Darling Magazine | Winter 2023 | Edition 10

Rozelle

Brand new 1, 2 & 3 bedroom residences.

A new era of local luxury begins. Shaped by leading names in Australian design, Rozelle Village will redefine living with unsurpassed beauty and the rarest of vantage points.

Here, exquisitely composed residences are surrounded by never-before-seen vistas of the harbour, city and bays.

Outside, roof gardens and the village plaza below invite you to a lifestyle and a place like no other.

to the 10th edition of Darling! When we started this magazine back in late 2020, we said it would be the community that makes Darling great. We’ve met so many inspiring people over the years and there will never be a shortage of local legends to celebrate and acknowledge in this magazine.

This edition features the stories of young local hero Arran Keith, Rozelle based milliner Catherine Kelly, and Aunty Glenda Stubbs, an Inner West Elder. We also attended the premiere of the third series of Amazing Grace, filmed right here in Balmain. Read the story about Grace in this edition. Last month, eleven brave dancers from local businesses participated in Dance for Dementia raising more than $110,000. Darling is made by locals, for locals. So if you have a story to share, please get in touch with us.

With increased costs, it’s a difficult time for everyone, but local businesses in particular are doing it tough. If you can, please support them. There’s always something new to discover on our high street, and maybe even a new croissant to try!

Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee

Publisher: Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce

Front cover: Inner West Perfect Match Mural featuring Arran Keith

Artist: Scott Marsh

All material is protected by the Copyright Act. No part of this publication may be produced without permission. Whilst every care has been taken in producing this information, it does not guarantee accuracy. All prices and information are correct at time of print.

To enquire about future issues, please contact us on balmainrozelle@gmail.com

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work, the Gadigal and Wangal peoples of the Eora nation, and pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

Winter 2023

Team Darling

We can’t believe we’re celebrating 10 editions of Darling! Thank you to all our readers and local businesses for supporting us. If you have a story to share, we’d love to hear from you!

Annelie and Belinda

A special thank you to our supporters and contributors who have donated their time and services:

Guest Writers: Marc Bennie, Tara Eales Our volunteer letterbox walkers

Thank you to our Creative Team at The Gallery for bringing this issue to life.

@thegallery.design thegallery.design

Come and join the Balmain Rozelle Chamber of Commerce

We are a group of local business owners who support and advocate for businesses in Balmain and Rozelle. Our volunteer Executive Committee represent a diverse range of businesses and industries.

Join us so we can make a bigger difference together! Membership benefits include:

Networking opportunities

Directory listing in quarterly Darling

Access to member-only events

· Business advocacy and support

· Full listing on digital directory

· Monthly news updates

· Access to the chamber’s social channels

· Automatic membership to Business NSW

Inclusion in precinct marketing opportunities

Five minutes with...

Kobi Shetty has served as an Inner West Councillor since 2021 and earlier this year she was elected to NSW Parliament representing Balmain for the Greens. She’s also a long-term Lilyfield local.

What did you do before politics?

I managed fraud prevention teams that worked to stop internet banking and credit card fraud. It was interesting work, and I saw a lot of vulnerable people who were targeted financially through scams. That experience has inspired my passion for gambling reform. There are many similarities between people falling victim to gambling and people who are victims of scams.

What made you get into politics?

I always knew I wanted to work for the community, but never had dreams of becoming a politician. In my thirties I went back to uni to study community development and sustainability. Having kids just increased my determination to hand over a liveable planet. Through my work locally on climate action and other campaigns I was fortunate to be able to stand for council, and then for state parliament.

What’s the biggest local issue you’re currently working on in parliament?

There are so many! One that I’m focusing on is improving our local public transport services and getting the buses returned to public ownership. We know that if buses and ferries are more reliable, less people will drive, which is good for both the community and the environment.

Share a hidden gem of the area

How long have you lived in the area?

We moved to Lilyfield in 2015 after renting in Balmain and Rozelle. We always loved the Orange Grove Markets, and now our three kids go to school there and we absolutely love the community.

What do you love most about this neighbourhood?

The people. They say that it takes a village to raise a child, and I’ve got an awesome bunch of local parents who look out for each other and jump in when someone needs a hand.

Balmain Rowing Club is a beautiful club near Elkington Park that has just undergone an amazing renovation, thanks to the hard work of the executive committee and members. It’s such an important heritage building, a great community hub, and makes rowing accessible for lots of different people.

What’s your favourite spot on the peninsula? I have spent a lot of time over the years having picnics with my family at the end of Elkington Park looking out over the water. It’s a really magical spot.

Photo by Captar Photo

COMMUNITY Together we run

The new mural on the corner of Darling Street and Victoria Road, captures local hero Arran Keith in a special moment with his supporters, doing one of his favourite activities – running. Darling spoke to Arran and his family about how having a disability has not prevented him from achieving anything. One of Arran’s first words was “I do it” and living in this great community of Rozelle, Arran is definitely doing it!

The photo which inspired the mural, is Arran doing one of his favourite activities - running the bay run with a group of friends. Arran says, “Able-bodied or with a disability we run together, as one group, not two.”

“I am very lucky to live in a great and supportive community that accepts me for who I am, and I cannot thank the Rozelle community and Running Science enough for all they have done. Since my SEML double leg surgery in September 2022, I have been supported by my family, my local community, my high school and my best friends to get back to walking again, being independent and frame running with mates which I love”, says Arran.

When Running Science moved to its new location, Fletcher the owner thought a mural representing our community with Arran at the centre would be perfect for the prominent corner. The mural was delivered as part of Inner West Council’s Perfect Match program and iconic street artist Scott Marsh was engaged to bring the mural to life. The landlord, Harrold from ICC Development Group was also in full support, making sure this materialised. Like a lot of successful initiatives, it was a team effort!

Arran Keith

Setting the scene for the mural

At 3 months old, Arran was diagnosed with CP, the type called mixed spastic dystonic quadriplegia. Since then, Arran’s family has made sure that he was able to be included in everything that he wanted to do.

Arran is competitive and loves sport. He has done swimming, soccer, athletics, NRL, cycling, climbing, running, and even the odd triathlon. He ran the 3km Balmain Fun Run in his walker frame at age 8 and was cheered to the finish line. This is where Arran met Fletcher and the team from Running Science and iMove Physiotherapy. That run changed Arran’s life and people’s perception of him and he of himself, through the local running community. At age 9, Arran was the first person to represent Australia internationally in race-running in the World Para-Athletics in Denmark. He came away with three world records!

The youngest of two kids, Arran has a fantastic big sister Roxy who is always around to keep him in check. Arran is now 14 years old and in year 8 at the fully accessible Inner Sydney High School, commuting via the light rail

from Lilyfield to central station and then onto school independently.

Richard, Arran’s Dad said “It takes a village to raise a child, that is true of any kid and most important when one is born with a disability such as CP. As a family, we have endeavoured to actively engage Arran in all aspects of Rozelle community life. From going to St Thomas Day Care, then Rozelle Public School to enjoying gozleme at the Orange Grove Markets every Saturday. From the start, we have been very open, honest, and transparent. We are always prepared to explain what CP is to anyone who asks, sometimes even if they don’t! Importantly we have sought for people to talk with Arran directly.”

“Rozelle has engaged Arran as a person, not as his disability. With openness, a willingness to listen, to ask respectful and curious questions, to challenge commonly held assumptions about the capabilities of a person successfully living with a physical disability.”

“To know Arran as a friend, a school mate, and not as ‘that disabled kid in a walker’ is key to his growth as a young person.”

Sunday 16 July, 12pm

All welcome

Arran receiving the Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year award

“As a person living with a disability like cerebral palsy (CP), being and actually feeling included in your local community is what’s important!”

Mural Launch Community Celebration

Empowering your health

Stress and workplace burnout are on the increase and people are looking for ways to gain more balance in their lives. The new City Cave Float and Wellness Centre in Balmain offers the perfect antidote to modern technology, tension and exhaustion.

Owners of City Cave Balmain, Fiona and Duncan Harcourt know what it’s like to have busy lives. After many years working in corporate jobs and being surrounded by stress and work overload of colleagues, they knew their next venture would need to focus on health and wellbeing. Fiona said, “The services we offer give our customers peace from their hectic schedules. A chance to stop and relax. As soon as they walk into the centre, the calm and subdued surroundings give our clients a sense of instant relaxation. Our regular customers see the health benefits, both mentally and physically.”

“We have lived in the area previously and love the Balmain Rozelle community. It’s truly unique how friendly and welcoming it is here. We only hire locals as we are building a community. If we can help make this a healthier community, that would be our goal achieved”, said Duncan.

City Cave is a unique holistic wellness centre that combines complementary services in a single location. The City Cave Balmain is a warm and welcoming environment putting a whole new perspective on health and wellbeing - no longer do you need to walk into the stark, cold and lifeless environment of a clinic or practice.

City Cave Balmain boasts three open float pools, three infrared saunas and three massage rooms, one of which is dedicated to couples for their Couples Wellness Experience. A must try is the all-encompassing 3-hour package including all three of these services! The treatment includes a 45 minute couples Infrared Sauna, 60 minute couples Float Therapy session, and a relaxing 45 minute massage that completes the experience. The ultimate day of indulgence easily shared with someone special!

Float Therapy

Float Therapy is fast becoming the number one natural treatment for stress and anxiety worldwide.

The Float Therapy experience involves lying in a pool filled with 400kg of Epsom salts, with water perfectly heated to match your external body temperature. You will quickly be transported into a deep state of theta relaxation. Your body and mind progress into a meditative state for an optimal healing process. This state helps heal the body, reduces stress and anxiety, and immerses the body in deep relaxation.

Contrary to popular belief, float therapy is not a new phenomenon. The first flotation device was invented in 1954 by Dr John C. Lilly. He was a neuropsychiatrist interested in the effects of sensory deprivation and how this impacted the conscious state of the brain.

While float therapy has grown in popularity recently, City Cave Balmain provides an entirely different experience than traditional float therapy pods. Utilising a serene, wide-open float room rather than a closed-in float pod has established a distinct point of difference in the float therapy experience. The float pools are the size of a double bed, allowing users to navigate the float experience on their terms (and allowing plenty of space for two!). You can opt to have the lights on or music playing, or you can feel the full effects of sensory deprivation by turning off the lights and lying in stillness.

Benefits of Float Therapy:

• Decreases stress and anxiety

• Improves mood

• Decreases chronic fatigue

• Pain management and reduced inflammation

• Improves sleep quality

• Boosts creativity and mindfulness

Infrared Sauna

The Infrared Sauna generates the same heat naturally produced by the sun and our bodies. This heat can sink deep below the skin, creating a gentle warming inside of the body. It’s like spending the day in the sun without UV rays! This provides extensive health benefits, including pain relief, increased circulation, skin purification and muscle relaxation.

During your sauna session, you can connect to Bluetooth or WiFi and listen to a podcast or listen to music, read a book, or choose to relax quietly. With an Infrared Sauna, you get a deeper sweat that pushes out more toxins from your body, which promotes healing on all levels, including molecularly. The Infrared Sauna experience will leave you feeling relaxed, detoxified and rejuvenated.

New kids on the block

A new store opening in our neighbourhood is exciting, and another reason to stay local and enjoy something new.

Ziippup is Australia’s first dog lead with a built-in poop bag holder. The leads are made from recycled plastic bottles instead of polyester like most other dog leads on the market. The built-in poop bag holder is made from stretchy jersey material and will hold a full standard roll of poop bags. Or you can store your keys, dog treats or even your headphones in there.

Owner Annelie says, “I was looking for a sustainable lead and an alternative to those dangly poop bag holders that break all the time. I thought there must be a better solution out there but there wasn’t – so I designed one!”

ZIIPPUP ziippup.com | ziippup

White Waratah Boutique Thai Massage and Infrared Sauna offers a new spa experience in the heart of Rozelle. The beautiful space and friendly professional therapists will make you feel instantly relaxed. Choose from a range of massage types, including Thai, remedial and deep tissue, body scrubs and infrared sauna.

Owner Charles says, “If you’re looking for date ideas, our couples’ treatments are the perfect choice! Relax with a herbal tea on arrival as you unwind and look forward to some quality time together. You can choose from a number of treatments, but I recommend a luxurious foot spa massage or hot stones massage followed by an infrared sauna.”

WHITE WARATAH

709A Darling St, Rozelle | whitewaratah.com.au

Fancy Nancy is the latest addition to the Rozelle café scene. Owner Henry named the café after his beloved mother. “My mum Nancy has an affinity for all things fancy and she tends to exaggerate so we lovingly refer to her as ‘Fancy Nancy’. To add a touch of humility to her extravagant taste, I wanted to strike a balance between elegance and approachability.”

The café is designed to give customers a comfortable and relaxing experience whether you’re popping in for a quick cup of coffee, spending the morning working from ‘home’ or enjoying a delicious meal. The menu focuses on high quality produce and has something for everyone.

FANCY NANCY

97 Victoria Rd, Rozelle | fancynancy.au

About Design Consultations

The

Whether

The power of colour

Colours have the power to transform spaces and evoke emotions. Have you ever asked yourself why you feel energised when you step into a bright yellow room and relaxed when you’re in a soft green space. Darling sat down with Kym Shields from FINEPRINTCO to learn more about colour psychology.

Colours have a remarkable ability to affect your mood, energy levels, and even appetite. Warm colours like red and orange can ignite passion and excitement, while cool tones like blue and green promote relaxation and calmness. Kym says, “Understanding the psychology behind colours allows you to curate an atmosphere that perfectly suits your desired ambiance. And it goes beyond just the colour of your walls – furniture, art and soft furnishings all play a part.”

Blue

Blue is known for its calming and tranquil qualities. It can create a sense of peace and enhance productivity, making it a perfect choice for bedrooms, offices, or areas where you want to foster a relaxing atmosphere.

Green

Green represents nature, growth and harmony. It has a soothing effect and promotes a sense of balance and tranquillity. Green is an excellent choice for bedrooms and living rooms, or spaces where you want to bring a touch of nature inside.

Red

Red is the colour of love and passion. It demands attention and can evoke strong emotions, even increase appetite! Use red sparingly in areas where you want to create an intimate atmosphere or a sense of warmth.

Pink

Pink has long been a popular choice for nurseries but it’s also a great choice for bathrooms and powder rooms. Pink can give the space a touch of glamour, elegance and a spa-like feel. The pink glow will make your complexion look fabulous!

Yellow

Synonymous with happiness and sunshine, yellow will add energy to any space. Incorporate accents of yellow in kitchens, creative spaces and other areas where you want to infuse a sense of positivity.

When working with colour, Kym says “The most important aspect of interior design is to create a space that resonates with you so don’t be afraid to add your own personal style. If you want a bold green Slim Aarons photograph on your dining room wall – go for it!”

A taste of Argentina

Atticus Hospitality purchased the former Efendy restaurant site in the midst of the 2021 lockdown. After two years of planning and a complete redesign of the venue, they are ready to start the build which is scheduled to be completed late this year. Darling chats with owner and local resident Michael Fegent.

Michael, you have two successful restaurants, Tequila Mockingbird in Paddington and Esteban in the city. Why Balmain for your third venture?

Put simply, I love Balmain. I am a local from Mort Bay. My son goes to Birchgrove Public School. I remember the old days when Balmain was pumping and you could have a night out with afternoon drinks, dinner and even a late-night dance. I want to contribute to bringing that back and now is the time.

What can locals expect from your new restaurant?

Balmain has such an amazing pub culture, with ample pizza and Asian fusion restaurants but I think it needs more diversity. There are minimal offerings for people who don’t want

to drink beer and house wine. Our big focus is the food offering. The restaurant concept is Argentinean, so it is all about cooking with fire. We have a custom-made Asado BBQ that is literally the size of a bedroom where we will be cooking on numerous types of wood to add unique flavours to the produce. And don’t worry vegetarians and vegans, we have you covered!

Beverage wise, we have a curated selection of wines from South America, Spain and Italy.

How did you get your inspiration for this new restaurant?

The inspiration came from the number of Uber trips I have made to Esteban (in the city) or Tequila Mockingbird (Paddington). I often have a craving for our 1 kilo tomahawk steak,

slow-cooked over charcoal for two hours, or I want to drink our signature cocktail, the Tequila Mockingbird. I thought that it would all taste so much better being sipped in this beautiful Balmain courtyard where the restaurant is being built. To date, Atticus Hospitality has had a Latin American focus and I thought that Argentinean food would be the perfect fit for the area, keeping in line with our brand.

Are there any unique or signature dishes for which your restaurant will be known?

Will Quartel (Head Chef) and I just got back from a three-week culinary journey across Argentina, so we are just starting to put pen to paper for the menu so it’s early days. Right now, we are working on a pork dish rubbed in toasted chile de arbol and confit éléphant garlic. The meat is cured for 24 hours, smoked and slow-cooked for 48 hours.

Can you describe the atmosphere you aim to create?

The beauty of this building is that the bones of the restaurant are so amazing with the focus being around the courtyard and its

leafy surrounds. The ground floor will have a beautiful long bar where guests can pop in for a drink and light tapas style snacks and watch the chefs cook over the open charcoal BBQ. The mezzanine floor has a private dining room that also acts as a wine cellar with the focus on Argentinean, Spanish and Italian wines. The first floor opens onto a large balcony and is designed for both larger groups and normal a la carte dining. We will be able to facilitate large group bookings for up to 75 people. We are putting a lot of emphasis on creating an offering where people can come in and have a well-priced meal on a Tuesday night or go all out on the weekend or a special occasion.

What have the past few years taught you as a restaurant owner?

Make sure you know your audience and always think outside the box. I also learned that no matter what happens in the world, people need to eat and drink! Whether you are cooped up at home looking after kids or working hard in the office, people need an escape and a place to meet and converse. Restaurants and bars play that role.

What’s your favourite restaurant in Sydney? No bias here but Esteban and Tequila

Mockingbird of course. There is also this Argentinean restaurant and bar opening in Balmain soon that I am looking forward too!

RESTAURANT NAME: REVEALED SOON ATTICUS HOSPITALITY

79 Elliott Street, Balmain atticushospitality.com.au

Where locals meet

The Local Bar is a hidden gem in Rozelle. Its entrance is unassuming, but what you find inside is a place where locals meet, strangers talk to each other and the cosy atmosphere is a home away from home. With happy hour specials and weekly promotions, there’s something waiting for you after work, or on the weekends. Enjoy a cocktail, a quick beer or stay for a bite to eat.

The venue also offers exclusive function rooms that are perfect for any event. The building once housed the famed restaurant Tetsuya’s but now this quaint conversion is a rare find offering privacy and exclusivity to host a birthday celebration, work party or private function with live music and great food. The team can take any event brief and create a memorable experience for you and your friends.

Ginza Six

Local Bar’s Ginza Six cocktail is a modernday reinterpretation of Tokyo’s most historical commercial district where Japan’s finest culture meets high-end shopping.

• 60ml Tenjaku Japanese gin

• 30ml Yuzu syrup

• 15ml Lemon juice

• Small handful of fresh mint.

Method: Smack the mint to release the aroma. Add all ingredients to a shaker. Add ice and shake hard. Fine strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a single mint leaf.

Fit for a king

Local atelier and award-winning hat maker Catherine Kelly has made hats for celebrities for years, but the latest brief has been her most regal. The brief was to design a hat for Jodie Haydon for the King’s Coronation ceremony. Jodie was accompanying her partner, Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese for the once-in-a-lifetime event.

Catherine said, “Jodie had her dress already made and the idea was to match the dress to the hat for ultimate elegance. The fabric of the dress and an idea of a style helped to guide the project. We tried on lots of samples and headpieces that we already had made to see which silhouettes and styles she preferred.”

“We searched our block collection for options and I made some prototypes of shapes so that Jodie could see proportion and comfort. We knew the hat had to be worn all day and therefore had to be comfortable, and also discreet and appropriate for the occasion.”

And it all started with Darling. On a local visit to Balmain, our local federal member and Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was given copies of the Darling magazine. Featured in the magazine was local millinery store, Embellish Atelier and Jodie made an instant choice to support a local business in the electorate of Grayndler.

Catherine said, “It is definitely a career highlight and such a privilege to make a hat for this once-in-a-generation event.” Catherine also had to work under strict confidence making the importance of the job even more special.

Many Australian attendees to the King’s Coronation chose Australian designers and Jodie was no exception. Her dress was designed by Karen Gee, a Sydney based designer who, to minimise textile waste, only produces made-to-order fashion.

The same material as the dress was used in keeping with the whole look. “The dress material was thick which was quite tricky but we experimented with different ways of using the fabric and created a sample with the fabric and trim ideas as a first start. There’s nothing like a challenge to create a perfect result!”

Catherine Kelly, Embellish Atelier

When news hit that a local milliner had made the hat, the excitement was shared with the whole Balmain and Rozelle community. Messages of support on social media were pouring in for Catherine and her team, and it was a memorable moment to see a local independent store featured on the world stage.

The meticulous process of hat-making:

1. Chose blocked buckram base. Two layers were used to provide a firm foundation.

2. Adjusted the depth and corrected the head fit.

3. Wire in the head fit.

4. Made a pattern from the block.

5. Cut fabric from that pattern.

6. Fuse fabric to tip to maintain shape.

7. Stitched tip down.

8. Created bias that was then doubled for the sideband.

9. Handstitched side band.

10. Created trim.

11. Stitched on trim.

12. Attached head fit.

13. Inserted lining.

14. Ready for hat fitting!

Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese and Jodie Haydon

With Grace

With great support from the Balmain community, award winning web series amazing Grace was filmed locally over seven years. The series follows Grace through daily life without her dad and reflects her real experiences of seeking her Dad’s advice in life’s critical moments. In the third and final season, Grace is studying for her HSC.

When Grace was 10 years old, her Dad suddenly died, and soon after, Grace started to lose memories of him. Drawing on her Mum’s experience as a TV and film director/producer, they decided to create a web series to keep these memories alive. Grace says, “I’ve had an opportunity to get to know Dad better, because in writing the series I’ve heard stories from friends and family about Dad that I never knew before.”

The community of Balmain has been involved in the series over the whole seven years. Julie says, “Jeff was known and loved in the community and his death affected not just us, but everyone who knew him. When we launched the first fundraiser for the first episodes the community jumped in to help us with contributions and support for catering, use of locations and volunteering as crew and extras. Over the years this has grown even more and is something we are in awe of and truly grateful for.”

This final season is more hectic than previous ones as Grace is studying for her HSC. Overwhelmed by the experience, everything you see on screen is depicting what Grace went through off screen. “That chaotic studying was all part of my experience leading up to the exams. I went down a rabbit hole and during my first exam I panicked. It was a challenging time for me because I’d loved

school and the subjects I studied, but I just became overwhelmed. Writing this new series was a way for me to move forward.”

Since the beginning of the series, Grace has always had the opportunity to write for her own character. However, in the final season, Julie encouraged her to step up and be the lead writer. “When it came to plotting series

“It’s important to share stories to feel connected to the people we love, and that is one of the key messages of this latest series.”

Grace with her Dad, Jeff Truman

three, many of the scenes were clear in my mind. We had a whiteboard in the dining room we would work on. As the three episodes developed, Mum said it was my story to tell. I loved the writing process, because it allowed me to articulate the thoughts and feelings I had swirling in my head.”

There wasn’t always meant to be three series but after a road trip together, Julie and Grace decided they had one more story to share. Julie says, “The series was always evolving, and we wanted it to be ongoing as we watched Grace grow up. We thought we were done after series two, but when Grace finished her HSC and shared her experience, a friend joked that it sounded like an episode of amazing Grace. So, on a road trip just after the exams we talked about it and thought it was a new story we wanted to tell. But you never know, there could be other stories in the future that could become episodes. Never say never.”

amazing Grace has inspired Grace to pursue a career in the creative industry and she’s currently studying a double degree in Advanced Science and Arts at UNSW. “I am passionate about science (something I inherited from my Dad, I think) and I love writing and performing. My current aspiration is to be a science communicator, so that I can keep exploring all the areas of science that I’m curious about and I can share what I’m learning with an audience.”

Grace with her onscreen Mum played by Justine Clarke

Grace and her Mum, Julie Money WATCH AND SUPPORT AMAZING GRACE

For Our Elders

NAIDOC week is held across Australia in the first week of July each year to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of First Nations peoples. To celebrate and honour the 2023 theme, ‘For Our Elders’, Darling’s guest writer Marc Bennie had the pleasure of interviewing living legend Aunty Glendra Stubbs.

NAIDOC week has its roots in the 1938 day of mourning, one of the earliest formal protests against the callous treatment of our First Nations people. It appealed to the Australian nation to make laws for the education and care of First Nation peoples, and a new policy to give full citizen status to their people.

Aunty Glendra is a Wiradjuri woman who grew up in the Warrimoo area of the Blue Mountains “without a heap of material possessions but rich in family love” saying that “knowing where you come from and your place means family will be there for you”.

Aunty Glendra currently holds Elder In Residence positions with the University Of Technology Sydney, National Centre of Indigenous Excellence, ID Know Yourself and Knowmore Legal Centre. Aunty Glendra says these roles “Provide a person you can talk to when you don’t know who else to talk to, someone that has your best interests at heart and is not going to be judgmental and has life experience to back up their support.”

With over 40 years of providing practical advice and assistance to survivors of trauma and families working through issues that arise from out-of-home care Aunty Glendra says, “There is nothing that you can think of that I haven’t seen, witnessed or been a part of.” She sees the roles of Elders as twofold, ensuring they are making a difference and sharing the narrative of hope beyond struggle.

She says Elders play a unique role in healing, justice and sharing of knowledge. Aunty Glendra’s way of doing this is through the simplicity of a yarn - telling stories around

the kitchen table or campfire. Aunt says the best opportunity to engage with issues that affect First Nations people in 2023 is by supporting the Voice to Parliament campaign with “simple, calm and positive messaging”.

As always, Aunty Glendra finishes the conversation with a gift. The offer to help in any way that encourages everyone to walk together with First Nations peoples.

Here’s your guide to shop local.

Cafés

Bertoni

Art

ART Gallery on Darling

Artspark Studio

Balmain Art Studio

Julius Haag Sculpture

Kirana Haag

Lara Scolari Gallery

Paper Rock Scissors

Art Studios

Bars

The Local Bar

The Lodge Bar

Beauty

Brown Sugar Rozelle

Emma Dean Salon

Hairlab by George

Health & Home Balmain

Maxx Cosmetica

Oaks Hair Salon

Books

Hill of Content

Wendy Milton Books

Gifts

Bits of Australia

Contessa Balmain

Dirty Red Rozelle

Hungry Bull Co. Balmain

Sandy Bake Shop

The Old Rosebud

Fashion

Blue Illusion

Embellish Atelier

Hester Fleming Vintage

Husk

Infancy

Lin & Barrett Lingerie

Shoes in the Attic

Sportscraft

Venla

Vie Vie S

Food & Drink

Bonfire Bread

Cheese Celebration

Lily Fields Distilling Co

The Balmain Barmaid

The Dinner Co.

White Bay Beer

Wong She & Co.

Pure Objective

Rozelle Collectors Markets

Two Baskets

Health & Wellness

Balmain Health Club

Balmain Vision

Beattie Street

Health Studio

Body Ethos

City Cave Balmain

CryoCare Clinic

Hearlix

Home Thai Massage Rozelle

Lilyfield Physiotherapy

PT Vision Balmain

RedoHealth

Running Science

Sydney Spine & Sports Centre

The Eye Piece

The Well Store

Wall’s Pharmacy

White Waratah Boutique

Thai Massage & Infrared Sauna

Home

Alena Smith

Interior Design

Angel Aromatics

Ballast Point

Bumph and Scumble Design

Fineprintco

Furniture Noir

Global Conduct

Home Industry

M2 Styling + Interiors

Mecque

Punch Gallery

That Plant Shop

The Heater Man

The Wood Cave

Local services

Art of Bloom Balmain

Brads Bike Services

Inner Sydney

Montessori School

Milk & Honey Photography

Rozelle Plumbing

Sydney Community College

Together2

TooUp Sailing Pets

Bark Busters

Inner West Sydney

Ziippup

Pubs

3 Weeds

Cat & Fiddle Hotel

Sackville Hotel

The London Hotel

The Royal Oak Balmain

Professional services

Accura Lending

Avocado Communications

Bespoke Investment Group

Computer Troubleshooters

Rozelle

Decision Health

GW E-marketing

Helm Finance

Inner West ActionCOACH

Marzy Management

MEK Consulting Pty Ltd

Morgan + English

Commercial Lawyers

Nexia Australia

Other Side of the Table

Spectrum Wealth Partners

Speer Finance

Syrinx Corp

Texture Collective

The Marketing Edit

Xperienced

Real estate

Belinda Cassano Real Estate Services

ICC Group Rozelle

Laing+Simmons Balmain

McGrath Balmain

Parker Hadley

Buyers Agent

Ray White Rozelle

Rozelle Village

Restaurants

Alegrias Spanish Tapas

Atticus Hospitality

Cantina Bar

Dolce Napoli Restaurant

L’Auberge

The Reverie Cat

Tipo “00” Balmain

To learn more about these BRCC member businesses visit balmainrozelle.org.au

Twenty years strong

In the 20 years Contessa has been the brunch hot spot of Balmain, more than 40 food outlets have opened and closed in the area. Darling sat down with owner Marco to uncover their secret to success.

In 2003, Marco’s wife Rosa was running Bambini on Darling, a successful children’s clothing store. Working in real estate at the time, Marco had always dreamt of opening a café. “I come from a family of Italian chefs and have always worked in hospitality. Even when I worked in real estate I’d work extra in hospitality, not because I needed the money, but because I loved it.”

In those days you couldn’t just open a café, you had to buy an existing one. “We knew Balmain well and when we bought Bar Contessa (est. 1991) it had regular customers from the Courthouse and Guardianship Tribunal nearby. Little did we know that they would both close within two years. Our regulars disappeared, and we had to work hard to find new ones.”

With no other café in the area serving brunch, Marco saw an opportunity and it wasn’t long before locals fell in love with the Contessa Fry Up and Italian Eggs with Meatballs. “Back then Balmain had a booming pub scene, but no one catered to the hungover crowds”, says Marco.

In 2011 they rebranded to Contessa Balmain. “We wanted to give the café a New York feel and worked with a local artist to create our mural. Street art and exposed brick was unheard of in Sydney at the time.” The menu, crafted by Marco, stayed the same – apart from a few genius additions. “We created the Froggachino, our take on the Babychino, and it went viral on Instagram. We had families coming from everywhere!” With dishes both delicious and Instagrammable, Contessa Balmain became a brunch hot spot.

The café traded throughout covid and when restrictions eased, they were so busy they expanded to the shop next door. “The support from the community during covid was incredible”, says Marco. “We had one customer

paying $100 for a piece of carrot cake every week during lockdown just to support us.”

Covid was hard, but the first six months of this year were the toughest Marco has ever experienced. “There was no staff. And everyone was in the same boat. Rosa and I worked full-time cooking, dishwashing and serving as well as managing the business –that’s a tough gig when you’re 50!”

Marco’s love of food and great business sense has made Contessa Balmain so successful. “You must know and care about your customers. If you’re setting up shop just to make money, you’ll fail. I’m across every aspect of the business and everyone in our team truly cares about our customers. We don’t just want to serve you coffee –we want you to leave feeling a bit better than when you walked in.”

CONTESSA BALMAIN

371B & 371A Darling St, Balmain contessabalmain

Dance for Dementia

With dementia being the second leading cause of death in Australia, the team at CareToDance and Dementia Australia partnered to host the first Annual Dance For Dementia

Inner West Gala Ball on the 31 May. The objective was to raise funds for Dementia Australia and their research team to help the many Australians affected by dementia.

The night was proudly sponsored by:

Leanne, owner of Honeybrook School of Dancing, and Alexia were very thankful to the local sponsors.

Lynn Chien, owner of Wall’s Pharmacy

Caroline Diamantis, owner of Balmain Community Pharmacy

Alexia and Cristian Basescu, owners of CareToDance

Jeremy Saville, owner of Vision Personal Training Balmain

The CaretoDance Team

Eleven brave local business owners and community leaders volunteered to dance for the cause. The group trained for months, perfecting their routines, and performed courageously on the night in front of more than 400 attendees. With the help of the fabulous CareToDance instructors their talents shone through on the night.

More than $110,000 was raised through donations, raffles and support from many local businesses, and major sponsor DeLorenzo. The night was full of fun, smiles, dancing and spectacular entertainment all in the name of working towards a more comfortable lifestyle for everyone affected by dementia.

Exclusive offer

For a limited time only, get your first session free and discover all the benefits that the world of dancing has to offer. Apply on the website today!

CareToDance Balmain

Level 1/595 Darling Street, Rozelle caretodance.com.au

Angela Ioakimidis, from Bertoni

Honeybrook School Of Dancing

Philip Sidebottom, owner of Philip James Styling

Pablo Corea, owner of Glutes & Gloves

Principal John Nguyen, from Nicholson Street Public School

Rhythm Brazil

Local finds

Dog lead with built-in poop bag holder. Made from recycled plastic.

Julius Haag Sculpture | $600 039. Olive wood offcut, blackened hardwood base.

Hester Fleming Vintage | $59 Vintage Swarovski crystal dragonfly brooch.

Inside Traders & Co | From $37 Wooden boxes. Local and independent.

Kirana Haag | $1,500 Remembering that fleeting golden moment. Mixed media 80cm x 55cm.

Miss Pauline’s Garden

Balmain Public School has unveiled ‘Miss Pauline’s Garden’, a beautifully designed garden to support the integration of sustainability and environmental education into the school’s curriculum.

Importantly, the new garden provides a tranquil space for students to care for and nurture, as well as a quite space away from the bustle of the playground.

Funding for the garden was supported by parents, carers, the local community, and businesses via several school events in 2022, as well as an Inner West Council Environment grant provided to the Balmain Public School P&C.

Generous donations of plants and funds were also provided by local businesses including Bunnings Rozelle, Total Constructions, and the Inner West Community nursery at Rozelle Bay.

The school is committed to sustainability and teaching students to care for the local community and the environment, and with the new garden, the school hopes to continue this focus for many generations to come.

The garden is named in honour of the late Miss Pauline Jensen, a long-standing faculty member of Balmain Public School. Miss Pauline was passionate about recycling and the environment, and dedicated countless hours to supporting the school’s sustainability efforts and engaging children in learning about waste and repurposing.

Balmain Public School students in the ‘Environmental Warriors’ program were involved in the planning and research of the garden design. Design elements include insect hotels, bird boxes, a worm farm, and composting stations where students learn about biodiversity, pollination, and respect for the environment. A Bush Tucker element is also included where students will learn about indigenous culture and traditional ways of caring for country.

1 Eaton St, Balmain balmainpspc@gmail.com

Photo by Edible Gardens

Perfectly flaky delights

Have you queued for an hour for that perfect bundle of buttery goodness? Or driven past whilst rolling your eyes, wondering what all the fuss is about? The fact is – croissants are the hottest thing since sliced bread and they’re taking the peninsula by storm. We discover what makes the perfect croissant.

Butter, butter and more butter

When it comes to croissants, the golden rule is – the more butter, the better. The perfect croissant should be generously layered with high-quality butter. It’s the magic ingredient that creates that sought-after flakiness and rich, creamy flavour.

Meticulous layering

The hallmark of a perfect croissant lies in its delicate, paper-thin layers. Achieving this isn’t easy and requires the art of laminating the dough – folding and rolling it repeatedly to create the perfect balance between airiness and structure. This technique gives the croissant its hallmark flaky texture.

Time and patience

The perfect croissant is a work of art –carefully crafted with lots of butter and love. It’s a time-consuming process that requires a whole lot of patience. The dough needs plenty of time to rest and bakers must closely monitor the baking process. Even the smallest mistake may result in a flat croissant.

The ‘puff’ factor

The perfect croissant will magically puff up in the oven. It’s the well-structured layers that allow the croissant to rise and expand, creating that airy puffy texture.

The trail of destruction

There’s no neat way to eat a croissant. It’s like tacos, it goes everywhere. But that’s ok – a perfect croissant should leave a trail of delectable crumbs behind. This is a sign that the outer shell is crispy and delicate enough to shatter upon contact.

Thank you for joining us.

Proudly sponsored by:

Balmain Rozelle Food and Art Festival Opening Night, White Bay Beer Co.

Women in Business Dinner, L’Auberge

Paint your Pooch, Paper Rock Scissors Art Studio

Meet the Artists Open Studio, Kirana Haag and Julius Haag Sculpture

Shop in store or online at 245 Darling St, Balmain hillofcontentbookshop.com.au

Arty Party at Lara Scolari Art Gallery

Family Sewing Workshop, Artspark

Cheese Galore Tasting Night, Cheese Celebration

Photo Credit: Milk and Honey Photography

Kindness in a cupboard

Clementine Hartson suffered severe anxiety and depression in high school. It was the wonderful support from the people around her that helped Clem through this challenging time and inspired her to give back to the community. Darling sat down with Clem to learn more about ProjectKindness and a cupboard full of food and necessities in Rozelle.

Through her work with children in foster care, and people with severe mental health and disability challenges, Clem came to realise that further support services in the community were needed. “I wanted to bring joy to the lives of vulnerable people in our community. A kind word or gesture can be very powerful.” In 2017 this realisation developed into ProjectKindness.

ProjectKindness has set up five Kindness Cupboards across Sydney where those in need can help themselves to supplies such as tinned food, baby formula, dry goods and blankets. Rising costs of living has seen a sharp increase in demand.

Balmain is an affluent suburb but there are many people within our community experiencing food insecurity. Clem believes that there is no greater human right than secure access to adequate food and says, “The Kindness Cupboards allow those in need anonymity when benefiting from the pantry items. The cupboards also provide an opportunity for members of the community to give back.”

“It’s the support of locals that keeps our community Kindness Cupboards ticking. We encourage those who can support us by placing basic essentials in the cupboards or donate via our website. Non-perishable items such as tinned vegetables and fruit, pasta, soup, long life milk, baby food, breakfast cereal, muesli bars, toothbrushes, toiletries, new blankets and pillows are always welcome.”

Rozelle got its own Kindness Cupboard earlier this year and local artist Kirana Haag was approached to paint it. Kirana says,

“My inspiration was to create a colourful, fun, light-filled beacon that would put a smile on the faces of those donating and accepting donations from it. Colour has such a magnificent way of changing the mood in a space and my wish is that this cupboard brings happiness and hope to the community”.

Our local Kindness Cupboard is in the garden at together2, 754-756 Darling Street, Rozelle.

You do you

Thanks to technology and social media, fashion trends are global and early adopters are finding it hard to stay ahead of the curve. Here, guest writer Tara Eales explores ‘You do you’ – the hottest trend in New York.

In the 90’s I worked as a fashion designer and we would fly to the USA biannually to get inspiration for the Australian season ahead. Pounding the New York pavement in search of colour trends, new silhouettes, branding detail and technical fabric advancements – all of which we found copious amounts of.

Today, thanks (or not) to social media fashion trends are global and it’s difficult to keep up, let alone stay ahead!

When I first moved to New York a year and a half ago (I split my time between Sydney and New York) I quickly learnt that I needed to dress for comfort – either that or buy shares in a blister band aid company. No, comfort does NOT mean exercise gear, Lulu legends! What I mean is that it’s a walking city and comfortable footwear is paramount. Here’s a chance to make a statement – funky, chunky, colourful or overly embellished, with mismatched or statement socks – this is how New Yorkers nail ‘You do you’.

Of course, if you’re heading to a special event and only 5ft 1” like me, carry your

Enter ‘You do you’ which is all about rocking the current trend but adding your own twist. With the diversity of cultures in New York this touch of individuality is plentiful.

heels in a fabulous bag. Heels DO play an important role at the many magnificent restaurants New York has to offer. Remember, the whole ensemble does not have to follow the comfort rule. Think fabulous loose bottoms with structure up top like a corset top underneath a stylish blazer – a win win if you’re pear shaped like me. If you are tall and slim let it show. Think chunky brogues, fitted skirt, baggy silhouette up top (to balance the shoe factor), slick hair and fabulous earrings.

Don’t forget the accessories – earrings and necklaces are getting chunkier. The fine jewellery is still around but I’m a fan of bold, coloured rings adorning those fingers. They will be noticed when you sip your martini!

I have indeed found some fabulous shops in New York. Australians can source most of them already, but in New York you get the WHOLE collection. That’s the biggest difference. So if you’re lucky enough to be heading over there I do suggest you visit Sea By NY, Ulla Johnson (true New Yorker), Tombolo (matchy, matchy gals and pals), Unfashional (super hip buyers picks), Ralph Lauren’s Flagship store (to die for), Art to Ware (wearable art gallery), 3NYConcept (contemporary international and one of a kind) and of course Bergdorf Goodman (the windows, sigh), Saks and Nordstrom. Last week I was so proud to see our own Australian designer, Zimmerman, featured in Nordstrom’s window on 57th Street.

When I head back in summer, I will make sure I have lots of colour in my suitcase, a raffia tote and espadrilles to match, a visor (yes, they’re back), flared cargoes with optional drawstring ankles, a neutral blazer and some bold printed shorts and copious amounts of Dinosaur Designs rings and bangles. But hey, that’s me. You do you!

By Tara Eales

“Each time I head to New York I make sure I pack a few things from Romance Was Born or Alemais. Guaranteed comments from the locals!”

Colour in

Keeping well

Get up early, soak up the morning rays, and walk your dog along the beautiful foreshore of Birchgrove Oval. Grab some fresh produce from the Gladstone Store. Bump into neighbours and have a chat, while they pat your dog.

7AM

11AM

Time for a stretch and tone. Since 2002, the Balmain community have been taking yoga, pilates, barre and reformer classes at BodyEthos on Booth St. Mention Darling to get a free class! Around the corner, pop into The Source Bulk Foods for some wholesome snacks to give you an energy boost before the next activity.

9AM

Pop into The Old Rosebud in Rozelle for an early lunch of winter soup – the perfect vitamin boost for your body. Get a nature fix at That Plant Shop where you’ll feel instantly calm surrounded by greenery, serene music and blooms. Stock up on chemical free make up and skin products at The Well Store.

12PM

Explore the shelves of Hill of Content Bookstore or head to Balmain Library. Walk down to Elkington Park and pick one of the many benches along the harbour to enjoy the read, and the view.

2PM

Check out Balmain’s newest wellness addition, City Cave Balmain who offers a float experience where you can clear your mind and reap the health benefits of floating in 400 kilos of Epsom salt. While you’re there, why not enjoy a massage and infrared sauna too!

4PM

Discover Beattie Street Health Studio where a team of professionals offer a variety of treatments, including acupuncture, massage, naturopathy, yoga and parenting classes.

3PM

Grab some friends and try an aqua aerobics class at Leichhardt Aquatic Centre. Have a coffee afterwards before heading to the Bay Run for an extra walking session.

5PM

Leave work early and treat yourself to a massage at Rozelle’s new White Waratah Boutique Thai Massage and Infrared Sauna. The only stress is choosing from their huge array of massage types, body scrubs and foot spa massages available.

Getting to Balmain

Our public transport system isn’t perfect, but today’s ferry, bus (and Uber) networks are a vast improvement from the historical days of Balmain.

Despite growth in other parts of Sydney, Balmain remained unoccupied until 1836. There was no transport to the peninsula, which housed only George Whitfield’s Farm, which later was owned by John Birch, who named the suburb Birchgrove.

William Balmain sold his 550 acres to fellow Scotsman John Gilchrist and after Gilchrist’s death and a feud over his beneficiary, the first subdivision occurred in 1836.

The peninsula’s earliest parish map shows a track from Whitfield’s farm following the ridge to the north end of what is now Balmain Road, Leichhardt. From there, an overland traveller followed the road south to join Parramatta Road at the Bald-Faced Stag Hotel in Leichhardt.

For many years, the approach to Balmain was only by water in skiffs rowed by Watermen (Licensed Boatmen). This was very expensive, at one shilling a passenger to Balmain East and two shillings to Waterview Bay. To land passengers, the Watermen cut stairs into the sandstone shorelines.

The first steam ferry, Edye Manning’s Experiment, set excursionists down at the foot of Pearson Street, Balmain East in 1840.

A meeting of residents in April 1843 promoted a Balmain-owned steam ferry and on 11 July George Coke’s Australia left Deloitte’s Wharf at Darling Harbour for Pearson Street, and then round the north side of the peninsula to the Garry Owen estate (now Callan Park) and Five Dock. A regular ferry service, aptly named Balmain Ferry Company, was established by Henry Perdriau in 1844.

It was not until 1898, that a causeway was constructed across the head of Rozelle Bay and land transport could compete with the ferries.

BALMAIN ASSOCIATION

Balmain Watch House

179 Darling St, Balmain balmainassociation.org.au

Page turning teen reads

THE FAULT IN OUR STARS

John Green | Romance Fiction

Hazel, a young teenage girl diagnosed with lung cancer, joins a support group where she meets Augustus. The story takes you on a journey through life’s ups and downs.

These school holidays, it’s time to ditch the screens and snuggle in with a good book and enjoy the journey it takes you on. These are some of the favourite picks from Darling’s teen book reviewer, Cara.

Books available at your favourite local book store.

THE BOOK THIEF

Markus Zusak | Historical Fiction

This book beautifully depicts book-lover Liesel’s coming-of-age story where she learns maths, reading, writing, moral ethics, friendship, and prejudice in Nazi Germany during World War II.

WE ARE LIARS

E. Lockhart | Mystery Fiction

Narrated by 17 year old Cadence, this novel is a shocking mystery of the dark secrets of the seemingly perfect Sinclair family, who hide their lies and flaws behind their beautiful and handsome image.

RED QUEEN

Victoria Aveyard | Fantasy Fiction

The story of 17 year old girl, Mare Barrow, living in a world where her blood determines her status is a thought-provoking read. People with red blood are commoners, yet those with silver blood are royals with special powers highlighting the societal divisions.

ALL THE BRIGHT PLACES

Jennifer Niven | Romance Fiction

Theodore Finch and Violet Markey are two teenagers who badly want to escape from their lives. A beautiful, tragic romance where a girl learns how to live from a boy who wants to die.

Food Recycling coming to every house in the Inner West

Following the previous delivery of a food recycling program to apartments throughout the Inner West, a full food organics and garden organics (FOGO) recycling program will be rolled out to every Inner West household in October.

Renowned landscape architect and sustainability activist Costa Georgiadis joined Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne and Councillor Mat Howard to announce the commencement of the new FOGO scheme for the Inner West.

Costa said, “The fact that FOGO is going to roll out across all of the Inner West and all of the Inner West residents can take their food waste out of the red bin and put it into the green bin is awesome news.

Because when we separate our food waste, we’re contributing big time to reducing landfill and carbon emissions.”

Mayor Byrne added, “Preventing food from rotting in landfill and releasing methane is the single most important thing our local community can do to combat climate change. Better still, this will save ratepayers millions of dollars in landfill fees in the years to come.”

Details of the FOGO program:

A Comprehensive Education program leading up to the roll out in October

Every apartment in the Inner West already has access to a burgundy topped kitchen caddy

In October, a green topped kitchen caddy will be delivered to every house in the Inner West Weekly pick up of green and burgundy bins beginning early October

We’ll keep you posted as we get closer to rolling out the FOGO Program. innerwest.nsw.gov.au/FOGO

Inner West Mayor Darcy Byrne, Costa Georgiadis and Councillor Mat Howard

Enjoyed a mulled wine at Royal Oak

Jumped in the puddles at Mort Bay

Watched the Tigers at Leichhardt Oval

Had a whiskey in front of the fire at The Riverview

Run through the leaves in Callan Park

Played with your dog in the rain

Enjoyed a pie from C’est Bon

Enjoyed Sunday roast at East Village Hotel

Frozen your toes off at Birchgrove Oval

Soaked up the winter sun in Gladstone Park

Picked up a book from Hill of Content

Watched a live band at The Unity

WINTER BINGO!