HIDDEN
NOWOPENSUNDAYS
Visit to WIN!
There
prizes up for grabs at Greenwood Plaza on Sundays
Greenwood Plaza in North Sydney is now open seven days!
Romeo’s IGA and Greenwood Grocer, plus a selection of other retailers, are now trading on Sundays from 8am-5pm. To celebrate these new opening hours, Greenwood Plaza is giving you the chance to win instant prizes that are just a Sunday shopping trip away, all thanks to the free Greencard App!
Gift cards and special offers up for grabs...
From $20 gift cards to exciting retailer offers, you have the chance to win instant prizes with Greenwood Plaza’s fun virtual scratch card. Simply make a trip to the centre to visit the open retailers and scan the in-store QR code
using the Greencard App camera. Your instant win virtual scratch card will appear on your phone screen to reveal if you’ve won. Plus there’s the chance to go in the major prize draw to win a $500 gift card too!
Not got the Greencard App? Here’s how to get started... Downloading the Greencard App couldn’t be easier. If you have an Apple device, simply head to the App Store. For those with Android handsets, go to Google Play. Search for Greencard and download the App for free. Once it’s on your device, register your account and complete your profile. Bring the App up when you’re shopping at Greenwood Plaza to scan the QR codes in store to collect points and win prizes. Too easy! ●
While our healthcare workers were on the frontline battling COVID-19, an army of locals got to work to support them, and us, as we all adjusted to lockdown. On page 4, we acknowledge some of these Hidden Heroes and their contributions to our community. To all those who have gone over and above in the past few months, from the healthcare teams to the teachers, the pharmacists, cleaners, bus drivers, volunteers, baristas and more…thank you. As we send these pages to print, we’re seeing the beginnings of a new society start to emerge, one that’s hopefully kinder, more accepting and fairer for all. As our Hidden Heroes show, we can all step up and make a difference.
Anna Gordon EDITOR
ART DIRECTOR: Belinda Spillane
ADVERTISING: Kate Fox kate@northsider.com.au
HIDDEN
As COVID-19 shut down the North Sydney area, our essential workers adapted to a constantly changing new ‘normal’. Here, we acknowledge some of the pandemic’s hidden heroes, whose e orts supported our frontline health workers, gave hope to the vulnerable and kept our community going...
“You can see you’ve made a di erence”
Lisa Liber, counsellor and program manager, The Kirribilli Centre
My role at the Kirribilli Centre is to run group wellbeing programs, mainly for people supporting someone with a mental illness. I do face-to-face counselling and facilitate small groups around topics in mental health. Moving all of my support work online because of COVID-19 has been quite a challenge. Some of my clients are older and not familiar with that kind of communication. I did a lot of work helping with Zoom video conferencing. People were very grateful. Some of them are very isolated and
Bobby
HEROES
were so excited to see a friendly face on the computer. That was very rewarding. We get all sorts of requests for help. During lockdown, I was contacted by an animal rescue group who’d heard about a dog living alone because his elderly owner was in hospital. Bobby was being fed by neighbours but had been alone for weeks without the constant companionship he was used to. I was able to collect Bobby and take him to a couple who could foster him because they were working from home. It was perfect because Bobby had someone with him 24/7. That’s the best part of the job. When you can help someone and see you’ve made a difference.” l The Kirribilli Centre is a place for the community to gather, participate in classes, attend free community services and seek assistance. Contact 9922 4428 to find out how you can get involved.
“SOME OF THEM ARE VERY ISOLATED AND WERE SO EXCITED TO SEE A FRIENDLY FACE ON THE COMPUTER”
“I’M HAPPY I CAN KEEP RIDING”
Mario Sergio Junior, North Sydney Deliveroo rider and student
“Since COVID-19 it’s been busier but fortunately my job hasn’t changed too much. I’m safe as the amount of contact I have with restaurants and customers has decreased through contact-free delivery and I’m happy I can keep riding during these tough times.”
“The community has really come together”
Anne O’Driscoll, Vinnies Northern Suburbs Regional President and Lauren Leahy, Vinnies Northern Suburbs Client Support Assistant
“WORDS CAN’T EXPRESS WHAT THESE DONATIONS MEAN TO ME, THE VOLUNTEERS, AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, THE PEOPLE WE ASSIST”
Lauren Leahy, Northern Suburbs Client Support Assistant based at Vinnies Crows Nest
Our work has changed in a huge way. People think of Vinnies and think of the op shops, but there’s so much more to what we do. We support all sorts of people with everything from food vouchers to advocacy and legal advice. One of our main services is to visit people in their homes to help. We can learn a lot more about what someone might need that way. For example, someone might tell us they’re fine but we’ll notice they only have a thin blanket on their bed or that their pantry is empty. Because of COVID-19, we couldn’t
“On the frontline keeping women safe”
Liz Mackinlay, Chair of the Board for Mary’s House, a lower north shore refuge for women and their children escaping domestic violence.
“During the first six weeks of lockdown we saw less referrals coming to us. COVID-19 was a frightening time for everyone, so leaving a situation, no matter how scary that situation might have been, was a step too far. Lockdown also meant that women in violent or abusive relationships were not having community contact with the people who usually check in and ask if they’re ok. As restrictions lift, we’re seeing an increase in numbers. We expect more clients to come to us. Women are finding a way. While we’ve had to reduce the numbers in the refuge due to Government restrictions, we’ve increased our community support. We’ve doubled staffing with twice as many social workers.
We have no Government funding. Everything comes from community support and donations. If women know there’s people here who care, we hope that will help them to make decisions that make their safety a priority. We’re an essential service. Our team’s on the frontline keeping women safe." ●
If you want to help Mary’s House, head to maryshouse.org.au or email donations@maryshouse.org.au
make those visits. We got on the phones instead, calling round everyone from the elderly to the isolated, people having cancer treatment, people with heart conditions, those with mental health issues and families unable to get what they need.
We’re seeing new kinds of clients too. Overseas workers and students, chefs, sole traders and people who’ve suddenly found themselves out of work for the first time. These are people who have never had to access support before and asking for help is really hard because they’ve never had to.
One sole trader had lost all their work. They weren’t computer literate and it meant all the online forms were overwhelming. With no funds for bills or food, they felt totally lost and attempted suicide.
They were referred to us for help and we were able to take care of immediate things,
“EVERY KIND ACT GOES A LONG WAY”
Anouchka Ramahotar, Customer Service Assistant Manager, Woolworths Neutral Bay, Grosvenor Street
“When COVID-19 first hit, I was responsible for ensuring customers were practising social distancing and keeping them up to date with product limits. It was a stressful time so I really tried to make everyone as comfortable as possible. Our Community Hour for the elderly and our healthcare workers made us feel we were making a small difference and when we sent flowers to Bougainvillea Retirement Village on Mother’s Day, their big smiles meant the world to us. Every kind act goes a long way for team morale and I’m so proud of how we came together to support our community. ”
HIDDEN HEROES
like sorting bills and organising food, as well as advocating for them in the system. With our shops closed, we’ve lost a huge source of funding so we’ve definitely had to be creative over the past few months. We ran a local campaign for donations of non-perishable foods and I was absolutely blown away by the kindness of the community. These donations mean we’re able to accompany food vouchers with a hamper to help see people through. Words can’t express what these donations mean to me, the volunteers, and most importantly, the people we assist. Everyone has been struggling but the community has really come together. We’re the bridge to help people help people. It makes a huge difference. l For more information about how you can help Vinnies locally, email lauren.leahy@vinnies.org.au
“PART
OF SOMETHING BIGGER”
Joby Jose, Store Manager, Aldi North Sydney, Mount Street
“The store changed a lot. We had screens installed at the registers, social distancing markers on the floor, hand sanitiser at the entrance and wipes for trolleys. Two security guards manage customer flows and patrol social distancing and customers and staff felt safer once they arrived. Days were long and tiring but the team were always ready to help. They genuinely care. A customer gave us a card thanking us for all our hard work. This little gesture meant we were part of something bigger.”
“WE’VE WELCOMED MANY NEW VOLUNTEERS”
Amy Budden, Food Services Manager, Meals on Wheels Crows Nest
“COVID-19 has been challenging. We’ve had to suspend volunteers over 70 and physically distance. When toilet paper was in high demand, Woolworths made a generous donation and we were delighted to deliver this highly sought after commodity to people in need. The upside, if there is one, has been welcoming both new clients and many new volunteers.”
If you’d like to receive Meals on Wheels, or to volunteer, call 9439 5122.
“It’s heartbreaking to see so many new faces”
Lavender Bay couple Chris Vagg and Olga Puga run Pass It On Clothing, a social enterprise providing clothing and community contact direct to Sydney’s homeless every week.
Within a week of lockdown being announced, our numbers began to spike. We started seeing foreign students and overseas workers who didn’t qualify for Government assistance and were unable to travel home. By the second month of lockdown, the number of pieces of clothing we passed on each week was up 61%. We’ve had to adjust on the run and comply with new government directions to make sure we’re still able to help the people who need us most. The really sad change is the lack of connection with our homeless friends at our outreach service. We feel everyone is really missing conversations and connection. And instead of being able to choose their own clothing items from us, we’re now handing out packs containing a full outfit which includes socks, beanies, jumpers and jackets. While we can’t offer the dignity of choice right now, it’s more important to keep going as virtually all other outreach services were suspended. With restrictions easing, we’re unfortunately anticipating a dramatic increase in the people accessing our service, especially when the Jobkeeper subsidy is removed. It’s heartbreaking to see so many new faces looking frightened and lost. It’s going to be a tough Winter. l
For more info about Pass It On Clothing, head to Facebook or email passitonclothingandco@gmail.com
“IT’S GOING TO BE A TOUGH WINTER.”
“PEOPLE
SEEM PRETTY HAPPY TO SEE ME!”
Charlie Naoum, Toll Delivery Driver
“I’ve been delivering with Toll for 30 years now. We became a lot busier delivering office equipment and laptops for people to work from home as COVID-19 hit. And coffee bean orders were huge! People are usually at work when we deliver so it’s been unusual seeing them. As soon as the gate squeaks open, they’re running to the door and waving – all socially distanced and contactless of course. They always seem pretty happy to see me! We’re proud to deliver on time and it’s fulfilling to know we’re helping.”
“WE WORKED AROUND THE CLOCK”
Franco Spitalieri, Store Manager, Coles Neutral Bay
“During the panic buying period, my team worked as if it was the Christmas season day in and day out for five weeks, without the time they would usually have to prepare. They worked around the clock to try and slow panic buying and restock the shelves. Neutral Bay customers have gone out of their way to help each other and have brought the team boxes of chocolates and homemade cookies to say thank you. Interaction with customers is the best part of my job.”
“I’ve been blown away by people’s generosity”
Kaylie Smith, lower north shore founder of @buythemacoffee, a global movement on Instagram and GoFundMe raising funds to buy healthcare workers coffee during their shifts.
“I felt compelled to help and show gratitude for healthcare workers during COVID-19. I asked my local healthcare community what would be meaningful. The majority said simply a cup of coffee. I started out helping my local hospital, the Royal North Shore. There are some incredible small businesses providing coffee to hospitals so I reached out to partner with them and pay for coffees. Next, I started a GoFundMe, working on it in the evenings after my job. In the first
week we went from buying coffees for the RNS to buying coffees for the whole of Sydney. Within three weeks we were buying coffees in every state as well as New Zealand and the UK. I’ve been blown away by people’s generosity. We’ve raised over $100,000 and given away over 25,000 cups of coffee. I’ve received hundreds of messages of thanks and encouragement and knowing this small act of kindness can make a small difference is what keeps me going." l
Find these treasures just around the corner
Jones & Co
Estee Vase, $55
Rapture Living
150 Blues Point Road, McMahons Point
artist
‘Don’t be Cocky’ tote design by Emily Crockford, $35 Studio A studioa.org.au
Natalie Scarf, Metallic Blue, $69.99 Carolina Shop 3, 9/17 Young Street, Neutral Bay or carolina.net.au
EMU Australia Jolie Chestnut Slipper, $79.95 Home and Giving Shop M18, Greenwood Plaza, 36 Blue Street,Nth Sydney or homegivingsydney.com.au
Moss St. Peony Rose Scented Candle, 320g, $32.95
Village Emporio 500B Miller Street, Cammeray
Happy Hair Brush, Gold, $39.95 Happy Hair Brush happyhairbrush.com.au
Indus Moss Stitch Throw, $149 Rapture Living 150 Blues Point Road, McMahons Point made locally
Vibrant flowers, from $65 Olive & Moss 41 Ridge Street, Nth Sydney or oliveandmoss.com.au
The Botanist Gift Card The Botanist 17 Willoughby Street, Kirribilli or thebotanist.com.au
Glorietta House Made Chilli Oil, 200ml, $12 Glorietta 100 Mount Street, Nth Sydney or glorietta.com.au
Prices and availability correct at time of going to press.
local
The Aussie Game Changer Hair Brush
The Happy Hair Brush is a very special combination of nylon pins and boar bristles on a large vented curved paddle head which makes brushing knotty, matted or crazy hair drama free. This brush is awesome for any hair – afro, long, thick, thin and whispy, curly, tangled and the best part, it actually works! We guarantee it. With almost two thousand 5 STAR reviews, you can believe the Happy Hair Brush isn’t a gimmick or a fad. We promise you that if you don’t love your brush, you can send it back for a full refund.
PUBLIC NOTICES
1. The proposed upgrade to the existing facility involves:
• Installation of three new 5G antennas on new mounts;
• Reconfiguration and replacement of the existing panel antennas (measuring no more than 2.8 metres long) on new mounts;
• Reconfiguration of existing and installation of new ancillary equipment, including RRUs, GPS antennas, cabling and other items associated with safety and operation of the facility;
• Reconfiguration and installation of equipment within the existing equipment shelter.
2. Vodafone regards the proposed installation an Exempt Development under the Schedule 3A of State Environmental Planning Policy (Infrastructure) 2007 based on the description above.
3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2018 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Should you require further information or wish to comment, please contact: Jodie Leeds from Nokia Solutions & Networks on 0420 310 857 or at communityrelations.vha@groups.nokia.com by Monday 29 June 2020. Further information may also be obtained from www.rfnsa.com.au/2061010
OR NOT TO GO? TO GO
Forget FOMO (fear of missing out), do you have FOGO (fear of going out)?
North Sydney clinical psychologist Dr Clinton Moore is here to help...
With the end of lockdown in sight we’re faced with yet another major adjustment; this time it’s the return to normality. But despite the pubs reopening and the impending return of our beloved sports, life isn’t quite ‘normal’ and probably won’t be for some time.
There’s still a sense of apprehension for many, with anxiety around going to the shops or jumping on the train as it gets busy again.
Anxiety at its core is about threat. It’s about the risk of something bad happening in the future. Normally our first instinct is to try and fix the problem coming our way, but COVID-19 poses a tricky dilemma. How do we solve the problem of an invisible threat?
The truth is that there’s no way to gain this certainty. Instead, we do what seems like the sensible thing and try to regain some control in uncertain times. But control can be a funny bedfellow. While control can give you a sense of security, it can slip from helpful to unhelpful without much effort.
Helpful control might look like washing your hands once before you eat. This would be a non time consuming way of protecting yourself from COVID-19 that lets you still go about your daily life.
Unhelpful control happens when you start to prioritise safety over meaningful activity in life. In other words, you decide that the only acceptable risk is zero risk. While this might
“HOW DO WE SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF AN INVISIBLE THREAT?”
seem to make sense in light of COVID-19, living your whole life locked away probably won’t provide a great deal of fulfilment.
The first step to moving past control and getting back into the world is finding a way to make some space for the uncertainty.
One of the best ways to do this is to connect with your values so you have a guide other than anxiety to influence your actions. Start by writing a list of the things that matter most to you in the world. This could be family, creativity, spirituality, achieving etc.
Once you have your list, you can start to check in and see whether your decision to stay home is in line with the things that really matter to you. For example, would your value of family be better served by another Zoom call or going to see them in person? When you think in this way, you still make space for some of the anxiety, but you’re not letting it dictate your life. l
Dr Clinton Moore is the founder of Cadence Psychology - a North Sydney Clinical Psychology practice with a focus on helping people find their key to change. For more information head to cadencepsychology.com.au
vouchers & Afterpay
Village Emporio – your local fashion and lifestyle store with lots to love!
There’s lots to love at Village Emporio - situated in the heart of Cammeray on Miller Street next to the post office. From the range of all-Australian fashion brands to the beautiful complimentary accessories and the delightful gift ideas. All served up with a friendly welcome and expert advice from the Village Emporio team. Come and visit us today!
Brands include: Brave and True, Holiday, The Shanty, Vigorella, Humidity Australia, Amici made in Italy, Peta and Jain Bags, MelanO jewellery, Moss St Fragrances and more!
500B Miller Street, Cammeray
P 0435 785 179 E shop@villageemporio.com.au
@villageemporio
WHAT’S ON
The Rowers Bar is open from 4pm Friday and from midday Saturday and Sunday. Also open Thursday from the 18 June. Archie Bear café is open seven days from 8am to 4pm. mosmanrowers.com.au
ROWERS RELAUNCH!
Head to the reopened Mosman Rowers for comfort food favourites in one of the lower north shore's most beautiful harbourside nooks. This winter the Rowers Bar is serving up modern takes on old classics with a focus on fresh seafood. Think clam chowder and crab linguine, pea and ham soup and bread and butter pudding. To celebrate, locals are invited to submit their fave family recipes for a chance to have them featured on the menu. ●
WHAT’S ON • WINTER
NORTHSIDE PRODUCE MARKET
Every first and third Saturday from 6 June, Ted Mack Civic Park, 8am-12pm Our favourite local fresh produce market is BACK! From beautiful seasonal fruit and veg to perfect pasta, meats, cheeses, cakes, kombucha and more from some of NSW's top producers. Head to Ted Mack Civic Park every first and third Saturday from 8am. The market's team is following all official health advice and ask customers to use tap'n'go cashless transactions, preorder with stallholders for quicker shopping and use the hand sanitiser provided throughout the market. Say hi to team northsider! Yep, we’re back at our popular meet the makers stall on the 20th June!
BRADFIELD BARK AND MEOW MARKET
Sunday 21 June from 10.30am bradfieldbark.com
The annual pooch extravaganza in Bradfield Park is taking place online this year! Hosted by Dr Katrina Warren, you can join in all the fun with video demonstrations, a virtual Mutt and Meow Market and lots of fun games and competitions to play with your pets. Got a question for the experts or want to enter your pooch in the best dressed or funniest video contests? Head to bradfieldbark.com or the Bradfield Bark 2020 event page on Facebook now to get involved. It's going to be grr-eat fun!
DRY JULY
After all those Zoom happy hours and iso-wines, Dry July is here to encourage us to take a break from the booze for a month all to raise funds for people affected by cancer. Head to dryjuly.com for more info and to sign up. So grab a mocktail and say cheers to that!
SUNDAY ROAST!
Nothing warms the cockles on a winter Sunday more than a hearty roast. Say hello to the newly opened Sailor Bar, on Sailors Bay Road in Northbridge, who are serving up a delicious roast lunch every week. Choose from Angus Beef Scotch Fillet and alternating chicken, lamb or pork. There's a veggie option and everything is accompanied with all the trimmings. The gin selection is also one of the best on the north shore! Bookings are essential - call 9958 1363.
KIRRIBILLI CENTRE - NOW OPEN!
Doors at the Kirribilli Centre are open again from the 15th June! From yoga and pilates classes, room hire, courses and workshops to community assistance, advice and information, the thriving local hub is adhering to all social distancing and health advice and the team is looking forward to welcoming everyone back through the doors. Head to thekirribillicentre.org for the latest info.
NORTH SYDNEY COMMUNITY CENTRE
The North Sydney Community Centre has taken learning online! Head to northsydneycentre.com.au to connect virtually to the huge range of courses which are now available. From sourdough bread baking to learning a new language or joining the isolation choir, there’s something for everyone's interests and budget.
NEW MENU AT FOYS
Harbourside dining at its best is back at Foys Kirribilli, with their new menu launching on 17 June. Head to foyskirribilli.com.au for info.
This July, book a table online to eat brekkie or lunch at Blues Point Road favourite, The North Spoon, and use the code northsider to receive your coffee order on the house! Alessandro, Gareth and the team have loved seeing locals for takeaways over the past few months and can’t wait to welcome everyone back as restrictions start to ease. Book a table at thenorthspoon.com
COLOURING-IN MINDFULNESS
FUN! PULL
OUT & KEEP!
Get the pencils out and unwind your mind with this calming colouring-in pattern.
A NEW STYLE
The restaurant marking a glorious turning point for North Sydney’s dining scene
It’s late afternoon at Glorietta. Long lunchers are lingering over coffees, colleagues with an early mark are having drinks and snacks before the evening crowd starts to filter through, filling out the 220 seat restaurant (as much as restrictions allow anyway). Nothing unusual about any of this. Except it’s a Wednesday. In North Sydney. Yep. North. Sydney.
Since Glorietta opened its towering glass doors back in December, something’s shifted in the 2060 dining scene and not just due to the effects of the C word.
Glorietta comprises all the best bits of great city restaurants without having to actually go to the city. And yes, that means they’re open in the evenings and on Saturdays, a schedule almost unheard of in these parts.
The Mount Street venue’s classy yet cosy fit-out and décor, created by Alexander & Co and shortlisted for the Restaurant and Bar Design Awards and the Australian Interior Design Award, is as tasteful as the modern Mediterranean menu. Head Chef Alberto Facci, previously Kitchen By Mike, and Head Pizza Chef, Mauro Grecco, formally Frankie’s Pizza, are both on the tools in the kitchen.
When northsider visited, the pared back takeaway menu was being fleshed out as restrictions lift. Pizzas are still the staple items with the Funghi - mushroom, thyme, gruyere, broccolini and chilli - and the Salsiccia - Italian sausage, braised leek, potato, chilli and mozzarella – the top toppings.
“Our dough has a four-day fermentation which results in a lighter style base that’s a
“THE SIMPLER THE DISH, MADE WITH QUALITY INGREDIENTS, THE BETTER THE FLAVOUR”
Antipasto, pizza, pasta, salads, tiramisu and more - Glorietta’s serving up modern Italian food that’s packed with flavour.
Local secret…
The takeaway bottles of house made chilli oil have garnered a cult following.
combination of pizza from Naples and Rome,” explains Glorietta’s owner, Aaron Crinis.
For the pasta, ribbons of fettuccine with meaty gems of spanner crab, fresh slivers of zucchini and a zing of chilli is the number one choice, followed by the Spicy Vodka pasta.
“I’m looking forward to bringing our seafood dishes back,” Crinis says. “Bowls of clams, fresh mussels, cuttlefish…The simpler the dish, made with the best quality ingredients, the better the flavour.”
Lockdown saw some speedy changes for Glorietta. “We’d spent 12 months planning and building before we opened,” Crinis says. “We were just starting to connect with the community and build momentum when COVID-19 happened. Everyone had worked so hard and the thought of losing it all…we had to react, we had to support our team.”
The pivot happened fast, starting with Glorietta At Home, offering house-made
Cheers!
“We’ve got five different Negronis on the menu, so I guess you could say we like Negronis!” Crinis says. “Our Negroni Mexicano is one of our most popular with Chilli and Cacao infused Tequila, Campari, Cocchi Di Torino, Creme de Cacao and Fernet Branca. It’s a play on a classic with a cheeky Mexican twist. This is closely followed by our Glorietta Sbagliato. Strawberry infused Aperol, Cinzano 1757 Rosso, Italicus Di Bergamotto, topped with sparkling rosé. A refreshing spin on a beautiful classic.”
pastas and sauces to be prepared at home, followed by the takeaway and delivery service.
“People want a third option now,” Crinis continues. “As well as visiting the restaurant and takeway food, they want to bring the venue home. And that goes for wine too.”
Glorietta’s impressive wine list, which includes skin contact or orange wines, Georgian wines and minimal intervention Italian wines, is presided over by Freddie Slater, previously sommelier for the Bentley Group. “We’ve definitely seen an increase in demand for more natural, bio-dynamic and adventurous wines,” Crinis says.
While the Glorietta At Home concept is set to continue, Crinis, Slater and the team are looking forward to having a full house again. “Friday lunches, afterwork drinks, aperitivo hour...just the buzz of the dining experience returning to the restaurant,” Crinis says. “We can’t wait to welcome our customers again.” l
‘I’ve
Hi northsiders ! I’m your ‘rover’ reporter, Ted the Puggle, and I’ve been sni ng out the best local pet stories for you. In this issue, I’ve chatted on the dog and bone to my mate Obi the Groodle, eight, from McMahons Point. You might know him from Instagram as @obi_about_town
been getting a lot of extra pats’
Ted: Hi Obi! Great to chat! Who are your nearest and dearest?
Obi: I live with my Mum and Dad and my human brother Angus. They give me unconditional love, walks and cuddles. Oh, and sometimes they give me cheese too! I’ve lived in McMahons Point since I was a puppy. Everyone is so nice and there’s heaps of great places to walk and run.
T: I’ve seen that you’ve been out and about supporting lots of local businesses. And you’ve enjoyed a few puppaccinos!
O: Piato is my local and I love Tony! I always get lots of pats and people give me treats and bacon. Bacon is my favourite. Recently, we’ve been taking a sandwich to the park which is great because I can assist with any leftovers. I like the Flying Bear in Milsons Park, Kirribilli too. The walk over is so fun.
About town!
From left: Me waiting for bacon at Piato, enjoying the views at Lavender Bay, loving a quick lie down harbourside and with my good mate, local legend and guide dog extraordinaire, King.
T: What did you miss most when things were closed?
O: I’ve really missed going to watch my brother play rugby for North Sydney Pirates and his school. It’s my favourite sport because they have BBQs....
T: What was it like having everyone at home recently? Every so often I wished they’d go out so I could sleep on their bed….
O: It’s been great having them around but I do miss a nice nap in the day. I’ve had to be on alert for couriers. Normally I ignore them.
T: Lots of people know you in the local area. What’s that like?
O: People often stop and want to pat me or take my photo. Recently I’ve been getting a lot of extra pats and cuddles from strangers which have been nice. Mum says I’m the local therapy dog.
Enjoying a cuppa I love a puppaccino and Piato on Blues Point Road never disappoints.
T: Where are your fave places for walkies?
O: I love walking from Lavender Bay to Kirribilli and if I’m quick, I manage a swim on the way home. Going to the Grumpy Baker in Waverton is fun, we buy some bread and I see my friend Ash sometimes too. Sawmillers is my absolute fave, although Mum always says not to tell anyone as it’s our secret.
T: Where are the best places to stop for pats?
O: Everywhere! I especially love Blues Point Road. Rapture Living is a great place for pats and they sometimes have treats too!
T: I ran into Thelma and Louise café in Neutral Bay once and made a dash for the lovely bacon I could smell! What’s the naughtiest thing you’ve done?
O: I love getting involved in a picnic especially if there’s roast chicken. I can never seem to hear Mum calling me. But the naughtiest thing I’ve ever done was jumping on a bride having her photo taken at Lavender Bay. Luckily my paws were clean and she loved dogs, so I was in her wedding photos!
T: Thanks for the chat Obi! Grrreat to meet you. ●
Animal MATTERS
with Pet Medical Milsons Point’s Dr Cate Plummer BVSC, BSc (Vet) (Hons) I believe strongly that we gain so much benefit from a close bond with our animal partners, and caring veterinary support is an integral part of this.
FACTS ABOUT COVID-19 AND YOUR PET
The last few months have presented many challenges for all of us, and in some cases an overload of information. The following is endorsed by the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) and gives an accurate picture of the current understanding of the risks associated with COVID-19 and pets.
Can COVID-19 infect pets?
Worldwide, there are only a few reports of cats and dogs testing positive to COVID-19. These incidents have only occurred in animals which have been in close contact with an infected owner. There are no reported cases in domestic animals or wildlife in Australia. There’s no current evidence pets have been involved in spreading COVID-19 to humans. The main risk of COVID-19 spread is human-to-human transmission.
When out exercising with your pet, please remember to follow social distancing protocols and maintain good hygiene at all times.
If you have COVID-19 or are in self-isolation, it is recommended you:
➜ Avoid close contact, such as cuddling, kissing and sharing a bed with your pet.
➜ If possible, ask another family member in the house to care for your pet.
➜ Wash your hands before and after being around animals, their food and water bowls. Finally, thank you to all the wonderful pet owners who have worked with their veterinarians to maintain social distancing and adhere to the guidelines for remote consultations. This has allowed your veterinarian to continue to provide the specialist care required for all our furry friends. ●
PUZZLES with Quizmaster
The Village Quiz
1. Which is more easterly, Kirribilli House or Admiralty House?
2. How many ships were in the First Fleet?
3. Which club is the oldest? The Mosman Rowers Club, the Sydney Flying Squadron Skiff Club or the Neutral Bay Club?
4. What is the bird emblem of New South Wales?
5. Which city’s Luna Park is oldestSydney or Melbourne?
6. What is the largest island in Sydney Harbour?
7. In what year was the City to Surf first run?
8 Which North Sydney hotel is the clubhouse for the North Sydney Rugby Union team?
Clay
SUDOKU Slot the numbers 1 to 9 into every horizontal line, vertical row and 3 x 3 square.
Made with l’amore by Giuseppe!
Our popular Waverton butcher serves up a slice of Italy
Ciao a tutti!
Originally from Calabria, south west Italy, Giuseppe Tirinato descends from three generations of butchers. Giuseppe’s Gourmet Meats is open seven days.
What could warm our hearts (or should that be our stomachs!) more this Winter than a beautiful plate of delicious Paccheri pasta with a little added Calabrese kick!
Buon appetito!
Giuseppe
Paccheri Funghi e Salsiccia
COOKING TIME: 25 MINUTES SERVES 4
INGREDIENTS
500g Delverde Paccheri pasta
250g pork and fennel sausage mince
250g spicy Calabrese sausage mince
250g champignons mushrooms
Splash of white wine
500lm Mutti Passata
Extra virgin olive oil
Grated Parmigiano
METHOD
• Heat a splash of extra virgin olive oil in a frypan. Brown both minces and then add a splash of white wine. Cook for a few minutes and then add the mushrooms.
• Boil water in a saucepan and add Paccheri and a pinch of salt, cooking for 12 minutes as per instructions.
• Add passata to sausage mix and simmer on low heat until pasta is cooked.
• Drain pasta and add to frypan mix, stirring well.
• Plate and serve with grated Parmigiano. Delizioso!
■ Custom-made antipasto platters
■ Free-range beef and Tasmanian lamb
■ Fresh Italian bread delivered daily
■ Cooked crackling porchetta Saturdays
■ Ready-to-go options like lasagna, meatballs, spinach and ricotta cannelloni... and all things Italian!
Opening hours Mon - Fri: 8.00am – 7.00pm Sat: 8:00am – 4:30pm Sun: 8:00am – 1:30pm 94A Bay Road Waverton Phone 9922 4087
Moments in time
A cinema first opened in Crows Nest in 1913. Situated at 360 Pacific Highway, films were shown there until 1983 when the building was demolished. This image is from 1953 when the cinema was called the Sesqui Theatre.
A tale of two NORTH SYDNEYS
Did you know there’s another North Sydney, over 17,000kms away on the east coast of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia, Canada? northsider got in touch with two locals to nd out what life’s like in our twin town…
“There’s always a connection to someone”
Melissa Ingliss is a marketing professional for a local corporation in a First Nations Community called Membertou First Nations.
Iwas born and raised in North Sydney and apart from moving away for university, I’ve always lived in the community. My husband Mark and I live in a Cape Cod-style home located on a street with only six other houses. It’s on top of a hill that overlooks the beautiful North Sydney harbour and is surrounded by a large field. We can see and hear the Marine Atlantic ferry, which is one of the only ways to get to Newfoundland, from our bedroom windows. In Summer, we can also see fishing and sail boats. We’re a three minute drive from my parents, who share a home with my maternal grandparents, and a ten minute drive from my in-laws.
We’ve all heard of seven degrees of separation, but in North Sydney it’s rarely more than two! There’s always a connection to someone. Everyone gives back to those who need it most and you find joy in the simple things - the bite of a sandwich from your favourite deli, watching lobster boats setting traps on the harbour and spending time with family and friends. North Sydney is where I feel most at peace and where I call “home.” ●
Melissa and her Maltese-Shihtzu pup, Maisie, keeping warm!
SYDNEYS
WEATHER
From -20°C, 100km winds and 30cm snow days, to 30°C sunny days, all depending on the time of year. Our Spring is cool and rejuvenating, watching flowers bloom and trees come back to life, and then in an instant, we have sweltering days perfect for the beach. Fall is crisp and beautiful with rolling hills of orange, yellow, red and brown cascading around our small town.
ALL AT SEA
Fishing is a big part of people’s livelihoods and you can buy fresh lobster right off the dock.
HARBOUR LIFE
We have plenty of ice in our harbour from November to April and sometimes even May. Locals call the large chunks ‘Ice Clampers’ and our ancestors would jump from clamper to clamper before it was deemed too unsafe! In the 1950s through to the 1960s, people would walk across the harbour when it was frozen solid.
Today’s harbour is littered with lobster fishing vessels in Spring and sailing boats from late Spring until early Fall. The most recognisable vessel in our harbour is the Marine Atlantic ferry.
The Marine Atlantic ferry on Sydney Harbour
Melissa and her husband, Mark
Beautiful harbour walk, below, and Melissa’s home, right
Melissa has lived in North Sydney her whole life.
“I will forever call it home”
Rahim Jetha works in hospitality and tourism.
Iwas born and raised in Toronto, Ontario.
I went on vacation and met a couple from Cape Breton who invited me to visit. I immediately fell in love with this beautiful island and a few years later, I made the decision to move here. It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. I live in a beautiful three-bedroom, two-bathroom home that backs out on to the beach. The back yard has a gorgeous ocean view.
I’ve travelled a lot but North Sydney, and Nova Scotia as a whole, are among the friendliest places I’ve ever been. The people are genuine and kind. Everyone is welcomed with open arms and like long-time friends or family. It’s very rare to pass anyone without being given a wave, a smile or a friendly hello. In North Sydney, I’ve found a beauty and peace that cannot be matched. I love it and will forever call it home. l
MY IDEAL SATURDAY
On a beautiful Saturday, I’ll get a van load of friends and family and anyone else who wants to join. We’ll start the day, same as every Canadian, with a stop to Tim Hortons (a coffee shop).
Then we’ll head up the Cabot Trail. I’ll have a cooler or two packed with goodies and drinks to eat and sip along the way. We’ll stop at all the lighthouses, beaches and lookouts. Maybe we’ll haul out the fishing rods and try our hand at catching an afternoon feed. I’ll probably end the day at a local pub or restaurant with live entertainment or even a karaoke night. A “kitchen party” at one of the van members’ homes would tie up the evening.
>> Clockwise from left, a historic picture of Rahim’s house from 1918, ice in the harbour, Rahim with a haul of local lobster, views of North Sydney
INCLUSIVE ISLAND
The island is very inclusive and most signs are written in English and Gaelic as well as some in Mi’kmaq, as a large population of the island are Indigenous.
ON THE BEACH
Indian Beach is located right beside the Newfoundland ferry. You can enjoy live music there every night in Summer and throughout the day people enjoy walking along the sand, sunbathing and searching for sea glass and seashells.
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Cape Breton is well known for the Cabot Trail, a beautiful landscape drive with many attractions including waterfalls, ocean view lookouts, parks and the Skyline Trail hiking route. It’s not uncommon to spot moose, foxes and other animals. In Sydney, 21kms away, you’ll find the 70ft Big Fiddle at the harbourfront, which is a tribute to the area’s traditional fiddle music, as well as a lighthouse trail, boat trips to Bird Island to see the puffins and whale watching tours.
WEBSITE: www.anchorrestaurant.com.au
BOOKINGS: 9922 2996
ADDRESS: 4/118 Alfred Street South, Milsons Point - North SYDNEY 2061
Join us for authentic Italian
TOWN
North Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada
Population: 5699
Incorporated in 1885
Median price for a house: $116,950 CAD
Landmarks: Indian Beach, the North Sydney Historical Society, Cabot Trail
Notable residents: Oscar winning actor, Harold Russel, Nobel Prize winning astrophysicist, Arthur B. McDonald
North Sydney, Australia
Population: 7705
Incorporated in 1890
Median price for a house: $2,126,620 AUD
Landmarks: Sydney Harbour Bridge, Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden
Notable residents: Poet and author, Henry Lawson, Oscar winning actress, Nicole Kidman
For more pics and interesting facts, head to northsider.com.au
Recommended on
dine. OPEN 7 DAYS 5:00pm - 11:30pm
Remotely learning
northsider Marni Little is mumma to Archie, ve, and Charlie, one, wife to Dave and an award winning comedy writer
Okay so if you’d asked me what Autumn was gonna look like when I wrote my last column, I definitely wouldn’t have guessed banana bread would be making such a comeback. Or that TikTok would be used by people over 25, that Keep Cups would disappear in favour of takeaway cups again and that farmers markets would sadly cease to exist.
So far, restrictions have taken us into our homes and back 20 years. But the most shocking thing of all in this new-age/old-age world? Remote learning. One fateful day in March (ha ha, remember March?!) Gladys made the announcement that would rattle every parent to the core and create a nation of over-stressed, chocolate-eating, Netflixbinging adults being reigned over by their tiny school-aged dictators. We all nodded in sympathy when a friend lost their SeeSaw login or used their kid’s Microsoft teams account for a business meeting or at anyone with more than two children who simply shut up shop and pretended it was the Christmas holidays all over again.
Moving forward, as restrictions end and school goes back, let’s remember the lessons
we learnt while our kids were learning their lessons…or not...
1: Teachers need more money. 2: I before E except after C and like 20 other times that don’t make sense. 3: Even if 2020 part II is an educational write-off, the kids are going to be okay. ●
“I DEFINITELY WOULDN’T HAVE GUESSED BANANA BREAD WOULD BE MAKING SUCH A COMEBACK”
For more lols, #mumlife and everything in-between, folllow Marni on Instagram @marnilittle
Charlie and me taking a break from the joy of jigsaws
@northsidersydney
We love seeing your pics of the local area. Here’s some of the breathtaking images we’ve been tagged in on Instagram.
The miller & green team are proud to offer an organic approach to your hair colour with world renowned low-tox dyes created by DNA Luxury Organics. Beautiful hair...naturally at miller & green
Complimentary consultations and $20 OFF for new guests! Simply mention this ad when booking.
Want to be in our bumper Spring issue?
