Neighbourhood Media Cronulla Magazine September | 2023

PICK ME UP I’M FREE ISSUE #5

GREENS’ FOOTWEAR CELEBRATES 60 YEARS

HUMANS OF 2230 - MEET APRIL DAVEY

TOM UGLY’S PRETTY PAST CONQUERING THE KOKODA TRAIL + HEAPS MORE

HISTORY

The Birth of Tom Ugly’s Bridge

FEATURE

Shire Arthouse, Capturing the Beauty of Sutherland Shire

HUMANS OF 2230

Meet April Davey, Up and Coming Surf Superstar

FEATURE

The Humpback Highway off Cronulla’s Coast

COMMUNITY

Catching up with the Sharks NRLW

IT’S nice to be back down south, and just in time for the weather to start warming up. Of course, the days are also getting longer, giving you even more time to enjoy all that Cronulla has to offer!

In this issue, we meet a heap of incredible locals; we have a resident that conquered the Kokoda trail for charity, we met a young and thriving local surfer, talked to the team behind Shire Arthouse, and learnt more about Swell Physio & Pilates refreshed look on treatments.

We are also celebrating the family behind Greens Footwear, who have been in Cronulla for more than 50 years. We checked out Cronulla RSL’s brand new The Deck, met some Pets of 2230 and heaps more!

Don’t forget to support the incredible local businesses featured in our local directory, and good luck with this issues puzzles!

Until next time x

PUBLISHER - Neighbourhood Media

DESIGNER - Robert Everett

CONTRIBUTORS - Isabella Edwards, Jamie Apps, Tahney Fosdike, Alec Smart & Rob Everett

ADVERTISING - Georgie Pengelly - 0416 972 081

PETS

Mark Jefrree, The Local That Conquered Kokoda for Charity

HEALTH

COMMUNITY SHOP

Meet the Pets of 2230

Swell Physio & Pilates - Treating the Individual Over the Injury

EAT & DRINK

Check out The Deck, Cronulla RSL’s Brand New Baby!

Greens Footwear - Cronulla Locals for 50 + Years

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

There is no better time to shop local, make sure to show your support

Tom Uglys Bridge is a NSW Heritage-listed dual crossing spanning the Georges River in Sydney’s south, and most probably named after an Aboriginal man (details below).

Tom Uglys Bridge is a NSW Heritage-listed dual crossing spanning the Georges River in Sydney’s south, and most probably named after an Aboriginal man (details below).

Historically it was the first road bridge constructed over the 96km Georges River estuar y (after a rail bridge at Como), replacing a 65-year-old punt service.

WHistorically it was the first road bridge constructed over the 96km Georges River estuar y (after a rail bridge at Como), replacing a 65-year-old punt service.

WHEN Tom Uglys Bridge (no apostrophe between the Y and the S) was opened to traffic on 26 April 1929, it was the longest bridge in Australia at 499 metres in length.

Linking Tom Uglys Point, Blakehurst (north) and Horse Rock Point, Sylvania (south), and carrying the Princes Highway from St George to Sutherland, it is one of seven major road crossings along the tidal river flowing into Botany Bay.

It was designed by Percy Allan (July 1861 - May 1930) a civil engineer who planned many public works in NSW, including 583 bridges.

However, Allan died one year after Tom Uglys Bridge was opened.

The Georges River, known as Tucoerah (aka Tuggerah) to the Indigenous Dharawal and Dharug clans, was renamed by Arthur Phillip, the first Governor of Australia, in honour of King George III.

King George III was the loquacious and manic British king infamously known as ‘mad’ - a condition politely attributed to the blood disorder porphyria, but more like caused by bipolar disorder.

In the midst of World War II, Tom Uglys Bridge was used in an aerial antic. On Thursday 28 May 1942, Hurstville community newspaper The Propeller reported a “Daring Plane Stunt” when an unidentified fighter pilot flew beneath the bridge. Apparently it was not the first time, and air force pilots were already flying underneath Sydney Harbour Bridge on training exercises.

TAKE A PUNT

Prior to Tom Uglys Bridge construction, people needing to cross Georges River had a choice of three punt services linking six suburbs.

The first vehicle-carrying punt between Tom Uglys Point and Horse Rock Point was launched in 1864, financed by property tycoon and politician Thomas Holt.

At this time, most of the Sutherland region, around 4,856 hectares, was under the ownership of Holt, who tried unsuccessfully to graze stock.

In 1878, Holt sub-divided his failed farmlands and offered 21-year leases to tenants.

As the district opened up to new settlers, larger and faster punts replaced previous vessels to fulfil public demand for their service.

According to the Georges River Story website: “There were occasional mishaps. In July 1919, the punt driver fell into the water, and the punt continued on its way unattended. He swam after it, and caught up with it just in time to bring it to a halt. In March 1921, a car accidentally reversed at speed onto the punt and straight through the safety gate at the back, into ten metres of water, with a mother and child still in the car. The punt’s engineer immediately dived in to rescue them.”

However, the punts created major traffic bottlenecks. At the time the bridge was built, public pressure was mounting for a solution to the long waits for punts.

“Prior to Tom Uglys Bridge construction, people needing to cross Georges River had a choice of three punt services linking six suburbs. .”

By Alec Smart

TOLLS AND A SECOND BRIDGE

Sutherland Shire Council borrowed a significant sum of money - £305,000 - from the NSW Govt to finance the construction of the first bridge, so a toll of sixpence was imposed to repay the loan.

The toll was collected on the Sylvania side by staff on foot who intercepted vehicles on the road. After 23 years the bridge loan was eventually repaid and on 31 May 1952 the toll was abolished.

Originally known as the George’s River Bridge, Tom Uglys Bridge wasn’t formally named until May 1965, when Captain Cook Bridge, 2300 metres downstream, was opened, to avoid confusion.

Initially, Tom Uglys Bridge consisted of two lanes, one in each direction; then, from the 1950s, was converted to three lanes, with the central lane direction altered in morning and afternoon rush hours to accommodate peak flow.

Today, Tom Uglys consists of two bridges side by side, one northbound, the other southbound. A second bridge (opened 17 Oct 1987) was deemed necessary after traffic increased to around 60,000 vehicles a day in the 1980s.

Dual bridges like these are typically parallel, however, the Tom Uglys’ pair diverge significantly, like a feuding couple. At their northern end there is approximately 5 metres separating them, but the newer bridge was set on a tangent to end up 62 metres apart at the southern end, thus making it 71 metres longer.

The newer bridge, to the east, is of concrete box girder

Feel Understood

design; the older original to the west is a truss design made of steel.

The northbound iron bridge utilises an engineering design known as the Pratt truss with alternating vertical and diagonal support beams. This distinct style of latticework supports and reinforces bridges in all weather conditions and is in use all over the world.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Who was Tom Ugly? Several theories have been offered since Tom Uglys Point was first named in the mid-19th century.

Wikipedia website suggests four alternatives. However, the Eora People website dismisses three of these versions as “spurious” and opines their own explanation:

“The real Tom Ugly was an Aboriginal man from the south coast of New South Wales who later lived, died and was buried under a gibber gunyah (rock shelter) on the point of the Georges River that bears his name.”

They detail the shocking pursuit of Tom’s skeleton by Karl von Scherzer, an explorer, natural scientist, author and diplomat, who wished to dig up his body for the purpose of study.

So, in conclusion, the dual bridges that that carry the Princes Highway over Tucoerah/Georges River, were named after an Indigenous man whose remains are buried on the north bank at the point from where the two bridges, and before them the punts, originate.

COVER FEATURE

Images: Grant Trouville

TTHE Arthouse website states that all production is done right here in the Sutherland Shire. Why is local production important to you?

All of our work is created by local artists and crafts-people here in the Sutherland Shire. We shoot a lot of our work locally, but we also shoot in locations across Australia and sometimes overseas too. We print and frame all of our work in-house. This is important to us because it helps to ensure that the work we produce is of the highest quality using local talent and materials. Not only does this help to ensure quality, but it also helps to support local artists and craft-people. In addition, it means that our work is fully customisable.

Shire Arthouse has a continuing collaboration with Bob Weeks & Co for the Cronulla Memories Series. What was it like to revisit these iconic images and present them to the local public again?

It has been, and continues to be, a privilege to work with him; he is a great bloke, a talented photographer, and a local legend. His shots of Cronulla in the 1960’s are truly iconic; Bob’s photographs allow us to have a glimpse into a bygone era. The sixties were the decade that surf culture took Australia’s beaches by storm and Bob’s images capture this vibe. It is nostalgic for those who experienced the sixties, and it is fascinating for those who didn’t.

Kiah, as a photographer what is your favourite area of The Shire to shoot and why?

My favourite spot to shoot in The Shire is South Cronulla. The coastline along Cronulla is spectacular, the beaches

are pristine and the water is so clear. I especially love South Cronulla due to the incredible rock pools and sandstone that is further revealed when the tide is low.

Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know?

We have been known as Shire Arthouse for some years now. We do capture a lot of our work in the Sutherland Shire, in particular Cronulla. However, as our business has continued to grow we have been engaged to do a lot of large-scale project work across Australia. For this project work we are sent on location shoots across Australia, the images we shoot are then used to fit our new commercial, residential and aged-care buildings.

Our work’s focus is not just the Shire now; we have an extensive collection of photography that’s been shot all over Australia. As such, we are currently undergoing a rebrand of our business from Shire Arthouse to Local & Yonder. We feel that Local & Yonder captures who we are now and what we do; we shoot, print and frame locally in the Shire, but we also have an incredible collection of works from beyond the shire too, hence - Local & Yonder. Our rebrand will come into effect over the coming months.

‘‘His (Bob Week’s) shots of Cronulla in the 1960’s are truly iconic.’’

FEATURE G

At only nineteen April Davey is a rising name in Australian surfing. We caught up with the Mambo Australia Junior to talk all things surfing, maintaining a healthy work-life balance, and growing up in The Shire.

GROWING up in the Cronulla area, surfing culture is all around you. Do you remember how old you were when you started to take notice of it and develop an interest in the sport?

“I’ve been surfing my whole life, it has always been a part of my identity and the essence of who I am. I really started to take notice of the culture when I was an early teen. The surfing community and culture in Cronulla have always been strong, however, I was normally the only girl in the water. As a young kid, this made the lineup quite overwhelming. In recent years this has totally shifted, and the amount of girls that are now surfing at our local beaches is great to see. The culture of the surfing community has really opened up to become more inclusive, encouraging more young girls to try out the sport. I think it’s fantastic.”

Many of your sponsors are local businesses. What does it mean to be supported by your community?

“The weight of the support of my local community has always had a big impact on me. I’ve been lucky enough to be brought up with some pretty amazing brands supporting me. It has helped a lot with the development of my surfing, and in this relationship as they support me, I make sure to support them too. Being sponsored by Mambo Australia at 17 years old has had a huge influence on my progression as a surfer as well as becoming a major support system in my early career. I love having the opportunity to represent the local brands that I love.” Is there anyone that you really look up to in surfing? Is there anyone that has inspired you that you’d like to model your career after?

“I really look up to Blake Thornton, he has been a huge mentor to me since joining the Mambo Australia Surf Team. He is an amazing surfer and helps me tap into the fundamental skills needed in surfing as well as offering valuable competitive tactics. He takes me and the other Mambo Australia Jr. surf riders up and down the coast to experience new waves and learn new skills in these different environments. He has an amazing surfing career and is a great leader and source of inspiration for our Mambo Australia team. His surfing journey is really inspiring, and I hope to replicate it in my own path and future in this sport.”

You made your competitive surfing debut at only 11 years old! How do you think you’ve grown as an athlete since then?

By Isabella Edwards

By Isabella Edwards

“I’ve grown a lot since then. I’ve developed my skill set in surfing bigger waves with more power and confidence. I’ve taught myself a wide range of turns with different intensity and power. I have also grown in my tactical skills surrounding competitions and heat strategies. I’ve grown and developed a lot since I first started competing, the only thing that hasn’t changed is my love for the ocean.”

To keep up-to-date with April and follow her growing career, find her on Instagram:

When you’re not carving it up, you’re studying psychology, correct? What took you down that path?

“In between my time in the water and time spent at work, I spend my time studying psychology. Growing up I struggled a lot with my mental health and didn’t understand why it was affecting my body and mind the way it was. As I grew up I learnt how to manage these feelings and put it all into my sport. I study psychology with the hopes that one day I will have a career aimed at helping those who are struggling or are enduring similar experiences with their mental health.”

On the topic of psychology, what does mental health mean to you, and how does surfing impact it?

“Surfing has the biggest impact on me, the ocean has so many benefits for your physical and mental health. Surfing is something that has always helped me process what I’m feeling. On my good days, the ocean is a place that is fun and uplifting, and on my bad days it’s an outlet. It has always felt like home.”

How are you balancing, competing, training, and studying?

“I’ve been lucky enough to have the ability to support myself (financially) since I was 18. I live on my own right next to South Cronulla Beach, so being able to spend time in the water is easier than when I was growing up. I work shift work which has opened my days up for more opportunities to train, surf and study. My workplace has a gym that I use before work to further develop my skills in the water. I’ve also made a little homemade gym that I use on my days off when the surf is flat. My life has always been busy, but it’s easy to make time for the things you enjoy.

Are there any goals you’re striving for? When will we see you next compete?

“I’m always doing competitions around my local area but this year I’ve taken a break from the big events to focus on the fundamental and tactical components to my surfing. I want to further my studies and spend time at home with my two bunnies. I have an amazing job and work with some incredible people, so I look forward to enjoying that as much as possible. Life is good and I just want to continue improving in everything I do.”

WHILE they excite the crowds with their on-field exploits, playing to multiple sellouts at their home ground of PointsBet Stadium, much of the Sharks best work might be carried out away from the spotlight and the adoring fans.

The Sharks qualified for the NRL Finals for the second consecutive year and for the eighth time in the past nine years, before bowing out in spectacular fashion following a one-point loss to the Roosters.

It was a disappointing end to a season that promised so much, however with coach Craig Fitzgibbon returning, along with the majority of his 2023 playing squad, hopes are high that the lessons learned this year will see the Sharks challenge the best teams in the NRL again next year.

But while the players now take a well-earned break from training and playing, something that never rests is the Sharks commitment to community causes, organisations, events and activities.

Through its community arm Sharks Have Heart, the Cronulla club has earned a reputation as the ‘Community Club’ by utilising the profile of the players, now both men and women, as well as the game of rugby league to create

social impact and bring about meaningful change.

From One Heart, which contributes to strength in diversity and social participation, to Heart to Heart and its aim to rebuild and reinforce a flourishing network of volunteers to participate in flexible and dynamic roles and in supporting a thriving sport sector in the Sutherland Shire, Sharks Have Heart is a crucial part of the Club’s overall business.

And although members of both the NRL and NRLW squads are active participants in Sharks Have Heart programs, two players have been singled out for special recognition in going above and beyond in their commitment to the community.

Earlier this year Toby Rudolf, one of the NRL’s personality players, known as much for his long flowing locks and ‘Sampson-like’ appearance as for his on-field performances, teamed up with the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave, an event which saw the popular Shark raise $43,000 for the cause.

In the 25th year of the national fundraising initiative, Rudolf became the second-highest fundraiser nationally in the Individual Fundraiser category in 2023.

WThe Cronulla Sharks Showing Commitment to Community on and off the Field.

His community spirit certainly didn’t go unnoticed, with Rudolf then recognised by the NRL as a Finalist for the prestigious Ken Stephens Medal ‘Man of the Year’, an award presented to the player deemed to be making the most significant contribution to the community over the course of the year.

Should Rudolf, who also led the way when it came to fan and community engagement in many other Sharks Have Heart programs, be crowed Ken Stephen Medallist, he would follow in the footsteps of teammate Ronaldo Mulitalo, the recipient of the award in 2022.

To have back-to-back winners of the Medal would further solidify the Sharks status as the community engagement leader amongst all NRL clubs.

Then further building on the work being carried out by the boys, has been the addition of the NRLW women’s team in 2023, with an eager and enthusiastic group all looking to also have an impact in the community and to inspire the next generation.

While all the Sharks women’s squad have played their part, Jada Taylor, a proud Gamilaroi woman originally from Tamworth in Northern NSW, has been at the forefront in delivering the Deadly Choices Indigenous Health, along with anti-racism programs, to students in the Sutherland Shire.

Visiting Primary and Secondary schools, Taylor has been instrumental in supporting health education, promoting required health checks and wellbeing support.

Like Rudolf, Taylor’s work hasn’t gone unnoticed by the NRL, emphasised by her nomination as a Finalist for the Veronica White Medal - Woman of the Year, the NRLW’s equivalent to the Ken Stephen.

Two singled out and celebrated, however at the Sharks it’s a team effort on and off the field, with the community the beneficiary.

‘‘Earlier this year Toby Rudolf teamed up with the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave, an event which saw the popular Shark raise $43,000 for the cause.’’

FEATURE

By Alec Smart

BETWEEN early May until late August, whales journey northwards through the Tasman Sea to the Coral Sea, and out into the South Pacific Ocean, many of them in close proximity to the shore.

From mid-August until late November the cetaceans return; the early southbound travellers on route to the Southern Ocean bypass the late northbound, often socialising as they cross paths.

Humpbacks, which feature distinctive fluted chins and long fins with up to 11 bumps known as ‘tubercles’, are, along with southern right whales, the most common of the migratory cetaceans in our waters. Around 30,000 (of the approximately 80,000 humpbacks worldwide) travel up and down the east coast of Australia every year.

Humpbacks and grey whales travel the longest distances of all whales – some swim a 10,000km round trip during their migratory cycle! Males often leap completely out of the water - known as ‘breaching’ - during demonstrations of strength generally intended to impress females.

However, only a few species of dolphins migrate, often travelling in pods among the whales, and they trek significantly shorter distances, preferring instead to follow the seasonal movements of their favourite fish prey.

BAY-BREAKERS

Whales frequently pause to rest or socialise in bays and sheltered coves during their migration.

Bondi, for example, receives occasional visitors. On 6 June 2023, a small pod of around six whales were filmed frolicking in the bay. On 31 May 2022, curiosity got the better of two young humpback whales that swam in to closely inspect a group of three ocean swimmers returning to Bondi Beach. The incident was filmed by a drone and made national news.

Whale Watching boat cruises around Sydney: captaincook.com.au/sydney-harbour-cruises/explore/whale-watching oceanextreme.com.au

On 9 July 2013, surfer Bishan Rajapakse was knocked unconscious when a 15-metre humpback flicked him off his board with a swish of its tail, just 70 metres offshore. Fellow surfers transported the concussed rider in to the beach, who later joked, “maybe it was giving me a high five!”

Typically among the last southbound stragglers coming close to shore in October-November are the new-born calves on their first long-distance journey south, accompanied by their mothers. They usually swim closer to the shoreline to avoid hungry predators, especially orca, which roam in packs seeking vulnerable young whales on which to feed.

CETACEAN FACTS

The word ‘cetacean’ is derived from the Ancient Greek ‘ketus’, meaning ‘monster-sized fish’, although they are not fish but warm-blooded mammals that give birth to live young, breathing air through a nostril ‘blowhole’, not filtered through gills.

There are 86 species of whales, dolphins and porpoises worldwide - are all marine-dwelling carnivores with diets that range from miniscule plankton to fish to other whales. 45 species of cetacean are found in Australian waters, including 10 large whales, 20 smaller whales, 14 dolphins and a single breed of porpoise. Some of them are seasonal, others resident all year round.

Cetaceans can be divided into two categories of feeders: Baleen, which have thin, frayed-end strainers for teeth through which they filter small marine creatures like plankton and fish.

Toothed, which generally prey on fish and squid, although some, like orca (aka “killer whales”, which are actually large dolphins and not whales, despite their name), also hunt seals or other cetaceans.

BThe annual whale migration season is in full flight, as an estimated 40,000 cetaceans make their way up the east coast to warmer waters for feeding and breeding.

WHERE TO WATCH WHALES?

There are several high vantage points along the Sydney coastline from which to view whales, including: Ben Buckler Point, north of Bondi Beach; Burrows Park, Clovelly; and The Gap at South Head.

Further south, Magic Point, Malabar, and Solander Point at Kurnell are popular whale-watching spots.

On the Northern Beaches the new Burragula and Yiningma lookouts on North Head offer spectacular sea views, or Long Reef Headland and Barrenjoey Lighthouse.

Baleen whales sighted off the coast of Sydney include: Bryde’s, fin, humpback, minke (Antarctic and its dwarf subspecies), right (both southern and pygmy) and sei whales. Blue whales too, albeit once in a blue moon.

Toothed whales witnessed offshore include: southern bottlenose, pilot (long and short-finned), melon-headed, sperm (including pygmy and dwarf sub-species), and several ‘beaked’ species (Andrew’s, Arnoux’s, Blainville’s, Cuvier’s, ginkgo-toothed, Gray’s, Shepherd’s and strap-toothed).

Several species of dolphins inhabit the coastal waters around Sydney, including bottlenose, common, dusky, hump-backed, Indo-Pacific, pantropical, Risso’s, rough-toothed, spinner (which perform spectacular, corkscrew-like acrobatic flips), striped, and the orcas (including false killer whales and pygmies). Some dolphins swim into bays to feed or even surf the waves breaking close to shore!

“Humpbacks and grey whales travel the longest distances of all whales – some swim a 10,000km round trip during their migratory cycle!”

By Adeline Teoh

MARK, along with his wife Kylie, operate the Sydney South franchise of home-building company GJ Gardner Homes situated in Caringbah. A builder by trade, he now spends his days running the business, co-ordinating their nine employees and “a whole suite of suppliers and subcontractors” – from allocating work to ensuring they’re safe and paid.

Overhearing a couple of members of the GJ team talk about Kokoda reminded Mark that he had the trail on his bucket list. “I didn’t have any relatives that were involved [in the World War II campaign] directly, but it was just something that was on our doorstep and if people didn’t keep going and listening to the history of the place, over time it just gets diminished,” he says of his motivation to visit.

The Kokoda Trail campaign was part of a 1942 series of battles in the Pacific during World War II between Japanese forces and an alliance of Australian and US soldiers. The isolated mountain terrain and jungle environment made for notoriously difficult conditions through which the alliance prevailed with help from the well-known hospitality of Papua New Guineans. Today, tour companies such as Adventure Kokoda – which Mark and the GJ team went with – guide hikers along the trail, strengthening the experience with historic commentary and local knowledge.

The GJ team comprised 16 people, including Mark and his 15-year-old son. Due to the iconic nature of the trip, the team decided to turn the walk of a lifetime into a fundraising opportunity. They chose charities with a link to the team and the trip: MATES In Construction, a suicide prevention organisation aimed at construction workers – who are eight

times more likely to die by suicide than an accident at work; and Legacy, a 100-year-old charity which supports families of veterans.

The thematic links came in handy when the GJ team reached out to its network to raise funds. “It was something a bit more rewarding when you’re asking people to put some money towards it, because it’s something that we could all speak about,” Mark explains. “A lot of our subcontractors and suppliers were keen to support. Some of the older ones that had connections to Papua New Guinea were even keener and really excited about hearing about the trip as well. Virtually everyone supported us whichever way they could and in the end we raised just over $147,000.”

While the team trained in Australian conditions – Mark and his son hiked trails around the Illawarra Escarpment and the Blue Mountains – “the track itself is a lot more challenging than any of the training tracks we did,” says Mark. “And doing a walk in the Blue Mountains when it’s four degrees doesn’t compare to doing a walk in Papua New Guinea where it’s 30 degrees and 95 percent humidity.”

Other research included watching YouTube videos to help with mental preparation, both for understanding the history and context of the area and the difficulty of the trail – though Mark drew the line at showing the more extreme ‘horror hikes’ to his son.

On the trail, there was a mix of a “big sense of accomplishment of finishing every day” interspersed with moments of reflection. “When they’re recounting stories about what happened where we were, you go, ‘oh

MWhen Mark Jeffree and the GJ Gardner Homes team started planning to walk the iconic Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea, it wasn’t just a matter of crossing an item off their bucket list. Instead, they used the milestone trip to raise more than $147,000 for two charities close to their community.

wow, people have lived, breathed and even been killed in this very area’ and it’s quite sombre to go through those places seeing what people were doing for their country,” says Mark.

A couple of team members did need to be evacuated out of the area due to injury and it’s at these moments when Mark saw the locals’ hospitality come to the fore, looking after casualties and ensuring they were catered for until handing them over to the helicopter. “You could sense that that’s what they did for us during the course of the war and there are stories that are just like that but tenfold,” says Mark. “They’re a caring bunch of people.”

It also drove home the importance of the communities who still live in the areas where many Australians may only visit once in a lifetime. “Support the locals where you can because they’re there to help you and support you on the trek, and going through their villages,” Mark notes. “On top of that, some of us have gone on and supported some local PNG boxers as our trek leader was involved in that scene. We’ve supported one of their heavyweight boxers so he can get to competitions and training, because he lives out on Manus Island.”

The best part? “Doing it with my son was a big highlight for me,” nominates Mark. And it has also been a great team-bonding exercise. So much so, many are already thinking about where to go next. “Everyone seemed to get quite a bit out of it and it was all going to worthwhile causes and charities. If you get the opportunity to do it, it’s really nice to be able to give something back. It’s a win-win for everyone.”

Mark Jeffree from GJ Gardner Homes Sydney South recommends the Port Hacking Yacht Club for lunch. “It’s a really nice place to go on the water, nothing pretentious. It’s like a pub, but with a great outlook.”

LOCAL FAVOURITE

HOW SWELL FOUNDER JAMES WOOD IS CHANGING THE WAY WE LOOK AND PHYSIOTHERAPY AND PILATES

OUR bodies are the only thing we’ll have forever, so it’s important to keep them in the best possible condition. Thankfully, Sutherland Shire locals have Swell Physio and Pilates. We caught up with their founder, Shire local, James Wood, to find out more about what he and Swell are doing differently and how it benefits the community.

James came to physiotherapy as many do, through a keen interest in sport and a curiosity in movement and muscular mechanics. However, he found that the industry lacked personalisation and wanted to delve more into treating the individual raher than just the injury. Thus Swell was born;

“I wanted to add value to the community and build a place that is primarily focused on helping people. I’ve worked throughout Sydney in my career and always struggled when friends asked, “who do you recommend in the Shire for physio?”. People will look for different ways to recover from injury and pain; I hope I can provide somewhere that helps people who want a holistic approach, are looking to understand their issue more fully, and wanting to be empowered in their recovery”. James explained.

“Clients immediately feel comfortable when they enter Swell. Many of them have found gyms or larger Pilates classes intimidating, so I’ve created an atmosphere that is welcoming and relaxing to allow people a comfortable space to exercise or recover from pain or injury. Because the feel of the space puts them at ease, they are less tense and guarded in their body, meaning they have a better session, and leave feeling amazing.”

Since it’s opening in March 2022, James has been demonstrating that Swell skews away from the hyperisolating approaches of more traditional physiotherapy practices and clinics typically offer.

“We provide a genuine personalised touch. In physio, we treat the whole person. That means assessing how your whole body is moving and how this impacts on the problem area, to understand the actual causes of your pain. It also means understanding the influences of other parts of your life, this includes stress, sleep, diet, and more.” Said James.

By Isabella Edwards

“I have done a huge amount of training in ConnectTherapy and the Thoracic Ring Approach, which are ways to assess which parts of your body are causing pain, and how to most effectively treat it. Maybe your old knee injury is altering how you squat, leading to your current back pain. Traditional forms of physio don’t go beyond the immediate area of pain, meaning the underlying cause often gets missed, and the pain can return. We will definitely treat the current issue, but when we identify why the problem exists, you get better faster, and for good.”

James has recognised not only the importance of a person’s lifestyle on their health and wellbeing but also how their community can impact approaches to health. We provide a different option for people in the Cronulla and the Sutherland Shire. Most physiotherapy in the area is very limited in it’s approach. A heat pack, massage, and pre-printed exercise sheet for every person. No two injuries are the same because no two people are the same, so the treatment should always be tailored, and that’s what we do. Our sessions will be completely different for every person, depending on what they need.

James has expressed deep gratitude to The Shire community for how well Swell has been received noting that it has been “Fantastically humbling”.

“I’ve built some great relationships with specialists, GPs, other allied health, local business owners, and have some incredible clients who refer everyone they speak to! I’m incredibly grateful for the support I’ve received from the community.”

If you’re looking for physio and Pilates that’s done differently, you simply must try Swell. Head to: swellphysiopilates.com.au to book an appointment online or call the clinic on: 02 7253 8577.

2/25 Cronulla Street, Cronulla 2230

FOOD & DRINK

The Cronulla RSL began as a small club, leasing a few rooms in the Cecil Hotel in 1942 and has grown into the iconic waterfront venue we know it as today. However, one thing has remained the same - their dedication to engaging and supporting the Cronulla and Sutherland Shire community.

YWITH weekly activities, including bingo, Zumba and trivia, and subsidiary clubs and sporting groups, there is something for everyone at The Club. However, if that hasn’t tempted you to The Cronulla RSL, we know what will – the highly anticipated refurbishment and re-opening of their stunning Deck Bar.

DECK BAR - NEW AND IMPROVED

Cronulla RSL’s Deck Bar is THE PLACE to be on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday night. With Stunning views of South Cronulla Beach – where else would you rather be?

After closing the doors on its panoramic views in May this year, The Deck at Cronulla RSL finally reopened in late July. The fantastic new deck boasts a fresh and vibrant ambience and, as described by The Club itself: “an unparalleled dining experience”. Sounds like just the place to be to us!

With a gorgeous new modern coastal aesthetic, The Deck Bar’s new look has been carefully curated to induce a laid-back atmosphere, complete with soothing colours, natural elements, and plenty of comfortable seating. You won’t be able to beat settling into the weekend with a cocktail and taking in the stunning views.

To accompany the renovations, The Deck Bar is also slinging some fantastic new cocktails, as well as tried and tested classics to tickle your tastebuds:

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

Surf Juice

(Haku Vodka, Coconut, Seltzer, Lime, Bitters)

Emerald Spritz

(Midori, Roku Gin, Suze, Pineapple, Seltzer)

TO SHARE

Shark Punch

(Basil Hayden, Rum, Tea, Giffard Apricot)

Miami Vice

(A Deck Bar Daquiri inside + Cronulla Colada)

Cocktail Tree

(Your choice of Aperol Spritz, Margarita or Espresso Martini to share with 8-12 guests)

Cocktail Tasting Paddle

(sample of 6 of your favourites in mini form)

On Tap

Espresso Martini

Tommy’s Margarita

Cronulla RSL’s CEO, Sue McNeil, has shared her thoughts on the re-opening, stating, “With this renovation, we wanted to create a space that not only showcases our beautiful coastal setting but also provides an exceptional experience for our valued patrons. We cannot wait to welcome everyone back and share the joy of this new chapter.»

It certainly seems the newly refurbished deck is going to be the Cronulla hot spot of the spring and summer season.

While the Deck Bar is only open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons until late, The Deck’s seating area is open every day and drinks can be purchased from other bars throughout The Club and enjoyed on The Deck outside of its bar’s usual hours. With stunning views of the beautiful Cronulla foreshore, there’s never a wrong time to enjoy the newly re-opened Cronulla RSL Deck.

PETS

HARVEY - This 3 year old Cavoodle leads a busy life. When he isn’t busy greeting clients at Swell Physio & Pilates (2/25 Cronulla St), you can find him enjoying his two favourite pastimes; hunting for lizards in his backyard, or stealing Mum’s socks. He also loves a run on the beach and in the water, but being a bit of a wuss, he never ventures out further than he can stand up.

ALBERT AND LUCY

INDI - We love Staffies here at Neighbourhood Media, and Indi is the perfect example why! This sweet, 8 year old brindle Staffie loves nothing more than being around her family, and just hanging out. She loves going out for walks, laying on the lounge (she thinks she’s a lap dog) and will go wacko for a Schmacko. She also loves her cat sister, Aspen.

ALBERT AND LUCY - These are two sassy snags! Meet 3 and 2 year old Miniature Dachshund siblings - they have the same parents, but one litter apart. These guys are new to Cronulla but love how dog friendly it is. Albert and Lucy are self proclaimed dog fashionistas and have more instagram followers than their extended family combined. Very career focussed, these guys are also Chief Taste Testers of a dog treats business called Tasty Wiener Treats - living the dream! When they aren’t working hard, they love to be outdoors exploring the Shire - especially all the local beaches.

Is your pet a star? Submit your photos to our Facebook page

SHOP

For six decades, Cronulla has relied on Green’s Footwear to shoe the community. But the familyrun shoe store almost didn’t make it past its 50th anniversary. Second-generation owner Robert Green was all set to retire and close the business when his daughter Lucy Hodson stepped in.

I“I HAVE grown up in and around the store. In primary school I’d work the Spring Fair weekend in the stall with my sisters – we would be paid in a sausage sizzle from the butcher and a spotty dog ice-cream from the New Zealand [Natural] ice-cream shop,” Hodson recalls. “If you’d asked me if I’d end up running the store, I would have told you ‘absolutely not!’ I left school and worked in marketing and loved it. When I become pregnant with my son, my dad was about to retire and close the business. The timing seemed right; I’d be working close to home and be able to continue my family’s business.”

Almost 10 years later, Hodson has taken the reins from her semi-retired dad, who can’t quite seem to leave. “The plan was to retire five years ago but he loves being in-store,” she says. “I’ve really enjoyed working with my dad, it’s really special to have a great father-daughter relationship as well as a working relationship. Working with family in a family business is special.”

By Adeline Teoh

It was Hodson’s paternal grandparents Louise and Alan Green who started the business at 88 Cronulla Street, and then 13 years later moved the growing business to its current premises at number 45. The building already had a history in footwear spanning back to the 1920s with Baird Shoes –owned by the grandparents of former NSW Premier Mike Baird – and Fay’s Shoes as previous tenants. Its legacy is something special for Hodson.

“We have so much history being in business for 60 years,” she notes, “for instance, the shelving in the storeroom is built by my great-great-grandfather, grandfather and dad; we have a family height chart on the wall down the back that has all my family’s measurements on it; and Grandie [Alan] used to come and deliver coffees to the staff every afternoon until his late eighties.”

She mentions that many staff members have clocked on for more than two decades for Green’s throughout its operation. “Our staff are like our family too,” says Hodson.

In 60 years, the footwear business has certainly evolved from a time when there were no shoes on display in-store – customers would indicate what colour shoe they were looking for and the occasion – to the current day where the Green’s website sells shoes 24/7, nationally and even internationally.

LOCAL FAVOURITE

Lucy Hodson from Green’s Footwear lives locally with her family: her husband, two kids and dog Winnie. “On the weekends we love being outdoors – playing sports, walking our dog or having a family picnic at Lilli Pilli Point.”

And while there have been some tough periods – the global financial crisis earlier this century, and the Covid pandemic – there have also been plenty of memorable moments. “Puberty Blues being filmed, the adjustment from Cronulla Street to Cronulla Mall,” says Hodson. And distinctive footwear trends too: wooden wedges of the ‘70s, pixie boots, skate shoes and “those over-the-knee long boots from the movie Pretty Woman”.

At the time of writing. Hodson is overseeing the finishing touches to the store’s renovation, “a Green’s 2.0,” she calls it. “We will have a fresh new warm and inviting store with the same great staff who give great service and offer comfortable and stylish shoes.”

Although the offering will change with the addition of new clothing and accessories lines, the good old-fashioned community feel won’t. It’s this local support that has contributed to the business’ success, she says. “I love hearing stories from customers who have been served by Nan and Grandie [Louise and Alan] as children and now bring their grandchildren in to be served by Rob and I. Generations serving generations of Cronulla locals – it’s pretty special.”

PUZZLES

What breed is Harvey? Swell Physio and Pilates in-house mascot.

As the weather warms up - plenty of kids all play this aquatic version of hide and seek?

How many year’s is Green’s Footwear celebrating in Cronulla for?

Local Surfing legend April Davey is currently studying what?

Which new bar provides unspoilt views of South Cronulla Beach?

Name of a dangerous current you should avoid swimming in?

Tom Uglys Bridge was originally named ________ River Bridge

Swell Physio and Pilates is located at 2/25 ________ Street.

Cronulla Sharks community armSharks with _______.

Beginner surfers often start on this board?

3. What breed is Harvey? Swell Physio and Pilates in-house mascot.

5. As the weather warms up - plenty of kids all play this aquatic version of hide and seek?

Indi, the staffies cat sister _____. Co-owner and director of Shire Arthouse, Kiah _ _ _?

10. Which new bar provides unspoilt views of South Cronulla Beach?

12. Name of a dangerous current you should avoid swimming in?

Local Mark Jeffree and the GJ Gardner team are planning to walk which iconic track?

6. How many year ' s is Green's Footwear celebrating in Cronulla for?

8. Local Surfing legend April Davey is currently

13. Tom Uglys Bridge was originally named River Bridge

1. Swell Physio and Pilates is located at 2/25

.

4. Beginner surfers often start on this board?

7. Indi, the staffies cat sister

9. Co-owner and director of Shire Arthouse, Kiah

11. Local Mark Jeffree and the GJ Gardner team are planning to walk which iconi track?

2. Cronulla Sharks community arm - Sharks with

Swimming Pool Swimsuit Swimming Summer Storm

Snowcone Surfing Snorkelling Summer

Season Shade Seabreeze Seafood

Seaweed Seashells Sunscreen Sunbaking

Sandcastles Surf Sand Sunshine

BIKRAM IN THE SHIRE