welcome
Welcome to Winter northsiders!
We’re so excited to be warming up the season with our latest issue, jam packed with local love. As the lower north shore’s boutique independent publisher, there’s nothing we enjoy more than bringing you stories from our wonderful neighbourhoods. You can also find us on Facebook and Instagram @northsidersydney. We share inspo for things to do, places to go and people to meet. Give us a follow and tag us in your posts.
See you around the ‘hood!
Anna Gordon EDITOR
hello@northsider.com.au
ART DIRECTOR: Belinda Spillane
Follow us for all the latest local goings-on and don’t forget to tag us when you’re out and about!
BAGS OF
love
How a suitcase gives hope to children in need
Fran Signorelli gently places the soft onesie, cuddly toy and hand knitted blanket inside the tightly filled bag. Giving the contents a once over, she slides a beautifully written card on top before closing the zip, “You are loved so much,” it reads inside.
The bag that Willoughby local Fran has carefully packed isn’t for the arrival of a much-anticipated grandchild. It’s destined for a tiny newborn who has nothing - not even a teddy bear - to call their own.
Hard-working Fran is the local northside co-ordinator for Hope In A Suitcase, a non-profit organisation that provides suitcases and bags filled with essential items and messages of hope to children entering foster or out-of-home care. And with around 47,000 children in out-of-home care across Australia, 16,000 of them in NSW, the need for these bags of love is greater than ever.
“Some kids come in to care with nothing but the clothes on their backs, they don’t even have pyjamas, and the one day old babies can have absolutely nothing,” Fran
Handmade toys from the Dougherty Centre Knitting Group become much loved additions to suitcases.
tells northsider. “What we’re doing is more than sending a bag. It’s not just the items inside that matter to these kids. It’s the message of hope and empowerment that goes with them. We want these kids to know they are loved and that people care.”
Fran and her small, dedicated team of eight fellow volunteers spend hours packing suitcases with new items that have been donated by locals. The bags cover a range of ages and are filled with items including toiletries and toothbrushes, underwear, pyjamas, three sets of clothes and more. There’s always a book to read, toys to play with and activities to do, like a colouring set or ball game, as well as something to cuddle. “We squeeze in as much as we can!” Fran laughs.
“THE NORTHSIDE COMMUNITY IS SO WONDERFUL.. PEOPLE ARE GIVING ALL THE TIME”
Fran and husband
Paul dropping suitcases off
Each bag costs roughly $200 to assemble, with a number of local schools, organisations, such as the Northbridge Rotary, and businesses including Qantas, all helping out. The group also received a grant from Willoughby Council and is so grateful for the support they receive from families and individuals in the area.
“When I first started volunteering for Hope In A Suitcase in 2022, Rachael who set the initiative up, told me to be patient and that it might take six months to be able to deliver the first set of bags,” Fran remembers. “But everyone got to work and that first delivery of 40 bags went out to kids just a month later. I couldn’t believe it!”
“The northside community is so wonderful,” she continues. “People are giving all the time and will call me up to ask what we need so they can go and buy it. School kids donate their pocket money and a former foster child recently asked for donations instead of gifts at their birthday party.”
The Dougherty Centre Knitting Group in Chatswood regularly hold working bees, >>
Local legend Fran Signorelli
Sharing hope
Hope In A Suitcase was started by NSW woman, Rachael Clancy, whose parents were foster carers. Rachael grew up seeing children arriving at their home with nothing but a plastic bag of belongings. She vowed to change this and founded Hope In A Suitcase as a non-profit organisation in 2018. Run by volunteers across NSW, Qld, Vic and Tas, the group’s mission is to provide children entering foster or out-of-home care with a suitcase of essentials to call their own and a message of hope. In 2023, they provided 5013 suitcases to children in care. To find more out about HIASC and to donate funds, head to hiasc.org.au
with one 105-year-old member crafting a number of beautiful handmade items.
For locals looking to help, the main Hope In A Suitcase drop off location in the area can be found at the heart of the community at Fran and hubby Paul’s florist, the High Street Flower Market in Willoughby. They accept donations on Thursdays and Sundays.
“Paul’s father, Vince, opened the shop 44 years ago,” Fran says. “And Paul and I first met there as teenagers when he was working at the florist and I was attending Willoughby Girls School up the road. We were High Street sweethearts!”
Married for 40 years, the couple were foster carers themselves while raising their own children.
“WE WANT THESE KIDS TO KNOW THEY ARE LOVED AND THAT PEOPLE CARE”
Clockwise from top left: Bags packed and ready to close; Fran, second right, with some local HIASC volunteers; handmade bunnies from the Dougherty Centre knitting group; Fran’s lounge room!
Bottom left: A batch of bags in the van and ready to go.
“No matter what age these kids are, they deserve our love and help,” Fran says. “If you’d like to donate items, remember, one item is better than no items and you don’t need to make up a whole bag. I’ve got so many boxes of things at home that I can mix and match we can’t even get the car in the garage!”
Sadly, the demand for Hope In A Suitcase bags is only growing year-on-year. For example, Fran and her team organised 190 bags for children for the whole of 2023. By March 2024, that number had already reached 90.
“There is a huge need,” Fran says. “Some of the babies coming straight from the Royal North Shore are missing out on a bag so I’m trying to work out how to fill that gap.
“These kids might go between 12-15 different homes, so for bubs we include a baby book that their carers can fill with photos. We think it’s important these children have something to look back on when they’re older.”
Want to donate?
Head to the High Street Flower Market Facebook page for updates on items Fran currently needs. All items must be brand new and some commonly requested essentials include:
♥ Baby wash
♥ Toothpaste
♥ Night lights for toddlers
♥ UNO or playing cards
♥ Bouncy balls
♥ Colouring pencils
♥ Books
♥ Brushes and hair accessories
♥ Soft toys – under 20cms
“It gives me great happiness to say I can do this,” she concludes. “These children deserve to have things they can call their own. Together we can make a difference to their young lives.” l Want to help? You can contact Fran directly via email northsydney@hiasc.org.au or on 0416 238 826. Donations can be dropped to the High Street Flower Market, 201 High Street, Willoughby on Thursdays and Sundays.
Waves Of Life
Stackable Gemstone Ring, London Blue Topaz, $265 UbyKate 570 Willoughby Rd, Willoughby
The Roadmap Of Loss, by Liam Murphy Available at local bookstores or at allenandunwin.com.au
Marley One Love Stir It Up Wireless Turntable (Limited Edition), $449 JB Hi-fi Home HQ Homemaker Centre, 1 Frederick St, Artarmon
Autumn Light II – Martine Vanderspuy, $2,150. Martine Gallery 44 Sailors Bay Rd, Northbridge
Salus Organic Lavender & Jasmine Heat Pillow | Mint Botanical, $39 Betty + Lola Shop 4183 High St, Willoughby
Salt
71-77
1991 Replica Retro Jersey, $135 North Sydney Bears northsydneybears.com.au
Anderson St,
Wintry Wonder Preserved Flowers, $270 La Petal Shop 558 Ground Floor Mall 88, 88 Christie St, St Leonards
Papa
Coastal Gin, 700ml, $84.99 Dan Murphy’s
Penshurst St, Willoughby
Two Tone Logo Scarf, $69.95 Seed Heritage Level Five, Westfield Chatswood 1
Chatswood
A CUTabove
From trims and highlights to a sharp cut or bouncy blow dry, great hair days start at Miller and Green Northbridge!
Get ready for more great hair days thanks to Haylee Guy and the team at Northbridge’s newest salon, Miller and Green.
A stylist for 20 years, Haylee is known to locals as owner and head stylist of Miller and Green McMahons Point, one of the top salons on the lower north shore.
Customer demand and overflowing appointment requests has led her to opening sister salon, Miller and Green Northbridge on Sailors Bay Road.
“Having owned Miller and Green for over six years, it felt like the right time for us to open a second space,” Haylee says. “The local community in Northbridge is so welcoming and supportive, it felt natural that this was where we came to do that.”
“Our salons are less than 15 minutes apart so new and existing clients now have more flexibility and availability between the two,” she continues. “And we have all the same services at Northbridge, including brows,
“WE’RE LOCATED ON A BEAUTIFUL CORNER THAT HAS LOTS OF NATURAL LIGHT”
lashes and make-up, so time poor clients can tick more off their beauty to do lists in the one place.”
The new Miller and Green salon has a boutique style with a simple but luxe feel.
“We’re located on a beautiful corner that has lots of natural light,” Haylee enthuses.
“It’s the perfect spot for a hair salon, especially for colouring work, as it means tints and treatments are true to colour.”
“We’ve also got a very relaxing shampoo area with massage chairs,” she continues. “Our products are all nourishing, organic and Australian made so you can be assured your hair is getting the very best treatment.”
Located at 315 Sailors Bay Road, Miller and Green occupies a space that was previously home to a local salon owned by a mother and daughter for over 30 years.
“It’s an absolute privilege to step into this location,” Haylee says. “The previous salon was an institution, and it’s so wonderful to meet the Northbridge community and continue caring for their hair and beauty needs.” l
Miller and Green, 315 Sailors Bay Road, Northbridge. Call 9956 7561 or go to www.millerandgreen.com for info and bookings.
EXPERIENCE REDDAM HOUSE NORTH SHORE
Opening in 2025, Reddam House North Shore builds on the global reputation of Reddam schools, offering excellence in education from Kindergarten to Year 12. With state-of-the-art facilities, the school embodies a modern, child-focused, non-denominational, and co-educational approach. It fosters individuality and prepares students to be future leaders.
Become part of a new legacy at northshore.reddamhouse.com.au
Echoes of
THE PAST
Northside novelist Kyra Geddes shares the local background to her debut book, The Story Thief
The last decade has been a labour of love for debut author Kyra Geddes.
After discovering Henry Lawson’s story, The Drover’s Wife, in a creative writing class, the Northside local embarked on a mission to bring recognition to the overlooked female characters in the classic tale.
“It really bothered me that Lawson chose to leave the women unnamed, while giving names to the boys, and even the dog,” Kyra tells northsider. “The fact that his mother was an outspoken and highly influential feminist added extra spark to the fire and I felt that the story was begging for a feminist retelling.”
Captivated by the nameless little girl depicted in Lawson’s work, Kyra set out to give her a voice, and her debut novel, The Story Thief, was born.
Set in 1892, the same year The Drover’s Wife was penned, Kyra’s book masterfully blends page-turning fiction with
“IT REALLY BOTHERED ME THAT HENRY LAWSON CHOSE TO LEAVE THE WOMEN UNNAMED”
meticulously researched historical facts.
The epic tale follows protagonist Lillian Taylor’s journey from the early to mid-20th century against a rich backdrop of significant historical events including Federation, two World Wars, women’s suffrage and the birth of the nuclear age.
“Lillian sees similarities in her family to the family in The Drover’s Wife and starts to believe that Lawson had based the story on them,” Kyra continues. “She goes through a lot to reclaim her story and we follow her on her own personal journey through the 20th century.”
Writing chronologically, Kyra went on a journey through history alongside Lillian.
“I had a detailed plan of the story, and the more I went over it, the more I realised how much history Lillian was going to go through,” she explains. “It was a lot to take on! I focussed on the lived experiences of people at the time I was writing about. I read history and fiction and newspapers and immersed myself in the periods I was writing about, how writers felt about it and also the language they used.”
A long-time northsider, Kyra also incorporated vivid portrayals of local landmarks such as Ravenswood School,
where Lillian was a teacher, Eryldene and Carinya in Gordon, Killarney Castle, Roseville Cinema, Gordon Library and Taronga Zoo. North Sydney, where Henry Lawson lived and worked, is also tightly woven throughout the narrative.
“I love the area,” Kyra says, reflecting on her 25 years on the north shore living in Cammeray, Neutral Bay and Roseville, before settling in Gordon. “It’s so beautiful and full of heritage. I wanted the book to be a preservation of that.”
“It’s a funny thing, the writing world,” she concludes. “You spend so much time sitting behind a desk by yourself. You have
to immerse yourself in the world of your book and you sort of leave the world of the living. It’s lovely to take the finished book out to the places and communities that feature in it. To have my book out there in people’s hands is so satisfying, especially when they see something in the story that perhaps I didn’t even see myself. Lillian is still with me and I feel that there’s more of this story to tell.” l The Story Thief, Affirm Press, RRP, $34.99, at all good bookshops.
Main pic: Kyra Geddes, author of The Story Thief, and left, Henry Lawson in North Sydney
ART OF learning
How Reddam House independent schools cultivate creativity
Reddam House recognises the profound importance of nurturing artistic talent and creativity as integral components of a well-rounded education. Our commitment to fostering independence encourages students to explore their artistic inclinations and express themselves creatively.
Our vibrant arts programs provide students with opportunities to engage in various forms of artistic expression, including visual arts, music, drama, and dance. Through dedicated classes, workshops and extracurricular activities, students are encouraged to push their boundaries, think innovatively and develop their unique artistic voices.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced faculty members create a supportive environment where students can experiment, collaborate and refine their artistic skills. Whether it’s through
painting, sculpture, music composition, theatrical performance or choreography, students are empowered to unleash their creativity and pursue their passions.
Additionally, Reddam House integrates artistic experiences into the broader curriculum, recognising the intrinsic value of creativity in problem-solving, critical thinking and emotional intelligence.
By incorporating arts education across disciplines, we cultivate well-rounded individuals who are not only academically proficient but also creatively inspired.
Participating in national and international exhibitions, performances and competitions, builds students’ confidence by showcasing their artistic talents with the world.
As they graduate from Reddam House, our aspiring artists carry a deep appreciation for creativity, a commitment to self-expression and the skills to make meaningful contributions to the artistic community and beyond.
GARDEN Join the
How local green thumbs are growing community connections
Blooming lovely!
Above: The Warners Park Community Garden 10 months on from when it was first planted.
Below: Some of the team getting ready to dig in and start planting back in 2023.
If you take a stroll through Warners Park in Northbridge and head to the old bowling green, you’ll discover a transformation has taken place. Over the past year, a hard-working group of locals have turned the abandoned area into a blooming lovely plot, packed with plants and produce.
“It’s been an extraordinary transformation from construction site to beautiful garden,” planting coordinator, David Pritchard, tells northsider
While there has been a community garden space in Warners Park for the past 15 years, the current location, which was officially opened in July 2023, allowed for more space and sunshine, and is now truly flourishing.
Tended to by volunteers, working bees can see up to 30 or so regulars rolling up their sleeves to get their hands dirty.
“The garden brings people of different ages, ethnicities and interests together and we all learn from each other,” garden coordinator, Hilary McDonald, says. “Our members range from ages four to 84 and we all work together to prepare garden beds, plant, weed, water, fertilise and harvest. Everyone is welcome here.”
“THE GARDEN BRINGS PEOPLE OF DIFFERENT AGES, ETHNICITIES AND INTERESTS TOGETHER”
GARDEN PARTY!
Members, whose experience runs from complete beginner to experienced green thumb, pay a small joining fee to cover seeds, seedlings and equipment. And as well as growing friendships and horticulture skills, they also get to enjoy delicious morning teas and the pick of the bunch when it comes to the garden’s vegie harvest.
While Winter might be considered a quiet time in the garden, the opposite is in fact the case, with preparations for Spring being made in the cooler months.
DIG IN!
Artarmon Parklands
“Gardening definitely continues through Winter,” David says. “It’s a good time for construction projects and pruning fruit trees.”
“We’re going to wait until warmer weather to celebrate the garden’s first anniversary,” Hilary adds. “It’s amazing that in the past year it’s gone from bare earth to a verdant source of produce. It’s wonderful to share a common interest and learn from each other in very pleasant company.” l
For more info on the Warners Park Community Garden email warnerspcg@gmail.com or head to @warnersparkcommunitygarden on Instagram.
These are some of the community garden areas supported by Willoughby Council and looked after by teams of volunteers.
This large community garden on Burra Road is set on a former bowling green and is popular with all ages. Members enjoy post-working bee socials around the outdoor woodfire pizza oven with pizzas topped with delicious fresh produce from the garden.
Market Garden Park, Willoughby Located at Mowbray Place, this spot has been a market garden since the 1880s. Volunteers meet every Wednesday and Saturday from 10am to 12pm to tend the mixture of fruit trees, herbs, vegies, perennials and annuals.
Hub Community Garden, Chatswood
A shared garden tucked to the rear of the council cottages on Devonshire Street at the heart of Chatswood. The raised brick planter beds make this an accessible community space for those of all abilities. Volunteers meet every second Saturday from 10am-12pm in Winter.
Flat Rock Gully Community Garden
This smaller garden space, open since 2022, has two raised beds filled with produce. Volunteers meet every Sunday morning from 9am.
Some of the Warners Park Community Garden team hard at work.
WHAT’S ON
CHATSWOOD MALL MARKET
- NOW OPEN ON SATURDAYS!
Chatswood Mall Market has been a beloved feature of Chatswood for over two decades and from July will be opening on Thursdays, Fridays AND Saturdays from 9am-9pm. There's Japanese, Malaysian, Greek and gozleme and a whole host of foods to explore including fresh produce. This market is a paradise for foodies so pop down for lunch, dinner and shopping in the Chatswood Mall.
JUNE
5TH STATE OF ORIGIN KICKS OFF
29
GORDON Vs MANLY AT CHATSWOOD
Join the Gordon Highlanders at Chatswood Oval for their clash against the Manly Marlins in the 2024 Shute Shield. 3pm kickoff, tickets at the gate.
MULTICULTURAL SOCIAL LUNCH CLUB - AT HOME WITH WILLOUGHBY
Older adults can enjoy a two course, Asian inspired lunch including tea, coffee and a glass of wine at The Dougherty Community Centre, 7 Victor Street, Chatswood, 12.30-2pm. Bookings are essentialplease call Rufina Lee on 9777 7847 or email Rufina.Lee@willoughby.nsw.gov.au
It’s mate vs mate as the 2024 State Of Origin kicks off on the 5th June. Catch all the action live and loud at The Bridgey with $15 jugs of Tooheys New. Go the Blues! The Bridgeview Hotel, 580 Willoughby Rd, Willoughby
LIVE MUSIC SUNDAYS Enjoy live music and locally brewed craft beer from 4pm every Sunday at Flat Rock Brew Café, 290 Willoughby Road, Naremburn
TRIVIA TUESDAYS
Sydney's newest trivia night has arrived at The Belroy, St Leonards on Tuesdays with free entry, $20 parmis, drinks specials, and plenty of prizes to be won! Bookings recommended. 7pm start. For more info go to thebelroyhotel.com.au
15TH THRIVING FRUIT TREES WORKSHOP
This free hands-on workshop will demonstrate techniques on how to maintain your fruit trees to promote good health, productivity and a long life. 9am-10.30am session and 11am-12.30pm session. Artarmon Parklands Community Garden, 1A Burra Road, Artarmon. Head to willoughby.nsw.gov.au for more info and to book.
BEN LEE AT THE LOUNGE
On the eve of announcing his new solo album, Ben Lee returns for a night of romantic anthems, clever wordplay and indie pop classics. A multi-ARIA winning Australian “national treasure”, a Ben Lee gig always guarantees an evening of pure fun! Head to theconcourse.com.au for tickets and info. Doors open 7.15pm.
EVERY TUESDAY STORY PLAY AT NORTHBRIDGE LIBRARY Play, sing and hear stories at fun, free weekly sessions for babies, toddlers and preschoolers aged up to four years and their carers. 10am-10.30am, Northbridge Library, 258 Sailors Bay Road, Northbridge
JULY
6TH WILLOUGHBY SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: MINI MAESTROS
Get your rumble on with Maestro George Ellis and the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra for a ‘rex-cellent’ musical performance these winter school holidays at The Concourse, Chatswood. To book tickets head to willoughbysymphony.com.au
$10 FOR 10 DAYS AT NORTHS FITNESS
Head to Cammeray and workout at this state of the art gym for 10 days for just $10! There's also a Mid-Year Promotion running on their most popular memberships for a limited time. Head to northsfitness.com.au for info.
6TH & 20TH NORTHSIDE PRODUCE MARKET
Get all of your Christmas in July deliciousness from this local market celebrating 25 years this year! Ted Mack Civic Park, 200 Miller Street, North Sydney, 8am-12pm.
MONDAYS
$18 PASTA NIGHT!
Start the week right at The Willoughby Hotel with three delicious pastas to choose from served with garlic bread for just $18 from 5pm every Monday. Plus, every weekday from 4-6pm you will pay just $6 for a local schooner, house wine or house spirit. Winning! The Willoughby Hotel, 315 Penshurst Street North Willoughby
12TH SPOTLIGHT BY THE SEASIDE NOCTURNAL FAMILY WALK
Bastill yDa
Bring your family for a night walk to spy on our local nocturnal wildlife. Enjoy exploring this beautiful coastal reserve in the stillness of the night. Try spotlighting owls, nightjars, possums and sand dwelling critters. Suitable for children five years and over. Bring a torch and dress warmly. Meet at the end of Sailors Bay Road, parking opposite the bus shelter. 7-8.30pm. Head to willoughby. nsw.gov.au
OPENS 26 JUL
UNCLE VANYA
Celebrated Australian playwright Joanna Murray-Smith breathes new life into Chekhov’s tragicomedy. Get 10% off tickets by using code NS10 at the checkout Runs until 31 August. ensemble.com.au
10TH ABSTRACT PAINTING WORKSHOP
Introduction to Abstract Painting with Yaeli Ohana. One day workshop at Willoughby Arts Centre, 33 Laurel Street, North Willoughby. 10am-4pm. Head to willoughbyarts.org.au for info and to book.
14TH BASTILLE DAY!
eBastill yDa HAPP Y
Celebrate Bastille Day with some joie de vivre and all the delicious goodies at at Le Marche French Market, Laurelbank, Willoughby from 9am-1.30pm.
AUGUST
FRIDAY 23RD
ASH GRUNWALD AT THE LOUNGE
A career spanning 12 studio albums, Grunwald has cemented his status as one of Australia’s most exciting and entertaining live musicians. Doors open 7.15pm. Tickets available at theconcourse.com.au
THE KILLER QUEEN EXPERIENCE AT NORTHS CAMMERAY
10TH AUGUST
WILLOUGHBY SYMPHONY
The signature two-hour live show The Killer Queen Experience has toured to sold out shows in the UK, Norway, Singapore, Russia, and India, and every city in Australia, and features all of Queen's greatest hits. John Blunt's uncanny resemblance of Freddie Mercury will transport you back in time! Doors open at 7.15pm and there is no age restriction for this performance. Get in quick - this will sell out! Head to norths.com.au
FOR JUST $99!
ORCHESTRA'S LAST NIGHT OF THE PROMS Mark your calendar for a night of musical revelry as the Last Night of the Proms returns to The Concourse, Chatswood. This special edition concert features music from the coronation of King Charles III with Chief Conductor Dr Nicholas Milton the Master of Ceremonies in this wildly popular annual tradition. Enjoy orchestral favourites and popular classics with plenty of opportunities to sing along and get those flags waving! willoughbysymphony.com.au
of Group Training Workouts
Based Heart Rate Technology
13TH KIDS CREATE AT ARTARMON LIBRARY
No lock in contracts
Fun craft activities for 5-10 year olds and their families on the second Tuesday of every month, 3.30-4.30pm.Artarmon Library, 139 Artarmon Road, Artarmon
// PHONE: 0414 238 238
ECOTHERAPY
Proveda's Belong Club. You'll learn to experience nature in Sarah Freeman. 10-11am, to
EXCLUSIVE READER OFFER!
BFT ST LEONARDS
BFT St Leonards are offering four weeks of training for just $99! Scan the QR code and mention NORTHSIDER sent you when you sign up. Too easy! Give us a mention too when contacting them at stleonards@bodyfittraining.com. au or phone 0414 238 238.
15-25 AUGUST LOST TERRAINS EXHIBITION
A solo exhibition by Ruth McDermott of textile and lighting related work celebrating the dramatic yet fragile Icelandic landscape. Art Space on The Concourse, 409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
The NORTH Foundation is the charity pa local hospitals including Royal North Sho Hornsby Ku-ring-gai, Mona Vale and mo
by Ku-ring-gai, Mona Vale and more.
Your health district is also home to the ol research organisation in NSW, the Kolli
Your health district is also home to the oldest medical research organisation in NSW, the
Manly Adolescent and Young Adult Hosp dedicated service for young people wi g Support the future of healthcare with a tax-deductible donation to cancer services, mental health programs, agedcare or renal research - whatever area of health that matters the most to you.
You can help us bridge the gap between what is needed today and what is possible tomorrow.
Foodie news
Discover these tasty little nuggets from around the northside
Happy 20 years!
It’s a huge happy 20th birthday to St Leonards neighbourhood fave The Moody Chef on Atchison Street. Owners Geoff Moody and George Dannaoui opened the doors to their first eatery in 2004 and have been grilling, grinding and garnishing together ever since. As well as keeping locals fed and caffeinated The Moody Chef gives back to the community with their annual fundrasiers that help support Cystic Fibrosis NSW. Cheers to that.
Petermen listed 2nd in world’s best restaurant list
Josh and Julie Niland’s sophisticated St Leonards restaurant has been named the second best in the world by a panel of international experts at the Food and Wine International Tastemakers Awards. The sustainable seafood venue on Chandos Street was the only Aussie venue to make the top 20.
WINTER WARMERS AT NORTHS
The menu’s heating up for Winter at Norths Cammeray. Seasonal specials for the colder weather include Chef Simon Kasses’ hearty Vegetable Soup, a Sliced Chat Potato and Bacon Pizza served on a traditional Italian white base, fluffy Gnocchi with a rich Wild Mushroom and Creamy Truffle Sauce and an indulgent Raspberry Brioche Bread Pudding.
Steam Engine Kim-Cheese Toastie
There’s a new toastie in town at the Steam Engine in Chatswood. The spicy Kim-Cheese is joining their two OG toasties, the classic cheese and tomato and zingy corn and jalapeno. Combining cheddar cheese, kimchi and a layer of delicious mushrooms with aioli and confit onion and bourbon relish, the sanga is then topped off with macadamia and chilli dukkah.
Foodie
A new Moon Phase
Much loved St Leonards laneway coffee and artisinal croissant joint Layers has rebranded to Moon Phase. The new name reflects a new phase for the team, which suggests more menu items are on the way in addition to their innovative and moreish buttery pastries. The venue is bigger too, having expanded into the space next door. Entry via Clarke Lane, off Oxley St, 96-98/545 Pacific Highway, St Leonards.
Served best
Looking to host a dinner party or event this Winter without the stress? Northside chef and food stylist Mila Fernandez from Served Best can help! Mila can craft a bespoke menu that’s fun and delicious. From canapes to share platters, grazing tables and more. Head to servedbest.com for info.
Omakase comes to Northbridge
Let Chef Jiho decide on dinner for you at recently opened Sailors Bay Road Japanese restaurant, Jihomakase. Omakase means ‘leave it up to you’ in Japanese, so let Jiho serve the day’s freshest sushi directly to your plate at a 10-course lunch or 20-course dinner experience. Open Mon-Sat.
Ramen Auru
Take yourself to Tokyo at Crows Nest’s new ramen hall. A time capsule of 80s Japan, the Falcon Street eatery features a bespoke retro Japanese ticket ordering machine and a dining room complete with tatami mats and low tables. It specialises in rich, comforting bowls of authentic ramen with a range of irresistable side dishes. Yakitori den Yurippi is just downstairs too. Top tip - arrive before opening to get in line!
Local eats & treats
Sunday Roast at The Belroy
Get ready for Sunday to be the best day of your week with The Belroy St Leonards’ new $27 roast!
Available from 12pm every Sunday, expect a packed plate complete with all the trimmings, including a fluffy Yorkshire pudding. Until sold out. The Belroy Hotel, 77 Christie St, St Leonards
Oh la la! Bastille Day eats
Mark Le Quatorze Julliet (14th July) with some French fare. Castlecrag’s Ganache French Pâtisserie is baking up a storm, with master pâtissier Didier Sockeel creating a range of buttery viennoiserie including classic croissants, palmiers and brioche, as well as baguettes, macarons, sweet tarts and savoury pastries. Willoughby’s La Bouitte restaurant has got you sorted from soufflés and escargot to steak frites and crème brÛlée, and S’Moque Brasserie in Chatswood is open all day, showcasing a range of crêpes from breakfast, mussels and beef bourguignon at lunch and foie gras and duck confit for dinner. C’est délicieux!
THREE OF THE BEST
CHARLIE AND FRANKS, ST LEONARDS AND NORTH SYDNEY
Two crispy fried eggs, bacon, silverbeet, hollandaise and black garlic ketchup on a milk bun.
HAMPDEN 86, ARTARMON
Bacon, two fried eggs, cheese, hash, baby spinach, relish and aioli on a milk bun.
RITUAL, NORTHBRIDGE
Two free range eggs, eye bacon, tasty cheese and bbq sauce on a soft milk bun.
For the love of
Chef Hun Loong shares about the special inspiration behind his Chatswood menu
When award-wining Malaysian Chef Junda Khoo of hatted city restaurant Ho Jiak Haymarket was looking to open a new venue in Chatswood, there was only one person he wanted to work with – his best mate, Chef Hun Loong. The pair met via Instagram in 2017 when Khoo had just opened his own restaurant and Loong was Head Chef at the celebrated Mr Wong. They bonded over a love of food and family, and when the opportunity came to work together, Loong jumped at the chance.
“I WANT TO MAKE AMAH PROUD AND SHARE THE LOVE SHE GAVE ME THROUGH FOOD”
The Chatswood Interchange restaurant was to be a love letter to his Amah, meaning grandmother in Teochew and Hokkien, and her home cooking.
“When Junda asked if I was interested in making the vision come to life, it was an easy decision!” Loong tells northsider. “All I want is to make Amah proud and to able to share the love that she gave me through my food.”
“All Amah’s cook differently,” he continues. “At Ho Jiak Haymarket, we showcase Junda’s Amah’s food, who’s from Penang. At Amah Chatswood, we showcase my Amah’s food from Ipoh. Some of our dishes might have the same names, but they’ll taste different depending on which region they’ve come from.”
Growing up, Hun Loong’s grandmother used to cook for the family, spending all day
Above: Head Chef Hun Loong in action at Amah by Ho Jiak; right: Junda Khoo and Loong.
Clockwise from above: Amah by Ho Jiak’s Malaysian Chilli Crab; Loong’s grandmother’s Peking Duck dish and his recreation of his favourite meal she used to make him - Mackerel Fish
Amah
preparing their meals – from visiting markets at sunrise for fresh ingredients to cooking for hours. Opening in 2021, the menu at Amah by Ho Jiak, a family-style Malaysian eatery, is a tribute to the special lady who inspired Loong’s love for feeding people good food.
Amah by Ho Jiak’s menu is filled with a variety of dim sum, curries, seafood, meat and vegie dishes, including Amah’s Peking Duck - tea smoked duck breast, served with ginger torch plum sauce and pancakes, and Twice Cooked Angus Char Siu Rib, which sees 42 MB3 short rib served with caramelised soy and Hainan chilli. Desserts include Iced Kacang and Mango Coconut Shaved Ice.
“Two of my favourite dishes are our handmade Mackerel Fish Ball Soup and our Malaysian Chilli Crab,” Loong continues. “The fish ball soup is the dish that really created that bond between me and Amah. It was my favourite meal she made and I really wanted to
share that memory with everyone because it’s what I believe home cooking should be.”
Loong’s Amah never wrote any of her recipes down and sadly passed away before the restaurant opened so he has painstakingly recreated this dish from memory. “It can truly be described as a labour of love,” he says.
The crab also has special personal memories for Loong.
“It’s one of the dishes Amah cooked on special occasions,” he says. “We coat ours with spicy, sweet, ginger sauce and serve it with a fried bun. Who can resist such temptation?!”
There was no question for Khoo or Loong when it came to the location for this family focussed restaurant.
“Chatswood is all about family so what better suburb is there for a family style restaurant!” Loong says. “It’s the perfect place to celebrate family and cook the food that’s closest to my heart.” Amah would be very proud. l
Ball Soup.
With Winter upon us, I wanted to share a recipe for one of my all-time favourite desserts, good old, cockle warming Apple Crumble. It’s really straightforward to make and can be knocked up in no time should unexpected guests arrive. There’s nothing more comforting than the smell of this baking as they walk through the door. I’ve added a couple of twists to the traditional recipe, such as using flour in the filling and nuts, lemon and ginger in the topping. For me, the ginger adds a little extra warmth and depth of flavour while the flour thickens the filling a touch to make it syrupy and delicious. Serve with custard, which was possibly my favourite thing to eat in the world when I was growing up (that may - or may nothave changed haha!) I hope you enjoy this Winter warmer as much as I do.
Enjoy! Will x
Crumble
Local foodie, TV presenter and cookbook author Will Stewart shares his twist on this Winter fave...
APPLE CRUMBLE WITH GINGER AND LEMON
SERVES: 6-8 TAKES: 45-60 MINUTES
INGREDIENTS:
Filling:
1kg apples, peeled and cored (I use Granny Smith)
1 tbsp flour
½ cup raw sugar
2 tbsp lemon juice
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla bean paste
Topping:
100g rolled oats
150g plain flour
METHOD:
100g brown sugar
100g hazelnuts, roughly chopped
1/2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
3 inch piece of ginger, peeled and finely grated
Zest of 1 lemon
Pinch of salt
125g unsalted butter, melted
To Serve: Lashings of custard
• Preheat oven to 180 degrees, fan forced.
• For the filling, dice the apples into 1.5-2cm pieces and put them into a large bowl. Sprinkle over the flour until evenly coated, then add the sugar, vanilla bean paste and cinnamon. Finally, add the lemon juice and mix together before transferring to an ovenproof dish.
• To make the topping, put all of the ingredients except the melted butter in the bowl you used for the filling and gently mix everything together. Pour in the butter and continue mixing until clumps begin to form, then crumble the mixture over the top of the filling.
• Bake in the oven for 30-40 minutes until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly, for about 10 minutes, to allow the filling to thicken.
• Serve with custard and enjoy!
Chatswood Blood Donor Centre
Located above Woolworths
Chatswood Interchange
436 Victoria Ave
CIRCLE OF SUPPORT The power of a wider
Proveda, formerly known as CCNB, is Northern Sydney’s leading community care provider, offering support and services for a variety of common age-related health and wellbeing concerns.
Sometimes, as we age, or when an unexpected health event happens, we need a little more assistance to help get us through. This might be as simple as someone to have a chat or a cup of tea with. It could be discussing tips and tools to aid people suffering from dementia, or it could be having that health assessment that provides valuable insights that allow you to stay living in your home safely for longer.
With one in six Australians now aged 65 and over1, it’s more important than ever to ensure family members and informal caregivers receive adequate support, resources and services across all phases of life.
Proveda community care offers what is known as a ‘wider circle of support’, providing access to an extended network of health and wellbeing support services. This support offers a valuable safety net for customers who may require assistance outside of the direct care that’s included in their disability, mental health or aged care package.
Celebrating its 30th year this year, Proveda has impacted the lives of nearly 15,000 people by building trust and community connection. Along with free programs for aged care customers, they also
support people with a disability or those in need of psychosocial recovery coaching. Proveda is committed to creating a ‘best-fit’ solution for people and their families, by creating more opportunities for connection, compassion and holistic care – at all stages and phases of life. l
FREE SERVICES INCLUDE:
THE BELONG CLUB
Dedicated to creating meaningful connections within the community to enable people to take part weekly activities such as walking groups, educational workshops and book club.
CHATTER ‘CINO
Hosted by Proveda’s dementia advisory expert, these monthly events bring people living with dementia and their carers together in a casual cafe environment to access expertise and connect with others experiencing similar circumstances.
THE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
People who access Proveda’s care services can gain additional support through their network of volunteers. Local volunteers are paired with people seeking companionship, support for day-to-day activities and more.
To learn more about the services and community programs Proveda provides, visit www.proveda.com.au
Aby Junda Khoo
ward winning Malaysian chef, Junda Khoo, is the owner of Chef’s Hat awarded eatery Ho Jiak Town Hall. He also co-owns Amah by Ho Jiak, a home-style Malaysian restaurant located northside at the Chastwood Interchange. We have one copy of his recipe book, Ho Jiak - A Taste Of Malaysia, Hardie Grant, RRP $55, to give away. For a chance to win, simply tell us what your favourite Malaysian dish is. Email hello@northsider.com.au by 31 August 2024 with ‘Junda’ in the subject line and your answer, name, address and phone number in the email. The lucky winner will be announced on 3 September 2024. Good luck!
PUZZLES with Quizmaster Clay
The Village Quiz
1. What is the name of the brewery in Naremburn? Flat Out, Flat Rock or Flat Beer?
2. Which late Australian artist attended Chatswood Public School? Lloyd Rees, Margaret Olly or Brett Whiteley?
3. What is the name of the main shopping street in Artarmon?
4. In which suburb would you find roads named Cammeray, Deepwater and Headland?
5. What is the name of the reserve in Middle Cove that looks out over Sugarloaf Bay?
6. In what year did Northbridge Golf Course open? 1935, 1945 or 1955?
7. According to the 2021 census which suburb has the highest population? St Leonards, Naremburn or Artarmon?
8. Which platform would you need to stand on to catch the train to Hornsby from Chatswood Station?
9. In which suburb would you find Henry Lawson’s Cave? Middle Cove, Naremburn or Castlecrag?
10. What is the postcode for St Leonards?
9 8 4
7 4 2
1 2 6 3 1
1
5 9 3 2 1
SUDOKU Slot the numbers 1 to 9 into every horizontal line, vertical row and 3 x 3 square.
Wordsearch
Find the names of local pubs in the grid below. Words may be found going forwards, backwards, up, down or diagonally.
Everything you need truly can be on your doorstep, or just a short, easy walk away.
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Come and see the Village and units, meet our lovely residents and friendly staff.
We’d love to see you! Be quick, available stock is limited.
We have been living at Bougainvillea for over two years now and we call it our ‘Cruise Ship on Land’. The residents and staff a now a part of our extended family. The gardens, grounds and atrium areas are beautifully maintained as is the rest of the r We have never regretted making the move to our new home. PROUDLY MANAGED BY THE SAME FAMILY SINCE 1988.
DAYS A WEEK Where else in Neutral Bay for these prices?
SEVEN DAYS A WEEK
Independent, flexible & serviced apartments. Current & soon to be available for $295,000 - $830,000.
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PROUDLY MANAGED BY THE SAME FAMILY SINCE 1988.
*Prices at the time of writing
www.bougainvillearetirement.com
Moments in time
Dive in to this stunning selection of Max Dupain images that capture the beauty of a sunny day at Sailors Bay in Northbridge.
Part of a set taken by Dupain in 1952, these evocative photographs showcase this hidden slice of Sydney Harbour and include a children’s swimming gala held at Northbridge Baths. A northsider himself for many years, Dupain moved to his Castlecrag home in The Scarp in 1953, just a year after these images were shot. His catalogue of work includes many photographs of the lower north shore. l
Ted the Puggle chats to northsiders Utah, 17 months, and Wookie, four months, labradors training for Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, whose HQ is in St Leonards
Superheroes IN TRAINING
TED: What an amazing job you have! What training do you have to do?
Wookie: Every week I go to school with my Puppy Development Advisor, to learn how to sit, stay, come, drop, play nicely with dogs and pay attention to our mum, Meredith. I learn to go to the toilet whenever she asks and walk nice and straight on the left when I have a lead on.
Utah: Because I’m big now, I only have to go to school once a fortnight. I’m very good at all the things Wookie is learning so I’m helping Mum teach him at home. I make sure Mum stops at every curb to check for cars before crossing and stops at the top of stairs too.
T: What else do you learn about?
U: Besides how to be an excellent dog, we have to learn to be calm and listen to Mum in scary situations. We go to noisy shops and busy roads to make sure I can remember my commands when there’s lots of distractions.
Sometimes dogs want to play with me when I’m concentrating and it’s hard to ignore them. I feel a bit rude when people want to pat me or chat when I have my jacket on but I’m really not allowed to talk to them when I’m practicing. One day, if I become a real Guide Dog, it’s important people don’t interrupt me. My mum can see, but my next Handler will most likely have low vision or blindness.
W: Utah is sooo clever. I want to be just like him when I grow up! Mum says I’m doing really well but she hasn’t taken me to scary places yet.
T: What do you like best about your training? Both: WE GET LOTS OF TREATS!
T: Tell us a bit about your Puppy Raiser, Meredith. How does she help you?
U: I’ll live with Mum for just over a year. She loves us very much and she makes sure we know what to do and that we’re learning all the time. I have to do exams to see what career path I will be chosen for, and then I’ll get to go home for a bit before my next job. I might be a Guide Dog or a Therapy Dog or a Court Companion Dog, or even a Breeding Dog.
W: What are you talking about? What exams?!
T: What do you do in your time off?
W: I sleep a lot. I’m still only little.
U: I just have to be with Mum. I follow her everywhere and sit at her feet. Even when she’s in the bathroom!
Us with Mum’s other doggo, Demi the Ridgeback
Wookie with Mum, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT Puppy Raiser Meredith
U: We like to play together a lot and if Demi is in a good mood, she’ll play with us too.
W: I have to pick my times when I can play with Demi. She thinks I’m annoying...
T: Why are you so good at helping people?
U: Mum had a dog before me called Eric and he’s now a working Guide Dog. Eric was very kind when I was a puppy and let me chew his ears. I’m trying to be like him and teach Wookie how to play nice and he copies me too. Since I was a pup I’ve been told how special and important I am so I want to make sure I live up to that and become a Guide Dog to help a person with low vision or blindness one day.
T: If someone wanted to help train puppies, what would they need to do?
U: We aren’t allowed to be left alone for a long time so they’d need to work from home or have a really nice boss like Mum does. She loves us coming to the office. They’ll need to take us to school and spend time doing our homework. They should know they’ll cry a lot when they say goodbye when we leave for our formal Guide Dog training.
W: They have to be patient and not get cross when we make mistakes or have accidents.
U: Anyone considering becoming a Puppy Raiser can visit the Guide Dogs NSW/ACT website for more info. Mum says it’s an absolute joy and she’s going to do it forever.
Wookie, left, and Utah are in training to be the best boys
Local’s last word.
Eleni and Stefan Endt and their two boys Nico and Alex have lived in Willoughby for 12 years
Our favourite place for coffee is…The Coffee Doctors on Willoughby Road. You select your beans based on the region and flavour profile you like and they make it to perfection. Luke’s always up for a chat too. The best meal we’ve had in the area was at…Small Bar in Crows Nest. An absolute fave for the jalapeno poppers and the kids love how the french fries come in a special stand in a paper bag. If we want to have a beer or a wine, we go to…we love the Foxtrot in Crows Nest for date night. They have delicious cocktails and the fireplace is divine. Our favourite local walk is… through the bush at Hallstrom Park. It’s super kid and dog friendly and we end
My fave local takeaway is… Attimos Italian in Northbridge for the best pizza and pasta in town. The Carbonara is to die for!
the walk at the top of the hill near the Incinerator Café for Sydney’s yummiest banana bread.
Our fave local spots for kids include…I asked the kids to help answer this one and they said the new Wadanggari Park in St Leonards. It has really high climbing equipment and slides which they love, plus it’s next to the new library
which has a huge selection for kids of all ages. An ideal day would start at the park and end up with us eating a feast at Osaka Teppanyaki down the hill.
The secret spot we love is… Warner Park in Northbridge. It’s great for picnics as it’s a small gated park with plenty of tables and chairs for the whole family as well as a flying fox and play area. It’s been a fave since Covid lockdown picnic days!
The things about living in this area we love the most are…the many options for family walks, the tree lined streets, the great local schools and last but not least, the super friendly people.
Three words I’d use to describe this area are... friendly, green and lovely
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