Welcome to Issue #11 of the 2042 Magazine by Neighbourhood Media – our first issue of 2025! Start off with the intriguing history of Henry Lawson and his connection to Newtown. We also spotlight local artists Madwings and Sarah Blasko in our Humans of Newtown profile. Don’t miss our What’s On guide, arts content, and adorable local pet profiles. Foodies will love Stinking Bishop’s new breakfast offering. Plus, we’ve got a beginner’s guide to buying a home with Mortgage Choice and a profile on the communityfocused Papaya Clinic.
It’s all here, packed with the best of Newtown and Enmore. Enjoy!
PUBLISHER - Neighbourhood Media
DESIGNERS - Robert Everett | Lisa Ferron
CONTRIBUTORS - Alec Smart, Rob Everett, Lisa Ferron, Lucy Pearson, Isabella Edwards
Among the list of notable people who lived in Newtown is writer Henry Lawson (1867-1922), who, during the first days (perhaps weeks), of his marriage resided at 154 Probert St with his wife Bertha Bredt, to whom he tied the knot on 15 April 1896.
HHOWEVER , it was a short-lived tenancy, for the 29-yearold author and his intelligent but hapless bride – the 20-year-old daughter of political activist and writer Bertha McNamara – headed west to Perth to try and make their luck on the goldfields.
In 1896 Lawson was enjoying the peak of his literary success. Angus & Robertson had just published his collection of poems, In the Days when the World was Wide and other Verses, and a collection of 52 of his short stories, While the Billy Boils, which were praised by critics and popular with the public.
With these he established his reputation as a chronicler of characters from the lower end of the social ladder.
Lawson was a campaigning socialist and favoured narratives centred on working class struggles. This is attributable to his impoverished childhood and lack of education – he attended school for just three years in a remote country village in the Mudgee district settled by immigrants digging and panning for gold.
Lawson’s father was a Norwegian seaman named Niels Larsen who jumped ship in Melbourne in 1855 and joined the heady influx of immigrants following the Gold Rush. With the discovery of gold in Grenfell, 420km west of Sydney (midway between Dubbo and Wagga Wagga), Larsen, who Anglicised his name to Peter Lawson, relocated there and in 1866 married Louisa Albury.
The following year, on 17 June 1867, their first child, Henry, was born.
The family moved often following Peter’s vain hope for a windfall on the goldfields, and in 1873 eventually settled in Eurunderee in the Mudgee district. There Peter constructed a two-bedroom timber hut that became the village post office, and found work as a building contractor.
There was no school in the area, so Louisa lobbied for the creation of one – resulting in the construction of Eurunderee Provisional School in 1876 – which was a rudimentary single room. Henry later recalled in his poem ‘The Old
Bark School’ that the building was literally “built of bark and poles… the walls were mostly cracks lined with calico and sacks, there was little need for windows...”
However, Henry only undertook a few years of study –despite his talent for words, he was basically uneducated – because he stayed home and managed the household, where he had two younger brothers and twin sisters (one of whom died in her first year), while his mother ran the post office.
In 1876, at the age of nine, Henry was afflicted with an incurable ear infection that degenerated over the next few years until he was completely deaf in one ear. This impacted his ability to communicate – he suffered bullying at school –and he later attributed his extraordinary writing talent to this social isolation.
In 1880, aged 13, Henry abandoned school after just three years study and joined his father in the building trade, moving between Mudgee and the Blue Mountains, during which he ultimately discovered the joys of alcohol and how it alleviated his social anxiety.
By 1882, his parents’ marriage had disintegrated, and Louisa moved to Sydney with her four youngest children and found employment running a boarding house in Philip St in the City. The following year the teenaged Lawson joined her and in 1884 was apprenticed as a carriage painter in Clyde.
He also undertook night studies in an attempt to enrol in a university degree, but failed the entrance exams several times. However, he discovered he had a latent talent for writing – especially observational fiction – and began contributing poems and essays to journals.
On 1 Oct 1887 The Bulletin, a nationalist magazine that advocated Australian independence in the years leading up to the 1900 Federation, published ‘Song of the Republic’ the 20-year-old Lawson’s first poem in print, and thereafter Lawson retained a life-long connection with the editors, who regularly published his creations. In Dec 1888 they published his first short story, ‘His Father’s Mate’.
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Louisa, a talented writer and editor herself, moved in radical intellectual circles and managed The Republican newspaper and in 1888 founded feminist journal The Dawn. Louisa also published her gifted son’s first poems and short stories, and later his first book, Short Stories in Prose and Verse, in Dec 1894.
As his popularity rose, Lawson expressed a desire to move to England, where he believed he would achieve distinction like Charles Dickens, a celebrated chronicler of the underprivileged, and move among gifted writers who would stimulate his creative imagination.
Instead, undermined by his by growing alcoholism and depressive episodes (which his biographer Colin Roderick attributed to bipolar disorder), he made a series of poorlyjudged decisions.
What followed was a decline into poverty, frequent changes
of address, relocations to New Zealand and England to try and advance his career, the failure of his marriage, periods of drunkenness, begging and destitution, short stays in mental hospitals and alcohol drying-out facilities.
There were also numerous prison stretches in Darlinghurst Gaol for repeat offences, mainly for abandoning his wife and two young children and not paying maintenance.
At the end of 1902, his creative endeavours in decline and wracked by low self-esteem, Lawson apparently attempted suicide.
On 6 Dec 1902, a fisherman discovered Lawson at the base of cliffs south of Manly Beach, a plunge of 25-30 metres. Lawson, who later described it as a “fall”, suffered a broken ankle and lacerations above his right eye, and was hospitalised.
Lawson again sought treatment for his alcoholism, checking into a facility for inebriates. His temporary sobriety led to a romantic reunion with his wife and her becoming pregnant.
However, in April 1903, Bertha filed for judicial separation – granted in June – in an affidavit alleging that Lawson was habitually drunk and cruel. Later that year, in October, she gave birth without her husband’s support, but tragically the child was stillborn.
In 1903 Lawson returned to North Sydney and rented one of the rooms above Isabel Byers’ Coffee Palace in Miller St, North Sydney. From here he frequented many of the local bars, and wrote poems about local characters and characteristic locations.
Mrs Byers was an accomplished poet, and evidently doted on her famous but flawed tenant, because she sustained him for the next two decades during his mental and physical decline. Byers not only provided Lawson lodgings,she helped arrange contact with his two children, sourced publications for his writing, negotiated with his publishers and wrote letters to sponsors and creditors to better manage his financial affairs.
Meanwhile, Bertha set up home in 397 ½ South Dowling St, Surry Hills. From here she raised their two kids, several times petitioning the Court for maintenance payments from her wayward husband, who, although he found money to drink, frequently begged and borrowed from friends and associates to pay his bills.
Between 1905 and 1909 Lawson was imprisoned seven times - six for deserting his family and once for public drunkenness - for a total of 159 days.
Lawson’s writing deteriorated, along with his health, as his alcoholism advanced.
Friends rallied to find him work or pay for him to retreat to the countryside to try and dry out and find inspiration, but he deteriorated further and often resorted to begging on Sydney’s city streets or reading his poetry aloud with a hat in which to collect donations.
Lawson died on 2 Sept 1922, aged just 55, of a cerebral haemorrhage in Isabel Byers’ Abbotsford home.
He was granted a New South Wales State Funeral - traditionally reserved for influential politicians – the first for an author, in celebration of his being a ‘distinguished citizen’. Lawson’s body was interred at Waverley Cemetery. In 1931, a bronze statue (designed by George Washington Lambert) of Lawson accompanied by a swagman and his dog was unveiled at The Domain, overlooking Sydney Harbour.
COVER STAR
CCAN you tell us about the origins of MadWings? How did your collaboration come about, and what inspired the name?
Madwings combines Madison Gibbs Wing and Jason Wing. As an artist couple, we started our mural business four years ago, blending our complementary skills. We share a love for street art, social justice, and celebrating Aboriginal culture with joyful visibility.
Your work is deeply rooted in First Nations culture. How do you weave storytelling and traditional knowledge into your art and workshops?
Our art practice continues culture in a contemporary way. We consult local Elders, focus on public stories, and aim for cultural visibility. Researching mob, time, and place, we engage Traditional Owners, teach students, and weave bold, layered education into murals, blending historical and contemporary truths with vibrant imagery.
Newtown has a strong artistic and activist community. How does the area influence your artwork and in turn help you influence others?
We start with a walk on Country, listening and connecting. Our murals tell a visual story from start to finish. Working off Country, we consult Elders, visit significant sites, research histories, and continue the fight for justice, honoring those
By Lucy Pearson
who came before us for future generations. What role does public art play in telling First Nations stories?
Aboriginal people have no separate word for art; it was embedded in life. Traditional public artwork is now replaced by colonial landscapes. Murals address, educate, and celebrate. Public art must return to communities, ensuring Aboriginal and minority cultural presence equals or surpasses colonial visibility on Aboriginal land.
Your workshops cater to all ages, but you also offer First Nations-specific cultural workshops. What do these sessions involve, and why is cultural education so important?
We share our skills with all, as everyone has a story. Aboriginal voices have been silenced for 254 years, and art helps heal and shift perspectives. Public art is for everyone. We focus on cultural education, skill-sharing, and empowering diverse students, fostering future leaders and warriors.
Stencil and painting workshops are a big part of your practice. What draws you to these techniques, and how do they allow for creative expression in a community setting?
The oldest artwork is an Aboriginal hand stencil in
Australia. Our murals modernize cave paintings, using spray paint instead of ochre. Inspired by Chinese paper cuts, stencils offer instant creative freedom and teachable techniques. We also run placard-making workshops for street protests in adult communities.
Art has long been a form of resistance and reclamation for First Nations people. How do you see your work contributing to that tradition?
Paint and spray-paint are protest tools. Murals reclaim space and ensure a public Aboriginal presence. Our murals, a subtle protest, inspire future generations. While our gallery works are hard-hitting, our murals focus on joy, positivity, and community building, which the world needs more of.
What have been some of the most rewarding or surprising moments in your workshops? Have any participant stories stayed with you?
We taught Jessie, an Aboriginal student, who developed her mural skills. She helped on a mural, impressed us, and we employed her until she started her own Aboriginal mural business. Now, she teaches students, adding murals and celebrating Aboriginal culture.
What’s next for MadWings? Are there any upcoming projects, exhibitions, or collaborations we should look out for?
This year, we’re working on exciting projects: a mural near Sydenham Station, a basketball court with Blak Douglas in Green Square, a collaboration with Creature Creature in Ashfield, a Nespresso partnership, a survival memorial in Balmain, a new website, and exhibiting at Murrook Culture Centre on March 8.
Stay tuned for more @Madwings.murals madwings.org
HUMANS OF 2042
By Lucy Pearson
How Sydney’s inner west shaped one of Australia’s best-loved voices
SSARAH BLASKO’S music is steeped in introspection, cinematic soundscapes, and an ethereal quality that has captivated audiences for decades. But beyond the haunting melodies and poetic lyricism, Blasko’s roots are firmly planted in Sydney’s inner west—particularly Newtown, the suburb that played a pivotal role in shaping her artistic journey. A hub of creativity and counterculture, Newtown provided the backdrop for Blasko’s early musical explorations, from intimate gigs at local venues to the streets lined with record stores and second-hand bookshops that fed her artistic curiosity.
Her new album I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain marks a profound moment in her musical journey—one that bridges her personal growth, her relationship with motherhood, and a deep reflection on grief, goodbyes, and the beauty of new beginnings. Six years in the making, this album is a testament to the changes Blasko has experienced and how time and space have shaped her creative vision.
Her first release in six years, I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain was born out of an unexpected and cathartic period in her life. “A year and a half ago, I was broken, hurt, and confused,” she says. “But a year and a half on, I feel clearer and stronger. I’ve had time to think, time to live, time to work out where I want to go with my music and my life.”
The album reflects this inner transformation, a journey that echoes the themes of endings and new beginnings that are central to the record. The process of making the album was both freeing and relaxing for Blasko, as she embraced the creative space without external pressures.
As she recounts, “This album was probably the most relaxed and free-feeling record I’ve made.” She credits this ease to her newfound balance between family life and her career. “Everything feels relaxed and free when I’m working these days,” she adds. “It’s all a walk in the park compared to looking after kids!” The freedom she describes is not just about having control over her time but about embracing her music on her own terms—without the constraints of a record label or anyone telling her what to do.
One of the album’s highlights is “Goodbye!”, a deeply emotional duet with Ryan Downing. Blasko has always been drawn to the power of collaboration, and Downing’s voice complements hers beautifully, adding a timeless, almost cinematic quality to the track. “I started hearing the various lines as responses to one another,” she explains. “Ryan’s voice sounds like it could come from another era… it’s imbued with a drama and timelessness that I love.”
While the album’s music is expansive, Blasko’s personal life in Newtown—her home for many years—also plays a
significant role in shaping the authenticity of her work. Newtown, with its eclectic charm and creative energy, has been both a source of inspiration and grounding for the artist. Some of her favourite haunts give a glimpse into her everyday life beyond the stage. One of her go-to spots is Cairo on Enmore Road, a relaxed eatery that serves fantastic Egyptian food. “It’s a ten-minute walk from my house,” Blasko says, “and I often daydream about their dishes. I usually order the charcoal chicken plate and a karkade.”
Another place close to her heart is Uturn Vintage, a recycled fashion store nestled near a vibrant mural. She enjoys the relaxed vibe, where she’s free to explore the racks without the pressure of overzealous salespeople. “There’s a nice, relaxed vibe to it. I hate shops where people try to help you too much!” Blasko’s connection to Newtown is not just about convenience; it’s about a deep sense of belonging in a place where she can unwind, recharge, and find joy in the simplicity of her surroundings.
“Her
When it comes to family, Blasko’s relationship with her son Jerry brings an added layer of meaning to her personal life. She often takes him to The Courthouse Hotel for a game of pinball and a drink after school. “I’ve enjoyed The Courthouse since I was in my 20s,” she reflects. “Now, in my 40s, I still go there, and I take my son. It’s a very different context these days, but I like the neighbourhood feel of the place.”
Blasko’s relationship with Newtown is also reflected in her music. The raw, unpolished essence of the area mirrors the candid and honest themes explored in her songs. Whether it’s strolling through Camperdown Memorial Park at sunset or attending a show at the iconic Enmore Theatre , Newtown has offered Blasko a sense of community and connection. She recalls a lifealtering performance at Enmore Theatre in 2004 by The Flaming Lips , which left an indelible mark on her. “One of the most special nights of my life was playing my own show at the Enmore,” she shares. “It was a moment of pride and joy, and I’ll never forget the celebration that followed across the street at karaoke.”
As Sarah Blasko prepares to embark on her upcoming tour, her reflections on the journey that led to I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain offer a rich tapestry of emotional depth, personal transformation, and creative liberation. Newtown remains at the heart of this journey—an inspiring yet grounded environment that nurtures her evolution both as an artist and as a person.
her life.”
With her new album now out, Sarah Blasko stands at the summit of her journey, ready to share her most intimate, cathartic, and hopeful work yet. Her path from Newtown to the stage reflects not just a geographical journey but one of self-discovery, resilience, and the embrace of new beginnings.
WHAT’S ON
From Laughs to Live Music – Here’s Your Ultimate Guide to Local Fun!
LOOKING for something fun to do around Newtown and Enmore? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re after a good laugh, a live gig, or something totally different, we’ve got you covered.
SYDNEY STAND-UP COMEDY CHAMPS
(Every Tues, 7pm)
Waywards (Bank Upstairs)
This show is all killer and no filler! Sydney’s best standup comedians have a limited time to win your vote. You’ll decide on the winner each night. Your favourite comedians will perform again. And the audience will choose who takes home the trophy! There’s even a FREE stand-up comedy class (6:15pm-7pm) before the show where you can learn the art of stand up comedy.
WHEEL OF POURTUNE
(Every Wed, 7pm)
The Courty
This one-of-a-kind contest is an amalgamation of all your favourite retro game shows, smooshed into one epic night of chance. The game consists of three rounds, each with different rules, games, and prizes. There will be beers, merch and food vouchers to be won - good luck!
TWILIGHT THEMED TRIVIA
(March 27)
The Marly
Are you Team Edward, Team Jacob, or just Team Trivia? Celebrate your love for the saga with a night of vampires and iconic quotes. Pair it up with a refreshing drink in hand, plus a bite to eat from Fat Belly Jacks menu. Bookings recommended, laughs guaranteed.
In The Next Room or The Vibrator Play
By Sarah Ruhl
| New Theatre (April 22 - May 17)
“A flick of the finger – On, off, on off! We shall be like gods!”
In the spa town of Saratoga Springs, shortly after the end of the American Civil War and at the dawn of electricity, Dr Givings specializes in gynecological disorders. This clever, funny, profoundly thoughtful play throws a feminist light on the emotional and physical neglect endured by women in a male-dominated society.
SOMOS (March 27 - April 6)
By Rafael Bonachela Sydney Dance Company - Nielsen Studio
Somos, translated as “we are” in Spanish, is a tender and powerful work, featuring a journey through evocative solos, intimate duets and trios – all imbued with a distinctly Spanish essence. Known for his distinctive emotive pairings, Bonachela’s work celebrates the strength and individuality of the dancers, while delving into the compelling dynamics between them. Don’t miss this highly anticipated encore season.
SECOND IDOL SINGLE LAUNCH (March 29) Bootleggers
Second Idol launches their new single Postcolonial Blues, a reflective, slow-burning anthem that contemplates colonialism and the weight of history. Supported by The All Mother and Bodywire, this is also a fundraiser event for Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders).
MALLRAT (April 3)
Enmore Theatre
Dance music that has heart and potent magic - will be manifested into life on stage, alongside all your favourite Mallrat hits, accompanied by her incredible live band. The first Mallrat headline shows in two years are simply not to be missed! Supported by Daine, Denim Girl, Prophecy Girl
NEWTOWN
SOUND 010 (April 4)
Anton Johansen, Between Two & Katie Reid
Botany View Hotel
The Botany View Hotel, in partnership with Young Henrys Brewery, presents Newtown Sound, a new weekly live music event showcasing the vibrant talent of Sydney’s Inner West. Check out three incredible, local, Inner West artists - all in the same night. All tickets give access for the entire night, and you can support the artist you’re coming to see by purchasing their ticket.
(June 19) Enmore
Ed Gamble has minced a load of meat (thoughts), piped it into a casing (show) and it’s coming to Enmore Theatre in June. There will be all your classic Gamble ranting, raving and spluttering but he’s doing fine mentally. Promise.
BY TAYLOR MAC
CONNECTING TO THE COMMUNITY ARTISTS SHARON BILLINGE & ANN WOO THE NEIGHBOURS
WALKING down Erskineville Road towards the train station at night, the sign for the Hot Dog Cool Cat Pet Salon pierces one’s peripheral vision from a distance. The glare it gives off is exacerbated by the glossy, reflective tiles of the vet next door.
As you approach the intersection of Morrissey Road, however, this light seems to soften. Another few steps and it dims completely beside the thousand-watt smile of a young Olivia Newton-John. The singer and film star beams out from a mural painted two years ago by local artists Sharon Billinge and Ann Woo in the wake of Newton-John’s death.
Above the portrait, steely angular letters spell ‘Xanadu’ and beneath, a lyric from the cult film’s titular song – “a million lights are dancing and there you are, a shooting star.” For a few metres around the wall, the night recedes.
The Xanadu mural is just one of many public art pieces created by Billinge and Woo in Erskineville since 2020. Woo, who has lived in the area for over 25 years, spearheaded the ‘I Love Erko’ movement, which began as a series of murals around the suburb, but has since made the jump to tote bags and stickers which can be found all over the inner west.
The project began during COVID, says Woo, and was an effort to “keep everyone’s spirits up during lockdown.”
Similarly, Billinge’s Blue Wren Walking Trail, a Banksyesque stencilling and mural project, also sprang from a desire to strengthen community bonds during the pandemic.
“It was a tester project”, says Billinge. An attempt to create both “a little treasure hunt” and sound the alarm about the dramatic fall in numbers of small bird species across the city.
Last Christmas, the pair unveiled their latest collaboration, a mural on hot pink vinyl commissioned by design studio the Frost Collective. Running the length of the Erskineville Project housing development on Mitchell Road, the work features portraits of the people, places and animal companions that are iconic to the suburb.
“There were people selected that you would see on the high street every day,” says Woo. “People who run some of the local businesses. Then there were people that we just knew and have lived in Erko for a long time and have a deep connection with the place.”
The work gave Billinge and Woo the chance to research, interview and photograph some of these mainstays of their community, which was a unique experience for both of them.
“You would never get a project opportunity like this usually”, says Billinge. “Usually it’s a community glossover sort of thing. It’s like ‘Oh, can you community up this thing?’ This was like they were really upfront about saying we want to do it properly.”
And the results are glorious. On Mitchell Road, a slash of Florida-pink neon streaks away into the distance, muscling the night out of its path. As you approach, the irrepressible wiry nest of Miss Nanna Miss Koori’s huge hair is the first thing to catch your eye.
A little further down, pink tongue hanging out, Tango the poodle seems poised to bound over to visitors. Closer still and small snippets of memories swim into view. Friday night fish and chips at Erko Oval. A funeral procession held for a closing record store.
But this is only the first iteration. For the second part of the project, Sharon and Ann have called for submissions from locals describing their favourite person, place or memory in Erskineville. Selected entries will then be added to the existing mural in the coming months.
Before unveiling last year, Billinge and Woo remember feeling trepidatious about how their work would be viewed by Erskinevillians.
“You can put something out and think it’s the most benign, lovely thing ever,” says Billinge, “and someone will be like ‘My cat died when it looked at this.’” But the feedback has so far been overwhelmingly positive. Woo seems more delighted by the less tangible ripples it’s sending through the suburb.
“A local business owner said that her customers are calling her by her name, having seen her on the mural, which is so lovely,” she says. “It’s strengthening the connection in the community.”
Early Learning to Year 12
Immersive Language Programs
Ultimo Campus, near Sydney CBD
Unique Music Programs
Diverse STEAM Opportunities
Kangaroo Valley Rural Campus
Careers and University Guidance
HEALTH
PA beautiful approach to women’s health.
PAPAYA CLINIC is located in Newtown Alice Street; close to the city but a world away from your typical multiservice health centre. With a focus on women’s health, Papaya Clinic has brought together an all-female team of professionals with expertise across a range of disciplines. Their goal is to deliver specialised service in a caring, safe and collaborative environment.
Director and Founder of Papaya Clinic, Winnie Wu, brings a long list of credentials plus years of experience as a physiotherapist, business owner, pilates instructor, professional dancer, and mum to her practice. She is a pelvic health & musculoskeletal physiotherapist with a special interest in helping women through all life stages including pre and postnatal, all through to post-menopausal years.
To that end, Winnie and her team of pelvic physios, naturopaths, acupuncturist have created the Embrace Program for pregnant and postpartum women, and the Menopause Mastery program for perimenopausal women. Their health programs are tailored and provide best practice frameworks to help women navigate health concerns, prevent complications and feel good and empowered going through the delicate period of change.
Papaya Clinic focuses on providing holistic care across the four pillars of health – hormonal, physical, emotional, nutritional health. Their team of experts work closely with one another and seeing one is like seeing all.
When is the best time to see a pelvic floor physio? When
you have pelvic floor symptoms such as leaking, heaviness, straining, incomplete urinary emptying, painful intercourse, etc, that’s when we highly recommend getting your pelvic floor assessed. If you’re expecting, you can do that safely from 20 weeks’ gestation onwards, and your physios can work through strategies to reduce the risk of tearing during labour.
Winnie and her team have prepared a Mama Planner, which you can download it for free on the Papaya Clinic website. It details care recommendations for each trimester, with the help of professionals such as physiotherapists, midwives, acupuncturist, naturopaths and doulas.
The same care is provided to women of all life stages, including those with chronic pain, poor gut health, emotional stress, symptoms with perimenopause and postmenopause. Through different disciplines within Papaya Clinic, and movements education such as Clinical Pilates, the team takes care of your whole wellbeing. Papaya Clinic
an appointment online. papayaclinic.com.au Suite 6, 32-72 Alice Street, Newtown A holistic collaborative approach to Women’s Health
PETS
SAMMY - Despite weighing in at a whopping 35kgs, Sammy the American Staffordshire Terrier is convinced he’s a lap dog. He loves snacks, belly rubs, and pretending to be tough, though he’s really just a big teddy bear. He’s well and truly earned his PhD in being mischievous and he’s also a professional treat thief, amateur napper, and the undisputed champion of “who’s a good boy?” contests. When he’s not hanging out at Henson Park, he’s mastering the art of puppy dog eyes at Black Market Coffee with his paw-rent to get extra snacks.
MIA, affectionately known as Moo, is a 13-year-old Rottweiler-German Shepherd mix with a heart of gold and a mischievous streak. She loves her afternoon walks and adores her sister, Munchie (the cat)—though she gets a little jealous if Munchie steals the spotlight. Despite her age, Mia is in fantastic shape, always ready for an adventure. She’s a pro at sneaking onto couches, raiding garbage bins, and destroying even the toughest stuffed toys in record time!
MUNCH
SAMMY
MUNCH, an 18-year-old Scottish Fold, is a regal senior who knows exactly what she wants—and when she wants it. She spends most of her days snoozing in sunbeams, but when awake, she’s either demanding food or tolerating her much larger sister, Mia (the dog). Despite being a fraction of Mia’s size, Munchie rules the house with quiet authority. A vet visit? No thanks. Cuddles? Only on her terms. This wise old lady may be tiny, but she’s definitely in charge!
Is your pet a star? Submit your photos to our Facebook page
We never forget the pets who share our lives and give us their unconditional love. The bond we share with them, and the love we feel, is like no other. Including a gift in your Will to RSPCA NSW allows you to give back and say thank you to the special pets who enrich your life. Find out how your love for all animals can live on through a gift in your Will to RSPCA NSW. Visit rspcansw.org/wills or call 02 9782 4419.
PUZZLES
This play, written by Xavier Coy, takes a look at bipolar disorder from the inside?
First name of Henry Lawson’s wife, whom he married in 1896?
Artist, Sarah Blasko, loves the relaxed vibe of this Newtown recycled fashion shop?
This local venue plays host to the Sydney Stand-Up Comedy Champs?
Which comedian has a gig at the Enmore Theatre on June 19?
What is the name of New Theatre’s first production in 2025?
Where can you play Wheel of Pourtune every Wednesday at 7pm?
Henry Lawson and his wife moved from Newtown, NSW to which Aussie state in 1896?
This local Italian restaurant has been a Newtown staple for 20 years?
Local favourite the Stinking Bishops has just launched this new offering?
Which Aussie artist has just released the album ‘I Just Need to Conquer This Mountain’?
This incredible work by Rafael Bonachelam, presented by Sydney Dance Company, returns for its encore season?
3. This play, written by Xavier Coy takes a look at
12. Which comedian has a gig at the Enmore Theatre on June 19?
5. This local Italian restaurant has been a staple for 20 years?
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TANYA PLIBERSEK
FEDERAL MEMBER FOR SYDNEY
Dear Neighbourhood Media readers,
The Albanese Labor Government has worked hard to help you with the cost of living, making it easier to see a Medicare bulk billing doctor and making medicines cheaper. And we will continue to help you.
Top-up tax cuts
Combined with Labor’s first round of tax cuts, the average tax cut is expected to be around $43 per week in 2026–27 and around $50 per week in 2027–28. It’s a bit of extra help for every taxpayer on top of our tax cuts that started flowing on 1 July 2024.
We’re helping with the cost of living while also easing inflation. Peter Dutton’s Coalition rejects them and says it will cut $315 billion which will affect essential services like Medicare, pensions, housing, veterans’ entitlements and public education.
Cheaper medicines get even cheaper
You will pay no more than $25 for medications listed under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). For pensioners, the cost of medicines remains frozen at $7.70 until 2030.
More bulk billing GPs
We’re investing in training more doctors and nurses and will further expand bulk-billing incentives so that 9 out of 10 GP visits will be bulk billed by 2030.
More Medicare Urgent Care Clinics
We will add another 50 Medicare Urgent Care Clinics to the existing 87 - including at Burwood, Chatswood and St Peters/Marrickville. All you need is your Medicare card – there are no additional payments.
Making it easier to buy and rent a home by: investing $33 billion to build more homes for Australians; expanding our Help to Buy scheme; and banning foreign investors from purchasing existing homes.
More choice, lower costs and better health care for women
We’re delivering big savings for hundreds of thousands of women by: adding new oral contraceptives and new menopausal hormone therapies to the PBS; adding more bulk billing for IUDs and birth control implants; and by making contraceptives and treatment for uncomplicated urinary tract infections available directly from pharmacies.
Building a better and fairer education system by:
Cutting early education costs for around 1 million families
Building universal early childhood education with a Three Day Guarantee of subsidised care
Delivering full and fair funding for public schools
Cutting student debt further by 20% and lowering repayments
Making 100,000 fee-free TAFE places permanently available every year
Backing and building renewables
Australia’s transition to a net-zero economy began with the Albanese Labor Government. In just three years we’ve approved enough renewable energy to power over 10 million homes – almost every household in Australia. Renewables now power 46% of the grid, backed up by gas, large scale storage and 400 community batteries, which we’ve been rolling out around the country. We’ve already added more energy to the grid than Peter Dutton’s $600 billion nuclear plan could hope to produce in 25 years.
Energy bill relief: A third year of energy bill rebates of up to $150 for households and eligible small businesses will be delivered from 1 July, 2025.
On top of this, no other government has done more to protect the environment. To learn more about this and how we’re easing the cost of living, please scan the QR codes.
HEALTH/WELLNESS SERVICES
A H SALON
For nearly 10 years Newtown locals and visitors alike have enjoyed being cared for by world renowned hairdressers in a relaxed atmosphere. Situated in the vibrant centre of Newtown, this salon space features high ceilings, elegant arches, and large skylights that flood the salon with natural light. The polished concrete floors, combined with rustic steel elements and luxurious marble accents, create a modern yet inviting atmosphere that perfectly captures the eclectic spirit of the Newtown community.
3/325 King St, Newtown | 02 9565 5622 | a-h-salon.com
Marli Rose
MARLI ROSE HAIRDRESSING
Making the local community feel confident and beautiful for over 10 years! Head into Marli Rose and let their friendly, professional team help you look and feel your best in a relaxed, welcoming space. Whether you’re after a quick refresh or a bold new look, they can make it happen!
Reset! An integrative 4-month health program designed to help you regain control of your health. Whether you’re in perimenopause navigating the initial hormonal shifts, deep in menopause, or till 3 years postmenopausal. From hormonal balance and physical strength to emotional well-being, the Papaya Clinic has built a holistic program delivered by pelvic health physiotherapists, acupuncturists, and naturopaths.
Australia’s leading experts in sports physiotherapy and remedial massage therapy for professional artists and athletes. We know that movement is medicine so access expert care and start moving well today. Offering Sports Physiotherapy, Injury Rehabilitation, Dance Physiotherapy, Remedial Massage Therapy and Clinical Conditioning. Expect more from your body, health and movement goals - we will help you find your exceptional. To welcome you to Performance Medicine, receive 30% off any service using code PMLOCAL (valid until 30.07.25)
Whether you’re looking to purchase a new home, buy an investment property or even find your dream car, we can help. With access to thousands of loans from more than 35 lenders, your local brokers at Mortgage Choice Newtown / Eveleigh will work hard to find the right home loan for you.
Bay 5, Suite 14/2 Locomotive St, Eveleigh mortgagechoice.com.au/suzanne.taylor
PETS
SYDNEY DOG AND CATS HOME
Sydney’s only charity pound and community facility. The Home has been taking care of Sydney’s lost, abandoned and neglected pets since 1946. We provide shelter, food and veterinary care to thousands of animals each year, servicing multiple council areas across Sydney. Operating by appointment only - sydneydogandcatshome.org
SYDNEY UNIVERSITY VET
Acclaimed internationally for its exceptional health, care and welfare of animals. It is a general practice veterinary clinic, a referral centre for other vets to send complex cases and a teaching hospital for veterinary science students to learn the practical components of the veterinary profession. This practice also offers 24 Hour Emergency Care.
65 Parramatta Rd, Camperdown - 9351 3437
THE CAT PROTECTION SOCIETY
Each year the Cat Protection Society of NSW helps thousands of cats and the people who love them. They take in homeless cats and kittens and provide them with all the veterinary care and rehabilitation they need before finding them the loving and responsible homes they deserve. The Cat Protection Society of NSw also helps cats in the community with their discounted feline health services including discount desexing, vaccination and microchipping as well as providing free information and education for cat owners and people working with cats. If you’re in the area drop by their Cat Boutique 85 Enmore Road Newtown, open 7-days a week, 10am to 5pm, for all your cat care essentials including cat food, litter, flea and worm treatments, toys and much more for your feline friend plus great gifts for cat-lovers.
The Cat Boutique - Open 7 days (10 - 5pm) - 85 Enmore Road, Newtown. Office - 103 Enmore Rd - 9519 7201 info@catprotection.org.au
SYDNEY UNIVERSITY VET
Acclaimed internationally for its exceptional health, care and welfare of animals. It is a general practice veterinary clinic, a referral centre for other vets to send complex cases and a teaching hospital for veterinary science students to learn the practical components of the veterinary profession. This practice also offers 24 Hour Emergency Care.
