The Beast - January 2016

Beast the

THE MONTHLY MAGAZINE FOR SYDNEY'S BEACHES OF THE EAST • JANUARY 2016

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Welcome to January 2016... Time To Start Again Words and Picture Dan Hutton

W

elcome to the January 2016 edition of The Beast – the monthly magazine for Sydney’s Beaches of the East.

With the sound of Auld Lang Syne ringing in our ears, it can mean only one thing: the New Year has arrived. To this day, we still have absolutely no idea what Auld Lang Syne actually means, but a cup of kindness sounds delicious and this warm weather has got us thirsty for a beverage – you’d best make that two cups of kindness, bartender; better still, we’ll take the whole bottle!

The year 2015 has been and gone and we’re still not riding hover boards, despite the predictions of Back To The Future Part II (October 21, 2015 was the day in the future that Marty McFly and Doc travelled to in

order to save Marty’s children).

Instead, we all walk around like zombies staring into a small screen that’s powerful enough to organise the majority of our everyday lives. Don’t you just love progress!

January is a big month here in the Eastern Beaches. A few of the many highlights include Flickerfest, which runs from January 8 to 17, the return of Vibes On A Summers Day on January 24, and Australia Day

(and all that it brings, including the Every Man & His Dog event down at Watsons Bay) on January 26. I’m sure I could fill up this entire column telling you exactly what’s happening in the local area, but that’s what the rest of the magazine is for.

On the cover this month is Hollywood stunner Radha Mitchell. Not only has she appeared on celluloid alongside the likes of Colin Farrell, Denzel Washington, Chloe Sevigny, Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet, she’s also starring in one this year’s shortlisted Flickerfest short films.

As always, there’s plenty of other good stuff inside the mag this month, so we hope you enjoy reading the January 2016 edition of The Beast.

Cheers, Dan & James

Family Laughter Memories Christmas Holidays Dinners Weekends Friends

SPECIAL MOMENTS IN LIFE HAPPEN AT HOME

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8 The Beast | January 2016

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10 The Beast | January 2016

Contents January 2016 • Issue 132

8 11 12 14 20 22 24 24 26 27 49 50

Welcome Note Contents Pearls of Wisdom Letters Local Bloke Local Chick Thumbs Dogs Local News Beastpop I Beastpop II Calendar

51 52 58 60 62 63 64 66 68 69 70 72

Local Tradies Interview Sports Bits Local Photos I Rupert’s Rant Beastpop III Local Wildlife Fish ‘n’ Tips Underwater Wildlife Tide Chart Horse's Mouth QTips

74 76 78 80 82 83 84 86 88 96 98 98

Travel Bug Street Style This Sporting Life Sexy Time Reviews Arts Bits Bandage Local Photos II Food & Wine Beast Brainteasers Beardy From Hell Trivia Solutions

'Just Fishing' at Darling Point, by Gavin Allen. Check out @sydneysurfers for more.

• I promise to eliminate the word ‘luxury’ from my vocabulary, especially when it comes to food items like granola. According to the Oxford Dictionary, luxury is ‘a state of great comfort or elegance involving great expense’ and Pearl doubts that eating ‘luxury granola’ will result in granola envy and exclamations of: “Wow, Gina Rinehart is so elegant and rich because she eats luxury granola.” Dispense with the wank!

Take a good look at this, you selfish anti-vaccination hippie dickheads.

Pearl’s 2016 New Year’s Resolutions Words Pearl Bullivant Picture Anne Tivax

F

litting from party to party, the very last thing on my gin-addled mind is the emotional welfare of the Eastern Suburbs masses. But, darlings, thankfully for you my tyrannical editor has begged me to think of others and provide bespoke New Year’s resolutions to those who are accustomed to contracting out the mundane in life, like lice and dog poo removal, child rearing, cooking and homework supervision.

And since I can never resist an opportunity to inflict my words of wisdom upon the peeps of the Eastern Suburbs, and because I can never say no to my charming editor, I have relinquished that bottle of Tanqueray to impart my 2016 New

12 The Beast | January 2016

Year’s resolutions to the hip, happening and beautiful of the world. Peace, love and Kombis to you all, as you resolve to adhere to the following: • I will think twice before reproducing for the trendy purpose of adding a fourth, fifth or sixth child to my brood. Over-population doesn’t fit comfortably with the ‘Eco Earth Mother’ image that one loves to conjure up in the Camilla kaftan, and while large families are the ultimate statement of wealth, I will vow to flaunt my purchasing power by upgrading the SUV rather than producing yet another designer-clad child who will ultimately be cared for by a nanny or the mythical ‘village’.

• I will consider the plight of the homeless and disenfranchised before allowing my luxury Eastern Suburbs abode to feature in the House and Garden magazine alongside lifestyle quotes such as “the owners of this home in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs now celebrate the simple things against a luxury backdrop” or “a busy family dreamed of a bathroom that would provide a calm space to begin and end the day, but they also wanted a room with personality and character”. Embarrassment in high gloss is social death!

• I will immunise my child, remembering that I risked the possibility of chemical overload, leaky gut and neurological damage by submitting to vaccines for hepatitis, typhoid, encephalitis and yellow fever before embarking on the pre-kiddy hippy trail through Asia and Africa. I will also remember the thousands of children who have died in the developing world from vaccine-preventable diseases, and the older Australians who suffered the devastating effects of polio and measles in the pre-immunisation era. There are far safer ways to play at being a bohemian.

Unlike four children, four resolutions are enough for any affluent and educated Eastern Suburbs darling to handle, so before I get carried away it’s farewell to the last drops of another bottle of gin and hello to 2016!

Love Pearl xx

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The Beast's Monthly Mailbag Sent in by The people of the Eastern Suburbs

UNETHICAL CHANGE TO ETHICS FORM As the mum of a young boy attending primary school, I was appalled to read the story about the removal of ethics classes from New South Wales school enrolment forms.

My young son attends ethics classes at his school. I believe these classes provide him with an opportunity to think for himself, to ponder philosophical questions, and to debate his point of view with others. He is given the chance to express himself, and importantly to experience conflicting views so he can better understand why people may not agree on certain issues. I feel strongly that ethics classes help my child to be more empathetic.

I'm not going to share my personal opinion about religion because it's, well, personal. My views are my own, and I believe the only people I have the right to influence right now are myself and my child. The idea is that he'll develop his own opinions along the way as he grows up, and I look forward to hearing and discussing those opinions.

I don't understand why a religious faction would feel so threatened by non-religious ethics discussions that they would want to make it harder for parents to provide this opportunity to their children. Or why a political leader

14 The Beast | January 2016

would do a deal that allows this form of censorship to occur.

Thanks to people like Lisa Smith and Teresa Russell my son is being given the opportunity to think for himself. This is too valuable a thing to allow politicians to play with. I for one will be writing to Mike Baird to complain.

Jacqui Bundy, Maroubra

I don't understand why a religious faction would feel so threatened by non-religious ethics discussions that they would want to make it harder for parents to provide this opportunity to their children.

THANKS BRONTE FALL RESCUE TEAM Hello, I had a fall six weeks ago on Macpherson Street in Bronte on a Friday afternoon at about 5.10pm. I would like to thank the people who came to my aid.

I wanted to let them know that I am okay, and that I appreciate the care and concern shown by all. Thanks again for your help.

Kerry Hall, Botany

STAR SIGNS IN POOR TASTE Dear Editor, I am always pleased to read your articles and useful information in The Beast. However, the recent entry under your star signs page for Scorpio in your December edition was in extremely poor taste and not even remotely funny.

Who ever thought such an image could raise even a glimmer of a smile? Yuck. I am not a prude and enjoy robust and clever humour, but Beardy from Hell needs replacing with someone with wit and genuinely clever humour! I am a recently converted reader to your publication who is now likely to resort to my previous habit of simply binning it.

Disappointed.

Di Drew, Clovelly CUTTING CAR PARK SPEED BUMPS Dear Editors, The speed bumps in Bronte Cutting car park are both dangerous and useless. The danger is for cyclists and walkers or runners who encounter these slippery, awkward lumps in the road, which are both skid and trip hazards.

The alleged purpose is to slow vehicles, and for this they are useless. When the Cutting is empty, vehicles dodge around the ends of the humps and do not slow down. When the Cutting car park is full, vehicles move slowly through the crowds anyway.

Let us bring some sense to Council and ask for their removal. Similar humps outside the Bondi Pavilion are removed for the City to Surf, acknowledging that they are a trip hazard for runners. This is surely a similar situation.

Yours faithfully, Mora Main, Waverley SUSPICIOUS MINDS ON AMALGAMATIONS Your correspondent Duncan Horscroft brings up some

relevant points about the forthcoming council amalgamations. Waverley and Randwick ratepayers have every reason to suspect Waverley Council's motives for rushing to get in bed with Randwick Council. Even Jeff Kennett, who led the council amalgamation process in Victoria, is on record as saying that "the trouble with voluntary mergers is they're often for self-interest, not for what is necessary for the good governance interests of the state".

It really makes you wonder, especially as very few councils had volunteered so quickly.

Unfortunately, by the time we find out that all this hasn't been such a good idea, it will be too late. What do they say about mushrooms again? Kept in the dark, and fed...

Anonymous, Bondi WHERE’S TRIPPING WITH TODD? I have been reading The Beast since its inception and always go to Todd’s story first, instead of some of the long-winded articles and letters that appear each month. However, in this December month’s edition, there’s no Todd.

I do not care about reading about gangrenous genitals or circumcised lovers. I can pick these subjects from a medical magazine. If Todd’s column has gone west, so has my interest in your magazine. Bring back Todd.

John Maguire, Bronte P.S. this is a shorter letter than what usually appears.

THANKS FOR THE COOGEE HELP Dear Beast, I wanted to send a big thank you out to some lovely people who helped me when I fell in a pothole on Alfreda Street, Coogee on Saturday, November 21.

I was crossing the road to get to my car when I fell, and was so grateful to the people who came to help me. I was in a bit of shock at the time, and

16 The Beast | January 2016

as it turns out I broke a bone in my ankle. Thank you to all the people who helped me that day.

I just wanted to say how much I appreciated it.

Bel Kemp, Randwick PEARL’S ARTICLE OFFENSIVE I am deeply disturbed by the article portraying Christ on the cross with shopping bags. For Christians this is an abomination! As we celebrate Christ's birth and acknowledge Him as our Saviour and Lord, to see Him trivialised in this way is unacceptable and offensive.

Jacqui Guy, Coogee

I do not care about reading about gangrenous genitals or circumcised lovers.

I can pick these subjects from a medical magazine.

If Todd’s column has gone west, so has my interest in your magazine.

RIDICULOUS ARTICLE SHORT OF THE MARK Kieran Blake’s article titled ‘Mother Banned From Playground For Interacting With Her Children’ is one of the most ridiculous stories I've ever had the misfortune to read. While I suspect it was some kind of attempt at humour, it fell well short of the mark. I also suspect that the author of the 'article' may not have had the opportunity to spend much time in any playground ever.

I have had plenty, and one of the most satisfying parts of visiting these places is witnessing parents interact with their children, and outwardly display their love and care. It's also been my experience that parents will assist a child who is not

their own if they need some assistance.

Lastly, as for drinking coffee and using phones, I wasn't aware that parents weren't also allowed to enjoy at least some aspects of life that the rest of society has the ability to enjoy with much more freedom and frequency.

Jason, North Bondi THE A-Z GUIDE TO RECYCLING I refer to an article in the November issue of The Beast (The A-Z Guide To Recycling), and provide some additional information from the REDcycle program regarding recycling.

In late 2012, the REDcycle program created a revolution in soft plastics recycling, allowing householders to recycle a wider range of soft plastics by returning them to more than 480 dropoff points at Coles supermarkets. Soft or flexible plastics are any plastics that can be easily scrunched into a ball or broken, when crushed by hand. They include bread, pasta, chip and lolly packets, biscuit packs and trays, and old 'green bags'.

The plastic packaging is processed in Australia and sent to local manufacturer and program partner Replas, which converts it into recycled plastic products such as outdoor furniture and signage for schools and communities. In addition, the thin foil-like plastic sleeves and packets that some biscuits, chocolate bars, crackers and chips come in are also fine to be recycled via the program at the supermarket.

Margaret Scott ABALONE CONFUSION Dear Pascale, I thought I’d write to correct you and inform the readers of The Beast that the information you provided in your article in the December edition about the collection of abalone is incorrect.

It is understandable that you made the mistake because our

beloved Department of Primary Industries and State Government of NSW have in fact published two conflicting sets of rules relating to the collection of abalone.

One set, as part of the Sydney and Northern Beaches Recreational Fishing Fact Sheet (www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/ assets/pdf_file/0009/329319/ Factsheet-737.pdf), shows incorrect, out-dated information.

The second set of correct details can be found at www. dpi.nsw.gov.au/fisheries/recreational/regulations/sw/sw-bagand-size and in further detail at www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/ assets/pdf_file/0003/229746/ Abalone-Closure.pdf.

I, too, had come across this conflicting information in my own enquiries, but rather than take either as the actual rule I contacted NSW Fisheries and had them confirm which was in fact true.

The correct information is that abalone in New South Wales have a bag and possession limit of two abalone over 11.7cm (long length), with an added restriction that allows the collection of said invertebrates between Port Stephens and Jervis Bay only on weekends and public holidays adjacent to weekends.

It’s worth noting that it is illegal to collect abalone and all other shellfish within the waters of Sydney Harbour, Port Hacking.

I hope this clears the situation up.

Kind regards, Avid Angler STOP THE CEMETERY SCAREMONGERING Dear Editor, In her letter in the October edition of your magazine, former council employee Bronwyn Kelly suggests that Waverley Council has a long-term agenda of selling Waverley Cemetery to developers. This is out and out scaremongering. There is nothing at all to suggest that Council

18 The Beast | January 2016

plans to sell Waverley Cemetery to developers. In fact, the support by Council of the State Heritage Listing Application for Waverley Cemetery that was made by our group, together with its decision in favour of National Heritage Listing, demonstrates that Council is fully committed to the long-term conservation of this significant heritage asset. If they wanted to develop it, they would never have handed over control to heritage experts.

Ms Kelly criticises Council for accepting a recent report from accounting firm Deloitte that concluded that Ms Kelly’s suggestions are not financially viable. She implies that there is something wrong with Council accepting advice from what she calls “big end of town consultants”. Council commissioned experts from one of the world’s top four accounting firms, and it is entirely appropriate that Council should accept their advice.

Ms Kelly also claims that there is excessive vandalism at Waverley Cemetery, which leads her to suggest that Council should erect a fence costing in excess of $14 million around the cemetery to lock it off from the public. The Deloitte report described the cemetery’s record keeping as Dickensian, so it would be most unwise to take its vandalism records at face value. Having reviewed a selection of the records that were compiled during Ms Kelly’s tenure, I can only agree with Mayor Sally Betts. Vandalism levels are not excessive. The situation has been overstated by including things that are simply not vandalism. Furthermore, a lot of the incidents recorded relate to very minor damage to the perimeter fence. Parts of the fence were not maintained and were falling apart anyway, and some damage is probably caused by people frustrated with a lack of access. Make access more difficult and that problem will only

get worse. It is true that some headstones have collapsed, but a lot of that is age-related and not the result of vandalism.

Furthermore, it wasn’t reported to the police.

The idea that big fences stop vandalism doesn’t stack up.

Rookwood Cemetery is surrounded by a fortress-like fence, topped with barbed wire and CCTV. That didn’t stop someone destroying 70 gravestones there last year. Surely the better solution would be to keep the cemetery as open as possible and encourage people to use it. More people means more vigilance and less opportunity for vandalism.

The conservation of old cemeteries is an issue all around the world. There are a multitude of as yet unexplored operational and funding models. Council needs to get moving, consider them all and find the best solution.

Penny Mora, Residents for Waverley Cemetery

The Beast Publisher The Beast Pty Ltd ABN 32 143 796 801 www.thebeast.com.au Editors james@thebeast.com.au dan@thebeast.com.au Advertising Enquiries advertising@thebeast.com.au www.thebeast.com.au/advertise Circulation 61,000 copies of The Beast are distributed every month.

55,500 are placed in mailboxes and 5,500 in local shopfronts.

PEFC Certified The Beast is printed on paper sourced from sustainably managed forests.

Letters To The Editor Please email your feedback to letters@thebeast.com.au.

Life is Peachy.

Local Bloke... John Mahony From Clovelly Interview James Hutton Picture Grant Brooks

C

lovelly local John Mahony is a proud member of a middle-aged band and has a cosmetic medical practice in Paddington. John shares his local favourites with The Beast‌ How long have you lived here?

Upon returning from my year of backpacking in 1991, the only place I wanted to live was Coogee, then in 1998 we moved to Clovelly and have been here ever since.

What's your favourite beach?

Each of the Eastern Beaches has its charms. Having them all here is like having a harem, I guess.

What's your favourite eatery?

La Scala restaurant above the Light Brigade in Paddington, not just for the food but for their great enthusiastic attitude.

Where do you like to have a drink? Wherever my family, friends and colleagues are. It may

20 The Beast | January 2016

sound unsophisticated, but if I am with family, friends or colleagues then the place is immaterial and the kind of drink doesn't matter.

Do you have a favourite sporting team? The Stampede Under 14s basketball team, coached by the amazing Ino Maquirang. My son Alex is their star point guard.

What music are you into at the moment? The Electro MAGGOTs. You might not have heard of them, but they are going to be big. Oh, and by the way, MAGGOT is an acronym for Middle Aged Guys Going Off Tonight.

the basketball thing. Then there might be band practice with my fellow Electro MAGGOTs. What do you do for work? I have a cosmetic medical practice, Peach Cosmetic Medicine in Paddington.

What's your favourite thing about work? Everyone is happy.

Whatever the presenting symptom of the patient, I can nearly always improve them and help them, and they are almost invariably grateful and happy with the improvements achieved.

Who is your favourite person?

My wife Flavia, with whom there is never a dull moment.

Do you have a favourite quote?

What about a lyric? "And in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make" - Abbey Road.

What do you get up to on the weekends? Watching school sport on Saturdays, and whichever Scots team my son is playing for. We're working on

Any other words of wisdom for readers of The Beast? I'm the wrong guy for wisdom. I'm like the ferryman at the end of Siddhartha. I’m just doing my thing.

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Local Chick... Ischa Ropert From The Spot Interview James Hutton Picture Grant Brooks

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Spot. These guys craft their drinks from the heart, and they ooze soul and style.

help clients develop the inner resources to create a life that thrills, challenges and grows them.

How long have you lived here?

16 years on and off. I moved back from Paris in January.

What music are you into at the moment? ‘Dance Me to the End of Love’ by The Civil Wars. I also like Ella Fitzgerald for writing, Winterbourne for chilling, and classic 80s dance for inspiration.

What's your favourite thing about work? Witnessing the magic that happens when clients transform their lives and relationships. This work proves the depth of human creativity, passion and potential available when we trust ourselves, draw on our unique strengths and give space to our ideas.

he Spot’s Ischa Ropert is a Human Potential Coach who specialises in self-development, authentic relationships and optimal living. Ischa shares her local favourites with The Beast…

What's your favourite beach?

Coogee. I love the mélange between the laidback eclectic energy of the travellers and the no bullshit Aussie gruff of long time locals.

What's your favourite eatery? Little Kitchen on Arden Street - great service, rustic atmosphere and an offbeat menu. My French fix is Café de France on Havelock and my sweet tooth loves Kurtosh.

Where do you like to have a drink? I can’t go past the rockin’ cocktails at Bat Country at the

22 The Beast | January 2016

Who is your favourite person?

I try to make it me, as I am the only person I can’t escape in life.

Some days are tougher than others, but it’s worth the effort.

What do you get up to on the weekends? I have young children so it’s the beach, park, hanging out with friends and barbecues.

My husband is French so we explore other parts of Sydney.

What do you do for work? I’m a Human Potential Coach specialising in self-development, authentic relationships and optimal living. I

Do you have a favourite quote?

"We are at crossroads in every moment, whether we play small or step up and be seen, heard and have consequence."

Any other words of wisdom for readers of The Beast? Being honest is not having an opinion.

It is showing up to your life in all your vulnerability. We are all born creators with something unique to offer. Our journey in life is to realise it.

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Malinka Age 2 years Sex Female Breed English Staffy x Weight 12.5kg

Proper legend.

Thumbs Up ANDRE BOTHA – Google this bloke and watch him save pro surfer Evan Geiselman at big Pipeline. He is our hero.

CHRISTMAS TREE SMELL – While the pine needles are a pain in the arse, that distinct smell of Christmas tree can’t be beat.

PERTH STANDLICK – The former Beast cover star took out his first WQS surfing event and a handy $8000 over in Taiwan last month.

GEORGE FROM SURFISH – Thanks to the Bondi beachside café manager for lending The Beast an umbrella for our cover shoot.

VIBES ON A SUMMER’S DAY – One of Sydney’s best dance music festivals returns to its roots at Bondi Pavilion on January 24.

Malinka is a sensitive, sweet girl who loves to have humans around her. She was a hit and run victim early this year and was taken to the vet with a fractured radius and ulna. She has been plated and pinned and is recovering well. The drivers of the offending vehicle are hopefully suffering some bad karma. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Her adoption cost is $400. For further details, give Doggie Rescue a call on 9486 3133, email monika@doggierescue.com or visit the website at www.doggierescue.com.

Siska Age 10 years Sex Female Breed English Staffy x Weight 17kg Siska is a sweet, gentle girl. She is not needy of company, yet she’s very affectionate around people. Siska is hard of hearing and would benefit from having another dog around. She walks well on loose lead and likes a stroll as well as a jog.

She really enjoys pats and cuddles. Siska does not want to live with cats. She comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. Her adoption cost is $400. Give Doggie Rescue a call on 9486 3133, email monika@doggierescue.com or visit the website at www.doggierescue.com.

Thumbs Down CHRISTMAS TREE DISPOSAL – Real Christmas trees look and smell great, but getting rid of them in mid-January is always a punish.

FOAM BOARD CONFUSION – It’s now official.

You may not ride your foam surfboard in between the red and yellow flags.

NON-RATINGS TELEVISION – All I can say is thank Christ for Foxtel, Netflix, Stan, Presto and all the other streaming services out there.

MARK MATHEWS’ SHOULDER – The local big wave charger took on massive Pe’ahi (Jaws) and had his shoulder ripped from its socket. Ouch!

INTERNATIONAL ROAMING – Don’t do it. Full stop. Just buy a sim card at your destination and text your number to those who need to know it.

24 The Beast | January 2016

Whiskey Age 8 years Sex Male Breed Cairn Terrier x Weight 4.6kg Whiskey is a gentle, calm dog. He is affectionate with people and social with other dogs. He does not make a fuss, but he’s appreciative if someone gives him a little love. It is rare to hear him bark. He came from the pound with severe dental disease and had 16 teeth removed, but is feeling much better now. He comes desexed, C5 vaccinated, heartworm free and microchipped. His adoption cost is $350. Give Doggie Rescue a call on 9486 3133, email monika@doggierescue.com or visit the website at www.doggierescue.com.

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It's only a matter of time.

Meters Matter As Council Merger Approaches Words Kate Myers Picture Randy Wicks

F

or many in the Eastern Suburbs, the daily threat of parking inspectors is a very real one. Parking meters complicate the already competitive parking situation around our local restaurants, beaches and shops, resulting in nasty fines when that meeting, meal or swim takes slightly longer than expected.

Randwick residents, however, are generally blissfully unaware of this struggle, with the majority of local parking zones restricted by generous two and three-hour limits, and only a couple of small areas of metered parking at Coogee Beach.

Though these meter-free zones are still restricted by time, there is a sense that the collection of further council revenue through

26 The Beast | January 2016

meters is an unappealing alternative.

When Randwick Mayor Noel D’Souza recently announced his opposition to the introduction of parking meters in the Randwick Council area, it came as a welcome relief for residents and business owners alike, assuring them of an unchanging Randwick Council policy, despite a change in leadership.

“There are no plans to introduce on-street parking meters,” Cr D’Souza said. “Anyone who suggests to the contrary is misinformed or is being deliberately mischievous.”

Cr D’Souza’s comments support the Randwick area’s long history of resistance to parking meters. In 2005, Clovelly residents protested vociferously

against the proposed introduction of meters into their streets for fear it would change the accessibility of the beach and businesses. Despite attempts by the council to provide exemptions for residents, the plan ultimately failed, beginning a decade long opposition to metered parking in the area.

The recent need for Council’s assurance regarding metered parking stems from the planned amalgamation of Randwick and Waverley Councils to form a sort of ‘super council’ with a shared administration.

It has been suggested that such a move would have a number of benefits, whilst maintaining staffing levels, fees and rates, and allowing included suburbs to continue to exist largely as is.

However, the prevalence of parking meters in the Waverley Council area is in stark contrast to their virtual absence in the Randwick area, leading many residents to voice concerns about the future of Randwick’s parking situation should the two councils amalgamate.

For local businesses, the introduction of parking meters could see a decline in the popularity of areas like The Spot and Coogee Bay Road, particularly for the restaurants and hotels that attract consistently large crowds.

Regardless of the proposed council merger, the resistance to metered parking remains as strong as ever, with Randwick residents determined to maintain the current status quo.

Thus far, Randwick Council has assured residents that this will not be jeopardised.

“There was never any plan to introduce parking meters into the Randwick Council area,” a spokesperson for Cr D’Souza said.

“Any merger with Waverley Council would be based on analysis of the Randwick Council service model. There would be no change in the current parking situation in either area.”

Does the Randwick Municipality need more metered parking areas?

Interview and Pictures Marcus Braid

Maria, Randwick

Adam, Maroubra

I don’t think so. There’s enough metered parking as it is.

You need a car in Sydney, so when you stop somewhere it’s nice to have the chance for free parking.

No. This (Maroubra) is one of the last beaches that’s free, so I would say that I don’t think there should be. You don’t want it being like Bondi.

Alex, Bondi

Branka, Coogee

I don’t have a car, but why shouldn’t there be metered parking? I don’t know. I don’t think parking is a huge problem in the area.

We don’t have a lot of metered parking, but why would you want to pay for parking? The cheaper, the better.

Michael, Coogee

No, it’s nice to have free parking. I don’t go to Bondi because of the parking; I stay here. You meter parking and it brings a bit of unhappiness to people.

It’s been a long struggle to keep it free.

Caminne, Coogee

I don’t know, because I don’t have a car. I don’t really mind, but it’s definitely a problem for people who have cars.

January 2016 | The Beast 27

A marked improvement.

Former Swiss Grand Set To Open Its Doors After Facelift Words Marcus Braid Picture Grant Brooks

I

t survived a controversial development application process and sparked community uproar, but Bondi Beach’s newest boutique multi-purpose development is ready to open this month.

Pacific Bondi, the wide-ranging redeveloped Swiss Grand Hotel, offers the only high-end hotel apartments on Bondi Beach, along with residential apartments and premium retail space. The apartments have proven both popular and particularly expensive, with one ‘Lighthouse’ apartment selling for $21 million.

Despite this, Waverley Mayor Sally Betts said she hasn’t given the development much thought.

“It is what it is,” she said.

“It’s approved, so I haven’t given it much thought. It looks good.

“The old hotel was such a mixed architectural design that I don’t think it added anything to the general landscape of Campbell Parade.”

Cr Betts asserted that Campbell Parade is looking better than it has looked in a long while.

“I understand that the new development will have lots of greenery, so I’m quite looking forward to seeing that,” she said. “There’s going to be new outdoor seating, and I think people will be really impressed with that as well.”

One of the first businesses to open within the development will be the 69-apartment QT Bondi.

Each of the boutique, high-end hotel apartments will offer the ultimate in chic beachside glamour, individually styled to capture the quintessential Bondi

experience, and fully furnished with custom-made touches by one of Australia’s renowned hotel designers, Nic Graham.

QT Bondi has commissioned Australian-born, London-based artist Shaun Gladwell to be the featured artist, with permanent displays of artworks inspired by the Bondi landscape.

“Shaun Gladwell draws extensively on the intense physical energy of the local context, blending kinetic movement with the landscape to evoke a brooding, almost calming and still sense of romance,” said QT Hotels and Resorts Art Curator Amanda Love.

“This provides a fascinating juxtaposition against the almost extreme sport experience to provide a thoughtfully measured perspective that truly connects with the Bondi experience.”

Pacific Bondi Beach will offer exclusive local retail experiences across surfing, art and fashion, as well as a number of new restaurants.

However, not everyone is impressed with the new development. The effect of alcohol consumption and an increase in the number of licensed premises has concerned Lenore Kulakauskas, the convener of the Bondi Beach Precinct Committee, despite the original request for a liquor store within the complex being knocked back.

“The Swiss Grand (Pacific Bondi) doesn’t look too bad and it fits in okay,” Ms Kulakauskas said. “We fought for many years about things like height, and what it was going to look like. In the end, they got all the things that they asked for, so that’s just the way things go. Our main concern at the moment is about the impact of these licensed premises.

“You’re looking at another potential 1,600 people coming down in that area of the Swiss Grand, which is already a bit of an area that police take note of.

We have so much alcohol down there, you could swim in it.”

A Long Road Ahead Words Madeleine Gray

O Australia's premier short film festival.

Flickerfest Returns For 25th Year Of Short Film Words Kate Myers Picture Faris Philippi

T

he return of Flickerfest to Bondi this month marks not only the beginning of a new year, but also another season of quality Australian film as the festival celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Known for showcasing thoughtprovoking, relevant and creative short films, the event has gained a reputation as Australia’s premier short film festival.

As the only Academy and BAFTA accredited short film festival in the country, Flickerfest showcases the highest quality Australian film making talent, and provides a platform for new filmmakers to flourish.

“The event is about the local as well as the global,” festival director and Bondi resident Bronwyn Kidd said. “We receive entries from all over the world, but lots of great entries from local film makers as well. It’s the A-list of short films.”

The focus for this year’s event is ‘classic cinema’, with a Marilyn Monroe ‘Happy Birthday’ inspired trailer, featuring Bondi’s own Bruce ‘Hoppo’ Hopkins, a testament to the mix of film and community that the festival seeks to promote.

While the event is aimed primarily at those 15 years

30 The Beast | January 2016

and over, it also includes the FlickerKids program, which provides those aged 4-12 with the chance to engage with the world of film.

“It’s about involving the whole community,” Ms Kidd said.

Bondi Pavillion is set to host the event again this year, making the most of the indoor theatre, and the outdoor amphitheatre for the main screenings at 8:45pm.

“The Pavilion is such a great venue,” Ms Kidd said, “Our home is Bondi.”

Ms Kidd acknowledged that Waverley Council has been instrumental in the success of the event, allowing art festivals like Flickerfest to have a longstanding relevance in the local community.

Set amidst the iconic backdrop of Bondi Beach, the festival offers more than just film, with organic food and drinks served every day at the panoramic festival themed bar.

“Swim, grab a drink and a bite to eat,” Ms Kidd said, “And all under the stars at the iconic Bondi Pavilion.”

Flickerfest will run from January 8 to 17. For more information, visit www.flickerfest.com.au.

ver 10,000 Australians are living with spinal cord injuries right now. Whether their injuries be the result of a fall or an accident, or a pre-existing medical condition, these people all share one thing in common: dependence on others for physical and emotional support.

Many of these people are living as inpatients at hospitals – as is the case at the Prince of Wales Hospital’s Spinal Cord Injury Unit, which is one of only two acute spinal units in NSW. But full-time care for inpatients is incredibly expensive, as is the technology necessary to assist patients in the long recovery process. This is where you come in.

The Prince of Wales Hospital Foundation (POWHF) has partnered with Inspired Adventures to mastermind an incredible opportunity that benefits both patients and allies alike: the El Camino Trek for Spinal Cord Injury Patients. Running between September 4 and 13, 2016, this trek is a chance for those wanting to help to raise money for the POWHF to do so whilst simultaneously undertaking an incredible physical and psychological challenge in one of the most beautiful and culturally rich places in the world, following in the footsteps of the Romans, the Knights Templar, and religious pilgrims throughout time.

Adventurers are assisted in brainstorming and executing fundraising plans, and while physical fitness is necessary, previous trekking experience is not. This is an extremely worthwhile opportunity, and one that we encourage our readers to engage in wholeheartedly.

To get involved and for more information, visit www.powhf. org.au/el-camino-trek.

e v E s ’ r a e New Y

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Concession $15 ($20 at gate) pensioners, registered carers, children 5yrs - 16yrs

Tickets from moshtix.com.au or call 1300 438 849 (booking fees apply) Limited tickets after 9pm at gate Tickets also available at Waverley Customer Service Centre 55 Spring Street, Bondi Junction

Bits & Pieces From Around The Beaches...

Words Marcus Braid Picture Jim Barlow

MOVES TO THE BEACH FIT FOR THE FUTURE Waverley Council’s proposed merger with Randwick City Council has been deemed 'fit for the future' by the State Government and the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). Waverley Council has controversially hailed it as great news for our community, with the mayors of both councils pleased local identity will be preserved. Both Waverley and Randwick were against a proposed ‘Global City’. According to reports, a final decision on a proposed merger will be made

by Christmas. Please visit www.waverley.nsw.gov.au.

FAREWELL TO HIGH CROSS PARK TREE A diseased and dying significant tree in High Cross Park, Randwick is to be removed after separate arboricultural reports found the tree is unable to be saved and poses a serious risk to public safety. Estimated to be over 100 years old, the Cook Pine has been in steady decline since January 2015 when foli-

Young love.

age dieback was first noticed.

Efforts to improve the health of the tree through increased watering and soil additives proved unsuccessful. Council will replace the tree with a 400-litre advanced Cook Pine.

COURTYARD DINNERS KICKING OFF Coogee Courtyard has kicked off its dining evenings. Dave and the crew will be open every Thursday to Saturday night from 5pm. A $10 menu will be on offer, meaning you can now get some good old-fashioned comfort food at an affordable price. $10 cocktails, as well as reasonably priced beer and wine will also be available. Get along to Coogee Bay Road and enjoy a solid feed.

TURNING SOCIAL HOUSING INTO HOMES Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith has announced that local community groups, councils, charities and private organisations can apply for grants of up to $50,000 to create stronger social housing com-

munities. The one-off grants available to our local community form part of the NSW Government’s Social Housing Community Improvement Fund; a three-year, $20 million commitment to build stronger social housing communities. For more information, please visit www.facs.nsw.gov.au/SHCIF. FUNDING BOOST FOR LONG DAY CARE Long day care centres in Coogee have received $215,000 to deliver more pre school programs and strengthen care and education for kids, Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith said.

Notley-Smith recently visited Platinum Pre School Randwick, which received $21,450 to deliver a pre school program for children in the year before school. The new Long Day Care National Partnership Grants Program is part of an agreement between the NSW and Commonwealth Governments to increase participation in pre school programs for four and five-year-old children in the year before school.

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January 2016 | The Beast 33

The HMAS Adelaide, scuttled off Avoca Beach in 2011, is already home to a thriving community of marine life.

Coogee Idea No Sinking Ship Words Marcus Braid Picture www.hmasadelaide.com

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SW Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith is rallying support for the innovative idea to sink an ex-Navy ship off the coast of Coogee.

The artificial dive reef would be created four kilometres out to sea under the plan developed by the Gordon’s Bay Scuba Diving Club. The club’s targeted ship is the Royal Australian Navy’s HMAS Sydney IV, which was decommissioned in November.

“I’ve got to get the Federal Government to agree to hand over the ship,” Mr Notley-Smith said. “To have the HMAS Sydney off the coast of Sydney is an appropriate use of that now decommissioned vessel.”

Mr Notley-Smith said the plan was put to him a couple of years ago, and the feedback has been positive.

“I’ve written to the Defence Minister Marise Payne asking for that ship, and she’s very keen to explore the idea,” he said. “I have the backing of the NSW Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres, and Mike Baird has indicated he’s willing to back it.”

“I said go out there and write

34 The Beast | January 2016

some articles about it, and get some sort of feedback from the public. It’s all been generally good, and I’ve said I’ll support them as much as I can to make it a reality.”

There is a precedent when it comes to scuttling ex-Navy ships, with the ex-HMAS Adelaide sunk off the coast of Avoca Beach on the Central Coast.

“There was some controversy around the sinking of the HMAS Adelaide, but it’s since been demonstrated that there is no environmental downside as long as the ship is prepared appropriately,” Mr Notley-Smith said.

“It makes it incredibly more attractive to a lot of local people. We just don’t have this sort of facility locally, but it’s also a great tourist attraction for those people who are scuba enthusiasts who come to Sydney, especially for those who don’t have time to go up north to dive the Adelaide. It will be conveniently located and have Coogee’s name attached to it.”

Randwick Councillor Tony Bowen has thrown his support behind the initiative, provided

all the environmental checks and balances are addressed.

“Obviously there would be hazardous substances associated with a navy ship, like paint and any other equipment,” Cr Bowen said.

“Provided it’s done right, I can’t see any issue with it. As long as the environmental side is addressed, I think it will be a good thing. It’s below the surface.”

The potential to create a new marine habitat is driving the idea and exciting the diving community.

“I know that there’s a really good culture of diving around Coogee,” Cr Bowen said. “We’ve had the dive school down there for many years, and we have some of the best snorkelling in the world. I don’t have a problem with it at all, provided there is no risk to the environment.

“The reality is there’s probably 50 wrecks off the coast of Sydney, maybe more, where there’s all sorts of habitat created that people probably don’t even know about. It’s funny how the natural world has a good knack for making use of these things.”

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Lucy and I wish all the readers of The Beast a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

Christmas is a time for thanksgiving and reflection.

Enjoy time spent with your loved ones and stay safe over the break. - Malcolm Turnbull, Prime Minister For assistance with Federal matters please contact my office.

Mail: PO Box 545 Edgecliff NSW 2027 | Phone: ( 02 ) 9327 39 88 Contact: www.pm.gov.au/contact-your-pm | Facebook: malcolmturnbull

www.malcolmturnbull.com.au Authorised by Malcolm Turnbull MP, Ground Floor, 287-289 New South Head Road, Edgecliff NSW 2027.

T20 Victory For Randy Petes Words Madeleine Gray

C

ongratulations are in order for the Randwick Petersham Cricket Club, which defeated Sydney University in the grand final of the Kingsgrove Sports T20 Cup at Coogee Oval at the end of November. This is the third time that the Randy Petes have won the title in the past five years, making them the only club to have achieved this many wins since the competition’s inception in 2008.

The game itself was witness to some particularly brilliant acts of cricket. The Randy Petes began with a solid innings, finishing at 7/166 from their twenty overs. Opener Nathan Price scored an amazing 45 runs from just 25 balls, Anthony Sams made 28 off 27, Shaun Eaton 23 off 15, and Daniel Sams made an impressive 43 off 33, which garnered him the Player of the Final title. Sydney University did not sit idly back and watch the brilliance unfold, however. The Students managed to pull off three of the greatest catches ever seen on a suburban oval.

When it came to Sydney University’s turn to bat, it seems the task was simply too great. Despite some valiant efforts, particularly by tenacious team captain Nick Larkin (61 off 48), they finished their allotted overs on 7/140, giving Randwick Petersham victory by a margin of 26 runs.

The Randy Petes were awarded the winner’s cheque for $12,000 courtesy of Kingsgrove Sports, while Sydney University received $4000.

Here’s to an exceptional cricketing season, gents!

36 The Beast | January 2016

Every man and his dog will be there.

Men, Women, Dogs Set To SUP This Australia Day Words Madeleine Gray Picture Terry McDermott

D

epending on your previous experiences, the words ‘Australia Day’ can rouse up polar emotions. You might recall the time you got maggot at your cousin’s barbecue and ended up chundering whilst hanging off the Hills Hoist. Or you might think of mateship, the outdoors, and celebrating all that makes you proud to be Australian – things like community, multiculturalism and damn good meat pies. On Tuesday, January 26, we strongly encourage that you embrace the latter by heading down to Watsons Bay for WATSSUP Watsons Bay Stand Up Paddling’s third annual ‘Every Man and His Dog’ stand up paddling event.

The day is a sun-soaked celebration of all things Aussie, as participants ranging from kidlets to dads to professional athletes compete in a range of stand up paddling events.

Most iconic are the ‘Man and Dog’ events, where you (whether you be man or woman!) must navigate the sparkling waters of Sydney Harbour whilst keeping your favourite canine companion upright on your board.

There are a range of courses to suit a wide cross-section of physical prowess and ability,

and the stunning location means that even those who are not athletically inclined can still enjoy a picturesque day overlooking the harbour.

WATSSUP is an ASI accredited Stand Up Paddle school based in Watsons Bay, owned

by Mermaid Joanna Kyriazakos and Bondi Rescue lifeguard Terry McDermott.

Kyriazakos pretty much summed it up when she explained that what she loves about this event on Australia Day is “that it encompasses so much of what makes up a modern day Aussie”. It is about community, physical activity, and our love of dogs, all set in a classic Aussie setting.

McDermott echoed this sentiment, explaining that his love for the day is intertwined with its celebration of the relationship between man and man’s best friend.

“Add the man and dog into a mixture of social and serious SUP races and you have an event for all to enjoy on our national holiday,” he said.

Race registration can be done online at the event website, www.everymanandhisdog.com.au, until 8pm on Sunday, January 24.

Pina Colada

Nachos

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Find us at 3/260 Coogee Bay Rd

Salmon Coconut Ceviche

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Fresh Margarita

More Bits & Pieces From Around The Beaches...

Words Marcus Braid Picture Gavin Allen - @sydneysurfers

COOGEE BUSINESSES TO SAVE $2.1 MILLION Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith has welcomed new figures showing 83 medium to large Coogee businesses will save about $2.1 million in workers’ compensation premiums compared to last year thanks to initiatives introduced by the NSW Government. A two-year grace period will be extended to help businesses with higher than average claims to improve their safety records. Support will also be provided to help employers identify and fix the causes of workplace accidents. For further information about the reforms to the NSW workers compensation system, visit www.insurancereforms.nsw.gov.au.

WAVERLEY COUNCIL WINS PLANNING AWARDS Waverley Council has been honoured at the Planning Institute of Australia’s 2015 National Awards for Planning Excellence.

The council won the award in the Best Planning Ideas – Small Projects category for its innovative Urban Interventions pop ups program, and a commendation award in the Improving Planning Processes and Practices category for the Waverley Council Plan-

Beautiful Bronte Reef.

ning Agreement Policy 2014. The awards are designed to bring national attention to the important role of the planning profession and to stimulate public awareness of good planning.

BONDI SQUISHY FACES CLUB When Candice and her French bulldog, Fergus, moved to Bondi recently, they were keen to meet up with new and like-minded people and puppies. Spotting many dogs of the squishy-faced variety in the neighbourhood, they decided to create their own social club to combine puppy playtime and human banter. So, if you have a pug, boxer, bulldog, Boston or the like, Candice and Fergus look forward to meeting you at one of their next events.

Visit www.bondisquishyfacesclub.com for more details.

FOOD ADDICTION SUPPORT Are you having a hard time controlling the way you eat? Are you severely overweight, underweight, bulimic or obsessed with food or weight? Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) offers help and hope. They hold meetings every Wednesday from 7pm-8.30pm and Friday from 10am-11.30am at the Salvation Army Hall on Boyce Road,

Maroubra. FA is free and open to all women, men and teens who want to stop eating addictively. Call Maria on 0410 566 724 or visit www.foodaddicts.org.

WAVERLEY’S GARDEN AWARD WINNERS There was one clear message to gardeners at the annual Waverley Garden Awards at historic Bronte House last month. Guest speaker and former Bronte House head gardener, Myles Baldwin, told gathered enthusiasts that it was difficult being a gardener in Waverley: “Our proximity to the sea and the area’s sandy soil make it a challenging location to grow plants,” he said. “If there’s one bit of advice I would give, it’s this: compost, compost, compost.”

Gardeners mingled on the beautiful veranda of Bronte House, exchanging phone numbers and advice with each other before moving into the specially constructed marquee for the presentation of the awards, including honourable mentions. This year there were 36 nominations for Waverley’s Garden Awards, 22 were shortlisted, and the judging panel visited 17 properties over 2 days. For a full list of winners, visit www.waverley.nsw.gov.au.

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8362 4000 January 2016 | The Beast 39

COOGEE SAYS ‘NO’ NO DAN MURPHY'S IN BROOK STREET There are more than enough bottle shops in Coogee already, sorry Dan.

Community Win As Council Cans Dan Murphy’s Plan Words Marcus Braid Picture Al Kahol

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oogee residents have applauded Randwick Council’s decision to refuse recommendation of the development application for a Dan Murphy’s bottle shop on Brook Street.

The DA seeks to turn the former Randwick Rugby Club into a liquor store and café, and the matter will now head to the Land and Environment Court.

Councillor Murray Matson was unequivocal that another bottle shop wasn’t wanted in Coogee.

“We don’t need another one,” he said. “The Dan Murphy’s would be surrounded by residential property. The only way it is going to get through is if they can find some way of declaring it to be a shop. That’s the only way they can get approval for it.”

Mr Matson said he was baffled by the suggestion the liquor store could be considered a shop for zoning purposes.

“It beats me,” he said. “But the zoning permits shops in that particular area; therefore they are trying to classify their pro-

40 The Beast | January 2016

posal as a shop that sells liquor, or a bottle shop in effect.

“It would have an impact on the surrounding residential area, and the residents are up in arms about it. They are familiar with the effect Randwick Rugby Club has had for many years.

It’s not looked on favourably and it’s not a desired outcome on that site for the community.”

Mr Matson said it was important to prioritise community interests.

“I think the community is becoming much more politically divided on it,” he said. “The community should come first, and the hospitality industry should be secondary to that.”

Amanda Moore, a local resident and key community advocate against the proposal, said the community was “totally thrilled”.

“We want to make a big banner saying ‘Thank you Randwick Council’ for listening,” she said. “It’s really tricky with this whole thing because I don’t know how Council will go in the Land and Environment Court.

“It’s a pretty tough battlefield historically for most councils, so you feel hopeful that at least our council is listening to the ratepayers as locals. I don’t know what the answer is from here on in. Hopefully big business might listen to what the community wants as well.”

Ms Moore said it was a highly successful and aggressive campaign.

“I’ve never actively engaged as aggressively campaigning against anything before,” she said. “I did rally a lot of parents from my kids’ schools in the local area.

“There’s just a lot of alcohol available here. There are no restrictions around where you can drink in most of the parks. To a certain degree, if you’re a civilised member of society, that’s kind of nice, but from October until April it’s putrid.”

A spokesperson for Dan Murphy’s said the company “is disappointed by Randwick Council's decision and will be appealing it in the Land and Environment Court”.

The festive season is well and truly here and I am pleased to see so many people out enjoying our parks and coastline.

I would like to take this opportunity to touch on some of the ways to make summer as enjoyable and safe as possible.

Smoking is now banned on all Randwick City beaches and ocean pools. The ban minimises litter and respects the health of everyone sharing outdoor spaces. The same applies to camping in beachside parks or car parks. Police and Council Rangers make regular patrols during summer to move any illegal campervans along.

We’ve had some unusually hot days recently and while they make a great excuse for a swim, such high temperatures can pose health risks. Try to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day and keep hydrated. Randwick Libraries and facilities like DRLC are also perfect places to shelter from the heat.

With only a few more weeks until Christmas, I wish you all the best with your preparations.

Councillor Noel D’Souza Mayor of Randwick @randwickmayor

20 December Kingsford Noodle Markets 12:00pm to 9:00pm, Meeks Street, Kingsford

31 December

26 January

Coogee Carols

Australia Day

6:30pm to 8:30pm Goldstein Reserve, Coogee Beach

10:00am to 2:00pm Coogee Beach 12:00pm to 2:00pm Little Bay

1300 722 542 council@randwick.nsw.gov.au www.randwick.nsw.gov.au PHOTO: CHRISTMAS CAROLS, COOGEE BEACH

The S-word Causes A Stir Words Andre Slade

I

Weird.

Early Birds To Pay Congestion Tax At Clovelly Beach Words Kieran Blake Picture Grant Brooks

A

congestion tax will be imposed upon swimmers at the increasingly popular Clovelly Beach in an effort to ease traffic flow during early morning peak hours.

Swimmers will be forced to pay an undisclosed fee in order to access the water from 5–7am under a new proposal from Randwick City Council.

“Clovelly Beach resembles George Street at certain times of the morning and we would like to ease pressure on all users, the marine environment – and the groper,” read a statement from Randwick City Council.

Any swimmer entering the water from either the sand or the concrete will be required to pass through electronic motion gates, which will be installed at various parts of the beach. The gates will scan an electronic bracelet, like an e–tag, which will alleviate the need to extract money from speedos.

Various details have emerged, including a possible reduction in fees for those who live within a 100-metre radius of the beach, and a higher fee for anyone wearing running shoes while

42 The Beast | January 2016

swimming.

Critics of the plan questioned the effect on pedestrians and the lack of information about how the money will be spent.

The council explained that revenue will be used for much needed banners along the beach at certain times of the year, and that pedestrians will not be inconvenienced.

“Pedestrians can use the existing paths, which do not pass through the motion gates, or the new bridge which will be constructed from north to south across the breakwater,” a Council member said.

Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore caught news of the plan and complimented Randwick City Council on its initiative.

“We praise the council for its forward thinking. A congestion tax for the Sydney CBD has been talked about for many years,” she said. “To assist with construction of the bridge, we can offer parts of the old monorail.”

A ‘friendly’ local, who lives within 100 metres of the beach, welcomed any move that reduced the number of people at ‘his’ backyard pool.

got the feeling during winter that ocean swimming might be in for a shock this summer.

It started with a flurry of incidents on the north coast, followed by a close call for one of our favourite surfers, and then the media circus took over.

Twelve ocean swims into the season and my gut feel was right – there’s been a huge bite out of entries. On average, numbers have been down to the tune of 20% across the board.

A quick comparison of weather and surf conditions with last year shows we’re pretty evenly matched, barring a few wetter days during November this time around.

So have you thought about them? It turns out a lot of you have. When I ran a poll on Twitter, 22% of respondents said that they’d been put off getting into ocean swimming this season for this very reason. Regular straw polls down at the beach reveal this could be on the low side.

Contrary to popular belief, we don’t have a problem at our beaches; we’re no worse off than we’ve ever have been and we’re not on the menu.

There’s an ocean out there to be enjoyed, there’s freedom to be had and there are ocean swim events run as fundraisers for our surf clubs that need your support.

If you want to learn about what you really should be worrying about in the ocean this summer, sign up for an OceanFit training clinic at www.oceanfit.com.au.

Mayor‘s Message Happy New Year. I wish everyone a very safe and successful 2016. It is going to be a very busy year for Council with many exciting projects underway.

Australia Day Road Closures As you know, Waverley’s beaches are a favourite destination for thousands of visitors every Australia Day. In fact, 26 January is the single busiest day of the year for people visiting Bronte Park.

To assist our Bronte residents parking in their own streets during the celebrations, we are putting the same road closures into place this year in Bronte as we had in 2015.

They are: • Bronte Road will become one-way westbound, from Nelson Avenue to Gardyne Street between 8.30am and 8pm; • A detour from Bronte Road to access Bronte Beach via Evans Street and Macpherson Street will be in place for the hours that the changes are in operation; • Gardyne Street, St Thomas Street and Yanko Avenue will be open to resident vehicle access only.

Police officers will be on-site to direct traffic with support from Waverley Council.

Enjoy the celebrations!

Tamarama Stormwater Recycling System Late last year, I had the pleasure of officially opening the Tamarama Stormwater Recycling System in Tamarama Park. It’s a wonderful project that will deliver ongoing benefits to the entire community.

The system captures runoff water from our homes, streets and businesses for treatment and recycling.

The installation of the Tamarama Stormwater recycling system now means that all beaches in Waverley have stormwater recycling systems – and that’s something of which I am very proud!

Sally Betts, Mayor of Waverley CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE 55 Spring Street, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 PO Box 9, Bondi Junction NSW 1355 PHONE 9083 8000 WEB waverley.nsw.gov.au

Events New Year’s Eve Thursday 31 December, 6pm–12.30am Dudley Page Reserve Celebrate the start of 2016 in a relaxed, family atmosphere with spectacular views of the fireworks at Dudley Page Reserve. There’ll be food and drinks for sale as well as entertainment and plenty of activities for children. Tickets are $35 for adults and $15 for concession available at moshtix.com.au.

Beach clean-up Sunday 7 February, 4–6pm Bronte Beach Here’s your chance to grab some mates and the kids and join in a community beach clean-up. Together with Responsible Runners, this is a fun event where you’ll make a difference to your local beach.

Your efforts will be rewarded with refreshments after the hard work is done! Head to responsiblerunners.org/nsw for more information and go to bronte-clean-up. eventbrite.com.au to book your spot.

For more event info visit our website waverley.nsw.gov.au.

Connect with us:

Even More Bits & Pieces From Around The Beaches...

Words Marcus Braid Picture Amaury Tréguer - FB: Morning Bondi

BE SUN SMART THIS SUMMER Cancer Council NSW is encouraging parents across the Eastern Suburbs to ensure their teenagers use sun protection this summer as Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology predicts warmer than average temperatures for the season ahead. Teenagers still aren’t using enough sun protection while outdoors over summer. Slop on at least SPF 50+ broad-spectrum, waterresistant sun cream 20 minutes before you head out and make sure to take a bottle or tube with you so you can re-apply every two hours. For tips on how to be sun smart, visit www.cancercouncil.com.au/cancer-prevention/sun-protection/.

MAKING NSW BEACHES INCLUSIVE Minister for Disability Services John Ajaka has announced grant recipients for the Community Inclusion Grants Program, which aims to create inclusive beach communities for people with a disability. Visiting the North Bondi Surf Club, Mr Ajaka congratulated more than 20 organisations that were successful in receiving grants from the NSW

First light.

Government. The initiatives implemented before May 2016 focus on three locations – Pambula Beach on the South Coast, Newcastle Beach and Nobby’s Beach in the Hunter, and the iconic Bondi Beach.

MAYOR CONCERNED OVER ANZAC PARADE Randwick Mayor Noel D’Souza has expressed serious concerns over several potential planning proposals for high-rise buildings along Anzac Parade. The proposals could see the development of 21-storey buildings, which far exceed Council’s height controls adopted in the Randwick Local Environment Plan (LEP). Mayor Noel D’Souza said Council is writing to the Planning Minister requesting that current planning proposals for substantial height increases be put on hold and that any new applications should not be accepted.

NSW WOMEN OF THE YEAR Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith and Member for Vaucluse Gabrielle Upton have said the search has begun for outstanding Eastern Suburbs women to be recognised, with the nominations for the fifth

annual NSW Women of the Year Awards now open. Mr NotleySmith and Ms Upton are both calling on people of the Eastern Suburbs to nominate impressive women from all walks of life who deserve recognition for their outstanding achievements. Entries close on January 13. Nominations can be made at www.women.nsw.gov.au.

ASYLUM SEEKER AWARENESS CAMPAIGN ‘I Came By Boat’, a poster campaign that sheds a positive light on those people who came to Australia by boat and the social, economic and cultural diversity they bring to the country, has been announced by internationally acclaimed Australian makeup artist and refugee Blanka Dudas. Blanka is leading a crowd funding campaign to make ‘I Came By Boat’ a reality. Blanka and her team have approached Australians who came by boat from different occupations and backgrounds, photographed them and recorded their stories, developing a beautiful poster campaign. Visit the ‘I Came

By Boat’ crowdfunding page at www.chuffed.org/project/i-cameby-boat to pledge your support.

January 2016 | The Beast 45

Still painting the town purple.

A Decade Of Getting It Done For Premature Babies Words Dan Hutton Picture Sophie Smith

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t’s that time of year when local resident Sophie Smith and her amazing Running for Premature Babies team announce that they again need your help. More runners and fundraising geniuses are being sought to take part in the SMH Half Marathon on Sunday, May 15, helping to save the lives of tiny premature babies cared for at The Royal Hospital for Women in Randwick.

Ms Smith founded Running for Premature Babies (RFPB) in 2007 after she and her husband Ash lost their first-born triplets – Henry, Jasper and Evan – to complications after their extremely premature births.

They’ve been painting the town purple ever since.

46 The Beast | January 2016

“2016 is a special year for us as it’s Henry, Jasper & Evan’s tenth birthday, and it also marks the tenth time we’ve put a team together in the race. We’d love to celebrate by gathering our biggest team ever,” Ms Smith said.

Since its inception, the Running for Premature Babies team has raised over $1.5 million for the Royal’s Newborn Intensive Care Unit, where Sophie's children received their care.

In 2016 Ms Smith is hoping to attract hundreds more people to don the team’s iconic purple running singlets, doubling her annual team to 500 runners, raising $250,000 for prematurity research and brightening up Sydney’s streets.

“When our babies died we never dreamed that ten years later over 2000 people would have run in their memory, or that so much money would have been raised in their names to help others just like them,” Ms Smith said.

“We are truly humbled by the hard work and generosity of so many runners in creating this legacy for our boys.

“It is wonderful to now have some runners join us whose own prematurely born children spent their first days, weeks and months using the new equipment provided by RFPB.” Ms Smith said that she is looking for people of all fitness levels to join the team. With 18 weeks of free training sessions and social events, and even the option of running the course with a friend as a 7km/14km relay, there’s something for everyone.

“There’ll be free training sessions twice a week to get everyone race ready, and we’ll support you all the way to the finish line,” she said. “We also organise social events from our launch party in early February to our race day after party, and each year new friendships are forged. We’ve even had a RFPB wedding!”

Aside from the free training sessions, team members will also receive a Running Bare RFPB running kit, and all they need to do in return is raise the minimum $100 in sponsorships.

“Each runner sets their own personal fundraising target,” Ms Smith said. “Some run in memory of their own babies, and others run to celebrate their children who survived their prematurity. Others join as a New Year’s resolution to get fit and support a great cause.”

So grab a friend, work colleague or family member and jump on to www.runningforprematurebabies.com to sign up.

There really is no simpler way to save lives.

No more foamie flag sessions.

Foamies Forbidden Between The Flags Words Sarah Healey Picture Grant Brooks

W

ith summer on our doorstep, the Eastern Beaches area is teeming with bathers and board riders, all clamouring to cool off or catch a few waves.

On busy weekends real estate on the sand is scarce, and in the drink things aren’t much better.

Trying to find your own piece of paradise can end up becoming insanely frustrating. Sometimes you need a Plan B. Local resident Scott McGrath is a regular surfer at Bondi Beach, and he has his Plan B all ready to go when the crowds are out of control: he takes is foam board down instead of a sturdier fiberglass board and heads out between the red and yellow flags to avoid the crowds.

Scott believes that it’s common practice for many surfers.

“That’s why experienced surfers still ride the foam boards, because they can get away from the crowds by being in between the flags,” he said. “If the conditions are good, there are lots of people with foamies out there.”

However, Scott was recently told by lifeguards to move out of the flags while on his foam

48 The Beast | January 2016

board. He recalls seeing other less experienced surfers on foam boards between the flags, and doesn’t understand why he was called out.

“Fundamentally, I want to know what the rules are,” he said.

“If I can’t surf a foamie between the flags I’ll just take a normal board down there and surf in the designated area, and I want the same rules to be applied to everyone.”

Confusion over whether you’re able to use a foam board between the flags is understandable. It seems that many people who initially buy these boards are under the impression they are primarily used for beginner surfers who want to ride in the safest areas of the beach.

Some websites promote foam boards as “perfect for surfing in between the flags” and “a trusty must-have for those learning how to surf and those looking for a little bit of fun in between the flags”.

However, Waverley Council’s head lifeguard Bruce Hopkins said that it’s unsafe for any surf craft to be used between the flags.

“They [foam boards] used to be allowed, but due to the amount of people that are down there swimming, we had to review it,” he said.

“Sometimes the flags aren’t positioned that wide, so we decided that no surf craft are to be within the red and yellow flags.

“The foam boards can be used anywhere along the beach to the north end, apart from between the swimming flags, but fibreglass boards have got to be south of the middle set of flags,” he said.

Randwick Council applies the same set of rules to its beaches.

“These are surf guidelines,” a Randwick Council spokesperson said.

“They are not written in law or enforceable by the police.

They are guidelines to help lifeguards and lifesavers manage beaches.

“Our beaches simply can’t cater for any surf craft between the flags. It’s impractical and risky. If you’ve got 100 or more people in the water swimming alongside surfers, it’s a dangerous mix.”

Should the riding of foam surfboards be permitted between the red and yellow flags?

Interview and Pictures Marcus Braid

Hudson, Bondi

Yeah, I can’t see why not. If you have a kid that’s a beginner, you don’t want to send them outside of the flags. They’ll get caught and sucked away.

It’s a grey area where I understand both parties.

Alex, Bronte

No, they’re foam but it’s dangerous for swimmers.

I’ve only just arrived and I’m learning the rules.

Boards can go anywhere else on the beach.

Felicity, Bondi

Rafael, Maroubra

Foam boards should stay at North Bondi. I have both and I like to take the foamie to the easy end and the hard board to the southern end. The flags should be for swimmers.

No, the flags should be for swimmers. The boards can hit the swimmers. I would be angry if I got hit, because it could hit you in the face.

Georgia, Bondi

No, because it’s quite dangerous. I’ve lived in Sydney my whole life and I’m not the strongest swimmer in the waves. I know when I see foam boards in the waves, I freak out that I’m going to get hit.

Scott, Coogee

No, it’s too dangerous, 100 percent. You can get hit by the fins as well, so it doesn’t make sense to allow foam boards between the flags.

January 2016 | The Beast 49

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BONDI SQUISHY CLUB When Candice and her Frenchie, Fergus, moved to Bondi recently, they decided to create their own social club to combine puppy playtime and human banter. They look forward to meeting you at one of their next events. Visit www.bondisquishyfacesclub.com.

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WEAR PINK TO THE CRICKET As is now tradition on this day of the Sydney test at the SCG, fans are encouraged to wear pink clothes to the cricket for Jane McGrath Day to support the McGrath Foundation and the fight against breast cancer. Please visit www.mcgrathfoundation.com.au.

PRESERVE RANDWICK’S BUSH Become a bushcare volunteer and work on the bush regeneration program today from 9am12pm at Randwick Environment Park (REP). Meet on the corner of Dooligah Avenue and Burragulung Street, Randwick. Visit www.randwick.nsw.gov.au.

SYDNEY FESTIVAL BEGINS Get along to a mix of free and ticketed events of all ages, at all hours, from today until January 26. Sydney Festival enlivens and transforms Sydney with a bold cultural celebration based on the highest quality art and big ideas.

Visit www.sydneyfestival.org.au.

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS PROGRAM Waverley Council's holiday program in January is jam-packed full of events for the kids. Keep all ages happy at Waverley Library, Waverley-Woollahra Arts School and other local venues.

For the full holiday program, visit www.waverley.nsw.gov.au.

FRED HOLLOWS BUSHCARE Fred Hollows Reserve is one of the last remaining rainforest gullies in the Sydney metro region that hasn't been ruined, and contains the last open creek line in the Eastern Suburbs. Volunteers work in this unique rainforest setting.

Help out today from 9am-1pm.

HATEFUL EIGHT AT THE RITZ The Ritz Cinema is thrilled to be showing Quentin Tarantino's eighth film, The Hateful Eight, in glorious 70mm from January 14.

Ticket holders will also receive a complimentary limited edition souvenir program. Book now at www.ritzcinema.com.au.

STORIES BY THE BEACH Listen to Mala the Mermaid tell stories of the beach and the sea at Coogee Beach today.

Join the summertime trail and experience an entertaining day out. Look out for Mala next to the lifeguard’s office from 10am10.30am. Please call 9314 4888.

HITTING THE RIGHT NOTE Bondi Sings community choir is looking for new members. Be part of a friendly group of enthusiastic and dedicated singers who meet weekly. The group rehearses every Tuesday at the Bondi Pavilion from 7.30-9.30pm. Contact Huan at bondisings@gmail.com.

SOLACE FOR THE AGEING The Cottage at Rushcutters Bay offers a low care, dementia day centre service. For $20 a day, you, your loved one or friend can be picked up in a bus, engaged, fed and dropped home again. Contact Amy Drewe on 8971 9012 or email thecottagecoord@senc.org.au.

AUSTRALIA DAY AT COOGEE Randwick Council will host free, fun family activities this Australia Day at Coogee Beach with music, giveaways and sporting activities, and at Little Bay with entertainment at Prince Henry Centre, from 9am-3.30pm. Grab your picnic basket and enjoy.

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LOCAL SPORTING GRANTS Local sporting clubs are urged to apply for the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program to get more locals involved in sport and recreation activities. Applications close on February 11, 2016. For more info, visit www. sportandrecreation.nsw.gov.au.

MOVE WELL EXERCISE CLASS Over 65s are invited to try an enjoyable exercise class called Move Well from 8.30am-10.30am, which incorporates pilates, yoga and traditional exercise methods.

Taking place at the Gaden Centre in Woollahra, it costs $5. Call 9302 3600 to reserve your place.

COURTYARD DINNERS Coogee’s Courtyard Cafe has kicked off its new dinner offering.

They will be open every Thursday to Saturday night from 5pm. A $10 menu will be on offer, bringing back comfort food at an affordable price. $10 cocktails, and beer and wine will also be available.

For heaps more local events, just visit...

Concretor Jay Rodney Oceanside Ph: 0411 989 565 Painter Brett Dooley Nielson Dooley Ph: 0404 888 089

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KEEP THE PARTY GOING Field Day is a popular way to keep the party pumping on New Year’s Day. The Domain’s multistage outdoor party will feature Disclosure, Flight Facilities and Golden Features, among other headline acts. For more info visit www.fielddaynyd.com.au.

NSW WOMEN OF THE YEAR The search has begun for outstanding Eastern Suburbs women to be recognised, with the nominations for the fifth annual NSW Women of the Year Awards now open. Entries close on January 13. Please visit www.women.nsw.gov.au.

NEW YEAR’S TEST MATCH The Australian team returns to the SCG today for the traditional New Year’s test match against the West Indies. The Aussies are expected to win easily, but the opening day of the Sydney test is always a popular event. Visit www.ticketek.com.au.

FLICKERFEST OPENING PARTY Celebrating its 25-year anniversary this year, Flickerfest, will open tonight at the Bondi Pavilion. This year’s Flickerfest, running from January 8-17, is Marilyn Monroe-themed to celebrate the big birthday. Please visit www.flickerfest.com.au.

LAST CAB AT MOONLIGHT Moonlight Cinema displays contemporary, cult and classic movies on the lawns of Belvedere Amphitheatre in Centennial Park. Last Cab To Darwin is showing tonight at 8.30pm.

Tickets Are $19. Please visit www.moonlightcinema.com.au.

NORTH BONDI ROUGHWATER Tackle those New Year’s resolutions with a swim across the famous Bondi bay. Take up the challenge of the North Bondi Roughwater Ocean Swim and warm up for the North Bondi Classic on February 14. Visit www.northbondisurfclub.com.

CALISTHENICS RECRUITING Sydney Calisthenics Club of Bondi Junction is currently recruiting new team members for the 2016 season. Fun, dynamic and affordable, Saturday morning classes take place during term time. A free trial class is offered. Visit www.sydneycalisthenics.com.

LOCAL TEAMS CHARGING The Eastern Beaches cricket teams are perfectly primed to make a charge at the first grade title in the second half of the season. Randwick Petersham are in finals contention, and host Mosman in a crucial two-day match at Coogee Oval on January 16 and 23.

SUMMER FUN AT CENTENNIAL Keep the kids entertained over summer and book them into Centennial Parklands’ school holiday programs. With over 40 events and activities for kids, the Parklands have an exciting calendar in January. Visit www.centennialparklands.com.au/schoolholidays.

BONDI OPEN AIR CINEMA Get down to Bondi Beach for the perfect open-air cinema experience tonight. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 will be screening under the stars. Gates open at 5pm, the movie starts at 8.30pm, and tickets are $19. Visit www.openaircinemas.com.au.

ELECTRIC GARDENS Get down to Centennial Park on the Saturday of this Australia Day weekend for Electric Gardens, a brand new summer dance festival headlined by Fatboy Slim and supported by a stellar line-up of international DJs across 3 stages.

Visit www.electricgardens.com.au.

VIBES ON A SUMMER’S DAY Vibes On A Summer’s Day returns to the Bondi Pavilion today.

Embrace the vibe with Jazzie B, Kylie Auldist, nu disco pioneers Faze Action, fellow Brits Russ Dewbury and Spikey Tee, WA's Dr Packer and more. Visit www. vibesonasummersday.com.

REIGN IN THE WAY YOU EAT If you are having a hard time controlling the way you eat, FA offers help and hope. Meetings are held every Friday from 10am and Wednesday from 7pm at the Salvation Army Hall on Boyce Road in Maroubra. For more info, visit www.foodaddicts.org.

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LIFE’S A BEACH AT THE ACP Life’s a Beach, a highly anticipated exhibition at the Australian Centre for Photography, kicks off today. One of Britain’s most beloved photographers will take you on a colour-saturated journey through a place loved by all: the seaside. Visit www.acp.org.au.

Fencing Troy Salvatico Jim’s Fencing Ph: 0405 543 530 Building Design Todd Maguire Design Solutions Ph: 0405 617 428 Rubbish Removal Dave Whiteley Dave's Rubbish Ph: 0401 296 069 Mechanic Jordan Hayman JH Automotive Ph: 0424 144 987 Plumber Matt Scott Surfside Plumbing Ph: 0450 391 734 BBQ Caterer Wardy Wardy & Sons Ph: 0414 293 396 Cleaner Sarah Callan Exec Home Office Ph: 0414 510 275 Plumber Luke Fletcher Pipe Up Plumbing Ph: 0431 638 558 Locksmith Bradley Rope SOS Locksmiths Ph: 0498 767 767 Electrician Adrian Langen Langen Electrical Ph: 0400 006 008 Arborist Jeff Hunt Prompt Trees Ph: 0412 280 338 Handyman Cristian The Handyman Ph: 0467 484 459

...www.thebeast.com.au/events-guide

Never Say Never

Radha Mitchell Interview Daniel Hutton Photography Georgie Gavaghan

Where are you originally from?

Melbourne. I grew up as an urban Melbournite, around Chapel Street, South Yarra and the Windsor area - kind of the slummy end of South Yarra. My mum had a shop on Greville Street and it was great. Melbourne was a cosy community, with an artistic, bohemian kind of culture, and where I was was close to everything. It was a fun childhood.

I read that you name has Hindu origins; were your folks spiritual people? My mum was. I think everyone has their own version of spirituality. My dad was more like a nature person. My mum's more into philosophy, I guess. My mum's got her own personal spiritual path.

Would you describe yourself as spiritual? I have a yoga practice, but it's a little rusty, and a meditation practice. I’m a regular, but it's more just something I do when I need to.

You've got four middle names; is that a pain in the arse when you go through customs and immigration?

No, because as long as you don't have any naughty stamps in your passport, they don't get too focused on the name. I've been travelling in India and they love it, because I have an Indian name. That always gets me positive attention.

How did you first get into acting?

I got into acting, if I remember correctly, in a student film when I was nine years old. I played a little girl who throws a rock through a window that kills her mum.

Did you always love acting? No, I don't always love it. Does everyone love everything always? I'm always learning from it.

Did you have any other careers that you considered pursuing at any stage? Yes. When I was in high

school, I was pretty much certain that I was going to be a fashion photographer, and I was getting top marks for the art projects that I was doing. Then, as fate would have it, I didn't get into the course that I thought I deserved to get into, and then I just turned my focus. I think I preferred to be the muse than the observer. I was always a little bit jealous of my subjects. I wanted to be in front of the camera, but not exclusively, because I like watching people and I like the intimacy of photography.

That was a long time ago, though.

I still enjoy taking pictures, but mainly with my iPhone, so there's not a lot of planning there.

I wanted to be in front of the camera, but not exclusively, because I like watching people and I like the intimacy of photography.

Are you still committed to acting?

Yes, but in a more relaxed way; not in a super, uber, career-driven way. I’m starting to get interested in producing, which is why I'm supporting this short film for Flickerfest, because I was involved in its development.

What do you love about acting? A lot of self-conscious people act.

It's like a mode of expression.

You're inhabiting something else, but you're bringing in everything that you know, so it's like painting, or anything where you get to express stuff that you've been processing your whole life.

Have you ever become so involved in a character that you’ve found

it hard to switch off and become yourself ? Yes and no. I think it's more about the way you relate to people that's the illusion. There's a dynamic that's created between you and a director and the other actors, and there's a fantasy world that you inhabit for that period of time. Maybe there could be some confusion there, but not personally, not when you just go home.

You've come from an era of female Australian actors who've had a great deal of success over in the US; what do you think it is about your crop that made you so appealing to the international audience? I think the world is much smaller now than it was then; all these people will audition on Skype these days. We didn't have that technology when I went there, so it was more like you had to go into the adventure of complete uncertainty to try your luck. I think a lot of bold characters were up for that kind of challenge.

Did you do the LA thing and sleep on couches? I did, yeah. I had just got a manager, so I went from being in India to Sundance, from Sundance to LA, and this girl who was one of the writers on a project that we had in Sundance was staying with me. We stayed with my manager at the time, who I didn't really know, so it was good having a wing woman there rather than staying on my own with some weird American guy. As it turns out, that weird American guy is still my manager today.

How long were you over in LA for before you got your first break?

I was there for six months before I got a movie role. I did a movie called ‘High Art’. It felt like such a long time.

Did you ever think about giving up and coming back home? No. I

January 2016 | The Beast 53

mean, I came back home because I ran out of money, but I didn't think about giving up on the dream.

Would you say that you've achieved the dream? Part of it, yeah. Not the whole dream, but certainly a portion of the dream.

You're in town for the upcoming Flickerfest short film festival; what do you love about Flickerfest? The location. What a great spot for a film festival. It’s lovely, and it’s turned out to be a very significant film festival, as movies that come out of it can be nominated for an Academy Award.

That’s right, it's an Academy accredited festival… And there are only 59 of them in the world, so it's pretty significant for any film to be selected and to be part of this festival, and that's important. It's also a great opportunity to honour young and older filmmakers who are doing something experimental, novel and creative, and often it's the short format that allows for things to be more poetic, or more investigative on some level.

Why should people get down to the Bondi Pavilion and support Flickerfest? It's a great night out. I was here last year and it's fun. It's a fun way to connect with people in Sydney. It's a great spot to see movies, it always seems to be a warm night and there's always an ample bar.

It's just a cool thing to do.

You star in a film called ‘Whoever Was Using This Bed’, which has been selected in Flickerfest’s Australian Competition category; can you tell us a bit about the film and your role? It’s based on a short story written by Raymond Carver, who's one of the great writers from America, and I play a woman called Iris who has just woken up to the fact that in some point in her life she's going to die, and this is sort of a nightmare moment where she wants to talk about it. Her husband is not so keen on it, but it involves this conversation and the story is a little poetic. The film is a little obtuse, so it's open to your own kind of projection and interpretation.

Who directed the film? Andrew Kotatko, who's a very interesting filmmaker, directed it. He also

54 The Beast | January 2016

made another really interesting short film based on a Raymond Carver short story about a decade ago, which starred Hugo Weaving, Abbie Cornish and Sullivan Stapleton. I got involved when he was looking for another actor for this new project of his. He invited me through a mutual friend and I ended up helping to cast the film too. There are some interesting people collaborating on it. Geoffrey Simpson, who also shot the movie ‘Shine’, shot the film. All the key crew are very experienced and professional, so it was a cool team of people to work with.

I came back home because I ran out of money, but I didn't think about giving up on the dream.

Did you read the script and say, "I want to get on board"? I wouldn't normally be attracted to do a short film, except this is such a character piece, and it's so dependent on the two lead performances. It's sophisticated, and in a sense, it's very adult. Not in an x-rated sense, but thematically it's mature, and that was of interest to me.

the level of inspiration shifts.

That's about it.

Do you look back fondly on your Neighbours days? I played one character for maybe a month, and then another character for six months. I don't really see it as the seminal chapter, but it's fun to talk about. Am I reminiscing about it? Not really, but I do think it's an amazing institution. It's been going on for how many years? It perpetuates.

Do you have a favourite actor or actress that you've appeared alongside? I actually like working with Jean-Marc Barr, who's the other lead in this short film that’s appearing at Flickerfest. We did a movie about Jack Kerouac set in Big Sur, called ‘Big Sur’, which is how we met, and he's kind of kooky.

He's a bit nutty, very intelligent, and a very passionate actor. He’s very committed to being an actor.

Do you get star-struck at all? Yes, sometimes. I met Jack Nicholson at a party a couple of months ago and I didn't have anything to say.

I'm sure Jack Nicholson could talk to anybody. He's so charming, but I just had nothing to say.

Is there any Australian talent coming through – acting or directing that you're particularly impressed by? Yeah, I really love Ivan Sen. I think he's working in a really interesting space. He has a sort of visionary, poetic kind of mood.

I think he's probably one of the most exciting Australian directors.

Do you have a favourite director to work with? I've worked with so many amazing female directors, so I think it's a good opportunity to talk about them, including Lisa Cholodenko, who directed one of the first American movies I made, called ‘High Art’. Claire McCarthy, who made a movie in India called ‘The Waiting City’, is an incredible Australian director.

I worked with Sue Brooks, too, most recently. Who else? I worked with the woman who developed the whole Twilight series, Melissa Rosenberg, and we did a TV series together. She is quite phenomenal.

You’ve appeared alongside Australian household names like Alan Fletcher and Ryan Moloney in Neighbours, as well as alongside Colin Farrell, Denzel Washington, Chloe Sevigny, Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet in various films over in the US; how different is acting in a soapie like Neighbours to appearing in a big Hollywood production? It's still the same. You're still acting. I think fundamentally,

As a woman in your 40s in the movie industry, do you feel pressure to look a certain way? There are changes in your career, but there are also changes in your perspective in what you want out of life, and I think for some people it's in alignment.

I don't think you want to be an ingénue in your 70s. You'd be over it, I would presume, but the mood that you're in as a novice is different to the mood that you're in after you've

What is it that's so endearing about short films? People tend to have a short attention span. And generally, short films have got a punchline, which people like too.

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formed your craft on some level. I think it's more about the audience.

I think the audience needs to see people who reflect their own perspective more than anything else.

Do you think it's fair that the industry applies that pressure? I think that there are a lot of men now who are primping and pruning and putting in fake pecs. It's getting depressing, but that's the culture.

I think that's not even limited to the way actors are viewed; it's how people are viewing themselves. I think Facebook, and all this sort of representation of self, creates this desire to present this perfect image, which we all know is crap, and people are even getting a bit cynical about it at this point.

I think Facebook, and all this sort of representation of self, creates this desire to present this perfect image, which we all know is crap.

Do you think you'll ever come back and live in Australia and work over here? Never say never. I've enjoyed coming back here recently and doing things. I don't think you have to limit yourself to one place anymore. You can sort of get around and have a presence in a few places.

Would you ever consider transitioning into producing or directing? I’m producing this short film that’s been selected for Flickerfest. I've actually produced a few things; about six films. Directing?

Potentially later, yeah.

Do you still have an interest in appearing on television? I don't know. I kind of like the in and out aspect of film; you're not stuck in a thing. But I do think there's this lovely kind of family, like a theatre group vibe that happens from a TV show, and it's good if it's successful and if you're not doing 20 episodes a year. The less you do the better, because it maintains the integrity of the process; otherwise it becomes a bit of a factory. There are a lot of factors before you want to marry yourself into a TV show, including the location and where it's shooting, and you're married to everybody's agenda, and often you have a seven-year contract.

You don't know how long your show's actually going to go for. It's an uncomfortable commitment, because you commit to the whole thing. You're committing to these unknown things. If you're working with David Fincher, I probably think you feel confident with that, but it certainly depends.

What about ‘The Shack’? Yes, we shot that in Vancouver with Sam Worthington. It's an interesting story, based on a book that sold 20 million copies and written by a guy in his garage. It's a phenomenon in itself, the book, and the movie is an offshoot of that.

Do you support any charities? I get behind Global Green, which is an organisation in the US, but it's kind of international. They deal with greening up architecture, protecting water, and restructuring the way that we've put the world together. Often in LA they give an award at the end of every year for people who have been innovative in that realm, and actors present the awards. Often I'm involved with that. Children Uniting Nations is an organisation that supports foster kids, which is also in the US, and I like to get behind that. If I was spending more time here in Australia, I think a really worthy organisation is Landcare, which my grandmother was one of the founders of back in the day. It’s all about helping farmers protect the land.

Was it good to work with Sam? Yeah. We actually worked together years ago on a Greg McLean movie about a crocodile that eats everybody.

Do you have any advice for young people looking to make it on the silver screen? Be grounded in your vision and flexible in your execution.

Do you have any big projects currently in the pipeline? Yes, I do.

‘London Has Fallen’ with Gerard Butler, the sequel to ‘Olympus Has Fallen’, is about to come out.

Morgan Freeman, Melissa Leo and Angela Basset are in that too.

56 The Beast | January 2016

If you could have been given one piece of advice when you were a young actress starting out, what would you have wanted to hear?

I have a cousin who's an actress, but I probably gave her pretty boring advice. I was like: "Make sure you go to university and study something else; not because you're not going to be an actor, but because you want to have a rounded perspective and you don't want to feel dependent on one thing. Make sure you have a life and an education that's not myopic.” I didn't have a backup plan, but I had an education.

Do you have any skills besides acting that people might not know about? I can play the ukulele. I was actually good at athletics too, but really bad at sport. I was good at the sprint, but was so uncoordinated with the ball. I couldn't play basketball or netball. You wouldn't want me on your team.

Who were your role models growing up in the industry? Nastassja Kinski. I remember her from ‘Tess of the D'Urbervilles’ and ‘Cat People’. I just thought she was so mysterious, sexy and interesting.

Beatrice Dalle would be another one as well, from ‘Betty Blue’.

Did you have anyone take you under the wing when you first headed over to Hollywood? I had a manager. That was a big deal, to have someone to kind of guide me through the process. I had a woman here, before I went to LA, who was an actress and she used to help me prepare for characters and roles.

Her name was Susie Edmonds.

She was my first acting mentor. I directed a short film and she was in it. She's a brilliant actress and she agreed to be in my piece.

In an ideal world, what does the future hold for Radha Mitchell?

I just want to enjoy doing what I'm doing to the best of my ability.

I’ve got a bunch of films coming out and I'm kind of cruising along doing what I like.

Flickerfest runs from January 8 to 17 at the Bondi Pavilion.

To get your tickets, please visit www.flickerfest.com.au.

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Local Sport From Around The Beaches...

Words Marcus Braid Picture Gavin Allen - @sydneysurfers

LOCAL GRADE TEAMS CHARGE TOWARDS FINALS Our local cricket teams are perfectly primed to make a charge at the first grade title in the second half of the season. Eastern Suburbs are flying high near the top of the table and are looking forward to their one-day fixture against Sydney University on January 9 at Waverley Oval. They are also hosting Blacktown in a two-dayer over the January 30-31 weekend. Randwick Petersham are also in finals contention and host Mosman in a crucial two-day match at Coogee Oval on January 16 and 23. Visit www. sydneygrade.cricket.nsw.com.au.

CALISTHENICS CLUB RECRUITING The Sydney Calisthenics Club of Bondi Junction is currently recruiting new team members for the 2016 season. Fun, dynamic and affordable, Saturday morning classes take place during term time and include dance, acrobatics, apparatus technique, marching, singing and acting. Coaches are experienced, accredited and dedicated to helping students of all abilities learn new skills, understand teamwork, build selfconfidence and make new friends in a fun, safe environment. A free trial class is offered. Please visit www.sydneycalisthenics.com.

Tractor trails.

NEW FACILITIES FOR MAHON POOL Randwick City Council has approved design plans for new toilets, showers and change rooms at Mahon Pool in Maroubra as part of the Buildings for Our Community program. The $1.7 million upgrade will feature baby change room facilities, external washbasin and additional storage facilities for the Mahon Pool Winter Swimming Club. Council will consult again with the local Maroubra Beach Precinct Committee on the latest design, which will then be presented back to Council prior to commencing construction.

More information is available at www.randwick.nsw.gov.au.

SUPPORTING COOGEE SURF LIFE SAVING CLUB The NSW Government will provide a one-off grant of $35,000 to the Coogee Surf Life Saving Club to help pay for repairs to the club house following storms earlier this year, Treasurer Gladys Berejiklian has announced. Following storm damage in April, the club faced a shortfall of around $35,000. The Coogee Surf Life Saving Club was founded in 1907, has over 1000 members,over 400 active volunteer lifesavers and enjoys a large junior level (nipper) membership.

SYDNEY’S BEAUTIFUL OCEAN POOLS Sydney’s Ocean Pools 2016 is a unique locally produced calendar featuring 12 of Sydney’s beautiful ocean pools, including our very own aquatic playgrounds at Bondi, Bronte, Clovelly, Coogee, Malabar and Maroubra. Along with some stunning shots, the calendar includes a short history of the pools, plus celebratory pool poetry from a variety of Australian poets. It’s not too late to enjoy a year at the pools. Contact the publisher at handmaidpress@ hotmail.com for a copy now at a reduced January cost of $9.

GOVERNMENT GRANTS FOR LOCAL SPORT Member for Coogee Bruce Notley-Smith and Member for Vaucluse Gabrielle Upton have urged local sporting clubs to apply for the NSW Government’s Local Sport Grant Program to get more locals involved in sport and recreation activities. The program aims to increase regular and ongoing participation in sport and active recreation.

Organisations can benefit in a number of ways from this funding program. Applications close on February 11, 2016. For more info and to apply, visit www. sportandrecreation.nsw.gov.au.

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January 2016 | The Beast 59

Subject Sunlamp Location Bronte Photographer Campbell Warren

Subject The wind in my hair Location Bronte Photographer Georgina Howard

Subject Blood moon rising Location Coogee Photographer James O'Connor - @jamespatrickphoto

Subject Core strength Location Bondi Photographer Amaury TrĂŠguer FB Morning Bondi

Subject Early exercise Location Bronte Photographer Richard Alma

The Beast wants your local photographs...

Subject Speed blur Location Bondi Photographer Taylor Wong - @twongphotography

Subject Lorikeets in love Location Bronte Photographer Richard Alma

Subject Unsolved Location Maroubra Photographer Nicholas Melas - @nickymelas

Subject Lapping it up Location Bronte Photographer Richard Alma

Subject Dog love Location North Bondi Photographer Rafaela Salzer - @beachlifeaustralia

...email them to photos@thebeast.com.au

right up my alley. Then I read about shark alley, watched Mick nearly end up in a shark’s belly, then decided that a trip to this part of the world would just be plain silly. Not only do I surf like an overweight 50-year-old from Point Piper, I also like my limbs, and I prefer them to be attached to my torso.

Going Anywhere Near Paris Heck, I’m not even going to go to a French restaurant. The place is jinxed. For a joint known romantically as the city of love, there is a hell of a lot of hatred hanging around the French capital right now. I don’t know enough about French politics to understand why radicalised Muslims see Paris as some sort of macabre jihadi amusement park, but they sure have done a number on the place this year.

When it comes to Le Paris, I definitely won’t go.

Not worth the risk. Well, maybe a little bit.

Rupert’s Resolute List Of Things Not Worth Doing In 2016 Words Rupert Truscott-Hughes Picture Sergio Garcia

N

ew Year’s resolutions are way too optimistic, so rather than write a list of things I plan to do in 2016, I’m going to take the glass half empty approach and jot down a bunch of stuff that I definitely won’t be doing, mainly because I don’t want to die just yet.

So here we go, Rupert’s Resolute List Of Things I Won’t Be Doing In 2016...

Sky-diving Near Sydney Down in Goulburn in midNovember an experienced sky diving instructor died and his 14 year-old client was seriously injured when a ‘freak wind’ caused them to free fall to the ground from about 20 metres

62 The Beast | January 2016

in the air. If there’s one thing I hate more than heights, it’s freak winds, so the chance of me launching myself from a moving plane at 14,000 feet in 2016 is a function of zero and anything.

There’s very little terrifying about terra firma if you’re standing firmly upon it.

Surfing In South Africa One of the editors of this fine publication spent a fortnight flailing around in the waters of Jeffreys Bay leading up to that very near fateful day in July when professional surfer Mick Fanning almost became fish food. When James spoke about the trip he was about to embark on, I must admit that it sounded

Road Tripping Through Mexico It isn’t all lazy blokes in big hats and little girls with innovative ideas for taco design; Mexico is the f**king Wild West. The dream of cheap tacos, latino sinoritas, ice cold Coronas and empty waves isn’t too farfetched, but when juxtaposed against the possibility of ending up on the wrong side of one of the many drug cartels, things can quickly become nightmarish. This has never been more evident from an Australian perspective than when two young blokes from our very own Wild West decided to drive through the night in one Mexico’s most dangerous territories last month. Days later, after nothing was heard from the young surfers, the van they had been travelling in was found burnt out on the side of the road with two bodies inside. It’s this sort of horrific event that really makes you think twice about buying a second bag at Mrs Sippy on a Saturday night.

Happy New Year!

What are your New Year's resolutions for 2016?

Interview and Pictures Marcus Braid

Finn, Bondi

Giselle, Maroubra

To be a bit fitter. It will increase my quality of life. I’ll do something active every day, and go for a run and a swim, or something like that.

Irene, Vaucluse

To travel more, and travel Asia, including Vietnam and Thailand. I’m also working towards travelling the west coast of Australia.

Ignacio, Bondi

I want to get a gun and go shoot a few people! No, I want to learn to meditate through stress.

I’m Jewish, but I've started to take on Buddhism and if people annoy me, I try and meditate my way through it.

I’m here with a working holiday visa from Chile, and I came here to work and improve my English, so I want to save money and travel. I want to go to Asia, India and Europe.

Rasmus, Bellevue Hill

Maybe I’ll quit smoking. In Sweden I have snuff, but it’s hard to get here; it’s so expensive. I’ve started to smoke, so I want to quit.

Renata, Maroubra

To get a new job; I need a new job. I’ve been looking for a while, so the start of next year would be good timing.

January 2016 | The Beast 63

An Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog (Litoria fallax) at Randwick Environment Park.

Widespread, Noisy, Amphibians‌ Australian Frogs Words Keith Hutton Picture Dan Hutton

A

ustralia is recognised worldwide for its amazing and unique wildlife, and Sydney remains a haven for a wide variety of species. Randwick and Waverley Councils are aware of the significance of this. In the suburbs east of the city, birds are obvious, mammals, reptiles, spiders and insects often attract attention, and frogs are widespread. All these creatures are included in adaptive environmental management planning, and monitored periodically by local councils. Frogs in the east are the least well known, unlike their relatives in the west, Green and Golden Bell Frogs, which really hit the headlines when they were discovered in Olympic Park at the time of the Sydney

64 The Beast | January 2016

Olympic Games. Unfortunately frogs sporting our national colours no longer appear to be present in the Eastern Suburbs.

Adult frogs are generally nocturnal; they have four limbs but no tails, and cold damp skin that may be smooth or rough. They lay eggs that usually develop independently into tadpoles, and then metamorphose into frogs.

Most Australian frogs are either tree frogs or ground frogs. Tree frogs have enlarged toe discs and are often brighter coloured than ground frogs; many are green, and spend much time off the ground in trees and other plants. Ground frogs have more slender digits, and smaller toe and finger discs. Both types occur in the Eastern Suburbs.

There are about 240 Australian frog species, with 50 or so in the Sydney region. Frogs are found almost anywhere in the country in urban, rural and bushland situations. As a group they require water to breed and to avoid desiccation, and the best places to find them are suitable breeding sites like ponds, streams and other damp and wet areas, particularly after rain. They can be heard calling, and found at the water’s edge in nearby vegetation, or under rocks and other cover.

Adults are opportunistic predators and eat a variety of live food. Big frogs eat larger prey such as other frogs, small mammals and reptiles, while small frogs eat mostly insects, spiders and worms. They grab prey with a sticky tongue then, with the help of both hands, manipulate it before gulping it down. Tadpoles initially eat plant material, and increase protein intake with animal food as they mature.

Australian frogs, like many around the world, are affected by a variety of things that lead to a decline in a number of species. The main factors are disease, habitat destruction, pollution, increased ultravioletB radiation and global climate change. In Australia, predation by exotic fish, increased salinity, and introduced Cane Toads are recognised threats. Locally endangered Green and Golden Bell Frogs have been lost from Malabar Headland within living memory. However, Eastern Dwarf Tree Frogs have established themselves there since 1995, and these pretty little frogs remain common and of least conservation concern in the Sydney region: they are easy to see in the gardens at Randwick Environment Park.

Clearly further research is required to improve our understanding of frog populations, and positive action may help to slow the loss of frogs worldwide.

Have a fun and safe Christmas and New Year

Bruce Notley-Smith MP MeMBer for CooGee

124902 Christmas Ad_The Beast_ART.indd 1

Phone: (02) 9389 6669 Fax: (02) 9387 8845 Mail: PO Box 612, Bondi Junction NSW 1355 Electorate Office: 80 Bronte Road, Bondi Junction NSW 2022 Email: coogee@parliament.nsw.gov.au Website: www.brucenotleysmith.com 5/12/12 PM 65 January 2016 | The1:57 Beast

Three jews and a kingy.

What To Do With A Shiny Brand New Year Words and Picture Dan Trotter

F

orget New Year’s resolutions; they seldom work. A much better way to get what you want from the year ahead is to write a wish list then devise an action plan to attack your desires.

In saying this, I’m reminded of two almost contradictory quotes or clichés: ‘failing to plan is like planning to fail’ and ‘life is what happens while you are busy making other plans’. With these in mind, get busy thinking about your year - and indeed your life - ahead and make sure you do what you want, because one thing that is truer than true is that none of us get a second chance to live our lives. Make the time to plan whilst also making the time to live, and strike a happy medium between the two; who knows, this time next year you could be dead.

On that cheerful note, let’s talk fish and fishing.

In Sydney, the first month of

66 The Beast | January 2016

the Gregorian calendar year is one of the finest fishing months of the 12 moons. Not only are the days long and warm, the nights are balmy and the ocean is alive with predator and prey.

If you’re on school holidays, uni break, or even just a short summer sojourn, you’ve got the time to refine your skills and really increase your chance of catching the fish of a lifetime.

In our beloved coastal waterways, life will be in full force and should offer up catches to match. A tip for those of you learning to fish: always use as light a line and leader as you dare, as little weight as possible, the freshest bait you can find, and fish for a specific species as opposed to simply going fishing.

Put all of these pieces of the angling puzzle together and they can make all the difference.

For many this month will be all about Seriola lalandi, and who can blame them. With the

run of big hoodlum yellowtail kingfish that we’ve seen so far this season, the hopes for the best season in living memory are high. Freshly caught, live big squid set on a twin hook rig using 150lb leader and 80lb braid are the order of the day for XOS kings. They’re the only way to go if you want a chance at stopping a fish over 110cm or experiencing the magic of 120cm plus. I have my fingers crossed for us both.

Also at the top of the offshore fish wish list this month will be mulloway, snapper, mahi mahi, marlin and perhaps even a marauding mackerel. Personally, I love to catch a couple of mulloway every summer and treat myself to some sweet cutlets on the barbecue, so you’ll know where I’ll be if there’s a windless balmy night leading up to the full moon.

Happy New Year and tight lines until next month!

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Untitled-3 1

4/12/2015 10:43 am 67 January 2016 | The Beast

An eastern blue groper (Achoerodus viridis) cruising the shallows.

Transgender Fish, The Pride Of A State Words and Picture Pascal Geraghty

B

lue gropers are the Chaz Bonos of the sea. They’re born female – and rather plain females at that - and then turn into flamboyant, colourful, rotund males later in life. And the similarities don’t stop there. It’s not permitted to shoot either of them with a spear gun, but they’re fantastic fun on hook and line.

For Chaz, a gender change was a conscious and no doubt difficult decision kicking off a lengthy, complicated medical process. For blue gropers, however, changing gender is just a natural, ordinary part of life.

The norm. No need for sleazy, rock star plastic surgeons to the stars, just pre-coded genes switching effortlessly on and off.

Admittedly, though, blue gropers have an unfair head start.

They are hermaphrodites. The females generally change into males at around 50 centimetres in length, but the timing of this change can be influenced by environmental and social factors.

68 The Beast | January 2016

The darlings of divers, blue gropers love to parade their big booty and botoxy lips in front of as many underwater humans as possible. Interestingly, however, the term blue groper is deceiving. They are, in fact, not gropers at all; rather, they are wrasses, and they are not always blue. Juvenile and female blue gropers are brown to greenishyellow, while it’s the adult males that possess the striking, bright blue colouring that gives these fish their name.

Eastern blue gropers (Achoerodus viridis) are ubiquitous around the rocky headlands and coastal reefs of the Eastern Suburbs, and are endemic to South Eastern Australian waters.

Their gourmet diet consists of crabs, prawns and shellfish, but their signature dish is sea urchins, making them in some ways a surfer’s guardian angel, for without them urchin numbers would undoubtedly skyrocket. Achoerodus viridis is known to reach lengths in excess

of a metre, weights well over 25 kilograms and is believed to be capable of living to at least 35 years of age.

Sadly, the population in New South Wales got seriously depleted in the swingin’ 60s due to heavy commercial and recreational fishing. Above all, their famously gentle, curious nature made them easy pickings for spearfishers.

Consequently, a ban on spearfishing was imposed in 1969 while commercial sale was prohibited in 1980. Today the species can only legally be taken by recreational line fishing, although you still hear of the odd idiot putting a spear through one.

We’re pretty proud of eastern blue gropers here in New South Wales. In 1998 they were proclaimed the state fish emblem.

And why shouldn’t we be proud?

After all, they’re living everyone’s fantasy of test-driving the sexual apparatus of both genders.

January 2016 Tide Chart Numbers Bureau of Meteorology Tidal Centre Picture Nicholas Melas - @nickymelas

MON

TUE

WED

THU

= New Moon = First Quarter = Full Moon = Last Quarter *Please add an hour during daylight savings time

4 0442 1101 1647 2256

1.40 0.72 1.24 0.58

5 0536 1206 1751 2346

1.47 0.66 1.24 0.56

11 0325 0956 1631 2230

0.40 1.89 0.22 1.45

12 0412 1040 1715 2317

0.39 1.90 0.21 1.48

18 0355 1015 1615 2225

1.56 0.56 1.35 0.47

19 0500 1132 1730 2326

1.61 0.52 1.31 0.48

25 0337 1002 1634 2235

0.43 1.82 0.29 1.42

26 0417 1040 1709 2314

0.45 1.77 0.33 1.42

Maroubra mini-air.

FRI

SAT

SUN

1 0200 0744 1347 2024

1.32 0.71 1.43 0.53

2 0250 0842 1439 2111

1.33 0.74 1.34 0.56

3 0345 0950 1541 2203

1.36 0.75 1.27 0.58

=

6 0624 1.55 1301 0.58 1846 1.26

7 0032 0709 1348 1934

0.54 1.63 0.49 1.30

8 0116 0750 1430 2019

0.50 1.71 0.40 1.34

9 0159 0831 1510 2102

0.46 1.79 0.33 1.38

10 0241 0914 1550 2145

= 0.43 1.86 0.26 1.42

13 0500 0.40 1126 1.87 1759 0.22

14 0006 0552 1213 1845

1.49 0.43 1.79 0.26

15 0058 0648 1303 1934

1.50 0.47 1.68 0.32

16 0152 0749 1400 2027

1.51 0.52 1.56 0.38

17 0252 0858 1502 2124

= 1.52 0.56 1.44 0.43

20 0601 1.68 1243 0.45 1837 1.32

21 0025 0658 1342 1936

0.47 1.75 0.38 1.35

22 0118 0750 1432 2028

0.45 1.81 0.32 1.38

23 0208 0838 1516 2114

0.43 1.84 0.28 1.41

24 0254 0922 1557 2156

= 0.42 1.84 0.28 1.42

27 0458 1116 1743 2350

28 0537 0.53 1152 1.61 1815 0.42

29 0029 0619 1228 1850

1.40 0.59 1.52 0.48

30 0109 0704 1307 1928

1.39 0.64 1.42 0.53

31 0154 0757 1353 2011

1.38 0.69 1.33 0.58

0.49 1.70 0.38 1.41

Easy come, easy go.

New Year Revolutions Words Duncan Horscroft Picture Wayne Swan

H

appy New Year Waverley Council, may all your troubles be shared within the new merger. I hope it solves all of your problems of not being able to stand alone.

Many of us are still scratching our heads with the decision to become a so-called ‘Super Council’ with Randwick, but that was a decision we ratepayers really had nothing to do with.

During 2015 there were many decisions made by Council that left locals wondering what Council’s priorities were and why massive amounts of money were suddenly being spent on seemingly inane projects.

Ripping up half of the Bondi Beach parkland prior to the beginning of the official swimming season was one of their best.

But who are we to argue.

In Bronte, recent work was undertaken at the top of St Thomas Street with new roadworks and traffic islands being installed, eliminating quite a few valued parking spots.

Local residents successfully protested against a roundabout where Chesterfield, Trafalgar

70 The Beast | January 2016

and St Thomas Streets meet, but instead traffic islands were put in place, which eliminated the many parking spots that were available.

Also included in the project was the resurfacing of the road inside Waverley Cemetery. Why? A beautifully paved road inside an area that is bordered on the north by a tumble-down rotting fence, ‘temporary’ plastic fencing and unkempt graves seems a bit bizarre.

Oh, but wait, there was a new fence put in along the St Thomas Street perimeter of the cemetery, which is about five metres above the road and totally unnecessary.

But who are we to argue, especially when they replaced parts of the Trafalgar Street fencing with a few new pickets scattered among the rotting posts. Surely that must have been a priority.

Another fence that has taken forever and a day is the one on the Bronte Beach promenade, which replaces the old wooden one that was smashed by a storm in early 2015.

And where is the clock that had previously stood the test of time above the dressing sheds at the south end of Bronte Beach? How long does it take to fix a clock?

The coral trees in Bronte Gully also received a look-in last year, with the council finally admitting the trees were feral and needed removing. They even put up signs saying what good guys they were for running an eradication program.

Quite a few have been taken out, but one giant took it upon itself to self-destruct in December, smashing down across the well-used path. Not the first and probably not the last.

Last but not least is the Bronte RSL development.

Council originally supported the ‘Village People’ in their objection to the project, but a new DA was accepted last year with the developer complying with the new height restrictions.

The irony is that the vehicle access along Chesterfield Lane has been approved, which was one of the main objections in the initial proposal.

Lest we forget.

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January 2016 | The Beast 71

last night, their organic egg, prosciutto and Asiago cheese breakfast panini is a must.

For the health nuts who stayed clear of the sauce, the avocado, spinach, kale, coconut water and heaps-of-other-healthy-stuff super green smoothie is a winner. Either way, you’ll be sipping and munching overlooking the surfers, swimmers and bronzed buttocks on Bondi Beach.

Not a bad way to start the day.

QTips – The Perfect Saturday Morning In Bondi Words QT Concierge Picture Amaury Tréguer - Morning Bondi

E

ach month, the concierge team at QT Bondi will be sharing a few tips and insights so that locals and tourists alike can experience the best the Eastern Beaches has to offer.

To kick things off we’ve curated an epic Saturday morning in Bondi - the perfect way to kick-start a summer weekend.

Time 6am – 8am Activity Swim and Sauna Location Bondi Icebergs Pool There’s no better venue to watch the sun rise than Australia’s oldest swimming club. Wake up by splashing out a couple of laps, then sweat it out in the sauna with the best view of any damn sauna in the world.

Watch the hive of ocean activity and embrace the colourful local

72 The Beast | January 2016

veterans and their unique steam room conversations, and if they start a heated debate (pun intended) about whether to put water on the coals or not, it’s best to stay out of it!

Time 8.30am Activity Caffeine Hit Location Icebergs Terrace Cafe At some stage your stomach will start to rumble. Bondi’s number one religion is coffee, so whether it’s a piccolo latte, double shot cappuccino or tall black that floats you espresso boat, grabbing a cuppa is a no-brainer. If you’re already down at the Icebergs, the Terrace Café is a smart option.

For those feeling a little dusty from the six BBQ Margaritas they downed at Neighbourhood

Time 9am - midday Activity Munching Through the Markets Location Bondi Farmers Markets Head down to Bondi Beach Public School where the fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, organically grown meat and poultry, freshly picked flowers, artisan breads, jams, cheeses, oils and herbs of the iconic Bondi Farmers Markets will be calling your name. Who doesn’t enjoy meandering through the stalls, nibbling on free samples of chilli jam on sourdough and sipping from freshly cracked coconuts? If you’re low on dough, you could probably score a whole meal here just by eating the samples. There’s always live music blowing on the sea breeze and - surprise, surprise - there’s coffee. Good coffee. Second cup?

Time Midday onwards Activity Cocktail Time Location The Bucket List How else would you want to cap off a sunny summer’s day than with a cocktail… actually, make that a jug of cocktail. We recommend grabbing an outside table at the Bucket List and ordering a ‘Chase The Endless Summer’.

You can sip the chilled vodka, eucalyptus honey water, orange, ginger beer and lime mix literally metres from the sand until the sun sinks and your night begins. Yep, that’ll do.

Next month, we’re going to send you on the ultimate Bondi cocktail crawl, so be sure to tune in again.

Alco ho be ba l will n at Co ned o and C gee lo beac velly hside areas .

lides at s r te a w E E R F am-2pm Coogee Beach 10 nic and c i p E E R F sons s e l g n i c bushdan m-2pm p 2 1 y a B le at Litt

26

January www.randwick.nsw.gov.au

1300 722 542

Cruising Down The Danube, Main And Rhine Words and Pictures The Bondi Travel Bug

W

e arrived in Budapest set to embark on a 15-day Avalon Waterways river cruise called ‘Magnificent Europe’, which would see us sail down the Danube, Main and Rhine Rivers, and cut through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany and the Netherlands.

We were excited yet apprehensive, as we didn’t know what to expect. That feeling soon disappeared when the dynamic staff greeted us and we were shown to our dazzling panorama suite with floor to ceiling glass doors that opened up to fully expose the waiting vista.

Once settled on board and with all the formalities out of the way, we were taken on a night cruise of Budapest centre, where we saw the historic buildings that line the Danube River, such as the Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion and the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, which were all vividly lit up.

The boat was moored overnight and the next day’s guided tour of Budapest saw us visit one of Europe’s liveliest cities, split by the Danube River, with the hilly and more exclusive Buda on one side and the flatter and busier Pest on the other. We could see why it is referred to as the ‘Paris of Eastern Europe’.

We departed Budapest during our welcome gala dinner and our vessel silently sliced through the Danube’s calm waters towards our next stop.

Our next destination was Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains.

Walking through the enchanting narrow cobblestone streets gave us an idea of what this magical town was like centuries ago, with its historical buildings and gothic cathedral. We half expected Shrek and Princess Fiona to jump out and greet us!

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Over the two weeks that followed, we took a trip through the history books, visiting Melk, Austria, home to the largest Benedictine Abbey in Europe, and discovering elegant Vienna and its gilded architecture, and the home where Mozart spent his last impoverished years.

Soon we were cruising again, past some of Austria’s finest wine regions and down to the gorgeous little town of Durnstein, where the legendary King of England Richard the Lionheart was incarcerated in a castle that still stands today.

As well as the guided tours at each stop, free time was available to enable everyone on the cruise to discover the local bars, cafes and shops, or in our case, the best bakeries and gelato bars!

We also opted to take in the ‘Sound of Music’ excursion, visiting the stunning towns of Mondsee and Salzburg where a lot of the movie was filmed.

Leaving Austria behind, we sailed our way in to Germany to see more churches, castles and the world’s largest unsupported ceiling and its giant fresco. This was the start of the historical and enchanting ‘Bergs’ sector: Regensburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg and Miltenberg.

In the ‘Bergs’ we discovered the oldest pub and sausage kitchen in Germany, the town where Elvis stayed while on army leave, and tales of witches and the black plague.

Continuing on, we ventured

to the Rudesheim-Rhine Gorge, where we visited the quirky Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum and later gawked at the medieval castles perched high in the hills along the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River, before heading to Cologne, one of Germany’s largest cities and home to the famous soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral and Jewish quarter.

Our final stop was Amsterdam. Here, we were taken on a canal cruise and walking tour of the Netherlands’ sophisticated and modern capital with its elegant and classic architecture, cafes, restaurants and the famous red light district.

As well as the guided tours at each stop, free time was available to enable everyone on the cruise to discover the local bars, cafes and shops, or in our case, the best bakeries and gelato bars!

Avalon Waterways has got this river cruising formula down to an art form. From the delicious and abundant food, to the friendly, accommodating staff, fantastic onboard entertainment and well organised daily excursions, it left us wanting for nothing except to do it all again.

With incredible experiences gathered and new friendships forged, any thoughts we had that river cruising is only for the older generation were quickly put to rest; there really is something to see and do for everyone.

HOW TO BOOK www.avalonwaterways.com.au WHERE TO STAY Adina Apartments Budapest www.tfehotels.com/adina HOW TO GET THERE Vicki Bloomfield at Hello World (02) 9371 8556

Think Lego primary colours: canary yellow, rich red and cobalt blue for a standout summer statement.

Be comfortable and be quick While I do love a statement heel, a summer sale is not the place for them. Sales shopping can be like a mini workout and you’re best to dress for it. Wear flats or trainers that you can slip on and off quickly. Also dress in neutral separates so you don’t have to take off your entire dress just to try on a top, wasting valuable shopping time.

If in doubt, walk away Any thoughts of ‘when would I wear this' or ‘what would I wear this with' are a sure sign of trouble. Put the item down. Step away. Don’t look back.

Lyndsay from Bondi Beach.

Simone from Tamarama.

Navigating The Summer Sales Words and Pictures Sharmin Musca, Personal Stylist

A

t this time of year there are few people who can resist a bargain. While you might get excited at the thought of spending a mere fraction of what you usually do per item, consider how many barely worn pieces are usually in your clothing haul. Remember, ‘50% off’ is not free, so if you are never going to wear it, is it really a bargain?

January sales can be a fantastic way to update your wardrobe, but before you go shopping, prepare yourself with these simple tips…

Go for classic transitional pieces that fit A lot of people go crazy; they see something on sale and buy it, but it doesn’t fit into their wardrobe and it doesn’t have a purpose, so they don’t know what to do with it. What makes a great bargain is a classic and versatile piece that works into your current wardrobe and fits your body shape, not the mannequin you saw it on. Look for pieces that can effortlessly transition into spring and autumn and can easily mix and match with what you already have.

Plan your attack Avoid the post purchase guilt associated with impulse splurges by first assessing what key items are missing from your wardrobe. By making a list and shopping from it you’ll also avoid falling into the trap of buying similar pieces, of which you already have too many.

You can never have too many accessories Accessories are the easiest items to buy to update your wardrobe. The bonus is they’re often on sale – shoes, summer bags, printed scarves, bracelets and chain necklaces. For an investment piece, go for a fabulous, brightly coloured bag.

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On the streets this month I found: Who Lyndsay Where Bondi Beach What Surf lifesaver Street Style Lyndsay wears a By Johnny skirt with a Kmart top, Christian Louboutin heels and a leather bag from Bali.

Fave Item For Summer AM Eyewear sunnies.

Who Simone Where Tamarama What Designer of Once Found accessories Street Style Simone wears a leopard print rashie by The Acqua Brand, bikini bottom

by NLP, Pared sunglasses, The Cove beach bag by Murph & Murph and Once Found jewellery.

Fave Item For Summer Stolen Bird clutch by Jodi Lee.

If updating your look or shopping for a special event sounds daunting or time-consuming, Sharmin Personal Stylist can help. Give her a call on 0405 518 155.

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January 2016 | The Beast 77

For the love of sport.

A Tale Of Local Heroes And Madmen Words Alasdair McClintock Picture Viv Richards

O

n long, hot summer weekends most of us dream of being by the ocean, cooling off in the Pacific before retiring to our patch of sand and beach umbrella to let the ocean breeze take the edge off the scorching sun. Others retreat to the relative comfort of shopping centres, wandering around aimlessly like zombies in The Walking Dead, not really intending to buy anything, just happy to be in an air-conditioned space. Some of us even have air-conditioning at home, but given the price of electricity these days, I assume turning it on is a rare luxury afforded only to the 'one-percenters'.

While most of us mere mortals flee the torrid heat, there are some who step willingly into its clutches. They spend these days, seemingly inexplicably, out in the hot sun on cricket ovals, chasing a little bit of hard leather around and whacking it with sticks. Others watch from the side: counting score, manning the bar, cutting oranges. While all of this is undeniably bonkers, there is certainly a romance about the whole thing, don't you think?

A trip to Waverley Oval on any given Saturday and most Sundays during summer will give you an insight into the hearts and minds of these mad men and women. The grandstand echoes with convivial chat. Wide brimmed Greg Chappell hats dot the landscape like flying dinner plates and aromatic wafts of freshly applied sunscreen dance

78 The Beast | January 2016

delicately upon your nostrils.

These people, both on and off the paddock, may have long given up on dreams of higher honours, but they still play and watch out of love for the pastime. Delve deeper and you will discover it is also the community, and the bonds forged, that keeps them coming back each weekend, rather than just the game itself. And yes, the cheap beers probably help too.

Sports clubs are much like little villages in that way. Everybody does their bit to get the thing off the ground and functioning. People must be fed, watered, dressed and looked after. The village can only survive through the collective actions of individuals. Relationships are forged, things are achieved and sometimes love even blossoms.

There is even the occasional idiot.

On the field you have a mixture of youth and maturity; those with big dreams and those just trying to sweat out last night's rum. Some probably couldn't even tell you why they're out there.

Habit, perhaps, more than anything else. But they will make lifelong friends and many new ones each year. The value of joining a sporting club when you're new to an area cannot be underestimated.

So next time you're wrestling with traffic down Bondi Road on your way to submerge yourself in the refreshing azure of the ocean, spare a thought for the sweaty folk at Waverley Oval and the curious slice of heaven they have built for themselves.

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January 2016 | The Beast 79

Istri saya tidak suka kontol pendek kecil di pekpeknya.

Combatting Sexual Hang-Ups Words Matty Silver, Sex Therapist Picture Ibu Made

B

y talking to clients over the years, I've realised how common it is for people to have sexual hang-ups. Often they are insecurities, inhibitions, shame or situations that prevent them from having enjoyable sex.

Hang-ups can put a dampener on desire and may affect your sex life with your partner. It's difficult to feel sexy or be in the mood when these intrusive thoughts enter your mind. Being worried about sexual skills and performance is one of the major issues men can struggle with, especially with a new partner, and they often worry whether they’ll be as good as their new partner’s other lovers, or if they’ll lose their erection or come too quickly.

The movies have a lot to answer for in the way sex is portrayed; it is often unrealistic and confusing. On-screen sex usually shows extremely goodlooking couples connecting with each other with little or no foreplay. They orgasm within minutes and usually both at the same time, which is almost impossible to do. This sets up many for disappointment when it comes to the real thing.

Poor body image – feeling self-conscious about the way your body looks – is another hang-up that affects both genders. For the average man, his penis is his most important possession and many men experience anxiety about its size or appearance.

Some women don't like having sex with the lights on, because they don't want their partners to see their not-so-perfect bodies, but men are visual creatures and having the lights off is not

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very exciting. I often suggest having some candles burning or installing lights with a dimmer switch to help make the bedroom a place where it's fun to have sex.

Sometimes people are so insecure that they need to be told that they are good at sex, and keep asking their partners about this. There is nothing wrong with wanting some praise, but don't overdo it; craving compliments can spoil the mood. Men should also remember that women sometimes fake an orgasm because they can't stand to be pressured all the time with the question: "Have you had an orgasm yet?"

It's important for a woman to know how to have an orgasm on her own. Then she can show her partner how to do it and how she likes it. Men love it when they become good at pleasuring their partners with oral sex and, of course, when they receive it themselves.

Another hang-up is that some people believe they are too old to have sex, but with hormone replacement therapies available for women and the many male erectile dysfunction drugs on the market, older people can enjoy a healthy, enjoyable sex life into their 80s or even older.

So what should you do to overcome sexual hang-ups?

Communication is the key to sharing your feelings and worries with your partner. Talk about the things you are comfortable with doing and be honest about what you like or dislike. Together, you may be able to overcome some of your hang-ups and enjoy sex even more.

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January 2016 | The Beast 81

Album #1 Artist Jackie Onassis Album Pristine Alley Reviewer Alasdair McClintock Rating  Unfortunately, I think the Jackie Onassis ship has sailed for me. I like some of their earlier tracks, but they've slowly drifted into a weird mix of overtly American production and lame suburban raps. If One Direction or Justin Bieber released an Aussie hip-hop album it might sound something like this.

Part of me suspects they've just thought, ‘screw it, let's make some money and release an album teenage girls will like’. If they have, I tip my hat to them; it's a smart business choice. If they haven't? Well, I shudder to think what they're up to.

Album #2 Movie Review Title Truth Genre Drama Reviewer Linda Heller-Salvador Truth is a powerful political newsroom drama based on the 2005 memoir, Truth and Duty: The Press, the President, and the Privilege of Power, from the award winning former 60 Minutes producer Mary Mapes.

Set in 2004, Mapes (Cate Blanchett), along with her hotshot investigating team and lead CBS news-anchorman Dan Rather (Robert Redford), is given photocopies of documents regarding President George W. Bush’s military records.

These documents (known as the Killian Documents) apparently reveal that in 1968 he was, through family connections, fast-tracked into the Texas Air National Guard, thereby avoiding likely deployment to Vietnam.

After thorough investigation, Mapes and her team conclude the information is authentic so broadcast the controversial segment. Unfortunately the turmoil that ensues, which is boosted by corporate and political pressure, culminates in Mapes losing her job and reputation, the early retirement of Rather and the ousting of another eight people connected with the segment.

Screenwriter James Vanderbilt’s (Zodiac, Truth) directorial debut film is a strong and captivating hot-potato-of-a-drama that will undoubtedly generate intense debate. Did the President abuse his position? Was there nitpicking at play to avert attention from a major coverup? Or was it just sloppy journalism? You’ll have to watch and decide for yourself.

82 The Beast | January 2016

Artist Grimes Album Art Angels Reviewer Alasdair McClintock Rating  Sometimes eclectic, experimental albums can completely miss the mark. Grimes, however, has kicked the mark square in the face. It is sprawled on the ground, wondering what on Earth it did to deserve such a hefty boot. I truly am sorry for revelling in its pain, but it has worked out better for the rest of us. From an intro that Muse would be proud of to catchy pop numbers and everything in between – okay, maybe not everything, but a hell of a lot - if you like music, there will be a track for you here; perhaps a whole album of them.

Album #3 Artist Sarah Blasko Album Eternal Return Reviewer Alasdair McClintock Rating  Sarah Blasko has gone dark. And I like it. She's dusted off the synths, ditched the classical influences and gone for a gritty, eighties sound, which she pulls off superbly. There is deep, raw emotion behind this album, which belies the withheld delivery. It's like when your mum is so upset with you that she can't bring herself to yell. She's not just disappointed; you've actually hurt her deep within her soul - why would you do that to your own mother? She would not be disappointed with this album though. She might even go as far to say it is her favourite from Blasko thus far.

Live sculptures.

Arts & Entertainment From Around The Beaches...

Words Marcus Braid Picture Josie Luisi - @miss_j_behave

THE HATEFUL EIGHT AT THE RITZ The Ritz Cinema in Randwick is thrilled to be showing Quentin Tarantino's eighth film, The Hateful Eight, in glorious 70mm from January 14. Ticket holders will also receive a complimentary limited edition souvenir program. The Hateful Eight stars Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell and Tim Roth. Don’t miss out on seeing it a week early in 70mm as Tarantino intended at the Ritz. Book now at www.ritzcinema.com.au.

VIBES ON A SUMMER’S DAY RETURNS TO PAV Vibes On A Summer’s Day returns to the Bondi Pavilion on Sunday, January 24. Embrace the vibe with Jazzie B (Soul II Soul), Kylie Auldist (The Bamboos), nu disco pioneers Faze Action live, fellow Brits Russ Dewbury and Spikey Tee, and WA's Dr Packer. DJs Phil Smart, Sugar Ray and Simon Caldwell will lead the local charge, while the jam-packed Cu-

rator Series delivers Yolanda Be Cool, Katalyst, Funkdafied and many more. Vibes is once again the premier bastion of funk, soul, house, beats and beachy goodness. For more information and to buy your tickets, visit www.vibesonasummersday.com.

WAVERLEY JEWISH COMMUNITY WINS AWARD Waverley Council was awarded the NSW Public Libraries Association’s Multicultural Excellence Award for its Jewish community history project, ‘Eat, Pray, Naches: Jewish Community Stories’ at a recent awards ceremony. The biannual award recognises a public library for demonstrating excellence in the delivery of multicultural services. ‘Eat, Pray, Naches’ showcases the stories of Waverley’s post-war Jewish migrants, and celebrates the contributions of these individuals and their families to the area as explored through the themes of food, faith and family. The ‘Eat, Pray,

Naches’ project consists of a website, www.epn.org.au, and a travelling exhibition.

ROCK SURFERS COMMITTED TO NEXT GENERATION Rock Surfers Theatre Company wants to push culture forward, so they are launching Bondi Indie, a curated season of independent works that will run alongside their 2016 main stage season.

Submissions are now open and close next July. Rock Surfers are committed to backing the next generation of artists, and since 1997 have jumpstarted the careers of many leading Australian theatre makers, including Toby Schmitz, Kate Mulvany, Ewen Leslie, Suzie Miller, Tim Minchin, Sarah Goodes, Nick Coyle and Sarah Snook. Rock Surfers strive to build the best new contemporary theatre and performance practice, and aim to create definition around theatre in a rapidly changing world, articulating our contemporary experience. Visit www.rocksurfers.org.

back then and it was still all on vinyl. We would play from 6 to 11 and drink a million vodka cranberries.

The most exciting thing about the local music scene in Australia is... how everyone is so supportive. It really feels like people genuinely care and get excited about the success of their mates.

Our biggest fans have got to be... our parents, who also think they are A&R experts!

If I could have written any song, it would have been…

‘Erotic City’ by Prince.

The coolest.

Yolanda Be Cool Feeling The Vibes This Summer Words Dan Hutton Picture Derek Recio

T

here are few better blokes in the music industry than Eastern Beaches locals Matt Handley and Andrew Stanley, a.k.a. Yolanda Be Cool. The boys have signed up for the upcoming return of Vibes On A Summer’s Day, which will be held at the Bondi Pavilion on January 24, and we managed to fire a few questions at Matt in the lead up to the big day…

I guess we'd like to think it's dance floor friendly (and f**king cool!).

My earliest music memory is... probably an Elvis tape when I was about five years old.

The idea for the name Yolanda Be Cool came from… Pulp Fiction. If you check out the diner scene towards the end you should get the gist.

When I hear our hit single 'We No Speak Americano' these days I feel… a little bit cringey, because let's face it, it became a bit of a joke of a song. That said, I’m stoked that we made a song that got heard by so many people and, as a result, opened the doors to all the awesome things that have followed it.

I’d like to think that our music is… awesome! But seriously, we try to make music that we would want to listen to on a dance floor or at a party, so

There was this one time when we were starting out that… we used to play at Ravesi’s every Sunday for about 3 years. We called ourselves The Vandals

84 The Beast | January 2016

One person I’d still really like to record with is… Pharrell. We did get in the studio with him once and he started rapping over one of our beats and we secretly started wetting ourselves, but it never ended up being recorded.

If you ever come to see us live, you can expect… house music all night long.

We never want to get to the point where… making and playing music feels more like a job than what it feels like now – we’re in a very lucky position to get paid to do what we love and would do for free.

Vibes On A Summer's Day is going to be awesome because… it’s down the road from where we live, it's outdoors, it’s right on Bondi Beach, and the rest of the line-up is awesome. Oh, and it was the first festival we ever went to back in the day, so it holds extremely fond memories.

Our dream gig would be… in front of all our friends in the sun down at Bondi!

To book tickets for Vibes On A Summer’s Day, visit www. vibesonasummersday.com.

Subject Missiles Location Royal Randwick Photographer @daryl_duckworth_photography

Subject Ibis on the move Location Centennial Park Photographer Neil Paton

Subject Avian silhouettes Location Bronte Photographer Richard Alma

Subject Breached Location Bondi Photographer Amaury TrĂŠguer FB Morning Bondi

Subject Little longboarder Location Maroubra Photographer Nicholas Melas - @nickymelas

The Beast wants your local photographs...

Subject Back from the froth Location Bondi Photographer Claire Favre - @miss_barra

Subject Bronzed Location Bondi Photographer Miriam Chaplyn

Subject Kegged Location Bronte Photographer Andrew Midlam - @chasing_the_curl

Subject Watchdog Location North Bondi Photographer Alex Smith

Subject Morning glow Location Bondi Photographer Ron Geffin - @rongeffinphotography

...email them to photos@thebeast.com.au

The wine that started it all. Well, the 2012 version anyway.

A Date With d’Arenberg Words Alex Russell Twitter @OzWineGuy Picture Darren Berg

d

’Arenberg’s 1998 ‘Footbolt’ Shiraz was the wine that got me into wine. It was the first time I could pick out flavours in a wine, rather than just drinking for the fun of drinking.

That experience started something. I sold wine for ten years, have been writing about it for eight years, and even did a PhD on the stuff. This is why d’Arenberg holds a special place in my heart. d’Arry and Chester run the show. They’re based in McLaren Vale, a region mostly famous for Shiraz and Grenache, and they do those very well. But they also do a lot of other styles. Chances are that there will be something in their portfolio for anyone and everyone.

Most of us have blown a lot of cash over December and are looking for something gluggable at a reasonable price.

The ‘Stump Jump’ range has

88 The Beast | January 2016

a few summery white styles that would fit the bill, including a Riesling and Sauv Blanc, for around $11 (and sometimes cheaper). There are a few reds in there too.

Take a small step up in price and you’re looking at the ‘Dry Dam’ Riesling (an absolute bargain at $18), or perhaps the ‘Hermit Crab’ Viognier Marsanne ($15ish). The latter is a really interesting wine and an easy match with spicy food. The ‘Money Spider’ Roussanne ($20) is also worth a look if you’re after something different.

In the reds, the ‘Footbolt’ Shiraz ($18) is very drinkable most years. I’d also recommend d’Arry’s ‘Original’ Shiraz Grenache ($18).

You might have noticed that the names are a little quirky – all have a story. Footbolt was a horse that was sold to purchase the winery, for instance.

Are you a Pinot fan? The ‘Feral Fox’ Pinot Noir ($30) is a really interesting drop that often has that lovely funky element to it. The ‘Lucky Lizard’ Chardonnay ($25) is its stable mate and is also great value.

One of d’Arenberg’s most famous drops is the ‘Laughing Magpie’ Shiraz Viognier ($29), named so because one of Chester’s young kids couldn’t say kookaburra. Put some in your cellar. In the same ‘Artisan’ range, you’ll find personal favourites like the ‘Derelict Vineyard’ Grenache ($29) and the more elegant, and perennially awarded, ‘Galvo Garage’ Cabernet Blend ($29). d’Arenberg’s ‘Icon’ wines are the ‘Dead Arm’ Shiraz, ‘Coppermine Road’ Cabernet Sauvignon and ‘Ironstone Pressings’ GSM (all $65), all of which have a presence in my cellar, particularly the ‘Dead Arm’.

They also make some great dessert wines (including the ‘Noble Botryotinia Fuckeliana’ SSB) and their fortified wines are brilliant. There are also some single vineyard wines around. d’Arenberg’s wine club is called ‘Cenosilicaphobia’, which means ‘the fear of an empty glass’. Join up. And if you’re in McLaren Vale, give yourself a few hours to do the degustation at their restaurant. It is a delightful experience, with sweeping views and phenomenal food matched with their awesome wines. Until then, mix up a dozen on their website, www.darenberg.com.au, and try them out.

I trust that you’ve enjoyed my columns this year. Hopefully you all have a chance to put your feet up and unwind with a decent glass of something. If you'd like me to write about a particular topic next year, please let me know by emailing arussell@me.com.

School holiday fun in the Park!

Centennial Parklands Sports Camp For kids aged 6 to 13 years. Eight different sports over four days!

Monday 11 to Thursday 14 January Only $240 - Includes welcome sports pack

Puppet Making and Theatre Workshop Kids will learn the art of puppetry and create their very own puppet. Each workshop ends with a performance – parents welcome!

Tuesday 12 and Monday 18 January Only $50 for a 3 hour workshop

Book now! centennialparklands.com.au/whatson The Beast Dec 15.indd 1

PM January4/12/2015 2016 | 4:31:02 The Beast 89

A soba-ing experience.

Zucchini And Mango Soba Noodle Salad Words and Picture Marley Spoon Culinary Director Olivia Andrews

C

olour, texture and flavour all come together in perfect balance, making this soba noodle salad a quick and easy meat-free feast. Zucchini, mango and a whole lot of herbs hang out with noodles and a crunchy topping of fried Asian shallots and black sesame seeds – all they need is a tangy dressing to bring it all together.

20g caster sugar Pinch salt

side and scoop out the flesh then thinly slice.

Cook noodles - Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil.

Cook the soba noodles for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Drain and rinse well under cold running water then place on an oven tray in the fridge to cool completely.

Dress noodles - Place the noodles in a large bowl and add the dressing, mixing well to coat.

Cooking time 30 minutes

Prepare chilli and garlic - Finely chop the chilli, removing the seeds for less heat if desired.

Finely chop the garlic.

Ingredients 2 x 90g bundles soba noodle 1 long red chilli 1 garlic clove (¼ cup (60ml) rice vinegar 2 tsp tamarind puree 20ml (4 tsp) soy sauce 15ml (3 tsp) sesame oil 2 zucchini 1 red onion (use half) 20g coriander 15g mint 10g Thai basil 1 ripe mango (use half) Noodle garnish (3 tbs (20g) fried shallots + 1 tsp black sesame seeds)

90 The Beast | January 2016

Prepare dressing - In a small saucepan, gently warm the vinegar, sugar and a pinch of salt for 1 minute, or until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat, adding the chilli, garlic, tamarind puree, soy sauce and sesame oil.

Prepare ingredients - Coarsely grate the zucchini. Using a mandolin or knife, slice half of the onion paper-thin. Pick the leaves of the coriander, mint and Thai basil. Cut a mango cheek off one

Get ready to serve - Add the sliced onion, mango and grated zucchini to the noodles, then add in three quarters of the herbs, mixing well to combine.

Serve the salad topped with noodle garnish and remaining herbs.

Every Marley Spoon meal takes around 30 minutes to prepare, in only six steps.

These meals can be delivered to your door, with all the ingredients you need, in minimal, recyclable packaging.

With a cooking hotline for any questions about the recipe, the only thing you’ll have simmering is your delicious dinner. Marley Spoon is available across Sydney now, and meals start from $9.99. Visit www.marleyspoon.com.au.

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The second best use for a frozen banana.

Summer Cashew-Coffee Smoothie A Guilt Free Pick-Me-Up Words and Picture Tamika Woods

I

n the summer heat we often find ourselves searching for an afternoon pick-me-up that is cool and refreshing yet also keeps us on track with our beach body goals.

Enter the cashew-coffee smoothie. Perfectly thick and creamy, this smoothie is an ideal swap for that milk and sugar laden iced coffee that the ‘old you’ would’ve opted for without a second thought.

Sweetened naturally with banana and dates, this creamy drink packs a seven-gram plant protein punch to get you through the afternoon slump.

This recipe only takes five minutes to throw together, however it does require some pre-planning. You’ll need to soak your cashews and freeze a banana in advance. I always keep a few frozen bananas in the freezer, just for these types of occasions. If you’ve ever got

92 The Beast | January 2016

any bananas in the fruit bowl that are starting to blacken, peel them immediately, chop into chunks, place them in a container and pop them straight in the freezer for later.

Ingredients (serves 2) 2 shots espresso coffee (if you don’t have a coffee machine, simply mix 2 tsp instant coffee with 2 tbsp hot water) 1 tray ice cubes 1/2 cup cashews (soaked overnight) 1 frozen banana (peel and chop into chunks before freezing) 2 Medjool dates, pitted 1/4 cup water 1 pinch salt 1 tsp vanilla essence Coconut flakes, to serve 1. Make the espresso shots and place in the freezer to cool slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Add ice cubes to a high strength blender and process until they’re finely crushed.

3. Add all remaining ingredients including the drained cashews and process until smooth.

4. Serve in a tall glasses with a sprinkling of coconut flakes.

Enjoy!

Tamika Woods is a Nutritional Medicine student and founder of Sproutly Stories, a new health food blog designed to translate evidence-based information into digestible pieces of knowledge. Her wholesome recipe ideas inspire others to implement their health learnings in an easy and delicious way. For more guilt free recipes, check out sproutlystories.com.

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"Bloody delicious."

The Lion and Buffalo Words Madeleine Gray Picture Grant Brooks

S

outh Coogee has never really been a suburb associated with great coffee, gourmet food, and vintage typewriters. But that is beginning to change with the establishment of the Lion and Buffalo café on Malabar Road. Located just a five-minute walk up Cuzco Street from the Coogee to Maroubra Coast Walk, this place is fast becoming a local favourite, and it is not hard to see why.

The café is run by husband and wife duo, Dean and Anna.

Dean chucklingly tells us that he is more than happy for Anna to be the ‘face’ of the business, and the reason is clear: from the moment we enter the front door, Anna is a whirlwind of warmth and hospitality. The murals on the walls echo this ambiance.

They are painted by Fintan Ma-

94 The Beast | January 2016

gee, an Australian street artist whose work is currently taking the world by storm. The largest image is that of a reclining woman, holding a bunny rabbit, while a timepiece lies forgotten at her feet. In this clever subversion of the classic Alice in Wonderland tale, the painting plainly tells us to slow down, chill out, and ignore the clock.

So we do just this.

Dean tells us a bit about the ethos of the café: he and Anna wanted to create a beautiful little space with a small but perfectly formed modern Australian menu. The décor is a mixture of industrial styling (check out the awesome steel fan on the ceiling) and quirky retro touches. Single Origin Roaster’s ex-head chef Nick Smith designed the menu, and

what eventuated is a testament to the simplicity of Anna and Dean’s desire. Banished are the unpronounceable food names and superfluous choices.

Ingredients are sourced locally wherever possible, and a range of herbs and plants are actually grown in the garden out the back. Crucially for carbohydrate lovers, the bread is top-notch stuff. The sourdough is from Iggy’s, and the panini is by the Bread and Butter Project, an offshoot of Bourke Street Bakery, which trains refugees in baking and employment pathways.

We tried a selection of taste sensations. The coffee is Single Origin, and it is satisfying stuff.

The smoked salmon on sourdough with house made labne, pickled fennel and salmon roe is bloody delicious. The steak sandwich goes above and beyond too, with perfectly cooked Mayura Station wagyu beef, red onion jam, Maffra cheddar, radicchio, tomato, house pickles and house aioli. But the real winner – and it is some tough competition – is the bacon and egg roll. Between a delectable olive oil panini sits not one, but two perfectly fried organic eggs, crispy bacon, caramelised onion, aged cheese, slaw, and house espresso barbecue sauce.

Get that into you.

Next time you’re in South Coogee, or even if you’re not, we definitely recommend checking out this little gem. And for your own sake, get the bacon and egg roll.

The Lion and Buffalo www.thelionandbuffalo.com.au Address 203 Malabar Road, South Coogee.

Phone 0447 685 466 Insta @thelionandbuffalo Facebook www.facebook. com/thelionandbuffalo Opening Hours 7am – 4pm daily (closed 21 – 26 Dec, 2015) Prices $10 - $25 Card Accepted Yes Licensed/BYO No

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doublebay.centre@lindamoodbell.com LindamoodBell.com.au January 2016 | The Beast 95

The Beast Supercross 1

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Across 1. Legendary LA Lakers basketballer (4,6) 7. Path that planets take around the sun (5) 8. Provokes laughter (6) 9. Figure of speech with two contradictory elements (8) 10. Witnessed; sharp cutting tool (3) 12. Cinderella’s lost shoe (5,7) 15. Place to buy a wide variety of goods (7,5) 18. Either (2) 19. What a person is legally owed (12) Down 1. Japanese city where international environmental treaty was born (5) 2. American singer-songwriter

once played by Cate Blanchett, Christian Bale and Heath Ledger in the same film (3,5) 3. Objects that hold coats together (7) 4. Expression of joy; search engine (5) 5. French three (5) 6. Cocktail with vodka and orange juice; tool (12) 11. One who is sent away; a messenger or ambassador (7) 12. Look with wide-open eyes, typically in amazement (6) 13. Former Australian fast bowler, Dennis … (6) 14. Worry; part of a guitar (4) 16. Edible seeds; crazy person (3) 17. Decompose (3)

Beast Local Trivia Words Kate Myers Picture Hadass Segal 1. True or false: The flush toilet was invented by Thomas Crapper?

2. Which character is portrayed

by Lupita Nyong’o in Star Wars: The Force Awakens?

3. In what city was the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference held?

Spring splash.

96 The Beast | January 2016

4. How many capital cities does South Africa have?

5. Which English musician recently played the Hordern as part of his ‘All The Hits’ tour?

6. How many islands are located in Sydney Harbour?

7. Which Vance Joy song was nominated for Song of the Year

at the 2015 Aria Awards?

8. In what year were the first New Year’s Eve fireworks on Sydney Harbour held?

9. Does a Lazy Cisticola have feathers, fur or fins?

10. The famous Shark Arm Murder case played out on which Eastern Suburbs beach?

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PISCES Feb 20-Mar 20 Decision-making and sound judgment have never been your specialty. The less discretion you allow yourself the better.

LEO Jul 24-Aug 23 A small fire you've been tolerating for a while now needs to be extinguished before it rages into an all-consuming furnace.

ARIES Mar 21-Apr 20 Why must you always hold eternal grudges? A little blow-up followed by forgiveness will lighten your load and improve your life.

VIRGO Aug 24-Sep 23 Your inability to see a project through to completion is matched only by your ability to blame everyone else for your failure.

TAURUS Apr 21-May 20 Anyone who makes you wait does not respect you or value your time, and they certainly don't deserve either.

LIBRA Sep 24-Oct 23 Quit ranting about how trustworthy you are. You can't even trust yourself; how can you expect anyone else to trust you?

CAPRICORN Dec 23-Jan 20 The person who wakes you up is not your friend. Sleep deprivation is torture and no one should be friends with their torturer.

GEMINI May 21-Jun 21 In a world of fishes and ponds, you will be always be a small fish regardless of which pond you happen to find yourself in.

SCORPIO Oct 24-Nov 22 You need to start getting comfortable with the fact that you're going to look a little bit shitter every day for the rest of your life.

AQUARIUS Jan 21-Feb 19 No amount of exercise is ever going to burn off the amount of shit you put in your body. Address this or face eternal fatness.

CANCER Jun 22-Jul 23 You will notice a disproportionately large number of people with really long torsos and short legs, which means absolutely nothing.

SAGITTARIUS Nov 23-Dec 22 Simplify your life by setting fire to as many bridges as possible and removing the heavy burden of decision-making.

Star Signs

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