Foggy Sydney Harbour in 1939
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Welcome to Winter northsiders!
We’re so excited to be warming up the season with our latest issue, jam packed with local love, hidden gems and familiar faces. Did you know you can also find all of our back issues online?
Simply pull on your cosiest jumper, pour yourself a mug of something warm and head to northsider.com.au to find them.
Happy reading!
ART DIRECTOR: Belinda Spillane Anna Gordon EDITOR hello@northsider.com.au
ACCOUNT MANAGER: Megan Ratcliffe Advertising enquiries: megan@northsider.com.au
The Survivor Hub’s local founder, Brenda Lin
The power of community
How a northsider is rede ning support for survivors across Australia
This feature discusses sexual assault. If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). To learn more or get involved with The Survivor Hub, visit thesurvivorhub.org.au
Strong, determined and driven by purpose, North Sydney local Brenda Lin is helping people across Australia turn pain into power. As a co-founder of the charity The Survivor Hub, she’s part of a team leading a growing network of survivor-led support groups which give those impacted by sexual assault safe spaces where connection, community and empowerment take centre stage.
“In NSW, our organisation is the only organisation that offers peer support or group support that is open to all survivors
and their allies aged 16 and over,” Brenda tells northsider. “As a survivor myself, The Survivor Hub is the place I wish existed when I first needed support. Finding connection with others who can relate is critical to the healing journey.”
Brenda’s story is one that shocked the nation. While on an overseas school trip in 2009, the then 15 year old discovered via Facebook that her father Min, mother Lily, younger brothers Henry and Terry, and her aunt Irene, had been murdered in the family’s North Epping home.
Brenda was placed in the care of her aunt, Kathy, and uncle, Robert Xie, for two years, before Xie was arrested and charged with the murders. During the trial, Brenda revealed that her uncle had also been sexually abusing her. In 2017, Robert Xie was found guilty and sentenced to five consecutive life terms in prison.
“WE’RE TAKING BACK CONTROL AND REWRITING THE STORY AND THAT’S INCREDIBLY EMPOWERING” >>
LOCAL LEGEND
Out of this unimaginable trauma, Brenda forged a fierce determination to rewrite the way survivors of sexual assault find support to help empower others.
In 2021, she connected with her three Survivor Hub co-founders, who all have lived experience of sexual assault, including friend Anna Coutts-Trotter, daughter of Federal Minister Tanya Plibersek.
“When the four of us got together, those moments were magical,” Brenda says. “We’re from different backgrounds, have different interests and careers, but we intimately understand each other. When you meet someone else who’s been through it, it’s like a spark. It’s a very powerful connection.”
United by a deep understanding of how isolating trauma can be, the four women began building The Survivor Hub as a free community for survivors, by survivors. From the beginning, they focused on creating safe, peer-led meet-ups where people could be seen, heard and believed.
Four years on, Brenda and her co-founders have established 15 peer support locations across five states. They have supported over 1,000 survivors to date, including a number in rural areas where wait times for counselling can stretch to six months.
Each meet-up is run by trained volunteers who are also survivors. They are supported, trained and mentored to lead with empathy and care. “Many of our volunteers have also been participants,” Brenda says. “They know what it feels like to walk into a room and talk about something so intimate. They’ve lived it and now they’re helping others heal. We’re taking back control and rewriting the story and that’s incredibly empowering.”
“THEY’VE LIVED IT AND NOW THEY’RE HELPING OTHERS HEAL”
Participants can share as much or as little as they like, with conversations ranging from practical tips for going to court to different therapy options to starting relationships and navigating intimacy after assault. A psychologist and a social worker are on site if their support is needed.
The hub’s online forums have also flourished, with members contributing to a private, moderated Facebook group. “People can vent, share wisdom and encourage others,” Brenda explains. “And it’s also anonymous if they want it to be.”
Brenda’s tireless work was recently recognised when she was named the Westfield Local Hero for Chatswood, an honour voted for by the community, which also secured a $20,000 grant for The Survivor Hub.
And in April this year, their first support group on the north shore opened in Chatswood, a location especially close to Brenda’s heart.
“I grew up on the north shore and I used to go to Chatswood with my mum every week,” she says. “I love living in this area and being able to bring this service to my local community feels like giving something back.
Brenda Lin at The Survivor Hub’s third birthday celebration, and right, receiving the Westfield Local Hero prize for Chatswood.
The response has been so positive. It’s great to have something ‘over the bridge’ for people that’s accessible and familiar.”
Brenda knows first hand how peer support can change lives and has received feedback from others about their experiences too.
“One participant emailed us after their first session to say they were so nervous they sat in the car wondering if they should go in,” Brenda recalls. “But as soon as they walked through the door, they felt welcome, safe, included. That’s exactly what we aim to do.”
Behind the scenes, Brenda continues to work on furthering the not-for-profit while also finishing her PhD in criminology at the University of Sydney.
“We’d love help from anyone who wants to get involved,” she says. “There’s space for everyone whether it’s setting up a new meet up, fundraising or spreading the word about what we do. We need help with flyer drops, baking for meet-ups…so do get in touch! There’s always ways to help.”
Despite the emotional toll this work can take, Brenda finds strength in the community she’s helping to build. “I still have bad days,” she says. “But I’ve got a great support network, people who ‘get it’. And when I step
back and see how far we’ve come, the number of people who’ve attended The Survivor Hub, it gives me hope. It makes it all worth it.”
When asked what her younger self would say if she could see herself now - a founder, advocate, graduate and PhD candidateBrenda smiles. “I think she’d say, ‘No way is that possible.’ I was sometimes struggling just to get through the day but you can achieve a lot over time with dedication, persistence and the right people around you. I’ve lost my family, but this beautiful community is a family to me.”
Looking ahead, Brenda’s dream is to make The Survivor Hub a household name.
“I want meet-ups everywhere,” she says. “So that if someone wakes up and needs support, they can find it. No waiting, just sign up and attend a meet up that same day.”
And to anyone reading who might be hesitant to seek support, Brenda has a message: “You are courageous. You’ve made it this far and that’s incredible. When you’re ready, there’s a community of survivors waiting for you. We’re right behind you. You’re not alone.” l thesurvivorhub.org.au
Anna Coutts-Trotter, left, and Brenda Lin, two of the founders of The Survivor Hub
Colour, Sound, Lore
Conductor David Robertson
Soloists William Barton, Christian Li
AYO’s triumphant return from its European tour!
Homecoming Concert Australian Youth Orchestra
31 July, 8pm Sydney Opera House
A World of Art
• Classes • Paint ‘n Sip • Workshops • Events
✔ Kids’ Birthday pARTies!
✔ Kids Afterschool and School Holiday classes
✔ Paint ‘n Sip Events and Weekend Workshops
✔ Adults classes that allow you to ‘create and meditate’
✔ Family Fun - join in over School Holidays or Weekend Workshops
✔ Art Therapy
• Art Therapy & more… (coming soon)
✔ Private Paint ‘n Sip pARTiescorporate groups, adult birthdays, baby showers & more!
David Robertson appears courtesy of Opus 3 Artists
PHYSIO FOR
Neutral Bay’s Movement 101 is changing the way locals think about injury, mobility and recovery
Whether you’re a weekend warrior with a knee twinge, a new mum navigating postnatal recovery, someone looking to rebuild strength after surgery or a northsider wanting to move more freely and feel stronger, Movement 101 is here to help.
The Military Road physiotherapy clinic doesn’t just focus on treating immediate aches and pains. The team believe in treating the whole person, supporting the body through every phase of recovery and providing tailored education to prevent future issues.
“We don’t believe in a quick fix,” explains Shanice Gabriel, Senior Physiotherapist, Women’s Health Physiotherapist and Assistant Manager at Movement 101 Neutral Bay. “We look at how your whole
body functions - how you move, your habits, your goals - and we build a personalised program that helps you not only to recover but to thrive. Our goal is to guide every client through their entire recovery journey so they come out stronger, fitter and with skills they can use for life.”
At Movement 101 Neutral Bay, you’ll find a team of passionate physiotherapists offering services from sports injury rehab and women’s health to paediatric physio and clinical Pilates. The modern clinic includes a well-equipped gym, clinical Pilates studio and private treatment rooms, all designed to support movement, strength and recovery.
“We have clients who come to us after surgery or injury but stay on because they realise how much better they feel when they’re moving regularly and moving well,” Shanice continues. “It’s incredibly rewarding to help someone go from pain or frustration to feeling strong, capable and in control of their body again.”
So whether you’re training for a marathon, keeping up with your kids or wanting to future-proof your body, Movement 101 has the tools, expertise and encouragement to help you succeed every step of the way.
Louenhide Aspen Shoulder Bag, $89 Rapture Living
Blues Point
McMahons Point
these treasures just around the corner...
Pomodoro Ceramics Range
Rapture Living 150 Blues Point Road, McMahons Point
House of Nunu Mini Carafe & Cup Set - Blue, $89.95 The Hunted Cammeray Square 450 Miller St, Cammeray
Sunflower Bouquet, $65 Flower Train Metro Level, Greenwood Plaza 36 Blue St, North Sydney
Balm Me, Feet, Hand & Body Balm, 100mL, $39 KooE Online at KooE.com.au
Goodness Kitchen Choc Bites Cherry/Dark Choc, $9.75 Supamart IGA Cremorne 287-305 Military Rd, Cremorne READER OFFER!
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry Mention northsider for $5 discount - only $29.99! Blues Point Bookshop 148 Blues Point Road, McMahons Point
Archie Archie Archie Pink tote bag $29.95
Art Gallery NSW Art Gallery Road, The Domain or shop.artgallery.nsw.gov.au
Fire Pit Dakota Rust, 59cm, $199 Honeysuckle Garden 500 Military Rd, Mosman or honeysucklegarden.com.au
Big Top Knit Cushion Cover, $59 Casa Amaria 41 Ridge St, North Sydney
WINTER ADVENTURE
Indoor skydiving meets virtual reality for the ULTIMATE ALL-IN-ONE FAMILY DAY OUT! SYDNEY’S MOST EPIC
BOREDOM? NEVER HEARD OF IT.
With the colder months just around the corner, Sydney’s most epic day out is waiting in Penrith, and it’s anything but ordinary.
Kick off the fun with iFLY Indoor Skydiving Downunder, where kids as young as three can experience the thrill of flight in Australia’s largest indoor skydiving wind tunnel. Just ask 12-year-old Sophie: “I felt like a superhero!” And her brother Matt? “Watching her take off was unreal.”
“IT’S
SAFE, CONFIDENCE - BUILDING AND HONESTLY, JUST PURE JOY. WE’LL NEVER FORGET IT”
Then, step next door into the mind-blowing world of FREAK VR. Battle aliens, race through futuristic cities or team up to save the universe, this is next-level family fun. “It was like stepping into a different world,” Matt said. “We laughed the whole time.”
For mum Jessie, the combo was unbeatable. “It’s safe, confidence-building and honestly, just pure joy. We’ll never forget it.”
With both experiences in one easy-to-reach location, this is Sydney’s top pick for an action-packed, memorymaking family day out.
FLY, LAUGH, PLAY, REPEAT — ALL IN ONE AFTERNOON.
Book your winter adventure now at iFLY.com.au and FREAKVR.com.au
Volunteer and make a difference at the Neutral Bay Community Centre
Acornerstone of the local community for over 50 years, the Neutral Bay Community Centre provides a welcoming space for connection, learning and support. With over 500 members, the Centre offers a wide range of programs and activities, all delivered thanks to a dedicated team of volunteers.
Now, there are some great opportunities for more locals to get involved!
The team at the NBCC is currently looking for volunteers to assist with one-on-one classes in basic IT skills, helping members build confidence in navigating new technology. They’re also keen to hear from anyone with online or social media skills who’d like
to help promote the Centre’s offerings.
So whether you’re techsavvy, community-minded or simply looking to give back, volunteering at the Neutral Bay Community Centre is a meaningful way to support local people and ensure this cherished hub continues to thrive. ●
Contact info@nbaycommunity.com.au today to find out more and get involved.
Neutral Bay Community Centre
ALL THE CHARITY
RIGHT MOVES!
The annual Stars Of The North dance showcase gives locals a time to shine
Fourteen brave dancefloor newbies have put their best foot forward to take part in the 2025 Cancer Council Stars Of The North gala. Held at Norths Cammeray, the fun-fundraiser raises money for the charity while cha-chachallenging local legends to team up with professional dancers and spin out of their comfort zones and onto centre stage.
One of the stars who sashayed into the spotlight for this year’s event is Norths Collective’s Marketing Manager Hannah Morrissey, who put her heart and soul into every move.
“Becoming a Star is incredibly meaningful for me as cancer has profoundly affected my life,” Hannah says. “I have lost several family members to this devastating disease, including my Pop, who passed away in March, less than a month after his diagnosis. My Nan is now facing cancer for the second time in her life. Their experiences have ignited my passion to make a difference and support those currently fighting their own battles.”
“IT’S GIVEN ME THE CHANCE TO HONOUR HIM WHILE SUPPORTING A CAUSE THAT AFFECTS SO MANY”
“After losing my Pop, participating in Stars Of The North has been a way to channel my grief into something positive,” she continues. “It’s given me the chance to honour him while supporting a cause that affects so many. I feel incredibly proud, and a little emotional, being part of something that makes such a meaningful difference.”
Hannah has taken her fundraising commitment to new heights by choosing the challenging acrobatic discipline of pole dancing for her showcase. The physically demanding and empowering artform requires strength and precision and Hannah has embraced every spin, climb and hold to be in pole position for her performance.
“I chose pole dancing because it’s a great way to challenge people’s preconceived ideas and misconceptions,” she says. “It builds fitness and confidence and it’s one of the few times as an adult you get to learn a new skill, all while hanging upside down!”
Having taken up pole during lockdown as a fun way to pass time, Hannah admits learning choreography has been a new challenge. “I wouldn’t exactly call myself a dancer!” she says. “Remembering steps, staying on beat and trying not to fall - all at once...it’s been a real learning curve.”
Performing a mash-up of “Hey Mickey” and AC/DC’s “Thunderstruck”, Hannah’s
Best foot forward
routine started cute and playful before kicking into high gear, with teacher Jorgia Oliver by her side every step and spin of the way.
“For this performance, I’ve trained with Jorgia three times a week for around two hours,” Hannah continues. “It’s been intense, but also incredibly rewarding and Jorgia is supportive and always up for a laugh. She’s really encouraged me to bring my own flair to the routine and I’ve loved the challenge.”
From samba to swing, ballroom and jazz, every one of the 14 performances at the Stars Of The North gala is a tribute to loved ones lost and futures worth fighting for with sponsorship raising vital funds for cancer research, prevention programs and support services.
“I was excited - and also mildly terrified!to step out of my comfort zone and perform in front of a big crowd,” Hannah says. “But most of all, I was excited to be raising funds for such an important cause and doing something positive in honour of my Pop.”
The dazzling Stars Of The North show took place on the 31 May, just as we went to print with this edition of the magazine. Since its inception, the event has raised over $850,000 and shows the power of community coming together, one twirl at a time, to make a difference.
“I danced to honour my loved ones, to stand with those currently fighting and to ensure that no one has to face cancer alone,” Hannah says. “Every donation, big or small, brings us one step closer to changing lives.” ●
Fundraising for this year’s event is open until the end of June and donations can be made to Hannah and her fellow twinkle toed superstars at stars. cancercouncil.com.au/ event/stars-of-north/
Hannah Morrissey, top, and teacher Jorgia Oliver take pole position in a rehearsal; top right: Hannah at work at Norths Cammeray; right: Hannah’s much-loved Pop.
NORTHBRIDGE PLAZA’S
NEW ARRIVALS
From stylish threads to sharp cuts and great reads, there’s something for everyone.
Northbridge Plaza is excited to welcome three fabulous new stores to its vibrant retail community, each bringing something special to the centre for locals to enjoy.
Find your next favourite read Book lovers rejoice! BOOKFACE offers a curated collection of bestsellers, children’s favourites, recipe books, non-fiction and lots of unique gift options. With knowledgeable, welcoming staff, it’s the perfect place to browse and reconnect with the joy of reading.
Elevate your Winter wardrobe Chic, comfortable, and effortlessly stylish, Carolina Lifestyle blends Australian design with Colombian craftsmanship. Known for their luxe fabrics, versatile style staples and eye-catching accessories, the boutique helps women build wardrobes that are both practical and glamorous.
Smart cuts and smooth shaves
Gents, this one’s for you! Grooming is a cut above at Dapper and Boss, a premium barber lounge offering precision haircuts, shaves and styling. With expert barbers and quality products, every visit will leave you feeling confident and refreshed.
Shop local, feel good!
Convenience meets community at Northbridge Plaza. With complimentary parking for two hours, easy public transport access and over 40 retailers onsite, from high street names to local favourites, it’s the perfect neighbourhood shopping destination. There’s never been a better time to shop local, so whether you’re out for groceries or looking to discover something new, you’ll find plenty to love at Northbridge Plaza.l
For more information and updates on upcoming events, head to northbridgeplaza.com.au and follow @northbridgeplaza on social media.
L to R: Ck and Adam at Dapper and Boss; Carla at Carolina Lifestyle; Sasha and India at BOOKFACE.
Moments in time
Celebrate Northern Suburbs Rugby Club’s 125th birthday with these images from over the years...
It’s try time for a celebration as The Shoremen notch up 125 years of rugby union excellence on the North Shore. While records show that rugby union has been played locally since the late 19th century, the team officially kicked off in 1900 as a merger of the Pirates and the Wallaroos, before becoming the Northern Suburbs Rugby Club locals know and love today. The red and blacks have long been a powerhouse in the Shute Shield, taking out seven premierships, including 1975, then again in 2016, when they stormed to glory over Sydney University. The win had 12,500 fans roaring from the hill and the stands at their home ground of North Sydney Oval. In its long and proud history, Norths has produced 42 Wallaby representatives, including Al Baxter, who appeared 69 times for Australia and 121 times for the Waratahs. With the team still a force to be reckoned with, Saturdays are for The Shoremen for many years to come! ●
To mark the team’s 125th anniversary, players wore commemorative jerseys to the first home game, above, which were replicas of the original strip from 1900.
Say hello to
YOMOJO!
Affordable, easy and locally owned - discover the mobile service making waves in North Sydney
Looking for a mobile provider that doesn’t cost the earth or come with all the confusing fine print? Meet Yomojo, a proudly independent Aussie telco now under the leadership of Milsons Point local, James Linton. With mobile plans starting at just $9.95 per month thanks to a special six month half-price offer*, it’s never been easier - or cheaper - to stay connected.
Simple plans, serious value Gone are the days of waiting in line in store or being put on hold for hours on end. With Yomojo, everything is online and hassle-free. Signing up takes minutes, simply head to the Yomojo website, pick your plan and you’ll receive your e-SIM or your SIM card in no time. You can even keep your current number if you want. Too easy!
“We want to do mobile better for everyday Aussies,” James says. “It’s all about making
“WE TRY TO CUT THROUGH THE RED TAPE TO MAKE SURE OUR CUSTOMERS GET WHAT THEY WANT”
things simple. There’s no confusing menus, no tech jargon. Just clear info, fair prices and the freedom to manage your own account.
And if you do need help, Yomojo’s friendly and responsive customer service is another standout, with call wait times available on the website so you know just what to expect.
A local CEO and a North Sydney HQ James Linton’s family has been at the forefront of Australia’s technology and marketing sectors for generations. His paternal grandfather, Andrew Linton, led the Asia Pacific mainframe division for NCR in the 1960s, while his maternal grandfather, Bill Purdy, was head of marketing at Arnott’s Biscuits for nearly three decades.
His late father, John Linton, founded the internet service provider Exetel in 2004 after starting TPG’s internet business in 1995.
James joined Exetel during his uni breaks and worked his way up to become DirectorCorporate, helping grow the company to over 150,000 customers and $180 million in revenue.
Now, James brings his 18 years of industry experience to Yomojo, with ambitious plans to grow the business ahead of its 10th anniversary in November this year.
“I guess you could say telco is in my blood,” James says. “I grew up with the industry and I’ve seen how it’s changed, not always for the better. Mobile plans have gotten a lot more expensive and often quite confusing.”
“We believe in putting our customers’ needs first,” he continues. “And we try to cut through the red tape to make sure our customers get what they want – a great value service - without the hassle.”
No nonsense, no lock-ins and no hidden fees
Whether you’re a light user who just needs the basics, have a teen glued to TikTok or are on the hunt for a reliable service without the bill shock, Yomojo has a plan that fits your lifestyle. And the beauty of it? You can mix and match, upgrade, downgrade or pause any time.
Sign up for an Unlimited Talk and Text plan before 30 June and you’ll get up to six months at half price. If you transfer your current number across, you can bring the 8GB $19.90/month plan down to just $9.95/month. That’s less than a couple of flat whites.
$9.95 /MO From
50%
So if you’re ready to join the mobile movement based right here in North Sydney, give Yomojo a go. Your phone - and your wallet - will thank you.
Visit yomojo.com.au to explore plans from just $19.90/month, with up to six months half price right now. ●
HARBOUR HERITAGE
Take a glimpse back in time at two of the historic ferries that serviced the northside
The ferries in our cover image are the Kiandra and the Kosciusko, photographed travelling in fog in 1939. Two of 27 K-class ferries, they were built in 1911 by Sydney Ferries Limited to meet the boom in demand for services from the North Shore before the Harbour Bridge opened in 1932. These steam powered, double-ended craft could operate in either direction without having to turn around and were used for short cross-harbour trips such as between Circular Quay, Milsons Point,
Kirribilli and Mosman. The opening of the bridge saw passenger trip numbers decline from 40 million to 15 million and many of the K-class fleet were decommissioned. Kiandra survived and continued to sail until being sold and broken up in 1953. Kosciusko also survived and was kept in service and converted to diesel in the 1950s.
In 1975, she was towed to Hobart to assist with cross-Derwent travel following the Tasman Bridge disaster, before becoming a floating restaurant. ●
K-class ferries Kiandra, left, and Kosciusko
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Damaged Pipes: Repair or Replace?
When your pipes decay, become damaged or have tree roots burst through the sides it can be a costly and tedious task to fix. Josh Boesel from Total Relining Solutions answers some common questions about fixing up your drainage problems.
Is it worth repairing damaged pipes, or is it better to just replace them?
Replacing pipes is a very costly and time-consuming process. Thanks to new technology, a specialist plumber can repair them permanently for a fraction of the cost and often – the outcome is better.
What’s the difference in cost and disturbance to my property?
Digging up your drainage system would require extensive digging works and often causes damage to your landscaping and surfaces (concrete, decking, tiles). The job could take several days to weeks and the costs can add up very quickly into the tens of thousands. Whereas pipe relining can typically be completed in one day and needs no heavy machinery and no digging in most cases. At times we may need to dig a small entry hole which will be filled in upon completion. This means the work is much more costeffective and will cause very little disruption to the property.
Will a pipe liner last as long as new pipes?
A liner will extend the life of your existing pipes by 50 years. If it doesn’t we’ll replace it for free.
We’re committed to offering you the best price and will beat any quote while still providing you with the absolute best quality of service.
What does the process involve?
1 Your drain system is fully inspected to identify where the damage lies and if pipe relining is appropriate.
2 All blockages are then removed with a highpressure water blaster.
3 A flexible textile liner with a specialised epoxy resin is inserted into the drain.
4 The liner is then cured in-situ using our state of the art equipment.
5 On completion the new liner takes the shape and form of the host pipe permanently repairing the drain.
Ask us about our 50 year guarantee.
Founder and owner of Total Relining Solutions, Josh Boesel.
A SLICE OF
Discover the lunch spot in St Leonards where flavour is top of the menu
From melt-in-the-mouth bresola to earthy truffle, creamy mozzarella and slowed cooked meatballs made the way Nonna used to, every filling on the menu at focaccia and panini bar Red Lenny is amore at first bite.
The Chandos Street eatery opened its doors at the beginning of the year and is garnering a cult following among northsiders, who are flocking to treat themselves to the top-tier Italian comfort food.
“WHEN YOU SMELL THE PARMIGIANA, YOU’RE TRANSPORTED TO ITALY”
With a lifelong love for hospitality and feeding a crowd, chef and owner Emiliano Tassarotti and his team are plating up a tight, nine item lunch menu that’s packed with fresh produce and a lot of love.
“The idea is simple food, done well,” Emiliano says. “Three or four ingredients, but the best ingredients. When they’re good, you don’t need more. Our menu is simple but perfect.”
Think fluffy focaccia packed with prosciutto San Daniele, buffalo mozzarella, fresh tomato, basil pesto and basil; or double smoked ham, truffle, mushrooms, artichoke and Gorgonzola cream.
The paninis are crisp and golden and filled with goodies including housemade porchetta,
Red Lenny’s Emiliano
Tassarotti at the Chandos Street venue
ITALY
provolone, red cabbage and apple slaw and potato cream; or rich meatballs cooked in Napolitana sauce with Provolone cheese, grated Parmigiano and basil. And then there’s Emiliano’s favourites, the Wagyu bresola with rocket, Parmesan and lemon and the eggplant parmigiana with fiordilatte mozzarella, Parmesan and pesto.
“When you smell the parmigiana, you’re transported to Italy,” Emiliano enthuses. “Even for a few seconds, it’s like you’re there.”
Tassarotti’s passion for food goes back to his childhood growing up close to Rome, where big family meals were a way of life. “There were always 20 of us around the table which would be covered in plates of lasagna, parmigiana, arancini, meatballs…It was a celebration every time,” he remembers.
In 2002, Emiliano headed to London to learn his craft and explore the hospitality scene. There, he met his Australian wife and
L to R: Foccacia with double smoked ham, mushrooms and Gorgonzola cream; foccacia with prosciutto, mozzarella, tomato and pesto; the eggplant parmigiana panini and Red Lenny’s lasagna.
three years later, the pair had landed in Sydney. Emiliano opened the popular Italian restaurant, Vespa in Gladesville, which ran for ten years, and a coffee kiosk in Brookvale followed before he headed to St Leonards.
“When we saw this spot, we just knew it was the one for us,” he says. “It’s a beautiful area with beautiful people and a very friendly community.”
The name Red Lenny is a nod to the fire hose box out front of the venue - the Redcombined with a playful twist on St Leonards – the Lenny.
Open Monday to Saturday for brekkie, think eggs bene and delizioso Italian pastries and cakes, and lunch with $20 pastas joining the menu on Friday and Saturday.
“For me, food means good times and family,” Emiliano concludes. “That’s what we’re creating at Red Lenny…a little taste of home.” l
A specialist family law firm, committed to helping you.
Gift or a Loan?
For many young couples, getting into the property market can be a challenge.
In come generous parents who “lend” the couple money to give them a start. The understanding is that the loan is repayable. In reality, no repayments are made and the debt is ultimately forgiven. That is until the young couple’s relationship breaks down. One is adamant the funds were a gift, the other that they were a
loan. If there’s no agreement, litigation is the only answer, where ultimately, a judge will decide, at great emotional and financial cost.
So, if you’re in this situation and it’s a loan:
• Enter into a loan agreement;
• Register the loan over the title of the property;
• Either make provision for instalment payments or make it clear that the entire loan (with or without interest) will be payable in the event the relationship breaks down.
If it’s a gift, protect it by entering into a financial agreement ensuring the person to whom the money was gifted, gets it back in any subsequent property settlement.
WHAT’S
IT'S WHALE WATCHING SEASON!
Set sail on a Winter whale watching adventure with Captain Cook Cruises from Circular Quay. Over 20,000 Humpback whales make the 3,500km journey from sub-Antarctic waters to the Great Barrier Reef every year. Whale numbers peak off Sydney in June-July for the Northern migration, with younger males known to show off in August! As well as expert commentary and family-friendly indoor and outdoor decks, there's also a whale sighting guarantee, spot one or cruise again for free. From $69, head to captaincook.com.au for info and to book.
7 & 21 JUNE
NORTHSIDE PRODUCE MARKET
8.30AM-12PM
@ TED MACK CIVIC PARK, NTH SYD
13 JUNE WRESTLEMANIA!
@ NORTHS CAMMERAY
21 JUNE CROWS NEST MARKET
@ ERNEST PLACE, CROWS NEST
22 JUNE
COAL LOADER ARTISAN MARKETS
@ WAVERTON
28 JUNE, 7.30PM
JORDAN BRADY - LIVE MUSIC
@ THE BLUES POINT HOTEL
29 JUNE
MARMALADE WORKSHOP
@ NTH SYD COMMUNITY CENTRE
ALL MONTH
HALF PRICE BAREFOOT BOWLS
@ NEUTRAL BAY CLUB
SNOW WEEK IS BACK!
Greenwood Plaza and Greenwood Hotel have teamed up again for the brrrrr-illiant annual Snow Week event in North Sydney, taking place from the 28 June to the 7 July. Check out what's on and all the deets at greenwoodplaza.com.au
11
HAYDEN
ORPHEUM COMEDY CLUB
Expertly curated by the WorldFamous Comedy Store, and lovingly Presented by the Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace in Cremorne, this is a match made in heaven with the perfect combo of chuckles, choc-tops, and all-star line-ups! 8pm start. Head to orpheum.com.au for info and tickets.
19
PRIMARY TRUST
Pulitzer Prize winning and hailed as the New York Times Critic's Pick, Primary Trust is an upfliting offbeat comedy about finding the courage to change. Experience an honest and funny night of storytelling that will capture your imagination and fill you with hope. Runs until 12 July. Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall St, Kirribilli ensemble.com.au
28
ABBALANCHE AT NORTHS CAMMERAY
Get ready for a sensational night of music, nostalgia, and pure fun as Abbalanche take to the stage to deliver an electrifying tribute to the iconic Swedish pop group, ABBA. norths.com.au
22
PRIMROSE PARK ARTISTS' STUDIO
OPEN DAY
Meet local artists and crafters and take part in free workshops. 10am-4pm, Primrose Park Art & Craft Centre, Matora Lane, Cremorne
28
NORTHS VS GORDON LEGENDS DAY
Join Northern Suburbs Rugby at North Sydney Oval for their clash against Gordon Rugby Club in the 2025 Shute Shield. Tickets available on the day or at northsrugby.com. au. Go the Red and Blacks!
JULY
18 JULY-23 AUG
EMERALD CITY
6TH WEAVING CONNECTIONS
Join Muruwari woman and multi-award winning artist, Dr Virginia Keft, for a weaving and yarning circle to create your own woven mirinj (star) and connect through stories, culture and creativity.Part of the Gai-mariagal Festival. 1-3pm, Ros Crichton Pavilion, Nth Syd. Bookings essential, northsydney.nsw.gov.au
David Williamson’s iconic 1980’s triumph has been given a refresh. Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall St, Kirribilli ensemble.com.au
3 JULY
JAZZ AT THE LOUNGE, NIKKI PARROTT TRIO
@ THE CONCOURSE, CHATSWOOD
5 JULY
THE SOUNDS OF SIMON & GARFUNKEL LIVE @ HAYDEN ORPHEUM, CREMORNE
EVERY TUESDAY
THE FEEL GOOD GUITAR GROUP
@ KIRRIBILLI NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE
EVERY WEDNESDAY
SINGING GROUP
@ NEUTRAL BAY COMMUNITY CENTRE
CONDITN TRAINING NORTH SYDNEY
READER OFFER!
MENTION 'NORTHSIDER' when booking and you'll receive a FREE WEEK TRIAL plus your first 4 weeks at HALF PRICE!
Lower Ground 99 Walker Street, North Sydney (enter via Mount Street) conditn.com
NORTH SYDNEY BEARS HOME
GAMES
Support the North Sydney Bears in The Knock On Effect NSW Cup at North Sydney Oval. July home games on Sunday 13th and Friday night 25th. Enter discount code NORTHSIDER25 on the cart page for 50% off your ticket! For tickets go to northsydneybears. com.au
11
31 JULY
AUSTRALIAN YOUTH ORCHESTRA HOMECOMING CONCERT
Under the inspiring leadership of maestro David Robertson (New York Philharmonic, Sydney Symphony Orchestra), 100 of Australia’s finest musicians round out their dazzling European tour with this encore performance of their show, Colour, Sound, Lore Expect a spellbinding evening of Mendelssohn, Rimsky-Korsakov and Sculthorpe. 8pm, Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com
VIVE LA FRANCE
VIVE LA FRANCE
Works exhibited include the accomplished and passionate artists of the Royal Art Society together with a collection of fascinating French art acquired by a private collector over 40 years from provincial French flea markets to Parisian auction houses. Works will be for sale. Opening night 11 July, 6-8pm and runs until 27 July. For more info go to royalart.com.au
AUGUST
3RD,
10TH & 23RD KIRRIBILLI MARKET
Head to the famous Kirribilli Art, Design & Fashion Market on the 3rd and 10th August, and the General & Fashion Market on the 23rd. Open 8.30am-3pm, Burton Street Tunnel, Milsons Point.
1
WALLAROOS VS WALES
Don’t miss your chance to see the Wallaroos take on Wales at North Sydney Oval before they head to England for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup! All out action. All in gold and green. Tickets on sale via Ticketek, adults $20, concession $15, kids $10. Gates open at 5.30pm for kick off at 7pm. Head to wallaroos.rugby/tickets for more info.
29-31 AUGUST - THE HIDDEN CELLAR
Step into The Hidden Cellar, an immersive wine tasting experience like no other, set within the historic sandstone walls of Tunnel One at The Coal Loader, Waverton. For tickets go to events.humanitix.com/the-hidden-cellar
The Royal Art Society of NSW presents
2025 Art Ballot Exhibition and Draw
Art lovers, collectors and friends of the RAS eagerly await this exhibition each year! Packed with beautiful paintings donated 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 24th August.
Art Ballot Viewing Times
Mon - Fri 10am to 4pm
Sat - Sun 11am to 4pm
First viewing Sat 2nd August
Last viewing Sat 23rd August
Draw Sun 24th August
Cat Eye Sunglasses in Marzipan, $49.95, Seed Heritage
Neroli & Orchidee Eau de Toilette $115.00, L’Occitane
Mid Blue Denim Wide Leg Jeans Style State, Catalina Valentina
Escher Tie in Pink/Navy $89.95,
Iris Gold Necklace, $245, MOA Museum of Accessories
all this season’s
Gold and Tort Bangle Set $49.95, Seed Heritage
Essential Tote, $59.99, Typo
Two Faced Jacquard Gown, $129, Peter Alexander
Lida
at Greenwood WINTER EDIT
Vanessa Tailored Coat in Mid Grey Marle, $189.95, Decjuba
Maeve+ Glasses, 2 pairs from $249, Specsavers
Make-Up Brush Set $24.99, Typo
Manis and Pedis, Nails
Multi Check Scarf in Twilight Blue $79.95, Seed Heritage
Leather Belt, $119, Veronika Maine
Mens Alcott Shirt Athletic Fit in Slate Blue $129.95, M.J Bale
Cecilia Midi Shirt Dress in Python Print $139.95, Decjuba
Piper Ribbed $16.99,
Textured Mini Round Handbag in Cookie, $79.95, Seed Heritage
SEEKING STEADY GROUND
Captial
As the global economy continues to respond to shifts in international trade policies – particularly those of the US – uncertainty remains a defining feature of financial markets. The inconsistent application of US tariffs has shaken investor confidence and driven volatility across global equity indices, including the S&P 500. Speculation about a potential US recession, spurred by comments from President Trump, has only heightened concerns. Central banks now facing the challenge of managing rising inflation alongside sluggish economic growth – otherwise known as stagflation. Against this backdrop, investors are increasingly seeking assets that offer both income and capital preservation.
A timely solution?
Compared to equities, property debt funds are generally less volatile. Their unlisted structure and mortgagebacked security provide a resilient investment profile, delivering steady fixed interest repayments.
A resilient investor strategy
With growing demand for private real estate credit, property debt funds can often negotiate attractive lending terms, enhancing investor returns. The Reserve Bank’s rate cuts may further lower default risk and support performance. By combining the stability of real assets with the income potential of private credit, these funds offer a smart approach to uncertain markets.
Property debt funds pool investor capital and lend it to real estate projects, with the loans secured by a mortgage on the underlying property. This security means that if a borrower defaults, the property can be sold to recover the loan. In Australia, real estate remains a relatively stable asset class, offering reassurance for investors.
A smarter way to invest in uncertain times Capital Property Funds offers a range of investment funds and advisory services, helping clients manage risk, understand the market and find the right opportunities. We also manage the properties they invest in, staying involved every step of the way. If you’ve considered investing in property debt funds but didn’t know where to start, Capital Property Funds could be the ideal partner to help you invest with confidence. Want to know more? Call 02 8004 6218 to chat to the team today. ●
NEW WINTER MENU
Lunch and Dinner
Le Coq and Fish Bistro
Dinner Tues-Sun, 5-10pm
Breakfast Fri-Sun, 7.30am-12pm
Lunch Fri-Sun, 12pm-3pm
Happy Hours Fri-Sun, 3.30-5.30pm
E info@lecoqandfish.com.au
P 0424 605 983
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Foodie news
Discover these tasty little nuggets from around the northside
A delicious return
After a short sabbatical, dinner is back from Wednesday-Saturday at Sidando by MANI in Milsons Point! The Modern Asian restaurant and dumpling bar is celebrating with a Launch Special too. Treat your tastebuds to their Salt and Pepper WA Lobster Tail for $108 (normally $138) when you buy any bottle of wine. Dinner is served from 5-9pm, with brekkie and lunch Tues-Sun, 8.30am-3pm. Head to sidando.com.au to book and browse the menu.
NEW VENUES
EL JEFE
Discover a fiesta of flavour at this restaurant on Ridge Street in North Sydney, where vibrant Latin American dishes meet modern Australian flair. Menu includes daily empanadas, tacos with house made tortillas, Brazilian seafood stew and corn ribs with chipotle mayo.
PIPER AND THRUPPS
Opened early this year on Kurraba Road near the wharf, this cute local gem serves daily sangas packed with goodies, brekkie pastries and treats like this honey, ricotta and cinnamon toast.
LODE PIES
Tucked in a laneway behind 73 Miller St-near Greenwood
Plaza’s entry on Blues St-you’ll find cult bakery Lode serving upper-crust creations. Think bolognese and miso eggplant pies, croissants and pearfrangipane tarts (pictured).
Open weekdays 8am to 3pm.
Time for lunch at Antica!
Antica Dining on Miller Street in North Sydney is now dishing up la dolce vita for lunch from Monday to Saturday, with a full a la carte menu as well as a Pranzo Espresso option, which offers two molto bene courses for $59. Choose from antipasti such as prawns with garlic and chilli or Wagyu carpaccio with rocket and parmesan, followed by mains including slow-cooked lamb shank served with mashed potato and tomato sugo or house-made linguine with blue swimmer crab. Got a sweet tooth? Swap out the entree for a dessert - Antica’s indulgent tiramisu is always a winner. And if you time it right, you’ll roll into Aperitivo Hour (4–6pm), with $2 oysters, $12 signature cocktails and a curated selection of wines that make unwinding all too easy. anticadining.com.au
Exciting chef collab fires up LB’s
Warm up this season at View Sydney’s LB’s Restaurant with their new winter menu crafted by local legend Chef Jeff in collaboration with renowned chef Justin North. With 25 years at LB’s, Chef Jeff brings flavour, experience and a deep love for the season to every dish. View Sydney, 17 Blue St, North Sydney
New Winter menu arrives at Le Coq and Fish
Waverton’s authentic neighbourhood French bistro has launched their new Menu Formule from $50 for two courses and from $69 for three. Bon appetit!
YOUR TABLE AWAITS
French Mediterranean inspired menu
LUNCH 12:00 - 2:30pm Weekdays
DINNER 6:00 - 9:00pm Daily
17 Blue Street, North Sydney
PIZZA
PERFECTION
Master Pizzaiolo Alberto Cacciatore from Etymon’s Soluna in North Sydney shares his secrets to creating a sensational slice
This elegant, flavour-packed pizza is a favourite on Soluna’s new menu.
A vibrant twist on tradition, this recipe is ideal for impressing guests or elevating your next pizza night.
“At Soluna in North Sydney, we celebrate the beauty of simplicity, fresh ingredients and Mediterranean spirit,” Alberto says. “This pizza reflects exactly that. The combination of creamy stracciatella, delicate mortadella and vibrant pistachios and the brightness of lemon captures the coastal, sun-soaked feeling that defines our menu. It’s approachable, elegant and made to share - just like the lively, relaxed energy we bring to Soluna every day.”
MORTADELLA, PISTACHIO, STRACCIATELLA & LEMON PIZZA
DOUGH MAKES 6 X 28CM PIZZAS
Begin the dough a day ahead. You’ll need:
INGREDIENTS:
1kg ‘00’ pizza flour (Caputo Pizzeria Flour is ideal)
550ml cool tap water + 100ml extra
3g fresh yeast (or 1g dried yeast)
25g fine salt
20ml extra virgin olive oil
DOUGH METHOD:
• In a stand mixer (or by hand if you’d like a workout!), combine the flour with 550ml water until absorbed. Crumble in the yeast and mix to form a rough dough. Gradually add the remaining 100ml water, then the salt, and finally the olive oil. Mix until the dough becomes smooth and pillowy.
• Let the dough rest on a clean surface, covered, for one hour. During this time I like to fold the dough onto itself once or twice to help it develop a little more strength and structure. Divide rested dough into six equal portions (approx. 280g each), shape into balls and place on a lightly oiled tray, spaced apart to allow for rising. Cover and
Chef Alberto’s top tips
Patience is key! Give your dough time to ferment. Overnight is ideal for better texture and deeper flavour. Respect the dough
Handle it gently when stretching to preserve the air bubbles that make the crust light. Heat is your best friend
allow to proof for 2–3 hours at room temperature until doubled in size.
Refrigerate overnight.
ON PIZZA DAY:
• Remove dough from the fridge about an hour before baking to let it come to room temperature. Preheat your pizza oven to 380°C, or your regular fan-forced oven to its highest setting, with a sheet pan, pizza stone or baking steel inside. Now you’re ready to stretch your dough!
• For each pizza, prepare a mound of semolina flour on your bench. Gently lift one dough ball onto the semolina using floured hands or a spatula, taking care to keep it as round as possible. Using two hands, press into the centre with your fingers (leaving the edges untouched for a puffy crust). Flip and stretch gently until it is the right size to fits your pizza stone or sheet pan. Dust off excess flour and place dough on a clean, dry surface ready to top.
Preheat your oven and pizza stone to create that beautiful airy crust. Less is more Focus on balancing a few great toppings rather than overloading the pizza. Timing matters Add delicate toppings like mortadella, stracciatella and lemon zest after baking to keep texture and flavour intact.
TOPPINGS (FOR 1 PIZZA):
70g Fior di latte mozzarella
10ml extra virgin olive oil
4 slices good-quality mortadella
40g stracciatella cheese
5g shelled pistachios, roughly chopped
Fresh lemon zest
Cracked black pepper
TOPPINGS METHOD:
• Top your stretched dough with Fior di latte, then drizzle over the olive oil, spreading it to avoid burning in the oven. Slide pizza onto a hot pizza stone or steel and bake for 3–5 minutes until golden and bubbling, checking the base to avoid over-charring.
• Place the hot pizza on a rack briefly to let steam escape, keeping the crust crisp. Layer on the mortadella, dollop the stracciatella and scatter over pistachios in that order. Finish with lemon zest, a crack of pepper and a final drizzle of olive oil. Serve fresh from the oven on a large round plate. Slice with a pizza wheel or scissors and enjoy!
IN SEASON
MasterChef Australia winner, passionate food educator and market tour leader at the Northside Produce Market, Elena Duggan, shares this season’s top produce picks
Mandarins
• Peel and dip segments in melted dark chocolate. Sprinkle with flaked salt.
• Juice into a winter citrus dressing for crisp salads.
• Use the zest and juice to add a zing to cakes or to make a citrus syrup to drizzle over pancakes.
Cavolo Nero (Tuscan Kale)
• Sauté with garlic, olive oil and lemon zest for a deliciously simple side.
• Add to hearty soups, like minestrone, towards the end of the cooking process.
• Crisp in the oven with olive oil and sea salt for kale chips and serve with warm dips.
Mushrooms
• Sauté with garlic and thyme as toast toppers for brekkie or brunch.
• Add to risottos or barley stews for flavour and texture depth.
• Place mushrooms in the midday sun for 15 mins, with the gills facing up, to supercharge their vitamin D levels. Kept in the fridge, the levels last about a week.
Broccoli
• Toss with miso and sesame oil and roast until crispy.
• Blanch and blend into pesto with almonds and lemon.
• Stir-fry with garlic and tamari for an easy side.
Brussels Sprouts
• Halve and roast with pancetta and balsamic glaze.
• Shred raw into a slaw with apple, walnuts and a mustard vinaigrette.
• Grill whole on skewers with lemon and harissa yoghurt.
• Try my favourite warm slaw, shredded sprouts with anchovies, peas, capers and mint, a perfect side to Moorlands Biodynamic Lamb roast, available at Northside Produce Market.
Free ‘Behind The Scenes’ Northside Produce Market Tours
Join Elena for free market tours on selected Saturdays at Ted Mack Civic Park. Meet the farmers and producers and get top tips for your market goodies. Bookings are essential! For info and upcoming tour dates, head to northsydneycentre.com.au.
BETTER together
Discover the local volunteering program creating community for life’s important moments
When someone we love is nearing the end of life, it’s the little things that matter most. Whether it’s running errands, helping to make phone calls or sharing a cuppa and a chat, knowing care and support are available can make all the difference.
The Compassionate Connector Program is a community initiative from not-for-profit North Shore-based care organisation Proveda.
Funded by the Sydney North Primary Health Network and the Wicking Trust, the program aims to ensure that people over 65 who are living at home, facing a life-limiting diagnosis and often feeling socially isolated, are connected, supported and part of a caring community. It involves a unique volunteering opportunity that includes education on topics relevant to end of life.
“This program is about creating a culture where we look out for one another, especially during life’s most challenging times,” says Anna Petinsky, Proveda’s Compassionate Connector Program co-ordinator. “We match participants with our trained volunteers who are passionate about helping others feel less alone.”
Known as Connectors, the volunteers are all ages and from all walks of life.
“THIS IS ABOUT CREATING A CULTURE WHERE WE LOOK OUT FOR ONE ANOTHER”
They undertake comprehensive training and often have personal experience with end-of-life care, and all share a common drive to make a meaningful difference.
“Their key task is to identify and connect the participant and their family with more support in the community,” Anna says. “This doesn’t necessarily mean professional services, but ongoing community support so families and loved ones are able to spend loving, quality time with each other without having to worry about grocery shopping or who’s going to take the dog out.”
With free volunteer training sessions now taking place locally around the North Shore, Anna and the team at Proveda are working hard on reaching their goal of creating stronger communities where no one faces ageing, dying or grieving alone.
“By helping people talk openly about end of life, express their wishes and feel supported, the program is changing lives,” Anna says. “We hope to create an empowered community where we become better at caring for one another at home at the end of life. Illness, dying and death are not easy to deal with, but we can support each other through and make it easier together. Through small, simple steps, we can all be part of this change.” l
Want to find out more or volunteer? Visit www.proveda.com.au
Ted the Puggle chats to threeand-a-half-year-old Ginny the Sheepadoodle (Old English Sheepdog X Poodle) from Kirribilli
‘You never know what
someone might leave behind!’
TED: You’ve been through a bit of an ordeal recently Ginny. What happened?
GINNY: I’d just finished my morning scamper around Bradfield Park and was heading to get a drink at the water fountain by Jeffrey Street Wharf, when I smelled something yummy. Human poo! Even better than seagull poo I reckon. I started eating it and my humans, Neil and Katie, were very, very, verrrrry cross. They rinsed my mouth several times but little did we know, there was some really nasty stuff in what I’d eaten.
T: What happened next Ginny?
G: Well, I didn’t feel too great after we got home–I usually have a big drink of water after a walk, but I was too tired to do anything but collapse on my bed. My pawrents took my heart rate and even though I was panting it was much slower than usual. Worst of all, I wasn’t interested in treats, even my faves held right under my nose!
Couch pup-tato
Here’s me chilling out at home. I mostly sleep when my paw-rents are out and I’m always really excited to see them when they get back.
T: I bet you gave your pawrents a fright!
G: They were incredibly worried, especially when I wouldn’t even move my head for kangaroo jerky. So they called my vet, Crystal at Pet Medical Milsons Point, described my symptoms and told her what I’d eaten. She said immediately ‘that sounds like marijuana poisoning’ and to bring me in as soon as possible. I couldn’t stand up anymore at this point, so Neil, had to carry all 23kg of me to the car, even though we live very close to the vet.
T: What treatment did you have?
G: Everyone was incredible. They quickly gave me something to make me vomit and tested my pee for multiple drugs to see what exactly I’d ingested. Turns out, not only was there marijuana but cocaine as well!
Pet Medical did everything they could to get the drugs out of my system as quickly as possible. In addition to an emetic, I had an enema and a special injection to bind with the drugs and get them out of my blood.
T: How are you feeling now?
G: I’m fully recovered and back to my usual energetic self! I had to take it easy (no scampering) and eat chicken and pumpkin for a few days while my tummy settled down. But it’s never a bad day when I get chicken and my humans paid even more attention to me than usual, which was great.
Feeling paw-some
Me scampering through the park and feeling lots better.
I love my walkies and am now really good at ‘leave it.’
I also went back to the vet for a blood test to make sure the treatment hadn’t affected my insides and thankfully it was all clear.
T: Sounds like you gave everyone a shock Ginny! Now you’re feeling better, where are your fave places for walkies?
G: Most days I get some energy out running after a ball in Bradfield Park before settling down for a well-behaved walk. We follow the boardwalk around Lavender Bay to Wendy Whiteley’s Garden or we’ll head to Mary Booth Lookout and home via Admiralty House. Sawmillers Reserve is also doggie heaven! My bestie is Bruce, @brucetheaussiesheepadoodle. We go to each other’s house or meet up in the park. When we first see each other, we go crazy, chasing, rumbling and wrestling! It’s chaos but unmistakably joyful - the kind of wild, tumbling fun only besties understand.
T: What advice would you give to doggos looking for sneaky snackies in the park?
G: Well, my experience is a reminder that you never know what someone might leave behind and that it might have something in it that could be very bad for you. I’m not allowed off leash where picnickers have been now and my humans and I have been practicing ‘leave it’ a lot – just in case. People leave chicken bones and fish hooks on the foreshore without thinking about us doggies, so humans always need to keep a close eye on the ground. ●
Animal MATTERS
with Pet Medical Milsons Point’s Dr Jo-Ann Chan BVSc
Providing veterinary care with love and compassion.
We all know dogs love a good sniff and snuffle, but not everything in the bushes is as innocent as it seems. From mystery snacks, like the one Ginny found, to spiky plants poking eyes or causing allergies and grass seeds which burrow into ears and paws. From swollen paws packed with sharp, sneaky seeds, painful red eyes from scratchy twigs and plenty of ‘what did they just eat!?’ moments, we’ve seen it all here at Pet Medical Milsons Point.
To see more of Ginny’s adventures go to Instagram @sydneysheepadoodle
So next time your pup dives into a shrub or seems overly fixated with something on the foreshore, channel your inner detective. A quick call of their name or a strict ‘leave it’ might save you both some trouble.
But if your dog seems itchy, sniffly or sore, simply pop by the clinic. Our team have lots of treats on hand and we’re always happy to help.
Proudly brought to you by
FOR ALL AGES A welcoming hub
There’s something for everyone at the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre!
Tucked on Fitzroy Street, the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre is more than a beautiful heritage-listed building, it’s also a buzzing hub of activity, learning and community connection.
Whether you’re looking to sharpen your skills, meet new people or simply spend time in a welcoming space, the KNC has something for everyone.
A centre for learning
Budding musicians from Years 3 to 9 can enjoy free, by appointment only piano lessons on Wednesdays, while guitar enthusiasts of all levels and ages can join the lively and friendly Feel Good Guitar Group.
Language lovers are in for a treat too. The KNC offers free Conversations in English every Friday, perfect for those looking to boost their confidence in a casual environment. Italian classes are also available, with beginner lessons and conversation sessions designed to immerse you in la bella lingua.
A supportive space
For those seeking support, the Centre provides free legal advice in weekly sessions with an experienced lawyer as well as free, confidential counselling for young people aged 10-18. The counselling is run in partnership with KYDS and professionals are available at the KNC five days a week, offering help to individuals and families navigating tough times. Both of these services require bookings, so head to the KNC website to find out more.
Community matters
At the KNC, community spirit thrives with a range of social groups and gatherings including Knitting Club, Scrabble Tuesdays and Bridge Wednesdays. A new art class on Wednesdays adds extra creativity.
And when Winter bites, the library is the perfect spot to get cosy with a book.
From music and art to language, support services and social gatherings, the Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre is bringing people of all ages together. l
• Language lessons
• Children’s programs
• Room hire
• Children’s events
• Seniors Strength & Balance
• Courtyard & toy shed
• Senior’s classes & groups
• Library
• Mums and Bubs
• Kids Party packages
• Wellbeing (yoga, Pilates, meditation)
• Free kids counselling
• Legal services
• JP service
• Self-help groups
• Discussion groups
• Concerts
Your local BROKER
Leeanne Scott and Robert Bulgin from Mortgage Choice North Sydney are here to help…
You’ve decided to take the leap and use a mortgage broker instead of simply returning to your bank. It’s a smart move - and you’re not alone. An impressive 73% of all home loans are now arranged through brokers, demonstrating the clear value we bring when securing a new home or refinancing existing loans. But here’s the crucial question: are all brokers created equal?
Simply put, no. Your choice of mortgage broker can significantly impact your financial future, so it’s worth knowing what distinguishes the exceptional from the average.
• What should you look for when choosing your broker?
• A comprehensive lending panel
Access matters. Different lenders have varying credit requirements and assessment criteria and everyone’s financial situation is unique. The more lenders your broker can access, the more options you’ll have available. At Mortgage Choice North Sydney, our extensive panel of more than 40 lenders ensures we can find the perfect match for your specific circumstances.
• Genuine personalised service Your mortgage broker should be your financial partner, not just a transaction facilitator. Look for someone who guides
you through every step of the process and remains available long after settlement. A truly excellent broker conducts regular reviews to ensure your loan remains competitive and suitable as your life evolves. At Mortgage Choice North Sydney, this ongoing relationship is fundamental to our service philosophy.
• Depth of expertise
Mortgage broking isn’t just about paperwork. It’s about crafting solutions tailored precisely to your needs. Lending is definitely not “one size fits all.” When selecting a broker, investigate their industry experience and track record of helping clients in situations similar to yours. Deep expertise translates into finding opportunities and solutions others might miss.
• Your local advantage
The team at Mortgage Choice North Sydney delivers all these benefits and more. We pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our clients, supporting you through every stage of your financial journey, from your first home purchase to investment properties, refinancing and beyond.
We look forward to welcoming you and demonstrating the difference the right mortgage broker can make. We're here to help you achieve your property dreams. l
Email: leeanne.scott@mortgagechoice.com.au Phone: 0411 601 460
Email: robert.bulgin@mortgagechoice.com.au Phone: 0403
buzz! Allthe
Meet the northsider who's saving the bees one swarm at a time…
When Andrew Wilson set up two hives in his backyard in St Ives, he could never have imagined that just a few years later he’d be the North Shore’s go-to bee whisperer, with over 11 million bees…and counting…in his care.
“It all escalated pretty quickly,” Andrew
laughs. “I’ve always been interested in bees and my wife, Rebecca, got me a beekeeping course for my birthday one year. I loved it, got myself a couple of hives and started selling a bit of honey locally as Snives Hives.”
When friends and neighbours discovered swarms in their homes, they’d make a beeline for Andrew, asking him to come and use his expertise to relocate the insects. Soon, pest control companies also started getting in touch, keen to preserve and move bees instead of destroying them.
“People didn’t want to kill or harm the bees so had left them where they were,” Andrew says. “And when they realised I could help, the flood gates opened!”
The hobby that took flight Within a year, Andrew’s rescued bees had overrun the family’s outdoor space,
Urban bees at work at the Swissôtel in Sydney CBD
with up to 20,000 bees in each hive. “It’s not the best solution to put them all in your backyard,” he smiles. “I knew I needed to create more sustainable.”
The COVID-19 pandemic gave airline pilot Andrew the chance to do that, with the unexpected pause in his career allowing him to turn his hobby into a full-fledged operation and Sydney Bee Rescue was born.
From urban rooftops to fire escapes, internal walls and towering backyard trees, Andrew and his team of bee enthusiasts have become the go-to experts on the northside for ethical bee removal. “Bees never choose an easy place to nest,” he says. “Sometimes we have to bring in thermal imaging cameras to locate them or cranes to help us get them down.”
Andrew’s 10 apiaries, which each contain up to 50 hives, now stretch through the
North Shore and, after leasing land on the Central Coast from the State Government, he has also been able to move his rescue bees into the forest to flourish.
“I wish I could tell them what’s happening when we rescue them,” he says. “I’d love to say ‘Hey girls, here’s where we’re going! You’re going to love it!” It’s incredibly rewarding to know that they get a second chance.”
A sticky future?
But this isn’t just a swarm and fuzzy story about a backyard beekeeping project taking flight. The North Shore’s bees are facing a crisis, with mounting threats to the bee
“SOMETIMES WE HAVE TO BRING IN THERMAL IMAGING CAMERAS TO LOCATE THEM”
Sydney Bee Rescue’s Andrew Wilson checking on the rooftop bees making honey for Ten Stories restaurant at Sydney’s Swissôtel in the CBD
population ranging from habitat destruction to chemical exposure and, most worryingly, the arrival and spread of the deadly Varroa mite, a parasite which feeds on bees and is decimating bee populations around the world. Andrew has seen the impact of Varroa’s incursion firsthand, with farmers already feeling the sting.
“We’re losing nearly 100% of wild European honeybees on the North Shore,” Andrew explains. “I get calls from farmers in the Hunter Valley, in Newcastle and on the Central Coast and they’re all asking, ‘Where are the bees?’ Their crops aren’t pollinating and it’s a real crisis.”
“Without honeybees, we lose one in every three bites of food,” he continues. “Even dairy farming is affected as livestock feed depends on pollination. Native bees do contribute, but they aren’t able to handle the burden.”
“THERE’S NO BETTER POLLINATOR ON THE PLANET THAN THE BEE, WHICH IS WHY IT IS SO CRITICAL THAT WE LOOK AFTER THEM”
Andrew is now working with farmers to deliver rescue bees to them to help reintroduce populations and restore vital pollination cycles. “There’s no better pollinator on the planet than the bee,” he says. “That’s why it’s so critical that we look after them.”
A
sweet reward
The honey harvested from Andrew’s hives, which he sells at the Northside Produce Market in North Sydney and online, helps fund the upkeep of the colonies.
“The bees pay their rent in honey,” he jokes. “All the money goes back into maintaining their hives - buying new frames, treatments and equipment.”
One of Andrew’s greatest joys is working alongside fellow passionate beekeepers and volunteers, such as The North Shore Beekeepers Association.
Even his kids, Hamish, seven, and Alastair, six, have caught the beekeeping bug. “They have their own little bee suits,” Andrew enthuses. “There’s a lot of unnecessary fear around bees, but when kids grow up seeing them as part of nature, they learn to respect and appreciate them.”
Bee the change
Education is also a big part of Andrew’s work. He regularly teaches people about bees and
how to support them. “A simple thing like putting out a bird bath with stones in it means that bees and insects can land for a drink without drowning,” he advises. “Please don’t feed bees though, especially not honey. It does more damage than good and is the biggest disease risk for colonies.”
Andrew also recommends searching out pest control companies that don’t kill bees, ‘you can just ask them,’ he advises, and ensuring that the honey you buy is Australian. “Check the label and support local. It really does have a big effect.”
And if you’re interested in backyard beekeeping yourself, head to an open day to chat with the experts.
“The North Shore Beekeepers Association run them every month,” Andrew says. “There’s lots of information and you can get hands-on experience to see if it’s right for you.”
Despite the challenges facing the bee keeping community, Andrew remains hopeful. “Bees are incredibly resilient. If a hive is moved, they’re out collecting nectar again within minutes,” he says. “They work as a team, adapt as a community and they keep going. I think there’s a lot we can learn from them.” ● For more info head to sydneybeerescue.org, sniveshives.com.au and nsbka.org.au
Buzzing to the rescue!
Clockwise from far left: Some of Sydney Bee Rescue’s hives in the state forest on the Central Coast; a swarm hidden inside a wall that needed rescuing; the bee team at work; Andrew Wilson with some of his Snives Hives honey, available at the Northside Produce Market and sniveshives.com.au; Andrew in action in his bee suit, rescuing a swarm out on the street.
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PUZZLES with Quizmaster Clay
SUDOKU Slot the numbers 1 to 9 into every horizontal line, vertical row and 3 x 3 square.
1. Which Aboriginal group are the traditional custodians of the land that North Sydney occupies?
2. What is the only suburb in North Sydney LGA where you can catch a ferry, a train, and a bus within a 500m radius?
3. In what year did construction begin on the redevelopment of North Sydney Olympic Pool? Bonus point for the month.
4. In which suburb would you find the following streets: Wycombe, Waters and Watson?
5. How many runners are expected to participate in the TCS Sydney Marathon, starting at Miller Street North Sydney on 31 August? 25,000, 35,000 or 45,000
Quiz answers on p70
Mention ‘northsider’ & Pete will give you a discount!locals
HEART Art with
How a front fence in Cremorne has become a design destination
When northsider Amanda Fox went on maternity leave, she found herself missing the creative spark that defines her day job as a high school art teacher. Drawn to finding an artistic outlet, Amanda got thinking. And it was on a walk with her four-year-old daughters, twins Tilly and Lulu, that inspiration struck.
“We always walk past local street libraries and my girls love them,” Amanda says. “I thought, wouldn’t it be cool to have something like that, but for art?”
Back at home, she sketched out a plan for a mini-masterpiece – a tiny gallery that would sit on the family’s front fence and host a rotating range of micro-exhibitions. Handing her plans to husband Mike, he got to work to bring her vision to life. The result? A customdesigned contemporary gallery perched proudly outside their Reed Street home,
complete with a rooftop succulent garden, fairy lights on a timer to illuminate evening exhibitions and a crowd of pocket-size art enthusiasts inside.
Renowned Australian artist Del Kathryn Barton became the gallery’s first featured exhibitor and the inaugural show at the Museum of Tiny Art (MOTA) opened in January this year.
“I tagged Del Kathryn Barton on social media and I was so thrilled when she messaged back to say she loved it!” Amanda enthuses. “She’s my favourite artist so that was really amazing.”
Word quickly spread about MOTA and Amanda’s tiny gallery started drawing a crowd, much to the delight of assistant curators, Tilly and Lulu.
“They keep an eye out for local art lovers and are always so excited when they spot someone at the gallery,” Amanda says.
“I’VE MET SO MANY PEOPLE IN THE COMMUNITY I‘D NEVER CROSSED PATHS WITH BEFORE”
MOTA has quickly become a little landmark, with curious kids, local art fans and interested neighbours all making regular detours to check for new exhibits.
“A couple came by the other day and said they visit every week and are bringing friends with them,” Amanda says. “I’ve met so many people in the community I’d never crossed paths with before. One neighbour brings her grandchildren to visit and when we started chatting, she told me about her background as a print maker. I’ve invited her to display her work in a future exhibition. Making those connections is really special.”
Five months on, Amanda is continuing to showcase a vibrant lineup of exhibitions, with a special focus on celebrating female Australian artists and local creatives.
“There are so many pieces I want to feature, it’s tough to choose each week!” she says. “Creating these exhibitions is wonderful and I love engaging in the fun side of the gallery that’s bringing people together over a little moment of joy.” l
The Museum of Tiny Art (MOTA) can be found at 17A Reed Street, Cremorne and on Instagram @museumoftinyart for the latest exhibits and behind the scenes fun.
Team MOTA above: Amanda with four-year-old twins Tilly and Lulu, nine-month-old son, Freddy, and husband, Mike. Below: The museum’s mini art lovers enjoying the latest exhibition.
Local’s last word.
Artist and book illustrator Serena Geddes has lived in Neutral Bay for six months
My favourite place for coffee is…5 Loaves 2 Fishes and I’ll have a flat white to go. Great coffee, always lovely service and they’re open at 6am so I can grab a coffee early for my morning walk.
The best meal I’ve had in the area was…the seared tuna with miso eggplant at The Botanist in Kirribilli. Delicious paired with a glass of Pinot Gris. If I fancy a cocktail, I’ll go to…The Captain’s Balcony in Crows Nest and order an Old Spice.
My fave local takeaway is... Jaggi’s Indian, for a beef or chicken curry, or Mum and Dads Place, for a mezze. I love their baba gahnoush! My fave local services include…Elysian Wellness Centre for sound healings,
If I’ve got guests in town, I’ll take them to… May Gibbs’ Nutcote for co ee and scones, then jump on a ferry from Neutral Bay to The Rocks. We’d end the day at the Oaks for a meal.
wellness workshops and welcoming community vibe. And I always leave the World of Health in Mosman feeling so good. I really value the care and wisdom of holistic GP Dr. Ranga J. Premaratna, and the friendly staff.
My fave dog-friendly spots are…Waverton Park, St Leonards Park and Kirribilli
to Luna Park. I also love heading to Blues Point for sunrise over the Harbour Bridge before the world’s fully awake.
The secret spot I love locally is…the end of Hayes Street. either to the beach or to sit near the water and watch the ferries. It’s a peaceful place and perfect for people-watching. The thing about living in this area I love the most is... the community. I’ve met so many lovely people in such a short time. I also love that I’m able to run art workshops close to home at May Gibbs’ Nutcote in Kurraba Point and that the vibe down by the harbour is really beautiful.
The words I’d use to describe this area are... Community, creativity and connection
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