Bat’s life! Art Month 2015  FEATURE — page 10  THE REVIEW — pages 11-14 NSW State Election 2015: What you need to know – pgs 6-7

NUMBER one hundred and THIRTY-four march ’15 CIRCULATION 22,000 aLEXANDRIA BEACONSFIELD CHIPPENDALE DARLINGTON ERSKINEVILLE EVELEIGH GLEBE KINGS CROSS NEWTOWN PADDINGTON REDFERN SURRY HILLS WATERLOO WOOLLOOMOOLOO ZETLAND

things that has happened to Kempsey in a long time,” Morris remarked. Continuing the vision of Charles “Charlie” Perkins were 29 current university students and 11 of the original Freedom Riders from 1965. The students were selected by Kyol Blakeney, the new President of the university’s Student Representative Council (SRC) and the first Indigenous person elected to that role. “I was looking for passion … I was looking for diversity,” Blakeney told reporters. He chose a mix of local and international students, some familiar with Indigenous issues and some unfamiliar, in order to maximise the learning experience for all. Blakeney emphasised that “the important thing is to actually sit down and listen to the community and see what they want”. Indeed, student riders Max Hall and Samantha Jonscher discovered that locals “were not only willing but desperate to share their stories”. Auntie May from Moree shared the isolation and disempowerment her people are facing, the lack of amenities and the need for greater respect from the government. Moree has lost its The 2015 Freedom Ride bus departs from Sydney University. “If you have a dream and a vision, make it real, make it a mission” – Roy Ah-See, Deputy Chair, NSW Aboriginal Land Council Photo: Claire Mahjoub drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre due to an apparent funding shortage. Adding to the controversy, Moree Plains Shire Council resisted calls to formally apologise for its segregated Side by side on the Freedom Ride past. In Dubbo, meanwhile, locals like Craig Biles were pushing for greater Vanessa Cartwright “deep south” of the United States. Fewer with protests, including that Aboriginal unlike the original visit to 15-odd emphasis on Aboriginal history and learn that this movement inspired ex-servicemen deserved to join Walgett towns over two weeks, could not culture to rebuild Indigenous morale. At sunrise on Wednesday February similar action in the “deep north” of RSL, racial restrictions at Moree baths prevent the hype on social media. This process, Biles believes, is vital for 18, an excited crowd gathered rural NSW. At midnight on February should be lifted, and Aboriginal locals Continuous updates via the Facebook the youth he works with at the Orana outside the iconic Quadrangle at the 12, 1965, the University of Sydney’s first should not be confined to the front page “Freedom Ride 50th Anniversary” Juvenile Justice Centre. “Until we, as University of Sydney. It was time to Indigenous student, Charles Perkins, of Bowraville Picture Theatre. In an and the Twitter hashtag #freedomride50 Aboriginal people, understand our own revive the legacy of the 1965 Freedom led 28 other student activists on a bus attempt to curb the protests, a driver attracted the attention of thousands of history we don’t have a foundation,” Ride – a student bus tour of country trip to investigate segregation and at Walgett rammed the bus, forcing it Australians. It was heart-warming he stated. NSW that finally made newsworthy racism in rural NSW communities. off the road. These dramatic incidents, to witness the enthusiasm of the Native languages are a flailing the inequalities faced by Aboriginal According to original activists Ann however, only furthered the cause of young and old, the Indigenous and foundation in Walgett, where teachers people. February’s 50th anniversary Curthoys and Brian Aarons, the the riders. As Curthoys and Aarons non-Indigenous alike at the parades, require more resources to sustain local ride saw greater positivity, support non-Indigenous students on the tour stated, media coverage provoked “some forums, barbecues and concerts hosted languages. In Kempsey, employment and community spirit than previous were “shocked” by what they found: serious soul-searching in urban and in the towns of Dubbo, Walgett, Moree for Indigenous people lags behind rides, even as it broadcast the ongoing “Desperately poor living conditions … rural NSW”. and Kempsey. Aboriginal singer Amos improvements in education. The 2015 concerns of Indigenous Australians. white people convinced of their racial The media coverage of the 2015 Morris praised the upbeat vibe at a riders actively documented these superiority, and exclusion of Aboriginal Freedom Ride has likewise been concert featuring music legends Troy and other issues facing Indigenous Many Australians learn about the people from the basic amenities of a thought-provoking. The limitation of Cassar-Daley and Paul Kelly. “It was Australians, such as inequalities 1961 freedom ride movement in the country town.” The students reacted prioritising four towns in four days, amazing … probably one of the best in health and Continued on page 2 November 2014 2 NewsNEWS March 2015

PUBLISHER disrespectfully. If they treat us like South Sydney Uniting Church that, how are they treating vulnerable Side by side Raglan Street, Waterloo homeless people?” The views expressed in this newspaper are Fresh approach to caring for people in need The views expressed in this newspaper are on the those of the author and the article and are not A City of Sydney spokesperson has necessarily the views of the Uniting Church. ANDREW COLLIS responded to questions from the SSH. Freedom Ride “Rough sleepers in Wentworth Park NEWS [email protected] BOTANY: THE Food Distribution were asked to cooperate in keeping Continued from page 1 Phone Lyn 0400 008 338 Network (FDN) held its Annual the park safe and tidy for the public,” mental health, substandard General Meeting on Wednesday ADVERTISING the spokesperson said. “Two fires and housing, bureaucratic barriers to Contact – [email protected] October 29. The guest speaker several hazards, such as cooking in progress and the ongoing desire Phone Julia on 0402 525 061 for the meeting was Kelly Smith, tents, rat infestations and a build-up for Constitutional recognition. “We Nutrition Programs Co-ordinator for MAILING ADDRESS: of furniture, have been reported in the want to expose these issues that are PO Box 3288 Secondbite, with whom FDN shares past six months. still there to mainstream Australia; Redfern NSW 2016 premises in Margate Street, Botany. “The City of Sydney works hard we want to put pressure on the LETTERS to ensure that public space can government to act pretty quickly Please send letters and emails to: The AGM was attended by staff, be accessed and enjoyed safely by on fixing these issues,” stated Kyol The South Sydney Herald. Management Committee members, Email: [email protected] everyone, including people experiencing Blakeney. Email: [email protected] Signs of distress at Wentworth Park Photo: Kat Hines Supply sender name and suburb. clients, volunteers and supporters. homelessness. The City encourages Looking back to 1965, original Size: 150 words or less. All expressed commitment to FDN’s responsible behaviour by all people rider Hall Greenland reflected that We may edit for legal or other reasons. values and objectives – the care and in our public spaces while ensuring “more important than the trip wellbeing of people who are aged that disadvantaged people are not itself was the result of the trip. The FOUNDING EDITOR orRough frail or living with a disability. sleepers claim discriminated against and are treated changing of consciences, the raising Trevor Davies (25.5.1956—14.6.2011) Phyllis Sequeira, FDN President, with compassion and respect. of awareness, the determination spoke of challenges ahead in relation “Following complaints last year about that we had to do something.” torough the National Disability treatment Insurance deliberately lit fires and unauthorised The original riders witnessed the Scheme (NDIS). “We are currently camping at Wentworth Park, the City landmark 1967 referendum, the SSHin the process of completing an down to Wentworth Park to obtain issued warnings to a group of rough invention and dissemination of application for Disability Service firsthand knowledge and let others sleepers about keeping the area tidy. Aboriginal flags, Native Title rulings MMANAGINGanaging EDITOREditor FEATURES EDITOR GLEBE:Standards For Accreditation,” more than she a year, a know about the “shameful way these The City worked with the rough sleepers and other acts of solidarity. The Andrew Collis Dorothy McRae-McMahon communitysaid. “Achievement of homeless of the Homepeople has homeless people are being treated”. to clean up the area and remove some new riders also envisage positive beenAnd Communityliving in tents Care under (HACC) the tramline “These people at Wentworth Park are of the items. outcomes. “This [ride] was not atstandards Wentworth and thePark. Disability Despite Service Council lovely people. We saw elderly people, “Recently, more items have built up a re-enactment, but a revival,” policy,Standards which will refers put us to in working a good with sick people, people with mental health in the area, including over 20 tents, deck tweeted student Aparna Balakumar. theposition homeless to be eligible in a respectful for ongoing and issues. They don’t want to be living in chairs, tables, a barbecue and a fridge. Compiling a report of their compassionategovernment funding, way (via as well a dedicated as aFDN tent Manager but they Peter don’tInce presents have his a reportchoice. to the The AGM Photo:“City Kat Hines staff, along with specialist findings will assist the students to NEWS EDITOR ONLINE EDITOR ensure that we are continually Lyn Turnbull Cate Long homelessness unit and a number of Council wants to put them back on the homeless-service workers, met with the continue advocating for Indigenous servicesreviewing and and outreach improving programs), our the pavement.interaction, Whyinclusion should and a care. council as roughimportantly, sleepers is fullyto negotiate equipped a solution NSWcommunities. produces 800,000 At least tonnes they of will roughsystems sleepers and operational have accused processes the City wealthyWe want as and Sydney hope beto continueso callous to as to toand the able issue to andmeet the the fire stringent risk, with each foodhave waste the each official year ($12support billion of their ofin Slineydney with of bestinsensitive practice.” action. Despite takecontribute away somethingto the community so important well to personrequirements now limiting of the scheme. their belongings It worthuniversity, of waste unlike according the 1965to www. riders. a groundswellUnder the NDIS, of publicclients withsupport to theseinto the people?” future,” Felix Ms Sequeirasaid. said. towill bedding also help and to two place bags. us at the lovefoodhatewaste.nsw.gov.au).The new Freedom Ride Scholarship allowa disability the homeless will be allocated people to keep OnManager Wednesday Peter Ince Februarythanked 11, forefront“The City of like is also services working so that with we the AttendeesFund at the were University encouraged of Sydneyto ASSISTANT EDITOR ASSISTANT EDITOR theirfunding tents packages at the verydirectly, least, and Council Councilvolunteers workers from Redfern arrived (FDN’swith police, roughare the sleepers premier toand connect most attractive them with thinkaccompanies creatively abouta 65 per-cent their use targeted of Louisa Dyce Vanessa Cartwright workersorganisations have like impounded FDN will thehave tents, andformer according premises) to andwitnesses, Botany. accused thechoice appropriate for all clients services to receive and look at theincrease fruit and in vegies Indigenous in a typical students box by alongto compete with otherto provide items. services. members“To those whoof the did community come over of theft waystheir freshthey can produce,” access accommodation.he said. from2016. FDN. Deputy Suggestions Vice-Chancellor included Shane “We understand that transitional and illegalto the substancenew recruits possession. who have Police “TheOne clientCity has made committed particular $4.2 million salads,Houston, sandwiches, himself roasts, an Indigenous stir fries, funding“The people will be here available are living to us in until fear,” thenjoined searched our ranks through this year belongings I say and overmention the nextof FDN’s three revamped years to help fund soupsAustralian, and smoothies. is striving Ms Smithto improve saidJune Aunty2016,” MsJanet Sequeira Bowman. said. “We are impoundedthank you for various your dedication items. Several and outreachbi-monthly services, newsletter support which for features young assuredstudents’ the meetingcultural thatcompetency fruit and and hereThe because FDN Management we’re homeless and just peoplecommitment expressed to our anxiety wonderful about the people,good nutritional and Connect advice, 100, interesting which will vegiesto address could be institutional stored safely racism. for His PHOTO EDITOR SUB EDITOR wantCommittee to be treated has been as humans,exploring not like process.cause,” he “Because said. “It was of importantthe housing provideand easy housing to prepare for people recipes, experiencing an manydefinition days, “brown of equality spots” is removed insightful Claire Mahjoub Miriam Pepper animals.various marketing A tent gives initiatives, us some dignity, shortage,to retain we’vethe current had to clienthouse numbersourselves,” homelessnessabsorbing quiz in and the “excellentinner city.” jokes”. as necessary,for many human and “limp” rights vegies issues: “It’s astarted place toto identify have some alternative privacy, some oneand personto increase affected our by clientele the police over action TheGuest spokesperson speaker Kelly affirmed Smith that the usednot to about make being soup the or freshened-upsame, but about DISTRIBUTION protectionfunding sources from the and elements.” partnerships said.the autumn “They’re and expecting winter months. us to live like Cityhighlighted supports the the shared NSW valuesgovernment’s in ahaving bowl ofthe cold right water. to be “Fruits different and and Ross Smith Ross Smith and“We has visited commenced the homeless applying forpeople dogsThis hasbut forgotbeen achieved to bring usthrough a bowl!” Protocoland concerns for People of the partnerin Public Places, vegetablesnot suffer won’t any everdisadvantage.” make you sick This [email protected] community grants. An updated mailbox drops and liaising with organisations. Secondbite and FDN unless they’re mouldy,” she said. DESIGNER at Wentworth Park back in early “To take away from people who have which promotes the rights of people was the vision set in motion by the DESIGNER three-year Strategic Plan has been external agencies … FDN currently are committed to providing a healthy The AGM concluded with Robert Young February,” said Felix, a young person so little is a shameful thing to do,” said who are experiencing homelessness to freedom riders. Despite the long www.theloop.com.au/rdfy whopublished regularly at www.fdn.org. comes down from Aboriginalservices in excess performer of 270 Radical clients.” Son. accessvariety public of fruit spaces and vegetableswithout the to risk of refreshments,road ahead tea to and improve coffee. the livesS PRINTER Blackheath“Feedback to fromsupport our homeless clients people “I triedMr Ince, to attend too, spoke a gathering about theof people discrimination.those in need. Both see the value of of Indigenous Australians, Kyol Spotpress Pty Ltd aroundindicates the that inner they city. continue He was to shocked find organisedonset of the by NDIS. the City “This of shouldSydney be with homeItems visits gathered and social by interaction City staff for in For Blakeneymore information dreams or that enquiries “one dayabout we www.spotpress.com toour hear offering that the unique tents andwere valuable under threat to somea conduit friends for makingto express sure our that concerns the Wentworththose with mobilityPark are or being other stored issues. at a sponsorshipwon’t need and a volunteeringfreedom ride contact – it’ll just oftheir being diet, taken overall away. health He decided and social to come andorganisation we were isdenied ready entry and, andmore treated CouncilBoth seek depot to reduce for collection. food waste. S Peterbe Ince:a ride”. [email protected] S REGULAR CONTRIBUTORS “We gratefully acknowledge the many volunteer contributors and distributors who make this publication possible.” Kieran Adair Isabel McIntosh Adra Anthoney Christine Morrow Alice Appel Sarah Mulholland Jack Butler Lucy Munro Do you have loose, ill-fitting, Olivia Nigro Laura Buzo Olivia Nigro Anne Camac Michael Page Anne Camac Victoria Pearson Joe Castley Victoria Pearson ugly looking dentures? Joe Castley Elaine Pelot-Syron Liesa Clague Elaine Pelot-Syron Liesa Clague Miriam Pepper Samuel Clark Samuel Clark Jesse Peters Lindsay Cohen Ada Qian Isabella Dinhvu Michael Shreenan Georgia Flynn Catherine Skipper Jemima Hall Gai Smith Misa Han Andrea Srisurapon Kat Hines Rowan Taylor Libby Hogan Kate Texilake Michael Texilake Liz Hughes Michael Texilake Geoff Turnbull Lyndal Irons Geoff Turnbull Charles Turnbull Brittany Johnson Marg Vazey Perry Johnstone Chelsea Wallis Kelly Lane Chelsea Wallis Kelly Lane Angelique Watkins Ada Lee Ada Lee Vanessa Watson Qinling Li Peter Whitehead norrie mAy-welby Henry Whittaker Julie McCrossin Kate Williamson Caitlin McDonald Catherine Wood

DISTRIBUTORS Georgina Abraham Julie McCrossin John Berry Rohan MacDonald Then call us on 8399-3661 Eleanor Bousted norrie mAy-welby Mark Bridget Marry Ellen McCue Gabrielle Brine Matt McLennan Barrie McMahon We can help you Sam Choy Barrie McMahon Mark McPherson Michael Condon Mark McPherson Dorothy McRae-McMahon Yvonne Cowell Dorothy McRae-McMahon Jane Morro Alice Crawford Jane Morro Margaret Neale Sue Dahl Margaret Neale Jim Patsouris Peter Dodds Pepsee TJ Eckleberg David Polkington Food Distribution Network Heather Robinson Melissa Gibson Lincoln Sharp Perry Johnstone Lincoln Sharp Perry Johnstone Colin Sharp Anne Jordan Anne Jordan Ross Smith Desley Haas Desley Haas Adrian Spry Gabriel Haslam Tony Steele Rod Haslam Lani Tuitavake Jennifer Jungheim Alexander Turnbull Anthony Kable Margaret Vazey Susan Kable Brian Vazey Shop 2, 138-142 Botany Rd, Alexandria, nsw 2015 • T 02 8499 3661 Jennifer Laffan Jennifer Laffan Rosie Wagstaff [email protected] • www.densindente.com.au John Lanzky Naomi Ward Kyran Lynch Peter Whitehead March 2015 News 3

The youth of today School of interfaith relationships

Ibrahim Sakar I respect Australia a lot, I am they were telling us “Why are you proud to say that this is my country. here? This is not where you belong.” My name is Ibrahim Sakar. As I have been taking a lot from Now I know that not all religions or I am a Muslim, Lebanese and an Australia, I wish that someday I people who are not Muslims think Australian. I am 14 years of age, could repay it. Sheikh Ahmed told a about Muslims in a bad way, it is I like communicating with people, story about when he was in Year 8 only some people. I realised that debating and public speaking, but he got bullied and one day when he religious leaders from other religions not in front of a lot of people, but was walking home a group of bullies respected Islam as if it was their own I am excited about the challenge started following him and saying religion and they were not trying of speaking to you tonight. that he would not reach home. They to change or mock your beliefs. were threatening him. His sister I hope that one day we will have Last week [early February 2015] saw this as she was going past so another course with these people I participated in a Together for she took him by his hand and took as I learned many things from them Humanity interfaith program at him home. Sheikh Ahmed’s parents and I like to talk with experienced my school, Punchbowl Boys High said that they should report it to the people as I learn new things. School. This program was led by local police station as it was getting Over these two days, we learned Rabbi Zalman Kastel; Sheikh Ahmad out of hand. That day they reported about respect, communication, we Abdo; Taha Allam, an ex-student it. After many years, he told us that had inspiration and I benefited in of my school; and Christian on Thursday last week he was going this course by knowing what I want Pastor Greg Lake, who used to to become a Police Commissioned to do in my life and how to treat be a manager of the Christmas Officer. He is very proud of himself other people. S Island refugee detention centre. because he is repaying his country When Greg told us about a young and the police for what they did for Ibrahim Sakar was speaking at a boy who lost his family and came him when he was much younger. Together for Humanity dinner held at to Christmas Island as an asylum In the program last week I learned the Sapphire Function Centre in Auburn. seeker, I got a tear in my eye. I about how Judaism, Christianity and www.togetherforhumanity.org.au was trying to think what that boy Islam have stuff in common. Like went through and couldn’t imagine the Jews have the prophet Ibrahim myself in his situation. After hearing as well as Islam. Christianity Youth of today, a regular article a lot of stories from Greg about believes in Jesus and in Islam he is a on local youth and related refugees and kids risking their prophet. Before I participated in the issues, is kindly sponsored by lives to enter this country for a new program, I thought that all religions Appetite Cafe chance at life, I started thinking hated Islam. I hated it when I used to and thanking God that I was born go into the city with my family, and Appetite Cafe in this country and that my family my mother is scarved, people would APPETITE cafe : redfern 82 Regent St, Redfern ood and I didn’t need to risk our lives give us “dirties”, that is dirty looks, + eople Tel 9699 4069 Ibrahim Sakar Photos: Supplied to enter this beautiful country. from their body language I inferred

RED CROSS CALLING SYDNEY GIRLS HIGH CBD STREET COLLECTION Sydney Girls High Year 10 students The involvement of schools, like have chosen to support the work of Sydney Girls High, helps to introduce a Red Cross this year by organising a whole new generation to the work of street collection for Red Cross Calling Red Cross. in the Sydney CBD on Friday March 13. Red Cross is already well known for its Just like the thousands of Red Cross highly respected Blood Service but it volunteers who worked so hard to also helps reconnect families torn apart support Red Cross in Sydney during the by war and assists older Australians to war and depression years, Red Cross live independently in their own homes volunteers still continue to care for those around Surry Hills, Glebe and Redfern. who need it most. The Sydney Girls High Last year Red Cross assisted more than students will gather in Martin Place 56,000 people affected by disasters and before heading out across the inner served over 800,000 meals to school city to shake their collection tins. children who might otherwise have gone Red Cross Calling is one of the major to school hungry. annual fundraising appeals for Red Cross The Red Cross Young Parents Program in to support its everyday work, such Randwick helps young people cope with as bushfire relief and recovery in the the daily challenges of being new mums Blue Mountains. and dads.

To organise a community event for Red Cross Calling go to redcrosscalling.org.au or phone 1800 008 831 4 News March 2015 DNA backcapture in focus

Ella Semega-Janneh investigation. There is simply the power to do so, and it is being used. A NSW Police DNA backcapture scheme has Our clients do not see this as fair. Before having attracted increasing interest in the news recently. received individual advice, many clients have been intent on refusing the procedure, regardless Redfern Legal Centre (RLC) has experienced of whether there is a court order. Refusing a a spike in people contacting us for advice about court order is itself a criminal offence, carrying a DNA collection by NSW Police, a scheme known maximum penalty of 12 months imprisonment. as DNA “backcapture”. These are not people who The backcapture scheme favours statistics and are the target of a police investigation. Some of charge rates over rehabilitation or crime prevention, them have not had contact with the police for by bringing people under police attention despite many years, but they have all had police arrive years of good behaviour. These years of good on their doorstep, with a collection kit and a letter behaviour point to another trap in the current (not a court order). backcapture program – spent convictions. The Each of these clients has previously been to gaol form letter handed out by police when they arrive for an offence with a maximum penalty of at least at people’s doors will often refer to a sentence of five years, but none of our clients had served a imprisonment imposed more than 10 years ago. sentence of that length. After release, each client Sometimes this sentence of imprisonment will be had been prosecuted for another offence, although for a short period – perhaps maybe only a matter some successfully defended the later charge. of weeks. However, depending on subsequent The two instances of imprisonment and convictions, the Criminal Records Act prevents a subsequent prosecution, plus their absence from sentence that old being used as a basis for DNA the DNA database, is enough to qualify them as backcapture. The Criminal Records Act recognises “untested former offenders” under NSW legislation. the value of rehabilitation, but the NSW Police This essentially means that if police seek a court Force DNA backcapture program does not. order for their DNA they can succeed. RLC has represented a man who could not legally There is renewed effort from NSW Police to have his DNA taken, but the police had not noticed do a complete backcapture of all untested former the application was unlawful. The only thing that offenders in NSW. The efficiency of this process stopped the unlawful taking of this man’s DNA is debatable. Backcapture is not so much about was that he said “No” when the police came to looking for needles in a haystack as it is about his door, and approached RLC for legal advice. collecting hay to make a stack. Please contact the Centre if you would like The CMEO building in a state of disrepair Photo: Lyn Turnbull RLC recognises that DNA evidence can be assistance in relation to this area. S very helpful in turning police investigations into successful prosecutions, but backcapture is now Redfern Legal Centre: 73 Pitt Street, Redfern being carried out where there is no suspicion or Phone 9698 7277. www.rlc.org.au Rescuing railway heritage SSH important reminders of the State’s railway history, and were impatient for something Report critical of ATP sale DARLINGTON: Concerned residents of to be done to halt further deterioration. Wilson Street have formed an action Deterioration of the CMEO and Scientific Lyn Turnbull The importance of public and community group (Residents for CMEO Rescue) to Services buildings has occurred over access, including pedestrian and cycle links to highlight the deteriorating condition several decades whilst successive state When the NSW government announced the sale Redfern station is recognised. The report calls for of two State heritage listed buildings, governments were deliberating on the future of the Australian Technology Park in December, the exclusion of open space from any portion of the Chief Mechanical Engineer’s Office of the North Eveleigh site. The action group the City of Sydney responded to the call from the site for sale, with its retention in government building (CMEO) and the Scientific Services acknowledges that UrbanGrowth NSW has community groups for a review of the risks and ownership, including possible dedication to the building, at 505 and 503 Wilson Street been in charge of the City Connect-Central benefits of the sale. City of Sydney. respectively. UrbanGrowth NSW is currently to Eveleigh project for a relatively short Part of the Eveleigh to Central project includes responsible for maintenance, conservation time. However, decisions regarding the The report, which was presented to Council the upgrade of Redfern station. The report identifies and adaptive reuse of both buildings. future of these two heritage buildings could on February 23, raises major concerns about the that the sale of the site may hinder capacity for it to easily be determined well in advance of the tendering process in light of the added density contribute to future public transport interchange An article in the SSH (March 2013) discussed remaining Central to Eveleigh site without proposed in the Central to Eveleigh project. It and access improvements around Redfern station. the historical significance of the CMEO compromising the planning of that site. suggests greater transparency with input from the The proposed sale process may result in building and described the maintenance The group is encouraging concerned community, City of Sydney, Transport for NSW and development inconsistent with ATP’s established work so far undertaken by UrbanGrowth residents to utilise the online instrument other government organisations to give priority to planning controls, master plan and vision for the NSW. The action group considers that the provided by UrbanGrowth NSW (http://bit. public interest, access, quality design and heritage, adaptive reuse of buildings on the site. current piecemeal approach to maintaining ly/1G80jiJ) and nominate the conservation and calls for funds raised to be reinvested into Development for alternative uses could lead to both buildings is unsatisfactory and that and the adaptive reuse of these two buildings public facilities within the corridor. the loss of a critical mass of technology businesses it should be ongoing in conjunction with as a “quick win project”. The action group As a sale to a private owner would no longer and incubator space that has assisted new local preparation of a Conservation Plan to guide will be circulating a petition to be forwarded require the retention of a Section 170 Heritage and businesses. the future adaptive reuse of the buildings. to UrbanGrowth NSW urging prompt Conservation Register, there could be damage to The report also identifies that sustainability During discussions with Darlington action and ongoing consultation with the the significant heritage value of the site. The report should underpin further development on the site, residents, the action group found a Darlington community. S recommends that heritage buildings and assets be especially features that are difficult to provide on common reaction to be an appreciation excluded from sale and be retained in government smaller sites such as co-generation of energy, waste of the buildings’ heritage significance. The consultation deadline has been extended to March 16. ownership with public access. water recycling and solar lighting. S Residents believed the buildings to be Residents for CMEO Rescue: [email protected]

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS ‘Do you hear what I hear?’

Anne Camac & Laura Buzo can be associated with the most while you have a shock-jock of your misery. Voices can also be reduced severe forms of mental illness. blaring in your ears through You’re a terrible mother. or made more manageable “Harry, even in the wizarding Sometimes it happens when you two headphones. Have you Everyone knows you’re a liar. through cognitive behaviour world, hearing voices is a are going off to sleep or when ever seen a person having a Everyone knows what therapy-style techniques. bad sign,” remarks Hermione you are waking up. It can also be long, fraught argument with you’ve done. If you’re a voice-hearer and Granger to Harry in Harry a normal part of some people’s seemingly no-one? Imagine They’re all talking about you. it doesn’t upset you or affect Potter and the Chamber of identity, something they just what awful things are being They’ve poisoned your your functioning, then there’s Secrets. She and Ron counsel get used to and even enjoy – if said by these voices to make food. Don’t eat it. no need to have treatment. You Harry against telling his the voices are not derogatory someone shout back like might be surprised to know teachers that he has been or overpowering. In some that. The kinds of auditory How stressful to hear this how many other people hear hearing a terrifying voice that cultures, hearing the voices of hallucinations that are kind of thing all the time. voices. There’s even a national no-one else can hear. Imagine deceased loved ones, ancestors associated with mental illness Voices can go hand in hand network of people who hear hearing someone talking to or spirit guides is a normal, even are usually derogatory in with a more general pattern voices (Hearing Voices Network you but there is actually no one desired experience. In western nature, throwing at you the of paranoid thinking. They Australia, www.hvna.net.au). S there. Imagine hearing music cultures, however, it is not very things you hate about can also occur in some but there is none playing. usually a sign of good health. yourself, the things you fear: dementias or severe forms of Between them, Anne and Laura have To get an idea of how depression. If hearing voices over 30 years of experience as mental The technical term for this distracting it can be to have You’re useless, a waste of space! is part of a mental illness, health professionals. That said, this experience is “auditory these hallucinations, try having They’d be better off without you. it is best to have treatment, column is not intended to replace hallucination”. In some cases, it a conversation with someone Just put yourself out which may include medication. professional advice when it is needed. March 2015 News 5 A lex Park – proud past, exciting future

education a strong academic focus for all program is quite different to of its students. Principal Diane most other schools. Languages, Tim Ayres Fetherston emphasises the role of Sydney History, “Myth-Busters” focussing high school resources Science, Band, Exotic Sports, Myuran Sukumaran Aarlex nd Ia Park Community on Year 7 students in delivering Student Leadership and Service School, or Alex Park to its friends, is strong outcomes in later years. and a full range of extra-curricular a sprawling dual campus centre of Ms Fetherston has already made programs are taught by teachers and Andrew Chan community and learning excellence a significant impact on the school, and accredited members of the close to the heart of Sydney’s inner bringing together the school’s rich community to students on Tuesday About 3,800 years ago, the Stele of Hammurabi suburbs. The school offers places to tradition as a community school afternoons. Students choose on the students from Kindergarten through with a determination to continue basis of their own interests, and was erected in Babylon. It was the first written to Year 12 and has an academic building upon its growing reputation classes are composed of students codification of law and it includes a section that selective stream offered to students for educational excellence. from across the year groups in in Years 7-12 and an Opportunity One of the innovative features of the high school – so it is a terrific says: ‘If a man destroy the eye of another man, Class for students in Years 5 and 6. the school of real benefit to students opportunity to work together across commencing high school is its Junior the grades on interesting projects. they shall destroy his eye. If one break a man’s This is a school that has a proud (Kindergarten to Year 4), Middle The program has measurably bone, they shall break his bone.’ That is the basic past and an exciting future, but (Years 5-7) and Senior (Years 8-12) assisted in lifting attendance, it is its recent achievements and school structure. While the whole engagement and learning. ‘eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth’ law which for optimistic approach that recommend school comes together, Kindergarten Alexandria Park Community it to local parents. Alexandria Park to Year 12, for assemblies, School has a proud past, a dynamic many thousands of years influenced legal systems Community School received the celebrations, community and sport present and exciting future. Its around the world. Director General’s Award in 2013 activities, this structure allows for a vision is that all students will for “improving student learning very different approach to preparing achieve an inspiring future through outcomes”. This is a significant current Year 5 and 6 students for high continuous and uninterrupted We have moved on a great deal since then. achievement signalling that the school and smoothing the pathway quality educational opportunities When Prime Minister Gough Whitlam abolished Alex Park students, across the for entering Year 7 students. Year 7 provided from Kindergarten to Year diverse range of learners, all have students have a common classroom, 12. These experiences allow students the death penalty at federal level he said: “Capital the opportunity to grow and achieve are taught by a small number of high to learn, lead and succeed. S their personal best in their studies. school teachers, and are effectively punishment is just as barbaric and inexcusable in the Students who do well enough the senior students in the Middle Tim Ayres is a parent of a hands of States as it is in the hands of individuals.” in the selective schools test may School. This strong and connected prospective student at Alexandria be offered a place in Alex Park’s learning and wellbeing focus is Park Community School. For more selective streams entering in critical in the first year of high school. information about enrolments and Our opposition to the death penalty is based on Years 5 and 7, but the school has The school’s extra-curricular programs phone 9698 1967. that simple respect for the value of human life and a rejection of that code of thousands of years: an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. This belief is a moral one. It is a belief that all people, all humans, have inherent dignity and rights simply by virtue of being human.

It’s an acknowledgement too that the death penalty is no greater deterrent than gaol, and that if a mistake is made, and an innocent person is killed, there is no recourse.

Andrew Chan and Myuran Sukumaran have done the wrong thing and they should be punished. Australia respects Indonesia’s laws. But we say the death penalty is always wrong, wherever it occurs and whoever is being punished.

As I write this, Mr Chan and Mr Sukumaran have had their final legal appeal rejected.

Yeshua (Hillsong City Care) and Jackson play Giant Jenga Photo: Andrew Collis Indonesia argues for clemency for its own people on death row overseas. This argument is weakened Sunshine on Waterloo Green by Indonesia’s use of the death penalty. Laura Kelly O’Drama our fantastic host, vocals by green spaces – grassroots community It also weakens the story of the possibility of reform. Mick on Wheels, Waterloo-born legally celebration led by the community. Mr Chan and Mr Sukumaran have, by all accounts, Alexandria: Friday February 6 blind rap artist LISTIC (Life Is Short We would like to thank our sponsors marked the eighth Summer on the Time Is Constant), and the fantastic who make this event possible through reformed and rehabilitated themselves. Both have Green, after bad weather back in Jess Beck Band. their small grants schemes and kind D ecember forced its postponement. We were overjoyed with a turnout of donations: Family and Community demonstrated genuine remorse. They could spend The Factory Community Centre approximately 650 local residents who Services, particularly Housing NSW the rest of their lives helping to reform others. founded Summer on the Green, under joined in a wide range of activities and Ageing Disability and Home Care, the leadership of Michael Shreenan throughout the afternoon – Screamer and Clubs NSW, the City of Sydney for our Executive Officer, and remains the Waterslide, Inflatable Sports Arena, providing a fantastic barbecue, and I hope they will have that opportunity. proud lead agency. For the past five Glitter Tattoos, Reptile Show, Giant Eat Drink Give for their yummy and years the organisation of this event Jenga, an ice-cream truck and coffee healthy treats giveaway. We would Tanya Plibersek has been overseen by the Redfern and cart, barbecue, and over 15 local also like to thank local organisations: Waterloo Neighbourhood Advisory support services offering information South Sydney Community Aid, Connect Board Events Group, which is made and advice. Redfern, Hillsong City Care, and the up of local agencies and Housing NSW The annual event was successful Family Referral Service for their tenant representatives. in bringing together the broad contributions of children’s activities spectrum of Social Housing tenants on the day. S Celebrating International Day of living in Waterloo, embracing our People with Disability we welcomed rich diversity while promoting social Laura Kelly is a Community Development a wealth of Sydney’s local talent: Mel inclusion, community pride and local Worker at The Factory Community Centre. 6 nsw election 2015 March 2015 NSW DECIDES ON MARCH 28 – YOUR ELECTORATE

concerns about the availability of This $15 billion project won’t solve spaces in local schools for their Sydney’s transport problems but will children. Cuts to public health chew up parklands and add an extra are being felt by the community. 100,000 cars a day to local roads. Waiting times in the emergency The Greens are the only party in department of public hospitals Heffron to stand with the community including the Prince of Wales to oppose Westconnex and divert Hospital are steadily increasing, and funding to real public transport our ambulances are bottlenecked solutions.” Faruqi also wants more waiting to offload patients. investment in public housing to “Green Square is located at the improve housing affordability as heart of Heffron and is also going well as investment in social services through a process of transition. and infrastructure to meet the Undertaking infrastructure works demands of a growing population. should be guided by an overarching Privatisation of public assets is vision and planning should be another key issue for the Greens. done in consultation with the local Faruqi cited the government’s community. This process should UrbanGrowth Development be transparent so residents are Corporation announcement in able to voice their concerns. If December to sell the Australian John Koutsoukis Osman Faruqi Ron Hoenig the Baird government really did Technology Park. “The desires of care for the residents of Zetland, private developers have trumped Waterloo and Alexandria, it would the needs and concerns of the local have implemented a comprehensive community. To ensure the vibrancy community consultation process and liveability of the electorate we Heffron – changes and challenges before undertaking infrastructure need serious investment in public works, or approving medium to housing, public transport, health Samuel Clark with Ben Aveling contest between Labor, the Greens, an integrated transport strategy, high density developments.” and education services. We need & others Australian Democrats and Christian such measures may also create Osman Faruqi (Greens) is the to make sure the area is affordable Democrats. Hoenig is recontesting the other bottlenecks in the local public son of Dr Mehreen Faruqi, who ran for workers, students and families Heffron is considered to be a seat for Labor, Telecommunications transport system. Residents are telling as a candidate for Heffron in both and we need to ensure that children safe seat for Labor but is changing Engineer John Koutsoukis is me that the South East Light Rail 2011 and 2012, and then became growing up in the area will be able rapidly, particularly in areas like standing for the Liberals and the should travel to Maroubra Junction. the first Muslim woman to enter an to go to school nearby. The Greens Alexandria, Zetland and Mascot. Greens candidate is Osman Faruqi. “Overdevelopment and traffic Australian parliament when she filled are committed to expanding local The current sitting member, Ron Like other parts of Sydney, Heffron congestion are certainly the more a casual vacancy for the Greens in public transport services and this Hoenig, won 58 per cent of the “is undergoing a transformation,” visible issues affecting Heffron the NSW Upper House in 2013. Mr includes increasing bus services, primary vote in a by-election in says Mr Hoenig. “The industrial sites residents. These issues stem from Faruqi says both Labor and Liberal buying back the Airport Line, and 2012, securing the seat on first of Zetland, Waterloo and Rosebery the Baird government’s failure to state governments have treated reducing fares as well as constructing preferences. Hoenig was the former are gradually making way for provide comprehensive planning Heffron like a developers’ paradise. a new light rail line connecting Mayor of Botany and is currently medium- to high-density residential policies combined with their failure “The Westconnex motorway is Alexandria, Zetland, Green Square Opposition Spokesperson for both developments and this is affecting the to provide an integrated transport a key issue for Heffron, with the and Waterloo to the CBD.” Emergency Services and Heritage. amenities of local roads and access to strategy. Buses are over-crowded, NSW government racing ahead Liberal candidate John Koutsoukis public transport. While investment particularly during the peak periods, to fast-track construction of the says the important issues for Heffron The Liberal Party chose not to run a for more buses and the installation of and young couples who have recently first stage by 2019 without any are essential services such as health, candidate in 2012, leaving a four-way light rail are always welcome, without moved into the area are raising environmental impact assessment. transport and education. S

“It is a clear example of what is major parties to try and get change, wrong with the state of NSW and or do you think change can actually what we are doing in relation to happen within parties that seek to planning issues. The same week that form government? I think that’s the they ran a community consultation big difference between me and the on the Central to Eveleigh community Greens. If I’m elected I’ll be a senior plan they also announced that minister in a Labor government they were putting the Australian or opposition. I’ll be an influential Technology Park up for sale, which is member and be able to shape the a key part of that site and that plan,” politics either in government, or Leong explained. in opposition, seeking to form “The best way to step up to that is government in the future. For me, through a strong opposition. A real that’s why I’m in the Labor [party]. I opposition that stands up against think that change happens through privatisation stands up against the government and I believe that that is sell-off of infrastructure and against where it’s delivered and that’s what the cuts to public services, but also I want to be part of and bring our isn’t willing to compromise when community into that discussion and it comes to discrimination, when it be well represented.” Penny Sharpe Jenny Leong Rachael Wheldall comes to the interests of those in the However, Leong cites Clover Moore parliament who might have much as an example of an individual who more conservative views than the was a voice in parliament and set people of Newtown have.” an agenda to bring about change, Sharpe, however, is a bit more open standing up for the community. The new seat of Newtown to the Central to Eveleigh project “People are voting for someone that but is still concerned about how it will sit in that NSW parliament and Samuel Clark with Ben Aveling campaign trail since last March. in the form of the Central to will be implemented. “For me, in will represent and vote for the views & o t h e r s Rachael Wheldall was announced Eveleigh project and the Westconnex terms of representing the community that represent and reflect the people as the Liberal candidate in February motorway. Leong warns that the in these areas, I don’t think we of Newtown. They are not voting for This state election will be the this year. impact of these developments will can support development without a representative that will advocate first to feature the newly created Jenny Leong is a former human have a lasting impact: “These proper community consultation. I’m and lobby internally behind closed electorate of Newtown. The new rights campaigner for Amnesty developments will change what this not against development but I am doors for their positions in cabinet seat is mainly composed of the International who has previously run area looks like forever.” against development that is not done or a Labor faction room. The reality eastern part of the abolished seat for Heffron and the federal seat of The proposed motorway has properly and that doesn’t have proper is they are making a decision on of Marrickville, and also includes Sydney. enraged both the Greens and Labor community consultation.” who will represent their progressive parts of Lewisham, Petersham, Penny Sharpe is attempting candidates. Sharpe claims that the “Central to Eveleigh is a huge views in parliament, and I believe Stanmore, Enmore, Camperdown, to make the transition into the impact “will destroy our local area opportunity to do some interesting the Greens’ values and principles Newtown, Erskineville, Darlington Legislative Assembly from her for no benefit whatsoever. I think that things with some really good design. align very closely with many of the and North Eveleigh as well as the current position as a Member of the the plans for what they are proposing I’d like to see affordable housing. people’s values in the Newtown northern part of Heffron including Legislative Council, where she is the in this area are a disaster. The idea I’d like to see public space. I want community,” she explained. South Eveleigh, Redfern and parts Shadow Minister for Transport. that we are just going to bring traffic to see walkways. I want to see it as “One of the reasons why I have of Waterloo and the southern part Rachael Wheldall has worked in here and dump it at the end of an opportunity to deliver something such concern about the Labor party of the Sydney electorate south at the University of Sydney and Sydney Park and that is going to really beautiful, sustainable and saying one thing when they are in of Central Station that includes volunteers with the Sydney City fix any problems I don’t think will liveable, and I just don’t see that opposition and doing another is the Chippendale and part of Surry Hills. Rotaract. Unfortunately she was work.” [happening] at the moment.” fact that when they had the chance to unavailable to be contacted in time The handling of the Central to For Sharpe the difference between introduce a National Human Rights The seat is expected to be a for publication. Eveleigh project has come under her and Leong comes down to a Act, which would have protected the two-horse race between the Greens’ Development has been one of the fire from both candidates, who fundamental question. “I think the most vulnerable in our community, Jenny Leong and Labor’s Penny dominant issues in the campaign so criticise the government’s community real question is: Can one person they chose to move on to a different Sharpe, who have each been on the far, with plenty of action happening consultation process. really be a lobbyist to reach the political platform.” S March 2015 nsw election 2015 7 NSW DECIDES ON MARCH 28 – YOUR ELECTORATE

from discrimination or unfair public housing at Millers Point is treatment, including LGBTI people, disheartening for those who have women, migrants, refugees and long called it home, and greater older people seeking a job. consultation is needed for projects “We also need to take strong like Barangaroo Point. The Greens action on climate change. We need want a new high school for inner- to reduce emissions and ensure we city Sydney, incorporating the old have a sustainable transport system sandstone buildings in Bridge Road that gives most people alternatives to rather than the government’s preferred using their cars. Inner city residents site in Cleveland Street, and more have to deal with the serious impact investment in renewable energy with of noise, air pollution, traffic and a target of 100 per-cent renewable by redevelopment projects. We need to 2030 using wind and solar farms. make sure that residents’ amenity Labor’s Edwina Lloyd says she is protected while not destroying has been fighting alongside the the things that make the inner community to save Millers Point city a great place to live. Animal and the only hope now is a change welfare is also important to many of government. She says the cost of constituents who want support for living in the inner city is a major companion animals, oppose animal challenge. “Housing costs in Sydney Alex Greenwich Patrice PANDELEOS Chris Bentin Edwina Lloyd cruelty and want reform of factory are rising faster than incomes and a farming.” Another area of concern lack of affordable housing is hurting for Greenwich is the government many people. I support public reducing open green space. “We must housing, not only because of the need protect the parklands and open space for affordable housing in the inner Sydney – inner-city diversity because it won’t ever be replaced.” city but because a good, vibrant social The Greens’ Chris Bentin is also mix of people in a community benefits Samuel Clark with Ben Aveling supports The Rocks-Millers Point- get developers to make sure low-cost passionate about environmental everybody. We should be supporting & o t h e r s Dawes Point community. “We’ve had housing is part of every development. protection and equality for everyone. people out of homelessness and major demographic changes with Barangaroo must significantly Bentin has worked in the disability ensuring that housing is accessible Sydney is currently held by many families and children now living increase the amount of inner-city sector, assisted people living with and affordable for everyone.” As Independent Alex Greenwich, who in the inner city. Childcare and schools affordable housing and provide new AIDS/HIV and provided counselling a criminal lawyer, Lloyd says she won the seat in 2012 after a by-election are big concerns for many people. education, childcare, transport and and support for ACON’s Anti-Violence sees the human cost of the failure triggered by the resignation of I’m pleased that we’ve managed to open space options. I’m committed Project in Oxford Street. He believes to deal with drugs and drug-related Sydney Lord Mayor, Clover Moore. get government commitments to a to pushing for reforms for apartment Sydney needs to be a vibrant, 24-hour mental health issues. “We need to Greenwich achieved close to 64 per new primary school in Ultimo and a dwellers, particularly in regard city and supports a new approach start treating drug addiction as a cent of the vote after the distribution new high school on the old Cleveland to strata laws, short-term letting, to alcohol-fuelled violence that health issue, and put more resources of preferences, well ahead of the Street High site. The cost of housing overcrowding and smoke drift.” relies on greater enforcement of the into rehabilitation services to help Liberals’ Shayne Mallard. In 2015 is a real concern for people, with Greenwich has been chair of Responsible Service of Alcohol laws, people overcome their addictions.” Patrice Pandeleos will contest the average Sydney house prices now $1 Australian Marriage Equality since rather than blanket lockouts in Kings Patrice Pandeleos (Liberal) is a seat for the Liberals, Edwina Lloyd for million. While the Commonwealth 2007. He says the inner city is an Cross and the CBD. He also supports volunteer at the Sydney Dogs and Cats Labor and Chris Bentin for the Greens. needs to take real action here, the amazing diverse and accepting more funding to fight domestic Home and is dedicated to working NSW government has weakened place, and he wants to keep it that violence and opposes the closure hard to deliver transport, education Alex Greenwich is opposed to the affordable housing requirements and way. “I’m also concerned about of inner-city women’s refuges. and health funding for the people sale of inner-city social housing and is making it harder for Councils to making sure that no one suffers Bentin says the sell-off of of Sydney. S

parties are looking to address. Verity from their parties’ set up. Firth reiterated the importance of Parker is adamant that, “If you social mix. “Something that I am vote for the major parties they will quite passionate about is that we do exactly to you what they did last maintain our housing mix, so that time. They will say everything in we don’t become a gated insular opposition but as soon as they get community of the very rich, and that into government –? You have an we have the capacity for people of all alternative in this area. For example, backgrounds and wages to live here.” in this last term of parliament, myself Parker was quick to point out and the Greens have successfully that for public housing “there was passed over 65 amendments to still a $300 million backlog left bills, we’ve had over 140 motions over from Labor that the Liberals adopted into parliament. We make haven’t met in maintenance”. a difference in the parliament The Liberal government’s and we make a difference in the development plans for the Bays community. That old kind of Precinct attracted the ire of both thinking will never change the Firth and Parker. Both candidates way that politics works. I can be are willing to allow development an independent voice in the middle Jamie Parker Lyndon Gannon Verity Firth on the site but neither will stand of parliament for the community. for the housing targets that I’m not subject to the dictates of the Liberal government and Sussex Street or the factions.” UrbanGrowth NSW have set. Firth stated: “I think the difference “The community needs to between Labor and the Greens is The battle for Balmain put its stamp on what will be that as Labor we do understand happening there. We will not let that we are a potential alternative Samuel Clark with returned to contest the seat our primary schools in particular, 16,000 apartments, which they government. We know we have Ben Aveling & others while Lyndon Gannon will be to make sure that there is good are proposing, happen. We will to be sensible and we can’t just running for the Liberal Party. quality investment in our schools make sure the precinct is world run rampant with promises, and I Balmain is shaping up to be Verity Firth is once again the to help them expand. There is class. It won’t be a developer’s think the Greens have the luxury of a hotly contested seat between Labor candidate, after winning a also the real possibility that we paradise with me as the member never having to be in government. sitting member Jamie Parker community preselection in May will need a new primary school for Balmain,” Parker said. There are a lot of similarities that (Greens), former member and 2014 in which 5,000 people voted. in the electorate of Balmain.” “Bays Precinct could either be Jamie and I have, the difference Minister Verity Firth (Labor), With the Inner West struggling to Both candidates also see a really great or really terrible,” is that I can implement them. It is and 24-year-old Lyndon Gannon deal with the increasing population lot of benefits coming from the Firth admitted. She committed to only going to be a choice, whether (Liberal), an office manager for a it is no surprise that both Parker extension of the light rail down the Labor Party’s Key Planning people like it or not, between a pro-Liberal lobbying consultancy. and Firth are looking to address Parramatta Road and into Balmain. principles for The Bays, which Labor government and a Liberal similar issues. They both mentioned “We also think light rail should be include guaranteed public ownership government. The difference is that The last State election saw the education, transport and sustainable extended under Victoria Road where of the foreshore, guaranteed when you are voting for Labor Liberals, Labor and Greens all development as key issues to address. the lines already exist to White Bay open space and adaptive reuse of you are voting for a party that can receive around 30 per cent of the “We definitely need a new inner and a short tunnel into Gladstone existing sites. “The government implement those changes. The primary votes. Parker edged out city high school. We know that Park to revitalise the shopping strip should go in first. They should do strongest message that you can send the then sitting member, Labor’s by 2018 our schools will be at and give people a really reliable, the harbour foreshore walk, they if you are unhappy with the Liberal Verity Firth, by 254 first preference capacity, but by 2026, even if there clean, alternative public transport should lock in the open space, put government is to vote Labor.” votes. Her preferences then lifted is no new development there will option. Buses are just clogging the in a couple of parks, a couple of The Liberal candidate Lyndon him to victory over the 2011 Liberal be an extra 2,200 kids in the city city and making it impossible for sporting ovals and lock it all in.” Gannon grew up and has been active candidate James Falk, who had been requiring high school,” Firth said. transport to work,” Parker said. Both Firth and Parker admit within the Balmain community, 841 votes ahead of Parker prior to Parker agrees that Balmain Sydney’s housing shortage is that there are similarities between but was unable to respond to the the distribution of preferences. will need a new high school but also causing affordable housing to their campaigns, but one of SSH’s interview requests in time Both Parker and Firth have added: “We need an investment in become another key issue that both the major differences comes for publication. S 8 SOCIAL JUSTICE March 2015

Reader Profile: Anthony Dillon

Anthony’s shifts usually begin at 10pm and involve sleeping overnight, with breakfast duties the following day. “It’s a bigger commitment of time,” Anthony says, “but usually there’s a chance of a good night’s sleep. I enjoy the relationships with the guests, especially small group discussions and late-night chats with men who might want to talk about all kinds of things.” Anthony holds a doctorate in psychology and works as a researcher at the Australian Catholic University in Strathfield. Volunteering at the shelters, Anthony Dillon in Waterloo Photo: John Lanzky however, is not really about professional practice. “It’s Andrew Collis work that any caring person can do,” Anthony says. Celebrating Indigenous culture at Poets Corner Preschool with non-profit organisation Gunawirra, Redfern, February 25 Photo: Jemima Hall Brisbane-raised Anthony “Cana is a good organisation. Dillon is a volunteer at two of Cana I really like the emphasis on treating Communities’ accommodation people with care and respect – being services in South Sydney. For the a companion to others, allowing More thrilling than the technical say of me as a performer, ‘I enjoyed can draw from my strengths to past four years he’s volunteered others to accompany me. Cana skill of “knuckle-buster moves”, that, I enjoyed his company!’” help others. It’s like Martin Luther monthly on Saturday nights for the receives no government funding. Anthony explains, is the thrill of When asked what he most King said, anyone can be great homeless shelter at Christ Church I admire that independence too.” connecting with an audience. “I enjoys about volunteering at the because anyone can be a servant.” St Laurence at Railway Square. When he’s not volunteering spend a lot of time on that – on shelters, Anthony replies: “The Anthony is performing at the Red For the past three years he’s also with Cana or working at the ACU, practising the connection. People are bedrock of self-esteem is helping Rattler in Marrickville on March 14. S volunteered monthly on Wednesday Anthony likes to perform as a only so impressed by a magician who others. There are many tasks and nights at South Sydney Uniting magician. His expertise is in close-up fools them. It’s really about making many roles in an organisation like For information about volunteering Church’s Garden Shelter in Waterloo. tricks – with cards, ropes or strings. a connection so that someone might Cana. At the shelters I feel like I with Cana visit www.cana.org.au

Five-point platform for Vinnies calls for affordable housing disability services and energy reforms and support SSH of negatively geared investment housing is located close to affordability and energy market going into existing properties, services, transport options and complexity. Renters, in either public SSH The St Vincent de Paul Social rather than additional housing employment opportunities. Justice Statement with its priorities or private housing, have no control stock, prices continue to rise. The National Disability for a fairer society was recently Over the last 10 years the cost over inefficient fixtures like hot Insurance Scheme (NDIS) will give To counter these pressures the released. Two of the top three of electricity has risen at 4.6 water systems or poor insulation choice and control to direct services Statement calls on both state and issues identified – affordable times the rate of the Consumer which increase their energy and support to thousands of people federal governments to introduce housing and homelessness, Price Index and gas prices have with disability living in NSW. NDIS costs so it asks that a permanent the following measures to increase increased by 17 per cent in the is also transforming the disability and energy affordability and fund to support proven energy the supply of affordable housing: last year alone. Rising costs have landscape as responsibility for cost of living pressures – are efficiency programs for low-income mainly the responsibility of become a significant issue for many service funding for those eligible • Targeted tax concessions for households be established. is transferred from the State to the state government. The third, people that St Vinnies assists. investments that increase the The St Vincent de Paul Society Commonwealth. refugees and asylum seekers is In addition to rising prices, supply of affordable housing; NSW calls on the NSW government a federal government matter. the energy market in NSW is to review the NSW energy customer In this climate of change, Redfern- • Establish an Affordable Housing undergoing a period of change protection framework to simplify based disability rights and advocacy The Statement links NSW’s high Fund to create incentives for the which will have direct impacts on organisation People With Disability rate of rental stress (30 per cent construction of new social and all energy customers, especially market contracts so customers Australia (PWDA) has launched its of total income spent on housing affordable housing and attract low-income households. Some can easily compare and make five-point NSW election platform. costs) for low-income households to private sector investment; of the key changes include: informed decisions about retail a decrease of 37 per cent between • Invest all proceeds from the sale offers; abolish late payment fees PWDA’s priorities are: 2006 and 2010 in the number of of public housing properties in a • Deregulation of electricity prices and early termination fees, so affordable properties in the private dedicated fund for the purpose in NSW from 1 July 2014 and the customers can take up better offers; • Realise inclusion – through the rental market. Over the last 10 adoption of a new National Energy full implementation of the National of creating new supply of and strengthen sales and marketing years housing costs have risen Customer Protection Framework; Disability Strategy in NSW; affordable and social housing; disclosure requirements for energy at twice the rate of inflation. • Expedite the transfer of • Rising gas prices; retailers and third party marketers. Social Housing is also not • Deliver disability support – with public housing properties to • The state government’s It also recommends reform to the meeting increasing demand. The person-centred disability support community housing providers proposed future lease of NSW energy concessions scheme 2013 Auditor General’s report into services provided in a diverse, via long-term leases; NSW electricity networks; by adopting a concession system sustainable and competitive Housing NSW estimates that current • Ensure local councils have • Technological developments – that is based on the percentage of market; supply of social housing dwellings only meets 44 per cent of the need an affordable housing including the prospect of smart a household bill rather than a fixed • Living in the community – and by 2016, the public waiting list strategy in place with meters and new tariff structures. rebate for all and reforming the addressing the systemic barriers will grow by 60 per cent to 86,532. affordable housing targets; The critical issues for people existing Energy Accounts Payment that exclude people with disability With more than 90 per cent • Make sure affordable and social the Society assists are energy Assistance Scheme. S from the living in the community;

• Deliver on jobs and training – through cross-government strategies to improve training and This page sponsored by UnitingCare NSW.ACT, the Board of the employment outcomes for people NSW and ACT Synod of the Uniting Church responsible for the work with disability; of community services, chaplaincy and social justice advocacy. • Prevent violence and ensure justice – embed a holistic “All our work is inspired and guided by the principles of justice strategy of prevention, protection, and compassion.” prosecution and partnership. S www. unitingcarenswact.org.au People With Disability Australia www.pwd.org.au March 2015 COMMENT & OPINION 9 A heavy burden of suffering EDITOrial is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable ... think about these SSH things.’ (Philippians 4:8).” Those of us who prepare the South On February 28, the Rev. Dr Sydney Herald would agree with him. Andrew Williams, General Secretary Possibly the worst betrayal of our faith of the Uniting Church Synod of NSW is the abuse of a vulnerable child with and the ACT, sent the following the name of God on our lips. Each pastoral note to congregations: year the South Sydney and Pitt Street Uniting congregations hold a special “I have been greatly saddened and service for the survivors of child abuse moved by the appalling stories we and those who grieve for what has have heard in the Royal Commission happened to them. It is always powerful this past week, in particular stories of and moving, and makes us face into lives devastated by what occurred at reality, alongside holding in our hearts, Knox Grammar School. The survivors before God, those who have suffered. and their families have bravely carried These are some of the words from a heavy burden of suffering for decades the liturgy: “O God, there are no words as a result of the sexual abuse. The which would do justice to the pain Basis of Union [the founding document which lies in our hearts in response of the Uniting Church] tells us that to the voices of those who have been God has given us the gift of the Spirit abused. Our tears are joined with to “constantly correct that which is theirs, Holy Spirit. Take away the power erroneous” in our life. Through our of those whose cruelty has so often learnings from the Commission we destroyed the lives of the abused, O will work to create a safer Church. We God. Show us ways to be agents of love, remember the teaching of the Apostle peace and healing and hold those who Paul: ‘Whatever is true, whatever is suffer in your loving arms, O Christ. cartoon: norrie mAy-welby honourable, whatever is just, whatever Amen. S Interagencies – functional The transport system we really need OPINION are exacerbated by not completing rail services; it is time for the state the planned Alexandria station and government to deliver. Restoring light or dysfunctional? Mathew Hounsell the Redfern East station. rail to Flinders Street and Oxford Street The plan for the last 20 years would double the capacity and allow OPINION predecessors … we are developing Every time you walk around the also included the now unfinished the city’s network to be built. This is a plan that at present we cannot “hood” you may very well meet Sydenham to Erskineville railway also advocated by the Waverley and Ross Smith talk about due to … trust us, we are one of the 50,000 new residents clearway. When completed this would Randwick Councils. working on it …” moving to southern Sydney. The allow the south-western passengers to The arithmetic is simple. We know The various government agencies The third step is the announcement newly planned Southern Growth catch express trains to the City. The that one tram can replace five buses operating in the South Sydney area are “due to circumstances beyond our Area is loosely defined from the Airport Line would be free to run or two hundred cars. Now consider members of interagency groups whose control … an inquiry will be held …” Eastern Distributor to the Southern dedicated services from Revesby to moving 48,000 people in an hour. This claimed function is to enhance the The fourth step is the proclamation Railway and from Cleveland Street Central, providing the 20 trains an would take one train line or three tram quality of service to the public while of a new body, which marks the start to Gardeners Road. The City is being hour needed to serve Alexandria and lines or 480 bendy-buses or a 60-metre reducing duplication of supply and of yet another lap of the circular track redrawn dramatically, with the old Green Square. wide, 20-lane toll road. In Victoria, the attendant cost inefficiencies. The of bureaucrat-controlled interagency Waterloo Swamp now transforming If completed, the Alexandria the treasury estimated that extending current peak bodies for social justice operations. into the dense heart of the city. station, corner of Doody Street light rail would cost about $20 million and community engagement in NSW The longstanding community This ambitious venture deserves and Bourke Road, would serve the per kilometre. Compare that with are the other major component of the structure in South Sydney was the all the attention it can get from planned dense commercial precinct the NSW government proposal for interagency membership structure. nursery for most of the current peak the community. surrounding it. Similarly the Redfern WestConnex – a six-lane motorway bodies in NSW. These structures have East station, corner of Raglan Street costing at least $240 million dollars The interagencies have descended the capacity to be, and frequently are, Local residents aren’t NIMBYs; they and George Street, would serve the per kilometre. into dysfunction where the members used by the government as a source of know another 50,000 new residents existing residential and the emerging The inner suburbs of Sydney grew defend their individual actions and input to and comment on government in an under-resourced and under- commercial precincts in Redfern. and flourished around tram networks, avoid responsibility for failure to deliver activities. serviced region will be devastating. These two stations would provide not around motorways and toll roads. the developed outcome targets. These same peak bodies, if they The real problem is the “planning” – a locals with new ways to access jobs The community is demanding low-cost The first step in the responsibility remembered the purpose for which chronically deficient process which and services. transport solutions that will build on avoidance strategy is to cease all they were created, have the capacity to seems to favour mega-development Sydney’s previous tram network our strengths and make the city we all form of active engagement with the restore their original function and thus over sensible incremental solutions. It’s was 290 kilometres long, with seven love just a little bit better. We are left public and remove all community ensure the delivery of services to the no wonder residents have little trust lines servicing southern Sydney. The wondering why the state government representation at the interagency. This public. One of the barriers to their doing in the process and in the authorities’ trams served more passengers, then, is bent on driving a $15 billion toll road denies the public the opportunity to so is their acquired fear of their current ability to get it right. than Sydney Trains do today. One of through the heart of southern Sydney. have input into and knowledge of the funding body – the government. A trip The government’s 2012 aviation these lines serviced Zetland through We have seen toll roads continually intentions of the interagency. down memory lane would hopefully report identified transport bottlenecks Crown Street, Baptist Street and fail across the city and the nation. How The second step is to tell the public jog their conscience, help them to in the region. Consider the Airport Phillip Street. The City of Sydney is much public money will be wasted “we have heard your concerns … overcome these fears, and act again in Rail Line, currently delivering 12 planning to restore this line as a light before politicians accept reality and believe us, we are different from our the community interest. S trains an hour. Soon these trains rail and extend it south through the build the transport system people will be filled with passengers from new dense residential heart of Zetland really need? S the far south-west with almost no and Rosebery. space left for passengers from the Local governments throughout Mathew Hounsell is the Co-convenor I know. Do you really? intermediate stations. The problems the city are clamouring for light of EcoTransit Sydney.

faith that the God they claim to serve is countries who invaded all of Africa, a leader like that as an evil dictator. Can we laugh at each other and telling them to do that. They are even took it over and stole its resources as None of this means that we can’t live critique each other’s views? Surely this Dorothy McRae-McMahon prepared to die in a form of martyrdom well as turning many of its people into from a faith in God or from an atheistic happens within loving families and, themselves to please this God. And let slaves. Often they did this in the name position, but precisely because we are even though it sometimes offends us, Over the ages, the most dangerous us not delude ourselves, as far back as of their God. We could go on – there ordinary human beings, we should we can engage in genuine dialogue people are those who think they history goes, there have been people are many more tragic and horrible surely do that from a humble position and move into respectful relationships “know” what life is about and what like that. stories in history about people who which is open to listen to the way again. might, or might not, lie beneath it. Remember the Crusaders killing destroyed others in the name of their others understand reality. What might Undoubtedly, we are now living in They are, of course, fundamentalists off all those who were not Christian. God. More often than not, they did this attract us in that direction is that, a time when these issues are critically and can be found at the margins of Think of the Puritans who landed on for their own advantage and claimed when we look at the lives of those from important. The words of a young boy, every faith and none. This is not to the coast of what is now the United that this was the gift of their God in other faiths or none, we see people Ibrahim Sakar, in the talk he gave at a say that having beliefs is wrong, but States of America. They met the response to their obedience. who are just and compassionate, who recent Together for Humanity dinner rather that it is critical that we accept Native Americans and said to them, Always, there is the underlying care for the creation and who live (published in this issue of our paper), that we “believe” rather than “know”, “Believe in Jesus Christ and you will question of what sort of God we are respectfully alongside those who differ can lift our hearts towards the dream so that we are open to others who be saved”. The Indigenous people told serving when we do things like that. from them. of a new world. I believe that the God believe differently and walk humbly them that they had their own faith, so Are we worshipping a God who kills When we do that, we so often find who created us, and who accompanies alongside each other on the differing the Christians said, “Oh well, you will little children and other innocent that people of other religions and none us on our life journeys, longs for this journeys of life. be going to hell, so we may as well people just because they don’t bow have insights about life and faith to new world where respect and love open kill you”. So they did and they even to that God? What sort of God would do offer to us. Even the questions they our lives to grand new possibilities for We are especially conscious, in formed avenues of heads on stakes as that? Would we worship and support raise for us in what they believe often living together. recent days, of people who kill others they took the land. a human being who led people in that can enrich our understandings and May this New Year bring forth this because they live from the view Think of the European Empire way? I think most of us would regard deepen our lives and relationships. hope for us all. S 10 FEATURES March 2015 Water knows no borders E nvironmental peace-building in the Middle East In recent years the world has become united on this generation’s greatest environmental challenge: climate change. It has finally started to recognise the need to come together to solve what can only be described as a global problem.

Gidon Bromberg cooperation on a plethora of environmental issues. In recent years Climate change is unique, we have focused on advocating for given its wide-spread nature and the rehabilitation of the declining wide-reaching impact: no matter Lower Jordan River and the who, what, or where the source of endangered Dead Sea; advancing pollution, climate change affects and leveraging funds for sanitation and will affect every country, solutions to prevent pollution of regardless of political affiliation, trans-boundary surface and ground military might, or economic water; creating educational programs prowess. Most countries have to raise the awareness of youth to the finally recognised their communal reality of shared natural resources responsibility to protect not only and our peoples’ interdependence of their own self-interest, but that interests; and creating a model for of their neighbours’ as well. And a Final Water Agreement between perhaps more importantly, they Gidon Bromberg Photo: Supplied Israel and Palestine. The model is have realised that they need to act based on principles of equitable and together to make an impact. quality (and human health) are sustainable use of resources, to serve sidelined or go unresolved when as a trust building measure that could But climate change is the exception to governments and neighbouring help put the political process back the rule. The environment is rarely given communities are either not willing on track. We also facilitate regional priority in politics; decision-making or not able to work together. Too sustainable economic development about how to remedy environmental often the conflict directly causes such in the basins in which we operate. problems seems influenced as much by regional environmental problems, Despite the great challenges and special interest groups and party lines or the parties are more focused the long way ahead, we take pride in as by science and testimony. Time and on the politically salient issues. the many achievements our unique time again, we have seen that it is hard EcoPeace Middle East, an approach has yielded so far. For enough to get one country to agree to a environmental peacebuilding example, our decade-long efforts course of action, let alone two or three. organisation, is actively working to place the rehabilitation of the Hanging in the bat cave Photo: Katy Brownless In the Middle East, particularly to remedy this disconnect. polluted and diverted Lower Jordan where Israel, Jordan, and Palestine EcoPeace recognises that, in order River on the decision-making table are concerned, many of the region’s to solve regional environmental bore fruit in the Summer of 2013 environmental resources – perhaps problems such as inequity in when, for the first time in 49 years, water foremost – cross a contentious water supply, overuse of ground fresh water was released from the Bat to reality! political border. Nature is not and surface waters, pollution of Sea of Galilee into the river. Last confined by arbitrarily defined waterways and landscapes, and month, following over two years of Katy Brownless “Bats are an essential keystone EcoPeace deliberations at the Israeli species. Bats are the only long- High Court of Justice, the Israeli Morandir Armson knows the range pollinators of Eucalyptus Military were denied the building facts on fruit bats and is Sydney’s trees. If there were no fruit bats EcoPeace recognises that, in order to solve regional of the Separation Barrier through real-life “Batman”. He is a WIRES in Australia, there would be no the terraces of Battir – a UNESCO (Wildlife Information, Rescue Eucalypt forests in 50-100 years. environmental problems ... it is necessary for World Heritage Site west of the city and Education Service) volunteer We have a slogan: no me, no tree.” of Bethlehem. This highlighted and is so passionate about saving And his response to bats being Jordanians, Israelis and Palestinians to work the need to balance environmental these misunderstood mammals pests? “It’s ludicrous. Bats and and security considerations that he has transformed the larger humans like to live in the same together to achieve the same goal. even in the midst of conflict. of his two bedrooms into a “bat areas, but it is easy for communities In late 2014, through our Good cave”, which has been a healing to learn to live with fruit bats.” Water Neighbours program, we haven for the last three years. However, like animals and initiated, along with local Israeli and humans, bats do carry certain political boundaries. And neither, insufficient sanitation solutions, Jordanian farmers, the creation of a Housing up to 10 bats at a time, diseases and should not be therefore, are environmental it is necessary for Jordanians, Model Farm in the south of Jordan. Morandir tells the sad tales of how touched. If you find an injured problems; more often than not, Israelis and Palestinians to work Based on principles of sustainable each bat arrived on his doorstep. bat, WIRES requests people who a problem plaguing one party together to achieve the same goal. agriculture, the farm is a teaching “Pip” came into care because his are not appropriately vaccinated also affects the others. For EcoPeace Middle East is a trilateral site for farmers across the region. mum was caught in power lines. to avoid contact with the bat and example, pollution of a body of organisation (based in Tel Aviv, In the last five years we managed He is staying in the bat cave until to cover it with a box or towel water in one country threatens Israel; Bethlehem, Palestine; and to leverage nearly half a billion U.S. a spot arises at “crèche”, where until professional help attends. the viability of that resource in Amman, Jordan) that brings together dollars for sanitation solutions in bats are habituated to life without But with that in mind, less than neighbouring countries as well. Jordanians, Palestinians and Israelis the region, to address the numerous human contact and prepared 1 per cent of fruit bats carry the Environmental problems in this to rehabilitate and protect the region’s sources of pollution that endanger the for release back into the wild. Lyssavirus and since 1788 only region of the world are almost water and other environmental fresh water resources that we all use. Sadly, Pip is not the only bat three people have died from it. always regional environmental resources. We uniquely combine But our work is more than to have run foul of power lines. Yet the state government is concerns, and they therefore top-down advocacy with grassroots, environmental in its nature. By “Seven” suffered an electric shock tabling “shoot to kill” plans to require cooperative solutions. In community-based approaches. bringing together people of different that ran through the top of her head eradicate bats, and local Councils order for environmental protection Our work builds on a mutual faiths and nationalities who share a down into her feet, resulting in are lobbying to reduce the numbers and conscientious environmental interest shared by all parties to concern for their shared environment, burnt wings and damaged kidneys. of bats in their regions. Morandir management to be successful, all improve the region’s water and we are helping to foster peacebuilding She was sick for a long time and and WIRES representatives plead users and beneficiaries need to larger environmental reality. efforts in the region. We use the is lucky to have survived. Seven that people act with compassion contribute to the common good. We bring together a variety of environment as a platform for was so badly burnt that it was very and good reason to reject these And if resolving cross-border stakeholders: environmental activists, creating interpersonal, cross-border likely she would be euthanised, but harmful notions. S environmental problems weren’t community leaders, government connections between historic Morandir and his partner did shifts already difficult enough, regional officials, parliamentarians, adversaries that will be fruitful for all night to massage her swollen If you find an injured animal in need of conflicts and geopolitical tensions municipal staff, youth groups, other peace-making endeavours. S feet so they wouldn’t fall off. help, please call the WIRES Rescue Line only exacerbate what otherwise faith leaders (Jewish, Muslim It is clear that Morandir’s life on 1300 094 737. WIRES is a charity are still complicated environmental and Christian) and international Gidon Bromberg is Israeli Director revolves around the protection and that relies on donations and volunteers. issues. Environmental problems are community representatives. of EcoPeace Middle East. For more preservation of the bat population, To become involved or show your being “held hostage to the conflict”, We have worked together for information about EcoPeace Middle and that he is well-informed support, please visit www.wires.org.au so to speak. Issues of environmental 20 years to promote cross-border East, please visit www.foeme.org about bat ecology. As he explains: or call 02 8977 3396. The Review March ’15 11

Happy and gay on the fairest of days

Katy Brownless

CAMPERDOWN: “Come as you are” is the anecdote and most appropriate invitation for all those who partake in Fair Day. Without judgement or shame, Victoria Park transforms into a playground for all those excluded from the regular stomping grounds in our hetero-normative world. Whether a part of Doggy-wood or the Gaybourhood, everyone was included in the celebrations of Fair Day, which kicks off the Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras celebrations each year.

If not for the glory and the pride, Fair Day is a chance for people from Fair Day Dog Show Photo: Katy Brownless the entire spectrum of sexualities and genders to come together and celebrate the diversity of our community. With a City of Sydney Council devotes to with their “My Body, My Rights” sincere opening by Lord Mayor Clover doggie rights. campaign and ACON’s continuous Moore, the dog parade was a glorious Fair Day featured over 200 sports/ efforts to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS way to honour those who have adopted leisure/recreation clubs who serve the struck a chord with attendees. Let’s “families” (albeit canine) and to pay LGBTIQ community. In particular, all party safe this season and pray the respects to the continual work that Amnesty International struck a pose gays to play! Jon Stewart directs Rosewater

Nai Palm at 505 Photo: Daniel Knott Film Review wing commentary and causes in the from Stewart through his TV program. by Lindsay Cohen USA. Because of his sense of injustice, Rosewater is everything you’d hope eye for irony and perfect comic timing for from Stewart. It’s insightful, he can go where no other political touching, shocking and clever. There Intimacy & commentator would dare to tread. are also a few laughs to release tension So it’s no surprise that when Stewart and highlight absurdity. decided to leave the small screen and As a piece of film making it’s explore the big screen he combined all nothing special, though there are some improvisation his talents (and no doubt some friendly interesting cinematic techniques and Hollywood contacts) to write, produce editing devices used to progress the and direct a film with a powerful social story or provide some context. Gael Live Music Review Trap Knife began their completely and moral conscience. García Bernal is really good too. by Liz Hughes improvised set cautiously, with each Rosewater Rosewater is the true story of Iranian- Stewart has gone from stand-up musician respecting each other’s Director: Jon Stewart (yes, that one) Trap Knife supported by Nai Palm Canadian journalist Maziar Bahari comic to political satirist to cinematic reputation as much as each other’s musical Starring: Gael García Bernal 505 Surry Hills, February 16 (the movie is based on his book) storyteller and been brilliant at all space. Bender took the lead with stellar Genre: Not the Daily Show who found himself caught up in the of it. His film deserves respect and bass-lines, with Luke Dubbs injecting Iranian political upheaval and student admiration irrespective of which wing For a last-minute announcement of hooks reminiscent of Hermitude, and Jon Stewart is a hugely influential, protests that followed flawed elections of the political divide you subscribe to. a band no-one has ever heard or seen Kevin Kerr establishing the overall highly successful and politically savvy in 2009. He eventually spent 118 days before, Trap Knife at Surry Hills 505 vibe of the sound with reverb-laden comedian. Loved and loathed in equal in prison, including being tortured Rating: Four tea parties. sold out with surprising speed. Take a improvisations on the trumpet. It wasn’t measure, his Daily (4 times a week) and interrogated. He was released as »»[email protected] closer look at the members of the band long before Nai Palm was back on the Show is the standard bearer for left- a result of Western pressure, including and it doesn’t take long to realise why. stage, getting the audience to sing along with her improvised vocal lines. With Hiatus Kaiyote’s Paul Bender Solos were tasteful and more scarce on bass and Perrin Moss on drums, than one might have expected, with Thundamental’s Kevin Kerr on trumpet more emphasis on the overall groove. and Hermitude’s Luke Dubs on keys, Trap Perrin Moss steered the songs in different Knife comprises Australia’s Hip Hop, directions, constantly challenging his Future-Soul and Electronic royals. And fellow musicians and the audience with if that wasn’t enough to pull a crowd, beats that were both welcomed and 505 announced that Hiatus Kaiyote’s Nai unexpected. Palm would be performing a solo set to Hiatus Kaiyote’s Simon Maven open the show. stepped up to the keys for the last part With a wrestler’s hat emblazoned with of the set, and he was characteristically the word “wolf ” and huge, gold hoop brilliant, but it was Melbourne’s Laura earrings, Nai Palm performed a set of Christophoridos who stole the show. originals and covers, some as unexpected A backing vocalist of Hiatus Kaiyote, as they were delightful, including Christophoridos has an intriguing, husky Chaka Kahn’s “Ain’t Nobody Love Me voice that is both gentle and powerful, Better” and Radiohead’s “There There”. and her improvisation was gutsy and All well executed, the covers she chose honest. didn’t outshine her originals. Rather, Trap Knife’s entire set was very they demonstrated the diversity of her inclusive of the audience and felt far musicianship and legitimacy of her from the elitist mood improvised music own songwriting. On her own tunes can often exude. The performance was “Nakamarra” and “Breathing Underwater” so intimate and inclusive that we walked Nai Palm tested the boundaries of her own away feeling as though we had all shared songwriting, jamming with herself and a very special and unrepeatable moment.

Redfern Night Markets have moved to The Block this year: 4-9pm the first Friday of each month Photo: Lyn Turnbull demonstrating that she has more to offer than the last time she performed in Sydney. »»[email protected] 12 The Review March ’15

positioned reader appears to be on elderly woman disinterested in her Our expedient and punitive past trial and although not charged with neighbour’s overtures of friendliness, contains many instances – including The Reviews a crime he is being held in indefinite content with her trance-like existence, the internment of German and detention. Again official business, this and obsessively fond of her house- Japanese during the war – in which Theatre Reviews not been “to pluck out the heart” of his time the management strategies of an bound cat, is roughly shaken up when complex human situations are treated by Catherine Skipper subject’s mystery but rather to show off-shore company, is conducted from Missy discovers her “natural order” as logistical problems to be solved by the paradoxical nature of the creator of right to left and back again, obviating (a highpoint in the reading) is quite the most pragmatic approach. Behind “terrible beauty”. When Roost/Bacon his existence as an individual, reducing different to the order opposed by her this particular barbwire we find a exits on the line that individuals should him to an object. However, the inner “owner”. But Missy’s perceived “natural Sri Lankan, still detained after six be themselves for who else can they be, life of this “no one” reveals him to be a order” proves to have some drawbacks months, a young student from Vietnam it might be received as a provocation sensitive, artistic individual who values also. arbitrarily arrested as she returns from rather than as a “truth”. his country’s proud and rich Persian From fable to apparent folktale, Pari her part-time job late at night, and The simple staging, white walls with past but is forbidden to voice respect by Gol (writer, Amir Mohammadi, readers, Con, a Greek, who stoically accepts his three dark coloured banners allowing a repressive regime. As an internee, he Ah Kim, Debbie Zuckermann, Kostic- fate as a deportee because after all he a behind, a between and in front to is completely denied the opportunity London) is a story of the barbe bleue has committed an actual offence. So allocate different scenarios, and few but to put his case, to explain what he genre with traditional folk characters. who can we blame for tolerating the Pope Head appropriate sound effects (Matthew “sought” in becoming an “asylum The young innocent, Pari Gol, is fact that “asylum-seeking” is treated as a The Secret Life of Francis Bacon Williams and Eddie Gay), showcases seeker”. He can speak only through married to a rich man who already crime? Meet Pam, of Woolworth’s deli Written and performed Roost’s mesmerising portrayal. Once denying himself sustenance. possesses two wives, one dominant, in Self-Service (writer, Rachel Brown, by Garry Roost again we have the Théâtre Excentrique, By contrast, Why We Run (writer, the other sniveling, a lazy son and director, Dino Dimitriadis, reader Jan Directed by Paul Garnault and in particular Gerry Sont, to thank Tasnim Hossain, director, Dino a put-upon servant. The kindly Pari Barr in a stand-out performance). She’s Old Fitz Theatre, Woolloomooloo for bringing us another challenging Dimitriadis), a monologue (read Gol is mistreated by the wives, the son ridiculously funny, she has attitude February 24 – March 6, 2015 and exciting theatre experience. beautifully by Emma Harvie), engages attempts to seduce her and Pari Gol’s to technical change in the food retail the audience through the lively and altruistic attempts to treat the servant industry that strikes a sympathetic Very appropriate to the forthcoming reflective voice of Hind, a young as an equal are used by the jealous chord in the audience, she makes fun Mardi Gras celebration, Theatre Palestinian-Syrian refugee. Hind is wives to cast doubt on the fathering of of acronyms and pompous OH&S Excentrique presents Garry Roost’s taking part in a highly publicised her newly conceived child. Enter the policies, and she’s not racist. Not in outstanding solo performance exploring relay race across the desert to raise cruel Mullah who has no hesitation general, but when Pam has to train the turbulent life and iconoclastic art consciousness about the plight of in condemning the girl to an enforced Abdul Rasheed, an Afghani refugee, of Francis Bacon (1909-1992). Bacon’s Syrian refugees. In the course of her abortion and then stoning. So where her inability to “manage” the girl work is very significant as in a world training she meets a young Australian is the folk ending in which Pari Gol becomes apparent and resentment of still largely hostile to homosexuality, aid-worker who has stepped in at is saved by the faithful servant, who is difference surfaces. She can change his depiction of homosexual desire, the last minute as a replacement really a prince under a spell? In fact, however – begrudgingly. if often highly coded, gained some runner, and as they train Hind talks as this is reality in Afghanistan where Can we as a nation? The typically Asylum: Program 1 acceptance. Highly acclaimed in the to him about the things that matter the most brutal expression of misogyny pragmatic approach we have taken An Apocalypse Theatre Production present, Bacon’s Three Studies of Lucian to her, most importantly, the sad is an institutionalised practice, the is based upon finding a solution Artistic Director: Dino Dimitriadis Freud sold for $142,405,000 in 2013. circumstances of the camp children. servant has fled and innocence and for groups labelled in various ways, Old 505 Theatre Garry Roost, as writer, offers us She remembers her own Syrian kindliness are sacrificed to preserve “enemy aliens”, “displaced persons”, 342 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills the enigma of Francis Bacon in his childhood and childhood friend, and the power of the old order. However, “economic refugees” and “illegals” and February 3-15, 2015 full complexity and contradictoriness. through this gives the audience insight she is not without defenders as the as a consequence the most effective of Skillfully Roost makes uses of key into the loss of the familiar, what was Afghani writer, Amir, is her witness. the readings were those monologues characters – the curious figure of The Coalition government took the once assumed future of a very able The very short reading Meena which highlighted the dreams and Nanny Lightfoot, patrons and lovers Operation Sovereign Borders – a young girl. However, Hind’s most (writer, Noelle Janaczewska, directed hopes of the individual seeker after – and key places – Berlin, the Colony military-led response to “combat people important observation and relevant Kate Gaul, reader, Suz Mawer) succour. Bread and Butter (written and Club – and key events – the horrors smuggling and protect Australia’s to her personal effort in the publicity bears witness also to the suffering directed by Melita Rowston, reader of war and tyranny – to anchor his borders” – to the September 2013 relay, is the ease with which negative of mothers who must wait and wait Josipa Draisma in another stand-out biodrama and as reference point to federal election. Apocalypse Theatre acts, such as those of Islamic State, upon the response of an all-powerful deeply and moving performance) is artworks produced. However, he doesn’t initiated an immediate response by garner media attention while the plight government. When will her son be the voice of Maryam formerly from place Bacon at any particular moment inviting playwrights across the country of thousands of refugees requires an released? What is his crime? Why the dangerous environment of Kabul, chronologically and consequently we to create plays examining this widely “event” to keep them in the public eye. is he imprisoned? Where is justice? and now a resident of Marrickville, a are given a strong sense of the turmoil, debated policy and the selected plays Such a spontaneous but horrifying And in responding to her anguish, it location she notices and appreciates. the chaos of an existence dependent matched to directors and actors. For “event” is the focus of the last reading, is well to be reminded that nobody is She has retained the vivid memory upon contingency, the turn of events 12 nights 24 new Australian works, Flying Fish Cove (writer, Hilary Bell, invulnerable. As I Could Be You (writer, of making naan with her mother and and reaction rather than upon choice largely presented as staged readings, director, Dino Dimitriadis, and readers, Hoa Pham, director, Jane Grimley, the process of bread making – the or path. consider what it means to seek asylum. Firdaws Adelpour, Camilla Ah Kin, readers, Kirsty Kiloh, Joanna Jaaniste, alchemy of flour, water and salt – has Or is this what Bacon as public The first reading, 63 days (writer, Nadam Kobeissi, Abi Rayment Alice Keohavong, Barton Williams become the means through which persona, the artist who likes to be Christopher Bryant, directed by David and Pearl Tan). Composed entirely and Zohab Khan) emphasises, there she soothes her anxieties when she photographed in a detritus-filled Burrowes, and readers, Emma Harvie, of the words of witnesses to, and are many peoples who have found is unable to sleep. Having settled studio, would have us believe? Eddie McKenna and Samantha Ward), commentators upon, the sinking of both their pleas and their protests into her new country thankfully, her Roost, a gifted character actor, is able makes effective use of positioning a boat off Christmas Island, in which ignored in our lucky country. Set in the happiness is completed when she is to suggest through physical gesture, to emphasise its theme. The three 48 asylum seekers, including children, contemporary Maribyrnong Detention offered a traineeship at a bakery. She facial expression and tone of voice, readers stand facing the audience: were drowned, this short piece is Centre, this reading raises the ghost of relishes having her own home space, that this public persona, the enfant at the centre is Arman the internee, deeply affecting. The devastation of Australia’s chequered past. The spirit her own things, her independence and terrible, is a Baconian performance to the left the speaker representing the witnesses as they look out beyond of a grief stricken woman, distractedly apparent safety. But when Australia honed over time in keeping with his current and conflicted community the audience at the struggle of human passing between German and English, deems Kabul “safe” for asylum seekers reputation as ruthless editor of his own views of “asylum seekers” and a third beings to survive the shipwreck renders haunts the centre which in the 1950s to return to after US forces withdraw work. For instance, his account of being speaker on the right represents the public opinion and policy alike totally housed migrant workers. Enticed to from Afghanistan, Maryam’s frail discovered by his father, Captain Eddy government’s official view. While the irrelevant. Australia by government propaganda happiness is again threatened. How Bacon, wearing his mother’s stockings, focus shifts from left to right and back We, however, are not forced to stand as a means of increasing population can Australia deem Kabul safe: for and subsequent banishment from the again, Arman, the man, as opposed to by helplessly while our government and decreasing national vulnerability, a woman on her own in particular family home and his tale of how he that distancing “asylum seeker”, lies continues to uphold policies that many were accommodated on this site or for any individual? How does a first met his lover, George Dyer, seem curled on the floor grimly battling submerge humane values beneath in the infamous Nissen hut. government have the arrogance to too neat, too likely to fulfill listeners’ hunger, rendering both the rather self- a flood of alarmist rhetoric. Unlike To recall, a Nissen hut is a semi- believe it can measure safety? expectations than be completely satisfied community discussion and the the asylum seekers of these powerful cylindrical structure, made out of Dino Dimitiriadis must be factual. While Bacon’s depiction of pompous officialese of government readings, we have a voice. corrugated iron and uninsulated, the congratulated on bringing this complex himself on a social occasion or two as policy makers irrelevant in the face largest, 20 metres long. The large huts and compassionate response to a most Asylum: Program 2 facing down important people, and his of his suffering. Arman who fears were divided into four cabins with a urgent issue of social justice to the witty badinage, give the appearance of a imprisonment and torture should he In Program 2, the Apocalypse different family living in each quarter. public. While theatre is not either able confident man, Roost’s bodily tension, return to his own country, and who ensemble continues to closely examine The cabins were separated by a flimsy to provide or implement solutions to and vulnerable hand movements, is refused entry to another country the issues through the presentation partition that allowed families no the asylum seeker question, Asylum suggest an unstable, conflicted human which interns him indefinitely, chooses of different perspectives, probing privacy. Each cabin consisted of two does what theatre can do best: places being. to exert the only freedom left to him, uncomfortable spots in the national rooms with a bed in each intended to the audience in other people’s shoes Our attention is drawn in course of that of choosing to die horribly from psyche and questioning the versions house two adults and possibly a child, and prompts questioning of current the performance to Bacon’s own picture starvation after 63 days. currently offered as “truths” to the but were often home for a family of “acceptable” attitudes. The sincerity of the artist’s task as being “always to A similar theme is presented in community. seven to nine people. There was no of the project is evidenced by the deepen the mystery”. Volumes have Day 48 (written by Cybele McNeil, One reading to savagely attack the private kitchen, laundry or bathroom artists involved waiving their fees so been written seeking to elucidate directed by Charlotte Bradley, and often proffered “truth” that catastrophes as these facilities were communal. that ticket sales can be donated, in Bacon’s motivation in obsessively readers, Firdaws Adelpour, Sopa are in “the natural order of things” is Many of the “displaced”, as they were full, to the Asylum Seekers Centre reworking the so-called “screaming Enari, Jen Gardner, Nadim Kobeissi the fable Missy and her Master (writer, called, were contracted to live in these in Newtown & the Asylum Seeker Popes” (flyer image, Graeme Dalton) and Bianca Kostic-London), the third Elias Jamieson Brown, director, Dino “hostels” for two years and to work at Resource Centre (asrc) in Melbourne. but there can be no infallible reading. presentation, but placing the emphasis Dimitriadis, readers, Camilla Ah Kin any job allotted them regardless of »»[email protected] Roost’s task in presenting Bacon has differently. In this reading, a centrally and Tom Conroy). A self-centred their actual skills. The Review March ’15 13

Freedom Ride returns with celebration event Troy Cassar-Daley and Paul Kelly perform at Moree Image: University of Sydney/Victoria Baldwin

Lindsey Stirling Photo: Charlotte Tai Michael Spence people were living. It was a turning — one of four held across the journey. point in civil rights in this country, Local performers warmed up the crowd At the University of Sydney, we and two weeks ago, a bus carrying before Troy Cassar-Daley and Paul Über-cool electro-pop are celebrating the 50th anniversary current students, staff, and 11 of the Kelly gave their all. And we shouted of the 1965 Freedom Ride, and we’d original Freedom Riders, made a the words and danced up a storm! love you to join us. Bring your picnic journey retracing part of the route of The sheer joy of that evening will Live Music Review met through her concerts. Everyone blanket along on Friday March 20 the original 1965 Freedom Ride. Our stay with me. But it is the personal by Charlotte Tai roared at the thought of a new dating and join some of Australia’s best- students were led by Kyol Blakeney, the recollections recounted that day that website called lindseymingle.com, then loved musicians — including Paul first Indigenous man to be President resonate the most. Lindsey Stirling the song instilled a romantic tranquility Kelly and Troy Cassar-Daley, along of the Student Representative Council, It is with great pride that I see that Enmore Theatre, February 21 and people waved their phone lights in with special guests — to celebrate, in attending community forums and stories from and about the students’ trip the air (myself included). “Roundtable in front of the University of Sydney’s visiting schools and a juvenile justice have, through social and mainstream Lindsey Stirling drove the Rival” didn’t disappoint, with Lindsey Quadrangle on the Camperdown centre, speaking with local people and media, reached more than seven million crowd nuts when she performed at on her violin and Garvy on the keytar campus. It’s free and open to all. finding out what has changed since people. Such awareness is exactly what the Enmore Theatre inN ewtown, breaking out into a sparky music duel. 1965 and what still needs to be done. the original Freedom Riders set out mesmerising fans willing to listen to The climatic piece was her most iconic The celebration event will be In every town the bus visited, our to create and it is a word we intend her live performance and fall under song to date, “Shatter Me”, and in co-presented by the NSW Aboriginal original Freedom Riders, most of to spread as far and wide as we can. her unique musical spell. For the Lindsey’s explanation of the song, she Land Council, the Charlie Perkins them now around 70, received a hero’s We will continue to reach out to the electro-pop violinist and YouTube spoke of how it’s about breaking out of Trust and the University of Sydney welcome, as well they deserved. Local communities we visited and more, and sensation, this was the second time one’s shell, transcending insecurities and Student Representative Council — people wept as they recalled both the keep going on this journey. Lindsey graced the stage in Australia, embracing one’s unique spirit. all of whom were our partners in a conditions that prevailed before 1965 As Paul Kelly sings, “From little and she brightly professed her joy at There were some weaknesses though recent re-enactment of the original and remembered the arrival of Charles things, big things grow”. I hope to see the enthusiasm of Sydneysiders. that I must point out as a critic. Freedom Ride [see page 1]. We will also Perkins and his mob of students. Our you on March 20! Waiting for our leading lady would’ve hold a “Controversial Conversation” band of original Freedom Riders was From the first few moments of been more bearable had there been a that engages Aboriginal leaders and moved to tears by the welcome they being seated comfortably in the dress better introductory act, or none at all. thinkers and social justice campaigners received; many had simply not realised circle, looking down at the frisky youth Either way, the DJ needs to go, and I’d exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait how important their youthful journey crammed in the mosh pit, I remember recommend another DJ who has their Islander realities, entitled “Freedom had been. feeling bored and very irritated that own original tracks to mix, rather than or Frustration”. Food and drinks will I joined them in Kempsey, where everyone had to wait for the star of the remixing what we’ve all heard before. be available onsite from 4pm, with I have never been more proud of the Authorised by Michael Spence, show to present herself, and suppressing I’m thinking a third band member conversation at 5pm and the main University and of its students, past and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the urge to pull my hair out at the should’ve gone on tour to accompany event from 7pm. present. In a packed pavilion at the Sydney. Contact Details – Security excruciatingly loud dance tracks played Lindsey, whether it’s a second string Why are we celebrating? Well, in showgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres & After Hours: 1800 063 487 by a young female DJ, with a short player on the double bass, cello or 1965, 29 University of Sydney students, Strait Islander people told their stories (24/7). Enquiries: 9114 0523; email blonde pixie haircut, who wasn’t really viola, or even a brass player. The idea led by Charles Perkins, took to country of life before, during, and after the 1965 [email protected]/ memorable, apart from revving up the of a jazzy saxophone player alongside NSW roads in a bus, to investigate Freedom Ride. It was a profoundly leadership. moshpit gang’s energy by turning to take Lindsey’s splendid string sounds is just and protest the conditions in which moving experience. More on the Freedom Ride 2015: a selfie with them at the end. too thrilling to ignore! Of course with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander The forum was followed by a concert www.sydney.edu.au/freedomride Finally after waiting for nearly an Lindsey’s beautiful vocal talent that hour, a golden spotlight was trained completely took me by surprise, this is on a drummer, slamming powerful something that should’ve featured more beats, the keyboarder joined in, then too. These are just some possibilities Lindsey played, her soaring melodies for her future ensemble arrangements. echoing out of the darkness, and all the Lindsey did make a convenient sensations of madly coloured stage lights costume change between acts, wearing and booming sounds overwhelmed me the same red tartan leggings and black in the best way. Snapping away photos sparkly shoes, first with a black fringe of all the eccentric stage play with my mesh top, then to a shiny short black Nikon DSLR I immediately envied dress. I would’ve preferred a more the moshpit gang, who got to see the contrasting costume change. The second night’s violinist up close, and even outfit should’ve been more colourful some whipping out their pro cameras and elaborate like some of the stunning with mega lenses, or iPhones like the pieces she wears in her music videos. It majority. also would’ve been great if the feature But moving on to what were the key artist for “Shatter Me”, Lzzy Hale, strengths of this über-cool gig, Lindsey’s performed with Lindsey on the night, multitasking prowess is something of giving it more wow factor, rather than Festival of contemporary art a phenomenon, from her simultaneous simply hearing her vocals as a back up by louisa dyce on the many and varied experiences Major solo exhibitions often lead us of art which you can participate in. to re-evaluate an artist’s body of playing of the violin while breaking recording while the music video played Glenn Barkley, the artistic director for work as it develops over time, and to out into highly physical choreography, on screen. Art Month 2015, has joined forces with The festival takes place benchmark them against history and charming the audience with her The amazing thing is that no matter diverse artists to create this year’s from March 6-29. occasional vocals, and her constant how talented she is Lindsey proves to be festival themed “Where art happens”. the broader culture. For the collector, Here’s just one example. a major survey show can reveal a switch from performer to MC. The so humble and inspirational to her fans. The website shows where all the period which is particularly coveted. warm camaraderie between Lindsey She is something of a success story, and exhibitions are happening in and We hardly knew you: Finding the “We hardly knew you” looks at the and her bandmates Garvy (on keyboard) told us that her fame comes from being around Sydney: artist in surveys and retrospectives way major solo exhibitions deepen and Drew (on drums) injected the right so unique, and striving, never giving up www.artmonthsydney.com.au March 10 FREE, 6-8pm our understanding of an artist’s amount of fun and entertainment in for one moment, no matter how many There are many exhibitions to go to, SH Ervin Gallery work and how their importance may between songs. people told her she’d fail because she so please take a look. You can also 2 Watson Road, Millers Point still be at a point of resolution The unforgettable songs of the night is different. reserve places for talks on multiple for me started with her cover of John I guarantee that Australia will topics, art tours, dinners, and a series Speakers include Glenn Image: Roy Jackson, Lastlight (detail), of panel discussions, a collector’s Barkley, Brenda Croft, Ildiko 2012, 57x76cm acrylic and oil stick Legend’s “All of Me”, with Lindsey welcome Lindsey Stirling again when space and art at night. Don’t miss out Kovacs and Jane Watters. on card. Private Collection. mentioning beforehand that it was she returns to our shores with more new dedicated to love, as many couples have songs and stories to tell. 14 The Review March ’15

x Grilanc & Cat ed by Ale hie Harri Creat son Wordplays

Counting on love 2 become 1 at 3am for 4 minutes …

She had 5 colours in her hair he had 19 tattoos …

DL for JM lasts 7 days and 21 seconds and then

99 balloons go up up up …

Frog has come to visit Bee in a South Sydney park. – Catherine Skipper What might Frog see in the park? Can you draw something that Frog sees? Did you ever see a kookaburra laugh? Send your scanned or photographed drawings to For the beauty of the earth [email protected] or by mail to: For the bread and for the wine Frog & Bee, po Box 3288 Redfern nsw 2016. For the fruits of all creation Look for something from your drawing in We give thanks with a grateful heart. next month’s adventure of Frog & Bee! Now the green blade rises from the grain Nature with open volume stands to Pull back the veil on the dawn of creation: Stars and planets flung in orbit and There’s a light upon the mountains. by David Angell South Sydney Puzzle And the morning gilds the skies

First correct entry wins a prize. Now the baby is an hour or two old Problem Send to South Sydney Puzzle, Then love is found and hope comes home. I am thinking of two numbers. PO Box 3288, REDFERN NSW 2016. Each of them has two digits, – M.A. Vazey and the digits are the same Last month's solution but in the opposite order (for example 12 and 21). If you WORDPLAYS – Creative Writing Group CLUB REDFERN, 2/159 REDFERN ST – March 4 & 18. multiply the numbers you get Contact Yvonne on 0415 226 854. All welcome. 4930. What are the numbers?

T ag your Instagram pics #sshphotos and we will include 5 of the best photos, from all suburbs in South Sydney, here each month. See all photos online: southsydneyherald.com.au SSHSelected by Claire MahjoubInstagram Gallery

Erskineville CBD Alexandria Redfern Redfern @andrewhcollis @cm_pics @vintonn @es_tr @vintonn March 2015 COMMUNITY NOTICES 15

Uniting Churches

Waterloo local David South Sydney Uniting Church Young is taking part in the World’s Greatest Shave in 56a Raglan St, Waterloo support of the Leukaemia Worship (Eucharist) 10am Sunday Foundation. Rev. Andrew Collis 0438 719 470 He will be shaved on www.southsydneyuniting.org.au March 9: 9am at Mercy Prior to the NSW government’s Going Home, Staying Arms and 10am at The Heffron Candidates’ Forum Home reforms, there were up to 100 specialist women’s Factory Community The Sacred Lounge Centre. Donations March 11, 7-8.30pm refuges across the state. By 2014 they had been cut to 14. Cnr St Johns Rd & gladly received. Please Alexandria Town Hall HOWEVER, advocates of women’s refuges have been Colbourne Ave, Glebe send pledges to the Alexandria Residents Action Group (ARAG) in conjunction campaigning for restoration funding to inner-city services SSH: [email protected]. Worship 7pm Sunday with Friends of Erskineville (FOE) and REDWatch will host a … AND in late October 2014, were successful in doing so. au – please include your ‘Colbourne Ave’ intimate phone number. candidates’ forum for the seat of Heffron. Labor, Liberal and THERE IS STILL MORE TO BE DONE. Greens candidates have confirmed. candlelit concerts 8pm Thursday Needed: Continued government funding for Crisis Services; Office 9518 9413 Candidates will address three questions as part of their 24/7 on-call support; increased accommodation; female www.sacredlounge.org.au 10-minute presentations. The questions relate to: staffing, specialist services in trauma. Would you like to make a difference in someone’s • Westconnex HELP! Donate. Campaign. Share. For more information go to: www.soswomensservices.com life? Leichhardt Uniting Church • Planning and infrastructure Volunteers with empathy Artwork by Lotte Smith. 3 Wetherill St, Leichhardt • Sale of Australian Technology Park required on a weekly (near Norton St, free parking or fortnightly basis to behind church) provide companionship to someone who is lonely Worship 10am & 6.30pm Sunday and/or socially isolated. Rev. Dr John Hirt 0408 238 117 Women’s Volunteers’ news Please contact Kate at www.leichhardtuniting.org.au Reconciliation Pat Clarke Catholic Community Network Services on 0439 898 533 It’s hard to believe that we’ve reached March already, and or [email protected] Newtown Mission The next Women’s another busy month it is too. BABANA Reconciliation Network 280 King St Newtown Aboriginal Meeting will be held on Saturday March 7 – Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade Worship 9.30am & 6pm Sunday Men’s Group THURSDAY NOVEMBER 27, 2014 Along Oxford Street and commences at 7.30pm until Rev. Graeme Tutt Babana Shed 10.30pm. Get along early to secure your spot. open Mon-Fri 10AM-12PM at the Redfern Waterloo 9519 9000 Community Centre Sunday March 15 – St Patrick’s Day Parade and www.newtownmission.org.au (72 Renwick St, Redfern) Recycling Hugo Street Redfern. Family Day Workshop Contact: Mark Spinks 10am cuppa followed by Starting in George Street at Bathurst Street at 10.30am, this meeting till 12 noon Workshop and market open Paddington Uniting Church 0411 282 917 is the fourth largest St Pat’s day in the world after New York, Fridays 9am-12pm. 395 Oxford St, Paddington Dublin and Boston. St Patrick’s real day is March 17. Turungah Flats, 1 Phillip St, Waterloo (lower car park). Worship 10.30am & Sunday March 15 – Also the annual Bairro Portuguese Affordable furniture and 7.30pm Sunday Food & Wine Fair at New Canterbury Road, Petersham, household goods. Rev. Ben Gilmour which celebrates everything Portuguese. Donations gladly received Office 9331 2646 Thursday March 26 – First day of the Royal Easter Show (no white goods or www.paddingtonuca.org.au electrical apps). at Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park, finishing on April 8. This is also the first day of the Easter Festival which Volunteers welcome (phone Naomi on 0407 576 098). Pitt Street Uniting Church ends on Easter Monday. The Orthodox Easter in Australia is 264 Pitt St, Sydney Sunday April 12 this year. Worship 10am Sunday Saturday March 28 is the State Election – Voting Rev. Dr Margaret Mayman is compulsory. There have been changes to many State Office 9267 3614 electorate boundaries, so please be sure to check beforehand www.pittstreetuniting.org.au for your new electorate. There are ways of pre-voting, including postal voting and pre-poll voting, and a new iVote for persons impaired or living a long way from a Wayside Chapel polling booth. 29 Hughes St, Potts Point Until next time. REDWatch Worship 10am Sunday Meetings first Thursday Rev. Graham Long of the month at The Factory Pat Clarke & Ross Smith Community Centrte. Office 9581 9100 Phone Geoffrey Turnbull [email protected] www.thewaysidechapel.com (02) 8004 1490. Email [email protected]

YOUR LOCAL MEMBERS

Tanya Plibersek MP Malcolm Turnbull MP Jamie Parker MP Ron Hoenig MP Alex Greenwich 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 & FITNESS March 2015 Register now Defending premiers for the Rovers primed for glory

Perry Johnstone 4.30pm at Erskineville Oval. Michael Page meeting. “Jesus is really a coach, Our club welcomes all returning his apostles are the players and I A nother season of footy players, team officials and sponsors What do you do after you will almost be working as the Holy is about to kick off for the for 2015 and encourages anyone win a premiership? Change the Spirit with them behind the scenes.” Alexandria Rovers in 2015. The interested in joining us as a player, captain of course. Then get a new If the early signs are any club, formed in 1948, has one of volunteer or sponsor to head CEO. And begin the season by indication, Lee and Souths may the proudest and most successful down to the oval to check it out. winning every trophy in sight. not need divine intervention in histories within the South Sydney We provide free registration, defending their title in 2015. District. The club has won a total jumper, shorts and socks, As things turned out, there was Guided by Adam Reynolds’ of 78 premierships since its debut and presentation gear at a bit more to the replacement of astute kicking, Souths took a season and is currently riding the end of the season. John Sutton as captain than coach serious and methodical approach an eight-year streak of at least The Alexandria Rovers has Maguire’s early exhortations. Sutton to the Auckland Nines, and despite one premiership win each year. enjoyed a great past and has an and Luke Burgess’ alcohol-fuelled getting a late shock from Cronulla, even greater future. S transit from an Arizona bar to a added another trophy. A relatively The club has had 81 men who police cell didn’t help. But putting understrength Isaac Luke-led team have gone on to play NRL football For more information regarding the that aside, the ascension of Souths rallied to draw level and retain the and a total of 10 players who have Alexandria Rovers JRLFC, head over to and possibly the world’s best player Charity Shield. To cap things off, Illustration: Adrian Spry represented their country in either our club’s official website Greg Inglis to captain, makes sense. Souths voyaged to a cold and wet rugby league or rugby union. www.alexandriarovers.com.au Although a loyal servant and astute northern England and quickly and Inglis lifting the trophy in October. Training commences on Perry Johnstone is the Club Secretary footballer, Sutton always appeared efficiently routed St Helens 39-0 to There is something about Adam Wednesday March 4 from for Alexandria Rovers JRLFC. awkward and reluctant both with win the World Cup Challenge. Reynolds’ authoritative approach the media and in approaching Trophies aside, the real test will and Luke Keary’s cheeky plays that referees. Although Inglis can begin this month. Much will be says Souths might well possess himself be somewhat reserved, he written about how it is hard to win the best halves combination in the commands enormous respect from back-to-back NRL premierships. competition. There is something referees and his presence in those Much will be written about whether in Dylan Walker’s swagger and vital captain’s right “discussions” a Souths without Sam Burgess (or Alex Johnston’s shimmies that will only benefit Souths. Ben T’eo for that matter) can reach says they will continue to take The departure of CEO Shane the same heights as 2014. There’s on and beat defences with speed Civic Richardson is a lot less colourful only one Sammy Burgess, and and guile. And while Souths may and controversial. His 11-year the replacements, the canny yet be a couple of Burgesses shorter, quest to deliver a premiership now injury-prone Glen Stewart and out of the twin boppers George and over, the ambitious Richardson has favour Penrith prop Tim Grant, will Tom will no doubt continue to moved to a role at the NRL. His have big shoes to fill. And Souths disturb teams all year with their Plumbing replacement John Lee, with solid will have a target on its forehead. earth-shaking runs and defence. experience in senior management Everyone loves to beat the premiers. So how will Souths fair in 2015? Ranked No. 1 for Customer Satisfaction roles in the public and non-profit But there is something in the Without Sammy, T’eo and Richo? sectors, has big shoes to fill, and way coach Maguire has prepared Without divine intervention? South 23 Turner Street, Redfern oddly hinted at getting support from the team for 2015 that says that it is Sydney Herald’s bold prediction: 1st ... M 0410 790 630 the heavens in his inaugural press not infeasible that we will see Greg South Sydney marches on! S E [email protected] W www.civicplumbingsydney.com.au

Assure Psychology RAVENS Urban Nature wellbeing centre 216 enmore rd (cnr edgeware Rd) enmore nsw 2042 RUNNING C aring, confidential psychological services to help you deal with life’s difficulties GROUP Bulk billing available on referral from GP The Ravens meet each Sunday at 5pm at Redfern Oval Contact Elizabeth Munro on 0408 612 808 (Cnr Phillip & Chalmers Sts in Redfern). New members or at [email protected] (and beginners) welcome! Phone Adrian on 9690 1427.