We’re super excited to be back with our latest issue, which is, as always, jam-packed with local love.
As North Sydney’s boutique independent publisher, there’s nothing we enjoy more than bringing you stories from our wonderful neighbourhoods. Let us know what you think!
Have you checked out our thriving online community yet? As well as our website northsider.com.au, you can find us on Facebook and Instagram @northsidersydney
We share beautiful pics of the area as well as local inspiration for things to do, places to go and people to meet. Give us a follow and tag us in your posts so we can share even more local love.
See you around the ‘hood!
Anna Gordon EDITOR
ART DIRECTOR: Belinda Spillane hello@northsider.com.au
Meet Foxie, the life-size terrier statue by Clary Akon that sits on top of the Broomfield Memorial Drinking Fountain in Bradfield Park. The bronze pooch was created to celebrate the Harbour Bridge’s 75th anniversary and was installed in 2007. The fountain commemorates Jessie Broomfield, who bequeathed money to Sydney dogs’ homes in 1953 and requested that public parks have fountains with troughs for pups to drink from. Over the past few months, cheeky Foxie has been spotted toting a colourful frisbee, a mysterious gift from a mischievous, anonymous local playmate.
We proudly acknowledge the Cammeraygal people of the Eora nation as customary owners of the land on which we live, work and share these stories. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.
“THE DAY SHOULD START FROM THE MOMENT YOU WAKE UP, NOT WHEN YOU DRESS UP!”
Sophia Ly, outside her Cremorne café, I Love Butter.
A sweet success
northsider meets Cremorne’s croissant queen and discovers the rising trend for brekkie treats
It’s 1am on a Monday morning and the streets of North Sydney are quiet. While most northsiders are fast asleep, some are already hard at work to make sure our weeks start in the sweetest possible way.
From buttery croissants and fruit laden Danish pastries to sweet and salty kouign amann, local bakers have never been busier satisfying our comfort food cravings.
One of the early risers who sees 1am on a regular basis is Mosman mum-of-three and café owner, Sophia Ly. Sophia, who runs I Love Butter (formerly Nosh Plus) in Cremorne, has seen demand for her signature plain, cinnamon sprinkled and almond paste stuffed croissants skyrocket in the past year. She’s now baking up to 3000 a week and regularly has queues snaking down Spofforth Street from her coral-coloured store front.
“You get used to it!” she laughs, referring to her early alarm. “You definitely don’t do this job for the glamour.”
A self-taught baker with an infectious smile and oodles of energy, Sophia’s success didn’t happen overnight.
“The first three years were really tough,” the 42 year old says. “I’d never owned
a business in my entire life and there were times when I just thought ‘what have I done?’ But I knew I had to make it work. Seven years ago there wasn’t anywhere doing a really good croissant on the lower north shore. I wanted to focus on that and make the best product I could.”
“Not everyone knows a good croissant,” she continues. “I think my Khmer background and the French influence on Cambodian cuisine really helped me here.”
Originally from Siem Reap, Sophia grew up in a refugee camp in Thailand after her family fled their home following Pol Pot’s brutal regime. During the dictator’s time in power, up to two million Cambodians died of disease starvation, execution or overwork. Educated Cambodians, such as Sophia’s mother
A young Sophia with her parents and siblings
OUR COMFORT FOOD CRAVINGS EXPLAINED
Dr Clinton Moore of Cadence Psychology, North Sydney on why we’re craving more croissants and carbs post lockdown life.
“In a lot of ways 2021 was the year of the burnout. Not many people were able to escape the drain of constant change as we grappled with lockdowns, irregular working hours and daily doom scrolling. With uncertainty still regularly popping up in 2022, simple routines like grabbing your daily baked treat can provide some much wanted familiarity. These selfcompassionate actions are incredibly important in helping to fill up your emotional energy reserves, which burnout often tries to drain. It also helps that the little pinch of sugar involved gives a nice dopamine hit that can support us through those hard times too.”
and father, were specifically targeted by the regime and faced execution for reasons that could have included simply wearing glasses or being able to read. Sophia’s parents took their 10 kids and escaped to Thailand where they found themselves surviving on rations from the United Nations. The family’s treat was to share an apple once a week.
Arriving in Australia at the age of 11, Sophia learned English while attending high school and helping out on the family farm, before going on to work as a dressmaker.
And then seven years ago, the opportunity arose to buy a café from relatives.
Despite having no baking experience, Sophia leapt at the chance. Learning how to make coffee first, she then got to work with her baker to perfect her croissant recipe.
“There should be a crunchiness to the outside,” Sophia enthuses. “And inside you should look for air bubbles and a texture that when you pull it apart, it clings together and has some elasticity. And if it’s yellow, that’s a good thing! It means it’s been made with butter. And butter matters.”
Word started to spread about Sophia’s croissants and her big-hearted hospitality and her café began to flourish.
And then, Covid happened.
LOCAL LEGEND
The first three weeks of the pandemic saw everything at the café grind to a halt.
“We couldn’t open and I’d see other places doing takeaway and I knew we had to adapt,” Sophia says. She took this as a sign to launch an idea she’d been kneading over for a while, the I Love Butter bake at home croissants and pastries. Orders from locals began to flood in, and when her café could open again, that’s when the queues started. And they’ve never stopped.
“I guess Covid really put us on the map,” Sophia says. “A lot of the locals used to get their coffee in the city and then suddenly they discovered us. And I think people were craving that comfort, that routine.”
Sophia is now seeking inspiration for new menu items. And there’s whispers the kouign amann, a caramely confection that could be the croissant’s sweeter cousin which she introduced during lockdown, could be making a reappearance.
“Breakfast is the new dinner,” Sophia concludes. “The day should start from the moment you wake up, not when you dress up. Why wait to treat yourself when, by dinner time, most of us are tired from the challenges of our daily routine? Dunking a croissant into a cup of coffee truly is life changing.” ●
From left: Sophia at 5am with an all important coffee as she prepares for the daily pastry rush at I Love Butter on Spofforth Street; Sophia and some of the team. She currently has a staff of 12 serving in the café, baking and fulfilling orders and catering jobs.
The perfect croissant combination of crispy on the outside with a light and buttery inside.
The croissant crew
The local bakers meeting northsiders’ demands for quality carbs and flaky, buttery breakfast goodness.
Loulou, Milsons Point
A traditional-style French boulangerie that continues to bake throughout the day.
Le 76 Pâtisserie and Bakery, Neutral Bay French pastry chef Jean Marc serves up viennoiserie, breads and patisserie in Theo’s Arcade.
St Honoré, North Sydney
Freshly made pies, sausage rolls, bread and pastries as well as indulgent cakes.
Fiore, McMahons Point
The newest boulangerie on the block, you can now find freshly baked bread on Blues Point Road.
Grumpy Baker, Waverton and Neutral Bay
Sweet treats and sourdoughs made freshly each day and often open on public holidays.
Blue Fur Scuff, $49.95
Peter Alexander Greenwood Plaza, 36 Blue Street, Nth Sydney
Handwoven loop scarf created on the loom by Studio A artist Adam Mandarano, $120 Studio A studioa.org.au
Neutral Bay Club 140 Year Commemorative Wines, $70 for the Chardonnay/Shiraz pair The Neutral Bay Club 3 Westleigh St, Neutral Bay neutralbayclub.com
Anna Chandler doormat, $60 Rapture Living 150 Blues Point Road, McMahons Point
Kate Banazi 1000pc Jigsaw Puzzle Round, $65 Professor Plums 1 Ernest Pl, Crows Nest professorplums.com.au
Lessons In Chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus, $32.95 Mention northsider and buy for $25! Blues Point Bookshop 131 Blues Point Road, McMahons Point
ake a walk to the end of a tree-lined path just off Kurraba Road and you’ll discover a blooming lovely pocket of green hidden behind the apartment blocks. Tucked onto the side of a slope overlooking Neutral Bay, the award-winning Kurraba Point Community Garden is packed with plants, all lovingly cultivated and cared for by local volunteers.
“We have our flower and native sections at the top of the slope, which provide cascading colour down to meet our vegetable pods,” garden coordinator Jim L’Estrange tells northsider. “Kids love the animal statues we’ve placed among the plants, which are a great way of getting them involved, and we added a native beehive last year. It’s a wonderful way of educating visitors about the importance of gardens and plant life to our ecology.”
and everyone in-between. And as well growing friendships and horticulture skills, volunteers also get to enjoy the pick of the bunch when it comes to the garden’s vegie harvest.
“Seeing something you’ve planted from seed and nurtured until it becomes something for your dinner plate or something to admire for its colour and scent is so satisfying,” Jim continues. “And I love meeting and working with our volunteers. They’re all ages, come from all over the world and have amazing stories.”
With a database of around 50 helpers, a working bee can see up to 15 regulars rolling up their sleeves under the guidance of Jim and his two fellow coordinators, Matt McGuire and Gayle Bryant. They welcome experienced gardeners, absolute beginners
“OF COURSE, WEEDS DON’T CARE WHAT SEASON IT IS SO THERE’S ALWAYS PLENTY TO DO”
While Winter might be considered a quiet season in the community garden, the opposite is actually the case.
“It’s the most popular time of year for people wanting to help,” Jim, who’s been part of the garden team for five years, says. “It’s always a great time of year to take stock of the past season, to chat about what grew well and what plants we feel would work best. And of course, weeds don’t care what season it is so there’s always plenty to do, including turning over the soil and preparing for Spring planting.”
Once all the hard work is done, there’s that very special view to enjoy with your fellow green thumbs.
“Our garden looks out on to Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge so it’s a really great place to get together, to enjoy the greenery and the colour and the odd glass of wine while watching the sunset,” Jim concludes.
GARDEN PARTY!
Blooming lovely!
Kurraba Point Community Garden has won a number of prizes for being the best public space maintained by residents and also the most sustainable garden. “It really reflects the commitment of our volunteers and the thought we put into the space,” Jim says.
Henry
“Our goal is to grow enough greens to make a salad any day of the week”
IFreiburg, Garden Coordinator, Forsyth Park Community Garden
founded the garden at Forsyth Park back in 2015, together with Edwina Feilen, Paul Barton and Carol Barton. It took about a year to get Council support, community input and the main landscaping done. We have about 20 volunteers at the moment and the friendly, community spirit is one of my favourite things about the garden.
We have shared plantings and a shared harvest with no individual plots and our goal is to grow enough greens that we can drop in to make a salad any day of the week. Anything beyond that’s a bonus.
Forsyth Park Community Garden is situated on top of disused oil tanks and was constructed from recycled materials
IN!
Anzac Park, Cammeray
We’re always trying to grow new things for fun, but lettuce and beans are our staples. I love artichokes, which produce magnificent flowers if you don’t pick them in time, and the cucumbers are also a favourite of mine. There’s always one more if you look hard enough!
Winter is definitely a great time to come along and help out in the garden. We’re all a bit less busy, so we can take time to relax while doing general maintenance and the planting of Winter crops. ●
Want to get involved? For more info on Kurraba Point Community Garden head to facebook.com/ KurrabaGarden and for Forsyth Park Community Garden facebook.com/ForsythParkCommunityGarden
Community gardens are supported by North Sydney Council and looked after by teams of volunteers. Contact the Council’s Streets Alive Coordinator for info on 9936 8100
Designed to represent The Army’s Rising Sun badge and set on a 600m2 block, this garden boasts 13 raised vegetable beds of different heights and four large perennial herb beds as well as fruit trees, bushes and vines.
The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability, Waverton
There’s a number of opportunities at the Coal Loader, from allotment gardens to two community gardens and an aquaponics project, which sees fish and plants growing together. You can also help with the chooks!
Milson Community Garden, Kirribilli
Located in Milson Park, the garden design is based on a medieval structure and the raised beds allow for wheelchair access to 50% of the planting. Heirloom tomatoes, heritage strawberries and purple climbing beans are just some of their varied harvest.
Little Young Street, Cammeray Opened in 2020, this is the area’s newest community garden. Located above the Brightmore Reserve, volunteers meet every Saturday from 9am to 12pm to tend the mixture of fruit and vegetables, perennials and annuals.
Celebrating seven years of authentic Italian hospitality
VIA DELLA SPIGA
For the past seven years, Chef Juri Alberti has proudly brought the authentic taste of Italy to his award-winning restaurant Via Della Spiga in North Sydney. Originally from Milan, Juri’s 25 years as a chef shines in each dish he creates. Join Juri this Winter for a traditional dining experience that’s rich in homestyle Italian hospitality.
The I.T. Lady is a local female led technology company
While you’re focusing on the things you’re good at, we’ll take care of your technology services.
Show
time!
WThe Studio A finalists and team at the opening of the Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2022
Crows Nest art collective Studio A are celebrating a recent run of show success
ith four finalists in the Archibald, one in the Sulman and two artists involved in runway designs at Australian Fashion Week, Studio A is continuing to expand its creative influence.
Artists Meagan Pelham and Adam Mandarano created fabrics for iconic design duo Romance Was Born’s latest collection.
“I got to weave with ribbon which I’ve never done before,” Adam says. “I was so happy about it. I’d love to do more.” “It made me feel awesome and proud,” Meagan continues. “It makes me feel in love with my future.”
Meagan is also shortlisted in the Archibald. Her entry continues her collaboration with the fashion label, with designer Anna Plunkett sitting as the subject for Romance is LOVE
Catherine McGuiness’ portrait of artist Rosie Deacon made the Archibald cut and fellow creatives Emily Crockford and Thom Roberts are both now two-time Archibald finalists.
“I love patterns and details and my
favourite bright colours,” Emily says of her work, which shows Studio A’s Artistic Director, Gabrielle Mordy, and Principal Artist, Emma Johnston. “Painting close friends and best friends was also a favourite part.”
Angel Mum, Noel Humphrey by Victoria Atkinson appears in the Sulman prize. Painted on plywood, it’s a touching memorial to the artist’s mum, who died last year, and includes a light to depict her spirit shining.
“My favourite part was remembering my mother. I miss her deeply,” Victoria says.
As well as being gifted creatives, the artists who make up Studio A all have intellectual disabilities. “The biggest obstacle we have is the perception that artists with disabilities can only do art therapy,” Gabrielle Mordy told northsider when we visited Studio A in 2020. “As soon as people see the artwork first, that’s when the perception changes.” ●
The Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes 2022 run until the 28 August at the Art Gallery of NSW.
LtoR: Catherine McGuiness with her artwork; fabric created for Romance Was Born by Studio A; artist Adam Mandarano with the fashion label’s Luke Sales.
IN THE FRAME
Loved by locals, Fantastic Framing North Sydney has become a go-to for the community since opening their doors back in 2020
From framing original etchings of Disney’s Winnie the Pooh to signed footy shirts, intricate Indigenous artworks, family photos and more, no two jobs are ever the same for the team at Fantastic Framing North Sydney.
“Framers get to see more art than anyone else in the world,” store manager Amogh Sharma says. “It’s such a privilege to be able to help preserve them.”
Amogh and his team, framers Lizzie Hale and Alexandre Rodrigues, are dedicated to breathing new life into artworks with their commitment to innovation, attention to detail and passion for customer connections.
Lizzie, who has an art major from George Mason University in Virginia, joined the store nine months ago.
“I was a customer first!” she says. “I’d be walking past the store during lockdown and it would remind me of all the art I needed framing, so I started bringing pieces in.”
Becoming a bit of a regular, when she spotted a role was available, she jumped at the chance to become part of the team.
A new view
Fantastic Framing North Sydney is excited to now offer Art Glass as an option for framing your most treasured pieces. The special glass has been created to protect against UV rays and minimise reflections. It appears to be virtually invisible inside the frame and allows all the colours, textures and fine details of your artwork to remain beautifully rich and clear no matter how long it is on the wall.
Picture perfect
As well as being a busy framing store, the team in North Sydney have a range of artworks for sale, including pieces by notable Indigenous artists
FRAME
“People are shocked when they realise there’s glass in the frames!” Amogh says.
“If you’re going to have something on your wall for a long time, it’s definitely worth thinking about Art Glass,” Lizzie continues. “Over time even just 10 minutes of sunshine a day will cause damage. If we see anything coming in to the store that’s hand signed by the artist, a numbered print, an original piece or a special item, such as a professional certificate or an autographed shirt for example, we always recommend considering Art Glass for extra protection.”
Art to your doorstep
Painting too big to fit in the car? No time to drop off your art for framing? No worries!
“We can come to you,” Alex explains. “We’ll collect your art, have it framed, deliver it
“I’D WALK PAST THE STORE DURING
LOCKDOWN
AND IT REMINDED ME OF ALL THE ART I NEEDED FRAMING”
back to you and even hang it on your wall if you need us to help with that too.”
And if you’re buying art, it can also arrive at your home, framed and ready to go.
“We work directly with a range of local artists and galleries, so if you buy a piece from them and decide on your framing, you don’t need to do anything else. The piece will come straight to us, we’ll frame it and deliver it to you,” Amogh adds. “People almost don’t believe it when we tell them about our service, but we really are a one stop shop.”
With a brand new, easy to use website, the highly regarded team is looking forward to seeing what art might arrive next.
“We work really hard and we’re so proud of all our online reviews,” Amogh says. “Pop in and have a chat if you’re passing,” he encourages. “We’d love to see how we can help bring more art to your home and keep those treasured pieces special for years to come.” ●
Visit the team at Fantastic Framing North Sydney, 2/283a Miller Street. Call 1300 797 977 or visit fantasticframing.com.au to view their online art store, find more out about their services and book mobile framing.
Fantastic Framing North Sydney’s Alex, Lizzie and Amogh
WINTER STYLE
Gwyneth Dress, $159.99, Sheik
Gold Resin Hoop Earring, $16.95, Sussan
Fawn Textured Loop Scarf, $39.95, Sussan
Saleema Boot, Tan, $259.95, Nine West
Hudson Fluffy Coatigan, $139.95, Decjuba
Leather Gloves, Black, $89.95, Seed
Vermeer Antique Tort Polarised Lenses from $145, Bailey Nelson
Enrolments open for term three of classes and workshops at the North Sydney Community Centre. Places fill up fast in the varied selection of activities so make sure you head to northsydneycentre. com.au to make your selection and secure your spot.
DON'T FORGET TO DINE AND DISCOVER!
If you’ve still got some Dine and Discover vouchers left, don’t let them go to waste. The expiry date is the 30 June so head to northsider.com.au to check out our suburb specific lists of local venues who are signed up to the Dine and Discover list.
WHAT'S MY STYLE?
Vivienne Cable from Image By Design aims to reveal more about your personal style. Have fun with fashion! northsydneycentre. com.au for more info.
8
WORLD OCEAN DAY AT FOYS KIRRIBILLI
Foys Kirribilli has partnered with Sea Shepherd Australia's Sydney Chapter to host a special screening of the One Ocean Film Tour, featuring educational ocean-loving films focused on adventure. Tickets include admission and vegan cinema bites with all proceeds to Sea Shepherd Australia foyskirribilli.com.au
A DOLL'S HOUSE
To the world, Nora Helmer has it all. But an unwanted visitor might shake her seemingly solid marriage to the core. Renowned playwright Joanna MurraySmith gives a fresh perspective to Ibsen’s classic about throwing open the door to life’s possibilities. From 10 June until 16 July. 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
CANCER COUNCIL'S STARS OF THE NORTH
After a three year hiatus, Stars of the North is back with a whole new squad of local personalities ready to put their talent to the test to dance for cancer! A high energy dance spectacular raising much needed funds for Cancer Council NSW. Ticket includes show, three course meal and welcome drink norths.com.au
4TH&18TH NORTHSIDE
PRODUCE MARKET 8am-12pm, Ted Mack Civic Park, North Sydney.
EVERY WEEK TRIVIA NIGHT AT THE NEUTRAL BAY CLUB
Get quizzical at the club, Wednesdays from 7pm. Free entry.
18TH CROWS NEST MARKET
Up to 50 stalls on the Ernest Place village green including arts, crafts, giftware, toys, jewellery, homewares, jams, condiments and more.
EVERY WEEK BINGO WEDNESDAYS AT HENDRIKS COGNAC AND WINE
With prizes and food and drinks specials, it's going to be a full house! Games start at 7pm at the Crows Nest bar. Head to hendriks.bar for info.
JULY
FROZEN SING-A-LONG AT THE ORPHEUM
A great family outing with all tickets only $10! Head to orpheum.com.au to book for this special Sunday 10.30am sing-a-long session and get ready to let it goooooo at the iconic cinema.
SCRABBLE AND SCONES
Head to the Kirribilli Centre for Scones and Scrabble each Tuesday from 10am to 1pm. A great way to meet prople, have fun and enjoy a lovely scone or two! Grab a friend and come along or come by yourself. The centre will provide the Scrabble boards and the scones!
FREE. Bookings essential on 9922 4428
KATH AND KIM DRAG BINGO!
It's noice, different, unusual...join everyone's favourite foxy morons for a fun evening of fan favourite Kath and Kim Drag Bingo at Norths Cammeray. Bookings are absolutely essential, $35, norths.com.au
I.T. KIDZ CAMP
Help your child get ahead of the technology game at the super fun school holiday workshops run by the I.T. Lady team in Milsons Point. Kids will be learning to code, design logos and discover functional and helpful digital skills to enhance their school learning. Camp 1 takes place on the 4th July and is a one day session for beginners aged 7-9, Camp 2 is a two day camp for beginners aged 10-12 on the 7th and 8th July and Camp 3 is for kids aged 12-14 who are at an intermediate level, taking place on the 11th and 12th July. Book online at itlady.com.au/ itkidz/ or call on 1300 75 33 27.
FIRST VIEWING 2ND JULY
ROYAL ART SOCIETY NSW ART BALLOT Take part in this major fundraiser for the Lavender Bay not-for-profit and take home a beautiful piece of art by one of their prestigious members. Buy a $400 ticket and at midday on 7 August, the first ticket is drawn. That ticket holder has the first choice of any painting in the exhibition, and so on until all tickets are drawn. Call 9955 5752 or email lavender@royalart. com.au for info and to buy tickets.
CHRISTMAS SNOWFLAKE
BEARS IN KIRRIBILLI!
CHRISTMASCOLLECTIONSNOWFLAKE
Join local Rugby League legends, the North Sydney Bears, at the Kirribilli Markets on the 23 July for a day of footy fun. There's lots planned including a big screen showing all the excitement of The Bears' games, a team of representatives from the NRL and a bunch of Bears players all ready to meet and greet the crowd. So make sure to come along to say hi and show your support for the Red and Blacks as they continue their bid to bring this historic team back to the NRL.
ICE SKATING IN NORTH SYDNEY
Head to the Greenwood Hotel for the annual Snow Festival. There's plans for a skating rink as well as food and drink specials greenwoodhotel. com
WHAT’S ON
AUGUST
THURSDAY NIGHT MEAT RAFFLE AT THE BLUES POINT HOTEL
Enjoy some meat tray love at the Bluey and support the Blues Point Yacht Club by buying a ticket at the weekly draw. You'll be in line for the cash jackpot too. Got to be in it to win it! bluespointhotel.com.au
7
THIS IS ELVIS – BEN PORTSMOUTH AT NORTHS CAMMERAY
Renowned as the best Elvis tribute in the world, Ben Portsmouth returns to Australia to commemorate the 45th anniversary of Elvis’ death and celebrate the career and music of The King of Rock’n’Roll. Doors open at 3.15pm and tickets are $59. Head to norths.com.au to book. Don't miss out!
27TH KIRRIBILLI GENERAL AND FASHION MARKETS
Packed with stylish stalls and artisanmade products. From 8.30am-3pm, Burton Street Tunnel, Milsons Point.
WHOLE FISH FRIDAYS
No need to fish around! Find your favourite buddy as Foys Kirribilli have the perfect Friday lunch or dinner sorted with the return of Whole Fish Fridays. Enjoy a rotation of market fresh sustainable fish for two, served with sides for only $64 members or $68 non-members. Head to foyskirribilli.com.au to book your table today.
12+13
SPACEY JANE LIVE
Indie rockers Spacey Jane bring their second album Here Comes Everybody to the Big Top at Luna Park for two nights only. Head to bigtopsydney.com/spaceyjane for more information.
6
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.
F45 WINTER WARMER READER OFFER!
Mention 'northsider' when you join the F45 North Sydney community and train during the whole of Winter for just $50 per week! Contact northsydney@f45training.com.au for more information. T&Cs apply
DATE FOR THE DIARY! SUNDAY 4TH SEPTEMBER
Don't miss the Coal Loader Artisans Market, taking place from 9am on the first Sunday of the season. Up to 100 emerging and contemporary designers, artists and makers will be presenting their work for purchase including art, ceramics, sculpture, basketry, jewellery, furniture and more northsydney.nsw.gov.au
EMPOWERMENT Knowledge is
Thinking about separation or divorce? Gabriella Arvanitis, Partner at The Norton Law Group Family Lawyers, shares her advice on first steps…
I’m passionate about assisting separating couples find resolution at one of the most difficult times in their lives. My priority is empowering clients with knowledge to help them make decisions. Knowing what to do leading up to, and following, separation, and developing an action plan, helps to move forward with greater control.”
Access legal advice
Money matters
If you have a joint bank account, protect that money. If you withdraw funds, make a note of how they’re spent as it may be considered later. Open your own bank account and pay your earnings into it as soon as possible.
Update your documents
Every family situation is different so seek specialist family law advice as soon as possible. This ensures you’re aware of all legal avenues available to you and hopefully enable an agreement to be reached without going to Court. Getting early legal advice saves you time and money as you’ll create an action plan specific to your circumstances.
Immediate intervention
You may need urgent legal help with issues of domestic or family violence, if urgent spousal maintenance is required or urgent injunctive relief is needed to protect assets. We highly recommend using a specialist family lawyer. Get your paperwork in order
Compile legal and financial documents and keep them in one place. This includes your marriage certificate, copies of tax returns and bank statements, and documents relating to property and other assets. If you don’t have access to documents, don’t stress. Your family lawyer will help you get them.
Get in touch with your super and life insurance providers to let them know you’ve separated and nominate an alternate next of kin. This is vital, as if anything unfortunate happens, your entitlements could be paid to your ex. Estate planning is often forgotten during a separation. Update your Will and appoint an alternate executor and beneficiary if your current one lists your ex. This also applies to financial or medical Power of Attorneys.
Think about the children
Try not to discuss details about your separation in front of your children. Kids pick up on conflict and seeing you working together helps them remain calm and worry-free. l
FOR MIND AND BODY
As well as meeting room hire and a cosy library, there’s lots going on at neighbourhood hub, the Kirribilli Centre...
Fit for life
Meditation, yoga, Pilates, tai chi...there’s a fitness class to suit every ability. Whether you’re looking to improve your strength and balance, take part in a spot of chair yoga or step out to explore with the harbourside or bushwalking groups, on any day of the week there’s sure to be a class for you to try. Top tip! Classes fill up fast so bookings are essential to make sure you don’t miss out.
Brain training!
The Kirribilli Centre has a range of activities to keep the brain as active as the body. From the Yarn On A Stick knitting group to the writer’s class, and new Scrabble and Scones meetings, you’ll always find something to get the grey matter ticking over. The centre also has a lending library packed with fiction and non-fiction titles.
It’s play time Live locally in a unit or don’t have much space in the garden? Treat the littlies to a trip to the beautiful covered outdoor play area, complete with cubby house and a toy shed full of goodies! Head to thekirribillicentre.org for info
THE KIRRIBILLI CENTRE
Winter citrus tipples
Cold weather brings citrus so look out for the first of Maria River Distillery’s Winter tiny batch releases when you’re at the Northside Product Market. Last year they created a very limited Mandarincello. You’ll have to get in quick so you don’t miss out!
The sweetest cruelty free treats
Kindness Cakes is a local north shore baker specialising in delicious vegan bakes with secret oozy fillings! Choose from indulgent plant-based creations that include flavour combinations such as coffee caramello, white chocolate and passionfruit, chocolate and raspberry and a divine double choc. Find them at the Kirribilli Markets or online at facebook.com/
Kindnesscakesvegan/
Foodie news
Local eats and treats
IT’S TIME TO PARTY!
Events and get togethers are back! And the talented team at Charlie and Franks are here to help. Whether it’s a family party or corporate function, there’s something on their menu to suit. Think seared Wagyu beef with truffle mayo, beetroot crostini with mint yoghurt, and betel leaf with spiced chicken, mint, coriander and lime. Yum! You can organise sweet treats and celebration cakes too charlieandfranks.com.au
Pie me up!
Ryan Broomfield of Broomfield Pies has learnt his craft from the besthis brother Neil is Britain’s most awarded pie man. Broomfield Pies have a moreish rich pastry surrounding fine fillings such as slow braised Wagyu beef with roast garlic and onion gravy and roast Bannockburn free-range chicken, baby leeks, white wine and English mustard cream. Find them at the Northside Produce Market.
Bella Italia
It’s a big cheers to chef Juri and Jennifer at local foodie fave, Via Della Spiga. The pair are celebrating seven years of serving up traditional Italian hospitality at their ever popular restaurant in North Sydney.
A recent BTB special - warrigal falafels seasoned with a native based za’atar and served on a lemon aspen yoghurt with spiced chilli oil and an heirloom tomato salad
LOCAL FLAVOUR
northsider meets Daniel Backhouse, the Kirribilli chef serving up bush tucker for breakfast
You can always expect the unexpected when café BTB Kirribilli unveil their latest seasonal menu. From a sprinkle of lemony green ants on your salad to a side of sautéed warrigal greens with your perfectly poached eggs or a cup of house-blended aromatic wattleseed chai, Head Chef Daniel Backhouse and the BTB team are dedicated to creating innovative, experimental dishes that hero Indigenous ingredients.
“WE’RE FOCUSED ON SHARING OUR LOVE OF NATIVE AUSTRALIAN PRODUCE AND SUSTAINABLE FARMING”
“We’re focused on sharing our love of native Australian produce and sustainable farming,” Daniel tells northsider. “We love the idea of sharing some of the oldest foods in the world and showcasing these ingredients to a wider audience. So while there’s some classic café fare on the menu, each dish will incorporate a native ingredient in some element.”
“I love to put a spin on familiar dishes, whether that be making mortadella using emu or serving shaved cherry ice on a summer granola,” he continues.
Daniel’s kitchen career started out when he was a child, helping his mum at her catering business. He became a kitchen hand at high school before going on to work in several of Sydney’s fine dining restaurants.
“I opened my own restaurant in 2016, which is where I developed an interest in native produce,” he says. “After selling up, I joined BTB and for the past three years I’ve been able to work alongside others who are just as enthusiastic about using native produce as I am.”
The whole team is involved in recipe creation.
“We taste the native ingredients and try to find a non-native flavour equivalent,” Daniel explains. “For example, native thyme has a similar flavour to mint, so we’ll think of flavours that work well with mint and integrate the native ingredients that way. While one person might come up with an idea of how to use an ingredient, someone else might suggest a complementary flavour.”
This Winter, Daniel’s got some ingenious Indigenous menu additions planned.
“For a recent special, one of our chefs came up with a crocodile chorizo sausage that will be making a return in a beans dish,” he says. “We’ve been working on a native curry where we make the paste using mostly native spices. And there’s a vegan wattleseed dulce de leche which is delicious…”
“We’ve also been trying to source some native yams. They were such an integral part of the Indigenous Australian population’s diet, it would be great to work with them as a native substitute for potatoes.”
“We’re very lucky we have adventurous customers,” Daniel smiles. “They’re just willing to try whatever we throw at them!” l
Clockwise from above: BTB (By The Bridge) Kirribilli’s kitchen team, Daniel Backhouse, Toby Cutler and Jonathan Chan; the recent emu mortadella sandwich with house ricotta, anise myrtle mustard, date relish; a Summer cherry ripe granola with coconut, wattleseed yoghurt, rosella cherry jelly and granita.
WINTER
warmer
Local foodie, TV presenter and cookbook author Will Stewart is currying favour with this recipe...
One of my favourite local haunts is Nilgiri’s iconic Indian restaurant opposite the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace in Cremorne.
Chef Ajoy’s food is outstanding and is complemented by the team’s wonderfully warm hospitality. It definitely should be on your go to list to try if you’ve never been!
Warming Indian spices are the inspiration for my Winter recipe. You can make this dish vegan-friendly really easily by using smoky, charred eggplants, potatoes, or even large field mushrooms to replace the lamb, and switching the meat-based stock for a vegetable alternative. Serve with some homemade or store-bought naan and steamed rice.
Wishing you all a warm Winter,
Lots of love Will x
SLOW COOKED LAMB SHANK CURRY WITH COCONUT AND FRESH TOMATOES
SERVES: 4
TAKES: 3.5 HOURS
INGREDIENTS:
4 lamb shanks
2 brown onions, thinly sliced
6 cloves of garlic, thinly sliced
4 long chillies – red, green or a mix – thinly sliced
5cm piece of ginger, thinly sliced
1kg fresh tomatoes, roughly chopped
1 bunch of fresh coriander,
roughly chopped including the stalks
1 cinnamon stick
1 tbsp coriander seeds, crushed
½ tsp of turmeric
1 tsp cumin
5 cardamom pods
12 fresh curry leaves
1/3 cup of desiccated coconut
270ml coconut cream (small can)
250ml chicken stock (you can also use veg or veal stock)
2 tbsp tomato paste
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
GARNISH:
Fresh coriander, leaves picked
Freshly chopped chillies (if you prefer a bit more heat)
METHOD:
• In a large pot with a lid, heat some olive oil over a high heat. Brown the lamb
Got a cooking question, local recommendation or idea you’d like to see me rustle up in the northsider kitchen? Drop me a line at hello@northsider. com.au!
shanks all over until golden. Remove the shanks and set aside.
• Add some more oil to the pot and reduce the heat to medium and add in the onions. Cook until they begin to colour then add in the sliced ginger, sliced chillies and sliced garlic and cook for 2-3 minutes.
• Put the lamb shanks back into the pot with the onion mixture and then add the cinnamon stick, turmeric, cardamom pods, crushed coriander seeds, cumin, curry leaves and desiccated coconut and cook for a further 2 minutes.
• Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped coriander then pour in the stock
and coconut cream and bring to the boil. Cover with the lid, reduce the heat to low and cook for 2.5 hours.
• Remove the lid and the lamb shanks and set aside. Remove the cinnamon stick and using a stick blender, blitz the mixture to your preferred consistency. Reduce the mixture over a medium heat until it has thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
• To serve, place a shank on each plate and spoon over the sauce. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves and additional chillies if you like a bit more heat. Enjoy with some steamed rice or homemade naan to mop up all that delicious sauce.
Talking Dentistry
This winter Dr Andrew See talks restorative and implant dentistry. He combines passion, artistic flair and extensive knowledge of dentistry to answer any questions you may have and has advanced training in aesthetic and implant dentistry.
Patient question:
“Most of my teeth are loose and I’ve lost a lot of bone around them. I’ve been told I can only have a denture, but are there any other options?”
Dr See says: Fantastic question. Severe bone loss around teeth is difficult to treat and often you may need to start thinking about life after losing those teeth. Losing a lot of teeth can impact function, aesthetics and general wellbeing because the diet is often limited from a nutritious diet to a soft, mushy diet.
Dentures have been around since 700 BC! It is definitely an option to replace missing teeth and one that is still often used as a temporary option. Modern dental implants as we know it is nothing new as the first one placed was in 1965. In situations where extensive bone loss has occurred, bone grafting is required which will extend the healing period. So to your point, you may require extensive bone grafting when most of your teeth have bone loss.
However, there is a treatment concept called All-on-4®. This is a full arch of teeth, fixed onto a minimum of 4 dental implants and provides immediate results that was created to avoid bone grafting, so bone loss isn’t a barrier to treatment with this option. Patients can walk away with a new set of teeth within two days.
Let’s look at a recent case that we completed with All-on-4® implant treatment.
Eva came to see us because she was embarrassed by her teeth, experienced pain and was worried that her front teeth were so loose that they would fall out at any moment. She worked in a people facing, management role and felt that her teeth were affecting her confidence. Eva wanted quick results to achieve healthier and more beautiful looking teeth. After careful diagnosis and planning, All-on-4® implant treatment was performed and she now says she can’t believe she waited so long to get it done.
THE PROBLEMS
• Loose, broken, painful and infected teeth and gums.
• Spontaneous draining pus out of her gums.
• Discoloured and uneven teeth that created large gaps.
THE SOLUTION
• Removal of all teeth that had hopeless prognosis.
• All-on-4® implant treatment with Nobel Biocare implants.
• Full arch of new, fixed teeth within 2 days of the procedure.
Advanced qualifications and experience ensured that we achieved the results that Eva wanted. Visit www.advanced dentistrysydney.com.au/all-on-4 for more information and watch our All-On-4® patient video at www.advanced dentistrysydney.com.au/eva
DR ANDREW SEE BDS Hons (Syd), FRACDS, MSc(Lond), PGDipDentImplantology, FCGDENT(UK), FICOI, MFDS RCSEng
HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT?
Dr Andrew See has dedicated the last 19 years to Aesthetic Dentistry and has unique qualifications in cosmetic dentistry and rehabilitation. This includes a 3-year Masters in Aesthetic Dentistry from the prestigious King’s College London and a Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Implantology.
Dr See completed his Fellowship by primary and secondary examinations for The Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (FRACDS). FRACDS is the mark of professional achievement in dentistry and demonstrates attainment of an advanced level and skill in Dentistry.
FORWARD! Best foot
It’s strictly ballroom for Robert Lopez, one of the locals taking part in this year’s Stars of The North performance…
Sequins and dance shoes at the ready! After a three-year hiatus, the Cancer Council’s fun-fundraiser Stars of the North is back. On the 24 June, twelve enthusiastic north shore locals will be lighting up the main stage at Norths Cammeray to show off their newly learned shimmies, spot turns and chassés.
One of the locals taking part is Norths Collective’s Robert Lopez. A northsider all his life and the son of late Mosman mayor, Dom Lopez, Robert is stepping on to the dancefloor in memory of his parents.
“I lost Mum to cancer when I was 14 and Dad when I was 27 so I know how
“I’VE PERFORMED MANY A CHICKEN DANCE, NUTBUSH AND MACARENA AT WEDDINGS OVER THE YEARS...”
hard it is for those who lose loved ones, especially at a young age,” Robert says.
Partnered with teacher, Lauren Choukri of Dance Soul Sydney in Cremorne, ballroom beginner Robert has been hard at work perfecting the American Foxtrot, something he’d never attempted before April this year.
“I’ve performed many a chicken dance, Nutbush and macarena at weddings over the years,” Robert explains. “But up until now, that’s been about the extent of my dancing experience, other than my wedding dance of course!”
“At the first lesson I just thought ‘how on earth am I going to learn that?!’” he laughs.
But after buying dance shoes, choosing music and deciding on a costume, Robert’s confidence began to grow under Lauren’s expert tuition.
Four weeks into training, the reality of the challenge set in. “I was definitely feeling the nerves growing at that stage,” Robert says. “Getting my memory and co-ordination to work together was a concern!”
Stepping out!
Lauren and Robert in the dance studio getting to grips with the American Foxtrot.
But after eight lessons, Robert had mastered his steps and was feeling optimistic about his star turn.
“The end finally felt achievable,” he says.
Robert’s in-person practise with Lauren came to an end a few weeks before the event itself, thanks to a Covid-delayed trip to Europe. But despite being overseas, Robert was committed to perfecting his steps. He packed his dance shoes and was hard at work in hotel rooms running through his routine every day.
With show time imminent, Robert is ready to step on the dance floor. “I can’t believe it all came together,” he says. “I’m feeling nervous but confident and can’t wait to get out on stage, entertain people and raise money for this amazing cause.” ●
Cancer Council Stars of the North takes place at Norths Cammeray on Friday 24 June. Doors open at 6pm. Tickets $150 including a three-course meal and welcome drink. Head to stars. cancercouncil.com.au/event/stars-of-north/home to buy tickets and sponsor Robert and the other stars taking part.
Professional dancer and choreographer Lauren Choukri and Norths Collective’s Robert Lopez
Rover reporter Ted the Puggle chats to two-yearold Benson the Bernese Mountain Dog, actors’ therapy o cer at Kirribilli’s Ensemble Theatre
‘I help them learn their lines!’
Ted: Hi Benson! What’s your job title at the Ensemble Theatre and what do you do?
Benson: I’m known as the actors’ therapy dog. I welcome the actors, they’re usually very nervous when the rehearsals begin, and I help them to learn their lines.
T: How long have you been doing your job and how did you get into this line of work?
B: I started coming to the theatre when I was only eight weeks old. I’m actually the sixth Bernese Mountain Dog my Dad has brought to The Ensemble Theatre. It sounds a bit cliché but this is what I was born to do.
T: What do you like best about work?
B: I guess I’m supposed to say that I love all the actors and that they’re the best bit, but to be honest, what I really love is the biscuits they give me. I’d say a good bikkie is the least I deserve considering everything I do supporting them all backstage.
The actors who have pets are the ones who understand me the best. Georgie Parker, who’s a very talented double gold Logie winner and has starred in lots of plays at the theatre, has cats. I live with two beautiful cats, so I completely understand the difficulties she endures. Georgie is a lovely lady.
T: Have you ever been on stage yourself? And if you did tread the boards, what would your dream role be and why?
B: Oh no, they wouldn’t trust me on the stage! There’s no Helpmann Award good enough for someone as talented as me anyway. I can’t sing very well but I love to dance, so maybe my dream role would be “I Hope I Get It” from A Chorus Line. While I’m not an actor, I am a Show Dog. I’ve shown twice at the Sydney Royal Easter Show and was given a lovely big blue ribbon because I came first in my age group.
A star turn On the left is me with Brooke Satchwell and on the right is me cuddling with Georgie Parker. Me and Jake Speer
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.
Keeping your cat happy
T: Do you have a favourite play or a favourite actor who comes to visit?
B: All of the plays at the Ensemble are brilliant of course! My favourite actor is Jake Speer. He loves cuddles and will be acting at the theatre again in September and I can’t wait.
T: I bet you get lots of pats!
B: I do and I love pats. But did I mention that I like biscuits more? Please make sure that you write that bit down about the biscuits Ted. It’s really very important everyone knows that.
T: Don’t worry Benson, I’ve got you. Biscuits are the best! My final question is arguably the most important. When you’re not enjoying bikkies, what’s your favourite food and why?
B: Chicken, rice, chicken, sweet potato, chicken, kale, chicken...oh, did I mention chicken?
T: Thanks for giving us an insight into your showbiz life Benson. Hope there’s lots of delicious biscuits heading your way!
Left: Me backstage at the Ensemble Theatre, probably thinking about biscuits. Above: Me on the red carpet with my dad, David, the theatre’s Chief Financial Officer, and Charlotte from Marketing with my brother Harrison. I’M
As more of our feline friends live in urban environments, especially apartments, it’s important we consider how best to keep indoor cats happy and healthy. There are many ways to enrich the feline environment. Here’s some of my top tips:
• Each cat should be able to move freely around its home, including climbing.
• There should be plenty of places to hide.
• A scratching post should be available.
• Toys should be regularly rotated/replaced and should include interactive toys to provide stimulation.
• Each cat should be able to choose warmer or cooler areas within the home.
• There should be a litter box for each cat, plus one extra. Litter boxes should be located in well ventilated areas and kept scrupulously clean. If there’s more than one level to the home, then a litter tray should be available on each floor. Keep the type of litter used constant.
• Each cat should have its own food and water bowls, not located next to each other.
• Hunting behaviour can be mimicked by hiding food and using interactive feeders.
• Finally, the use of synthetic pheromones that mimic the cat’s facial pheromones can help reduce anxiety and stress. ● @petmedicalmilsonspoint
Visit petmedicalmilsonspoint.com.au or call 8203 4390 or at 28 Alfred St, Milsons Point (Opp. Bradfield Park).
PUZZLES with Quizmaster Clay
1. Which 1988 Kylie Minogue music video clip begins with a harbour scene in McMahons Pt?
2. Who was the Prime Minister of Australia when the Harbour Bridge was opened? Joseph Lyons, Robert Menzies or Billy Hughes?
3. Which famous Australian Hollywood actor attended Shore school in 1926?
4. When did Labor last win the federal seat of North Sydney?
5. Which famous Australian architect designed Blues Point Tower?
6. What is the name of the 33m harbourside pool on the western side of Cremorne Point?
7. Did Luna Park open in 1935, 1945 or 1955?
8. Which 5 lower north shore suburbs have the postcode 2065?
9. Carradah Park sits on which bay?
10. In what year did the Coal Loader Platform open as public open space - 2015, 2017 or 2018?
SUDOKU Slot the numbers 1 to 9 into every horizontal line, vertical row and 3 x 3 square. 5 2 9 8 7 7 9 8 1 2 7 6 1 4 1 9 6 2 8 1 9 7 2 3 4 7 5 3 8
The Royal Art Society of NSW presents
2022 Art Ballot Exhibition and Auction
Packed with beautiful paintings by the members of the Royal Art Society of NSW, the annual ballot fundraiser gives everyone the opportunity to take home an original piece of Australian art. Ballot tickets cost $400 and are available at the Lavender Bay Gallery. Every person purchasing a ticket will choose a painting at the ballot on Sunday 7th August.
Art Ballot Viewing Times
Mon - Fri 10am to 4pm
Sat - Sun 11am to 4pm
First viewing Sat 2nd July
Last viewing Sat 6th August
SUPPORT LOCAL
You can’t buy happiness. But you can support local. And that’s kind of the same thing
COME IN AND SAY HELLO!
Top row from left: New and Aleesha from the blissful Sitara Thai Massage and Spa in McMahons Point are helping keep us northsiders relaxed and flexible!; got a tech problem you need help with? Louise, Rowdy the dog and the clever team at the I.T. Lady are here to help in their brand new offices in Milsons Point; leading nutritionist in women’s health and menopause, Angela from Nutritional Matters on Hayes Street, Neutral Bay, is here to empower women about diet, health and wellbeing. Bottom row from left: Say ciao to Jennifer and Juri at Via Della Spiga, North Sydney and tuck in to an authentic pizza and slow-cooked ragu served with a side order of Italian hospitality; a big northsider welcome to Sam and Alberto who are baking up a storm at Fiore Bread on Blues Point Road, McMahons Point; say namaste or power up with a HIIT class at Yoga Moment on Hayes Street, Neutral Bay with Pam, Damien, Lara and Kylie.
The corner of Blues Point Road and French Street has been home to a pub since the early 1860s. The original hotel was built in 1864 and traded as the North Shore Hotel until 1932, when it was redesigned following a drop in trade after the opening of the harbour bridge. The current building was constructed in 1938 and was renamed the McMahons Point Hotel before becoming the Blues Point Hotel in 1973.
50 YEARS OF FRIENDSHIP
McMahons Point mates reunite to celebrate arriving on Blues Point Road over ve decades ago…
It might have been a grey and rainy afternoon outside, but the atmosphere inside the Blues Point Hotel was golden. Over 30 former and current locals had gathered to mark the anniversary of when they first met and were catching up over a schooner or two at their old local.
Back in 1970 many of the crowd had only just arrived in Sydney, having sailed to the Emerald City as Ten Pound Poms.
“Most of us were in our late teens, early twenties, and coming to Australia was a big adventure,” Mike Harrison, one of the reunion organisers, remembers.
“THE COMMUNITY AND THE VILLAGE ATMOSPHERE WAS SO IMPORTANT TO US WHEN WE FIRST ARRIVED”
“We met on board the ship and when we arrived in Sydney, one of our mates met us and brought us to East Crescent Street where there were rooms to rent. We never thought we’d come here and live across from the harbour bridge!”
Cabin mates moved in together, meeting other new young locals from the UK, America and Ireland in the hallways of their digs and, of course, at the local pub, the Bluey, or the McMahons Point Hotel as it was then.
“The community and village atmosphere was so important to us when we first arrived,” Mike remembers. “We were a long way from home, and that goes for a lot of the Aussies too, who were from Queensland or WA.”
“McMahons Point was a sleepy little place back then and we took it over,” Peter Caley, another reunion organiser says. “Blues Point was where it all really happened! There was a sense of freedom,” he continues. “There was
Cheers to mates!
There were lots of laughs to catch up on at the 50 year reunion, which had been delayed for two years due to Covid.
nobody telling you that you couldn’t do things. We all encouraged each other.”
As well as evenings at the pub, the gang planned parties, day trips and even a stage show called Just For A Laugh, which played to packed audiences every week.
“We all had great fun organising things,’ Peter continues. “We’d never have dreamed of doing something like the comedy show back in the UK. We just had total freedom to do what we wanted to do.”
The Blues Point Hotel acted as their unofficial lounge room and a few drinks at the pub would often kick on to the now departed Grape Escape wine bar, which was situated on Blues Point Road, or to parties back on East Crescent Street.
Friendships were cemented, romances blossomed and the mates supported each other as they all flourished into their new Australian way of life.
Over the years, the crowd went their separate ways, but Facebook, email and Messenger have made it easier than ever to keep in touch and organise get togethers.
“It was so good the reunion was able to happen,” Mike says. “We’re already planning the next one!” ●
Above: five of the Ten Pound Poms who met en route to Australia, including reunion organiser Mike Harrison, far right.
Local’s last word.
Christina, Ross and their two kids live in Cammeray
Our favourite place for coffee is…Ellie May’s Nook. They do the best oat flat white and chicken sandwich. The staff are always super friendly and getting to cuddle Ellie May’s gorgeous puppy is a bonus!
The best meal I’ve had in the area was at…Toriciya. It felt like we were back in Japan when in fact, we were five minutes from home. If we want a beer or a wine, we go to…Norths. It’s difficult having a quiet drink with two energetic kids, so Norths is a great place to meet friends after daycare. The kids’ fish and chips is a winner and the adults catch up over a beer or two. Our favourite local walk is…around the streets of Cammeray. Raising two kids in the area during two years
If we’ve got guests in town, we’ll take them to…
Balmoral Beach or
Clifton Gardens. We feel lucky every day to live so close to these beautiful spots.
of the pandemic, we walked these streets everyday. One minute we’re walking past big beautiful houses then the next we’re surrounded by bushland or beside the harbour.
Our fave local takeaway is…Johnny Bird. I get the fried chicken thighs, kale
salad and gravy. Only a ‘sometimes’ meal but it never disappoints!
My ideal day in the area would consist of…grabbing some supplies from Hudson Meats, having a BBQ at home then heading to a Bears game. The secret spot we love to go to is…poolside at our unit block! We have the best group of neighbours and could easily eat and drink for hours in the garden while the kids run around us!
The things about living in this area we love the most are…the people, the sense of community and being a stone’s throw from the city.
The three words I’d use to describe this area are... friendly, tight-knit, hidden gem. Does that count as five words?!
