The Village Observer

PERIN LEGAL I LANE COVE

ADVOs and Family Law Parenting Proceedings

Last year, my practice represented an increasing number of parents in family law proceedings who were also issued with provisional Apprehended Domestic Violence Orders (ADVOs).

The primary question from parents in receipt of provisional and/or final ADVOs is: “Will it affect my chances in the family law proceedings?”. My professional answer is “it may”. The determining factor of whether an ADVO ultimately affects a parent’s family law outcome for parenting is determined by the final ADVO and whether other criminal charges accompany it.

Firstly, an ADVO is not a criminal charge. Rather it is a court order that is issued to an individual to assist the person to regulate their behaviour when in the company of the victim. It is not based on a finding of guilt and nor does it appear on a person’s criminal record. It is however heard at the Local Court (within its criminal list of the General Division) as provisional ADVOs are issued by the Police. At Court, an accused faced with a provisional ADVO can either: 1) Defend the ADVO resulting in a plea of not guilty being entered from a defended and a hearing will subsequently occur 2) Accept the ADVO as presented to the Court and is commonly dealt with immediately, or 3)

Accept the ADVO on a “without admissions basis”. The latter tells the court that you are prepared to accept the requirements of an ADVO but without affirming the Police allegations. The Police often request the Court to make an ADVO Order for a duration of two years. However, there are exceptions to this rule and the order can be reduced to 12 months as experienced first-hand on two occasions last year.

Secondly, if an ADVO is breached, that is, you contravene the ADVO, the contravention is converted to a criminal charge. All breaches are viewed by the courts as acutely serious. If you have an ADVO or any other criminal charge listed for hearing, and you are in the middle of Family Court proceedings involving children, the Family Court will seek to ensure that the ADVO charge and/or additional criminal matters have been finalised before progressing with the family law matter. The Family Court’s justification for adopting this position stems from its primary concerns for the safety and well-being of all children involved in Family Court parenting matters. Once the ADVO and/ or criminal matter has finalised, the Family Court will progress the family proceedings as expeditiously as possible to final orders.

If you require legal assistance with Police ADVOs, criminal charges, traffic law matters, family law proceedings and Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) please don’t hesitate to contact Perin Legal.

(02) 8901 5059 Level 1, Suite 1.03, 102-104 Longueville Rd, Lane Cove www.perinlegal.com.au

Powering Our Community

Proceeds from The Village Observer supports residents of Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Ryde, Willoughby and North Sydney, via Sydney Community Services – a local not-for-profit organisation that helps people to live a quality and independent life in their own home and in their community.

Local Support for Local People

SCS provides services to seniors and people living with a disability including social activities, gardening, home nursing, podiatry, linen, home delivered meals, home modifications and maintenance, flexible respite, carers support, shopping services, community and engagement programs, medical transport and assistance in daily life.

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The Village Observer is published monthly (except January) by Sydney Community Services (trading as Lane Cove Community Aid Foundation) • Distribution occurs at the beginning of the month • Readers are invited to submit articles for consideration.

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Thank you... as a local, small publication, run by a not-for-profit charity, TVO relies on our advertisers and partners to come to life every month. We’d like to extend a big thank you to this month’s supporters:

EDITOR'S LETTER

At time of writing, the winter solstice is upon us. Sydney will get just short of 10 hours of daylight with the sun skirting low in the sky. The light in this part of the world is really special at this time of year and it’s certainly worth spending some time in the beautiful outdoor spaces that the lower north shore has to offer.

We received an extraordinary number of stories and contributions in June, perhaps more than ever before. Something was in the air. We’ve worked hard to include as many as we can, although some had to be put on hold for future months. Thank you to everyone who appreciates the beauty, convenience and reach of TVO.

If truth be told, the advertising market is hard. It's tough out there as the cost-of-living crisis bites. We’re owned by Sydney Community Services and we’re a not-for-profitbecause of that, there is no backer or publishing company propping us up. We can’t afford for income to slide and being a 30-year-old much-loved publication, we know how important it is for us to protect this community asset.

To keep TVO alive we need supporters. If your business can do that – either by advertising, or helping to distribute copies, then please get in touch. Our readership is strong and not one copy is ever left over (in fact, last month we ran short too early on and could have printed more).

Happy reading! There’s lots in store so sit back, grab a coffee and enjoy some quiet time with us.

Nicola

NICOLA RICHES EDITOR editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

FRONT COVER IMAGE "Cooper Creek Wildflowers" Western Queensland Chanel Country Stu Murphy - Australian Artist stuartmurphy.com.au

Proposed Boundary Changes

It is most likely that you would have seen the news about the disbanding of the North Sydney Federal Electorate, and how that affects the lower north shore. Here’s a recap of those changes, plus reiteration of the state electorates and the councils (just to be completely comprehensive).

The Federal Electorate of North Sydney is set to be split into three and merged with the existing electorates of Bennelong, Bradfield and Warringah.

Bennelong has been stretched eastward and now encompasses Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Woolwich, Greenwich and Longueville. It has been pulled back from some of its most westerly suburbs, losing Epping and North Epping, which now move into Parramatta.

Bennelong’s current MP is Labor’s Jerome Laxale, who won the seat in the last election. It is only the second time in 70 years that a Labor MP has held the seat.

Warringah gains Crows Nest, Cammeray, Wollstonecraft, Kirribilli, North Sydney and Cremorne. Its current MP is Independent, Zali Steggall.

St Leonards, Willoughby, Northbridge and Castle Crag will move into Bradfield. Its MP is Liberal’s Paul Fletcher who has held the seat since 2009.

All the State boundaries will remain the same, comprising Lane Cove (Liberal’s Anthony Roberts MP), Willoughby (Liberal’s Tim James MP) and North Shore (Liberal’s Felicity Wilson MP).

The councils that fall within the new federal boundaries will continue to be Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Ryde, Willoughby and North Sydney.

The NORTH Foundation is the charity partner of your local healthcare services including Royal North Shore Hospital, Ryde Hospital and many more. Your health district is also home to the oldest medical research organisation in NSW, the Kolling Institute. Support the future of healthcare with a tax-deductible donation to cancer services, mental health programs, aged-care or renal research - whatever area of health that matters the most to you.

Advertise in The Village Observer and support your local community

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Northcott’s Kenny celebrates 100 in style

In last month’s issue, you may have read the story about Lane Cove resident Elsie Grace Dare, AKA Kenny who turned 100 on June 3.

We wanted to bring you a little report on Kenny’s birthday celebrations where she was thrilled to receive a personal card of congratulations from King Charles and Queen Camilla.

‘I was very pleased to receive the card from Charles and Camilla at my lovely birthday party,’ Kenny said. ‘And it looks like their real signatures too,’ she added with a chuckle.

Kenny was also delighted to receive three further special cards congratulating her on turning 100: one from His Excellency Governor General the Honourable David Hurley, AC DSC (Retd), Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia, another card from the Honourable Margaret Beazley, AC KC Governor of NSW and one from Anthony Roberts, MP – Member for Lane Cove.

Kenny is seen here celebrating her birthday at the party organised by the Vasey Housing Association that runs the Northcott Gardens retirement village where Kenny lives.

Emma Grimes, Michael Fitzgerald & Peter Louridas A family business, now in our 48th year in Lane Cove

‘I thoroughly enjoyed my party. My two sons, Tony and Michael came along and lots of people from where I live were there too. I got to drink a glass of pink champagne and enjoy some nice sandwiches, and I was given some lovely flowers and the biggest birthday cake I think I have ever seen,’ Kenny laughed.

2024 Lane Cove Art Award- Call for Entries

Lane Cove Art Society invites all Australian artists to enter the prestigious 2024 Lane Cove Art Award.

The acquisitive 1st prize is $15,000 (sponsored by Lane Cove Council), 2nd prize is $2,000 (sponsored by Hyecorp Property Group), and 3rd prize is $1,000 (sponsored by Centrehouse Inc).

The finalists' exhibition will be held at Gallery Lane Cove from 18 September to 6 October 2024, with the opening night 20 September. Entries are now open at: lanecoveartsociety.com.au/ the-lane-cove-art-award ENTRIES CLOSE 4 AUGUST!

Lane Cove Author Tania Gold to speak at LC Library

Lane Cove local author Tania Gold will join LC Library to discuss her latest novel A Helping Hand, released April 2024. Tania is a writer of contemporary and paranormal romance fiction, and discusses common tropes in romance fiction, including ‘enemies to lovers’ and the ‘one night stand’, in her work.

Tania has published four adult novels since 2021, and her book Prophecy of a Vampire was a finalist in the 2023 American Fiction Awards.

Three Lane Cove council area residents recognised in King’s Birthday honours

The Lane Cove residents who were recipients this year included: Miss Heather Elizabeth Garnsey, for services to genealogy, Mr John Francis Ford for services to community health and Mrs Concetta Perna for significant services to the Australian Italian Community.

Bloomingtails founder Candice Seckold wins prestigious awards in London

Candice Seckold, owner of Lane Cove-based business, Bloomingtails, has won three Women Changing The World Awards at a ceremony attended by the Duchess of York in London. Candice was bestowed with the Entrepreneur of the Year Award, Environmental Award, and Business of the Year Award.

Bloomingtails is a multi-faceted business that caters for all your pets’ needs from daycare to grooming, holiday care, pet accessories and more.

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^ Roy

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17/06/2024

Miss Heather Elizabeth Garnsey

Mr John Francis FordMrs Concetta Perna

Q&A Catherine Cox AM

If Waverton local Catherine Cox looks familiar to you, it’s because you may have seen her on the front page of the Sydney Morning Herald or holding up trophies for NSW and Australia during her long and successful netball career, or more recently, commentating netball games on Fox Sports.

One of netball’s best ever best Goal Shooters, Cath scored more than 2000 goals for Australia and was part of the national team, the Diamonds, for 16 years. She is one of only a handful of players who represented Australia more than 100 times, captaining the team on seven occasions.

Nowadays, she is a netball commentator on Fox Sports for Suncorp Super Netball and test matches, is the host of the weekly podcast No Dribble and mother of one.

In 2022, she was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame and became a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to netball as a player and coach.

 You live in Waverton - have you always been local?

No, I grew up in the Hills District before moving to the Northern Beaches and then finally landing on the Lower North Shore.

 Why the Lower North Shore?

I love its proximity to EVERYTHING! I spend most of my time at Homebush and/or the airport so it’s central for both. It’s extremely handy for work too with Fox Sports just up the road in Artarmon.

I also love the neighbourhood. It’s leafy and pretty quiet for a bustling suburb and everything you could possible want/need is only a short walk away. I often walk up to Crows Nest for a bite to eat.

 When/where did you start playing netball?

I started playing netball with I was 11 and my first club was Beecroft Netball Club. We would play down at Pennant Hills Park Netball Courts on a Saturday.

 How old were you when you thought you wanted to play for the Diamonds?

It actually wasn’t something I dreamed of as a kid. Probably because it wasn’t a sport I saw on TV, so I didn’t really know about the ‘big girls’ and what they could do. It was when I made my first NSW state team at the age of 16 that I was given a sheet with the path to the Australian Diamonds on it that I thought about trying to get to the top. I managed to and even skipped a few of the steps in the development path on the way.

 What’s your netball career highlight?

Oh wow. I’ve been so so blessed in my career, it’s so hard to choose just one. Domestically it would be the National League Premiership with the NSW Swifts (2004, 2006, 2007, 2008) and my last ever game of netball resulting in another Premiership with the Melbourne Vixens are pretty special memories.

On the international stage: Commonwealth Games Gold Medal in 2002 (where we eventually won

in double overtime vs NZ) and World Championship Wins in 2007 and 2011 are hard to beat.

 When did you know it was time to retire?

Ha. When I lost the love of the challenge. I remember doing a shooting drill at training and we had to shoot 50 in a row (with a defender on us) before we could stop. I got to 48 on the first attempt and then it took me FOREVER! I used to find that challenge really fun but that day I got frustrated and even kicked the netball onto the neighbouring court when I finished. Time to go!!! Ha

 What keeps you busy now?

Work definitely keeps me busy. I travel a bit around the country for work as I commentate all of the games in the Super Netball League. I love the travel component. Otherwise, I’m here commentating games in Homebush or in the studio at Fox Sports. I also do a podcast called No Dribble once a week. It’s super fun. I’m also a mum of a daughter who’s playing NetSetGo at the moment. I coach her team. Now THAT’S hard work!

 What's your go-to place for coffee in the 'hood?

Cafe Eighty Ate is definitely my go-to. Coffee every day and a good breaky catch up with my friends at least once a week. I also love a little tipple at KNIRD Wine Bar whenever I get the chance (not often enough). You’ll also find me at Cafe 107. Anthony is one of my greatest mates, so I always pop in there for a chat, a laugh…. and a great coffee too!

 Any other local secrets you can share with us?

I can’t tell you that! Then they wouldn’t be secrets anymore.

Feeling like you want a giggle on the way to work? Catherine and her friends have the answer for you.

NO DRIBBLE is a half-hour weekly podcast described as being the next-best thing to touring with the Diamonds, reminiscent of the best and most entertaining conversations netball lovers have had on the way to netball, on the side-lines at netball, and at the pub after netball.

Former Australian Diamonds Captain and host of The Project, Liz Ellis AO has joined forces with Catherine Cox AM to launch the podcast with someone they describe as being their ‘short mate’.

Someone well-known to TVO readers, that short mate is local comedian and writer, Carolyn Swindell, and NO DRIBBLE is a podcast for the community that surrounds and supports Australia’s most popular sport for female participation, netball.

The three women have been friends for more than 20 years and it shows in their easy dynamic.

“NO DRIBBLE starts with our friendship and our love of netball as a launchpad to talk about the things that matter to women. And let’s face it, there’ll also be talk about things that really don’t

You

matter but are a good chat anyway,” said Liz Ellis. These days, netball is the biggest team sport in Australia, played by over 1.2 million women, men and children all over the country. It’s also the number one participation sport for Australian girls. Carolyn Swindell says people wondering about her netball credentials will be pleased to hear that she played Wing Defence in the Top End Indoor Cricket Sunday Mixed Netball June 1996 winning team and currently coaches an Under 11 team for Gladesville Ravens.

NO DRIBBLE is produced by DM Podcasts, the team behind The Betoota Advocate and ABC TV’s Leigh Sales and Annabel Crabb’s highly-successful Chat 10, Looks 3 podcast. Founder Antony Stockdale said there is a gap in the entertainment market for adult netball fans that treats them as more than just fans of the game, but as savvy, interesting and vibrant individuals.

‘NO DRIBBLE is the podcast for people who may never have listened to a podcast,’ Stockdale said.

Catherine with friends Liz Ellis AO and Carolyn Swindell

The Exhibition of Failed Ideas

by Liz Foster

Is it just me or is technology a bit too clever for its own good?

My mother-in-law's is vision impaired so she wears a personal alarm-cum-pager on a lanyard, giving us all peace of mind. It’s set to call my brother-in-law George as first responder. Unfortunately, it’s a sensitive thing, going off willy nilly when she’s out and about. George can speak to her through the device but she’s also hard of hearing.

‘I could hear George’s voice and I thought, he must be at the shops somewhere!’ she says, while George is yelling away in panic. She’s confused about which button to press to reset it, which is another story. But since these devices have been developed specifically for our seniors, I feel more effort should be made by the manufacturer to DO BETTER.

Technology’s life cycle barely spans five years these days before becoming redundant. CES is the world’s most powerful tech event, designed to showcase the next big things in the tech world. But today’s shiny and new thing is tomorrow’s flop. Some of these flops make it back to the show mere years after they debuted there, thanks to "The Exhibition of Failed Ideas."

No one is safe, and larger companies may actually have a greater chance of getting a product into this hall of shame. There's an argument that some products were just released a bit before their time (remember the weird LG fridge with inbuilt internet screen?) and either the technology or demand just wasn't there yet. Others were just downright strange, bad or, in some cases, dangerous.

There’s a good reason you’ve probably never heard of the Apple Pippin. Launched in 1996, before the advent of Smart devices, it was a sort of gaming console/PC combo intended to take on PlayStation and Nintendo. Expensive, confusing, inflexible, and non-mindful of cultural differences, within ten years it made PC World’s list of the "25 Worst Tech Products of All Time.

Microsoft’s Zune, launched in 2006, looked just like a modern smartphone; an MP3 player intended to tackle Apple iPods head on. Alas, their timing sucked – too late for a bespoke music device and not advanced enough for an all-in-one device. It lasted less than six years before being withdrawn.

When smartphones did take off, Amazon decided they wanted a piece of the action. The new Fire Phone, launched in 2014, was priced to compete directly with the likes of the Samsung Galaxy and Apple's iPhone. But Apple and Samsung had the market cornered by then. The Fire Phone went on a giant Fire Sale for $0.99, with another $170 million worth of unsold inventory getting dumped.

A cursory glance through Kickstarter, a crowd finding platform for start-ups, reveals some interesting options for

ILLUSTRATION BY GRACE KOPSIAFTIS

those interested/silly enough to dive in. There’s still time to back the Aerocast headset if you’re keen, which connects you to public devices via Bluetooth. The sales video shows people in all sort of ambient noise settings trying to hear (tourist tours, aeroplanes, classroom students). I love this theory but it’s a) a bit Big Brother, – and b) given the unreliability of the Bluetooth connection between my earphones and the bike at my gym, seems fraught with danger. It’s already raised nearly $15,000 so watch this space.

The Snuuzu combines old fashioned comfort with cutting edge technology – it’s a double mattress tailored to fit in a Tesla Model Y car boot, which conveniently folds back into a duffel bag (the technology aspect is less clear). In case you’re wondering, the model Y is about the same size as a Ford Focus, and retails from $55,000.

‘Something that helps us raise the standard of future road trips forever,’ extols the blurb. I’m a huge fan of road trips but I can’t see this one taking off, unless you’re an exceedingly small person whose spent all their money on the car and can’t afford a room – though current pledges of $160,000 say otherwise.

Are you keen to reach a new level of wellness? Say hello to ExerRing, an innovative Smart ring which tracks your every move and heartbeat. This doesn’t seem overly different to a smartwatch, with presumably the same pitfalls, i.e. rapid loss of charge. It’s unclear if the ring actually does the exercise for you.

I could try it for my mother-in-law but she’s just as likely to leave it in the public bathroom as she is to knock her pager so it’s back to square one on that front. At least we can be sure that the next big thing is just around the corner.

Liz Foster is a local writer. Her debut fiction novel, The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices, is out now with Affirm Press.

You can reach her by scanning this QR code to subscribe to her monthly light bites and lifestyle newsletter, or emailing liz@lizfoster.com.au.

ASPECTS

When: June 4 2024, in the afternoon

What: Relatively rare clouds, Altocumulus Volutus

Where: Lane Cove

'I had never seen anything like it before,' said our photographer Miki Oka. 'I am sure I wasn’t the only one to notice it.'

Great !!! Lakes

My two-month autumn sojourn has this year included travel to parts of the USA that I’ve never previously visited and what a joyful discovery it has been.

By Adrienne Witteman.

We arrived in lakeside Chicago and my immediate impression was wow, what a great looking city. Like New York, the typical streetscape comprises one skyscraper after another and most of these are mirror glass clad. However, while each might jostle for first prize in the looks department there seems not to be an ugly building. The juxtaposition of historic and recent is stunning.

Walk outside of the building onto busy North Michigan Avenue and yes there are 8 lanes of noisy traffic. Yet the busy pavements are lined with garden beds of brightly coloured spring annuals, banners celebrate the current free Jazz Festival and forthcoming Pride Week, there is no graffiti to be seen and no rubbish bins overflowing with garbage. Boats ply the river, and for tourists a river cruise with architectural tour is a must do. You’ll learn plenty about the history of Chicago and almost certainly come away impressed by how Chicago has managed to grow this up while still keeping the vibe warm and welcoming.

In some respects, it might look like New York, yet I felt Chicago was more normal, nicer, not brash. It appeared very liveable – at least on a summer’s day! The humans too seemed more relaxed, less harried. Smartly outfitted and less look-at-me with fewer fish lips, enhanced bosoms and killer stillettos.

My primary reason for visiting Chicago was because next year Trendsetter will take a group on a Tauck Great Lakes Tour, sailing onboard Ponant, and a stay there bookends this cruise. Another reason was the chance to visit Mackinac Island on Lake Huron, where our cruise will stop for a day and having heard so many good things about this State Park, I wanted to check it for myself.

And it is. What a fascinating place. I’ve never visited anywhere like Mackinac Island in my life.

The island, with only around 500 full time residents, is famous for its no cars policy. All transport is by horse and carriage/wagon or bicycle, and the

latter cannot be electric. Save for some strictly controlled motor mowers, and rarely seen emergency vehicles (an ambulance, two fire trucks and one police car) there is no noise. All you will hear are the sounds of happy people and clip clopping horses.

Most people arrive via ferry from Mackinaw City and spill out into a town centre brimming with lifestyle shops, fudge shops (reputedly the best fudge in all the USA) and restaurants. Walk, or ride, 200M in each direction and you’ll be in residential streets, each neatly presented home or accommodation sat among lovely gardens. There are beaches, gardens, theatre, art galleries, a golf course, and one of America’s most historic hotels, The Grand.

For me, a visit simply to stay at The Grand will be a good enough reason to return. It’s like a time capsule updated to incorporate the necessities of modern day living while continuing to pay homage to some of the more genteel sensibilities of the past – a jacket and tie for men after 6, dancing nightly from 9.00 p.m., evening cocktails and more.

I don’t have the space here to tell you everything I enjoyed on this reconnoitre trip but am happy to talk with you should our Great Lakes cruise tour (17/30 August 2025) be of interest. It is definitely worth your consideration.

Next year Trendsetter will take a group on a Tauck Great Lakes Cruise Tour, sailing onboard Ponant - 17/30 August 2025 contact us for more information.

The shift in the third age and how our view of retirement is in flux

Recent research undertaken separately by KPMG, the University of Sydney and Equip Super all points to the same thing: we live in an ageing society where people in the third age are staying in the workforce. Some say this has come about because of the cost-of-living crisis, but research shows that’s not the entire picture. This change has been 20 years in the making.

There’s a line that can be drawn between those who think that retirement beyond 70 is inevitable for them, and those who are confident that, by 70, they will have permanently clocked off. Which side you fall can depend on any number of reasons.

According to this recent headline: “Australians pushing retirement into their 70s amid cost-of-living crisis,” more people are switching camps.

Only a quarter (26%) of Australian workers plan to retire at 65, according to research commissioned by Equip Super, which says that many are planning to work longer in response to financial pressures.

“Those delaying their retirement are doing so by an average of six years, meaning many people are choosing to work until they are in their 70s. Almost four in 10 (39%) listed the rising cost of living as the reason for this delay,” said Equip.

The company interviewed Diane Benham, a 70-year-old Sydney resident, who has chosen to delay her retirement.

"I started working at 15, and now at 70, I am still working 20 hours a week.

“Delaying retirement wasn't always part of my plan, but with expenses rising, it's slightly worrying to think about life without an income.

"We just don't know what's around the corner. Although we're fortunate to own our home, there are ongoing maintenance costs, and everything from shopping to car expenses keeps increasing. Every time you go to the shops it seems to cost more money,” she said.

Diane is presented as an example of the 39% cohort that has delayed retirement because of the cost-of-living crisis.

An analysis by KPMG found that 20 years ago, Australian men planned on downing tools at the average age of 63, and women, 61.

In the last two decades, that has increased by at least three years for both males and females. Now, it sits at an average of 66 for men, and almost 65 for women.

Regardless of the cost-of-living crisis, KPMG showed that the planned retirement age has been slowly creeping up, and what is certainly happening is that the planned age of retirement is coming very close to the age at which

WORDS: NICOLA RICHES

an Australians can access the Government Age Pension, which is 67 years (this came into effect exactly one year ago for those born after 1952).

“The adoption of working from home has made many older Australians in professional jobs realise that they could ‘semi-retire’ and continue to dabble in the workforce from home or even from a coastal location,” says KPMG Urban Economist, Terry Rawnsley.

Rawnsley explained that older workers who remained in the labour force during COVID-19 have increased the expected age of retirement, thereby filling vital gaps in the Australian labour market.

Between 2019 and 2021, the Australian labour force grew by 185,000 people, with those aged 55 and over representing almost 70 percent (127,000) of that increase.

With the return of international migration and the growth in the under-55 labour force, the share of over-55s fell to 21.3 percent in 2023. However, it is still a significant number.

“Even in a tight labour market, we may have reached a plateau in the expected age of retirement, suggesting we cannot expect older workers to continue working longer. This is because we simply can't find enough older workers to sustain the growth that occurred during the COVID-19 era,” he said..

That plateau is not a given, despite KMPG’s current outlook. The trend to working longer is being driven by improved job flexibility in “knowledge intensive” roles; tighter labour market conditions; better health and education; big mortgages and having children later; a more flexible workforce and technology that allows us to work from anywhere.

It seems that if you want to work past 67 years, there are ways to do so.

Interestingly, working until you’re close to 70, or even over 70, is commonplace in countries such as Japan and South Korea. The reason for that, however, is that those are ageing societies with low birth rates.

for every five working age Australians there will be almost two older people.

Currently, people now are expected to live for 16 years after retirement and society is starting to shift its thinking around what retirement means.

Lee-Fay Low said research shows that while evidence suggests that keeping active is beneficial for health, “delaying retirement and active retirement might also have health benefits.”

We live in an ageing society where people in the third age are staying in the workforce

Australia is not immune to this. According to statistics and research by the University of Sydney, Australia is getting older, faster.

By 2026, more than 22 percent of Australians will be aged over 65 — up from 16 percent in 2020, which was already double the 8.3 percent at the start of the 1970s.

Lee-Fay Low is Professor in Ageing and Health at the University of Sydney. She explained that this demographic change is partly due to the baby boom of the 1950s and 1960s and a falling birth rate, but it’s underpinned by something positive: Australians are living on average 30 years longer than they were a century ago.

For children born between 2019-2021, boys have a life expectancy of 81 and girls 85. As they grow into adulthood, this will change how Australia looks at and thinks about ageing.

The old-age dependency ratio is the number of people aged 65 and over for every 100 people of traditional working age — 15 to 64. It is projected to climb to a point where, by 2063,

“Businesses could start to view older people as a workforce asset — older workers have valuable soft skills and expertise. Ageist stereotypes about older people in the workforce hurt would-be workers and their potential employers, who miss their talents.

“To entice older people to keep working, incentives like flexible working conditions can be brought in, allowing longer periods of unpaid leave for travel or allowances to care for grandchildren.

“We all have a story in our head about how our lives may play out, stories from our families and our communities.

“These are usually grounded in ageist thinking, tending to show a simple arc where you grow up, get a job, get a partner, have children, grow old and die.

“There are far fewer stories about growing old and finding new loves, starting new jobs and having more adventures,”

Lee-Fay Low explained in her research article: “Confronting ageing: the talk Australia has to have.”

“This shift in demographics will change society, meaning we will need to develop new stories of the third age about contribution and fulfillment instead of stories of decline, care and death.

“Communities can embrace the opportunities that can come with getting older and shift the conversation from financial burden, to societal benefit,” she concluded.

Fifty Firsts for Fifty Females –

come and be a

part of something transformative

Back in May, TVO interviewed Willoughby’s Julie Donnell, a local woman who dreamed up a ‘50 Firsts’ passion project after she hit 50-years-old and felt a desire to step out of her comfort zone and try new things.

To make it achievable, Julie made many of these experiences bite-sized activities (donating blood or going down the water slide at the aquatic centre) and within three months she had the entire 50 under her belt (she has not stopped since). The project turned out to be a revelation, delivering so many positives to Julie’s life, and many of them unexpected. Julie is a super social person and thrives when she is part of a community, so it was no surprise that she shared her enthusiasm for 50 Firsts and organically, other women of a similar age started to join in.

TVO asked Julie to jot down some conversations and share the stories of the women who have taken up the 50 Firsts project, with a view to us shining a light their experience – the highs, lows, laughs, tears and everything else in between.

This month it is Mary Raper and her 50 Firsts journey.

Mary, how did you come to be involved in the ‘50 Firsts’ personal challenge?

Sure! My name is Mary, I’m 53 and happily married with two grown daughters, and I've lived my entire life on Sydney’s North Shore. My work revolves around organising amazing ski holidays in North America and Japan. One Saturday morning in April 2022, while on a bushwalk with my husband, we bumped into Julie walking her dog. We struck up a conversation, and Julie mentioned her ‘50 Firsts’ challenge. She was eagerly looking for a partner to attend a pole fitness class the next day. Without hesitation, I eagerly accepted the invitation, sparking a new adventure (and new friendship) for both of us.

What was your experience like participating in the pole fitness class?

It was a whirlwind! There were numerous obstacles that seemed to be preventing us from attending – even a big traffic jam on the day, but we made it happen. We arrived a bit late due to the traffic, which meant that there were only two poles left… at the front of the class…We felt completely out of our comfort

zone but embraced the challenge wholeheartedly, shedding any selfconscious thoughts. The class was tough - a blend of strength, agility, and grace, and we were exhilarated by the end.

How did participating in Julie's ‘50 Firsts’ challenge impact you personally?

It’s been quite transformative. From that first ‘First’, I gained a newfound appreciation for stepping outside my comfort zone. Julie's challenge inspired me to seek out new experiences that previously I might have overlooked. Although I’m very active, the Firsts helped me broaden how I stay fit and made it more enjoyable. The 50 Firsts strengthened our friendship and introduced me to more communities of like-minded individuals. There is always a part of the Firsts that’s for yourself but I’ve really enjoyed the giving back Firsts too, like our 100 Skips-a-Day, 1-Minute Planking in Pink challenges and Stadium Stomp fundraisers.

What has changed in your life since undertaking some of your own Firsts?

My eyes have opened, it’s inspired me

to start observing more opportunities that I might have said, ‘oh that looks nice or fun,’ but didn’t contemplate doing it myself. This has injected a sense of connection and purpose into my life. Not only have I found joy in embracing new experiences, I have also forged meaningful friendships and some amazing memories along the way. It’s taught me the importance of living fully and appreciating the beauty of life's adventures, no matter how big or small.

We are looking for more women to become part of a 50 FIRSTS COMMUNITY, whether that ends up being just a Facebook group, or perhaps a TVO cohort where we will feature your stories here. If this is something you want to investigate, either contact us here at: TVO: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au, or email JULIE: julie@thelifestylistcoach.com.au.

Julie and Mary Wonder Women at City To Surf

Julie and Mary at the pole dancing class

Figtree Park Re-Opens

The upgrade of Figtree Park has been completed and a grand re-opening of the revitalised space took place with a picnic in the park on Saturday 15 June.

The demolition of a dwelling at 48 Gladesville Road allowed Council to provide additional open space in the park, including a new entrance and plaza area from Gladesville Road providing better access from the Hunters Hill Village shops.

Other improvements included:

• construction of an accessible pathway;

• installation of a new drainage system;

• installation of lighting;

• planting of garden beds and new trees;

• installation of park furniture, including seating, bubblers

• construction of a new playground with climbing structures, a nest swing, spring rider, outdoor musical percussion, talking tubes and a rope ladder leading to an elevated platform;

The project was funded by the NSW Government’s Public Spaces Legacy Program.

Mayor of Hunter’s Hill Council Zac Miles said he was pleased to see Figtree Park unveiled, “We know the extraordinary benefits that come from quality open space like what is being delivered here in Figtree Park, providing fit for purpose contemporary amenities for our municipality.

“It contributes to our community’s health and wellbeing, and adds vibrancy and activity to our village precinct. Council is proud to deliver another wonderful project to the Hunters Hill community,” Cr Miles said. Council invited the community for a picnic in the park with free face painting, giant bubbles and live music by King Olav, plus more.

A new amenities block will be completed by the end of this year, thanks to State funding.

MPs Stephen Bali and Anthony Roberts, with his son, and Mayor of Hunters Hill Council Zac Miles

Branka Ivkovic, CEO of Sydney Community Services, and Mayor of Hunters Hill Zac Miles

Cremorne’s Hayden Orpheum protected on the State Heritage Register

The Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace is now listed on the NSW State Heritage Register, following North Sydney Council’s nomination and an ongoing community campaign.

North Sydney Council resolved to nominate the Orpheum for inclusion on the State Heritage Register in November 2022 and has supported the community action led by the Cremorne Conservation Group. In her direction to list the cinema on the Register, Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe recognised the theatre’s uniqueness as one of the last surviving examples of an art deco suburban theatre that is still used as a cinema today.

North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker said: “Council has been working, with the Cremorne Conservation Group and community-led action groups, to have the Orpheum listed on the State Heritage Register. Along with our planning team, we have supported community efforts to reach this outcome. We are thrilled that Minister Sharpe has recognised the special cultural and social significance of the theatre, as well as

the wonderful art deco building.”

While the Orpheum was identified as a local heritage item under the North Sydney Local Environment Plan 2013, the new listing provides recognition of its heritage significance for all of NSW.

Minister Sharpe cited the theatre’s importance in the cultural history of NSW; its rich art deco stylistic features; its association with renowned theatre architects, entrepreneurs and performers; its social value to the community; and its potential to yield further information about the history of 20th century cinema.

The Cremorne Conservation Group were overjoyed with the outcome. “Our campaign for this listing started back in 2022. A major highlight was our feature event at the Orpheum, under the auspices of the National Trust Heritage Festival, attracting an audience of around 500 patrons and VIP dignitaries from local and state governments, to raise awareness that the Orpheum did not have a state heritage listing, which was a surprise to all!” a spokesperson said.

HISTORY OF THE CINEMA

Originally opened in 1935, the Orpheum was an exciting cinema destination for suburban Sydney during the moviegoing heyday. Today it is a Military Road cultural landmark, community gathering

place, and a well-known example of art deco design.

The Orpheum was designed by noted theatre architect George N Kenworthy and constructed during the Golden Age of Hollywood, when cinema-going was the primary form of popular entertainment. It was a departure from most suburban cinemas of the time in both facilities and design. Lavishly decorated with art deco motifs and fitted out with modern materials and technology, it included a stage, to accommodate vaudeville as well as film, and a ballroom, a feature more aligned with city venues such as the State Theatre.

The cinema’s popularity declined after television was introduced in the 1950s, until it eventually closed in 1977. Shops and an arcade were built on the site, and the cinema itself fell into disrepair, until 1986 when Mike Walsh OBE AM bought the Orpheum for his Hayden Group of cinemas. In collaboration with theatre designer John Love, Walsh restored and remodelled the cinema with attention to the original art deco design.

Over the following decades, the Orpheum developed into a cinema complex, adding five more screens designed in keeping with the original decorative style. Today it is a popular cultural venue, hosting a variety of events including film festivals, live performances and film premieres, and a key landmark in North Sydney’s cultural landscape.

10 years of ending loneliness for seniors

During World Community Week from June 16 to June 22, Willoughby local Andrew Dowling, the founder of Stitch, will be celebrating its 10-year anniversary.

Stitch, a non-profit organisation, is now in many countries in the world and during World Community Week, it will be celebrating 10 years of helping people over 50 to make new friends and develop connections with like-minded people.

“When we launched Stich as an online platform in 2014 our grand vision was to help improve the lives of older adults in every country around the world and provide an answer to the social isolation and loneliness that everyone ultimately faces at some point in their lives,” Dowling said. “We recognised that there was a need for a vastly different kind of companionship site,” Dowling added.

“Stitch is not a dating site. I was aware at the time that almost every existing online platform had failed to provide the sort of real-world connections that older adults were seeking. There seemed to be a need to create a very different kind of site.”

Whether they are seeking friendship, romance or anything in between, Stitch offers a wide range of local activities and events designed to bring likeminded people together. It also offers online discussions with other members around the world, group travel events and the opportunity for members to create their own activities for others to join.

“It’s a very safe platform with a member verification process to keep out the scammers. Members can also volunteer their time to help grow the community,” says Dowling. “Our members know what it’s like to need companionship and ultimately everyone has a role to play in making life better for each other.”

When members create their own activities on Stitch they can put a limit on how many people they would like to attend, as keeping the numbers smaller provides a greater chance for those attending an activity to have a more personal connection with new people.

Some of the most popular activities have been cruises on the Harbour and local rivers, gettogethers for a coffee or lunch at local cafes, pubs and restaurants, visits to art galleries, theatre and cinema, coastal and bush walks, dining and dancing, music festivals and sporting events and much more.

Stitch members are also free to develop their own groups for making friendships with people who have similar interests: writing, photography, meditation and yoga even groups for people who enjoy singing or want a regular group to go walking with every week.

“Since Stitch became a reality there is no more need for anyone to feel stuck at home and feeling lonely,” Dowling said.

“All anyone has to do is join Stitch and scroll through the large array of fun activities that are all over Sydney and join something that appeals to them close to where they live. There are also virtual activities to join all over the world.”

“During World Community Week it’s our opportunity to celebrate the importance of communities and the fundamental role they play in human happiness and well-being. Along the way, we'll be celebrating the amazing 10year journey we've had creating what we think is one of the most wondrous communities in the world!”

Winter Warmer in the Cook Islands

As Winter has well and truly arrived down under, Debbi and Rob made the most of a warm 9-night getaway to the divine Cook Islands nights.

Only 5.5 hours from Sydney, they visited both islands of Aitutaki and Rarotonga staying at the Pacific Resort Aitutaki and Little Polynesian Resort in Rarotonga, both 5-star adults only properties. Aitutaki is a short 50-minute flight from Rarotonga. Whilst there, Debbi took the time to inspect several other resorts at both locations.

With a government that legislates that no building can be higher than the tallest coconut palm, Aitutaki is geared for travelling couples looking for that R&R whereas Rarotonga offers the R&R with a family friendly vibe. There is range of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes across the 15 major islands that make up the Cook Islands. In Debbi’s opinion Aitutaki is one of the world’s best kept secrets, very popular for weddings and vow renewals. A must of Debbi’s if you are visiting Aitutaki is a day trip to One Foot Island!

Renowned for its stunning crystal-clear waters, the Cook Islands combines relaxation and adventure – the fishing

and snorkelling is fantastic – you can do as much or as little as you like! The Cook Islands unit of currency is the New Zealand dollar, basically dollar for dollar with the AUD at the moment, making it an affordable destination.

To get around the islands, you can either hire a car or scooter on Rarotonga and Aitutaki and believe it or not there is even Ubers available – even if there is only 1 on the island of Aitutaki!

The best time of year to travel to the Cook Islands is May to October, similar to that of other Pacific Islands like Vanuatu and Fiji. As a destination it is a great option to combine with either Honolulu or New Zealand, particularly as Jetstar only fly directly from Sydney a couple of times per week.

If you would like more information about travelling to the Cook Islands, Debbi and her team would be happy to help.

Call and make an appointment, and she can meet to further discuss your holiday to this beautiful island destination with you at length.

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Vale Guy Warren

One of Lane Cove’s most treasured luminaries, Guy Warren OAM, passed away peacefully on June 14 after a brief spell in palliative care, aged 103 years.

An illustrious, prolific, Archibald-winning artist, Guy spent more than 60 years living in the same home in Lane Cove, where he and his late wife, the potter and art teacher Joy, raised their children, Joanna and Paul.

at the JS Watkins Art School. At 21, he enlisted in the army, serving time as a digger in Bougainville, New Guinea during World War II.

At the conclusion of the war, he studied at the National Art School in Sydney under the Commonwealth Rehabilitation Training Scheme before travelling to London where he studied part time at the Chelsea School of Art, the London School of Art and the Central School of Arts and Crafts.

Warren was the subject of much media interest; hardly surprising given that he staged 50 solo exhibitions and countless retrospectives.

TVO was honoured to run a cover story with Guy in the weeks leading up to his 100th birthday in 2021. The event was marked with a significant, far-reaching exhibition at Gallery Lane Cove.

Born in Goulburn in 1921, Warren was just 15 when he made the move to Sydney, becoming an evening student

Numerous scholarships in both the US and UK followed before he returned home with Joy and the two children to undertake lecturing stints at the Department of Industrial Design at UNSW, the University of Sydney and the Sydney College of Arts.

Renowned for his “inventive and curious approach to the landscape and human form,”

When TVO spoke to Guy, it was evident that his positivity was infectious. On the cusp of his 100th birthday, he told us, “By the time you get to 100, when you look back, you know the things that you’ve done, but you also see the things you haven’t.

“Learning another language or two would be good and doing more painting, selfishly, would be another.

“There’s always something to look forward to, one shouldn’t look back too much, one should look forward.”

LCHS At the Podium 7pm July 23 Lane Cove Library

DR MEG FOSTER

Not Just Ned: Recovering Forgotten Bushrangers from Australia's Colonial Past.

Bushrangers have become part of the Australian mythos —icons of the colonial battler. Such romanticised legends obliterate the historical reality that Australia's population at the time these individuals were marauding through the countryside did not quite see them as we do.

In this presentation, historian Meg Foster reveals the stories of bushrangers who didn’t fit the mould. These individuals’ remarkable lives have been obscured, misrepresented or erased from the national story for over a century, and this is no accident. There is far more to these bushrangers, and their histories, than immediately meets the eye.

Not all bushrangers were white men.

'Aboriginal, African American, Chinese and female bushrangers have never been a part of the national mythos. We do not remember them in our merchandise or memorials, or in our films or songs or ceremonies. And this absence is no accident.'

Join us on Tuesday July 23 to hear the stories of some extraordinary characters:

Black Douglas the 'terror of the goldfields in 1850s Victoria. He was said to have murdered a white woman at Avoca and robbed enterprising miners the length and breadth of the diggings.'

Sam Poo the 'Chinese man executed for murder and accused of bushranging in 1860s New South Wales. His alleged activities shaped critical debates about the 1860s bushranging crisis and the steps the authorities should take to restore colonial order.'

Mary Ann Bugg a Worimi Aboriginal woman who 'taunted, evaded and outsmarted the police, and manipulated colonial expectations to further her own ends.'

Jimmy Governor murdered 'white women, children and the elderly ... before these crimes he was known as a charismatic hard worker and family man.'

Dr Meg Foster is an award-winning historian of banditry, settler colonial and public history; a Chancellor's Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Technology, Sydney, and the former Mary Bateson Research Fellow at Newnham College, University of Cambridge. Her first book, Boundary Crossers: the Hidden History of Australia's Other Bushrangers, was published with NewSouth in 2022.

At the Podium 7pm July 23 at the Lane Cove Library. En joy a wine and cheese along with an entertaining lecture on colonial history.

JULY 2024

Children’s Voices for Reconciliation at The Canopy

It was a privilege as your Mayor to speak at the Children’s Voices for Reconciliation ceremony organised by Council. It was great that so many children, including local student Piper, reflected on what reconciliation meant for them.

Lane Cove Council has played its role in reconciliation by raising the Aboriginal Flag in Chambers in 2012, establishing our own Reconciliation Action Plan and signing a joint Cooperation Agreement with St. Ignatius’ College Riverview.

A special thanks to Karen Smith from the Aboriginal Heritage Office who acted as our Master of Ceremonies on the day.

Happy 1st Birthday St Leonards Library!

St Leonards Library celebrated its first birthday on Saturday 25 May with a display of all our new library has to offer!

Also announced on the day was the winners from the "In One Minute" Short film competition, with a film festival of the top five entries. You can view the winning entries at: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/Library

You are invited to experience our Makerspace technology in action at St Leonards Library now, including 3D printing, Laser cutting, Cricut makers, green screens, and more.

Anthology Book Launch

Last month it was my pleasure to officially launch the Lane Cove Literary Awards 2023 - An Anthology. This is a fantastic publication and currently available for purchase at the Library. In 2013 under then Mayor Clr Brooks-Horn, Clr David Karpin suggested further developing the literary reputation of Lane Cove by implementing a literary Award. A small working party of Councillors including Cr Karpin, the late Cr Hutchens, and Cr Brent worked with Library staff to help bring this project to life and it is great to see that more than 10 years on the project continues to be a success.

A fond farewell for Terry

The Lane Cove Historical Society gathered recently to celebrate the retirement of Carisbrook House’s dedicated caretaker, Terry Eakin. Terry has been a cherished figure serving as caretaker for 24 years which is close to half of the time that Carisbrook House has been open to the community.

Terry has kept Carisbrook House safe and cared for with his dedication, growing the opportunities for visitors and locals to experience a living piece of history.

Terry, we thank you for your dedication and wish you all the best in your retirement.

What’s on Lane Cove July 2024

Puppet Craft

Monday 8 July, 11:00am – 12.00pm, Greenwich Library

Join us in making puppet craft this school holidays. Use paper bags and recycled materials to decorate your hand, finger and stick puppets. Free event. No bookings required. Limited places.

Debating Workshop

Monday 8 July & Monday 15 July, 3:00pm to 4:30pm, Synergy Youth Centre

Join us at Synergy for an engaging Debating workshop designed for ages 10-16, offering a supportive environment for young participants to build confidence and enhance their communication skills.

For Ages 10-16. Cost $5.00 + booking fee. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Foam Craft

Tuesday 9 July, 11:00am – 12:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Come along and create some cool foam crafts.

Free event for ages 4-10. No bookings required. Limited places. Tickets available from the front desk 30 minutes before the session.

Movie: DC

League of Super Pets

Tuesday 9 July, 2:00pm – 4:00pm, Lane Cove Library

When Superman and the rest of the Justice League are kidnapped, Krypto the Super-Dog must convince a rag-tag shelter pack – Ace the hound, PB the potbellied pig, Merton the turtle and Chip the squirrel – to master their own newfound powers and help him rescue the superheroes.

Free event. No bookings required. Limited places. Tickets available from the front desk 30 minutes before the session. Rated PG.

Bush Kids: Bob the Builder

Wednesday 10 July, 9:45am –11:15am, Stringybark Reserve, Murray St, Lane Cove North Winter is a busy time for male brush turkeys as they build their nest mounds. Come along to get to know these birds and go on a BT spotting bush walk. We’ll also read a story about Bob’s brother and make our

own ‘Bob’ to take home. For Ages 2-12. Cost $10.85 + booking fee. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Sushi Making Workshop

Thursday 11 July, 1:00pm to 2:30pm, Synergy Youth Centre

Let's get rice to it and create some delicious sushi! For Ages 10-16. Cost $15.00 + booking fee. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Bush Kids: Winter Wombats

Thursday 11 July and Wednesday 17 July, 9:45am – 11:15am, Tambourine Bay Park, Tambourine Bay Rd, Riverview

How can you not love an animal that does cube shaped poos! Wombats are the biggest burrowing animals in the world and they’re cute. Join us for a winter wombat story, bush walk and nature craft, and get to know these adorable marsupials. For Ages 2-12. Cost $10.85 + booking fee. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Dash Bot Discovery

Thursday 11 July, 2:00pm – 3:00pm, St Leonards Library

Tuesday 16 July, 2:00pm – 3:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Take remote control of your Dash Bot and roll around the room!

Free event for ages 6-12. No bookings required. Limited places. Tickets available from the front desk 30 minutes before the session.

Space

Storytime with Julia Parkes

Tuesday 16 July, 11:00am – 12:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Join local author Julia Parkes as she reads and discusses her new picture book Why can’t we go to Mars for a holiday? Books will be available to purchase on the day.

Free event for ages 4-8. No bookings required.

Loom Designs for Teens

Wednesday 17 July, 2:00pm –3:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Unlock your crafty spirit and learn how to weave a colourful bracelet on a wooden loom. Limited places available.

Free event for ages 9-16. No bookings required. Limited places. Tickets available from the front desk 30 minutes before the session.

Movie: Shaun the Sheep: Farmageddon

Wednesday 17 July, 2:00pm –3:30pm, St Leonards Library

When an alien possessing strange powers crash-lands near Mossy Bottom Farm, Shaun the Sheep quickly makes a new friend.

Free event. No bookings required. Limited places. Tickets available from the front desk 30 minutes before the session. Rated G.

Rainbow Craft

Thursday 18 July, 2:00pm – 3:00pm, St Leonards Library

Create colourful rainbow themed craft using paper and sparkly materials. Make a rainbow wand, a cloudy wall hanging, and a dotty decoration.

Free event for ages 4-10. No bookings required. Limited places. Tickets available from the front desk 30 minutes before the session.

Bush Kids: Snooze

Thursday 18 July, 9:45am – 11:15am, Blackman Park, Lane Cove West

Feel like snoozing during the winter?

Some animals and even plants snooze in the colder months. We’ll be finding out who snoozes, going on a bush walk and making some nature craft. They’ll be no chance to snooze during this activity!

For Ages 2-12. Cost $10.85 + booking fee. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Bush Kids: Kookaburra Kapers

Friday 19 July, 9:45am – 11:15am, Penrose St Playground, Lane Cove West

Join us for a story, bush walk and nature craft to learn about “koo-kookaa-kaa-kaa” kookaburras!

These birds are an iconic sound of the Australian bush and fun to spot. For Ages 2-12. Cost $10.85 + booking fee. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

What’s on Lane Cove July 2024

In Conversation with Max Hitchins –Chasing Gold

Monday 1 July, 6:15pm, Lane Cove Library

Enjoy an evening with local Lane Cove author Max Hitchins, and his latest book Chasing Gold. Australians love sport and this book highlights Australia's representation in every Olympic Games since 1896.

Books will be available for purchase on the night.

Free event. Bookings essential. Book online: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Intro to copper foil soldering

Tuesday 9 and 16 July, 2:30pm – 4:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Join us for this two-session workshop in copper foil soldering to create a colourful glass sun catcher. These two-sessions will introduce you to the basics of copper foil soldering and also give you an opportunity to get some hands-on experience in foiling, assembly and soldering.

To complete your design, you need to attend both sessions.

For Adults. Cost $10.00 + booking fee for the two sessions. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Maker Night at Lane Cove Library

Thursday 11 July, 6:00pm – 7:30pm, St Leonards Library

Enjoy an evening of designing and making. If you are an experienced maker, bring your own idea to life using the 3D Printer, Laser Cutter, Soldering Iron or Cricut Maker

If you are a new maker, try a selfpaced project to make a cake topper using the Laser Cutter. This month new makers will receive safety training using the Laser Cutter before starting their project. Materials provided for projects completed on the night.

3D Printing and Laser Cutting service available for unfinished projects, normal fees apply.

For Ages 16+. Cost $5.00 + booking fee. Bookings essential: lanecove. nsw.gov.au/events

Ben’s Online Book Club: Tim Ayliffe

Tuesday 23 July, 7:30pm – 8:30pm, Online event

Connect with this online event presented by Overdrive (Libby). Join Ben Hobson in conversation with Tim Ayliffe, about Killer Traitor Spy His next thriller in the John Bailey series, set to be adapted for the screen.

Journalist John Bailey and CIA officer Ronnie Johnson join forces to outwit their most deadly adversary yet. From Canberra to Moscow to Beijing, Killer Traitor Spy uncovers the new lines of espionage in the twenty-first century.

Free event. Bookings essential. Book online: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

In Conversation with

Tania Gold

Wednesday 24 July, 6:15pm, Lane Cove Library

Lane Cove local author Tania Gold joins us to discuss her latest novel A Helping Hand, released April 2024. Tania is a writer of contemporary and paranormal romance fiction, and discusses common tropes in romance fiction, including ‘enemies to lovers’ and the ‘one night stand’, in her work.

National Tree Day

Sunday 28 July, 1:30pm – 4:00pm

Each July, Council hosts a National Tree Day event to support local wildlife. In 2024 you can again help plant hundreds of native shrubs and groundcovers at this nation-wide community tree planting day!

Free event. Find out more: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Moments in Music: The Savoy Operas

Wednesday 31 July, 10:00am –12:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Join local musician Graham Ball as he provides a tribute to W S Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. Their enormously popular works would eventually give rise to the modern musical.

Free event. Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Tania has published four adult novels since 2021, and her book Prophecy of a Vampire was a finalist in the 2023 American Fiction Awards. A Helping Hand is a steamy contemporary romance novel set in Sydney packed full of sex, angst, humour, drama, and as usual, love. Books will be available for purchase on the night.

Free event. Bookings essential. Book online: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Saturday Sounds

Saturday 13 July, 10:00am –12:00pm, The Plaza

Grab your morning coffee, bring your friends, and groove along to KatCha Duo.

When singing sensation/music teacher, Kat met prodigy drummer/ vocal student, Cha... They had an instant connection! They eventually fell in love and formed 'KatCha' going on to perform as a husband and wife duo all across the country. Free event. Find out more: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Nordic Moods & Baroque Echoes

Nordic Moods & Baroque Echoes continues The Marais Project’s decades’ long commitment to exploring new repertoire and dissolving artistic and geographical boundaries. Its viola da gamba player is Putney local Jenny Eriksson.

Recorded at Atlantis Studios, Stockholm, (ABBA’s favourite studio), the album explores the collaboration’s rare instrumentation: voice/violin; baroque and modern violin, viola da gamba, cimbalom, and lute/guitar. The range of available tone colours is truly unique. This is believed to be the first Australian recording featuring the viola da gamba, lute, and cimbalom – the concert cimbalom is similar to hammer dulcimer but with damping pedals like a pianoand the first to include an album booklet in both Swedish and English.

The track list features moving arrangements of two of Sweden’s most famous folk songs – one of which was taken up as the tune for the Swedish national anthem - an orchestral suite by Marin Marais, new works by Eriksson and Wendel, Tommie Andersson’s arrangement of a Pavane by Swedish jazz greats, e.s.t., as well as a violin sonata by the Baroque era ‘Father of Swedish Music’, Johan Helmich Roman.

From the start of their long distance ‘north-south’ relationship the musicians decided to focus on three areas: baroque music, traditional songs from both Australia and Sweden, and originals by group members. This approach drew on the diverse musical skills and backgrounds of group members. As well as leading some of the finest Swedish early music ensembles, violinist Catalina Langborn, studied and plays Swedish folk music, as does Swedish/Australian lutenist, Tommie Andersson. Violinist and singer, Susie Bishop, has a long folk music history alongside her training as an opera singer. Gamba player Jenny Eriksson has explored traditional music on the acoustic viola as well as with her electric viola da gamba band, Elysian Fields. Percussionist and cimbalom virtuoso, Olof Wendel, has a diverse background that spans from orchestral music to jazz, contemporary classical music, and opera. In fact, all five members of the collaboration are composers and/or arrangers – something that is still something of a rarity in the classical music world.

Nordic Moods & Baroque Echoes is an album that is lovingly crafted and engages listeners from the first note! It is out now on CD and all streaming services.

COVID-19 vaccinations are free for everyone. Influenza vaccinations are free for children under 5 years (if its’ their first time, they will receive two primary doses, four weeks apart), older adults 65+, all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and those with certain eligible chronic conditions including asthma and certain heart diseases. For everyone else, the cost of an influenza vaccination is relatively affordable, especially when compared to the potentially fatal alternative.

Shingles (herpes zoster)

Not to be confused with cold sores or genital herpes, shingles is a reactivation of a previous chickenpox virus infection. It shows as a painful bubbly-like rash over one side of the body, particularly the torso or back. It may occur on the face, and in those cases may be sight-threatening. It can also be complicated by a localised nerve pain long after the rash has subsided. Shingles usually is a condition that affects the older adult above the age 50 years. The NIP offers a highly effective free 2-dose Shingrix® vaccination (2-6 months between each dose) which remains effective for at least the next seven years. It is eligible to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander aged ≥50 years, and non-Indigenous adults aged ≥65 years. If you are above 70, and have received a previous government Zostavax® injection, you are eligible for the newer Shingrix® after five years.

Tetanus (and whooping cough)

Ever cut yourself with something metallic or been pricked by a rose thorn? Tetanus is a bacterial poison that affects the nervous system, causing painful muscle spasms especially in the head and neck, as well as locked jaw (not being able to open the mouth. It can be fatal. The bacteria often lives

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in soil, dust and manure, and is especially risky when a wound is not clean and deep, from an animal or human bite, or from a deep wound via a rusty instrument. In general, consider a booster every ten years, especially if above age 50 years and/or if regularly travel overseas. The tetanus booster can be combined with the whooping cough booster for additional coverage. Whooping cough infections can be deadly in babies and young children. It is a recommended second-trimester vaccination to expectant mothers in every new pregnancy, and also any other regular care-givers (eg fathers/other parents, grandparents)

Measles

News of measles outbreaks are rising, especially those who have travelled from Asian countries. It is a highly contagious viral infection which can lead to serious complications such as ear infections, pneumonia, encephalitis (brain inflammation) and even death. It is recommended for children 12 months old (free as part of the NIP vaccination schedule, and also for adolescents and adults born during or since 1966 who have not received 2 doses of measlescontaining vaccine, particularly healthcare workers, childhood educators and carers, people who work in longterm care or correctional facilities and travellers. It is one of a minority of live-attenuated vaccines, meaning it cannot be given safely to pregnant women.

Vaccinations are the most cost-effective, easiest and one of the most important things we can do to protect and our own health, and for those around us – in our own household families and the wider community. All the current evidence tells us that getting vaccinated is safer than not getting vaccinated. Please do consider getting vaccinated!

What’s the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia?

Changes in thinking and memory as we age can occur for a variety of reasons. These changes are not always cause for concern. But when they begin to disrupt daily life, it could indicate the first signs of dementia. Another term that can crop up when we’re talking about dementia is Alzheimer’s disease, or Alzheimer’s for short. So, what’s the difference?

Dementia is an umbrella term used to describe a range of syndromes that result in changes in memory, thinking and/or behaviour due to degeneration in the brain.

To meet the criteria for dementia these changes must be sufficiently pronounced to interfere with usual activities and are present in at least two different aspects of thinking or memory.

For example, someone might have trouble remembering to pay bills and become lost in previously familiar areas.

It’s less-well known that dementia can also occur in children. This is due to progressive brain damage associated with more than 100 rare genetic disorders. This can result in similar cognitive changes as we see in adults.

Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia, accounting for about 60-80% of cases. So, it’s not surprising many people use the terms dementia and Alzheimer’s interchangeably.

Changes in memory are the most common sign of Alzheimer’s and it’s what the public most often associates with it. For instance, someone with Alzheimer’s may have trouble recalling recent events or keeping track of what day or month it is.

We still don’t know exactly what causes Alzheimer’s. However, we do know it is associated with a build-up in the brain of two types of protein called amyloid-β and tau.

While we all have some amyloid-β, when too much builds up in the brain it clumps together, forming plaques in the spaces between cells. These plaques cause damage (inflammation) to surrounding brain cells and leads to disruption in tau. Tau forms part of the structure of brain cells but in Alzheimer’s tau proteins become “tangled”. This is toxic to the cells, causing them to die. A feedback loop is then thought to occur, triggering production of more amyloid-β and more abnormal tau, perpetuating damage to brain cells. Alzheimer’s can also occur with other forms of dementia,

such as vascular dementia. This combination is the most common example of a mixed dementia.

The second most common type of dementia is vascular dementia. This results from disrupted blood flow to the brain.

Because the changes in blood flow can occur throughout the brain, signs of vascular dementia can be more varied than the memory changes typically seen in Alzheimer’s.

For example, vascular dementia may present as general confusion, slowed thinking, or difficulty organising thoughts and actions.

Your risk of vascular dementia is greater if you have heart disease or high blood pressure.

Some people may not realise that dementia can also affect behaviour and/or language. We see this in different forms of frontotemporal dementia.

The behavioural variant of frontotemporal dementia is the second most common form (after Alzheimer’s disease) of younger onset dementia (dementia in people under 65).

People living with this may have difficulties in interpreting and appropriately responding to social situations. For example, they may make uncharacteristically rude or offensive comments or invade people’s personal space.

Semantic dementia is also a type of frontotemporal dementia and results in difficulty with understanding the meaning of words and naming everyday objects.

WORDS: Nikki-Anne Wilson (Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA), UNSW Sydney)

Bruce Willis dementia announcement.

Gage Skidmore / Getty Images

Dementia with Lewy bodies results from dysregulation of a different type of protein known as α-synuclein. We often see this in people with Parkinson’s disease.

So, people with this type of dementia may have altered movement, such as a stooped posture, shuffling walk, and changes in handwriting. Other symptoms include changes in alertness, visual hallucinations and significant disruption to sleep.

Do I have dementia and if so, which type?

If you or someone close to you is concerned, the first thing to do is to speak to your GP. They will likely ask you some questions about your medical history and what changes you have noticed.

Sometimes it might not be clear if you have dementia when you first speak to your doctor. They may suggest you watch for changes or they may refer you to a specialist for further tests.

There is no single test to clearly show if you have dementia, or the type of dementia. A diagnosis comes after multiple tests, including brain scans, tests of memory and thinking, and consideration of how these changes impact your daily life.

Not knowing what is happening can be a challenging time so it is important to speak to someone about how you are feeling or to reach out to support services.

Dementia is diverse. As well as the different forms of dementia, everyone experiences dementia in different ways. For example, the speed dementia progresses varies a lot from person to person. Some people will continue to live well with dementia for some time while others may decline more quickly.

There is still significant stigma surrounding dementia. By learning more about the various types of dementia and understanding differences in how dementia progresses we can all do our part to create a more dementia-friendly community.

The National Dementia Helpline (1800 100 500) provides information and support for people living with dementia and their carers.

This article was originally published on The Conversation

Pizza + Movie Nights @ Longueville UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville

TIME : 6.30pm. Pizza; 7.15pm Movie

2 July – Broken Hill (2009) – Drama about a gifted teenage composer who wishes to attend Sydney Conservatorium and needs to find a good band in the middle of nowhere... starring Luke Arnold, Alexa Vega and Timothy Hutton.

6 August – Kind Hearts and Coronets (1949) – An entertaining combination of British farce, satire and black comedy - the story of a suave and elegant serial murderer starring Dennis Price, Valerie Hobson, Joan Greenwood and Alec Guinness.

Bookings essential on 9428 4287 or 9427 4740.

Cost $12 – the best value pizza/movie combo! BYO drinks.

Time 4U – Every Wednesday @ 10am till Noon

@ Longueville Uniting Church Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville

Friendly and fun mornings with home-made morning tea, discussion, documentaries and board games in Longueville UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville. All are welcome to come and join us.

Cost $5 Enquiries: Chris on 9428 4287

Beginner Bridge Lessons

Six lessons starting on Tuesday June 4th to July 9th from 10-12pm.

Where – Henley Community Centre, Crown Street Henley

Cost - $160 for the 6 lessons ( includes light refreshments) and a Beginner Workbook.

To register contact the bridge club on huntershillbridgeclub@bigpond.com

Market Morning –

Saturday

3 August 2024, 8am - 1pm

@ Longueville Uniting Church Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville

Stalls include : Cakes, Jams & Pickles, Quality Corner, White Elephant, Books, Plants & Posies, Children’s Toys & Games, Lucky Dip, Raffles, Homemade Sausage Rolls, BBQ Kebabs and Devonshire Teas.

Everyone gets a bargain ! EVERYTHING MUST GO !

BYO Shopping bag – CASH ONLY Enquiries : 9427 4740

APRICOT DELIGHTS

SERVES Makes 9 balls

PREP TIME 5 minutes

VEGAN

5 INGREDIENTS OR LESS 20 MINUTES OR LESS LUNCHBOX FRIENDLY FREEZER FRIENDLY

These lunchbox-friendly snack balls are truly a delight – in just 5 minutes you can create a delicious and wholesome snack. They are bursting with healthy fats and omega-3s from the chia seeds and hemp seeds, and iron from the dried apricots. They’re also a great snack to keep in the fridge for when you want something indulgent but not too sweet.

INGREDIENTS

5 medjool dates, pitted

¾ cup desiccated coconut

½ cup dried sulphur-free apricots

1 tablespoon chia seeds

1 tablespoon hemp seeds

Cover the dates with boiling water in a bowl and soak for 1–2 minutes before draining.

Blend all the ingredients (reserving ¼ cup of desiccated coconut for decorating) in a food processor until a smooth dough forms.

Scoop out 1 tablespoon for each ball and roll with damp hands. This recipe should make approximately 9 balls.

Sprinkle the remaining desiccated coconut onto a plate and roll each ball in the coconut to finish.

SWAPSIES

Add choc chips before rolling for a sweet addition or drizzle with our Choc magic shell.

STORAGE

Store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

ART IN THE CITY

Colourful, tiled artworks inspired by Sydney icons now frame three fire exits in city centre laneways, following the installation of In Through the Out Door by artist Callum Morton.

The intricate tile patterns are the latest addition to the City of Sydney’s City Art collection, lighting up doorways in Market Row and Mullins Street.

The striking motifs are inspired by landmarks familiar to Sydneysiders, including the geometry of the Sydney Opera House’s exterior shells, the floor of the Queen Victoria Building, Sol LeWitt’s mural in the foyer of Australia Square and the beaming rays of the infamous Luna Park entrance.

Internationally renowned artist Callum Morton lives in Melbourne and is best known for his installations and sculptures inspired by architecture and the built environment.

“Each door is specifically designed using a range of patterns I collected as I moved through the city, collapsed and reassembled as a new design,” Morton said.

“In Through the Out Door reimagines fire exits as grander entrances and creates a dialogue between different patterns in the city recontextualised in these laneways.”

The artwork was selected following a competitive callout to local and international artists for ideas.

The new artwork is part of the City of Sydney’s transformation of the city centre including major public domain upgrades and the pedestrianisation of George Street. The public art component is curated by Barbara Flynn.

Callum Morton worked with Monash Art Projects and Gorilla Constructions to create this artwork.

Ministry of Time

By Kaliane Bradley

I was not expecting much - a near future time travelling Arctic Explorer? How wrong I was; I absolutely ate this one up with a spoon! I LOVED it!

I hadn’t ever heard of author Kaliane Bradley, she evidently has had success with short stories but she certainly wasn’t on my radar. She is a British Cambodian writer, and I think that heritage really shines through in the novel. The Ministry of Time is set in London, and it just feels so authentic (although the only travel I have done through Britain is armchair). Our unnamed main character likewise just feels true to life. She has a British father and Cambodian mother. It’s a book about a time travelling refugee from the doomed 1845 Franklin expedition and it gave me all the feels.

Commander Graham Gore will forever more be my favourite Arctic Explorer. Who knew I would ever have one! I usually don’t agree with real people existing in novels, but goodness I cried when I realised Graham was a real person; he just feels so complete! As you can imagine when he first arrives in our world he is hilarious; with his very slow typing, his horror at housework, at public displays of calves and warning labels on cigarettes…his awe of Spotify and the ability we have to listen to any song was so special. I love him. In the depths of our Sydney winter I also loved the Arctic scenes, the glare, the frostbite, the beauty and danger…I have travelled so broadly through these pages.

The Ministry of Time is part love story, part sci-fi, with lots adventure and there is definitely a thriller element, but no spoilers here! I just want to say it is a novel that provides a lot of social commentary. It doesn’t go into detail, it really just flags the issue and leaves it with the reader to think about, issues like climate change, refugees, borders, war, racism…

it is an ambitious novel that really left me with so much to think about once I had closed the last page.

Books to look forward to in July

Review by: Anna Loder. Anna is the founder of www.readabook.com.au and the podcast of the same name. She is a book fanatic and owns a second-hand bookshop and café in Cronulla. www.readabook.com.au

The Homestead in the Eucalypts LÉONOE KELSALL

The Book of Elsewhere KEANU REEVES AND CHINA MIEVILLE

A Novel Love Story AHLEY POSTON

Storm Child MICHAEL ROBOTHAM

Stories My Grandmother Didn’t Tell Me ANDRA PUTNIS

Bodkin (Netflix)

A group of podcasters venture into a quaint Irish town to investigate the enigmatic disappearance of three strangers. As they dig deeper, they uncover a far more complex and peculiar tale than they anticipated. The premise is compelling, reminiscent of Only Murders in the Building and classic binge-watching fodder. However, the opening episode was surprisingly uncompelling. By the third episode, though, you’ll be gripped. Intriguingly, it was produced by Barack and Michelle Obama under their $65 million deal with Netflix.

★★★★½

Why you should watch it:

A gripping mystery with unique twists and engaging storytelling.

Shōgun (Disney+)

In the backdrop of Japan’s 1600s, Shōgun unfolds a gripping tale centred on Lord Yoshii Toranaga’s struggle for survival against the united forces of the Council of Regents. Amidst this turmoil, the discovery of a stranded European ship near a humble fishing village sets the stage for intrigue and confrontation. Remarkable in its visual presentation and cultural authenticity, this adaptation surpasses its source material. The meticulous production design, breathtaking cinematography, and extravagant costumes converge to create a mesmerising spectacle

★★★★★

Why you should watch it:

An epic saga with immersive historical portrayal.

What I watched on TV…

Embark on a journey through television with Stephen Miller, our dedicated aficionado of the small screen. Explore his curated collection of captivating narratives and entertaining shows as he shares his top recommendations from the diverse world of TV.

This Town (SBS OnDemand)

This Town dives into the late 1970s music scene of Coventry and Birmingham, capturing the cultural fusion of black, white, and Asian youths. The show brilliantly portrays the era’s edginess, marked by inequality, racism, skinheads, and societal struggles. It masterfully intertwines these elements with a compelling story, fantastic music, and heartfelt poetry from Dante played by Levi Brown. His performance is inspiring, evoking pride in British heritage. This raw and vibrant depiction of life leaves viewers craving more. ★★★★½

Why you should watch it: It’s an authentic dive into 1970s music and culture.

In this delightfully comedic series, humour intertwines seamlessly with heartfelt moments, creating a captivating narrative. Michael Theo (one of the stars of the ABC reality show Love on the Spectrum) portrays the endearing 28-year-old autistic protagonist, Austin, with a charming subtlety that draws viewers in. The storyline weaves together Julian, (Ben Miller), a British children’s book author whose career is suddenly in free fall and Austin’s quest to connect with his biological father. With its dry, cheeky humour and underlying warmth, a second season seems highly likely.

Why you should watch it:

Charming characters, clever humour, irresistible charm.

Bridgerton Series 3 (Netflix)

Season 3 of this captivating Regency romance makes a triumphant return, unfolding in two exciting parts. The impeccable music and fashion choices, particularly Queen Charlotte’s distinctive hairstyles, are standout features. Long-awaited by fans eager for the scandals of the Ton season, Bridgerton’s latest instalment lives up to expectations. It immerses viewers in a whirlwind of passion, intrigue, and personal revelation. Alongside the well-deserved romance for Penelope, the show explores an expanded array of Ton tales, doubling the delight for its devoted audience.

★★★★

Why you should watch it: That, dear reader, lies within the realm of your exploration.

Elsbeth (Paramount+)

An absolutely wonderful show, based on a well written, intelligent character. She reminded me of a female Columbo except funnier and smarter. In this spinoff series from The Good Wife, the resourceful attorney Elsbeth Tascioni (Carrie Preston) teams up with the NYPD, using her distinctive perspective she shines in her role as a ‘detective’. The show provides a pleasant diversion, and focuses on the simple joys of crime-solving without major plot twists. In a television landscape often filled with darkness, Elsbeth stands out as a welcome ray of sunshine.

★★★★½

Why you should watch it:

A gem of a series, Elsbeth stands out as a sweet, happy little treat.

Austin (ABC iView)

100 Words

Crouching behind the sofa, Anna pulled up her knees and tucked her head snugly into her chest. The strong beats of her heart almost drowned out the sound of approaching footsteps down the hall. He was definitely getting close now. She thought she had found the best hiding place she could in such a short time. It wasn’t something she was used to doing, especially at her age with her creaky knees. Suddenly she felt a gentle tap on her left shoulder. ‘Found you, Nanny. I win!’ shrieked three-year-old Tommy with delight.

Jenny England, Lane Cove

Before reaching adolescence, he’d damaged property and attacked several residents in the neighbourhood; Vito the optometrist, Freddie the concreter and even one hundred-year-old Mrs Bacchiocchio, whilst she innocently planted tomatoes and basil.

His mother couldn’t control him, she had issues of her own, including biting her wrist when angry or frustrated.

The local Block Association raised funds to send him to a boarding school, specialising in behavioural problems.

Twelve weeks later, while accepting his diploma, successfully completing the program, his instructor remarked, “Congratulations Pepper, you’re officially appointed as the new therapy dog at the Shady Pines Nursing Home!”

Perihan Bozkurt, Lane Cove

Do or die?

We’re living in a world where we are constantly doing or chasing something. We find ourselves enmeshed in a global culture of perpetual growth and productivity –at any cost. Society seems to celebrate the idea of the workaholic as a coveted achievement.

I’d ring my parents to let them know about the outcome of my exam results.

Even when the result was a distinction, my mother would ask, “Yes, but is that highest grade you can get?”

It wasn’t.

SHAMINI, Aged 60.

Have you noticed how our continued dwelling on how we are ‘not-as-we-would-like-to-be,’ just makes us feel worse, taking us even further from our desired goals? In turn, serving to confirm our view that ‘we are not the kind of person we feel we need to be in order to be happy’.

It seems our goal-setting mind causes us to fixate on one track. So how might we become more responsive to the richness and complexity that each moment presents?

The activities of the mind are related to patterns of brain activity. Different mental activities, such as reading a book, painting a picture, or talking to a loved one, each involve different patterns of interaction between networks of nerve cells in the brain. The networks involved in one activity are often different from those involved in another activity. Core patterns reflect some basic “modes of mind”.

Mindfulness training is a way to learn how to become more aware of your mode of mind (“mental gear”) at any moment, and the skills to disengage from unhelpful modes of mind and to engage more helpful modes.

In practice, this task often comes down to recognising two main modes in which the mind operates – “doing” and “being.”

In being mode, the mind has “nothing to do, nowhere to go” and can focus fully on moment-by-moment experience, allowing us to be fully present and aware of whatever is here, right now.

We are human-beings after all.

The Practice of Mindfulness is just one of the things we ‘do’. Want to know more?

Come and join the conversation where all are welcome, and all means ALL.

Liam McKenna

Lane Cove Community Chaplain

P: 0404 596 592

E: lanecovechaplain@gmail.com www.lanecovecc.com

Supported by Lane Cove Uniting Church

36 Pine Street

BY BELLE BISCOTTI

It was just after ten o’clock when the black van turned into Pine Street. The morning was a fine one. The smell of freshly cut grass was sharp, crisp and lightly sweet. A whipper snipper was working casually nearby, humming steadily among the carolling kookaburras. It was a Sunday, which meant the neighbourhood was not due to rise for another hour or two.

There came a constant clatter as the black van staggered across the road. The front bumper was spooned-out with chips and dents, and the black paint on the boot was scratched in an ambiguous Y. On the dashboard sat an open packet of peppermint gum. There was a black phone with a cracked screen in the cup holder. The passenger seat was filthy, piled high with crushed soft drink cans and chocolate wrappers and empty cigarette packets. You couldn’t see through the rear window. On the side of the van, in stark white print, were the words: BONZA PARTY RENTALS AND ENTERTAINMENT, and beneath, a phone number.

Behind the wheel was a man named Eddie Campbell. He was wearing a plain shirt which hung askew against his front because all the buttons were done up in the wrong order. A pair of sunglasses sat high on his nose bridge, although it was not yet bright enough for them to take effect. Eddie glanced at the dashboard and consulted the time; he was running half an hour late.

The van arrived at Number 36. Eddie plugged the van into reverse, backed up into the driveway, and parked beside a white BMW—complete with a red booster seat in the back. Eddie removed the key from the ignition. He unwrapped a stick of gum and chewed it thoroughly, allowing the sharp, minty flavour to assert itself around the inside of his mouth. Then he popped on his black cap and stepped outside. He unlatched the back door and out sprang the jumping castle like a big yellow jack-in-the-box. Eddie heaved against the sluggish, unravelling weight of it as he wedged it out the

door. Usually, it was a two-man job, but Dave had quit, CJ had called in sick, and nobody else wanted to work on the weekend. Now Eddie shrugged the hair out of his eyes and hauled the jumping castle over his shoulder. The only things left in the back of the van were a crate of deflated balloons and a case of gas cylinders to blow them up. Eddie walked around the side of the house to the backyard. He saw his nephew waving in the second-storey window—two eyes, a splayed hand, and a blue pyjama top behind the shadowed slits of the Venetians—and smiled. He unrolled the jumping castle across the lawn. Looking around, he saw a barbecue and esky had been set up on the patio. The patio was framed in a colourful garland of streamers and bunting. There were a couple of tables carrying trays of fresh fruit—watermelon cubes, apple slices, bright purple grapes—all covered in cling wrap, and a jug of iced cordial beaded with condensation. Under the dishwater cast of Eddie’s sunglasses, the scene had lost its vibrance and the grass had adopted the appearance of a frayed rug.

Eddie untangled the air pump and fastened it to the inlet on the jumping castle. He uncoiled the cable and plugged it in. The fan switched on with a hiss then a steady whir, swelling up the yellow vinyl like raised dough. Next came the stakes. Eddie groped his front and back pockets, checked behind him to see if he’d dropped them on the way, and came to the conclusion he’d left the bag in the van.

Next door, two women were hanging up their washing with red pegs. The fabric ballooned and billowed in the breeze. The women, still in their pyjamas, looked up at Eddie and said good morning. Eddie said hello. He returned to the van. He had left the back door open and the crate of balloons had fallen out. Grimacing, he set the crate back on its haunches and wiped his forehead with his sleeve. He had just started on the balloons when the front door of the house swung open. A man emerged in a dress shirt and a pair of navy chinos. His hair was rich with product and had been expertly combed back into a shiny swoop. It was Eddie’s older brother, Max.

“Thought I heard someone out here,” he called.

“Yeah, yeah, just me.”

Max came over and ruffled Eddie’s hair.

“Get everything?”

“Yes, considering the short notice. My supplier gave me one hell of a lecture—thanks for that, by the way.”

“Something came up with the other guy, like I said. I’m sorry.” Max crouched and scooped up a batch of balloons. Once they were in the crate, he wiped his hands on the back of his chinos. “I’m glad you could make it,” he said. “Billy was so excited when I told him his favourite uncle was coming.”

Eddie waved dismissively, but he was smiling. He really did love the kid. Billy in his preternaturally neat button-up shirt. Billy and his collection of elastic

bow ties, which announced to the world that he was a gentleman. Billy, who had a spray of freckles on his cheeks and chin, just like Eddie. Big Bill, Little Bill.

Eddie picked up another handful of balloons and cursed when one flicked him on the nose. Max gave a playful grin, then frowned. He recognised the tart, insistent smell of mint and cologne, and was now well aware of the heightening tremor in Eddie’s hands as he fussed over the balloons— first sorting them into groups of red and yellow, then blue, then balling them together with an unintelligible mutter.

“Eds,” Max said, “you get enough sleep last night?”

“Hm? Sure.”

Max squinted. He reached for Eddie’s

sunnies. “You’re wearing them again. Are you—”

Eddie swatted away Max’s hand, knocking off his cap in the process. He stopped chewing his gum. “No, Max. It’s a workday, Max. I’m working.”

“Okay, okay. Whatever you say.” Max raised his arms in resignation. He was about to silently turn away and head inside, but changed his mind. Instead, he squeezed Eddie’s shoulder and said, “Hey man, thanks for doing this. It means a lot, you know?”

Returning the last few survivors to the crate, Eddie got to his feet. At last, he put on his black cap and slapped his brother on the arm. “Wouldn’t miss the little man’s party for the world.”

Max told him he would be back in a minute. With a swift salute, he went inside.

Eddie stowed the crate in the crook of his arm, popped the bag of stakes on top, then groped distractedly in the back of the van for the gas cylinders.

Had he now checked the label on the case, seen the mix-up on the little printed tag—the symbols reading CO instead of He—Eddie wouldn’t have let the children inhale from the balloons.

From the side of the house, Billy skipped into view, waving with a halftoothless smile.

Saturday July 13 is the Opening Day for Ryde Eisteddfod 2024 with special visitors Federal Member for Bennelong, Jerome Laxale and the Mayor of Ryde, Clr Trenton Brown.

As has been the tradition for many years the Mayor is the official patron of the Eisteddfod as well as heading Ryde Council, who are the chief sponsors, providing great venues for solo performances at North Ryde Community Centre in Cox’s Road and the West Community Centre in Anthony Road West Ryde. Recently there have been considerable upgrades to the Cox’s Road venue and the vocal sessions are looking forward to putting the new features into action. The Operatic Aria and Lieder Finals will be held there on Sunday afternoon July 28, and the feature event of the amplified vocal season the Performance Factor will be held on Sunday afternoon August 4

Workshop Day for Volunteers

Many of our volunteers have been with us for a considerable time and others have joined in recently. Both groups are invited to view this opening day at Cox’s Road as a a reviver/reminder for long-time

volunteers as well as an introductory session for new volunteer. Federal Grants for the Eisteddfod have enabled us to keep up to date with what new technology has to offer in running such an extensive event. Both Federal and Council grants have enabled us to keep up to date while still running a very friendly eisteddfod experience for both experienced and novice performers. July 13 is both the starting day for the Eisteddfod and an information day for new and returning volunteers as they become acquainted with Eisteddfod 2024.

Calendar of Events

The Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club is again home for this year’s dance component of the eisteddfod –packing the auditorium on the weekends of July 20/21 and July 27/28. If coming on the day of the school troupes (28 July)please purchase tickets online beforehand. All other events you can buy online and by card at the door.

Cinemas of Ryde

RYDE DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

– EDITED BY CHRISTINE SANDERSON

Moving pictures came to Sydney as early as 1896, with the new Ryde Town Hall providing an early venue. The first purpose-built cinema, the Ryde Picture Palace, was built in the district in 1910. While many cinemas were built in the district over the next fifty years, they did not remain as cinemas and were gradually demolished or used for other purposes over time.

Ryde Picture Palace

The Ryde Picture Palace was built on the corner of Blaxland Road (then Parkes Street) and Tucker Street (then School Lane). It was built by Charles Starr and the Ryde Palace Picture Company Ltd of which he was the Company Secretary. He had some experience with cinemas as he also owned a cinema in Haberfield and one in Taree.

Prior to building the cinema Mr Starr had acquired a lease of a boot shop and took over its running. Significantly, between the boot shop and School Lane were undeveloped blocks of land which were acquired for the building a cinema by 1910.

It was an open-air venue with a Wunderlich pressed metal, castle-like façade, and patrons sat on uncomfortable wooden forms. The interval treats were provided by Miss Rita Curtis, a local confectioner. Silent movies were played with the Mr Pope playing the piano, Mr Wilson the cornet, often accompanied by a brass band. Shows took place on Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.

It was not a successful venture and was closed by 1915. By 1920 the site of the cinema became the Ryde Boot Factory presumably run by Mr Starr who owned the adjacent Boot Shop.

The Rialto Theatre

Between 1931 and 1960 the Rialto Theatre was a conspicuous building on the east side of Devlin Street and was a popular venue for the local residents to meet friends and watch films. The theatre, constructed for Gus Bowe and his brother, James, was of Spanish Mediterranean design. The architects were Messrs. McCredie and Evans and it was built by Burt, Boulton and Haywood Ltd. on land owned by H. Thompson.

The external appearance of the building is interesting because of the adoption of an unusual art brickwork, with raked joints incorporating into a harmonious whole almost every colour of brick ranging from whites, cherryreds, greens, orange, and other intermediate shades. The roof is of coloured tiles, green and blue shades predominating.

In every way this was a spectacular building with wide gateways leading to a pleasant courtyard with gardens and a fountain. The building was ornate with many wide archways and tall decorated pillars. Seating capacity was 1480. Although there was no gallery, seats were tiered for good viewing.

Walls were decorated with murals and the high ceiling featured friezes. Adjoining the Rialto, on the southern side, was the well-patronised Bluebird Refreshment Rooms.

Renowned by locals and others coming from far and wide as being acoustically perfect, it was a thrilling and cheap venue for local children on a Saturday afternoon who could view every possible film accompanied by cliff-hanging serials which encouraged them to return every week.

After almost thirty years, the theatre was demolished in 1960 to make way for Peter Benjamin’s Regional Centre at Top Ryde.

Ryde District Historical Society is based at historic Willandra House (770 Victoria Rd, Ryde). The Society collects, researches and promotes the historical heritage of the 13 suburbs that make up the Ryde district. The Society also assists with research into family history. Further information can be found at www.rydehistory.org.au.

CONCERT

ACCENT STRINGS: BACH TO BEATLES

LURLINE QUARTET – STRINGS TO THE HEART.

Quartet: Jane Stanley – Violin. Leo Kram – Violin. Neil Thompson – Viola. Emily Palethorpe – Cello.

These core players of the Lurline Chamber Orchestra will bring you everything beautiful and exciting about live strings.

The theatre opened in December 1931 and the following article appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald at the time:

Improving Ryde

NEW PICTURE THEATRE

Ryde is one of the few municipalities in the metropolitan area where there has been a fair amount of building and construction work during the present year.

Music to enjoy includes the classic Divertimento by Mozart, Schubert’s Quartettsatz, Rachmaninov’s Vocalise also music from the Shows including Fiddler on the Roof, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to name but a few. Tuesday 13th August 2024 at 7.30pm Venue: LCM St. Andrew’s Anglican Church. 19 Rosenthal Avenue Lane Cove behind the Post Office and opposite the Canopy Car Park.

Accent Strings is delighted to present a program beginning with some wonderful music from the Baroque and Classical periods including works of Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart, followed by a selection of contemporary pieces which will get your feet tapping. These will include popular numbers by the Beatles, Leonard Cohen, Cyndi Lauper, Elton John and other millennial favourites.

Tuesday 9th May 2023 at 7.30pm.

Probably the most important building erected in that municipality during the year was the new picture theatre which was officially opened last week. The structure cost about 20,000 pounds. It is situated on the corner of the Great North Road and Pope Street where the Main Roads Board is opening a new wide through traffic thoroughfare to which the theatre will have its main entrance…

Tickets through Try Booking may be purchased from 9am on Tuesday 23rd July 2024 via our website www. lanecovemusic.org.au

LCM Anglican Church (St. Andrew’s), 19 Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove, behind the Post Office. Free parking opposite at The Canopy

Limited admission at the door on the night, online bookings preferred. Tickets at the door (cash only) $30 visitor, $10 students aged 18 and under. Enquiries welcome at 9428 4287.

Bookings with TryBooking, accessed via our website from: Tuesday 18th April 2023: www.lanecovemusic.org.au

Future 2024 Concerts, both Tuesdays at 7.30pm: 8th October, 26th November.

Limited admission (cash only) at the door on the night, online bookings preferred.

Adults $30, Students $10 - enquiries are welcome at 9428 4287.

Future 2023 Concerts, all Tuesdays at 7.30pm:

The 2022 Federal Election was a turning point in Australian politics, and our community North Sydney was one of the first to stand up that year for independent representation.

After two years and hundreds of thousands of conversations with members of our community, I am obviously disappointed by the Australian Electoral Commission’s (AEC) proposal to abolish the seat of North Sydney at the end of this parliamentary term.

But this has never been about me.

My focus remains on our community, my team and the thousands of volunteers who helped turn North Sydney independent again. If you live in North Sydney, please know that my team and I will continue to deliver the same level of representation that you've had over the past two years, for the rest of this parliamentary term.

I will continue to fight for our community and the issues that matter most to us. This includes continuing to hold

both major parties to account for their lack of ambition and action on climate change. North Sydney is also desperate for measures to tackle housing affordability and the cost of living, address intergenerational inequality, protect the environment for future generations, and promote a smart, future-focused economy.

And I will continue to look for ways to support our diverse population through events like our recent social cohesion workshop with Together for Humanity and religious, cultural, school and community service leaders in our area; our upcoming Ageing Well event on managing death, dying and grief; and a very exciting climate event later this month for the young people in our community. Finally, it is worth noting that the newly released electoral boundary redistribution is a draft proposal. There is now a further process to go through, with the AEC accepting feedback from the public until 12 July. I will be making a submission to the AEC and encourage you to have your say via https://www.aec.gov.au/redistributions/2023/nsw/

A MESSAGE FROM BRANKA IVKOVIC, CEO

Last month, Sydney Community Services (SCS) successfully partnered with three aged care service providers to host an evening information event. This event, in collaboration with Pathway Residences, Amara by Pathways, and Later Life Advice, was a resounding success, with more than 60 retirees showing keen interest in planning their future and navigating their care.

Whether it be in a retirement village, their own home, or preparing for the time when they may need full-time care in a residential home, our community members are actively seeking information and support.

We understand that navigating aged care in Australia can be complex, and it requires careful planning, research, and consideration of various factors. By understanding the services available, the assessment and eligibility process, and the financial aspects, people can make informed decisions that ensure they and their loved ones receive the care and support they need. The journey into aged care is about enhancing the quality of life for our seniors, ensuring they are cared for with dignity and respect. We are excited to announce that we are bringing back our monthly community information point in partnership with Lane Cove Library. This collaboration allows us to bring our experienced staff closer to you, answering any questions you may have about navigating support systems, our services, or opportunities to stay active and engaged in the community. You can find out more details about our activities and events on our 'What's On', pages 42 - 43.

Here at SCS, we understand the importance of caring for our seniors, who have spent their lives contributing to the fabric of our community. Our seniors are embracing new opportunities to reconnect, stay active and tap into new passions. Our Hubs in Lane Cove, Hunters Hill and Lane Cove North offer activities that nurture physical wellness and social connections. Both significantly enhance quality of life, emotional well-being, and longevity. We have grown from one gentle exercise class across all our Hubs to nine! Staying active matters!

SCS specialises in entry-level aged care services provided through the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), designed to help seniors live independently in their homes for as long as possible. Our programs are growing, and we have attracted more funding for our Home Maintenance and Modification services. Home Maintenance and Modification services encompass a

range of tasks and adjustments aimed at maintaining the home environment and making it more accessible and safer. Home maintenance services involve routine upkeep tasks such as fixing leaking taps or broken pipes, replacing light bulbs and switches or garden maintenance. They also include making structural changes to the home to improve accessibility, safety, and convenience for seniors. These modifications are especially important for individuals with mobility issues or disabilities. Common home modifications include installing grab bars and handrails near toilets, showers, and bathtubs and installing raised toilet seats and non-slip flooring or building ramps to replace steps at entrances.

We have been fortunate to receive a Community Builder Partnership grant and a donation from the Hunters Hill Food and Wine Festival, which enabled us to upgrade the ageing freezers for our Home Delivered Meals Service. The Home Delivered Meals services, often called "Meals on Wheels," provide nutritious meals directly to the homes of people who may have difficulty preparing food for themselves. Our new menu has been designed in conjunction with our seniors; we listened to their feedback and increased the availablity and variety of fresh meals. The home-delivered meals are supported by a dedicated group of volunteers, who deliver the nutritious meals and are friendly visitors who will stop, check-in and ensure our clients are safe and well.

We are thankful for our funders, supporters and volunteers; we continue to make a difference together!

Volunteer today and help make a difference

Your support allows us to continue to improve the quality of life of people in the local community so they can remain living independently in their own homes for as long as they wish.

WE ARE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

 Meals on Wheels

We are hoping to find a volunteer who can deliver meals to local Lane Cove residents. We deliver fresh meals to the door of our consumers and provide a courtesy wellbeing check and a smile, which helps them remain living independently, for longer, at home. If you are available on a Thursday morning in Lane Cove between 10am – 11.30am, please get in touch.

 Playgroup Assistant

This volunteer position is for either a Tuesday or Thursday morning from 9.30am – 11.30 am at the Meeting House Hub, Lane Cove North. Duties would include:

• Supporting playgroup staff set up playgroup activities and equipment.

• Welcoming families arriving for playgroup and taking/monitoring payments.

• Assisting playgroup staff with activities, craft and group time as required.

• Assisting playgroup staff to pack away activities and equipment at the end of the session.

 Linen Service

Can you offer your time to help change the bed and bathroom linen of consumers in their home and replace with commercially laundered linen. The linen is then collected and returned to SCS and the Lane Cove hub. We require a volunteer every second and fourth Monday of each month, 8:30am to 10.30am-11am, approximately (dates may change depending on public holidays).

Find out more – we would love to hear from you. Contact our People and Culture Coordinator, Yvonne Hughes, for more information.

P: 9427 6425 E: yhughes@sydneycs.org www.sydneycs.org

Working with you to achieve health, wellbeing and independence

OUR SERVICES

• Domestic Assistance

• Home Nursing

- Continence Advisory

• Home Delivered Meals

• Podiatry

• Flexible Respite

• Gardening

• Home Maintenance and Modifications

• Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Social Groups

• Accompanied Activities

- Shopping Service

• Organised Day Trips across Sydney

• Wellness Activities at the Lane Cove, Hunters Hill-Ryde and Meeting House Hubs

• Creative Drama and Arts for people with disabilities

• Services for people with disabilities

- Registered NDIS provider

• Playgroups at Meeting House

Sydney Community Services supports you wherever you are on life’s journey. Our aim is to enhance community participation, boost health and wellbeing, develop life skills and enable independence for people from all walks of life. We provide support in a trustworthy, safe, enjoyable, and inclusive way. Headquartered in Lane Cove, our services are enjoyed by people across Sydney’s north shore and beyond. www.sydneycs.org I 9427 6425

WHAT’S ON JULY 2024

Book Club

1.30pm - 2.30pm

Monday 15 July

Cost: $5 including book/afternoon tea.

Movement Matters

Tuesday, 12pm - 1pm and 1.15pm - 2.15pm.

Wednesdays, 11.15am - 12.15pm. Fridays, 9.30am - 10.30am and 10.45am - 11.45am

Monday 29 July, NEW Movement Matters: Strength & Balance class Term runs for 5 weeks. Contact us for further details and registration.

Seniors Hub

Daytime, inclusive and supportive space for general seniors’ groups, dementia friendly groups, ladies and men’s groups.

All-day tailored seniors program from Monday to Friday. Includes excursions, picnics, and wellness activities. Door-to-door transport and nutritious meals catering for all dietary requirements.

Cost: $35 Contact us for a monthly program.

E: support@sydneycs.org

Seniors Shopping Bus

Tuesdays and Thursdays

Return trip from your home to Lane Cove shops. We can also assist to carry your shopping into your home. Cost: $15

P: 9003 1399

E: support@sydneycs.org

HOURS OF OPERATION: 8.30am - 4.00pm Mon - Fri www.sydneycs.org

Mah Jong Yoga

Come and join us for a fun morning of Mah Jong.

 Tuesdays, 9.30am - 11.30am BEGINNERS WELCOME

 Wednesdays, 1.00 - 3.45pm

Cost: $5 including afternoon tea.

New players please contact us: E: support@sydneycs.org

Join our experienced yoga and wellbeing specialist.

Wednesdays, 9.30am - 10.30am

Cost: Term enrolment at $12 per session, or $15 per casual visit

Scrabble

Thursdays, 10am - 12noon

Cost: $5 incl. morning tea.

Seniors

Social Support

Afghan, Chinese, Iranian, Italian, and Spanish seniors groups.

Each group is supported by bilingual staff and volunteers to meet and share their cultural heritage and interests. Social inclusion activities such as excursions, cultural celebrations, English language conversation classes, wellness activities and information sessions are offered to all CALD communities in the Greater Sydney area. Contact us for a monthly program.

E: tliu@sydneycs.org

CHESS CLUB

EVERY MONDAY

New Chess group - Mondays at 1pm. The group is friendly and sociable, and all abilities are welcome.

COST: $5pp, includes afternoon tea.

VENUE: The Meeting House, 23a Stokes Street, Lane Cove North TIME: 1pm - 2.30pm

PLEASE CONTACT: P: 9427 6425 E: support@sydneycs.org

The Velveteens 2nd Monday each month 10am – 4pm.

Join us for morning tea before heading off to a different venue each month.

If you are over 65, registered with My Aged Care, have a referral code for Social Support Group and are totally independent then contact us for more information.

Cost: $20 (does not include lunch/beverages).

E: support@sydneycs.org

Movie & Morning Tea

'Wicked Little Letters' Monday 1 July Time: 10am - 1pm

Cost: $30

P: 9003 1399

E: support@sydneycs.org

Movie & Morning Tea

Monday 31 July

Come along, test your general knowledge, have fun and meet new people. Time: 10.15am - 12pm

Cost: $30

ENQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS FOR ACTIVITIES:

Social Bridge

Thursdays, 12.30pm - 3.30pm

Cost: $5 incl. afternoon tea.

Social Tennis Group

Join us every Thursday at Lane Cove Tennis Club, Central Park, Kenneth St, Longueville. Cost $5. Every Thursday 9-11am All players must register prior to playing – please call Julie 9427 6425. We look forward to seeing you on the court!

Table Tennis

Fridays, 12.00 - 4.00pm Cost: $5

BOOMers Mens Group

BOOMers for senior independently mobile men who enjoy an opportunity to socialise and visit interesting places in the company of other men.

Contact us for the full program. When: Fridays Departs: 10.00am from Lane Cove Hub, Pottery Lane Returns: 2.00pm Cost: $20 including morning tea and lunch E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Social Bus Outings

Join us every Tuesday when we venture to new destinations and parts of Sydney, as well as meet other local seniors.

Women's Wellness Class - Tuesdays

These trips are weekly and either half or full-day outings. Contact us for the monthly program.

Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm

Cost: $25 (Bus only)

E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Seniors Hub every Friday

Centre Based Service for over 65 year olds.

Providing a safe, warm and engaging environment for people who would like to spend more time with other seniors. The hub offers a tailored program providing a break for family carers.

Contact us for more details.

P: 9427 6425

E: support@sydneycs.org

A weekly program based on a holistic view of health, taking into consideration physical and social needs. The classes incorporate strength and balance exercises. Contact us for more information about cost and term times.

E: support@sydneycs.org

$10

Enjoy a delicious 3 course meal with all the trimmings.

Monday 22nd July, 12.30pm - 2.30pm Venue: Park View Room, 1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove. Limited transport available. Bookings Essential. Cost: $40 FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CONTACT: P: 9427 6425 E: support@sydneycs.org NEW EVENTS COMING TO THE

Moocooboola Computer Club for Seniors

• Monday, Tuesday and Thursday

• Community Centre, 44 Gladesville Road, Hunters Hill.

Working at your own pace, learn how to explore your needs and interests such as archiving photos or planning holidays with guidance from our volunteer trainers, have fun with your IT devices, (no Apple Macs), and meet new people.

Arts, Craft, Music and Story Playgroups 0 - 5 years 9.30am to 11.30am Supported by Early Ed Fortnightly

Playgroups TERM COSTS:

WHEN: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9.30am 11.30am WHERE: At the Meeting House Hub, 23a Stokes St, Lane Cove North Thursdays

$10 per casual visit

$60 per term/one session per week

Arts, Craft, Music and Story Playgroups

0 - 5 years 9.30am to 11.30am

$100 per term for multiple sessions P: 9003 1399 E: support@sydneycs.org

9879 4588 (during club sessions) moocoo@netspace.net.au

Disability Supports

Group community access activities from Mon – Fri in centres and community.

Activities: drama ensemble, creative movement, full and half-day excursions, Sailablity, art groups and virtual meetups.

Cost: based on the NDIS pricing schedule. E: gstarkey@sydneycs.org or support@sydneycs.org

ANTHONY ROBERTS MP

P: 9817 4757

E: lanecove@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Lane Cove’s Buses

A recent Sydney Morning Herald article revealed that Transport for NSW is considering changes to buses currently running through Lane Cove once the new metro station in Crows Nest opens.

It sounds like the new Metro station planned for Crows Nest somehow gives reason for Transport for NSW to reduce the number of bus routes going to the city because there are new alternative public transport options available.

The potential change driving this issue is the very early termination of the 252 and the 261 at North Sydney, which would usually go all the way to King St Wharf. This will be a clear inconvenience to Lane Cove residents and other passengers who rely on the direct route to the city. In Lane Cove and for suburbs further West the 252 is such a great asset to have. If its not broken why try to fix it.

Moving away from the city the 288, which is a bus in great demand, especially at the Lane Cove interchange, will now terminate at Macquarie University instead of Epping. A serious inconvenience for those residents as they will now need an extra transfer to move further west.

What is surprising is that to compensate for these changes Transport for NSW proposes to increase the services of the 292 from every half hour to every 20 minutes. Currently Busways are experiencing a major shortage of bus drivers.

How can the Transport Minister and the Department of Transport endorse all these changes and believe that extra 292 services will compensate despite the driver shortage is beyond explanation?

Residents of Lane Cove are now grappling with the impending changes, however the promise of ‘improved’ services is hard to believe considering the struggles of consistent bus services in Lane Cove already.

Justifying a new Metro station in Crows Nest by limiting and redirecting the services of other public transport options to the metro is not the way to service a community, but to on paper increase the metro’s customers. Lane Cove residents usually only need to catch one bus to get to the city. With these changes in place, potentially two buses and a metro or train to get to work.

The fact these changes are being considered is absurd, given the Transport Minister has still not addressed the driver shortages plaguing these very routes.

P: 9952 8222

E: mayor@ryde.nsw.gov.au

Keep the Fire Burning

NAIDOC Week celebrations highlight another busy month in the City of Ryde, with a number of fun and informative events for people of all ages to enjoy.

Celebrating and recognising the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, national NAIDOC Week takes place between 7-14 July.

This year’s theme is: ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’.

Ryde’s NAIDOC Week begins early on 5 July with a walk to Brown’s Waterhole in Marsfield, where participants will learn about local plants and wildlife and be on the lookout for bush tucker and medicinal plants.

Throughout the week there are boat making workshops for the kids, an Aboriginal Cultural Experience Workshop, storytelling sessions, and a performance by Walangari Diramu Aboriginal Dance and Didgeridoo Company, making for a compelling mix of activities.

For more information, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/ NAIDOCWeek

July is also winter school holiday time and as usual, City of Ryde has plenty of activities to keep the kids engaged and entertained.

Our Library School Holiday Program is themed around ‘Big Adventures Little Heroes’ and there are some fantastic workshops involving robotics and JEKCA building blocks to keep curious and creative minds occupied, as well as the always popular Comic-Con.

Our libraries are also hosting workshops based on City of Ryde’s popular Sustainable Waste 2 Art Prize (SWAP), where participants will learn how to make art from every day and recycled materials.

The colder weather won’t stop the kids from wanting some outdoor fun and City of Ryde is the second largest provider of free school holiday programs in NSW, with capacity for over 2000 children per year to be taking part in a range of physical activities across the city’s many parks, open spaces, and recreational facilities.

For details on all our July school holiday programs, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/SchoolHolidays

Finally, Ben’s Book Club – a digital book club hosted by author Ben Hobson – is being held via Zoom on Tuesday 23 July from 7.30-8.30pm with a discussion of Tim Ayliffe’s new thriller Killer Traitor Spy.

For details, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/BensBookClub

CLR TRENTON BROWN CITY OF RYDE MAYOR

TIM JAMES MP

P: 9439 4199

E: willoughby@parliament.nsw.gov.au

One of my key priorities is enhancing our transport connectivity with greater and more reliable public transport options, an efficient and resilient road network and increased active transport links.

The opening of the new Sydney Metro line is imminent and will bring world-class modern, reliable, turn up and go services locally to Chatswood and Crows Nest. Travel time to the city from Chatswood will be almost cut in half, and a trip from Crows Nest to Martin Place will take a mere 7 minutes. It’s a game changing public transport investment in our area by the former NSW Liberal Government that will transform how we move around Sydney.

Our local bus services have not been up to scratch recently and I share our community’s deep frustration that solutions to fix the buses have been delayed by a 12-month long bus industry review that is still yet to report. With my advocacy real progress was being made to implement a four-point plan to seek to resolve the shortage. I continue to urge the implementation of that plan. Progress has not been good enough and I will strongly advocate for tangible and decisive action from the current government. You deserve a quality bus service that you can rely on and that’s what I’m fighting to restore.

There will be an update to local bus routes, timetables and services in the coming weeks to coincide with the opening of the Sydney Metro. This will be a chance for the government to improve transport connectivity locally. I have made strong representations on this to the government including the boosting of services including in the off-peak and improving the area’s east-west linkages.

Whilst bus route changes are necessary to fully integrate the new Sydney Metro line into the wider public transport network, this cannot be at the expense of transport connectivity for communities such as Lane Cove North or Willoughby who rely on bus services. I will be clear – the NSW Government must not use this as an opportunity to cut local bus services. Changes to routes need to maintain an equivalent or higher level of services. If for example the 288 is to terminate at Macquarie Park, then other routes through Lane Cove need to pick up the services lost. The welcome addition of bendy buses on route 120 will increase capacity on the important Penshurst St and Willoughby Road corridor.

I'll closely scrutinise the impact of the government’s plans on our community and strongly advocate for any improvements needed.

I’m here to serve and represent you – please reach out if I can assist you with any state issue at willoughby@parliament.nsw.gov.au or 9439 4199.

MILES HUNTERS HILL MAYOR

P: 9879 9400

E: mayor@huntershill.nsw.gov.au

Record number of major projects being delivered! I am proud to report that we are well on track to deliver a record number of major projects as we near the end of this Council term.

Building on the success of Gladesville Reserve which was reopened earlier this year, we are thrilled to have reopened Figtree Park, another cherished asset in our community. The park has undergone a major upgrades, enhancing its accessibility and functionality.

Highlights of the Figtree Park revitalisation project include a state-of-the-art inclusive playground, garden beds, a new spacious plaza accessible via Gladesville Road, upgraded pathways, as well as vastly improved lighting, drainage, seating, and overall amenity.

It gives me great pleasure to reopen this beautiful space in the heart of Hunters Hill. The improvements have made the park more user-friendly and in line with the needs of our community, while also contributing to better connectivity throughout the village.

Looking ahead, our next opening will be the Boronia Park Sport and Community facility.

We look forward to continuing to deliver these significant projects.

NAIDOC Week

Last month, our Council achieved a significant milestone by launching our first Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP). The RAP sets the stage for our unwavering commitment to Indigenous Australians, and serves as a cornerstone for future reconciliation initiatives.

This transformative step marks the beginning of a meaningful journey towards reconciliation for our Council.

As we approach NAIDOC week, we are reminded of the importance of the history and culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This special week presents an opportunity for all Australians to gain a deeper understanding of First Nations histories.

Our RAP is an essential guide that lays out our commitments to actively support and acknowledge our First Nations people. To read our RAP, visit www.huntershill.nsw.gov.au/RAP.

Plastic Free July

Council actively supports residents on their journey to improve their recycling habits and to reduce their waste through the services, programs and events we provide.

Whether recycling with our partners at RecycleSmart or disposing of plastic bottles at the Henley Community Centre Return and Earn vending machine, taking small, practical steps is an easy way to be a part of the solution; and this makes a big difference to our environment in Hunters Hill. Join the challenge to go plastic free this July to be part of the solution to reduce our footprint.

For more information about Plastic Free July, visit www.plasticfreejuly.org.

ZAC

SOLD

• Terrific basement offers an entertaining room, wine cellar/gym, double garage

• Floor-to-ceiling flow to undercover alfresco with built-in BBQ

• Designer kitchen with Franke sink and tapware, fully integrated fridge

• Two ensuites, guest W/C, master quarters with custom dressing room

Michael Gallina 0402 320 265 E: michael.gallina@belleproperty.com

Cameron Brown 0438 594 708 E: cameron.brown@belleproperty.com

SOLD AT AUCTION

• Gently sloping block, treetop outlook over Stringybark Creek reserve

• High ceilings, layout flexibility, tailor living areas for the family

• Expanse of floor to ceiling glass to covered deck, sunlit private lawn

• Expansive main and ensuite, equally spacious bedrooms and sunroom/study

Patrick Lang 0423 891 807 E: patrick.lang@belleproperty.com

Tim Holgate 0400 802 888 E: tim.holgate@belleproperty.com

SOLD PRIOR TO AUCTION

• Free flowing living and dining space with tiled floors, new carpets

• Moder n kitchen with island and breakfast bar, integrated appliances

• Three bedrooms/built-ins, master features WIR and chic ensuite

• Fully tiled family bathroom has deep soaking tub, laundry, storage

Simon Harrison 0433 100 150 E: simon.harrison@belleproperty.com

Kim Walters 0499 014 886 E: kim.walters@belleproperty.com

SOLD PRIOR TO AUCTION

• Exquisitely renovated and extended to suit modern lifestyles

• Kitchen with breakfast island; flexible fourth bed or office/ retreat

• Blissful backyard with fire pit, poolside pergola and studio

• Master walk-in wardrobe and access to huge main bathroom

Jay Assay 0452 185 529 E: jay.assay@belleproperty.com

29 Landers Road, Lane Cove 3 bed 2 bath 2 car

3 Pendray Close, Northwood 3 bed 2 bath 2 car

36 Long Avenue, East Ryde 4 bed 2 bath 2 car

81c Tennyson Road, Tennyson Point 5 bed 3 bath 2 car

Cheese & Wine

You're invited to a delightful evening at the Amara display suite on Longueville Road. Enjoy wine, bubbles, and delicious cheeses while mingling and learning all about the Amara Residences Seniors’ Living community.

Wednesday 10th July & Wednesday 14th August 5-6.30pm In Amara Display Suite, 103 Longueville Rd, Lane Cove

Places are limited. To RSVP call 1300 266 260 or email cbennett@amararesidences.com.au