This time last year we didn’t know if little old northsider was still going to be ‘a thing’. While the past 12 months have been like no other, the one thing that’s remained constant is the support we’ve received from our amazing North Sydney community! We’re so so grateful to everyone who reads the magazine, comes to say hi at the markets and gives us a follow and a like on social media. As a local two-woman team that’s 100% independent, we can’t thank you all enough. Stay warm and we’ll see you in Spring!
Anna Gordon EDITOR
hello@northsider.com.au
ART DIRECTOR: Belinda Spillane
On the
Greg Florimo at Norths, Cammeray
LOCAL LEGEND
Stepping out on to North Sydney Oval to run on for The Mighty Bears, 18-year-old Greg Florimo soaked up the moment he’d been working towards since the age of seven.
“As a young kid I was so impressed, coming to the ground and seeing it all in real life,” Greg remembers. “Seeing the size of these men, the responsibility they carried for their club, the way they represented North Sydney…straightaway, I felt that local pride.
“It was my dream, putting on the red and black and representing my club…my area,” he continues. “I’d been working so hard with that goal in mind, it was a real honour to finally get there.”
That same match earned Greg the nickname that’s stuck with him throughout his distinguished sporting career.
“I’d fallen off my skateboard the day before,” Greg remembers. “I had to get stitches in my head, so I wore headgear on match day, which I’d never done before.
“I had a fairly decent debut game and the press wanted to know about the headgear and as soon as the reporters heard why I was wearing it, they started calling me The Skateboard Kid,” he laughs. “The next day it was all over the news and it’s sort of stuck.
People still talk to me about it now, “You still got your skateboard Flo?””
This year marks the 35th anniversary of Greg’s NRL debut. During his 13 years on the field with his beloved North Sydney Bears, The Skateboard Kid became their most capped player-to-date with 285 games, firmly embedding Greg into the rich history of one of Australia’s most respected sporting institutions.
Established in 1908, North Sydney’s team was one of the country’s founding rugby league clubs. They began playing at North Sydney Oval in 1910 and 2021 marks the centenary of their first Premiership win in 1921. The team became known as The Bears in 1950s, following a sponsorship deal with Big Bear shopping centre in Neutral Bay, and Sunday afternoons would see the oval flooded with up to 15,000 supporters, all proudly decked out in red and black.
“Just recently we had a few thousand people in the crowd and it reminded me of the days in the ‘90s on a sunny Winter Sunday afternoon when you couldn’t fit another person in the oval...when there were queues outside the gates,” Greg, who’s also known locally as Flo, recalls.
“Everyone would be in a great mood and as we’d run on to the ground, we’d have the
ball
northsider meets North Sydney rugby league star and community champion, Greg Florimo
Community focus
Greg presents the Gidget Foundation, a local charity supporting the emotional wellbeing of expectant and new parents, with funding through the norths collective ClubGRANTS. Far right, Greg thanks supporters after a match at North Sydney Oval in the ‘90s.
band punching out, and we were just in impeccable form. We knew we were going to win. On those days, it was just magic.”
The ‘00s were a less magical era for The Bears. After being delisted by the NRL, a merger with Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles saw them become the Northern Eagles in 2000. The next two years were a trying time.
“My last season was in ’98 and I went to play in the UK,” Greg says. “I watched the Northern Eagles’ first game on TV and seeing them run out with predominantly Manly colours, except for a bit of red and black on the top of their socks…that was tough times…”
The unpopular union was dissolved in 2003, with The Bears returning home to the oval and the second tier NSW Cup competition.
Almost two decades on, and while Greg is now retired as a player, the local legend is helping to tackle what’s next for The Bears in his role as the team Wellbeing, Education and Community Manager.
“It’s a club with so much tradition, history and presence,” Greg says. “Number one is to make sure rugby league is good in this area. That it’s good for the kids, so they get a chance to play. That it’s good for the fans, so they have a chance to watch. That the
game is healthy, the club is healthy. And I think we’re doing that at the moment.”
“My role gives me a lot of satisfaction because I’m dealing with people, and understanding and helping and supporting people, whereas before it was, “Here’s your contract, here’s your training T-shirt, see you at training on Tuesday,” he continues.
“Now I’m getting a life story, I’m understanding what these people are doing on and off the field, trying to help them to live a complete life, to find interest outside of rugby league, to have a fall back plan if rugby league doesn’t happen, to make sure that there is a career in place.”
Greg’s particularly impressed with the junior league and how the game is taking on a new lease of life with female players.
“The numbers are up in the junior league and there’s an emergence of young girls not just playing tag footy, but playing tackle footy,” Greg says. “There was a time you couldn’t because of age restrictions, but now that’s what they want to be. They want to be a footy player.”
“The women amaze me,” he continues. “Sometimes the old man’s sitting on the sideline with the baby, and I’ve seen them
“I THINK IT’S AN UNDERLYING FIRE THAT HAS BEEN THERE FOR SO LONG, AND IT’S JUST GOING TO TAKE A LITTLE SPARK TO FLAME IT UP AGAIN”
have to run off five minutes before kickoff and feed the baby, then run out and play.”
Greg’s work with the Norths club in Cammeray, home of The Bears for over 50 years, and the norths collective group which includes The Alcott in Lane Cove and The Greens, is also integral to community engagement. He’s involved in ClubGRANTS, which see the norths collective help fund a selection of local groups and services. He works closely with local organisations to support a range of people and causes, from charities such as the Gidget Foundation, Mary’s House and Phoenix House, to nearby schools and community groups.
“League is a great icebreaker,” Greg says. “I can turn up to an event representing the club, and it makes it easy to break down boundaries. It’s all about connecting people, young and old, and bringing them together.”
Over the past 20 years there’s been much talk of a return to the NRL for The Bears.
Today, those conversations continue and it feels like they’re catching the attention
of the wider North Sydney community, which is looking to support local more than ever.
“Hopefully the NRL can see the value in what we bring,” Greg says. “And what we bring is not only a rugby league heartland with over 220,000 fans, but also a strong commercial business district.
“There’s almost a million people without a team. And then when you consider North Sydney Oval and the history and the strength of that…
“I think it’s an underlying fire that’s been there for so long, and it’s just going to take a little spark to flame it up again,” Greg continues. “It has been blown out a few times over the years, so I try not to put too much focus on it.
“People were touched by The Bears and what we did, they still are…that in itself is really rewarding. And it’s why you do it. So I encourage everyone to come to a game, visit the oval, become a member of the club, be part of it all and enjoy the fun. That’s what it’s all about at the end of the day.” l
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Cotton ‘northsider’ Tote Bag, $12.99, email orders@northsider.com.au for order details and more info
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paradise PRESERVING
The eco-friendly kayakers making a big splash in Lavender Bay
Head down to Lavender Bay on any day of the week and you’re sure to spot a fleet of brightly coloured kayaks. Either lined up on the beach or bobbing on the harbour in the distance, the Sydney by Kayak paddlers have called the beautiful bay their home for eight years.
“I love it when people who’ve lived in Sydney for years come down for a kayaking session and say they’ve never been to Lavender Bay before,” Sydney by Kayak owner and McMahons Point local Laura Stone tells northsider. “And I just say “Welcome to paradise!”
It’s a paradise that Laura, her husband Ben and the Sydney by Kayak crew are committed to protecting.
“When we started taking kayaking tours out on the harbour, Ben and I would pick up rubbish along the way,” Laura remembers. “We started bringing buckets with us for the litter and soon our regular paddlers asked if
SHOCKINGLY, THE PADDLERS
COLLECTED 250KGS OF RUBBISH IN JUST ONE MONTH
they could bring buckets and help collect rubbish from the water too.”
Laura could see the interest people had in doing their bit to keep the harbour cleaner and Sydney by Kayak’s dedicated Clean Up Tours were born. The hour long sessions include a fun paddle and litter pick.
“We just ran it once a week to start with but very quickly we were inundated with enquiries,” Laura remembers. Now their eco tours run almost every day of the week.
Shockingly, in just one month last year, the paddlers collected 250kgs of rubbish.
From kids’ scooters to golfing trophies, shoes, hats and everything in-between, you name it, Laura’s seen it thrown away.
“I’d say probably the most common items are the cellophane wrappers that cigarette boxes come covered in,” Laura says. “I didn’t realise there were still so many smokers!
Sunrise paddlers head towards the bridge
What’s a Seabin?
A Seabin is a rubbish bin for the ocean, often installed in marinas. A submersible pump at the bottom of the unit draws in water. The water is passed through a filter which catches rubbish, oil and fuel and pushes filtered water back out.
What are Living Seawalls?
“The other day we collected 6.5kgs of litter, which doesn’t sound like much, but when you consider that it was all things like cellophane and tiny pieces of plastic, it’s actually a huge amount.”
As well as helping to rid Sydney Harbour of rubbish, participating in a Clean Up Tour also raises money for conservation work.
“Since the start of the pandemic in March last year, we’ve raised $16,500,” Laura says.
Around half of that has gone towards buying a state-of-the-art Seabin for Lavender Bay, with the remaining amount being used as a foundation for further funds to add to The Living Sea Wall Project.
“When we run our Clean Up Tours, one of the main focuses is picking up rubbish but the other focus is educating people,” Laura continues. “We talk about the Seabin and how much rubbish it collects, what kind of
Habitat tiles have been fixed to North Sydney’s harbour walls. These tiles are designed to help make seawalls more ecologically sustainable by creating a more natural environment for marine life. They’ve been installed at Sawmillers Reserve and Bradfield Park to encourage sealife.
things we’re finding in the harbour and we also share information about local conservation projects.”
The Sydney by Kayak team’s efforts have seen them receive Silver in the eco tourism category at the 2019 New South Wales Tourism Awards. They’ve also received Better Business Partnership recognition for their sustainability work with North Sydney Council.
With plans for ‘doggy’ paddles with pooches on board to raise money for local animal rescues as well their regular sunrise tours, private sessions and fitness paddles filling up, Winter is no time for slowing down, despite Laura and Ben welcoming new baby, Isla, a little sister to Levi, four, to their family.
“The sunrises in Winter can be absolutely amazing,” Laura says. “I love the light and the crispness in the air. It’s a great time of year to get out on our beautiful harbour.” ●
Sydney by Kayak’s Ben, Levi and Laura
A Clean Up Tour collecting rubbish
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WAll about vaccines
northsider asks the experts
e put some of the most frequently asked questions about vaccines to Dr Justine Morris and Dr David Cosgriff, GPs at Osana Cremorne.
Q: How do vaccines actually work?
A: Vaccines are a safe way to produce an immune response without causing illness. Rather than treating a disease after it occurs, vaccines prevent us from getting sick in the first place. They work with our body’s natural defences to build protection and reduce the risk of getting a disease. Traditional vaccines contain either killed or weakened versions of the virus that causes the disease, or a small part of it, such as a protein or nucleic acid. This is an antigen. Newer vaccines contain the blueprint for producing antigens instead of the antigen itself.
Your immune system recognises a vaccine as foreign and responds by creating memory cells and antibodies that protect you against future infection. So if you’re exposed to the virus in the future, your immune system can quickly destroy it before you become unwell.
Our immune systems are designed to remember so once exposed to one or more doses of a vaccine, we typically remain protected against a disease for years, decades or even a lifetime.
Q: How long do vaccines last and why do some need a booster?
A: The duration of immunity varies with different vaccines. Lifelong immunity is not always provided by either natural infection (getting the disease) or vaccination. The recommended timing of vaccine doses aims to achieve the best immune protection to cover the period in life when vulnerability to the disease is highest. Many vaccines
Dr Justine Morris and Dr David Cosgriff
used today are relatively new and data concerning the length of time they give protection is continually being updated. Some require multiple doses, given weeks or months apart. This can be needed to allow the production of long-lived antibodies and development of memory cells. In this way, the body is trained to fight the specific disease-causing organism, building up memory of the pathogen so as to rapidly fight it if and when exposed in the future.
Most Covid-19 vaccines require two doses. Whether additional booster doses are needed is being determined by ongoing trials.
Q: How do I get a vaccine for Covid-19?
A: The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI) has advised on prioritisation for the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccination. This advice is consistent with guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO). We’re currently vaccinating people in Phases 1a, 1b and 2a, including all adults 50+. On the advice of ATAGI, the Pfizer vaccine will be prioritised for people under 50. The Pfizer vaccine requires ultra-freezing and is available through large hospitals and mass vaccination centres, the first of which recently opened at Sydney Olympic Park. Bookings are available via the Government online Vaccine Eligibility Checker. Adults 40-49 are invited to register interest in the Pfizer vaccine through NSW Health and will be contacted when a booking is available. The AstraZeneca vaccine is prioritised for those 50+. It’s available through GPs, including Osana clinics, and also some respiratory clinics.
Q: What about blood clots?
A: Rare clotting has been reported (1 in 40,000 in under 50 years and 1 in 200,000 in over 50 years) relating to the AstraZeneca vaccine. These figures show that vaccine related clotting is less common than clotting from Covid-19 itself, taking The Pill for a year or flying on a plane to London. ●
Which Covid-19 vaccines are currently available here?
■ Pfizer-BioNTech is an mRNA vaccine that uses a genetic code called RNA to spark the production of the coronavirus’ spike protein. Once the mRNA enters the body’s cells, they use the instructions contained in the RNA to make the spike protein. Immune cells recognise the spike protein as foreign and begin building an immune response. The RNA from the vaccine doesn’t change or interact with our DNA. It’s 95% effective against symptoms and 90% effective in reducing transmission. Two doses, 21 days apart. Side effects include sore arm (68%), fatigue (29%), headache (26%), muscle pain (17%) and fever/chills (7%).
■ AstraZeneca-Oxford is an adenovirus DNA protein-based vaccine. Proteinbased vaccines use a non-infectious component of the coronavirus, usually the spike protein. Immune cells recognise this as foreign and begin building an immune response. It’s 82% effective against symptoms and 100% effective against severe disease. Two doses, 12 weeks apart. Side effects include sore arm (64%), fatigue (53%), headache (53%), muscle aches (44%), fever/chills (32%), and joint pain (26%). Two vaccines available later this year are:
■ Novavax is a spike protein vaccine that is 89% effective, administered in two doses, 21 days apart with similar side effects to the vaccines above.
■ Moderna is an mRNA vaccine and consists of two doses four weeks apart. It’s considered 90% effective with similar side effects to Pfizer-BioNTech.
A LOCAL HISTORY
Dreaming of warmer days swimming at Maccallum Pool, seen here in 1929. Right, Cremorne Point over Mosman Bay c.1925
Moments in time
Cremorne Point and Mosman Bay are both Cammeraygal territory and were named Wul-warra-Jeung before European settlement in Sydney Cove. In 1853, James Milson Jnr purchased Cremorne peninsula with a view to building residential blocks. The courts refused his proposal to build to the harbour’s edge, which is why Cremorne is one of Sydney’s only harbourside peninsulas with a public park
that extends to the waterfront.
In 1856, Milson rented nine hectares of the land to be used as pleasure gardens.
Attractions included archery, quoits, rifle shooting, skittles, gymnastics and a carousel.
In 1905, the area was designated public land with North Sydney Council as trustee. ●
Images courtesy of Stanton Library Historical Services
View to Cremorne Wharf and Cremorne Point, c.1920s
JUNE
FOYS KIRRIBILLI
MOULES FRITES
WEDNESDAYS
HARD ROCK HEROES EVERY THURSDAY
Hop on the ferry from McMahons Point and head to the Hard Rock Cafe in Darling Harbour to celebrate live music with their house band, led by Baby Animals' Dario Bortolin. Free entry every Thursday from 7pm. Bookings are essential! hardrockcafe.com/location/sydney/ 11
6
STYLING WITH VIVIENNE
Warm the cockles by tucking into a bowl of plump mussels accompanied by bottomless fries (yep, bottomless fries!!) and a crisp glass of wine for $29 every Wednesday from 5pm until sold out! foyskirribilli.com.au as
The second of a series of three classes with Vivienne Cable from Image By Design aims to reveal more about your personal style northsydneycentre.com.au for more info. 5
FROM 11 JUNE
THE WOMAN IN BLACK
The intimate setting of the Ensemble theatre is the perfect venue to experience the classic spine-tingling story of The Woman in Black. You can also redeem your Discover vouchers against your ticket price at the theatre, simply ask for more info when you book at the box office. ensemble.com.au
OLD BEARS AND LIFE MEMBERS DAY AT NORTH SYDNEY OVAL
A festival of family, food and footy! Two big games of rugby league and a touch footy game featuring '90s Bears Legends vs Manly Legends!
MEET THE NORTHSIDER
TEAM
Come and say hi to the team behind your fave local magazine! Belinda and Anna will be at the markets with 50 northsider tote bags to give away! First come, best dressed!
THE BOTANIST KIRRIBILLI SUNDAY ROASTS
Discover what the new season is serving up! thebotanist.com.au
13TH KIRRIBILLI MARKETS
The popular art, design and fashion market rerturns to Kirribilli from 8.30am-3pm.
As well as an electric day of sport, there's food stalls, craft beers and an NRL League Stars activation as well as a jumping castle and face painters for the kids. Gates open at 11am.
17TH COMEDY CLUB AT THE ALCOTT Featuring laughs from three top comedians from 8pm, $20. Go to thealcott.com.au for more info.
25TH EMOTION COACHING FOR PARENTS A five-step method for building emotional intelligence in children of all ages. 10am-12pm, $30. Head to northsydneycentre.com.au for more information.
JULY
LUNA PARK REOPENING!
Nine brand new rides have been added to the iconic harbourside theme park. Gates reopen late June just in time for school holidays. Head to lunaparksydney.com
Celebrate Indigenous culture and custodianship at the North Sydney Community Centre during NAIDOC Week 2021 with $5 workshops about bush tucker and traditional weaving. Go to 10
MUMS AND
BUBS COFFEE & CAKE
Head to The Greens between 9am-12pm on weekdays for the Mums and Bubs $10 Coffee and Cake deal. The child-friendly venue has plenty of space for prams and is a great spot to meet for a relaxed morning tea. thegreensnorthsydney.com.au
GAI-MARIAGAL FESTIVAL WORKSHOP DAY
LEARN THE ART OF
PRINTMAKING
In this nine week course you'll discover the various tools, techniques and possibilities available using printing as the basis of your image making. Bookings are essential. Head to northsydneycentre.com.au for more info.
THURS & FRI 3PM-LATE TAPAS AND VINO NIGHTS AT CHARLIE AND FRANKS ST
LEONARDS End the week right by tucking into delicious dishes such as kingfish crudo, Korean chicken bites, fish tacos and prawn rolls. Cocktails include burnt orange bellinis and spiced vanilla mojitos. YUM! charlieandfranks.com.au
- KIRRIBILLI KNITTING GROUP
Get creative every Friday at the Kirribilli Centre. Projects at this free group include yarn-bombing and knitting for charity. 16-18 Fitzroy Street, Kirribilli.
LISTENING CLUB
Stop in to North Sydney's most beautiful restaurant every Thursday from 6pm for aperitivos and alfresco tunes. Expect DJs on the decks, drinks specials and delicious snacks! 100 Mount Street, Mon-Sat lunch til late. glorietta.com.au
PAINT AND SIP IN ST LEONARDS!
Set your creativity free at these fun BYO painting sessions in St Leonards. Savour a wine and play with paint at the Albany Street studio in a class filled with like-minded artists of all levels. A great way to spend an afternoon with friends or head out solo to meet new people. Head to corkandchroma.com.au for class timetables and to book.
WHAT’S ON
AUGUST
TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE BLUES POINT HOTEL
Head to the Bluey and get quizzical at the popular trivia night with $15 schnitty to keep those brain cells buzzing! Bookings essential
28
FLEETWOOD MAC RUNNING IN THE SHADOWS AT NORTHS CAMMERAY
Renowned as Australia’s number one tribute to the iconic Fleetwood Mac, Running in the Shadows explore the band's extensive back catalogue, covering all the classic ballads, blues and rock songs from their five decade plus career. Doors open at 7.45pm and tickets are $25. Head to norths.com.au to book.
29TH COAL LOADER ARTISANS MARKET
Head to Waverton from 9am-3pm for these quarterly markets that showcase local creative talent.
21
BEHIND THE SCENES MARKET TOUR
Join local chef and food advocate Tawnya Bahr for a free tour behind the scenes of the Northside Produce Market. Meet the producers, listen to their stories and be inspired. By the end of the tour, you're sure to walk away with a true appreciation of seasonal produce and a few ideas on what to put on your shopping list! Bookings are essential northsydneycentre.com.au
7
BUSHCARE AT NORTHSIDE PRODUCE MARKET
The North Sydney Bushcare team are giving away FREE native seedlings at the market until they run out! Ted Mack Civic Park, 200 Miller Street, North Sydney, 8am-12pm.
KIRRIBILLI GENERAL AND FASHION MARKETS
This vibrant market is packed with stylish stalls and artisan-made products. From 8.30am-3pm, Burton Street Tunnel, Milsons Point. 28
F45 KICKSTART MEMBERSHIPS READER OFFER! MENTION 'NORTHSIDER' FOR 50% OFF
F45 North Sydney have got a LIMITED number of 28 day kick start memberships with 50% off for northsider readers! Give us a mention when contacting them northsydney@ f45training.com.au
20TH AKMAL AT NORTHS!
Akmal returns to Norths Cammeray with an hour of hilarious, unfiltered stand-up comedy. No topic is left untouched as Akmal spins comedy gold from his hilarious and unique view of the world. Head to norths.com.au to book. Tickets $45.
Get social!
and #mynorthsider when you’re out and about in the neighbourhood. We love seeing your photos! Follow us on @northsidersydney
OPEN 8.30AM - 3.00PM
EAT DRINK&
northsider’s round up of local foodie goodness
Squeeze the day with this beetroot, carrot, lemon and ginger juice from BTB Kirribilli
2 Ennis Road, Milsons Point
Oishi-Billi’s James Lee, left, and chef Simon Cai, are on a mission to make takeaway food better with dishes like their Sashimi Garden Fresh Japanese Salad, right, a melody of vegies, fresh fish, miso dressing, spicy mayo and a teriyaki glaze.
A fresh APPROACH
northsider discovers a new take on Japanese cuisine in Milsons Point…
Agastronomic revolution is happening on Alfred Street South. The team at bustling Japanese eatery, Oishi-Billi, are on a mission to create the very best takeaway dishes you’ll ever eat.
“We want to make takeway food better and bring the restaurant experience to delivery,” Oishi-Billi’s James Lee tells northsider
Having spent his career in high-end hospitality, including a stint as GM at dining institution Saké, James has teamed up with
“WE WANT TO BRING THE RESTAURANT
EXPERIENCE
TO
TAKEAWAY FOOD”
former colleague and passionate chef Simon Cai, along with superstar foodie Amy Chow, to serve Japanese delights including expertlycrafted sushi, deftly-sliced sashimi, rich slowed-cooked curries, truffle oil laced edamame and a one-of-a-kind miso soup packed with nuggets of seafood. There’s clever vegie and vegan options too, combining flavours and textures to create plant-powered dishes with a delicious Japanese twist. While there’s a handful of tables in the mural-adorned venue for dine-in, dishes have been created to enjoy at home or as a picnic, perhaps in Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden, the harbourside spot that cemented James and Simon’s decision to locate their eatery in Milsons Point.
“It’s just so beautiful!” James says. “And the warmth of the locals is very special too. Everyone is so supportive, recommending us and bringing their friends in. We love it when they tell us that our food brings back memories from trips overseas, that our dishes remind them of Tokyo.”
“Covid has made all of us reset how we live as part of our community and I think it’s made us all think more about food as well,” James continues. “That’s why we don’t want to be a restaurant that tells people what to eat. We want to give people what they want to eat and that’s why we love feedback and input on our menus. It makes everything fun!”
“I love making food for people to enjoy,” Simon enthuses. “We’re always learning from
our customers and how they like to eat. All the feedback from the locals makes the food even better!”
The team have a focus on sourcing the best quality fresh ingredients. And from the jewel of freshly grated wasabi on the side of the plate to the house-blended soy sauce, homemade yoghurt and freshly fermented seasonal pickles, it’s clear everything about Oishi (which means delicious in Japanese) Billi has been created and served with a generous helping of love.
“This is your shop, we make food for you,” James concludes. “We’re having a lot of fun and can’t wait to keep delivering just what locals want.” ● Oishi Billi, 1/102 Alfred Street South, Milsons Point
Clockwise from above:
The Intimate Sushi and Sashimi Set that comes with miso soup and edamame, Oishi-Billi California Rolls with Crab and Salmon and Roast Pumpkin Bao Buns.
Winter warmer!
This nutrient packed super soup is the perfect dish for cooler weather
COCONUT PUMPKIN SOUP
• 2 cups Raw C Coconut Water
• 1 pumpkin, halved and seeded
• 1/2 tsp each of chilli powder, ground ginger and nutmeg
• 1 Tbsp yellow curry powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
Preheat oven to 180°C. Place pumpkin halves on a baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven for around 40 minutes, or until pumpkin is easily pierced with a fork. Scoop the pumpkin flesh into a saucepan. Add in Raw C Coconut Water, spices, salt and pepper. Blend until smooth using a stick blender. Simmer soup over a low heat, stirring for around five mins or until heated through. Add a little more coconut water to achieve your preferred consistency and vary the amount of spices and seasoning to find your favourite flavour combination. Serve topped with croutons, a sprinkle of chilli flakes and some toasted pepitas.
Introducing Raw C’s fresh new look! Raw C Straight Up Coconut Water and Raw C Organic Virgin Coconut Oils (available in 330ml, 700ml and bumper 1500ml jars) have been given a makeover. The clean and clear new packaging is the perfect complement to the 100% pure, all-natural coconut goodness that can be found inside. Find Raw C at Coles and Woolworths and a selection of independent local grocers. For more #rawsome Raw C recipe ideas and to read dietitian Millie Padula’s articles on the benefits of coconut water and coconut oil in a balanced diet, head to rawc.com.au
THE PERFECT PLATE AWARDS
How good does this Battuta Alla Romana look? The dish of tender lamb shoulder served with a white bean salad and garlic bread is Norths Cammeray’s entry into the Clubs NSW foodie competition, the Perfect Plate Awards, which aim to find the most popular dishes at our favourite local clubs. Head to Norths before the end of June to try the dish and cast your vote and you could win $2500 in dining vouchers too!
A side of kindness
For every jar purchased of Lavender Bay based Vandero gourmet mustard, a meal is donated to OzHarvest to help Aussies in need. Mustard varieties include cracked pepper; nuts, seeds and port; craft beer and bird’s eye chilli. Find the jars at vandero.com.au or in store at Le Pont Milsons Point.
Foodie news
Local eats and treats
Brekkie bakes
Belle bubbles
Maison Perrier-Jouët has released the 2013 Vintage of their highly celebrated Belle Epoque cuvée. Produced in strictly limited quantities and crafted only in years when the seasons have aligned perfectly, Belle Epoque showcases the distinctive quality of the Perrier-Jouët vineyard. $349.99 from local Dan Murphy’s and Vintage Cellars
There’s nothing better than waking up to the smell of freshly baked croissants! I Love Butter provide you with bake-at-home croissants and cinnamon scrolls from the pastry geniuses at Nosh Plus café on Spofforth Street. Head to ilovebutter.com.au to place your order and get that coffee brewed!
Use it, don’t lose it!
Your Dine and Discover vouchers expire at the end of June so don’t forget to use them! There’s lots of venues signed up all across the lower north shore so don’t miss out. Head to northsider.com.au to check out our neighbourhood guides of participating venues.
Cheese lovers
MKR winner, cookbook author and proud northsider Will Stewart talks all things cheese
You better brie-lieve that Winter is as gouda time as any to tuck into a spot of fromage accompanied by a good vino or two. Here, I share some of my top cheese platter picks, discover a fun cheese and wine degustation in Crows Nest and serve up a few cheesy puns just for good measure.
Bon appetite! Will x
On the side
I always say “If it grows together, it goes together,” when creating a cheese board. For example, balsamic vinegar comes from the same region as Parmesan so try dipping a chunk of the cheese into an aged balsamic!
Tangy pickles are the perfect palate refreshers when enjoying rich and creamy cheeses.
The fun of fizz
Bubbles are beautiful with Brie or Camembert but a sweet and tangy Parmigiano-Reggiano also works wonders. The little crunchy white crystals of protein that form during the ageing process add to the cheese’s texture and pair playfully with a delicate Prosecco.
On cloud wine
Aussie Rieslings tend to be off-dry and with this in mind, I’d give milder cheeses a go, like a young cheddar, ideally of 3-6 months maturity. Why not try a cloth-wrapped version? This technique allows the cheese to breathe and develop a more complex flavour compared to wax or vacuum sealed varieties.
Get red-y…
REJOICE!
Camembert has beautiful, earthy qualities and an intense, creamy, room-temperature wedge really stands up to the bold, jammy, pepper and spice of a good Shiraz. Serve with some walnuts and slices of fresh pear. Go for it!
As with all our foodie adventures, there’s really no wrong answers or combinations. Have fun experimenting with flavours and you might discover something un-brie-lievably delicious!
“SERVE YOUR CHEESE AT ROOM TEMPERATURE. THIS ALLOWS IT TO RELAX AND ENHANCES THE FLAVOURS”
REJOICE!
Hendriks owner Jakob Overduin is Crows Nest born and bred. His neat bar nestled on Holtermann Street is inspired by his dear late dad, Hendrik, who loved a Cognac or two.
That’s why you’ll find over 30 varieties of the iconic French brandy on the menu as well as a range of Cognac cocktails. There’s over 100 palate pleasing wines to choose from as well as classic cocktails with a twist, like the spicy Gingerbread Espresso Martini.
The venue’s inventive cheese degustation ($80pp), matches eight delicious wines with wedges of cheese accompanied by crackers and condiments. Think a young Bourgogne triple cream paired with bright Prosecco, slices of L’Artisan Fermier washed rind matched with a buttery Chardonnay from Orange. Or a tangy Tasmanian cloth-bound
cheddar coupled with a classic Barossa Shiraz and a rich Grubb Cashel Blue with a smooth Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon.
“We’re always trying to be creative, to do something that hasn’t been done before,” Jakob says. “We want people to try something different...to have fun and enjoy the journey.”
So once you’ve digested your degustation, why not try Hendriks’ signature jaffles, made from giant 17cm² slices of bread from bespoke loaves baked just for the venue. Choose from fillings that include four cheeses, spicy salami or slow-cooked lamb, served with a signature Cognac drizzle. Dessert options are packed with melted chocolate, banoffee and all the good stuff. Want more? There’s trivia on Tuesdays, live music on Sundays and the outside tables are dog-friendly too. Cheers! ●
Hendriks Cognac and Wine owner Jakob Overduin and me.
Pictured below left is Jakob’s late father, Hendrik, the inspiration behind the Crows Nest small bar.
The Northside Produce Market is held on the first and third Saturday of every month from 8am to 12 noon - rain, hail or shine! Here are some foodie picks to add to your shopping list next time you go...
Brekkie booster
Warm up your tastebuds with some of Chunky Dave’s Chilli Peanut Butter on your toast!
Tea time! Neo Tea’s Mona Webb blends organic brews according to ancient Indian Ayurvedic recipes which include selections of herbs to support natural processes in the body. With echinacea, lemongrass and ginger to support the immune system, her Echinacea Accelerator tea is a top choice for Winter.
NEW TO NORTHSIDE
Azteca Margarita create Mexican salsas and delicious margarita mixers including Classic Lime, Grapefruit and Agave and Smoky Jalapeno. Arriba!
Market Day
Introducing some of the local producers, makers and small businesses from our neighbourhood markets
The Kirribilli Markets take place from 8.30am-3pm on the second Sunday (Art, Fashion and Design) and fourth Saturday (General and Fashion) of each month. From skincare and jewellery to cushions and candles, you’re sure to find something special!
Designer style
Say hi to the cheery chaps at Takessuy Jewellery. Japanese jewellery designer Takeshi Okada creates delicate hand-crafted necklaces and earrings which couple gems and natural stones with 14k gold and sterling silver. Perfect for a unique gift (or a treat for yourself!)
Market dogs
Both local markets are dog friendly, just remember to keep your four-legged friends on the leash. Mango the pug is a regular at the Northside Produce Market. Mango loves meeting stallholders and market goers and enjoying yummy treats!
All organic
Visit family-owned Juicy Chemistry for 100% natural, plant-based, all organic skin care. There’s super moisturising night cream, lip balms, face masks, body washes and more all created with beautiful essential oils.
A neighbourhood favourite
As well as room hire, fitness classes and a cosy library, there’s lots going on at the Kirribilli Centre on Fitzroy Street
Read all about it!
A cosy library packed with hundreds of books can be found right here in Kirribilli. From kids’ reads to popular adult titles including thrillers, romances, biographies and lots more. Books can be borrowed for two weeks and a librarian is on-site on Wednesdays to help with recommendations. The library’s open from 9am to 5pm Monday-Thursday and until 4pm on Friday.
Fit for life
Whether you’re looking to add a new discipline such as Pilates, yoga or tai chi to your weekly workout, want to improve your strength and balance in your senior years, or step out with the popular bushwalking group, you’re sure to find an activity for you at the Kirribilli Centre. Just make sure to book so you don’t miss out!
Market
day
Did you know the iconic Kirribilli Markets are organised by the Kirribilli Centre team? All funds from market day go straight to supporting the centre and its work in our community. ● For more info and to book, head to thekirribillicentre.org
Courtyard
THE KIRRIBILLI CENTRE
KICK OFF !
Footy season is in full swing and what better way of supporting your favourite team than wearing their colours? This fun scarf knitting pattern is perfect for match day at the oval or simply for showing your colours any day of the week!
Did you miss our cute beanie pattern from our Winter 2019 issue? Simply head to northsider.com.au for all the info!
To make a child’s scarf, simply reduce the stitches to make a narrower scarf and bind off at a shorter length.
• Work in 1 x 1 Rib (Knit 1, Purl 1, Repeat) across row for 10 rows.
• Change to your second colour yarn work in 1 x 1 Rib for 10 rows.
• Alternate colours for length of the scarf, ending last 10 rows with your first colour choice
• Knit for desired length. Bind off. Weave in loose ends.
Rover reporter Ted the Puggle chats to Wollstonecraft local and fashion pup- uencer, 18-month-old Jellybean the Gri on Bruxellois.
‘My grandma knits me the best sweaters!’
Ted: With your stylish fashion sense you’ve got almost 5k followers on Instagram. Do you get recognised in the dog park? I bet you get lots of pats!
Jellybean: Nice to meet you Ted! I’ve been recognised once but I’m quite shy so unless people give me butt scratches, I sniff their ankles and dart away before they can pat me.
T: You’ve got lots of paw-some outfits.
What’s your fave?
J: I have so many I can’t choose just one! IdPet make my favourite personalised harnesses and hoodies, Holly & Co’s velvet sailor bow ties are fab, Doggone Dapper also do incredible bow ties using Japanese folding techniques and I pair everything with a Pupstarsonoma hat!
T: What are your tips for 2021 Winter walkies fashion?
J: Jumpers are always a winner. My grandma knits me the best sweaters to keep me warm which I pair with a Mr Soft Top faux fur collar
or beanie. I think leg warmers will be in this season so I’m currently on the hunt for some colourful rainbow ones!
T: Where will you be rocking your legwarmers?
J: I love Flat Rock Gully because of all the lovely smells and there are loads of brush turkeys to chase which is always fun.
My friends all go to St Thomas Rest Park so it’s great to see them there and I think that Waverton Park is pawsome as I can run around off the leash.
T: I’ve heard you love carrots, just like me! What else does a fashion pup love eating?
J: Raw K9 food is great as I get lots of different raw meats including chicken feet and quail eggs. Yum! For a treat, Woof Gateaux make the tastiest cakes – Uncle Jason made me a toilet roll birthday cake for my party at the dog park and even put a framed picture of me up on the wall in his Enmore pup café!
From left: I love a rainbow look and am on the hunt for some rainbow legwarmers for Winter! Sun’s out, tongue’s out on Berry Island and the day I tried out some shoes. Can confirm I wasn’t a huge fan.
T: Where’s hot right now for a puppaccino?
J: Café Lost & Found on Miller Street in North Sydney do an amazing puppacino and delicious doggie cookies. I always get a cheeky burger treat when my paw-rents go to Milky Lane in Crows Nest and the Puppy Tail Café in Lane Cove serves up delicious brunch ‘woofles’!
T: It’s a bit chilly for swimming in Winter, but I can’t resist making a splash. Where do you go?
J: Sirius Cove in Mosman as it has warm water and soft sand to bury your face into and Hayes Street Beach in Neutral Bay is perfect for a quick after work dip.
T: When you’re not being a top fashionista, what’s your favourite game to play to take a break from social media?
J: I love stealing my parents’ socks and shoes. It makes me so happy when they chase after me! Stealing toilet paper was also one of my favourite activities until my parents moved it out of reach for good.
T: I’m more of a plus-size pup (my paw-rents always tell me I’m on something called a diet?) but still love a fashion look. What’s your top style tip for doggos of all shapes and sizes?
J: Wear whatever colour or style you like, as long as it brings you joy!
T: Sounds like great advice Jellybean. Let me know how you go finding those rainbow legwarmers. I think they sound grrr-eat! ●
Follow Jellybean on Instagram @jellybean.thegriff
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.
Winter, your pet and arthritis
The cooler months can be a challenging time for our older canine friends, especially those who suffer from arthritis associated with ageing. This occurs due to years of wear and tear on the joints and is characterised by the progressive loss of joint cartilage, bone spurs/growths and the thickening and scarring of connective tissue around the joints.
The goals when treating arthritis are to alleviate discomfort, to minimise further degenerative changes to the joint and to restore the joint’s functionality. Multiple types of treatment are usually necessary to relieve pain, stiffness and discomfort.
If you’re concerned your dog is slowing down as the weather cools, or showing signs of stiffness and a reluctance to exercise, your vet can help design a multi-modal program to help manage the problem and maximise your pet’s comfort through winter. ● @petmedicalmilsonspoint
Visit petmedical.com.au or call 8203 4390 or at 28 Alfred Street, Milsons Point (Opp. Bradfield Park).
From left: Me after a quick dip at Hayes Street Beach in Neutral Bay and looking dapper in my bowler hat and tweed waistcoat.
PUZZLES with Quizmaster
The Village Quiz
1. How many metres long is North Sydney Olympic Pool?
2. In what year were the North Sydney Bears established? A: 1908, B: 1910 or C: 1915
3. Which Australian swimming champion, who broke the 800 yards freestyle world record at North Sydney Olympic Pool in 1958, recently died aged 78?
4. North Sydney Oval is one of the oldest cricket grounds in Australia. But when was the first cricket pitch was laid? A: 1857, B: 1867 or C: 1887
5. Which one of these is not one of the historic 18-footer fleet at the Sydney Flying Squadron? A: Aberdare, B: Dundee or C: Scot
6. True or false? Sir Donald Bradman once lived in McMahons Point?
7. Who achieved the highest individual score in a test innings for Australia at North Sydney Oval in Nov 2017?
8. What marine animals are the Mosman Rugby Club also known as?
Clay
SUDOKU Slot the numbers 1 to 9 into every horizontal line, vertical row and 3 x 3 square.
Solutions
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VILLAGE QUIZ
50 metres
A. 1908
John Konrads
B. 1867
B. Dundee 6. True. He lived in Bay View Street and was one of the rstfi Australians to get a private telephone.
7. Ellyse Perry, 213* not out, against England
8. The Whales
Art & about
Local artist, Robyn Kennedy, takes us on a tour of some of North Sydney’s surprising hidden gems…
My husband and I love going for walks and exploring the local area,” Robyn tells northsider. A keen photographer, she always makes sure her camera is at hand to capture the beautiful places and surprising sights she discovers.
“I started a blog to inspire others to go out and discover them too,” Robyn says.
Her blog, Life Out and About, combines stunning images with information about the areas and the cafés, shops and places of interest Robyn finds along the way. A lower north shore local for
40 years, Robyn has been inundated with interest about her walking routes, which she also maps and shares. And while it’s a tough call to choose a favourite walk, Robyn particularly enjoys the village vibe of McMahons Point.
“And there’s so much variety around there,” she says. “From Lavender Bay to Kirribilli and North Sydney…I love the contrasts of architecture, art and history around every corner.” l
Find Robyn and her jewellery designs at the Coal Loader’s Quarterly Artisans Market and see more of her walks at lifeoutandabout.com.au and on Facebook and Instagram @lifeoutandabout.au
about
Clockwise from top left: Signal boxes part of North Sydney Council’s ‘Colouring our Habitat’ community art initiative; new building details on Miller St; Freddie Timms’ painting ‘Lissadell’ at Coca Cola Place is one of the largest contemporary Aboriginal paintings ever completed; mural work by artist Matt McLarty; architectural patterns at the corner of Blue and Miller St and ‘Chroma Haze’ by Nike Savvas at 1 Denison
Local’s last word.
Yvette Elizondo, 32, has been a northsider for six years and has lived in McMahons Point, Waverton and Cremorne. She works in North Sydney.
My favourite place for coffee is…Nosh Plus - an absolute gem on Spofforth Street. All their yummy food is homemade with options from brekky pastries to lunch pies! I’ve been on the hunt for the ‘best croissant’ for some time and Nosh has come in on top. My go-to order is a skim cap and a cinnamon croissant – always served fresh and with a smile. The best meal I’ve had in the area was…at Celsius Coffee Co. Arrive at the Kirribili wharf cafe for opening to beat the queue. Every item on the menu has been delicious. A personal fave has to be the Burrata & Mushrooms served up on sourdough with chimichurri. If I want a glass of wine, I go to…Glorietta in North Sydney is great for team catch ups and also a stop off on the way home. Gin is always my drink of choice and the cocktail menu here does not disappoint (try the Hugo!). Once I’m in the door I also can’t help ordering the flat bread or the Burrata Pizza.
The secret spot I love to go to is… Avenue Road Café in Mosman. I’m making my way through their menu, but one item I’ve had to reorder is the ‘OMG Fritters’
My fave local takeaway is… Simply Fish n’ Chips on Rangers Road. Every order I’ve placed has been delivered in record time. I love their grilled fish and chips. The chips are perfect with lots of crispy ones and the fish always arrives freshly cooked (not soggy!).
If I’ve got guests in town… nothing beats the harbour, so it’s nice to show off our ‘backyard’… I’m lucky to be a couple of blocks from the Cremorne Point Walk so we’d pick up a coffee at the Mosman Rowers then follow the path around the harbour. From there, we’d dip our feet into Maccallum Pool or head into the city by ferry.
The three words I’d use to describe this area are... tranquil, nature, convenient
My favourite local walk is… there are so many to choose from! Our area is filled with some amazing places to walk. Depending on my mood I can find myself at Sirius Cove with all the dogs or doing the Taronga to Balmoral walk. I can never get over how green, lush and, in some parts, tropical the path is when you are just a stone’s throw from the city hustle.
My ideal day in the area would consist of…An early walk around Cremorne Reserve before heading to the Northside Produce Market. Once I’ve loaded up on delicious fresh ingredients, I’d head to Avenue Road Café for lunch followed by an afternoon of cooking with the ingredients I’d bought that morning. The market really gets your chef brain into overdrive and it’s as if you’re on your own cooking show trialling new ideas for your fresh ingredients!
The thing about living in this area I love the most is… living in a lush green hub that’s so quiet but also so conveniently located. The city and harbour are all right here on our doorsteps. l
