (Lennox) sacred site of Lord Krishna, who the other Oscars nominee Mad Max: January 21-24, 2016 once stubbed his toe on a rock in Fury Road, is an empty, violent and the vicinity. He overreaches himself, fairly pointless film. Khan-din’s play focuses on an however, and he is caught up in mob And don’t get me started on how isolated Anglo-Indian community violence, which he and his supporters white DiCaprio is! household in the Dum Dum district originally incited themselves, and has Rating: Three-and-a-half white lies. of 1980s Calcutta, struggling to to seek a very temporary refuge with survive changes that have left them his frightened but altruistic tenants. »»[email protected] displaced culturally, feeling disowned While there is no solution by the British and despised by offered to the problem of cultural Indians. The impoverished and aging displacement within a group’s own Dance Review residents “holed up” in a decaying homeland, Last Dance at Dum by Tess Ridgway bungalow represent a currently Dum does highlight the failure dwindling minority of mixed British of both isolation and withdrawal and Indian ancestry, whose native and of oppression and persecution language is English, and who under to achieve a productive national Ken and Lisa with their Street Library Photo: Rachael Miles the Raj held lesser administrative future. Nautanki Theatre does a a posts. After Independence (1947) great service to our community in many of this distinct population presenting a play that raises issues were either absorbed into local which we, and many communities Take a book, give a book… communities or sought a new worldwide, are not addressing Cut the Sky life in countries like Australia. successfully. Congratulations to the Rachael Miles her library. I didn’t get around to Sydney Festival The play opens with a distraught well-rehearsed production team doing that until today. We really did Sydney Opera House Muriel Marsh (Ann Geenen) trying on a smooth running first night.. HAVE you noticed any Street create a community with diverse January 14-17, 2016 to throw objects over the rusting Libraries popping up in your skills and interests and talents, and it garden wall at strident revellers next »»[email protected] suburb? Ken and Lisa were amongst was a fantastic experience to be part door. Introduced very soon is the Cut the Sky is a dance theatre the first customers of GoGet, the of that, and see things evolving that bungalow’s landlord and Hindu performance set in a future dystopian car-sharing company that is now otherwise wouldn’t have happened.” fundamentalist Mr Chakravatty Film Review desert. Cast adrift this land greedily ubiquitous, and so for them the Ken: “I think it’s also important (Dixit Thakkar), who pretends offence by Lindsay Cohen sucked dry of its minerals, our six foray into extending that idea of for people who maybe haven’t had at Muriel’s behaviour, although dancers and performers are an sharing into the literary space an opportunity to do work like it seems the noise is very much a unlikely grouping: an Indigenous was not much of a stretch. this – creating something out of deliberate provocation. The little miner and non-Indigenous miner, wood – when they wouldn’t normally community is in arrears of rent, and a geologist, a sex worker and a What drew you to the have access to these tools. If there’s it is apparent from Chakravatty’s displaced traditional owner. Street Library idea? only one mentor, then they’re only unctuous manner that he despises Directed artfully by Rachel Swain, Nic Lowe (one of the GoGet seeing one way of doing things. But his tenants and intends to evict the Marrugeku company explores founders, and the driving force in a workshop, you see that there them. The audience understands the issues of climate change through behind the Street Library movement) are many ways of designing the well enough that the residents an Indigenous lens, layering song, suggested that Ken act as a mentor at libraries, and solving problems such The Revenant are living on borrowed time, and poetry, audio visuals, as well as the first Street Library Maker Day. as how to make it weatherproof, Director: Alejandro González Iñárritu money, while they willfully perhaps, modern and Indigenous dance to a Ken has a reputation for designing how to get the door to latch, etc.” Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, or helplessly, devote their energies riotous effect. Choreographers, Dalisa and building things, and very Tom Hardy, Will Poulter Have you seen any to holding a dance. Nostalgically, Pigram and Serge Aimé Coulibaly, importantly, ensured that everyone Genre: Survivor: Academy interactions between the Muriel recalls watching such a serenely blend modern lyrical dance went home with all of their fingers Awards telecast neighbours over the books? dance as a child: “It was magical.” with traditional Aboriginal forms. and toes attached. “There would be All of the inhabitants of the This was an effortlessly cross-art people coming along who might Ken: “I was up a ladder recently bungalow are caught up in the used- The Revenant claims to be inspired form performance with poet Edwin not know how to use a table saw, and a family came past with a to-bes and might-have-beens. Muriel, by “true events” but that’s only as Lee Mulligan reciting his poems, and Nic thought it was important to couple of little kids. They saw the now suffering from a brain tumour appropriate as DC Comics claiming singer Ngaire Pigram singing Nick have an expert on hand,” Ken said. sign (Street Library. Take a book. and subject to fits of uncontrollable their Superman was inspired by Cave, Buffalo Springfield and For Lisa, an acclaimed artist, Give a book. Whatever. Enjoy.) and rage, remembers that she could Nietzsche’s concept of the same Edwin Lee Mulligan (in language), the attraction was more about the the older one said, ‘This means that have been an actress. Her husband name. Every film, book, thought as well as visuals of the Kimberley content rather than the box. “The you can swap stuff ’. So they were Bertie (Marty O’Neil) recalls her as and action is inspired by something. desert undercut with sobering film idea of the Street Library really exploring it on their own level.” she was before her illness. Mr Jones Film ideas don’t spring from nowhere; of post-cyclone destruction. appealed to me, the idea of making Lisa: “Having a Street Library (Michael Mouyat) remembers his the idea has to come from someone The end result is a fractured books more accessible, particularly outside your house is like having wife and is deeply attached to the or something. though flowing cross-medium to young people. With the demise a sign that you are connected to very orderly garden she planned with The reality that “inspired” The spectacle; a harrowing yet ultimately of many spaces in institutions now something and the more there are lawn and cane furniture and which Revenant is that Hugh Glass, an hopeful look at the degradation for books, and the fact that many around the place the more connected forms the decorous stage set. Daphne 1820s fur trader, survived a bear attack of the environment from a books are now electronic, a lot we all feel. I’m hopeful that there (Cristina Barbara) remembers and was left for dead by his fellow fur uniquely Aboriginal perspective. of books are turned into landfill. might even be a social dimension to her French lover who deserted traders but survived and ultimately Marrugeku is an inter-cultural And yet we value books, but we it. There might be literary walks, a her and Violet (Suparna Malick) caught up with his team and forgave and multi-disciplinary company just don’t have the infrastructure, weekend trail, perhaps with cups of obsessively and comically collects them. Alejandro González Iñárritu that works with the Indigenous apart from mainstream libraries, tea along the way. Or maybe we could images of a colonial administration turned this into a snow-swept and community of Broome consulting to have them more in our lives.” even use the libraries as a basis for a she revered. Lydia (Penny Day), “a freezing Bear Grylls survival-style with elders and local leaders to book club. These are little treasures real Englishwoman” with a double- epic of revenge against the fur traders present an Indigenous perspective. Why do you think a and people will discover them.” barrelled surname who joins the who killed his son (in the film) and Edwin lee Mulligan, a visual artist workshop is important? household, remembers the India of tried to kill him. and poet, brought the Indigenous Lisa: “When I started painting A Street Library workshop was held her childhood, and the house help, The Hugh Glass of The Revenant connection to land alive with his the streaks of white on my Street on January 31 for people wanting Elliot (Neel Banerjee), remembers his variety (Leonardo DiCaprio) is poetry. His sparse yet poignant verse Library, that inspired a group of to become their neighbourhood’s successful impersonation of Marilyn more of a Tarrantino and TV tells of how the natural gas, coveted girls over in another corner to give Street Librarian at &Company Monroe. In fact the funniest moment version Daniel Boone super hero by mining companies is embodied in that a go, which they did, in their – Maker Space in Marrickville. belongs to him as, after describing than anything resembling reality. his country as a woman who when own way. And conversely, there was Visit www.streetlibrary.org.au for his raunchy performances to Lydia He survives the bear attack (a great disturbed from her resting place in a woman who brought in a stencil information and other activities when she asks him to perform piece of cinematic special-effects the ground becomes a menacing set, and was using that to decorate in coming months. The Review February ’16 13 Lighting the subject Books

SSH alive!

THROUGHOUT the summer SSH the National Art School at Darlinghurst presents Luminous Breaking Bread World: Contemporary Art from Breaking Bread is a the Wesfarmers Collection. collaboration between the City of Sydney’s Redfern Community Free to the public, Luminous World Centre, People Just Like Us presents a unique opportunity for and Waverley Council. The audiences to engage with a collection three-day program aims to bring of extraordinary works by some of people together from different Australia and New Zealand’s most backgrounds who would normally respected artists. not cross paths and let them Luminous World brings together a share stories and experiences. selection of contemporary paintings, The theme of the event will focus objects and photographs from on people who have experienced the Wesfarmers Collection in a displacement and those who have conversation about light. Where migrated across international it falls, how it behaves, what it borders. It will be held at the reveals – the play of light, presence Redfern Community Centre, and absence, intensity, quality – 29-53 Hugo St, Redfern. interrogations, illuminations. The exhibition includes works Thursday March 10: 6pm to by 50 leading artists, including 8pm – Forum on Displacement. Brook Andrew, Paddy Bedford, This will be a panel discussion Brian Blanchflower, Timothy Cook, with representatives from the

Dale Frank, Rosalie Gascoigne, Bill “Untitled” (cropped) from Paris Opera Project Image: Bill Henson Aboriginal community, refugees, Henson, Susan Norrie, Elizabeth LGBTI and post-war Jewish Nyumi, Fiona Pardington, Michael immigrants, led by journalist Jeff Riley, David Stephenson, Judy introduction by curator Helen Carroll, Luminous World Darlinghurst McMullen as MC. Watson and Nyapanyapa Yunupingu. “Reflections,” a text by artist Bill Contemporary Art from the Until Saturday February 27, 2016 Friday March 11: 11am to 3pm The exhibition is accompanied by Henson, “Harmonies” by composer Wesfarmers Collection Monday-Saturday 11am-5pm – Living Library appearances and a 184-page catalogue featuring large- Richard Mills, and “Echoes,” poetry National Art School Gallery Phone 9339 8686 breadmaking workshop. format colour plates of artworks, an by John Kinsella. National Art School, Forbes Street, [email protected] Saturday March 12: 11am to 2pm – Living Library appearances

Living Library Major works at Carriageworks – The Living Library program celebrates diversity, encourages understanding and respect, contemporary art, everyday life breaks down barriers, informs and inspires members of the community. SSH “Living Books” are real people who will share their stories to ACCLAIMED Ghanaian small groups at Breaking Bread. artist El Anatsui is presenting We are keen to ensure the Living his first major exhibition in Book stories represent different Australia at Carriageworks cultures, religions, beliefs, as part of Sydney Festival. ideologies and how community members have overcome Presented from January 7 until challenges. Through these March 6, 2016, El Anatsui: Five interesting and insightful talks, Decades includes more than 30 members of the general public works from the 1970s to the current have the chance to learn from day, including ceramics, drawings, other people with different life sculptures and woodcarvings, experiences and ask the questions alongside the intricate and they may have always wanted expansive, large-scale installations to ask. for which Anatsui is best known. The project represents the How to become a volunteer first Schwartz Carriageworks Living Book presenter project following the recent gift Please direct any queries to to Carriageworks of $500,000 [email protected] by Anna Schwartz, director “Stressed World,” 2012 Image: El Anatsui or [email protected] and founder of Anna Schwartz Gallery, to develop a new five-year series of major international and exhibition continues our annual series colonialism and migration particular the floor the objects unfurl, expansive Australian visual arts projects. presenting the major installations to the continent. The shimmering rather than confined, they suggest the Born in 1944 in Anyako, Ghana, by the most exciting international palette of these labels and evocative contours of landscape, cartography, Anatsui lives and works in Nsukka, visual artists working today.” brand names including Dark Sailor, and the language of abstract painting. Nigeria, and is recognised as one of Five Decades demonstrates Anatsui’s King Solomon, 007, Chairman and Five Decades probes the histories the world’s leading contemporary ingenuity in working with repurposed Makossa also added a new kind of of colonial and post-colonial Africa artists, having been awarded the materials including wood, aluminium graphic element to Anatsui’s work. alongside themes of consumption, esteemed Gold Lion award at the printing plates, tin boxes and liquor Many of Anatsui’s early ceramics, exchange and renewal and the 2015 Venice Biennale. Anatsui’s bottle tops. In 1998 the chance prints and sculptures incorporate limitless beauty found in the work combines the history and discovery of a garbage bag of Nigerian West African adinkra symbols within everyday. Anatsui’s art presents a trajectory of abstract art with the local alcohol bottle tops presented him their surfaces. Anatsui’s adaptions coming together of cultures, artistic vernacular of Ghana and Nigeria. with a new material with which he of the rich visual culture of Africa traditions and contemporary life. Lisa Havilah, Director of could produce an extraordinary range reaffirm that art is never stagnant nor Carriageworks, said: “El Anatsui: Five of effects. Flattened, folded and bound determined, rather it is part of the El Anatsui: Five Decades Decades is an ambitious project and together with copper wire, the labels changing rhythm of contemporary Carriageworks, Redfern Until March 6, 2016 reflects Carriageworks’ commitment from whiskey, wine, rum, gin, brandy, life. While many of his later works Resident of Annie Green Court in Redfern, to presenting the most ambitious vodka and schnapps – all produced are monumental in scale, they are also The exhibition is free to the Tom Cernik, with one of 72 quilts made by the public and open from 10am Piecemakers group and presented to residents contemporary art from around in West Africa – reflected the stories handmade, shaped by human touch just prior to Christmas. Photo: Daphne Massie the world in Australia. This major of cultural exchange, consumption, and individuality. From the walls to until 6pm every day. 14 The Review February ’16 Singing, South Sydney Puzzle dancing, by David Angell spreading the love Problem November's puzzle Could a person be so unlucky From ONE, TWO, THREE, Live Music Review that they were born on Friday FOUR, FIVE, SIX, SEVEN, EIGHT, NINE, TEN write down by Charlotte Tai the 13th and also had their 13th a series of words in such a birthday on Friday the 13th? way that (i) no word is used more than once; (ii) no two a MTWTFSS consecutive words share 1 2 3 4 a letter; (iii) the total of the

5 6 7 8 9 10 11 numbers you have written is as large as possible. Adam Lambert 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 For example, you could write Enmore Theatre SEVEN, FOUR, EIGHT giving a January 30, 2016 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 total of 19, but this is nowhere 24 25 26 27 28 29 near the largest possible. As part of his Original High Tour, Adam Lambert absolutely Don't miss... FIRST CORRECT ENTRY WINS rocked the stage of Newtown’s hip A PRIZE. November's solution Enmore Theatre. As an admirer of his On the Sydney indie music scene Brendon Send to South Sydney Puzzle, music and art since my adolescence, NINE, TWO, SEVEN, FOUR, TEN, PO Box 3288, it was a sheer delight to finally Moon is known for a unique take on new-wave SIX, THREE (or the same in the REDFERN NSW 2016. reverse order) gives a total of 41. hear him live and even meet him folk – ambient and lush acoustic instrumentation, backstage as part of a VIP package. I was truly surprised looking blended with wondrous vocals. at the diversity of his fans, from young colourful tweens, to Having performed up and down the East beautifully dressed drag queens Coast, he is gearing up to do it all again, in and the middle-aged and elderly. The creative staging was superb release of his latest single, “Wandering Boy”. Wordplays with backdrops reflecting rock Moon describes the song as “the story of a boy Merry Christmas, 2015 by a better-quality and New Age spiritual influences, human being Often our opinion knockout kaleidoscopic lights and who imagines wandering in the woods on a who buys Select Brand. of others is revealed mystical smoke effects. His band was search for whatever life has to offer”. The track through our inattention awesome and his back-up vocalists evinces warm electric tones from guitar and – Poet’s name withheld were, to everyone’s delight, also to small details totally stellar back-up dancers. bass, and characteristically smooth vocals. like the Home Brand Watching everything unfold, it With catchy ooo’s and harmony-laden bread and sausages Up there was great to see such a sophisticated the Hon Brad Hazzard, MP, is a silver lining performer ply his craft. The theatrical hooks this is definitely one to listen to! thought suitable the stars above are twist to the show served as a marker of to provide for tenants never lying Adam’s musical theatre background. Brendon will be launching the “Wandering sometimes when I am crying Melanie Martinez was a sensational of public housing Boy” single with a series of shows on I look above opening act. Her quirky style is a at a barbecue and the angels flying worthy match for Adam’s. With a the East Coast throughout March. held to announce mixture of doll-like femininity and the destruction – Adrian Spry passionate swearing in her lyrics, www.facebook.com/brendonmoonofficial of their loved homes, Melanie mesmerised, accompanied by their lively community, two band members with teddy-bear www.brendonmoon.bandcamp.com Our house is holy to be replaced, more blessed than a citadel beanies and bright patterned tops. www.soundcloud.com/brendonmoon more holy than a tower Artists like her represent a children’s he announced … made of stone aesthetic for grown-ups that seems with a better-quality Holy is our Home to be taking the world by storm. environment Ultimately, I’ll recall Adam’s frequented, no doubt – Adrian Spry touching comment after singing his lovely rendition of “Mad World”: “… the show tonight is a little bit evil in this world. But you know what that love around … and sometimes of a journey … that last part of the …? It’s up to each and every one of the best way to sort all that shit out WORDPLAY – CREATIVE WRITING GROUP CLUB REDFERN, show, that was all my anger, I got it us to find some love and light within is to ask the right questions.”. 2/159 REDFERN ST – February 3 & 17. out. You know the world we’re living ourselves. ’Cause the only way we’re in today can be scary. There’s a lot of gonna combat that evil is by spreading »»[email protected] Contact Yvonne on 0415 226 854. All welcome.

Tag your Instagram pics #sshphotos and we will include 5 of SSH Instagram Gallery the best photos, from all suburbs in South Sydney, here each SELECTED BY CLAIRE MAHJOUB month. See all photos online: southsydneyherald.com.au

The Rocks Darlington Glebe Alexandria Alexandria @mertonkidd @cm_pics @vintonn @_craftybird @es_tr February 2016 COMMUNITY NOTICES 15

Uniting Churches ADVERTISE WITH THE SSH 65K 4 65 Roses Walkathon is an annual endurance event held to raise Community connections, competitive rates. Phone Duncan funds for the fight against Cystic Fibrosis, and we’re thrilled to invite Women’s you to this year’s event on Saturday the 27th of February. on 0402 525 061 or email [email protected] Reconciliation The iconic walk takes place around Sydney’s Iron Cove Bay at Leichardt, and is open to friends, families, thrill-seekers and just Network about anyone looking for a challenge. Meetings are held on SATURDAY ART CLASS But don’t let the 65km course scare you off. You can walk as many 7km laps as you want. We’ve also organised a range of entertainment the 4th Thursday of South Sydney Uniting Church for those looking to take it easy, including face painting for the kids the month. South Sydney Uniting Church (56a Raglan St, Waterloo) and performances from Glenn Whitehall & Katie Carr (previously on The Voice). 10AM-12PM at the 56a Raglan St, Waterloo 12-4pm February 13 & 27 Redfern Community Worship (Eucharist) 10am Sunday All proceeds go towards supporting the Cystic Fibrosis community in Centre. More information NSW and the Children's Hospital at Westmead. Evening Prayers 6pm phone 0438 719 470. Hugo Street Redfern. (2nd Sunday of the month) www.blowcfaway.org.au/event/65kroses2016 Rev. Andrew Collis 0438 719 470 10am cuppa followed by www.southsydneyuniting.org.au meeting till 12 noon.

The Sacred Lounge All materials provided. Previous & new participants welcome. VOLUNTEERS’ NEWS Cnr St Johns Rd & Gold coin donation. Colbourne Ave, Glebe Photo: Andrew Collis PAT CLARKE Worship 7pm Sunday Welcome to our first issue for 2016, designated by the ‘Colbourne Ave’ intimate UN this year as the International Year of Pulses. candlelit concerts 8pm Thursday Office 9518 9413 Pulse Australia will highlight the importance of legumes in www.sacredlounge.org.au terms of nutrition, sustainable food production and crop BABANA rotations. Time to cook and love all those dried beans and ABORIGINAL peas as high quality plant-based proteins. MEN’S GROUP Leichhardt Uniting Church DON’T DITCH IT 3 Wetherill St, Leichhardt Thank you and farewell to Vanessa Cartwright Babana Shed (near Norton St, free parking RE-GIFT IT Vanessa has been a volunteer writer and editor of SSH for open Mon-Fri behind church) several years, and her many excellent contributions have (Cnr St Johns Rd & Worship 10am & 6.30pm Sunday been greatly appreciated. Vanessa has started full-time work Colbourne Ave, Glebe) Rev. Dr John Hirt 0408 238 117 and resigned from her online editor position. We all wish her www.leichhardtuniting.org.au Contact: Mark Spinks good luck and every success. 0411 282 917 Australia’s Local Hero 2016 Mustard Seed Uniting Church Congratulations to Dr Catherine Keenan, who was Cnr Quarry St & Bulwara Rd, WERE YOU GIVEN A CHRISTMAS GIFT THAT ISN’T QUITE YOU? Ultimo MAYBE YOU STRUCK IT LUCKY WITH THE PERFECT GIFT BUT appointed Australia’s Local Hero this year for her work as Worship 9.30am Sunday HAVE NOWHERE TO PUT IT? a Youth Educator at the Sydney Story Factory in Redfern. You can get further information on this terrific project at Waterloo Rev. David Gore DON’T DITCH YOUR UNWANTED CLOTHES, ACCESSORIES OR 0449 875 065 HOMEWARES. RE-GIFT THEM TO A RED CROSS SHOP. www.sydneystoryfactory.org.au Recycling mustardseed.unitingchurch.org.au ASK FOR A LOYALTY CARD WHEN YOU DONATE ACROSS THE Chinese New Year Festival February 6-21 Workshop COUNTER AND GET A 25% DISCOUNT AFTER 10 DONATIONS. Kung Hei Fat Choy! Starting on February 6 and curated Workshop and market open Newtown Mission RED CROSS SHOPS CANNOT ACCEPT DONATIONS OF ELECTRICAL ITEMS, by Claudia Chan Shaw, Lunar Lanterns will trail across Fridays 9am-12pm. 280 King St Newtown LARGE FURNITURE OR MATTRESSES. the City and Harbour, each one depicting an animal in the Worship 9.30am & 6pm Sunday Turunga Flats, 1 Phillip St, Chinese zodiac calendar. Painting the Town Red in this Rev. Graeme Tutt GO TO REDCROSS.ORG.AU/DONTDITCHIT Waterloo (lower car park). OR CALL 1800 811 700 TO LOCATE YOUR NEAREST lucky colour will highlight buildings around Circular Quay, 9519 9000 Affordable furniture and www.newtownmission.org.au RED CROSS SHOP. DON'T DITCH IT – RE-GIFT IT! the Opera House, Sydney Town Hall etc (8pm till midnight February 6-8). The AnnualDragon Boat Races will be held household goods. at Darling Harbour on Saturday and Sunday, February 20 Donations gladly received Paddington Uniting Church and 21. (no white goods or 395 Oxford St, Paddington Worship 10.30am & February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and electrical apps). 7.30pm Sunday Teal Ribbon Day is February 24, 2016. Ribbons can be Volunteers welcome – Rev. Ben Gilmour purchased from Chemmart Pharmacies and Black Pepper phone Naomi on Office 9331 2646 Stores. Donations in support of women and families, 0407 576 098. www.paddingtonuca.org.au and research into this disease, for which there is no early detection test, can be made at www.ovariancancer.net.au Pitt Street Uniting Church Anniversary of the National Apology to the Stolen 264 Pitt St, Sydney Worship 10am Sunday Generations is Saturday, February 13. Details are available Rev. Dr Margaret Mayman at www.healingfoundation.org.au Office 9267 3614 Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras 2016. www.pittstreetuniting.org.au February 19 to March 5. What a Festival program this year’s will be, culminating with the annual Parade on March 5. Full Wayside Chapel details at www.mardigras.org.au 29 Hughes St, Potts Point REDWatch Until next time. Meetings first Thursday Worship 10am Sunday of the month at The Factory Rev. Graham Long Pat Clarke & Ross Smith Community Centrte. Office 9581 9100 Phone Geoffrey Turnbull [email protected] www.thewaysidechapel.com (02) 8004 1490. Email [email protected]

YOUR LOCAL MEMBERS

Tanya Plibersek MP Malcolm Turnbull MP Jamie Parker MP Ron Hoenig MP Alex Greenwich MP Jenny Leong MP Federal Member for Sydney Federal Member for Wentworth State Member for Balmain State Member for Heffron State Member for Sydney State Member for Newtown 150 Broadway, Broadway Ground Floor, 287-289 New South 112a Glebe Point Rd, Glebe Shop 117, 747 Botany Rd, Rosebery 58 Oxford St, Paddington 383 King St, Newtown NSW 2007 Head Rd, Edgecliff, NSW 2027 NSW 2037 NSW 2018 NSW 2021 NSW 2042 T: 02 9379 0700 T: 02 9327 3988 T: 02 9660 7586 T: 02 9699 8166 T: 02 9360 3053 T: 02 9517 2800 F: 02 9379 0701 F: 02 9327 2533 F: 02 9660 6112 F: 02 9699 8222 F: 02 9331 6963 F: 02 9230 3352 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 16 SPORT & FITNESS February 2016 Wheels on fire Local champion to compete in downhill international

LOUISA DYCE with new riders, community and events, locally and around the world. THE Australia Skateboard Racing I still skate as much as I can, Association (ASRA) is pleased to even with my new full-time job. I announce that the International organise a session with my friends Downhill Federation (IDF) weekly and organise with my partner for the first time is holding its (Rob) some grassroots events for the downhill races here in Australia. local crew here. This year though, Wollongong’s Mount Keira is the finally, after four years of absence, place where it’s all happening, I’m helping my friends from ASRA from February 12 to 14. Book organise a Skateboard World Cup for tickets so you won’t miss the down in Mount Keira, Wollongong, Valentine’s Day excitement. and I’ll definitely be in it racing again, this time for the good times! The three-day festival of speed will see a “freeride” race event on Are you racing in this event? February 12, time qualifications on Yes, I couldn’t miss February 13, then a final race day racing my local hill! (Open Class, Women’s, Juniors, Master and Luge) on February 14. What do you wear as protective We have our own representative gear for downhill racing? Maga B. McWhinnie rolling down the road Photo: Benjamin Westover from South Sydney, the very talented In world events like this, we Maga B. McWhinnie, who kindly took use a custom-made Downhill Where is Mount Keira ranked in the especially because the road is not but it’s the opposite. We are just a the time to answer a few questions. Skateboarding Leather Suit, a world of downhill skateboard racing? all smooth. Last time we had a race very closed community (family) Downhill Skateboard Full Face I mean, is it an easy or tough course? there it was pouring rain, and then it with a passion for an environmental Could you please give us an update Helmet and Sliding Gloves. Mount Keira Road is not a very became unpredictable and slippery. sport and with the aim to live to on what’s been happening for you? technical road because it doesn’t skate another day. We have local Well, after five years of racing Is your board specially need any major breaks for turns, Will we ever see a skateboarding riders representing us around the around the world, I took a break made for racing? but it’s very winding, and in racing race here in South Sydney? world but unfortunately we have from racing last year and became Yes, our boards are a Downhill that’s what makes it challenging Hopefully! At the moment, the no Downhill Skate Parks to train. the Manager of Basement Skate (in Skateboard or a Downhill Longboard, since you can draft and pass by sport is still very unknown for our So yeah, an event or race here in Regent Street, Redfern), Director with the perfect concave to grip taking better lines, and anything local community, and it’s a bit hard South Sydney would be amazing. We of the IDF (International Downhill and get sideways at high speed could happen. It’s a very fun track, and expensive to organise events (lots might need a hill or somewhere steep. Federation) and Director of the WSF (80-90km/h), CNC Laser/Precision it’s not crazy fast as other tracks of paperwork, long processes and We could also do a Border X Skate. S (World Skate Federation), which is Trucks, and big racing wheels to around the world, but fast enough not too much funding for it). And the amazing because it let me contribute hold your grip when you need to to feel at the edge of gripping truth is, sometimes people think we www.skateboardracing.org.au/ to my sport and still spread the stoke and get sideways for pre-drifts. and making it through a corner, are crazy people with a “death wish”, events/asra-mt-kiera-love-in

WATERLOO REDEVELOPMENT ANNOUNCEMENT For Counterpoint Community Services (aka Factory Community Centre) and South Sydney Community Aid to respond and support local FITNESS residents through the process of the forthcoming redevelopment, we need you as local residents and/or stakeholders to share your thoughts FREE about the announcement. TRIAL ? Before the announcement ? What questions do you were you already aware of have about the proposal? a proposal to redevelop the public housing sites? ? How should Government best communicate with you ? What was your initial feeling on this proposal? 7 DAY FREE GYM TRIAL* about the announcement? Includes access to both cardio & ? How do we as your local ? What do you think are the community centres support weights gym, outdoor training pit, potential positive or negative you through this process? aspects of this proposal? 25m pool, basketball court, and ? Do you have any other all gym classes! concerns or ideas you would like to share? * Conditions apply upon signing up. Provide YOUR feedback! Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Phone: 9698 9569 (Factory) or 9319 4703 (SSCA) Visit us: The Factory Community Centre, 67 Raglan Street, Waterloo. South Sydney Community Aid, Alexandria Town Hall, 73 Garden Street, Alexandria. Post on social media! #Waterloo2017 facebook.com/CounterpointCommunityServices facebook.com/SouthSydneyCommunityAid Where excellence happens! NCIE.ORG.AU | 180 GEORGE ST, REDFERN twitter.com/Counterpoint_CS