Trading their way out of poverty The art of resistance  FEATURE — page 10  REVIEW — pages 11-14

NUMBER one hundred and twenty-six june ’14 CIRCULATION 22,000 ALEXANDRIA BEACONSFIELD CHIPPENDALE DARLINGTON ERSKINEVILLE EVELEIGH GLEBE KINGS CROSS NEWTOWN PADDINGTON REDFERN SURRY HILLS WATERLOO WOOLLOOMOOLOO ZETLAND

Lottie Ceissman, Jenny Munro, Terri Bell and Joan Bell on The Block Photo: Lyn Turnbull Pitch for affordable housing on The Block

SSH AHC administration and lack of stream for the construction and ongoing press. The site of the tent embassy on The above the gym. The DA approval was transparency were also cited. support for affordable Aboriginal housing Block, which is 6,500 square metres of finally granted on December 22, 2012, REDFERN: On Monday May 26 a tent on The Block. the total 10,500 square metres owned by and all details are still available on the embassy was established on The “Aboriginal sovereignty is the key AHC General Manager, Lani the AHC in the precinct, is designated for Department’s website at “Pemulwuy Block. Aboriginal protesters and their issue,” one protester said. “We are here Tuitavake, said: “While we are still 62 Aboriginal affordable homes. Mixed Used Development, Redfern”. supporters, including Jenny Munro, for the long term – to stop [CEO Mick talking to the government about funding As outlined in the Development In a climate that sees government Diane Whittaker, Suren Krishnan, Mundine] from selling out our land from options for affordable housing, so much Application, which was on exhibition sell-offs of public housing to fund Lottie Ceissman, and Joan and Terri under us.” of the Aboriginal housing money goes for public comment in Council offices maintenance, the AHC is determined Bell, call for the Aboriginal Housing The protest comes as the AHC pursues to remote communities, overlooking in Redfern and the City, and on the to secure the long-term independence Company (AHC) to build Aboriginal the first stage of its Pemulwuy Project the needs of the urban population.” NSW Department of Planning and and financial security of Pemulwuy. housing on The Block (the parcel of which entails the building of student At the last census 31.7 per cent of the Infrastructure’s website and offices Mick Mundine said: “We have to be able land bounded by Eveleigh, Caroline, housing on the eastern side of Eveleigh NSW Indigenous population lives in for six weeks from mid-January 2012, to look into the eyes of our grandchildren Louis and Vine streets) as the first Street (adjacent to the railway line). The greater Sydney. these homes include 36 three- and and know that we have fought and stage of the Pemulwuy Project. Long- student housing and retail development, The current protest has been reported four-bedroom townhouses, and 26 secured the future of The Block for held grievances with respect to the it is planned, will provide an income with some ambiguities in the mainstream two- and three-bedroom apartments Aboriginal people.” S 2 News June 2014

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.

NEWS [email protected] Phone Lyn 0400 008 338

ADVERTISING Contact – [email protected] Phone Julia on 0402 525 061 Pedestrian congestion has led to State Rail posting two ambulance officers each MAILING ADDRESS: morning and evening on the Redfern Station concourse Photo: Claire Mahjoub PO Box 3288 Redfern NSW 2016

LETTERS Please send letters and emails to: Peak-hour commuter congestion The South Sydney Herald. Bruce Wardley For most of these students, however, Email: [email protected] Supply sender name and suburb. the pedestrian- and traffic-choked Size: 150 words or less. REDFERN: A deep clean and a much Redfern station will remain the main We may edit for legal or other reasons. needed commuter lift have all been gateway to this former top-50 world Barney Gardner Photo: Bruce Wardley given the green light for Redfern ranked university. FOUNDING EDITOR Trevor Davies (25.5.1956—14.6.2011) station, but there’s still no answer “Forget attracting more international from the state government on the big students to Sydney to boost Australia’s Social cleansing – coming safety issue of peak-hour commuter export income,” says Mr Turnbull. congestion. “When they eventually get frustrated with the daily battle at Redfern, they’ll to a suburb near you Community action group REDWatch simply go elsewhere. The problem is, says city commuters heading in one there’s simply nowhere for the students Bruce Wardley be evicted suburb by suburb. It has Managing Editor FEATURES EDITOR direction and Sydney University to go. been coming for a long time. Waterloo Andrew Collis Dorothy McRae-McMahon students heading the other way, plus “The best solution is now 20 years Syasdney h been put on notice, and Surry Hills could be next. converging cyclists and heavy traffic, all old, and that is one exit at the front the eviction of hundreds of public “Housing prices are out of control add up to a disaster waiting to happen. of the station and a second exit at the housing tenants from Millers Point and without a public housing option to “The major issue is university back of the station into Wilson Street.” is seen as the beginning of the end keep inner-city rentals down, private students”, says REDWatch Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian for public housing in the inner city. developers will be able to charge what spokesperson, Geoff Turnbull. was unable to respond to the SSH this they want. Public housing tenants and NEWS EDITOR ONLINE EDITOR Lyn Turnbull Cate Long “State governments of all persuasions month, but Geoff Turnbull is in no doubt The recent annual general meeting people on lower incomes create the have been promising an upgrade at what he’d like to ask the minister. of the Hands Off Glebe group invited diversity, village atmosphere and arts Redfern station since the 1940s, “REDWatch wants to know when Millers Point resident Barney Gardner communities that attract rich people to but it’s always been in the too-hard the new lift will be installed as it to put a human face on the state these inner suburbs in the first place.” basket. Redfern station handles 22,000 doesn’t seem to be in the current government decision to sell 293 Putting a somewhat novel twist commuters a day, and in peak times works program; and the timeframe for Millers Point public housing properties on inner-city social problems, Mr ASSISTANT EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR students spill out from the narrow a complete upgrade of the station.” S to private developers. Doherty says putting all the rich Louisa Dyce Vanessa Cartwright footpath onto busy Lawson Street. Mr Gardner said: “If it can happen people together could lead to more Now the University wants to increase Find out more at REDWatch.org.au at Millers Point it can happen shootings and street brawls. student numbers by 21 per cent,” says (www.redwatch.org.au) and anywhere.” Barney Gardner has lived at Millers Mr Turnbull, “and attract students from LiftRedfern (www.facebook.com/ The well-attended meeting of both Point all his life and claims it is around the world.” LiftRedfern) on Facebook. public housing tenants and private Australia’s oldest suburb. He says homeowners gave its enthusiastic the campaign to save public housing PHOTO EDITOR SUB EDITOR support for the campaign by Millers at Millers Point has been disrupted to Claire Mahjoub Miriam Pepper Point residents to fight the government some extent by the recent changes to decision. the Premier and Minister for Family DISTRIBUTION Government ignored social Glebe group spokesperson, Denis and Community Services, although Ross Smith Doherty, said the Millers Point there is no indication the government [email protected] campaign reminded him of the is about to back off. DESIGNER impact assessments? Robert Young Cowper Street re-development which “A lot of support has come from www.theloop.com.au/rdfy he says was nothing more than social surrounding suburbs who fear they PRINTER Henry Whittaker legislation. cleansing. could be next.” Spotpress Pty Ltd Contrary to these recommendations, “Whole suburbs are at risk,” He wants everyone in the inner city www.spotpress.com MILLERS POINT: The Millers Point NSW Family and Community Services says Mr Doherty. “The Millers to voice their concern about what is Social Impact Assessment (SIA) stated that they would not be specific Point decision has set a precedent. happening at Millers Point by writing REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS commissioned by the government about how funds from divestment Anywhere the government can get a letters and emailing their local, state “We gratefully acknowledge the many presented a list of mitigation principles would be used, that they would not good price is now under threat. and federal politicians. S volunteer contributors and distributors who make this publication possible.” to minimise social impact should the commit to using these funds to replace “They won’t just evict people one Kieran Adair Julie McCrossin government decide to sell public the public housing lost in Millers Point by one,” he says. “Millers Point has The Millers Point campaign can be Adra Anthoney Caitlin McDonald found on Facebook at www.facebook. Alice Appel Isabel McIntosh housing in the area’s heritage precinct. with new public housing within inner shown public housing tenants could Sandra Beeston Christine Morrow The goal of these mitigation principals Sydney and that they could not enable Jack Butler Sarah Mulholland Laura Buzo Lucy Munro was to minimise the negative older residents to retain connections Joe Castley Olivia Nigro social impacts to the Millers Point with their local community. Liesa Clague Michael Page Samuel Clark Victoria Pearson community and the broader social There is a sense in the Millers Point Lindsay Cohen Elaine Pelot-Syron housing system of such a sale. community that the government Todd Dagwell Miriam Pepper Isabella Dinhvu Jesse Peters has ignored the Cred report with Louisa Dyce Ada Qian In October 2012 the Department the decision to sell the Millers Point Georgia Flynn Michael Shreenan Jemima Hall Gai Smith of Housing had commissioned Cred properties. Millers Point resident Misa Han Andrea Srisurapon Community Planning to prepare a Social Patricia Cowora pointed out that this Libby Hogan Rowan Taylor Lyndal Irons Kate Texilake Impact Assessment. is just one in a string of studies that the Julia Jacklin Michael Texilake In gathering information for the community feels have had little positive Brittany Johnson Geoff Turnbull Perry Johnstone Charles Turnbull report, Cred consulted with 152 effect on their treatment. Kelly Lane Marg Vazey residents and balanced their concerns The Auditor-General’s report, Ada Lee Chelsea Wallis Qinling Li Angelique Watkins with the substantial budget concerns “Making the best use of public housing”, Rebecca LeMay Vanessa Watson of Housing NSW. Through their was published in July 2013 and warned Cate Long Peter Whitehead Claire Mahjoub Henry Whittaker involvement with the SIA study there that if short-sighted practices do not norrie mAy-welby Kate Williamson was a sense in the community that their change the quality and quantity of concerns would be addressed. public housing will continue to decline. DISTRIBUTORS This feeling of involvement came to In November 2013, the Select Georgina Abraham Rohan MacDonald an abrupt end when the Cred Social Committee on Social, Public, and John Berry norrie mAy-welby Eleanor Bousted Marry Ellen McCue Impact Assessment was released on Affordable Housing was established to Gabrielle Brine Barrie McMahon March 19, 2014, the same day that inquire into and report on demand for Sam Choy Mark McPherson Millers Point residents were notified, social, public and affordable housing in Michael Condon Dorothy McRae-McMahon Yvonne Cowell Reece Meredith by a hand-delivered letter, that all the NSW. The Millers Point Public Housing Alice Crawford Jane Morro social housing in Millers Point would Tenants Group made their submission Ron Crowley Margaret Neale Sue Dahl Jim Patsouris be sold. to the committee in February 2014, just Peter Dodds Pepsee The government’s response to the SIA a month before they were blindsided by Food Distribution Network David Polkington Melissa Gibson Heather Robinson recommendations, released after the eviction letters. The Select Committee Perry Johnstone Lincoln Sharp Anne Jordan sale announcement to remove public report is not even scheduled to be Colin Sharp Desley Haas housing tenants totally, has left the released until September 2014. Gabriel Haslam Ross Smith Rod Haslam Adrian Spry Millers Point community feeling that The purpose of SIAs is to ensure Tony Hogan Tony Steele their concerns were not recognised that the social impacts of development Jennifer Jungheim Lani Tuitavake Anthony Kable Alexander Turnbull in the government’s decision-making are taken into account. The current Susan Kable Margaret Vazey process. This has worrying implications government’s treatment of these reports Jennifer Laffan Brian Vazey John Lanzky Rosie Wagstaff for how the current government may sets a dangerous precedent for what Peter Lonergan Naomi Ward Kyran Lynch Peter Whitehead treat the concerns of vulnerable future planning legislation might Julie McCrossin Alex Warner stakeholders in future planning look like. S June 2014 News 3

strong winds, make things much The youth of today worse.” Seimila expressed her hope that the youth in Australia might take action on climate change. “They will be the leaders of tomorrow,” she said. Seimila also mentioned the need for funding education programs in her country – to help young people learn knowledge and skills for adaptation and innovation. “We are grateful for the hospitality we’ve received in Australia. Groups like the Australian Youth Climate Coalition are leading by example,” Seimila said. On meeting with politicians at parliament house in Canberra, Maina said: “We had a good chance to talk to the opposition members, with our hopes that the more people we share our stories with, the more they will spread. They seemed to be very interested in listening to our stories and our cries. To my great disappointment, we were not able to meet with Tony Abbott’s ministers. They were busy with other commitments. Delegates urge action on climate change “Our hopes lie heavily on the Australian government and the Tuvaluan delegates Seimila and Maina in Waterloo Photo: Andrew Collis Australian people. We have always considered Australia as our big Andrew Collis take heed of their moral obligations being destroyed by climate change. people and landmass of 27 square brother, our neighbouring country with respect to greenhouse gas Maina and Seimila, who also visited kilometres. The highest point on the to stand up for us. Therefore, we are Maina Talia and Seimila P. Filioma emissions and the impact on the South Sydney Uniting Church in island is less than four metres above here to appeal to our big brother are two of a group of four young vulnerable nations. The Tuvalu Climate Waterloo, want Australia to rethink sea level. Rainwater harvesting is the to take the lead in climate change leaders from Tuvalu and Kiribati Action Network (TuCAN) chose Maina its climate change policy. main source of fresh water. actions, by telling other industrialised who visited Australia in late May and and Seimila to take part in the two- “We are the most vulnerable of “Our people continue to experience countries that strong action to reduce early June as part of a leadership week program aimed at providing the most vulnerable countries,” the dramatic effects of climate change greenhouse gases is needed now.” training program organised by the young leaders with opportunities Maina said. “Since we don’t have any on our islands,” Maina said. “Our Pacific Calling Partnership (PCP), an to improve their knowledge and mountains or rivers, for us to adapt traditional root crops, such as pulaka Youth of today, a regular article initiative of the Edmund Rice Centre. skills and develop their experience is very difficult. It is a burden to the and taro, are gradually dying because on local youth and related issues, is kindly sponsored by and confidence in climate change people of Tuvalu as to how they can of seawater intrusion and frequent Appetite Cafe Since it began in 2006 the PCP advocacy. adapt. Now when it comes to high droughts. Fish poisoning has become Appetite Cafe has sought opportunities for islander Traditional ways of life on Tuvalu tide you can see the tide everywhere.” a major issue, due to increased APPETITE cafe : redfern 82 Regent St, Redfern ood communities to be heard so that and Kiribati, the most vulnerable of Tuvalu is a small island nation, temperature and acidification of + eople Tel 9699 4069 industrialised nations might listen and the low-lying Pacific island atolls, are with a population of around 11,000 seawater. King tides, combined with

Many members of our local community will be aware of the debate about university funding in response to the federal government budget. This is a major issue for us all, because the government’s proposed major changes to higher education funding will have significant implications for both universities and the community. The planned full deregulation of undergraduate student fees means that government funding for each Commonwealth-supported student will be cut by an average of 20 percent, and universities will be free to decide their own fees for undergraduate courses, and enrol as many students as they would like. In return, they will have to commit one dollar in every five of the fee increases to a new scholarship fund to support disadvantaged students. While the current HELP loan scheme Traffic Jam is an organisation with the will continue, the government has also proposed reducing the income level at which students must start to repay their loans, changing when they must start to make repayments, and adjusting the basis for calculating interest on their loans. intention of ending human trafficking While the budget papers provided few details about how the government intends these proposals to work in practice, and we can expect robust debate of the proposals in the federal Senate, and slavery in the world by 2020. in their current form they present significant challenges to the University of Sydney. In short, Our initial project is a unique website where vulnerable individuals we will receive less federal government funding for our teaching. moving to Australia can register their details in the knowledge Regardless of the final form of these proposals, the University is committed to providing a world- that our committed team will check on them to ensure they are class education to all of its students. If we are to honour this commitment, we will need to find ways to make up the funding shortfalls. This must include the possibility of greater contributions safe, well and here for their intended purpose. to the cost of their education from students who can afford to make them. We are officially launching the website and invite you to join us. Furthermore, I believe that a University of Sydney education should be attainable for the most promising students, whatever their social or cultural background. While the government's proposed scholarship regime is a partial response to this imperative, I remain concerned about the impact of any changes on low-income and, indeed, middle-income families. I am also Redfern Town Hall, 73 Pitt St, Redfern concerned about the disproportionate impact on some of our academic disciplines: for example 3pm to 5.30pm our initial modelling shows that we would face cuts of more than $5000 per student per year in engineering, environmental sciences, communications, and science courses.v Sunday June 15, 2014 Cost: $25 This is a watershed moment in Australian higher education policy, and one that will affect many people in our local community. I would like to assure you that as we work through our response to the funding environment, we will not forget our commitment to educational access and social justice. All proceeds go to Traffic Jam and the money goes a long way due Michael Spence to our operations being entirely staffed by volunteers and the Vice-Chancellor and Principal costs of running the website being very low. Community contact details Security and after hours: 1800 063 487 (free call) 24hrs a day, 7 days a week We hope to see you there to create an atmosphere of freedom, Enquiries: 9114 0523 Email: [email protected] fun and connectedness in this cause. 4 News June 2014 Liquor locks Peter Whitehead

KINGS CROSS: On a recent Saturday night your correspondent defied his Methodist instincts and ventured up the Cross accompanied by his work- experience Lois Lane. The bright lights, burly bouncers, bodacious body-barers, bordellos, boutique bars and booze-barns beckoned …

Around midnight the lights were on but a lot of people were at home or in Darling Harbour, Pyrmont, Double Bay, Bondi or anywhere else supporters of a vibrant late-night scene are not locked Illustration: Ada Qian in (or out) at 1.30am. Traffic entering Kings Cross was not into a tableau from Underbelly: The generation of kids who can’t hold their get patrons in at any time with business not worried about public transport. backed up to Hyde Park. Darlinghurst Golden Mile that is the real deal – John drink should not be his problem. Mr down about 30 per cent according to At half-past one the view from the bar is Road was not congested with revelers Ibrahim flanked by muscled minders. Ibrahim and his menacing minions have his sources. an emptied street. Fast-talking clubbers reeling round queues to venues and At Lois’s prompting I proffer my SSH no time for amateur brawlers. In Kellett Street, Café Roma is concur it’s probably better being sent crowded fast-food joints. On this balmy writer’s card and am rewarded with The demographics of Potts Point and unaffected by lock-ins. The manager, home at three. Six armed, uniformed night Sin City’s time-honoured hive of the immaculately groomed alleged Darlinghurst have shifted. Former hotels Danilo, can let customers come and go police pop in and look about, as they Rest and Recreation was a holiday resort crime czar’s candid opinion that the are now residential towers filled with till he chooses to close the restaurant at do, apparently, two or three times most town way out of season. trial of lockouts is unlikely to go past affluent occupants less likely to frequent 2.30am. A young man exits vomiting. nights. We leave about 2am. George, on the door at Dreamgirls, next year’s state election because it is traditional venues or burgeoning small First time she’s seen that in 18 months Nino’s amplified guitar echoes across has not seen business down so far – 60 too expensive to police and should be bars than complain long and loud about working there, says a waitress. Business the empty granite plaza where Victoria per cent he reckons – in his 28 years state-wide. His business in the Cross them. Potts Point and Kings Cross is down 20 per cent. Street crosses Darlinghurst Road. working here. The weeks after 9/11 was is down 35 to 40 per cent. He wonders Heritage Conservation Society President, Bayswater Road is busy but not He has busked here for years. “Less the only time near as bad. about deals done to boost Star Casino Andrew Woodhouse, is enjoying the boisterous. Bus queues are short. people, less aggression,” he opines. Yes Round in Roslyn Street we stumble takings to make up for Barangaroo. A lunchtime deals from venues keen to Hugo’s is buzzing. These patrons are … there’s less. S

Emily Goldsmith, President, St Vincent de Paul Society Sydney Region Photo: Supplied John Gibson at the ATP Heritage Community Day, May 16 Photo: Geoff Turnbull Vinnies says ‘unfair’ budget Back-tracking to days will hit poor the hardest of steam power SSH In NSW alone, Vinnies has 5,000 members who volunteer to support people in 420 communities Geoff Turnbull of the stories. John Gibson introduced people to T he St Vincent de Paul Society NSW says across the state. Vinnies members include hydraulic water power at Eveleigh with a guided it has grave concerns that people already doctors, teachers, butchers, small business EVELEIGH: Over 400 locals, railway enthusiasts tour of the pump house and stories about Sydney’s experiencing disadvantage will be pushed owners, farmers and self-funded retirees. While and industrial heritage buffs were transported high pressure system that operated lifts, cranes further into poverty by measures included in their backgrounds are varied, the one thing they to a bygone era of steam trains and handmade and presses in the city before electric power. the recent Federal Budget. share in common is a passion for their local machinery at the Heritage Community Days The tour was then handed over to volunteers community. on May 16 and 17 at the Australian Technology from 3801 Ltd who took the tour through some of Work carried out by the National Centre for St Vincent de Paul Society NSW President, Park and the Large Erecting Shop. their carriages and into the Large Erecting Shop Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM) at Ray Reynolds, explains that Vinnies members (LES). This was the first time that any of the Canberra University has been revealing in a are dismayed by the measures in the budget. ATP heritage volunteers made the stories come LES had been opened up to the public since the way the budget papers were not. The research “Our members are not out of touch with alive while Wrought Artworks blacksmiths kept building had been saved and the zoning changed shows that 1.2 million families on low incomes the difficulties that families around the state the atmosphere alive by burning and forging steel to allow it to be also used for educational purposes. will be, on average, around $3,000 a year worse face each and every day. We visit around 600 with traditional tools for awed onlookers in the On the way into the LES the groups were shown off while those on high incomes will hardly be people a day and provide financial and emotional old Blacksmith’s Workshop. the WWI honour board at the LES and were impacted at all. assistance. This places us in a unique position From 1886 until the 1980s, when the Park advised that with the ANZAC Centenary it is In practical terms this means a couple with to know of the heart-wrenching stories of the was still the Eveleigh Railway Yards and one hoped to tell more of the story of the Eveleigh two school-aged children on an income of people we are assisting. Our great fear is that of Australia’s largest industrial complexes, the workers who were among the first to sign up for $60,000 a year will lose over $6,000 each year. these stories are about to get far worse,” says Blacksmith’s Workshop produced equipment, tools the Great War. That’s 10 per cent of their income. A family on Mr Reynolds. and parts for the maintenance and manufacture Local Alexandria resident, Desley Haas, said $200,000 will lose $400 or 0.2 per cent. Vinnies says that if the government is serious of steam locomotives in Australia. the tours were very enjoyable and informative. St Vincent de Paul Society NSW CEO, Michael about the need to share the pain there is a range Two-hour guided tours started in the “By the time we arrived at the locomotives at Perusco, says that this is a deeply unfair budget of options it can consider. For example, abolishing Locomotive Workshop with Mohamad Chami, the Large Erecting Shed, it was perfectly clear that requires the heavy lifting to be done by those negative gearing would save taxpayers $6 billion a trained teacher, providing an overview of the what life would have been like here,” she said. who have the least capacity to do so. a year. These subsidies simply serve to encourage site from Aboriginal times to the present day and “After seeing and imagining how much hard work, “Around one million Australians experiencing speculation in the housing market and drive up covering the rich industrial and labour history with simple tools and huge steam-driven machines, severe disadvantage have missed out on house prices. It is also time that we consider of the site. and how much care and attention to fine detail Australia’s uninterrupted economic growth over the wisdom of the tens of billions of dollars Richard Butcher, an ex-blacksmith on the site, must have gone into creating a locomotive, it is the last 20 years. This budget leaves this group of superannuation tax concessions that over- explained how the Blacksmith Shop worked, and no wonder so much passion and fascination exist of people even further behind,” says Mr Perusco. whelmingly benefit those on higher incomes. S introduced people to the big hammers and some today for the old steam trains.” S June 2014 News 5

in greening Sydney, encouraging excellent design and the protection of our heritage, creating new parks and pools, and improving our main streets and villages.

What were your dreams when you began this work? I’ve always been passionate about making sure everyone in our community has a fair say, not just those with privilege or position. As Lord Mayor I’ve made sure that Tony Abbott’s Budget the City of Sydney works closely with all members of our community. Our plans are driven by the aims of Broken Promises and aspirations of everyone living here. When I was elected, I also Tony Abbott has delivered a budget which makes wanted to make sure that I made the best use of the opportunity. those on lower and middle incomes pay for his I’m proud to look back on 10 years broken promises. In his budget reply speech, and see how much we’ve achieved. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said that this budget If you had a chance to begin again, are there any things is trying to turn “Australia into a place most of us you would do differently? won’t recognise –­ a colder, meaner, narrower place. I’m focused on the challenges Lord Mayor Clover Moore Photo: Supplied we face now. Spending too much time thinking about what could Before the election Tony Abbott promised there have been done differently can sap a lot of time and energy. We’ve just would be “no cuts to education, no cuts to health, Te n years as released a 10-year, $1.94 billion no change to pensions… and no cuts to the ABC infrastructure program that includes plans for new child-care centres, or SBS.” This budget has broken every one of those light rail through our city centre, promises, and the burden is falling hardest on those Lord Mayor community infrastructure for Green Square and a lot more. Making who can afford it least. Pensions will but cut, with An interview with Clover Moore sure all this work gets done will take all my time and effort. a new lower rate of indexation costing pensioners Dorothy McRae-McMahon foray into community activism, and I’ve been fighting for my local What was the most special moment $80 a week by 2024 according to ACOSS. Congratulations on a decade as community ever since. Since then in your time as Lord Mayor? Lord Mayor. Had you always wanted I’ve served as a Councillor at South Seeing new and upgraded parks University students will be paying more for their to be Lord Mayor of Sydney? Sydney Council, as an MP in the NSW and playgrounds opened has always My start in local politics was aimed Parliament, and as Mayor of the City been special to me. Whether it’s studies. A nursing student, who currently pays at a much more local level than being of Sydney for more than 10 years. Pirrama Park in Pyrmont, the all- $18,000 for a degree, will pay anywhere between Mayor. When my husband Peter abilities playground in Sydney Park, and I moved to Redfern many years Were your colleagues critical to the new pool at Prince Alfred Park $22,000 and $40,000 for their degree. A science ago it was a neighbourhood with a the effectiveness of your work or the remaking of Redfern Park and strong local community, however as you took up the position? Oval, these public open spaces are of student, who now pays $34,452, will pay up to services and facilities were poor. Throughout my career I’ve had huge importance to our community. $100,000. A medical degree, now $60,510, is likely I became involved with my local the opportunity to work with community when I tried to have some passionate and dedicated people Do you still have new hopes to rise to almost $180,000. grass put into a local playground. At who share my belief that Sydney for the Council? the time the local council refused, needs independent and progressive I think our work has only just saying that grass would get in the political representation. Working begun. Sustainable Sydney 2030 is The Abbott Government is also introducing a $7 way of sweeping up broken glass. I together as an Independent Team the plan our community created for fee every time you visit the GP. There is no means started a petition and door-knocked at Council, we have been able Sydney’s future, and while we’ve the neighbourhood. Eventually, to set a long-term vision for our made steady progress there’s still test for this fee, and concession card holders and we got the grass. That was my first city. We’ve made great progress plenty of work to do. S children will only be exempted after 10 GP visits. This will cost people in the electorate of Sydney over $6 million every year.

Australia’s first Repair Café There are many unacceptable proposals in this Andrew Collis budget. As an Opposition, we’ve been going

MARRICKVILLE: What do you do with through the budget line by line. While we won’t be a broken toaster? Or with a bike when opposing everything just for the sake of it, we will the wheel runs out of true? Toss it? No way! The Bower Reuse and Repair not support any Government proposals which place Centre has opened Australia’s first Repair Café. an unreasonable burden on ordinary families and those doing it tough. The Repair Café was launched on Wednesday May 14, with Marrickville Mayor Jo Haylen in attendance. Come along to my Health Forum on Monday 30 “Marrickville Council is proud to sponsor the Bower and this new June at Darlington Public School Hall at 6.30 pm development which is such a positive to discuss the changes to healthcare announced venture,” Cr Haylen said. Guido Verbist, Gavin Hull and Jo Haylen Photo: Kat Hines Bicycles in various states of disrepair in the budget. To discuss the cuts to the pension were brought along to the launch. is broken and can more than likely be easily be used again after a simple Bicycle mechanic Stu worked wonders repaired is welcome.” repair. Unfortunately, many people and other payments with Jenny Macklin, Shadow with screwdrivers, spray lubricant and “The repair café concept started in have forgotten that they can have things Minister for Families and Payments join us at the a spoke spanner. Bikes were repaired. the Netherlands and has been spreading repaired.” Spare parts were salvaged and sorted. across Europe and the USA, and is in The Bower also hosts a range of Pensions Forum, Friday 4 July from 1-­2pm, venue Patron-participants learned something line with the Bower’s objectives and workshops on topics such as furniture valuable and useful. mission,” said Centre Manager, Guido restoration, recycled art, chair TBC, call 02 9379 0700 for more information. Each Wednesday, from 1pm to 5pm, Verbist. “The Repair Café provides a free upholstery, shabby chic, bookbinding various experts are available at the café meeting place where members of the and other educational topics. All Tanya Plibersek – electricians, IT experts, carpenters community can learn the art of repair activities are aimed at limiting the and general furniture repairers – to in a collaborative setting, fostering a environmental impact of landfill, help make all possible repairs, free of culture of creativity, repair and re-use.” reusing secondhand materials and charge. Tools and materials are also By promoting repairs, The Bower generating employment and training on hand. Volunteer Gavin Hull said: wants to help reduce mountains of opportunities. S “People visiting the Repair Café are waste. This is absolutely necessary, invited to bring along their broken items according to Mr Verbist. “We throw The Bower Reuse and Repair Centre from home. Toasters, lamps, hair dryers, away piles of stuff. Even things with Building 43, 142 Addison Road, Marrickville bikes, toys, crockery ... anything that practically nothing wrong, which could www.bower.org.au 6 News June 2014 Cheaper, humane alternatives to mandatory detention

Andrew Wilcox the breaches of international human on offshore detention for the next four rights and refugee law entrenched in years to hit a jaw-dropping $10 billion. tripod cafe Mhaore t n 220 people gathered in Australia’s current policy of mandatory A Q&A discussion followed, giving 262 Abercrombie St, Darlington Sydney on May 7 to hear an expert detention. In particular, he highlighted audience members a chance to ask the Ph: 9698 8677 Open 7 days panel on the mandatory detention of the traumatising impact that detention panel about some of their concerns Mon-Fri 7am-5pm Sat-Sun 8am-4pm asylum seekers in Australia. Hosted has on the mental health of refugees, with the policies. Many participants by Amnesty International Australia’s and the notable issue of indefinite were keen to find positive ways to NSW Refugee Network, the event detention in regards to negative ASIO influence those who are less informed aimed to reveal the truth about the security assessments. on the issue. impact of Australia’s current policies Refugee lawyer, Jo Murphy, a NSW Refugee Network Co-convenor on asylum seekers and the existence migration agent and a member of the Lorraine Walsh said the group was of cheaper and humane alternatives. NSW Council for Civil Liberties Asylum thrilled with the turnout, and felt that Seekers Subcommittee, reflected on the the event was a success. Amnesty’s National Refugee heartbreaking stories of some of her “Our aim was to equip people with Campaigner, Graeme McGregor, drew clients. After fleeing horrific violence, knowledge to be able to have informed on firsthand accounts from his research many continue to endure pain and conversations about what is an area visit to Manus Island that informed suffering because of the uncertainty of great concern for many people,” the highly publicised This is Breaking of their futures while waiting in she said. “This panel was one with People report, released in November detention. incredible experience and expertise, 2013, on the appalling conditions in Professor of Public Law at University and we believe that everyone walked the Australian government-controlled of Sydney, Mary Crock, focused away with the capacity to change the detention centre. her presentation on particularly dialogue around these issues, one “There are cheaper, humane “vulnerable” refugees – those with a conversation at a time.” approaches to processing asylum disability and children – noting various The NSW Refugee Network meets seekers and refugees, so why do inconsistencies with the international on the first Tuesday of each month and we continue to spend an exorbitant Convention on the Rights of the Child. welcomes new people to help it effect amount of money on mandatory Mary Crock posed a simple question: change in national refugee policy and detention where we expose people “Why torture people?” encourage public discussion founded to cruel and inhuman treatment?” The astronomical cost of detention on truth. They can be contacted at he said. was also highlighted by each speaker, [email protected]. S Dr Ben Saul, Professor of especially in light of the recent International Law at the University Commission of Audit, which showed Andrew Wilcox is NSW Refugee of Sydney, systematically outlined projections for government spending Network co-convenor. Sydney and Melbourne 1300 769 389 www.goget.com.au 24/7 access to cars parked nearby Debating policy on inner-city parking

Victoria Pearson

Inner-city residents are divided on the issue of the City of Sydney’s Neighbourhood Parking Policy redraft after a Planning and Committee Meeting was held on May 6. The Assure meeting, held at Town Hall, allowed residents to express concerns or support for the proposed redraft of Psychology the policy. Urban Nature wellbeing centre The proposed redraft includes revisions to the amount of parking 216 enmore rd (cnr edgeware Rd) permits to be distributed in select zones, quantity of visitor parking permits, as enmore nsw 2042 well as the boundaries and reducing the number of parking precincts in the city from 31 to 14. Caring, confidential psychological services Jeanette Brockman addressed the to help you deal with life’s difficulties Council members on behalf of the Chippendale precinct and urged them not to approve any changes to the Bulk billing available on referral from GP policy until further consultation had Photo: Thinkstock been sought for the densely populated suburb. “As you know, we’ve got some of trial parking initiatives in the inner Cricket Ground]. It’s got the pressure Contact Elizabeth Munro on 0408 612 808 major challenges in Chippendale. Our western suburbs. “I’m here to support of Oxford Street. The justification of or at [email protected] local population will have increased by the policy, I think it’s great. We’ve only amalgamating – that you can hop from over 9,000 residents from 2011 to 2017 had restricted parking in the last few one area to another – does not apply by the time Central Park is finished. years, mainly for people commuting to us.” In terms of the actual roads system, out to Channel 7, the airport, Redfern Ms Brockman has urged that the people can’t park on a lot of the major station and such. Although things aren’t Council continue to look at the specifics roads, so they’re forced to park in the perfect now, they’re so much better. So of each area, and not implement a “one- area. That’s going to increase because much better. I can get home and get a size-fits-all” agenda. “We understand of the changes to the light rail and the park usually in my street. I don’t want that you want to have a uniform access routes.” to block the progression of the policy – I policy but we’re actually thinking Ms Brockman used the example of want it to move ahead.” that Chippendale is quite different Bartley Street to illustrate the suburb’s The major point of contention with to other areas. And there are more issues. residents was the amalgamation of challenges being presented because of “You’ve got residents from parking precincts. Areas of concern the university’s expansion.” Abercrombie and Cleveland streets included Darlinghurst, Kings When adopting the parking scheme parking in the residential areas, you’ve Cross, Potts Point, Paddington and changes at its full meeting the following got the businesses that have converted Chippendale. Many representatives week, Council took on board many their garage space into storage space or from Paddington were worried about the of the opinions expressed on May 6. commercial space – so three out of four merging of Paddington and Surry Hills. Areas 15, 17 and 21 will remain separate businesses on that street will actually Richard Green of area 15 (Flinders precincts and the CEO has been asked use the commercial areas. And they’ve St) does not support combining the to review options to more effectively then got the loading zones and they’ll precincts because of the special nature provide permits for tradespersons. also get the business permits on top. of the current zone. “I don’t believe we Council will also begin consultation So we face a really inherent challenge.” should change our area – we shouldn’t in parts of Paddington and in Surry Other residents are supportive of amalgamate the areas as our area is Hills, Kings Cross and Chippendale the policy changes. Joy Brookes of very unique. It’s near COFA [College to address those suburbs’ particular Alexandria spoke out for the success of Fine Arts], it’s near the SCG [Sydney needs. S June 2014 News 7 Church leaders ‘sit-in’ for asylum seekers

SSH channels of policy debate on the issue of asylum seekers, that’s why we are On Monday May 19 church leaders risking arrest today. There comes a were among two groups of Christians time when such grave injustice must to hold simultaneous sit-in prayer be confronted directly through peaceful vigils at the Sydney office of Prime acts of civil disobedience; we believe Minister Tony Abbott and the that to be silent is to be complicit in the Melbourne office of Opposition Leader injustices being perpetrated against Bill Shorten. asylum seekers,” said Dr Brown. Australian church denominations The peaceful action was a response have been united in their concern to Australia’s cruel treatment of asylum for asylum seekers for over a decade. seekers and an appeal to the two major Recent statements by the Australian parties to end the bipartisan tragedy Catholic Bishops Conference and the of offshore detention, especially of Anglican Archbishops of Australia have children. denounced the cruelty of the current Among the sit-in participants were asylum seeker policies supported two Catholic priests, a nun, two Baptist by both major parties. The Uniting pastors, an Anglican Priest, five Uniting and Baptist churches have also Church ministers, and a number of lay recently offered to house and care for church leaders. asylum seekers. Prayer vigil inside Tony Abbott's office Photo: Supplied For the first time in Australian The sit-in actions were inspired by history, leaders of a major Christian recent peaceful protests in the offices “On Monday morning, along with the believers and pray because there are bipartisan change as well as to seek church chose to take part in civil of Immigration Minister Scott Morrison Moderator and six other clergy and lay 1,023 children being damaged as change in the hearts of those who disobedience: the Moderator of the and Foreign Minister Julie Bishop. people from a range of denominations, they are held in detention in centres don’t want to welcome asylum seekers Uniting Church in NSW and ACT, the The sit-ins have used the theme “Love I was arrested for breaching the peace, in Australia and off-shore; because in this country; I sat in prayer with Rev. Dr Brian Brown, participated in the Makes a Way” (#LoveMakesAWay on although no charges were laid. I believe that love and compassion my fellow believers from a range of sit-in at Mr Abbott’s office; and former Twitter) which is a response to the “As the church sat together – clergy should be offered to all asylum seekers; other denominations because it was a President of the National Assembly of government’s “No Way” advertising and lay people – we filled the room with because we can name here people statement of unity in diversity, an act the Uniting Church in Australia, the campaign. prayer. It was a deep and sincere act of who seek asylum in Australia and of ecumenical love; I sat in prayer for Rev. Dr Alistair Macrae, participated in The Rev. Nicole Fleming of the love offered in the name of Christ, the have become valuable to us in this the love of Christ because it is what the the sit-in at Mr Shorten’s office. Balmain Uniting Church, who took part one in whom love makes a way. community. gospel demands of me; because I hope “Churches have exhausted all formal in the prayer vigil in Sydney, reflected: “I took this risk to sit with my fellow “I sat in prayer for a compassionate, that love does make a way.” S

MICKEY’S FRUIT &VEG 86 Pitt St – Redfern – NSW 2016 Ph 8399 0243 | Fax 9699 8417 [email protected] MICKEY’S Redfern's finest foods

MICKEY’S DELI 86 A Pitt St – Redfern – NSW 2016 Ph 8399 0244 | Fax 9699 8417 [email protected] 8 News June 2014

Keeping healthy on a veggie diet

by Louisa Dyce

You are what you eat. That is a very truthful statement and one that many of us do adhere to. However, a vegan or vegetarian can miss out on some vital nutrients. Prevention is also better than a cure.

You need vitamin B12. To be deficient with this vitamin can cause nerve or neurological damage. Many plant-based milk products are fortified with B12 (also yoghurts, breakfast cereals, spreads, yeast extracts and nutritional yeast products), but it’s important to check. Dr Teresa Anderson, Dianne Rodgers and Vivianne Freeman and Supt Luke Freudenstein Photo: Lyn Turnbull Otherwise, a supplement may be what is needed to make sure that you don’t miss out. Volunteers in Redfern Calories and protein. Yes, this can be a problem, so please make sure you eat those nuts, tofu and tempeh, beans and peas. If you are low in protein these may be a warning sign: and Waterloo tiredness, feeling weak, unable to lift anything. You can Lyn Turnbull and City of Sydney and UNSW Beyonce’s Australian tour and being also become flabby and if injured you can take longer to Community Development Project potted filmed for her promotional video TFhe actory Community Centre’s herbs for all the volunteers. featured on Facebook and YouTube. heal. The last one is that your hair can fall out, so making Volunteers Community Participation Among the recipients were four They even got to meet the star herself sure that you have enough is important. Awards recognise the many young men, Tyrell Freeman Mafi, Felise backstage before they opened her contributions of volunteers to the inner Freeman Mafi, Jaxon Peterson and Will Sydney show! city. Each year for the past seven years Hartwith, nominated by Barnardos Erskineville Bowling club provided Iron is required. As we all know, it helps carry oxygen to the Awards lunch has grown larger for their efforts and contributions to a wonderful venue on one of this and larger, so much so that this year all its various programs across Sydney, year’s warm May days. Guests enjoyed the blood. We need it to function, so please, if you feel volunteer activities needed to happen including in Redfern and Waterloo. lunch while listening to music by dizzy, fatigued and very tired, see a doctor. It’s important in Redfern and Waterloo. Both Tyrell and Felise have also been Sam Pelligrino and being entertained a part of the Yurungai Dance Group for by David Dodgen’s magic tricks. The to get to it early. So active is the volunteer culture a number of years. hard work of the staff teams of South of Redfern and Waterloo that, despite Yurungai Dance Group’s award Sydney Community Aid and The Factory this restriction, 120 volunteers received was accepted by Dianne Rodgers and Community Centre meant that a great Omega-3 fatty acids are what we need for energy and awards, either as individuals or on Vivianne Freeman who have worked day was had by all, celebrating those who better brain function. You can find it in things like behalf of groups. Waterloo Salvation with the children for many years. The make a real difference in the Redfern and Army provided wonderful showbags highlight for Yurangai this year was Waterloo communities. S walnuts, flaxseed and canola oil. A weekly intake of 6 to 8 grams is all you need to be healthy.

Vitamin D. Here in Australia we have little trouble producing vitamin D if we are out in the sunshine. Though for avoidance of skin cancer we want to stay out of the sun between 10am and 2pm (11am and 3pm Daylight Saving Time). Put on sunscreen in those hours for protection.

Iodine helps make the hormone for your thyroid. Without iodine you can get what is called an enlarged goiter, which is a large lump that forms on the outside of your throat. Iodine is very important for pregnant mothers to have as it helps the child in the womb develop. You can find iodine in cheese, milk, yoghurt, eggs, table salt, different sorts of seaweed and also in soy.

Big Issue Vendors at the Little Eveleigh office Photo: Peter Holcroft This is a very quick overview on what to look out for. For more information visit a reputable site such as www.vegansociety.com, and please consult your doctor. The Big Issue celebrates 18 years

Samuel Clark sums it up nicely, explaining: “The Enterprise and Street Soccer also magazine has been a great success assisting those needing some help. Fverrom e yone at The Big Issue because it gives people meaningful Nevertheless, none of this would be we would like to thank all of our work and the opportunity to reconnect possible without your support. So to all Column sponsored by customers for their ongoing support with the community.” our customers, both regular and new, and assistance. Modelled on the UK Big Issue in we would like to thank you for your 1996, the not-for-profit social enterprise support. You are integral to rebuilding TRIPOD CAFÉ On June 16 we will be celebrating started in Melbourne and has had over vendors’ confidence and pride, and th 262 Abercrombie Street, Darlington our 18 Birthday. Also in June we 4,500 people selling the magazine. growing their self-worth. S Tel 9698 8677 (Open seven days) will be marking the sale of our nine- There are currently more than millionth magazine! It is clear that, 500 vendors nationally, 75 in NSW, If you would like to volunteer, or if Spectacular gastronomy without you, we would not be able generating an honest income by buying anyone you know could benefit from direct from heaven to pursue our goal of supporting the magazine for $3 and selling it on becoming a vendor for The Big Issue, and creating job opportunities the street for $6. please contact the Sydney office for homeless, marginalised and The Big Issue is more than the for more information: 125-127 Little disadvantaged people. magazine, however, with initiatives Eveleigh St, Redfern; phone 83327200; The Big Issue editor, Alan Attwood, such as the Women’s Subscription email [email protected]. June 2014 COMMENT & OPINION 9

EDITORIAL The report from the front lines (hospitals, police, street cleaners and Loast m nth Kings Cross ER: residents) is that former premier Barry St Vincent’s Hospital won the Most O’Farrell’s plan to curb alcohol-related Outstanding Factual Program violence in Kings Cross works – just as it Logie. From a health awareness did in Newcastle. Measures include: no perspective, the 10-part series, aired alcohol sales after 3am; a 1am lockout on Foxtel, has proven highly effective (or “one-way door” where patrons cannot in showcasing the extent of alcohol- enter a venue after 1.30am); a new risk- related injuries. based liquor licensing framework; a system of fines for people being drunk According to the Australian Education or causing trouble on the streets; and Rehabilitation Foundation the cost mandatory sentences for some alcohol- to society of the misuse of alcohol is $36 related crime. billion. The damage break down is: One While some of these remain in three people report being negatively contentious, a large body of international affected by someone’s drinking; 20,000 evidence shows that stopping the service children are victims of alcohol-related of late-night alcohol reduces assaults, abuse; 60 per cent of police call-outs emergency department attendances and involve alcohol; 20 per cent of Australians other harms. Peter Miller, Research Fellow drink at risky levels; Males are twice at Deakin University, reports the streets of as likely to drink daily as females; One Kings Cross virtually empty after 3.30am in 8 deaths of people under 25 involves and no obvious trouble associated with alcohol; 1,200 deaths attributed to alcohol people going home. Miller’s findings are in NSW annually; 51,000 people were entirely consistent with the evidence but admitted to NSW hospitals in 2011-12 contrary to much of the hype of those for alcohol-related reasons. with vested interests. S cartoon: HRH norrie mAy-welby

Older women and homelessness Come to me and I will give you rest COMMENT particular interest in homelessness rented all their lives, others may have faith humility as one who is not God and where it concerns women. Women lost their homes through divorce and cannot really take on the whole world. Felicity Reynolds represented 46 per cent of the total have been unable to buy back into Dorothy McRae-McMahon It can separate you from many of the number of people who were counted as expensive capital city housing markets. gifts of life which lie around you and The Mercy Foundation is an homeless on census night 2011 (ABS). Few have previously had involvement I was sitting with my eyes closed can restore health and well-being – organisation committed to social Often, women are described as the with welfare and other support systems. alongside my friends in our like music and art, and creativity in justice and structural change to create hidden homeless, staying with friends In the large majority of these instances, Meditation Group, trying to move writing or reading. It can make you greater social equity and inclusion in or relatives, in cars or sheltering in these women’s homelessness will be into a peaceful meditative state. into someone who chooses to have the Australian community and is a women’s refuges. ended through rapid re-housing, access However, my mind was full of no time to share life with friends, work of the North Sydney Sisters of We knew there were anecdotal to affordable and permanent housing, worries about all that lay ahead for to laugh and play and restore your Mercy. One of the goals of the Mercy reports that suggested some women with little need for any additional me to do in the next few days – going energy. Foundation is to advocate for and were becoming homeless for the first supports. over and over things as though that None of this means that it is support policy and practice responses time in their lives at an older age. In would help me cope. not important to have goals and to homelessness based on evidence order to understand this issue better, Launch of the research report commitments in one’s life – the and current research. the Mercy Foundation commissioned On April 14, 2014, the Mercy Then an inner voice said, “Come resolve to bring in good changes researchers Dr Maree Petersen and Dr Foundation launched the findings to me and I will give you rest”. Of and to take our stands for the well- Ending homelessness, not endlessly Cameron Parsell from the University of the research report to the public. course, as a Christian, those words being of others. The reality is that servicing homeless people of Queensland to investigate older The Hon. Anna Bligh, CEO YWCA were familiar to me – the expressing we will find that we can actually The Foundation is focused on working women’s homelessness and research NSW, officially launched the report of the balances of life which we are carry out these hopes better if we to end homelessness in Australia. We effective pathways out of homelessness and Dr Maree Peterson presented the offered whether we are people of will accept our need to rest and relax. don’t believe that a country as fortunate for that group. findings. The research revealed that faith, or not. I reflected on the nature Our imagination and dreams will be and well off as Australia should have older women’s risk of homelessness of fullness of life, that which engages restored in ways which we may never a group of citizens without housing Research report can be lessened by the way welfare and with us deeply, body, mind, heart have expected. We will genuinely and, in some instances, the ongoing The research report found that housing systems work and interact with and soul. give what we have because we long health and community supports to there are a variety of reasons why older women. However, there remains As a young girl with a Methodist to do that, rather than because we help them sustain that housing. We older women may become homeless. a lack of evidence that considers issues Minister father, I remembered how feel that we ought to be doing it. That acknowledge that short-term responses These include shortfalls in public of specific concern to older women. hard it was to move away from feeling means that the way we relate to others to homeless people, such as food and and affordable housing, high cost There is a lack of attention to older that my calling was to endlessly will be more humble and perceptive, shelter, are important – but we believe of rental accommodation, domestic women’s homelessness internationally, work for good and justice and with rather than driven and often with that we must put in place strategies, violence, an increase in single person despite recognition of demographic compassion for others. The idea of excess ego. policies and programs that ‘end’ people’s households, increasing longevity, lack of changes, increasing numbers of older making sure that I had enough time I knew from my more recent path in homelessness through the increased superannuation and savings, decreased people living in poverty, as well as for rest and relaxation didn’t occur life that you can say “No”, even when supply of affordable housing and employment prospects and fewer service the ageing of people who are already to me. Later on, when I joined many the request is to take on a worthy support services. We believe that the options for women who are homeless, homeless. movements for change, I could see project. Some of us find that hard to answer to the relatively small group of or at risk of becoming homeless. Like A range of policy, service and housing that many non-religious people also do, partly because we feel honoured people who have additional health and all types of homelessness, the primary responses are needed. If you are lived with that sort of zeal. It is as to be asked and partly because deep disability issues and who experience reason is always about poverty. To quote interested in reading the report, please though our lives become consumed within us there is some relentless God chronic homelessness is permanent the researchers, “homeless older women visit the Mercy Foundation website, by our care for others. of our own making who demands supportive housing. The Foundation have become a poignant symbol of www.mercyfoundation.com.au and Some people may see this as a sign more than we can actually give. also commissions research from time to housing insecurity in Australia”. follow the links to Latest News. S of great virtue. Maybe, in some ways, I sat there with my friends in the time to better inform policy and practice Of concern is the fact that the largest it is. However, if you are religious, silence and found that my inner life to end homelessness in Australia. proportion of older women presenting Felicity Reynolds is the CEO of the it can also portray an image of the could be restored if I would allow with a housing crisis in Australia have Mercy Foundation. She will be guest God you serve as relentless and the divine gift of rest to be given Women and homelessness led conventional lives, whilst working speaker at the SSH Winter Fundraiser separating you from so many things and to restore my fullness of life and The Mercy Foundation also has a and raising a family. Some may have on July 19 (see front page for details). which recreate your life and invite my energy. S

Graffiti may well have a place in We have heard that the railways society with regard to sharing political intend to remove all the graffiti Tackling graffiti taggers and social messages the mainstream between Strathfield and Central in a media excludes. Examples can be few months. They are probably just found in ancient historic locations wasting taxpayers’ money unless there OPINION There’s a nice big stretch of brick wall is cleaned. in several parts of the world. But is a clear follow-up strategy to catch the wall in the railway cutting which runs Graffiti tagging is regarded as the graffiti most people seem to find offenders. No doubt, the taggers will David Polkington under Cleveland Street. It’s a favourite “malicious damage” by police but there annoying is the mindless painting of now be salivating at the opportunity target for taggers. Since January, this seems to be little successful effort being tags, or graffiti signatures, everywhere the clean-up will give them. T he dELIght – some would say wall has been over-painted in plain applied to try and stop this disfiguring – small and single colour, super-large On a glorious autumn day in the blight – of graffiti tagging in brown paint three times. And every of our city. I am sure that these “artists” and very colourful, often in hard-to- recent years, I had the opportunity Sydney is particularly noticeable time, it is only a few days before the actually love the railways over-painting access locations. to take the all-day train from southern along railway lines. It is worth taking graffiti starts to reappear. The size and existing graffiti. It gives a “fresh It all seems to be driven by a Germany, across Austria and Slovenia, the quick train ride from Central (or nature of this “art” means that it takes canvas” for the taggers to work on. perverse form of egoism, daring and to the Croatian capital of Zagreb. In Redfern) to Strathfield and back to see the tagger several days to complete – Now, my tastes in art are sufficiently competition amongst a small group of Germany and Austria, there was no an extensive representative sample well, nights actually – as it all seems eclectic that I can enjoy the murals on young men. Recent years have seen graffiti to be seen. As soon as we of this so-called art form. Look one to happen in the small hours. buildings and walls done in the graffiti some control over sales of pressure- crossed the border into Slovenia, and side on the way out; the other on Clearly, there is no strategy to try street-art style. However, if we are to pack spray cans of paint to juveniles. on into Croatia, there was graffiti the way back. Most of it occurs on and catch the culprits. It seems that brighten our suburbs with murals on But it seems that many of the offenders everywhere. If some smart countries government-owned property. neither local police, nor railway police, walls, surely other art styles should are guys in their 20s and 30s for whom can prevent the blight of graffiti or rail security are advised when a also be represented. the sales ban doesn’t apply. tagging, why can’t we? S 10 FUEAT RE June 2014

The Trading Circle store in Summer Hill Photo: Isabella Dinhvu Trading their way out of poverty Two billion people in the world live on less than $2 a day, with many depending on agriculture for their livelihoods. In an ever-increasing integrated global economy, consumers in developed countries have a direct impact on third world producers and communities through their purchasing decisions. Consumers want low prices and more production. Companies aim to increase profit margins and please shareholders. These demands reach the world’s weakest producers. There is huge pressure to meet orders and do so more cheaply, subsequently driving wages and working conditions down.

Isabella Dinhvu certification body is transparent. retail outlet in Summer Hill called who are part of the Hands of Hope along with images, is displayed With this certification, the The Trading Circle. It is designed project in Thailand, an initiative throughout the store. They have Ts his i where the notion of organisation is able to pass on the to “support income-generating established by The Good Shepherd also developed a program which fair trade comes in. Fair trade premium paid for its goods. The projects, micro enterprises and Sisters. She is HIV positive and educates school children on fair encompasses civilised working Fairtrade Premium is the additional community cooperatives to help suffers from tuberculosis of the trade. The Trading Circle celebrated conditions, sustainability, stable sum of money, which is paid over women in dire need”. Over 20 bones. Due to being bed-ridden she Fair Trade Fortnight with a store prices and fair terms of trade for the agreed Fairtrade Price. One years ago, the Sisters engaged became unemployable. Wanting event launching its own blend of farmers and producers. The first hundred per cent of the premium with various producer groups in to provide Yupin with an income, Fairtrade coffee. It distributed over two weeks of May marked Fair goes directly to the producer. Asia, South America and Africa. the Sisters employed her to make 140 show bags to children in the Trade Fortnight, an annual pom-poms (like the ones on the end local community which included nationwide celebration of a fair of a beanie) from her lying position. Fairtrade information and items trading system. A forum was Today, she is still supported through such as Fairtrade chocolate, a key hosted as part of the celebration The premium is sometimes used for cash her work from the Hands of Hope ring, a colouring-in storybook about to showcase the reality of project. an African boy and his cocoa- fair trade in Australia and its bonuses, expanding our farms, helping “One of the most satisfying farming family, and a card made by impacts in developing countries. elements of our work at the Trading the Producer Group women. schools with materials and uniforms, Circle is to be able to support and “We feel it is really important for Molly Olson, CEO of Fairtrade implement as much as we can to children to have an understanding Australia and New Zealand, and improving our water access the Good Shepherd Sisters’ original of fair trade and the power they disclosed the organisation’s goal mission, which was to simply ‘help have when it comes to purchasing. of achieving long-term sustainable women and girls in less fortunate Pretty soon they will become teens futures. With 1.3 million producers, circumstances trade their way out of and consumers themselves, and we farmers and workers around the “The premium is sometimes used for They created a business avenue for poverty’. It is not with handouts, it feel that there is a need to educate world dependent on decisions made cash bonuses, expanding our farms, the women in these areas, utilising is through empowering them,” says them before they reach this stage, by companies and consumers in helping schools with materials and their skills and craftsmanship for Di Brennan, General Manger. so they can make an educated developed countries, it is in essence uniforms, and improving our water the Australian market. The women The Trading Circle makes a choice,” says Bindi Katakalos, a global situation the organisation access. Fairtrade provides us the were trained to establish businesses, conscious effort to educate the Store Manager. is attempting to change. Currently, premium immediately, unlike many which provided a safe environment community on the ethical concept Ninety-three per cent of cocoa growers receive 3.5-6 per other companies farmers deal with”, for them to earn a stable income. of fair trade and the power that consumers in Australia believe cent of the average retail price of a says Esther Mintah Ephraim, cocoa The store buys directly from these an individual purchase has on companies engaging with chocolate bar. In light of this, the farmer from Kuapa Kokoo, Ghana Producer Groups and exclusively women and girls in the developing developing countries should pay organisation aims to increase the (member of the Fairtrade Kuapa stocks their products, with the world. With every purchased item, farmers and workers fairly. With number of producers with Fairtrade Kokoo cooperative for eight years). exception of carefully selected included is a flyer with information power in the consumer’s hand, Certification. The Certification In response to global poverty local items. This ensures as much on the cause behind the Trading purchasing Fairtrade Certified goods has ISO65 accreditation, which and in support of Fairtrade, the revenue as possible goes directly Circle and why choosing Fairtrade is means a promising future for all, is internationally recognised as Sisters of The Good Shepherd back to the producers. so critical. especially the farmers, producers the strongest indicator that a established an ethical fair trade Yupin is one of the many women Information on producer groups, and their communities. S The Review June ’14 11

Merenia, Emma Donovan, Ursula Yovich, Whirimako Black, Vicki Gordon, Maisey Rika and Ngaiire Photo: Supplied Barefoot Divas take on the world Emily Dash and her mother Anne from the Faces of [dis]Ability exhibition. Emily is Vice-President of the Board of FRANS, an arts graduate from Sydney University and a beneficiary of FRANS services. Photo: Lorraine MacLarty SSH festivals in collaboration with each of opened the 2013 Australasian World the women and produced the ground- Music Expo in Melbourne and secured Imagine a group of six Indigenous breaking work Walk A Mile In My a US agent. They have recently returned female singer-songwriters who are all Shoes; a combination of spoken word from their first North American tour Images of remarkable artists in their own right. poetry, storytelling and song. With wowing audiences and engaging with Imagine if they came together to sing musical direction by acclaimed musician marginalised communities in Oakland six-part harmonies and to celebrate Adam Ventoura, and with their six- California, Pearl City Hawaii, Banff and share their cultural knowledge and part harmonies and soaring voices, the Centre Canada and Washington DC. startling insights. Now imagine if those women Barefoot Divas perform a combination Opening at the top of the US presenting had an enthusiastic and visionary of original compositions in Aboriginal & field, Barefoot Divas commenced their producer who wanted to take these PNG languages and a fusion of English North American tour with a concert in six remarkable women and showcase and Maori (Te Reo), swinging between the Zellerbach Auditorium Berkeley, a intimacy them to the world. What you have Acoustic Roots, R&B and Latin-infused leader and taste-maker renowned for just imagined is the Barefoot Divas, Soul. The women are supported by six presenting internationally acclaimed conceived and managed by Redfern world-class musicians from Chile, Sicily, artists such as Sweet Honey in the Rock Julie McCrossin of MacLarty and FRANS to resident, Vicki Gordon. Greece and New Zealand Maori, each and Lady Black Smith Mambazo. inclusion as a core principle. of whom brings an individual cultural In Oakland California Barefoot Divas A remarkable new, large- “Little attention has been paid Barefoot Divas include the critically- heritage to the stage. worked with TEMPO students (Teens format book of photography to photographing people with acclaimed Indigenous singer-songwriters Barefoot Divas’ live album, Walk A Empowered by Music and Performance and text, FRANS Families, disabilities,” MacLarty says. “I want Ursula Yovich (Burarra/Serbia) and Mile In My Shoes, was released in the US, Opportunities) in the School Age Families offers a rare insight into the to improve community perceptions Emma Donovan (Gumbaynggirr), NZ Canada, Australia and NZ in July 2013. Education Program (Cal-SAFE), an hidden daily lives of people with by presenting difficult issues with Laureate Whirimako Black (Māori), The album received glowing reviews and alternative high school program for disabilities and their families. sensitivity, dignity and respect, multi-award-winning Maisey Rika was hailed as being as new and exciting pregnant and parenting 14-18 year using the genres of portraiture and (Māori), Merenia (Māori/Romany- as new African sounds were a generation olds from low and moderate income The photographer, Lorraine social concern documentary.” Gypsy) a beat-throwing artist who sings back in the wake of Paul Simon exploring backgrounds. Many of the students in the MacLarty, spent a year visiting The images of mothers and in five languages and Ngaiire from Papua the continent (Midwest Records). program have had little or no exposure to 12 families and documenting daughters are especially striking New Guinea. The late and highly respected theatre music or other arts programs. Several of their lives. Each of the families and deeply moving. They show the Barefoot Divas kicked off in 2012 when critic James Waite describes his Barefoot them have known abandonment, abuse receives services from the inner- great bond that prolonged mutual they performed their world premiere Divas experience: “I felt like I was lying on and violence (last year, two Cal-SAFE west disability service, FRANS, dependence and physical care can production of Walk A Mile In My Shoes my side on lush grass and these beautiful students were murdered by their partners). which has provided inclusion and create, as well as the stresses. “I to sold-out houses, receiving standing women performers were pouring nectar In Canada, Barefoot Divas wove their support services for people with express my deepest appreciation ovations for every single performance into my ear – and it was running down magic with young children from the disabilities for over 30 years. to each family who allowed as part of the Sydney Festival and New into my soul. It was the integrity as Stoney Nakoda Nations (Sioux People) “Each of the 12 families was me into their lives,” MacLarty Zealand International Arts Festival. much as the accomplishment, the gift and in their final US performance, in the asked to allow me into their says. “It was often a joyous and Producer and manager, Vicki Gordon for ‘healing’ these empowered women Seattle Town Hall, they dedicated their daily lives,” MacLarty explains, uplifting experience; at times (Ngati Kahungunu), is a New Zealand- artists possess. I don’t believe you have concert to One Billion Rising for Justice, “with the understanding that emotional and heart-wrenching.” born Australian who has worked as a to be autobiographically connected. I am a one day call to strike, dance and sing they would continue their normal FRANS Families costs $100 and musician, music and festival director, pretty sure most people in the audience to end violence against women and girls routine and that I would be all proceeds go to FRANS. To obtain record label executive, artist manager and felt the same way. It’s to do with the founded in 2013 by US playwright Eve as unobtrusive as possible.” a copy, contact Peter Schneider producer for the past 25 years. Barefoot preservation of centuries-old truths in Ensler, the largest recorded global social The result is images of startling at FRANS Inc., PO Box 210 Divas is the culmination of her kaupapa the bodies of these women – what makes action event in human history. intimacy. A selection of the work, Croydon 2132, or phone 9797 5316. (sacred cause) to explore her connection them Indigenous artists. And they remind As a result of their extraordinary curated by Sandy Edwards, was Lorraine MacLarty can be contacted to her Maori heritage and combine it us how ‘emptied out’ so much of our own impact in the US, Barefoot Divas have exhibited at the Tap Gallery in at www.lorrainemaclarty.com. with her enduring commitment to the culture has become.” been invited back to Hawaii, and strong Darlinghurst in May as part of importance of showcasing women singer- In less than two years since they interest has been confirmed for Japan the Head On Photo Festival. This Julie McCrossin is the Patron of songwriters on the international stage. debuted as the “surprise hit” of the Sydney and Cuba. Barefoot Divas perform as participation in a mainstream FRANS (Making Things Happen for Award-winning Sydney playwright Festival, Barefoot Divas have gone on to part of the Hong Kong International photographic festival reflects People with Disabilities) Alana Valentine was commissioned to perform at music festivals across Australia Arts Festival for International Women’s the fundamental commitment www.frans.com.au write a script for the Sydney and NZ (QMF and Mullum Music Festival), Day, March 8, 2015. 12 The Review June ’14

any of MacFarlane’s earlier work string of sold-out national tour set as usual, which seems an easy feat then you’ll like A Million Ways. dates with a final performance at with the veteran Ozi Batla heading The Reviews It all ends in a massive gun The Metro on Saturday May 24. the band. Sydney-based bassist John battle apparently, but it was right In a red and white dress with just Maddox provided steady grooves and Theatre Review Jordan), Bruny for short, with large then that the preview screening a ukulele and a mic to hide behind, the band didn’t hesitate to bring guest by Catherine Wood blonde plaits, large metallic bustier, was abandoned by an emergency Vanessa Caspersz’s humble stage artist after guest artist on stage. They a big voice and ego to match, is “evacuate evacuate” siren so I fled presence and demeanour didn’t performed a couple of new tracks eager for fresh audiences to conquer. the scene and checked out Vivid exactly suggest that of a beat-boxer which got the crowd excited for the She deceives the questing duo instead. I’ve been invited to see the who is becoming quickly renowned release of their upcoming album into taking her with them on their ending but I think I’ll pass on that and sought after for her world-class Mekong Delta Sunrise, Astronomy voyage of discovery by claiming and maybe see Vivid again instead. talents. Her cover of Tuka’s “Die a Class’ first release since 2009. she knows the way to the New Rating: Three too Happy Man” was a highlight, not just Finally, Thundamentals hit the World. Perhaps she does – after all many genital jokes. because of the context but because of stage to a house full of screaming the Vikings had been there before the sheer dynamics of Vanessa’s soulful fans. It was pretty amazing to see – and they arrive on the shores of »»[email protected] singing coupled with her beat-boxing, these Blue Mountains boys in front of the land of opportunity, or, at least, which had the crowd looking for a such a huge crowd after seeing them the Hollywood version. Charlie loop pedal that just wasn’t there. I perform at Oxford Art Factory just Poo Poo Pee Doo Chaplain (White), Groucho (Sont) think the crowd, around half full at a couple of years ago. MCs Jeswon A Theatre Excentrique Production and Sugar Cane aka MM (Kirsty Live Music Review this stage, were all pretty stoked that and Tuka lapped up the audience’s performed at ‘A Night in Gay Paree!’ Jordan), are readily recognisable by Liz Hughes they had decided to come early. enthusiasm, asking everyone to put fundraiser for Sandy Point cinematic variations of stock types, Fozzey & VanC finished their their fists in the air and “make a peace Dragon Boat Club, each with their own exaggerated opening tune by agreeing with the sign with it” and giving shout-outs Saturday May 17, 2014. traits and stylistic mannerisms. crowd, who modestly applauded, that to both old and new fans. Their In a crazy denounement, the origin they got off to a “rough start”. Slowly verses were so well executed that the In turns fantastic, grotesque and of the good ship’s curious name, Poo the set gained more and more energy lyrics were audible even above the hilarious, Poo Poo Pee Doo, scripted Poo Pee Doo, and the motivating until the end of the set, when everyone noise of the crowd. The visuals and and directed by the multi-talented factor for the creation of comic theatre was singing along to their hit “Perfect impressive lighting provided extra Anna Jahjah, is a joyous romp in the are revealed simultaneously. Go to see Couple”. Their electronic backing texture to the performance and it was anarchic spirit of commedia dell’arte. this play when it is performed again tracks, although self-produced, excellent to see a hip-hop gig with Each of her small compagnie gleefully if you want to know the secret. Go to detracted from the experience a life performances from guest vocalists, plays several characters, and it seems, see it because the compagnie is superb. little, especially considering they including Mataya for “Home In Thundamentals sometimes several characters almost Who can forget the Angel of Silence were on a bill with three other Your Head” and Tom Crawford for with Astronomy Class, Fozzey & at once, energetically subverting (Kirsty Jordan) crisscrossing the impressive live acts. However, the Thundamentals’ hit track “Something VanC and Vanessa Caspersz gender, culture, politics and revelling stage on a scooter, or the cheerfully vulnerability in the lyrics, which I Said”. The energy of both the The Metro Theatre in ridiculous situations, absurd servile manner of Coyote in his focus on relationships, coupled with performers and crowd coupled with Saturday May 24 repartee and entertaining stage action. role as humble sweeper to the Don catchy choruses, provided a sense the success of Thundamentals’ latest The comic action is enhanced by or his intrusive trumpeting as his of honesty and originality to the album has proven that their hard work the playwright’s decision to have her master speaks, or Cap-ten’s rotund Following the success of their performance that has me intrigued and patience has finally paid off. characters speak in rhyming verse. smug self-assuredness? Thanks be latest release, So We Can Remember, about where they are heading. While the rhyme demonstrates for Anna Jahjah, a true comico. Thundamentals wrapped up a Astronomy Class delivered a solid »»[email protected] a lively ingenuity, and failure to find a rhyme the subject of several »»[email protected] witticisms, the rhyming couplet results in a high-energy, fast-paced dialogue while also firmly establishing Using very little to create big things the improbable world of the play. Film Review This world has its own bizarre logic by Lindsay Cohen Artist Profile: Vanessa Caspersz as do all the imaginary landscapes which Poo Poo Pee Doo lampoons but to which it also pays homage. Andrew Collis In an appropriately Shakespearean tactic, the action begins with the On Saturday July 19 Sydney beaching of the good ship Poo Poo folk musician Vanessa Caspersz Pee Doo, her bombastic Cap-ten will perform at the SSH Winter (Kris Shalvey) and wily wide-eyed Fundraiser at the South Sydney underling, Say-lore (Anna Jayjah), Uniting Church in Waterloo. on a desert island. This histrionic pair discovers a still extant July-et Can you tell us a little about your A Million Ways to Die in the West musical interests and inspirations. Caputlet (a muscular Gerry Sont in Director: Seth MacFarlane How has your writing and performing a fuchsia satin gown and unlikely Starring: Seth MacFarlane, evolved? blonde wig) mourning her Romeo Charlize Theron, Liam Neeson Mountainscrew. The vanity of the Musically, I am mainly interested in Genre: Seth MacFarlane Vanessa Caspersz at the Camelot Lounge in Marrickville Photo: Reecie magnificently uniformed Cap- performing and collaborating! I love ten makes him an easy target for playing in a variety of different venues July-et while the efforts of the You know what you’re getting and styles, from big concerts to little What do you like to do when you’re show was having a big sound and jealous Say-lore, disguised first as a with Seth MacFarlane and that’s backyard gigs. I love to collaborate with not making music? playing to so many of my friends who palm-tree and then as a parrot, to not necessarily a bad thing. Think other musicians, and as I am a beat-boxer, I work at a school one day a week had come up from the mountains, and eavesdrop on this unlikely romantic Peter from Family Guy meets Ted in I am finding it very exciting exploring doing learning support and teaching to the musicians I have admired for a duo exhibits an inventive zaniness cowboy hats and you pretty much the potential of the voice and working a little bit of beat-boxing when I can long time! It was definitely a very special that typifies the whole of the play. understand the entire film already. with different ensembles. I also enjoy sneak it in! I am currently training at Fbi gig to me and the Thundamentals were The picaresque plot of Poo Poo Pee Even the woman introducing the exploring music as a form of therapy and radio, too, which I am really enjoying. insane! Doo follows upon the rather random film preview screening advised us how beat-boxing can be used as a tool to I work in a bakery and sometimes I do decision of the Cap-ten and Say-lore, to leave our maturity at the door. express and help people communicate. little drawings. Do you have a sense of what the stock characters from the commedia A Million Ways is a western and I am inspired by creative thinking next year or two holds for you as tradition with a Jahjah twist, to set it wears its clichés and stereotypes people who are able to continually You recently performed at the an artist? out on a quest for the New World. loudly and proudly. From the re-define what music and art is in their Metro… I am about to start studying music at They disembark in Spain, and are Bonanza-like opening credits to the community. Also those who use very Yes! This is one of my biggest gigs uni! I want to develop my skills and grow imprisoned by Don, “the first and John Wayne-era music, A Million little to create big things. My writing in so far. The Thundamentals are from my as a musician, and uni is the best place to last” (Sont), who believes there to Ways isn’t afraid to subvert its genre a lyrical sense has been put on hold for hometown in the Blue Mountains so I do that. I am really keen to start writing be no other land than his own, and at the same time it embraces it. Full the last two years as I have been focusing have liked them from when I was about more with the goal to start planning the whose servant Coyote (Anthony of running gags about not smiling on composing and arranging beat-box 14. They called me to see if I wanted to creation of my first EP. White), in a flurry of wildly funny in photos, to hookers and fights and vocal pieces. When I was in London play with them on their Sydney show, activity, shores up Don’s illusion in saloons, it also includes a fair I was luckily given many amazing and but it was on April Fool’s Day so I wasn’t The SSH Winter Fundraiser (with that he is the centre of the universe. dash of social commentary about rare opportunities to acquire as much sure if it was a prank from one of my vegetarian dinner by Tripod Café in When the Don imprisons the the role of women in America’s knowledge and as many tools as I could friends! I was really excited because they Darlington) will also feature the John two adventurers as performers in Wild West and the plight of in regards to beat-boxing, like working are one of the biggest Australian hip-hop Harkins Trio (jazz) and guest speaker his own drama, Say-lore, cast as a Native and Black Americans. with some of the best beat-boxers in bands at the moment and they put so Felicity Reynolds (CEO, The Mercy ravishing Dulcinea, and her Cap-ten Yet A Million Ways is no Blazing the world such as Shlomo and Reeps much energy into their stage shows. The Foundation). South Sydney Uniting escape, only to be captured by a Saddles. It lacks the scope, the classic One. Since returning to Sydney I have Metro is a big venue so I was excited to Church, 56a Raglan St Waterloo, dominating Wagnerian creation. lines, the subtlety (in a way), the been putting all I learned in London change my set a little to be more “big” 6-10pm. Tickets $80/60. Please Brünnhilde Gerhilde Ortlinde memorable scenes and the Mel to good use and performing about two and technical. email [email protected] (we will Waltraute Schwertleite (Kirsty Brooks pedigree. But if you liked gigs a week. The most exciting thing about the let you know payment options). The Review June ’14 13

photographed have no formal equestrian training. “I have met many fearless, competent riders all of whom are down-to-earth, kind-hearted people who love their horses,” says Horan. He has photographed everyone from tweed-suited older gentlemen, to the travellers and gypsies living in their caravans, to the tracksuit-clad youth from the estates and nearby working class suburbs – teenagers keen to show off their ponies and bareback riding skills on the cobbled stone squares and city streets ... The Irish government, in attempting to control and reduce urban horse ownership, as well as moderate the historic city and rural horse fairs, is imposing The Control of Horses Act, 1996. The end result may lead to the extinction of this unique and fascinating Irish sub-culture. James Horan is an editorial and commercial photographer, based in Sydney. He moved to Australia in early 2007 to work for News Ltd, but personal circumstances saw him returning later that year. For the next five years James worked Irish equin-imity and lived in Dublin. Irish Horse was created during this time. “Smithfield Boys with Pony” Photo: James Horan Irish Horse SSH in makeshift stables and rough The story of Irish gypsies and the young people the care for their James Horan shelters on the estates. His mother their horses is part of Irish culture, pet horse is a positive and nurturing Till June 14, 2014 James Horan was born often warned him to stay away largely un-discussed. Horse experience and gives hope where Brenda May Gallery in Limerick, Ireland, in 1976. from these families. “Crazy, ownership on these city housing very little may exist. During his 2 Danks Street, Waterloo Growing up, his family lived dangerous people that you didn’t estates is often not without other five years working on the project, Tue-Fri, 11am-6pm, Sat 10am-6pm on both the Prospect and want to associate with,” Horan inherent problems stemming from Horan developed friendship, trust Phone 9318 1122 Moyross housing estates in the says. They were Irish gypsies unemployment and poverty, but and respect for these misunderstood www.brendamaygallery.com.au city. He remembers as a child and often known as travellers. Horan wanted to reflect in this project and often marginalised people. This is a Featured Exhibition as part other families who kept horses a more positive side. For many of Most of the riders Horan of the Head On Photo Festival 2014

for seven months and assisted “There tends to be a lot of high- on a couple of “bizarre short stakes filmmaking in Australia,” films” – then to Amsterdam. Dan notes, before adding: “I think “I went for a weekend and being overseas for a while helped stayed for three years. My uncle to give a perspective on what’s lives there and has a gallery there. happening and what’s important. I worked in a youth hostel and In my extended family there are made a few music videos. I was several Aboriginal and Torres-Strait living in a rundown apartment with Islanders – my cousin’s partner intermittent electricity and water.” and kids are TI. I’d really like to In Amsterdam Dan met Toby work on projects that explore the Robinson, son of Michael Robinson, relationships between Indigenous the creator of the Skippy TV series. and non-Indigenous people – the “Tobe was an inspiring person,” broken relationships as well as the Dan recalls. “He really encouraged potential for understanding and me to pursue filmmaking.” for new cultural identities …” A two-year intensive in film His favourite filmmakers are production at Melbourne’s School of committed artists: Jim Jarmusch Audio Engineering (SAE) afforded (“I really like his early stuff – the opportunity for studies in writing, little things, the details, the directing, film history and semiotics. improvisation”) and Wes Anderson “It was a very positive experience. (“the form is accentuated but the The lecturers at SAE were amazing.” human reality is there too”); Ellen While in Berlin for a year – where Kuras (Sunshine of the Spotless Mind) he worked on a few corporate videos and Robbie Mueller (Coffee and Dan Abbot in Redfern Photo: Andrew Collis and enjoyed creative and social life in Cigarettes, Dead Man, Breaking the “fantastic and affordable” city – the Waves). Jean-Luc Godard is a Dan applied, successfully, to AFTRS. long-admired auteur (“New Wave This month sees him involved cinema is anti-Hollywood – it’s in a couple of student film shoots about natural lighting, breaking Regarding light before seeking work (“for six the rules, interesting dialogue”). months at least”) with film crews Sitting outside the Woolpack in and around Sydney. “Hopefully, Hotel in Chalmers Street, Dan An interview with cinematographer Dan Abbot I can get some work as second AC reflects on the “cinematic” inner- [Assistant Camera] with a few city suburb. “There are definitely projects and keep learning from more than a few characters here in Andrew Collis, Danielle Psaros The course at AFTRS is the Having dropped out of uni (a the best cinematographers.” Redfern,” he smiles. When asked & Dominic Abouzeid culmination of several years of course in hotel management on Dan is enthusiastic about if he could imagine a film being study, filmmaking and travel. the Gold Coast), Dan traveled Australian filmmaking and made about his own life, Dan offers Redfern resident “In some ways I just wish I knew to Washington DC where his storytelling. Warwick Thornton a few light-hearted suggestions: Dan Abbot is just weeks what I wanted to do when I was uncle is a documentary filmmaker. (Samson & Delilah, The Sapphires, “Perhaps Jack Black could play my from completing a six-month 19,” Dan says. “But traveling “He makes films for National The Turning) is an inspiring character,” he quips. “Jack Black in post-graduate certificate in and working has given me life Geographic – including war-related screenwriter, cinematographer a serious dramatic role!” And the cinematography with the experience. I’ve loved it. It’s correspondence in Afghanistan,” and director. Cinematographer soundtrack? “Maybe the Flaming Australian Film Television and made me more confident and Dan says. From there Dan moved Peter James (Driving Miss Daisy) Lips … or Sublime … or the Black Radio School at Moore Park. more certain about things.” to Edinburgh – where he lived was a guest lecturer at AFTRS. Eyed Peas … before Fergie …” 14 The Review June ’14 The art of resistance

SSH Hill is renowned for his sharp political commentary. He recently held REDFERN: An art installation at an exhibition of work in the Museum Social-Laneway Espresso condemns of Contemporary Aboriginal Art in the ongoing Stolen Generations. Utrecht (Netherlands). Bomb explored Prominent Aboriginal artist, Blak questions of racism and nationalism in Douglas (aka Adam Hill), launched Australia. the installation to support a National The NDA on May 26 was initiated Day of Action (NDA) on Sorry Day by a group of Grandmothers from (May 26), calling for a stop to the Gunnedah known as Grandmothers unprecedented number of Aboriginal Against Removals (GMAR) with the children being forcibly removed from support of Aboriginal rights groups their families. across the country. A national statement issued to mark The work will be on display for one the occasion says: “More Aboriginal month at the Baru Art Space, right beside children are now being taken away the popular Redfern establishment. than at any previous time in Australia’s Baru Art is an emerging non-profit black and white history – this cannot arts organisation creating opportunities be allowed to continue.” for artists working in the Asia-Pacific “Removals that are happening now region. are no different from those in the 20th The installation is titled, “What’s Up century. Police are regularly sent with DOCS?!”, and depicts an Aboriginal weapons to rip our children away. doll captured in a white hand against the Mothers who fight back are jailed. backdrop of a red and yellow stop sign. Babies are taken from their mothers at Hill says it is a response to a national birth,” the statement continues. campaign calling for the return of “stolen children” and investment in services to Hill’s artwork inspired the national keep Aboriginal families together. poster for the NDA. The artist also In his artist statement, Hill says: “Few has work featured in the Frontier people realise that the removal of Wars group exhibition at Damien Indigenous children from their families Minton Gallery in Elizabeth St, has continued unabated … one in 10 Redfern, until June 7 Indigenous children have been taken see www.damienmintongallery. “What’s Up DOCS?!” by Blak Douglas, Social-Laneway Espresso, Redfern Photo: Andrew Collis from their families in NSW alone.” com.au Word South Sydney Crossword plays Across 1. Gerald or Escort, eg

Have you 3. American or Billy, eg gone from Redfern Park? 7. – Vegas

Left the dogs that try 8. Droop to bite the spouting water 9. Gaia among the high rising lotuses With fair emphasis, winter-hat mindfulness, 12. On the blink the boab tree imported she recounts adventure, with a smile in its trunk pleasure. 14. Opted and a tubby shadow 17. Self or book follower Braving humour, deserted the trembly-footed Tai Chi high, low sun; 18. A/V cables tai chi class her mother’s hammer between the Long Hall in Portland, Oregon ... 19. Green plant? and the Rabbitohs’ pavilion A quest for simplicity, 20. Saturn or Dreamcast, eg the halooing boys astride a zest for gardens, the rusty aircraft gun for compost, signs, CROSSWORD BY D.W. at the western portal, fabrics, electricity – the sad face First correct entry Down of Memory stooped in anger, in love, receives a prize. 1. Yorker's length? over the honour roll in all of us. at the eastern entrance Send to: South Sydney 2. Artifice – Andrew Collis Crossword forgotten the sudden smell 4. Milk request in a cuppa of onion grass PO Box crushed as unaware thighs Hi Cecile, how are you? 3288, Redfern 5. Hauls plump down Won’t you come and visit soon last month's solution NSW 2016 on sandstone benches If it’s true it’s you. 6. Lynch and Croneberg etc

Have you gone? – Adrian Spry 10. Tue. follower Not yet and maybe never. Poems in loving memory of 11. Poison – Cecile Pauly (1951-2013). – Catherine Wood Drawing by Catherine Wood. 13. Cling – 14. Take it on the – WORDPLAY – Creative Writing Group – CLUB REDFERN, 2/159 REDFERN ST 15. Shallowest Great Lake 6-8pm – Weds 18 JUne. Phone Andrew on 8399 3410. All welcome 16. Perth's home of cricket June 2014 COMMUNITY NOTICES 15

Uniting Churches Volunteers’ news Pat Clarke

Hello all volunteers and readers of this column. I’ve been away for some time, living it up as a camper (and no, not even South Sydney Uniting Church close to my favourite 56a Raglan St Waterloo “glamping” under 5 stars) Worship (Eucharist): 10am Sunday from Adelaide, then along the Great Ocean Road Rev Andrew Collis 8399 3410 to Port Melbourne and Welcoming people of all ages, the Spirit of Tasmania to BABANA cultural backgrounds, Devonport. Then it was all the beauty and ruggedness Aboriginal Men’s Group sexual orientations and identities. Songs of freedom of this wonderful island Babana Shed open Mon-Fri Peace with justice, integrity Saturday June 14 join Solidarity Choir (songs of freedom and “at the end of the world”. justice) and Chaika (worldly folk jazz with cinematic classicism) Not forgetting MONA in (72 Renwick St, Redfern) of creation. for a fundraising concert for Oxfam at the Red Rattler, 6 Faversham Street, Marrickville. Starting at 7.30pm. $20 and Hobart, this country’s most Contact: Mark Spinks 0411 282 917 $10 with all profit going to Oxfam. Drinks available at the bar. in-your-face, architecturally Glebe Cafe Church Wheelchair accessible. Children welcome under supervision. stunning gallery, the drama starts when you Cnr St Johns Rd Also on the same day, at 6.30 pm at the Petersham Bowling alight the grey camouflage Club: Launch of a CD called Reclaim Your Voice: Stopping the & Colbourne Ave Glebe ferry and ends with you Punishment of Refugees. It’s necessary to pre book tickets Worship Sun 7pm – contact Andy Busittil at [email protected]. forgetting who you are. ‘Colbourne Ave’ intimate au. All funds raised will go to an organisation providing aid to asylum seekers with a high priority being those on Manus VIVID SYDNEY candlelit concerts Thu 8pm Island, Nauru and Christmas Island. The cost of the concert What can I say – ends Allison Forrest 9518 9413 is $25, which also gives you a CD. Artists include Blindman’s June 9 – absolutely Holiday, Kavisha Mazzella, Peter Miller-Robinson, Christina stunning as always. Don’t Mimmocchi, Ben Scott, Christine Wheeler and many others. forget Martin Place. My Leichhardt University Church favourite: Customs House. 3 Wetherill St, Leichhardt v SYDNEY BIENNALE (near Norton St) Still wowing everyone. Worship 10am & 6.30pm Sunday Get the ferry from Rev. Dr John Hirt 0408 238 117 Wharf 6 to Cockatoo Island. Ends June 9. www.leichhardtuniting.org.au POWERHOUSE MUSEUM THE STRICTLY Newtown Mission BALLROOM STORY 280 King St Newtown Until November 9 Worship 9.30am & 6pm Sunday Love the story, adore the costumes. Cried a lot. This Rev Graeme Tutt Celebrate Sydney’s newest is the exhibition for you. 9519 9000 Personally, I was always cycleway with a Roll through riveted by that scene up Redfern on Saturday June 14. two floors in Marrickville Paddington Uniting Church Road by the Coke ad, trying Rev Ben Gilmour 11am-2pm. FREE. to work out actually where Woolloomooloo to Redfern it was. Fell in love with 395 Oxford St Paddington Bring your bike along to the pop-up bike hub in Prince Alfred Redfern to Broadway Park for a free tune-up, try-a-bike and expert advice. Paul, wanted to be Tara. Church Open 10am-2pm The Village to Village bus is a free hop-on, hop-off service which Enjoy the live music, make a pedal-powered smoothie, or WHO ARE YOU??? 1st and 3rd Saturdays grab a bite to eat from the gourmet food truck. enables residents of the City of Sydney to access local businesses, Readers might recall Worship Sunday 7.30pm hospitals, shopping centres, restaurants and universities. Cruise down the cycleway at your leisure to Green Square some of my columns Office 9331 2646 Markets at Joynton Park. that acknowledged our These FREE buses operate every Thursday and Friday. Collect a stamp at each park for your chance to win great most prolific volunteer prizes, including a bike. distributors. Well, I’m For more information please call: 8241 8000 Pitt Street Uniting Church now on another mission or visit our website: www.villagetovillage.com.au to ask you to give us a Rev Margaret Mayman Like Us. Follow Us. profile of who you are. I’d 264 Pitt St, Sydney Support Red Cross love to talk to you about Worship 10 am Sunday your neighbourhood, your As we approach the end of the financial year Red Cross would & 6 pm (2nd and 4th Sundays) distribution area, anything. like to remind everyone that June is a great opportunity to I’d love a photo for this. Waterloo Office 9267 3614 help those doing it tough at the moment, and also get a tax deduction. You can contact me on Recycling 9560 7162 (message). Workshop The number of people who need help continues to grow each Workshop and market open Fridays 9am-12pm. Wayside Chapel REDWatch year, and Red Cross is finding it more and more difficult to Until next time. Meetings first Thursday Turungah Flats, 1 Phillip St, Waterloo (lower 29 Hughes St Potts Point attract the support it needs to do its vital work. of the month at The Factory car park). Community Centrte. Affordable furniture and household goods. To make a tax-deductible donation by June 30 call 1800 811 Pat Clarke & Ross Smith Worship 10am Phone Geoffrey Turnbull Donations gladly received (no white goods or electrical apps). Rev Graham Long 9358 6996 700, go online or use your smartphone to go to our website [email protected] (02) 8004 1490. at redcross.org.au, or text ‘Help’ to 0448 DONATE (366283). Volunteers welcome Email [email protected] (phone Naomi on 0407 576 098).

YOUR LOCAL MEMBERS

Tanya Plibersek MP Malcolm Turnbull MP Jamie Parker MP Ron Hoenig MP Alex Greenwich Carmel Tebbutt MP Federal Member for Sydney Federal Member for Wentworth State Member for Balmain State Member for Heffron State Member for Sydney State Member for Marrickville 150 Broadway, Broadway Ground Floor, 287-289 New South 112a Glebe Point Rd, Glebe Shop 117, 747 Botany Rd, Rosebery 58 Oxford St, Paddington 244 Illawarra Rd, Marrickville NSW 2007 Head Rd, Edgecliff, NSW 2027 NSW 2037 NSW 2018 NSW 2021 NSW 2204 T: 02 9379 0700 T: 02 9327 3988 T: 02 9660 7586 T: 02 9699 8166 T: 02 9360 3053 T: 02 9558 9000 F: 02 9379 0701 F: 02 9327 2533 F: 02 9660 6112 F: 02 9699 8222 F: 02 9331 6963 F: 02 9558 3653 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] 16 SPORT June 2014 Rebounding Rabbitohs Michael Page standout games, in the season opener against Easts (Sydney City if you prefer) It’s strange to feel empty and and against an in-form Titans a few dissatisfied when your team has just weeks back, Souths have stumbled won a game. It’s even weirder when and fumbled their way through the your team achieves the rare feat of season. Their signature strength, set keeping the opposition scoreless, for completion, has dribbled away with the first time in decades. But that is nearly every player contributing to the exactly the feeling many Souths fans rising error tallies. Luck has shone their had after the Monday night victory way a little, particularly in the Brisbane over Cronulla [May 26]. game where, despite Bryson Goodwin’s brain-exploding quick tap decision, the The lacklustre performance was from steady boot of Adam Reynolds helped right down the bottom of the mixed steer Souths to a fortunate win. bag that Souths have offered for most Not that it’s all been bad news. The of the year. One could possibly blame classy Dylan Walker continues to the inexplicable watering of the ground shine. Confident and skilful he shows (perhaps to encourage a shark or two more and more self-belief each week from nearby Wanda Beach?) but as a and is now taking on the defence on spectacle this was undeniably one of both sides, finding gaps and putting the worst games of the year. A depleted others through. Anyone who sat on Cronulla team, minus Origin stars, as Erskineville Oval Hill on Saturdays well as the injured Fifita and Carney, in March in recent years won’t be should have been easy pickings. surprised at Alex Johnson’s emergence. Despite having Queenslanders (Te’O Classy, quick and intelligent, both he and McQueen) and one New South and Walker know each other’s games Welshman (Kempsey-born Inglis) on well and can quickly revert to their free Origin duty, Souths still had quality, running S.G. Ball combination. These experience and the entire Burgess are a pair of juniors who, as long as family to call on. Yet Souths were dull injury eludes them, Souths can build and predictable for the most part. Their a big future around. bash-’em-and-barge tactics won out in With Isaac Luke injured, Api Korisau the end but, as they found out in the has also grabbed his chance to show his Souths fan Mitchell Chen slays the Dragon in Round 5 Photo: Marianne Perrottet recent Melbourne game, imagination best moves – the dart from dummy half, and unpredictability is required to a deceptive side-step and a capacity to lithe footwork is remarkable and he rate, his scything tackles and hit-ups the ladder. With Isaac Luke and Luke match it against the better teams in back up and support half breaks. And has bamboozled and terrified up the remind Souths fans of what they will Keary set to return from injury, it’s the competition. youngsters Kirisome Auva’a and Kyle middle on a number of occasions this be missing in 2015. quite conceivable – if the coach and Now accustomed to consistency in Turner have shown, to date, they have year. As the old song goes, “You don’t The best news is that it is still early team bring the unforced error rates the first part of the season, Souths fans what it takes at first grade level. know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone”, days and, despite their inconsistency, back to 2013 standards – that Souths have found the patchy form of their George and Sam Burgess have also and while Sam Burgess is still with Souths have chalked up enough wins will be well placed to make a claim for team hard to fathom. Apart from two stood out. For such a big man, George’s us, every week his enormous work to stay well in touch with the top of this year’s big one. S

The Ravens meet each Sunday at 3pm at Redfern Oval (Cnr Phillip & Chalmers Sts in Redfern). Rovers are family New members (and beginners) welcome! Perry Johnstone Phone Adrian on 9690 1427. ALEXANDRIA: As the NRL holds its annual Women in League Round to honour the contributions of women to the game, the Alexandria Rovers are leading the way. This year over a third of the coaching staff comprises RAVENS women. One of our two Under 8 teams has an all-female coaching staff and at the time of writing is deeply entrenched in the top four.

The days of the dads doing the RUNNING coaching and the mums working in the canteen and doing the fundraising are long gone. Head down to Erskineville Oval each Sunday and you will see the dads helping out in the canteen. Women of the Rovers family Photo: Lyn Turnbull GROUP One team official is football champion Eunice Grimes, who is the trainer of the Football is a team game, you can coaching staff for the Sydney club’s Under 11 Division One team. I sat be the best player in the team, but if Indigenous Rugby League Teams this down with her to ask a few questions you have the wrong attitude you won’t year, this must be exciting for you? about her football career. succeed on the field as an individual Yes it is, these young men all have and you won’t succeed as a team on been given a chance to go to the next Eunice, how old were you when you a whole. level, and hopefully I can help them first started playing rugby league? What’s harder, playing in front of and contribute to their development Five years old. 30,000 people or training 17 boys all both on the field as players and off it What has been your highlight so far on aged 10 and 11? as young men growing into adulthood. the field? The boys for sure, especially when Being selected each year for the NSW they don’t listen, they all have ears but So there you have it. Whether Indigenous v All Stars Game. have selective hearing at times. you’re an elite player or a mum or dad Being an elite athlete, how many When you visit schools and community helping out with a team, there is a role training sessions do you do each carnivals what do you tell the young for everyone at a rugby league club. week? girls you talk to about footy? Our organisation is grateful for the I train twice a week with my team, I Enjoy themselves, play Oztag if there contribution that women have made to do a personal session each week with is no footy in their area, join a local club the club and hopefully we will have even a private trainer, plus I do the session and help out, do your league safe course more involved next year, adding to the with the Rovers teams, plus play the and become a trainer with a kids team. legacy and proving we are family. S game each weekend. The main thing is to participate and What advice do you pass onto the kids have fun and lead a healthy lifestyle. Perry Johnstone is Secretary of the in your team? You have been appointed to the Alexandria Rovers Football Club.