The Village Observer October 2020

OBSERVER

FREE

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

pick me up AND TAKE ME HOME

LOCALS ON LOCKDOWN: A BLESSING AND A CURSE THE REGIONAL NSW TOWNS RE-IMAGINED FOR TOURISTS PLUS, LOCAL NEWS, COMMUNITY PROFILES AND MORE

Proceeds from The Village Observer support residents in need from Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Ryde, Willoughby and North Sydney areas, through Sydney Community Services.

ISSUE 295

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OCTOBER 2020

I thevillageobserver.com.au

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CONTACT GEORGE - 0411 809 503 VISIT HYECORP.COM.AU 2 TVO

VISIT OUR DISPLAY APARTMENT @ L2, 706 MOWBRAY RD, LANE COVE SAT 12-4PM, SUN 1-3PM | OR BOOK AN APPOINTMENT 7 DAYS A WEEK *DISCLAIMER: FOR ELIGIBLE PURCHASERS ONLY

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contents 6 News 9

Life’s Rich Pattern

12 Meet our Locals - Diana Hallowes interview Feature Story - How lower North Shore 14 locals rose to the Covid Challenge 28 Regional Communities 30 Wellbeing 34 Carisbrook and the sausage sizzle 35 100 Words 36 Review 37 Story - Freya short story by Julian Ledlin 38 Sydney Community Services 4 TVO

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:

Lane Cove Council Eden Gardens Advanced Dentistry Sydney Ramsay Health Hyecorp Storage King

Our welcome distractions

hello READING: It’s an often quoted passage by Dickens written in A Tale Of Two Cities: “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair.”

I suspect every generation since time began has felt an affinity with that quote. I have certainly come to appreciate each day as it comes, and I imagine many of you have too.

Back at the end of February, with a heavy heart, we closed TVO. Our March edition was almost at the printers, but advertisers started to get nervous (quite rightly too) and our door-to-door distribution method looked like a sure-fire way of spreading the virus letterbox to letterbox.

Fast forward to a month ago and the spring of hope came upon us. Advertisers got in touch and readers started to pop their heads up, asking when we might return. It was very flattering. So, here we are – back in the printed flesh, like we should be.

We’re still too cautious to send delivery people out touching everyone’s letterboxes, so instead we’ve teamed up with Council, supermarkets, shops and everywhere else in between to make TVO available on the first Friday of every month in stands across the area. We’re even extending our tentacles into Crows Nest and Artarmon for the first time.

We’ve had many new partners come on board – thank you so much to them.

It’s also vital for us to get the message across that we are a non-profit magazine, owned by Sydney Community Services. Any profit we do make goes straight back to the charity and into services for those vulnerable and disadvantaged in our community.

Cloudstreet by Tim Winton - it’s never too late to read this outstanding Australian classic.

WATCHING: Good Girls on Netflix which suburban mum hasn’t considered robbing a supermarket?

COOKING: Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall’s Mexican Bean Soup - turns out an 8-year-old can master this one…

SPIRIT LIFTING: TV show Schitt’s Creek deservedly walking away with all the Emmys

It’s really good to be back.

GIGGLING AT:

Nicola, Sharon and the TVO team

Comedian and Chef “Nat’s What I Reckon” - making a hilarious damning assessment of supermarket jar sauces

PS – we have arrived on Facebook (better late than never) and we are tempted to join Instagram, so keep your eyes peeled. Like our page if social media’s your thing.

NEW ARRIVAL: NICOLA RICHES EDITOR editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

Designer Sharon’s new adorable dog Max – a regal mix of Kelpie, Corgi and Koolie

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news Hunters Hill Welcomes New Mayor Sustainability, both financial and environmental, and community engagement will be key focus areas for Ross Williams as the new Mayor of Hunters Hill.

Councillor Williams will serve as Mayor until the next local government election, scheduled for September 2021.

His election follows previous Mayor Mark Bennett’s decision not to continue for an additional year in the role, as local council elections originally scheduled for September 2020 were postponed for 12 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Clr Jim Sanderson was re-elected Deputy Mayor.

Greenwich Village Arts Trail is Back The popular Greenwich Village Arts Trail, now in its ninth year, is back with local artists opening their studio doors to the public on November 7th and 8th.

Many of the artists on the Arts Trail have won multiple awards and have been hung and shown at prestigious art events. Visitors can enjoy wonderful bush and waterfront walks as they wander from studio to studio, and choose from four cafes for meals and coffee. All COVID-19 safety precautions are in place. Studios are open on the weekend each day, from 10am to 4pm.

A map of the trail can be found at www.greenwichvillageartstrail.com.au

New Hunters Hill Mayor Ross Williams

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Art Lives In Hunters Hill Hunters Hill is gearing up for two major art exhibitions during October and November, celebrating the talent of the local community. Young in Art, the annual art exhibition celebrating student artwork from local schools, will open on Thursday 29 October and will run until Sunday 1 November, at Hunters Hill Town Hall. The Council is also launching local community art exhibition CommunARTy in November.

The celebration of local art and artists will be held from 6-15 November at Hunters Hill Town Hall and online.

For more information go to: huntershill.nsw.gov.au/art

Old Coles Site Update News on what will happen to the site previously occupied by Coles has been covered online in the last month quite extensively, however, for those who missed it, the developer, Sun Property, has modified its plans and lodged another DA with Lane Cove Council.

Where there were plans to demolish the building and start afresh, Sun Property now intends to renovate the existing building to include a new supermarket (named as Harris Farm in the lodged documents); a liquor store; medical centre and other food and drink premises. Furthermore, the building will include public toilets, offices, and the installation of travelators, lifts and stairs. The faรงade of the building will also undergo a significant overhaul (see picture).

It is believed that there will not be changes to the existing car park behind the building.

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Early Days of Bushland Restoration in Lane Cove

St Leonards and Crows Nest Plans Modified, Good To Go

A new book, Early Bush Regeneration in Lane Cove, by local Sheila Walkerden, has been published about the years from the early 90s to 2008 when local bushland was transformed.

Including maps by Helen McNamara, and before and after photos of many sites so that it is possible to see the transformation, it shows what can be achieved by careful regeneration.

Burns Bay Bookery is stocking the book, priced at $15. There will also be copies available for students requiring research material in the Marjorie Barnard Local Studies Room at Lane Cove Library.

New parks and public spaces, better pedestrian access and more employment space are set to enhance the heart of Crows Nest and St Leonards, the NSW Government has stated following the release of its 2036 Plan last month. A consultation on proposals had been open for several years, and owing to strong community engagement, the final plan has been modified to include: a 10 per cent reduction in new dwellings that previously put forward; more than $78 million secured from developer contributions for new parks and public spaces (an increase of $20 million); planting of more than 2,000 new trees; doubling the employment space, with an extra 119,979sqm of commercial floor space; and $20 million secured from developer contributions for new education facilities. The plan will also be supported with new transport links, with the NSW Government also approving the Crows Nest Metro rezoning.

Crows Nest Over Station DA still out for consultation Repair Café Open Again The Repair Café at The Living and Learning Centre, 164-180 Longueville Road, Lane Cove is back (complete with COVID safe plan) on the first and second Sundays of the month.

For now you’ll need to make an online booking via the website (www.repaircafesydneynorth.net/bookrepair/) and spaces are limited to 16 (so if you’ve been saving up those repairs, get in quick). For the month of October, the types of repairs have been limited to sewing, gadgets and jewellery, however, that will change in due course.

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Sydney Metro has submitted an application, which amended the proposal for the Crows Nest Over Station Development concept application, which involves the build of three towers; one that was previously 27 storeys and now reduced to 21; another coming in at 17 storeys and the third, nine storeys. All three buildings will combine residential and commercial space, as well as a 101 -space carpark. Submissions can be made on the NSW planning portal.

LIFE'S RICH PATTERN

When in doubt, Zoom out

BY LIZ FOSTER

As the world struggles through managing Covid we’ve moved from resistance to weary acceptance. Early enthusiastic ‘lockdown hobbies’ (baking, sewing, crafty stuff that made non-creatives shudder) proudly displayed on social media have come and gone, along with the initial burst of nervous energy.

We might now all be experts at video conferencing, but it’s taking a while for folks to understand how the private has become more public than ever. In case you didn’t realise - you are being seen and heard unless you turn your mic and camera off. If you get up, people will see what’s on your bottom. If you take your shirt off, people will see what’s under your shirt. Whatever you do, don’t keep your earphones in if you go to the bathroom.

The good news is we’ve been learning together. At the aged care facility I work at, we set up regular family Zoom calls with residents. Zoom-connecting 103-year-old Olive with her 79-year old son was a challenge I’m proud to say we met.

There are gaffs a-plenty though – like the boss who made her avatar a potato and couldn’t work out how to change it, so a spud she remains. Or the student calmly rolling a spliff during an online tutorial. My friend Jen was multi-tasking making dinner with watching television and Zooming in to a worldwide sales forum. Video off and sound muted, she fired sporadic instructions to her family over the top of the Bachelor theme tune. Her blood froze minutes later when, glancing at the screen, there was a raft of global comments to the tune of ‘whoever is having meatballs for dinner please mute their microphone.’ She learned the hard way that pressing the spacebar unmutes Zoom.

It’s easy to forget to be professional, with Snuggles the cat making a guest appearance or the postman delivering that thing you ordered online. A friend had a complicated Zoom with her lawyer recently. There was

a basket of washing with a pizza box perched on top in the background, with nary a sniff of fee reduction. There’s no excuse, especially as you can pick any other funky background, (make sure to stay in the same spot or the background swallows you up like the Star Trek teleporter.)

It looks like we’re stuck with it, but buyer beware – if you want or need any support, good luck.

“We strive to answer this support request as soon as we can. With the surge, it will likely take us much longer to respond to your ticket” was the answer I got to a query, nine days after submitting it. Nine days to say they’ll get back to me as soon as possible, mind, not nine days to actually answer it. But would I like to share how I’m using Zoom for my business, and upgrade my account in the meantime?

At least our aged care residents now get to see more distant family members, so it has its place. If Zoom ever get around to answering my query, I might even keep it. But it’ll be nice interacting with people in the real world and substituting elbow taps for real hugs and kisses again.

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ASPECTS

WHEN 16th September

TIME 1.30pm

WHERE The new Lane Cove pool

TVO grabbed a sneaky shot of the new pool, just before its official opening on October 3.

Fences are still in place and there are some finishing touches to be done, but it looks absolutely glorious all the same. Cannot wait to plunge in this summer!

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Local writer and artist

Local Author’s Kids Book Published Local writer and artist Lindsay Holliday has unleashed Danger Versus the Ranger - the first in a series of humorous new chapter books for primary school readers. The story focuses on 11-year-old Danger, his trusty dog Jett, and friends Charlie and Jimbo, who together outwit the local bullies and the Ranger.

The book is out now on Amazon and in Sydney stockists including Burns Bay Bookery and the Lost and Found Department in Hunters Hill.

Art Expression Classes Open If you’re looking for social support and ways to express yourself, consider popular art expression classes run by Sydney Community Services at 184A Pittwater Road, Gladesville.

The group can now safely fit six artists, each working at their own table with a two-square-metre space to meet COVID safe plans. The classes take place Wednesday & Thursday mornings & afternoons (twohour sessions).

For more information contact Gaynor Starkey, Disability Services Coordinator at GStarkey@sydneycs.org or 0437 041 811

Selling your home? Why property styling is your new best friend To say that the property market we experience today is different from what previous generations experienced is an understatement. On the backs of home improvement shows and competitions and the increasing demand for a picture-perfect lifestyle, the need to impress has become allconsuming as purchase prices continue to climb.

They say that you know within eight seconds of walking into a property whether or not you want to buy it. Eight seconds! If you’re selling your home, how can you possibly hope to attract the eyes and hearts of would-be buyers in such a short amount of time? Enter your property staging expert – the property stylist.

Thinking of selling, call me today: HAZEL MCNAMARA Senior Sales Agent/JP

0402 913 537 E: hazelm@lanecove.rh.com.au

www.raineandhorne.com.au

The advantages of using property staging to sell your home Property stylists have a keen understanding of the industry. They know what buyers want, they know what real estate agents can use as selling focal points and they can deliver a high-quality look that will transform a home.

Think of it this way. You have an emotional attachment to your home. You’ve raised children there, embarked on a number of (potentially too) aspirational renovation projects and you’ve seen some serious life happen behind that door. It’s impossible for you to objectively style your home so that other people can see themselves living there too.

There’s too much ‘you’ there and it gets in the way of that eight-second love connection being able to develop. If your property staging expert is aware of the demographics of your potential buyers, they’ll be able to tailor the styling to best suit buyer interests. They’ll choose pieces that speak to a certain kind of lifestyle and cleverly hide the flaws and quirks that you can no longer see. It’s poetry, really.

Property stylists, on average, can help secure a higher sale price on your home which would increase your potential return on investment. Like any service, you don’t NEED one to sell your home – but it certainly seems like it couldn’t hurt!

If you are thinking of selling and would like expert advice on preparing your property for sale, call Hazel today on 0402 913 537

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MEET OUR LOCALS

interview: Diana Hallowes Diana Hallowes is an artist who has been part of LC Art Society since 2003. She has led an extraordinary life, having been born in South Africa and then spending time in global locations such as Botswana, London (twice!), Canada and of course, Sydney. She enjoyed a career in publishing, while raising four children (whose ages span 15 years) and in 1992, established her career as an artist.

She was a recipient of a Lane Cove citizenship award in 2017 and is also part of the Stringybark Creek Residents Association with her writer husband, Guy. The Hallowes - L to R: Kevin, Guy, Diana, Catherine, Dougal, Stephen

 You moved to Lane Cove after emigrating from South Africa in 1986. Why did you leave, and how did you come to land in LC? We left South Africa for political reasons. The Apartheid regime was in government and civil war seemed likely. We wanted to give our children a home they would never be thrown out of. We settled in Lane Cove by a lucky chance.

We flew into Sydney on 18th January 1986 (our Australia Day, celebrated ever since) at night in pouring rain and two taxis took the six of us, plus a mountain of luggage, to the flat we had rented. We found Lane Cove was a lovely suburb and it seemed easier to buy a house here than go elsewhere and move schools for everyone.  You had four children when you arrived in Australia: one at Uni, one at High School, one at Primary School and a two-year old, while managing a full-time job. Can you share one trick for all juggling mothers?

I would say, as I did then, “Make time to have fun together - it mustn’t be all hard work.” After that, I would suggest you get the family to help you (we all cleaned the house together every Saturday) and drop your standards of how perfect everything has to be. Relax sometimes.  Tell us about your career before painting...

In 1981, I worked for Grinaker Construction Group in Johannesburg on their company magazine and advertising – a great job where I learnt the publishing trades – design, layout, editing, writing and photography. I continued my career in publishing until I stopped full-time work in 1992.  You have enjoyed stints living in Toronto and London, always returning to Sydney. How did the three cities compare? And is Sydney home now?

Sydney I loved from the beginning - the hard part was 12 TVO

making our way as migrants. It soon became home and we took out citizenship as soon as the two years were up.

There were differences in the climate and the people and culture from what we knew, but we were easily assimilated.

Toronto was a different story - it felt very alien. The weather was bitterly cold most of the time - occasionally it went down to -25 plus windchill, but it was the relentless -5 to -10 every day for months that got to me. People seemed to hibernate in winter. I found a way in via the Toronto School of Art and also a group called Newcomers - intelligent, international women who, like me, did not have work permits and so had time to do things together. London in 1969-70 I found cold and primitive, and life with a small child restricting, though I loved the galleries, theatre and music. The class system was very evident. In 2005, when we returned, our circumstances were quite different, with money, comfort (central heating!), family nearby and freedom to travel. We have visited often since and could live there easily.  When did you join LC and Ku-ring-gai art societies?

I joined Lane Cove Art Society in 2003, followed by Ku-ringgai. I kept up membership during our posting to London.  If there is one thing you think art societies offer communities, what is it?

I think art societies foster an interest in art in communities at the grassroots level, and encourage active personal participation in making and enjoying art. They provide an opportunity to show and sell your work and a forum to discuss what is important and exchange ideas, both practical and philosophical, and to find interests in common.

“Tidal Pool” by Diana Hallowes (watercolour)

 What are your hopes and ambitions for LC Art Society?

Lane Cove Art Society has always been extremely friendly and welcoming, and I want that to continue. I joined the committee when Frances Frolich was president, when we used to hold exhibitions in the Cove Room at Lane Cove Council. Since then the Society has gone from strength to strength, particularly as we reached our 50th anniversary in 2015 with Chrissie Lloyd as president. I would like to see more growth in the Society, and I would like to encourage many more people to visit our exhibitions. Gallery Lane Cove is a beautiful venue in which to exhibit and we are looking for ways to publicise it more and get more people through the door. I would also like to encourage all our

members to help with the running of the society and to suggest topics and speakers for our meetings. Now, with president Lyn Teal and an enthusiastic committee, we should continue to flourish.  Having brought so many artists and ideas to LC, what is your proudest achievement?

I can’t think of a proudest achievement. What I am most proud of is achieving a balanced life - a happy marriage of 53 years; four children and six grandchildren, following independent paths but enjoying good times together; the opportunity to pursue a passion for art; a beautiful home in a supportive community and the freedom to travel.  Which is your favourite art gallery here and overseas?

My favourite Sydney gallery is SH Ervin Gallery on Observatory Hill, a spacious gallery where many excellent exhibitions are held. Worldwide, my favourite is the National Gallery in London, where it is easy to drop in for an hour or more at any time and look at some of the wonderful collection of work on permanent exhibition.  Which artists do you personally admire?

I admire Turner, Gainsborough, Rembrandt, Rubens and Vermeer; also Monet and Degas. As a watercolourist myself, I love John Singer Sergeant’s work. Australian artists - Hans Heysen and Cressida Campbell. Actually, the artists I admire are too many to mention!

“Ageing Gracefully”

by Diana Hallowes (watercolour)

 What does the word "community" mean to you?

Community to me means a coming together of people with the joint purpose of making everyone’s lives fruitful, happy and productive; people who are all different but who fit together to make up the fabric of our society and feel at home in it. It is a place we can call home.

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A blessing and a curse HOW LOWER NORTH SHORE LOCALS ROSE TO THE COVID CHALLENGE

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FEATURE STORY

TVO spoke to residents of Lane Cove and surrounding suburbs to gauge their response to the pandemic. The answers were far-ranging, proving that COVID has revealed the strengths and weaknesses in our community and environment.

Can this be the making of a new normal?

WORDS: NICOLA RICHES

T

he first confirmed case of COVID in Australia was identified on January 25 when a man who had returned from Wuhan tested positive for the virus.

Worrying reports from places such as China, Iran and Italy hit the news, but it was still unclear what it all meant for the lucky country.

Despite the debacle that accompanied the arrival of the Diamond Princess cruise ship, back then, in February and early March, Australia didn’t appear too rattled.

We may have revealed ourselves to be the only country with a strong predilection for stockpiling loo roll, but the Prime Minister moved swiftly to reassure everyone by moving jigsaws onto the “essential items” shopping list, so fears were momentarily quelled.

However, as we left summer behind, watching the footage of over-burdened Italian hospitals, an altogether different picture emerged.

Local cases and losses started to travel up the curve.

At that point, a silence descended, as it does on a crisp, snowy morning, or at the end of a steaming hot day. It was a palpable silence, not just brought on by diminishing traffic, or the hushed hum of everyday life. It suspended us in a space where our regular routines evaporated.

Those early weeks are from another time now. Since then, we have become almost too aware of how each statistic, decision and announcement has a guaranteed place in the history books. We are confronted by our significance in history, in a story that is unique to us. How this bears down on our collective psyche remains to be seen.

The history books will be packed with millions of accounts, for the COVID experience is different for everyone. For some, it has sadly delivered the worst of outcomes. Many families have been separated and will continue to be. But for the more fortunate ones among us, it momentarily brought about a welcome change in

lifestyle, family life, work life or all the above.

TVO conducted a vox pop (courtesy of In The Cove’s FB group) to gauge how Lower North Shore locals have handled lockdown, and continue to manage the day-to-day limitations of COVID restrictions. While it is impossible to stop worrying about our senior residents, or those who are more isolated, it has been reassuring to read the wonderful accounts of resilience and moments of joy.

Lane Cove and surrounding suburbs enjoy access to more than 90 hectares of bushland and parks. It is one of the area’s biggest drawcards. Many locals told us that without it, they might not have fared so well.

Resident Beate Müller explained how previously unexplored bushland provided solace for her and her family in lockdown.

“We’ve lived in the Cove for almost five years, but only through the pandemic did I really start exploring the neighbourhood, the bush reserves, walking tracks and beauty around this area. I love living here even more now,” she said.

Being deprived of access to the area’s much-loved café culture was a struggle for most we spoke to.

Elaine McFadden, a resident in her seventies, is a self-proclaimed social butterfly and enjoys the local village vibe.

“As an elderly lady – that is their term, not mine - I felt very worried by all reports that my age would go against me, with a virus that none of really knew anything about. Like the social butterfly I am, I pulled in my wings and went back into my cocoon,” she told TVO. “It has been a worrying period, but one thing I am really pleased about is that my Mum didn’t have to live through this. They had enough things in their lives, with war and depression.

“My new life is social distancing in lovely Lane Cove.

It’s wonderful to be back in Gelatissimo, drinking coffee with all my friends.”

IMAGES Left: Local bush walks. Above: Elaine McFadden TVO 15

Sarah O’Donnell and family

Sarah Walmsley and kids

son was born,” she explained. “This meant no visitors, Sarah Elizabeth O’Donnell, a local mother of two, found that the lockdown afforded her a slower pace and no going out, no clinic nurse appointments, no mother’s more family time: “When the news first hit life was still group - just me, a newborn and a two-year-old at home.” normal and I organised a third birthday and my second Another local Mum with young kids, Sarah Barter, baby’s baptism in the same weekend. But come a week revealed the added, unwanted pressure lockdown brought later and everything changed. to her life: “I pretty much had a mental breakdown,” she she “We took our three-year-old out of daycare and enjoyed told TVO. “When lockdown was first proposed, the thought having my hubby working from home. It was scary to go to of being stuck inside trying to entertain two boys under the shops, but I loved spending days painting, doing science five and generate business in a two-bedroom apartment as experiments, riding bikes, chalk drawing and afternoons at a newly single mum and sole practitioner was terrifying.”

Pottery Green social distancing with other families playing Luckily, Sarah got through it, in part helped by running races and blowing bubbles.” the community and the green, lower north shore Many have recounted a story similar environment. “I’ve felt incredibly lucky through to Sarah’s - a halt to the daily commute this whole thing to live in Lane Cove with its buying time back for families, time leafy streets, parks, and local, walkable spent outside building community grocery store options, so we never had to (who knew that “Going On A (Teddy) travel far from home.

Bear Hunt” would be so much fun?), “The other really positive thing,” she and more opportunity to indulge explained, “was the opportunity to get our hobbies and interests – sales of to know my neighbours and community cooking, crafting, sports and exercise better. magazines (yes, actual printed “My neighbour left a bag of Easter eggs magazines!) were up, according to one with a note from the Easter bunny at my Sarah Barter with kids Jonathan and Timothy media company TVO spoke to. front door and delivered ice-cream for my Bikes sold out all over the country. boys’ birthdays.”

Pet rescue centres emptied as dogs enjoyed

Like many, both Sarahs endured mental the time of their lives. Kids, where they could, health challenges during lockdown. And although played in the street, and who would ever forget the Anzac New South Wales is currently enjoying a different fate to ceremonies where people stood at the front of their homes Victoria, COVID has revealed the weaknesses in our system at 6am with candles to pay their respects? The Aretha to cater for those who are at risk.

Franklin album “Who’s zooming who?” took on a whole The University of Sydney Brain and Mind Centre new meaning. issued a report in August called Rethinking Mental Health But of course, COVID brought challenges to overcome. in Australia, flagging that the support system for those Who didn’t breathe a massive sigh of relief when the dealing with mental ill health was seriously flawed, preschools reopened? Or when the shelves restocked with COVID. loo rolls, pasta, flour and Nurofen, (which was supposedly “The pandemic has provided a definitive message,” its ineffective when it came to the virus anyway)? authors said. “Business as usual approaches that prioritise But for some, the challenge was far greater than taking traditional, very centralised, top-down, mental health homemade Italian food off the family meal planner. planning mechanisms just will not work and are not good Local resident Sarah Walmsley went into labour in the strategies. Repurposing the past is not an option. thick of it. “Everything was shut down two days after our “Consequently, there is an urgent need to design a 16 TVO

Kids playing in the street

Enjoying an autumn walk to the shops

contemporary, responsive, and effective mental health system, that learns from the past but is fit for Australia in the 21st century not the 20th.”

The report drew upon the rethink on homelessness, brought about by COVID lockdown restrictions: “People long left on the streets were suddenly accommodated in hotels, a change permitting them to link to other services designed to improve the quality of their lives.

“This change is a template for how we can reengineer mental health more broadly,” it suggests.

Liveable cities and access to green space has also come into sharp focus. Callan Park in the Inner West was the subject of many news reports after it enjoyed increased footfall during lockdown.

Friends of Callan Park president Hall Greenland told SMH: “The government would come under increased public pressure to improve the amenity of the grounds following the COVID crisis.”

Callan Park will not be the first, or last green space issue that COVID has delivered to the door of state and federal government.

Proving that we flocked to green spaces to maintain our health in lockdown, RMIT even reported that birdwatching increased tenfold during that time, although we do wonder how that was calculated…did the birds tweet the researchers?

Cheap (cheap) jokes aside, we are far from being out of the woods.

Some of us may have been lucky enough to see our kids learn to ride bikes on trafficfree streets, or watch their husband’s hair grow into an unfortunate mullet, or perhaps, enjoyed the liberation of chucking the homeschooling schedule in the bin, or even, revelling in the moment where turning a hand to upholstery seemed like a future career plan (it wasn’t). But COVID has unmasked the strengths and weaknesses in our work, life, health, community, and family support systems. The challenge will be remaking them for our ‘new normal’.

Kids, where they could, played in the street

Anzac Morning Decorated serviceman Neil and wife Christine

Neighbours giving away herbs

Kids Lockdown Fun

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Battling at the coalface of Covid The travel industry has been slammed like no other.

Here TVO’s favourite travel agent, Adrienne Witteman, recounts her experience of what have been the toughest eight months.

M

arch to June seems a bit of a blur. After closing our Lane Cove office (consolidating our resources back to the “mother-ship office” at Northwood/Longueville so as to avoid the increasingly unaffordable LC commercial rents, better manage staff resources and to better look after our valued clientele), life took a surprising new turn.

Suddenly, I had to move beyond justifying Trendsetter’s downsizing to managing our day-to-day existence, proving that we would see out this horrendous pandemic, no matter what.

Never in my wildest imaginings could I have foreseen the storm that was about to envelop us.

What was the new norm one day, was out-of-date 48 hours later. Quarantines were imposed. Planes stopped flying and cruise ships were marooned offshore. Australia went into lockdown.

No exits without permission, and no entries without quarantine.

Life at the coalface has been tragic.

Travel agents of my generation are a fairly stoic bunch. In the last two decades we’ve endured several crises – SARS, swine flu, the Bali bombings, September 11, the introduction of the GST, the collapse of Ansett, the pilots’ strike, the migration to a nil/negligible commission for many travel products, and the seductive influence of the internet supposedly making everyone into a travel professional.

But nothing surpasses these last eight months. Conservatively, Trendsetter has cancelled and refunded, or

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suspended, around $8m worth of bookings. And we are not finished yet. We are still chasing refunds, and managing credits, on behalf of many clients. It is singularly depressing work undoing all the work we did in 2019. Depressing because we are giving back the money earned that has already paid salaries and rent.

Depressing because this is a nonrevenue exercise. Depressing because the pressure, at least initially, was incessant.

Not unexpectedly, clients called or emailed us constantly and we had 10 hour days with barely a minute to grab lunch. The communications changed daily – from memory, we’re up to the 17th and final version 17 of rules/restrictions/waivers from Qatar.

The phone queues were interminable for several weeks. Etihad advised us that to continue to hang on we had to press ‘1’ to agree to pay a $50 fee to talk with someone, or hang up! I am still chasing QF refunds from cancellations made in March. There is still a big list of unfinished tasks.

But we’re here to stay, and still working, and that’s a good thing.

And some good has come out of the pandemic.

Suddenly people love us again, for amongst all of this angst it is clear that travel agents still occupy a very important and trusted niche. Apart from refunds, we organised flights for several clients otherwise destined to remain stuck on the other side of the world. The loveliest messages? “You’re a miracle worker”. “All checked in and on our way home – can’t thank you enough.” “These flowers and chocolates are small thanks for all you have done.” And more…

And bouquets from us to you, to all of our clients who appreciate that the Trendsetter Travel team provides

an essential service in navigating cancellations and rebooking, refunds and credits, saving you the hassle of seven- hour telephone queues and more.

Will we survive this current crisis? YES! My staff – Andrea, Judy, Tanja, David and I may not be young and spunky (sorry team!) but they have what you truly value – wonderful knowledge, a commitment to creating fabulous journeys for you and a well-honed service ethic. We don’t have big bold marketing, or TV and newspaper advertising as we don’t have the budget and nor is it needed. Our clientele is primarily founded on wordof-mouth referrals, and mutual loyalty.

It will always be so.

One of my Covid hobbies has been creating, at last, photobooks of my most memorable trips from 20172019. Looking at the photos, reliving the memories, and feeling gratitude for all the travel I have thus far done is keeping me inspired for the future. I hope you feel the same and enjoy my sharing just a few of these with you.

Until next month … happy dreaming and happy planning!

Please note that we are currently open reduced hours. Please email or call prior to visiting our store.

Now enough gloom and doom. 2021 will arrive, there will be a vaccine, Australia and the world will reopen and you’ll be able to travel once again. So while you are cocooning consider this: • W hen the world returns to normality there will be pent up demand for travel, as Australians do not like to sit at home for long. Start planning now as a welcome change from Netflix. We have plenty of brochures to inspire. Some things are hot now e.g. The Ghan, The Indian Pacific and Kimberley cruising so don’t wait if these are on your bucket list; • I nitially at least, there will be extraordinary valued added options galore both domestically and internationally to encourage travel.

Tell us now where you want to go and we’ll keep an eye out for deals – two for one airfares, ‘pay 3 stay 5’ hotels, solo travellers without a single supplement and more…

• A nd while cruising might be somewhat out of favour, there has never been a better time to buy a Covid19-free luxury cruise for sailing in 2021.

3 Northwood Road, Longueville

9428 5900

www.trendsettertravel.com.au TVO 19

Find joy in Spring

something for everyone GARDENS • PLANTS • HOMEWARES • CAFE

Mention ‘eden’ and get

20% off pot & plant combo

Plants, pots & contemporary homewares along with fully licensed cafe. Open 7 days A place where passion, creativity and knowledge for all things gardening is celebrated.

307 Lane Cove Road (cnr Fontenoy Road) Macquarie Park Ph: 02 9491 9900 Follow us on

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eden gardens macquarie park

eden_macquariepark

edengardens.com.au

October is all about outdoor living.

The focus this year is all about wellbeing and nesting at home, small gatherings and nature-inspired design that is good for you and the environment. It’s the perfect time to revamp tired potted plants, do a backyard blitz on your place or mini makeover of your balcony. It is the season for feeding your soul, your plants and your mind. For planting herbs and new season’s vegies, as well as the seeds of change.

TOP SPRING TRENDS

3. Clustering Pots

1. Immunity Building Plants Incorporating garden goodness into your diet and lifestyle. Think sage, citrus, aloes, ginger, garlic and spinach for starters; there are so many herbs and spices you can use in teas, smoothies, curries and soups.

Pairing different textures and colours in containers can create an eclectic combination that’s bang on trend. Staggering heights, using plant stands, hanging baskets and incorporating reclaimed occasional tables, bbqs and even air-conditioning units can help create and interesting ensemble rather than an assembly line. We have a fabulous range of new light weight pots that have just landed in store and specials if you buy a set, so grab a combo while you can.

2. Indoor plants for wellness Put your plants to work sucking the toxins out of your home.

The chemical released from paint, furnishings and electrical create a phenomenon called the sick building syndrome, but luckily studies have shown that many indoor plants work away removing these from the atmosphere. Ask us to show you NASA’s top list of ‘air cleaners’ that will help you breathe easy.

5. Naturally Native Add some sustainable natives to your potted or planted garden. From grevilleas to banksias, kangaroo paws to bottlebrush, you’ll not only attract birds and bees, but also have endless flowers to pick for a bunch inside.

Best still, natives are drought hardy once established, and can cope with the summer heat.

4. Tasty garden takeaway

6. Biophilic Design

Plant summer salads like rocket, baby spinach, silverbeet, sorrel, basil, cherry tomatoes, baby capsicums, nasturtiums and calendulas. These can provide instant flavour and colour, as well as nutrition straight from your patch to your plate. We can guide you in your selection so you just have to add dressing!

Creating a home habitat that’s good for you is what this movement is all about. It’s about opening up your home to the outdoors through visual connections like highlight windows and views, but also about using natural materials in your styling and curve geometries to reinforce the free flowing nature of the great outdoors.

Eden Gardens want to say a huge thank you to all those loyal customers who have supported us during this difficult year, and a warm welcome to those who have found us for the first time.

We hope we can enrich your life with plants.

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found

local inspiration + gifts + food

LOVEbomb Circle with Turquoise Earings $45.00 The Fair Trade Cove 126 Longueville Rd, Lane Cove 0414 354 144

The Lost and Found Department 9879 7254 thelostandfounddepartment.com.au

Little Red Robin Restaurant & Wine Bar Dine in or take away littleredrobin.net.au Bopo Women Rose Quartz Facial Roller $39.95.

Be.U Natural Shop 10, 115-119 Longueville Rd. Lane Cove. https://be-u.co/

Urns full of colourful Succulents, from $49

Ivy Alley Passy Ave, Hunters Hill

ivyalley.com.au

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Bean Drinking Cafe 1 / 13 Ernest St, Crows Nest bean.drinking.cafe/

Love where you live Proudly bought to you by Lane Cove Council

Welcome to Eat Street Get ready Lane Cove - a trio of exciting new food venues are about to burst onto the scene along Birdwood Lane at The Canopy. Here’s a taste of what’s to come when doors open this month...

Sugarlane Missing the flavours of your favourite Southeast Asia destinations?

It’s time to give your tastebuds a holiday and experience Southeast Asia like never before as Milan Strbac, Executive Chef of Coogee’s Sugarcane, brings his signature flavours over the bridge.

With a refined beach hut feel, Sugarlane’s impressive menu reads like a who’s who of sure-fire favourites.

A taste of the ceviche and you’ll be transported to sandy shores without a care in the world. If you’re looking for a stand-out from the crowd dish then you can’t go past the sensational wagyu beef rendang curry.

Lane Cove is in good hands with Milan Strbac at the helm after he spent five years working at Sydney favourite Longrain before his successful venture in the Eastern Suburbs. Grab the family, get in touch with your friends, Sugarlane is Lane Cove’s ultimate food destination.

Peanut Butter Jelly It’s time to mix things up, Lane Cove. Feel like washing down your new favourite curry arancini balls with a peanut butter whiskey sour or tucking into the pork belly bao while sipping a salty rim honey and ginger > continued over page TVO 23

margarita? Sounds interesting? Then you’ll be right at home at Peanut Butter Jelly! Infusing street food with street art, the team at PBJ know how to create a world of cuisine and drinks worth celebrating. After years of experience at their sister venue in Manly, they know how to set the mood for any occasion, right down to the s’mores brownie bomb and peanut butter infused alcohol which will leave a lasting impression of the eclectic mix that makes them a restaurant to remember.

Garcon “Garcon!” calls the patron to the waiter who arrives swiftly with a confident smile. Bringing a dash of theatre to Eat Street is French-inspired venue Garcon. Whether it’s the mesmerising steam that rises as the crepe batter hits the pan or the sound of the ice cubes rocking back and

forth as your cocktail is being prepared - you’ll be able to feel a certain je ne sais quoi to the way things are done at Garcon.

You’ll be hard pressed to find

a time of the day not to drop by, especially with the new selection of Whitley Neil Gins adding an extra level of distinguished taste to the shelves before the doors open later this month.

For opening hours and contact details visit www.thecanopylanecove.com.au

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Councillor Pam Palmer, Mayor of Lane Cove P 0431 959 980

E mayor@lanecove.nsw.gov.au

OCTOBER 2020

Spring is well and truly here, bringing with it the warmer weather and the chance for some of Lane Cove’s most beautiful features to shine.

There are plenty of ways that we can all stay safe and enjoy our local area – from harbourside bushwalks to exploring one of the four parks we opened over winter including Cameraygal Park, Djanaba Park (at 552 Mowbray Road), The Canopy and Mindarie Park. I hope you can take advantage of living in Lane Cove this October.

Latest News

St Leonards South: The St Leonards South Planning Proposal has been finalised by the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, consistent with Council’s resolution of 11 May 2020. This included a reduction in the height of buildings along Canberra Ave and Park Rd and will come into effect from 1 November 2020.

Bob Campbell Oval: Council is currently in the process of consulting on a Masterplan for Bob Campbell Oval in Greenwich which includes a synthetic sportsfield, new playground and picnic area, off-leash dog areas and a range of amenities.

To view the Plan and take part in the online survey, please visit www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ haveyoursay by 27 October 2020.

Northwood Shops: Members of the public are being invited to comment on the controls Council has put forward for the Northwood Shops in its draft Development Control Plan (DCP).

As the Development Application has also been lodged for the proposed mixed use development with aged care facility, the DA notification is also underway and separate submissions should be made on each matter. To find out more, visit Council’s website before 15 October

New 50m Pool & Grandstand: From 3 October you can dive-in to the new outdoor pool and grandstand at the Lane Cove Aquatic Leisure Centre.

Completed in time for the 2020/2021 swimming season, it is fantastic that we can enjoy this impressive facility now that the weather is warming up.

Greenwich Baths is also open now for the season.

Caring for our community

New Youth Centre: Tucked underneath the new pool grandstand is an equally cool space in the form of Council’s new Lane Cove Youth Centre. The area includes a fabulous new demonstration kitchen for the popular Friday Night Cook Ups as well as versatile rooms, a drop-in space and new outdoor basketball court. The Centre will be able to return to regular services following the school holidays.

Changing Places: I am pleased to say that Lane Cove is now home to two Adult Change Facilities which provide an appropriate space for members of the community with high support needs to fully participate in Lane Cove life. The first is located at The Canopy at the northern end of Level P1 and is the only one available in a public space on the North Shore. The other new adult change facility is at the Aquatic Centre, located at pool deck level to offer increased access to pool users.

National Carers Week: October 11 – 17 is an opportunity for us to recognise the 2.5 million Australians who provide care and support for family and friends. Council has joined NSW Health to promote a range of informative online talks.

You can head to www.lanecove.nsw. gov.au/carersweek for the full details

Traffic Light Upgrades: Works are about to start on new traffic signals on the corner of Burns Bay Road and Tambourine Bay Road while improvements are being made to the existing signals at the Blaxlands Corner intersection to help make it clearer to identify the through-road.

Out and about in Lane Cove

Kingsford Smith Oval: The pavilion at Kingsford Smith Oval has received an upgrade thanks to a NSW Government Heritage Near Me grant.

The Longueville venue now has a new amenities building, upgraded clubhouse and grandstand which will be enjoyed by sporting clubs including the local cricket teams this Summer.

Draft Artist Impression 1

Did you know?

You can now receive your rate notices direct to your inbox.

If you’re interested in signing up, visit Council’s website:

www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ Draft Artist Impression 3

onlineservices

TVO 25

What’s on Lane Cove October Book online: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events Local Businesses

Lane Cove Small Business Breakfast: Wednesday 21 October, 7:00am – 8:30am, Terrace Function Room, livestreamed. Local Lane Cove businesses are invited to join us for a free Business Breakfast where you will be able to hear from an inspirational speaker and network with other local businesses.

Bookings are essential as numbers are limited: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/lovewhereyoushop

Library

Online Author Talk - Chris Hammer: Wednesday 14 October, 6.30pm – 7.30pm, online.

Australian author Chris Hammer will be live via Zoom to discuss his latest book, Trust.

Book Week Online Storytime: Thursday 22 October, 11.00am, online. Watch Council’s Library team perform their favourite shortlisted books of 2020.

This event will include a presentation of the Book Week competition winners.

Book online: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Bushcare

A Bug’s Life– Insects in your Garden: Wednesday 7 October, 6:30pm - 8:00pm, online.

Let’s talk bugs! Not all insects and spiders are pests, in fact most bugs provide amazing ecosystem services for

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your garden and other urban green spaces. Discover more about the life of mini beasts, how to attract beneficial bugs and the ways they keep our gardens healthy. A fascinating, interactive presentation by Macquarie University researcher Dr Lizzy Lowe.

Book online: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Community

National Carers Week – Conversations for Carers: Monday 12 – Friday 16 October, each day from 10:30am – 12:00pm, online. National Carers Week is about recognising and celebrating the outstanding contribution unpaid carers make to our nation. Council is co-hosting the following virtual talks throughout the week: Caring for the older person, Developing emotional resistance, Let’s talk about male carers, Better outcomes for people with intellectual disability, Caring for someone who has experience trauma.

Book online: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Road Safety

Biketober: 1 – 31 October.

Take advantage of the beautiful spring weather and join Council for this year’s Biketober Business Challenge! This free and fun challenges aims to help you rediscover the joys and benefits of riding a bike! Ride anywhere, anytime during October and you could win some amazing prizes.

Find out more: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/roadsafety

Proudly presented by Lane Cove Council

Download your 2020 Lane Cove Community Directory today at

www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/festivals TVO 27

The little towns thinking big Australia’s regional communities have never faced so much adversity, with tourism bearing the brunt of the impacts.

Regional centres are reimagining themselves in clever ways to lure city-dwellers and catch staycation dollars.

WORDS: TRACEY PORTER

Moora

I

Derby

n February 2018, the Australian Government announced Here, locals are taking advantage of the region’s plans to shape Australia’s next long-term tourism naturally low levels of light pollution and extraordinary strategy. night sky to develop successful telescope tourism.

Called Beyond Tourism 2020, the strategy was due to Carol Redford, known colloquially as Galaxy Girl, is the commence in January 2021 and regional tourism had been founder and CEO of Astrotourism WA and was instrumental identified as being critical to its successful implementation. in helping to put the region’s burgeoning tourism enterprise As part of this process, the country’s key trade and on the map. investment agency, Austrade, asked tourism organisations Radford is currently working with 15 local governments around the country for their thoughts on how the sector who are eager to develop the astrotourism sector of the could ensure it was resilient in the face of what it called region’s tourism industry and together they are developing “global shocks” beyond 2020. a resource that maps the best places to star gaze and At the time, there was little cause for concern. The identifies the best spots for astrophotographers to shoot. regions were enjoying around 280 million visitor nights “We’ve created these safe places where visitors know per year, and 60 per cent of all visitors were domestic day they’re welcome to go to use telescopes and cameras, or trippers. simply to just take their favourite picnic rug and a nice In February 2018, no-one could have imagined the drink and lie back under the milky way,” Radford says. catastrophic events headed our way in the form of “In a world that is becoming lighter and lighter drought, bushfires and floods, followed just because of light pollution, WA can get darker months later by the crippling effect of a and darker. All we have to do is keep it dark global health pandemic and the resulting and we will have this world class asset for decimation of local economies. many years to come.”

But as history shows, Australians

Dirranbandi, a small country are irrepressible and from the ashes of town famous for its cotton production, these tough times have risen tales of has also discovered that it is experiences how alternative tourism is helping rural - not towns - that draw tourist dollars. towns to reinvent themselves.

Located on the border of Derby in Tasmania is one such Queensland with New South Wales, example. Located in the northeast of Dirranbandi only has a population of Carol Redford Tasmania, Derby sits quietly on the banks about 640 people but like many small towns Astrophotography of the Ringarooma River and until 2013 was was struggling to survive. considered a sleepy town.

To help boost the local economy and In recent times it has reinvented itself as a mountain introduce city-based visitors to the local lifestyle, it bike mecca that now attracts 30,000 people per year and launched the Great Escape tour, the crux of which centres injects up to $18 million into the local economy. around the area’s rural agriculture show.

Morawa in the mid-west of Western Australia is Featuring sheep, cattle, cotton and cooking, the twoanother small town where forward-thinking innovators day paid holiday not only includes a visit to the local show, have realised how to make the most of the area’s natural but guests are able to see what the area is known for by visiting cotton crops, wineries and enjoying breakfast on attractions.

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WHAT’S NEW IN NSW don’t let a closed border ruin your fun…

Nestled within 18 hectares of subtropical rainforest, Byron at Byron has just reopened its doors on after a $6 million refresh. The resort features a new restaurant, offering sustainable produce, with 80 per cent of all ingredients sourced within a three-hour drive of Byron Bay. www.crystalbrookcollection.com/byron

Koojan Salmon Gum Reserve

the river.

The Bank of Ideas founder Dirrandanbi Peter Kenyon is a community change and r e n e w a l expert who has spent the past two decades working with more than 1,500 communities seeking to facilitate fresh and creative ways that stimulate community and economic renewal.

Kenyon says rural communities are beginning to understand that by recognising what assets they have, they can be the architects of their own economic futures and build strong, enterprising and sustainable towns.

“People have discovered again this thing called community and community solidarity. People want to get back to basics and there is a large number of young people that have actually returned back to their roots. Above all else, what I am seeing is the number of towns that are starting to see – particularly as we’re not spending all that money going overseas – they can be part of this amazing tourism industry.”

“It’s amazing what communities realise about their potential when they focus on the assets at their disposal, particularly natural resources that locals often take for granted.”

To celebrate its reopening, Icebergs Dining Room and Bar has launched a wine list highlighting the wine regions of NSW. Our state has more than 14 wine regions and Icebergs has cherry-picked from some of the best. www.idrb.com Just outside of Dubbo in the Central West, Callubri Station is the next high-end farm stay to put on your travel wish list. The Merino sheep farm has event and dining spaces, and guests can stay in chic Sky Suites. facebook.com/callubristation/ Escape the everyday at Marramarra Lodge, sublimely positioned on the edge of the Hawkesbury River. Boat transfers, a sunset cruise, gourmet breakfast, lunch and a degustation dinner prepared by a Michelin-star chef are all included. www.marramarralodge.com/ Book a guided backcountry tour with Thredbo Backcountry Tours and venture beyond the popular snow slopes. Ride across the incredible mountain landscape and learn about the unique terrain and important backcountry safety skills. www.thredbo.com.au/activities/backcountry-adventures/ backcountry-tours/ Join Bill Peach Journeys and embark on a seven-day spring adventure through the heart of Australia’s food bowl in the stunning Riverina. Discover acclaimed wines, taste gorgeous fresh produce and explore spectacular scenery through the country towns of Wagga Wagga, Gundagai, Jugiong, Cootamundra, Temora, Narrandera, Lockhart and Griffith. www.billpeachjourneys.com.au/tour/ springtime-in-the-nsw-riverina/ TVO 29

WELL BEING

10 Salt Replacements We all know that it’s good to cut down on the sodium.

Here’s a list of easy to find, and easy to use, alternatives.

Saltbush - An edible blue-grey shrub, there are at least 60 varieties growing in Australia. Saltbush leaves are fleshy with a salty, herbal flavour, and are very versatile. Use fresh leaves in salads or as a bed for roasting meats (it’s great with lamb) or fish, toss them into stirfries, dip them in batter and fry them, or use the dried leaves as a seasoning; ground dried leaves are a great salt substitute.

Vinegar – If the dish is falling flat, a generous dash of vinegar can liven it up – see white balsamic, apple cider, balsamic, rice, red wine, white wine, and champagne vinegars.

Infused oils – Aside from looking beautiful on the pantry shelves, infused oils are a wonderful replacement for butter, salted butter, or soy sauce or to add another layer of flavour beyond extra virgin olive oil.

Blood orange oil, lemon oil, chili oil, garlic-infused oil and more. It is worth taking a gamble and chucking in the unexpected.

Beer, red wine, coffee, and chocolate – A couple of squares of good quality, high percentage cocoa, can bring chilli con carne to a new level (combined with marjoram and who needs salt…).

Beer, red wine and coffee can enliven

stews, soups, chili, pasta sauces, and braised dishes on their own or instead of broth.

Tarragon – Wonderful on ripe tomatoes, tarragon is surprisingly versatile. With its liquorice-like, slightly bitter taste, it’s a flavour explosion.

Instead of going heavy on salt when you make scrambled eggs or chicken salad, perhaps add fresh or dried tarragon instead. This herb tastes especially delicious in butter or cream sauces with chicken, fish, and veggies.

Smoked Paprika – So delicious, it is tempting to throw this Mediterranean

Working from home Working from home is one of the many changes that has come about due to COVID 19. In the clinic we have seen many people who have developed new pains as a result of working from home. Most people automatically blame their home work setup, be it the dining room table or a home office. While their setup may not be as ideal as that of the office, it is often only a small part of the problem.

The biggest problem with working from home is the increased amount of time spent being sedentary. The lack of movement loads and fatigues the muscles often resulting in pain especially in the neck/ shoulder region.

The challenge is building movement into your workday while working from home. Building some time out into your work diary where you can walk around the house or garden, do some squats, star jumps or similar beside your desk can help.

If you are experiencing pain as a result of working from home, we are here to help to alleviate your pains as well as help with strategies to reduce the loads on your muscles and joints to keep you moving freely.

BURNS BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY 161 Burns Bay Rd, Lane Cove P: 9427 8333 E: info@burnsbayphysiotherapy.com.au

www.burnsbayphysiotherapy.com.au Ann 30 TVO

Jill

Kirsty

and other savoury dishes. Plus, black pepper, like paprika, may decrease inflammation. You can likewise try white pepper, peppercorn mixtures, and pepper alternatives, such as jalapeños, chili peppers, and cayenne peppers.

and South American staple in everything. Even the deep red colour is captivating. Add it to taco meat, stews, chili, and nachos. You can also use it to replace salsa, which is often high in sodium. Word has it too that this spice may have several health benefits on account it containing the compound capsaicin which reduces inflammation.

Dried onion or onion powder - British chef Nadiya Hussain, the queen of quick shortcuts for time poor families, swears by dried onion or onion powder, throwing it gleefully in almost everything she cooks. It’s a time saver, but it’s also a solid salt replacement.

Strangely more potent than fresh onion, it can be swapped for salt in stirfries, soups, stews, dips, and salsas. It also offers a hint of sweetness.

Ground Black Pepper – Perhaps reach for the pepper, but leave the salt alone? Yes, salt and pepper are a classic culinary duo. Black pepper is a good addition to soups, roasts, pastas,

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Coriander – Not to everyone’s liking, you’re either a lover or a hater of what other countries call cilantro. It has a warm, floral, lemony taste and is often added ground or whole to salsas, soups, and curries. Coriander also boasts numerous antioxidants, including terpinene, quercetin, and tocopherols; compounds that may boost brain health and immunity.

Saffron – The most expensive spice in the world, it has a sweet, honey-like taste. A little really does go a long way - too much saffron in a dish can make it taste bitter. Works best in paella, bouillabaisse or risotto. Can also be used in baking or added to a tomato sauce.

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TVO 31

10 dentist’s secrets to maintaining great teeth

BY DR ANDREW SEE

BDS Hons (Syd), FRACDS, MSc(Lond), PGDipDentImplantology, MFGDP(UK), FICOI

Tooth wear is becoming increasingly more prevalent in today’s society. What is it exactly? It is described as tooth destruction not attributed to a bacterial source. Once you start losing tooth structure you cannot grow it back. Whereas dental decay is due to bacteria, the main source of tooth wear are attrition, abrasion and erosion.

Studies show that the frequency of eating dramatically affects the risk level for tooth wear.

Snacking or grazing foods high in sugar or acid throughout the day results in more acid production and less opportunity for neutralisation of acids by your saliva.

Secretly, I like my ice cream, chocolate, coffee and bananas just as much as the next person, so I’m going to give you some dentist’s secrets on easy ways to preserve good dental health, without totally eliminating these foods from your diet.

1. Rinse your mouth out with tap water after you consume something acidic and/or sweet, for example, after drinking coffee.

2. Chew sugar free gum after meals.

3. Eat or drink dairy products such as milk and cheese after you consume something acidic and/or sweet.

4. Consume acidic or sweet foods or beverages within the main mealtimes.

5. If you do have a snack, choose dairy products or nuts over fruit and chocolates.

6. Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day.

7. Choose food and beverages above a pH 5.5.

8. Control medical issues

Dr Andrew See is a key opinion leader in the areas of Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry. His practice in Hunters Hill, Sydney is focused on aesthetic rehabilitation and implant dentistry. 9816 4885 www.advanceddentistry sydney.com.au

such as stomach reflux and vomiting as they can cause more acid in the mouth.

9. Practice meticulous oral hygiene procedures with an electric toothbrush, fluoridated toothpaste, and interdental brush/floss.

10. Schedule and attend regular active maintenance (check up and cleans) with your dentist.

Ramsay Psychology St Leonards, Sydney

Are you or a loved one looking for a psychologist?

Our team of experienced Psychologists provide personalised and evidence-based care for adults, teenagers and children across a wide range of mental health concerns, including: • Depression and anxiety • Burn-out and excessive stress • Trauma and post-traumatic stress • Substance misuse and addictions • Eating concerns • Interpersonal and family difficulties Face-to-face and video conferencing appointments are available now.

To find out more or book an appointment call 1300 171 715 or visit our website. ramsaypsychology.com.au 32 TVO

Health anxiety and ‘Dr Google’: when search becomes unhelpful It is common to feel anxious about health issues you might be experiencing. But there is a difference between arming yourself with information and self-diagnosing, writes Registered Psychologist Olivia Loughnan.

Health concern, or health anxiety?

Search engines and health concerns are not a good mix

If your body is sending you signs that you are unwell, it is normal to be concerned. A strong headache might make you wonder if it is a sign of illness, especially if you have recovered from health issues in the past.

But rational, reasonable concerns about your health are not the same as health anxiety.

Health anxiety, previously referred to as hypochondriasis, is characterised by excessive fear of having or developing a serious illness and misreading your symptoms.

With health anxiety, people can often feel extreme distress about real or imagined symptoms, even after tests come back negative or a doctor reassures them that they are healthy.

They may become so consumed by their worry that the distress negatively impacts their quality of life.

Search engines like Google will try to ‘answer’ your questions using sophisticated algorithms. But what’s missing in the equation is context and your personal story.

The other issue with consulting Dr Google is that people are often drawn to click on the results that are intriguing or potentially frightening.

This, in turn, impacts on the online ranking of the website – the more times a user clicks on a search result after typing a query, Google sends it further to the top of the list, occasionally fuelling misinformation.

Witnessing extreme or scary results can also lead to further health anxiety.

COVID-19 and ‘Dr Google’ If you are concerned about your health, the sensible thing to do is attend a doctor. But people experiencing health anxiety have a strong tendency to self-diagnose.

What’s more, as a result of COVID-19, people may feel nervous about attending a medical centre due to fears of contracting the virus.

This makes it even more tempting to turn to ‘Dr Google’. The internet is a rich source of health information, but it does not always provide relevant, accurate and non-conflicting information. Put simply, Dr Google is not a doctor!

When a doctor makes a diagnosis, many complex factors come into play, including pre-existing issues, medications you might be taking, or other disease interactions. Dr Google is unable to assess you as an individual in the same way.

Think you might have health anxiety?

• Do you have excessive fears of having or developing a serious illness?

• Do you have no symptoms but fear that you are sick?

• If you hear about an illness do you start worrying that you have it?

• Does your worry fail to subside even after reassurances from your doctor?

• Do you constantly seek health information online?

• Are these worries about your health interfering with your capacity to enjoy your life?

If you have answered yes to any of these questions, it might be worth consulting your doctor or a psychologist.

Managing health anxiety The most important thing to know about health anxiety is that it is a treatable condition. Options can include psychotherapy which can help you to manage and move past

your concerns. In some instances, medications can also be prescribed.

The most common treatment for people who worry excessively about their health is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). CBT will teach you to identify your own patterns of anxiety and help you to develop your confidence and ability to manage your symptoms.

In therapy, health anxiety sufferers might explore ways to recognise symptoms, examine potential triggers, eradicate anxiety-inducing behaviours and engage in mindfulness techniques.

Therapy also extends beyond health anxiety. Psychologists treat people with depression, other forms of anxiety, addiction or substance abuse issues, cognitive concerns, and other challenges, helping them to develop healthy ways to live the fuller life they deserve.

Olivia Loughnan is a Psychologist at Ramsay Psychology - located on the ground floor consulting suites at Northside Group St Leonards Clinic. To learn more, or to book a consultation, call 1300 171 715 or visit www.ramsaypsychology.com.au.

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Carisbrook restores a sense of calm Carisbrook Open Weekends are making a much-welcome comeback. But one local resident wants to know when we can expect the return of the sausage sizzle…

Carisbrook is once again open on the third weekend of every month (as long as COVID-19 restrictions do not change). Organisers have put COVIDSafe procedures in place and have also launched a fabulous self-guided audio tour of the house.

The opening of Carisbrook is another move towards normality. Lane Cove Historical Society has helped keep spirits up during this time by publishing ‘Local Life in Lockdown’ stories on its website: www. lanecovehistoricalsociety.com.au.

We were so taken with one, written by local resident Troy Harvey Graham, we requested to publish it here…

Our National Covid-19 Recovery Plan Has Hit A Snag!

Something is seriously amok.

Has anyone else noted in our attempted return to normalcy that the resurgence of the very linchpin of our society is still yet to be addressed?

Not a word from Daniel or Gladys. Nary a peep from Annastacia, Mark or Peter. Even the Aussie all-rounder, ScoMo himself has failed to make an announcement on the one national institution that brings us together as a country like none other.

When will the ban be lifted on the Bunnings carpark barbecue?

I’ve been to Bunnings on a Saturday just to get a sausage sandwich. I didn’t even need a drill bit, or even a lazy stroll down the paint aisle for a quick high from the fumes. I went purely for the magical and unbeatable combination of meat with bread and sauce.

Now you may cry, “But what about social distancing?” To which I’d reply, “Okay, you make a valid point, but I think we have been sausagial distancing now for too long!”

I ask you; how can we have a return to sports, beaches and cafes but still call ourselves Australian without the availability of our national dish? So, what’s stopping the sizzle comeback?

Is it the queuing? Many of us have already worked out the system behind the floor markers in the shops, so why can’t they be adopted in this scenario? Okay, I concede that only about 65% of us have worked them out, while some 35% of people don’t seem to see the sign that says “stand here or die”, but those people would simply be asked to leave sans sausage.

Onions: We know they’re slippery characters. They’ve caused troubles at Bunnings even before the virus. I’m sorry, but onions will be off the menu for the foreseeable future.

That may make some of you cry... but having less onions will mean less tears in the long run. Especially for those chopping them.

Sausage spacing: Now that the onions have been

dismissed, there will be more room on the hotplate for individual sausages to socially distance themselves. It may be overkill, but saying that each sausage has maintained a 1.5cm distance from any other sausage will probably help put some people at ease.

Sauces: Instead of the ludicrously overhandled sauce and mustard bottles, why can’t we just introduce those squeezy packets for a while? Sure, they’re terrible for the environment, but haven’t we stopped worrying about that for the time being? The virus trumps it, right? Don’t worry, we’ll get back to the environment after we have a vaccine. We’ll have to what with all those non-reusable plastic syringes we’ll need for injections.

Bread handling: When preparing the bread station, perhaps the people behind the counter could wear some rubber gloves. I don’t just mean during the pandemic; this is a blanket statement for all food handlers. Please wear gloves. It’s weird when you don’t.

Right now, we need to get back to the basics.

Sausage sizzles may be the key to saving the Australian economy. They will certainly revive our flailing Aussie spirit in these tough times!

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100

WORDS Sue has not come downstairs this morning. Usually, she is the first to wake up. After breakfast, they walk out together and she sits under the pergola sipping her tea, enjoying the cool breeze.

Concerned he goes upstairs to check.

Sue is still asleep.

Later Grandma arrives with a lunch carton, leaves it on the breakfast bar, goes upstairs, speaks to Sue and leaves.

“It’s now late afternoon, poor Sue, has not eaten anything since morning”, he worries. Reaching for the lunch carton he takes it up to Sue. Amazed she pats and kisses him, as he licks her face.

THEVAKIE KARUNAGARAN, WOLLSTONECRAFT

John stood at Sydney Cove, hand shading his eyes in the sweltering heat, scanning the passengers disembarking, his heart thumping. His other hand held a rolledup newspaper. He waved frantically.

Rosina stood on the gangway, searching for John.

He had left London three years before. No work for bakers, he heard of opportunities in Australia. Hillston needs a baker, he was told; five hundred miles outback, he established his bakery and wrote to his fiancee to come.

In love, determined, but disowned by her family, Rosina packed her wedding dress, leaving London for the unknown.

Karen Paull

Community Chaplain

Encourage one another Over a coffee recently, I learned that to ‘encourage

one another and build each other up’ is not the norm!

My coffee partner was a young Lane Cove woman discovering the riches of Christianity. She was quite taken by this piece of biblical wisdom (1 Thessalonians 5:11) which I had shared on Facebook recently. I was surprised, because I thought this was obvious. As we discussed it further, it became clear her surprise was justified. Encouraging and building each other up can easily be replaced by a competitive spirit. Unfortunately, people tend to be pitted against each other in business, sporting, educational and many other environments.

Relationships can become a trade commodity based upon, ‘How can you benefit me?’ When this carries over into family dynamics, it is particularly sad.

Commodifying someone is to dehumanise them.

I enjoy competitive games and I like to win, but not at all costs. (I hope this doesn’t come as a surprise to my family and sporting friends!) Valuing my opponents as people and their self-esteem should always be my first priority. Competitive environments are the trickiest area for me in applying this wisdom.

Seeking to encourage others is now a way of life for me in other areas. It causes me to reflect that it hasn’t always been this way. It is something I have learned through a drip feed of decades of Christian teaching.

My self-esteem has also grown via the same source and through wonderful encouragers, who told me what they saw in me, when I couldn’t see it myself. Hearing the teaching, augmented by my personal experience of encouragement, combined to produce this good fruit in me, over time.

To sincerely encourage someone can help them tremendously. They may not tell you, nor show immediate signs of the benefit. If they have been subject to many discouraging or dehumanising experiences, they may even reject your encouragement initially.

Their emotional ‘bucket’ may be so depleted of helpful, encouraging content that it will take a long time to fill again. They may not be able to ‘hear’ encouragement, particularly in some areas of their lives where damage has been done. But if you do care for them, continue to try and find an area of their life to build up where they can hear you. Remember, there is good and bad in everyone. Let’s choose to focus on the good and acknowledge it.

ROBYN SLEET, LANE COVE

If you would like to contribute to 100 Words, email us: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

Contact details: Karen Paull 0400 299 751 lanecovechaplain@gmail.com www.lanecovecc.com LANE COVE COMMUNITY CHAPLAINCY

SUPPORTED BY LANE COVE UNITING CHURCH TVO 35

review TOP 4 BOOKS TO READ THIS MONTH

TO MY COUNTRY Ben Lawson (Allen & Unwin) In January, Ben touched our hearts with his poem To My Country in response to the bushfires. This collection book sees it republished with illustrations by Bruce Whatley.

TWO BESIDES Alan Bennett (Faber) Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads are acknowledged masterworks. Some 30 years later, Bennett has written Two Besides, a pair of brand-new monologues.

THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS AN EASY JOB Kikuko Tsumura (Bloomsbury) A young woman walks into an employment agency and requests a job that is close to her home, requires no reading, no writing - and ideally, very little thinking.

THE 52 WEEK PROJECT Lauren Keenan Lauren Keenan was separated from her husband and decided to try something new every week for 52 weeks. Her year of new experiences was a game changer.

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A BOOK LOVER’S REVIEW

BY JACQUI SERAFIM

American Dirt

by Jeanine Cummins

Lydia Perez is a middle-class book store owner living in Acapulco, Mexico with her husband, Sebastien, who is an outspoken journalist. In the opening pages of American Dirt, Lydia and her son Luca are, partly by chance, the only survivors of a massacre at a family celebration. Her husband and the rest of their extended family are killed. The reason for the attack is revenge from the leader of a violent powerful drug cartel so Lydia and her young son are no longer safe in their home in Mexico. They must flee Mexico with just the clothes on their backs and seek asylum beyond the reach of the cartel.

What follows is a desperate, perilous journey fraught with danger to cross thousands of miles across the continent and illegally cross the border to the United States.

American Dirt was an instant success with rave reviews, topping the New York bestseller list in the first month and selected by Oprah Winfrey for her Book Club list. It quickly became the subject of a controversy, though, and was heavily criticised by the LatinX literary community for “cultural appropriation”.

This is a fast-paced suspenseful story and a sympathetic insight into the plight of the thousands of Central and South American refugees fleeing for their lives. The reach of the drug cartels is long and wide so Lydia and Luca are constantly under threat. They are in constant fear of being recognised by cartel informants. They have little money and no male protection and must join the scores of refugees attempting to ride on top of “La Bestia”, the terrifying cargo trains, while evading the corrupt and violent border guards.

As a priest at a hostel warns her, “This path is only for people who have no choice, no other option, only violence and misery behind you…Many will be maimed or injured. Many will die. Many, many of you will be kidnapped, tortured, trafficked or ransomed…”

American Dirt is a compelling story with a wide range of well-drawn characters from the various victims of the drug cartels to the illegal migrant workers desperate for work to support their starving families. The constant threats faced by Lydia and her fellow travellers are terrifying and their courage and compassion are inspiring. As Lydia reflects on her own past privilege “All her life she’s pitied those poor people. She’s donated money.

She’s wondered with the sort of detached fascination of the comfortable elite, how dire the conditions of their lives must be wherever they came from, that this is the better option.” As Cummins explains in the afterword, “the people coming to our southern border are not one faceless brown mass, but singular individuals, with stories and backgrounds and reasons for coming that are unique.”

This is a fast-paced suspenseful story and a sympathetic insight into the plight of the thousands of Central and South American refugees fleeing for their lives.

story F

reya hated her reflection. It was always disappointed or annoyed.

It bossed Freya around with insatiable cravings. It tormented her with impossible desires and deflated her with unreachable goals. It had a knack of startling her on busy streets, sneer, then quickly slip back into the crowd. Freya did everything she could to avoid her reflection. Looking at the ground helped. A lowered gaze meant she could concentrate more on her shadow. She liked her shadow. It didn’t judge, it didn’t demand. It was always happy just to come along for the ride.

A steady, loyal companion, from the cradle to the coffin.

A frantic shopping mall is no place for a shadow. This is Reflection country.

Countless mirrored surfaces flashed hopeless images of Freya from every angle. She needed a coat, that’s why she was there. This reflective assault, however, had her thinking she needed more. She wondered if that’s why the mall was designed the way it was. What better place to realise that your clothes are old and tired and your skin is blotchy. You’re in luck! We’ve a shop for every angle! Tragedy meets prosperity. Like being run over by an ambulance.

This revelation eased Freya’s mind and she slowed to a more casual pace. She marvelled at the infinite maze of reflective surfaces that surrounded her. Glossy walls of polished marble and granite, stone that once steadied mountains and sheltered dinosaurs, now doing its bit for the brands. As she walked, she gently brushed her fingers along a length of glistening wall, imagining its life story... Before it’s boiled-sweetmakeover. Before the quarry. Back to the dawn of the solar system, when it was hurtling through space after some almighty explosion. Would it be part of a moon? An asteroid? No, a planet.

The most famous of all the planets.

Now here it stood, in stony silence, tightly withholding secrets of evolution, forgotten civilisations and interstellar wonders.

It’s always the quiet ones.

Lost in thought and daydream, Freya had stumbled upon an exit.

Natural light flared in from outside as if pleading with an invisible bouncer

FREYA BY JULIAN LEDLIN

to enter. Not in those shoes, thought Freya. She exited the mall, coatless, but content.

Outside, her shadow bobbed happily beside her, its sharp edges relishing the winter sunshine. Freya let the warmth radiate her young face. For the first time in a long while she didn’t have anywhere to be. Exams were over, and her nursing posting was weeks away. She looked forward to the change a career would bring.

School was a lonely place for Freya. Despite what the brochures may have said, it was no place for an

imagination. That had to be left at the door, in the bucket with the forgotten umbrellas. A nursing degree seemed the obvious next step for Freya. She’d been caring for her Dad since the accident, the one which killed her mother. While her peers compared outfits and drank passion pop in the park Freya would be at home, counting out tablets, cooking batches of chicken curry or reciting made-up stories to her bed-ridden father. These politically-charged adventures always involved a strong female lead, hellbent on social change, who usually fell in love with an equally strong, likeminded woman along the way. Freya loved the way her Dad’s face would soften whenever the heroine ‘got the girl’.

She could see the pride swell in his eyes. He was unable to speak, but he managed to say so much. One night, after a particularly negative day, Freya shared her insecurities with him. Of not fitting in. Her inadequacies. Her self-loathing. A solitary, full-bodied tear rolled down her father’s face. The next

morning, he was dead. Two years on, under that mid-winter sun, Freya still believed it was her sadness and selfpity that killed him.

She had reached a small group of shops which included a secondhand bookstore and an op shop.

After finding a tattered version of The Colour Purple in the old bookstore, she wandered into the neighbouring op shop. There, beside a rack of abandoned suits, an over-worked mannequin showed off a promising brown, suede coat. Leather buttons, large pockets and lined with sheep’s wool. It was $20. It was perfect.

“Alice Walker.” Came a soft voice from behind. Freya spun round.

“Sorry, what?”

The timid voice came from the shop’s assistant who was now pointing towards the book under Freya’s arm.

“The Colour Purple.”

“Oh sorry, yeah.” Freya was struck by her gentleness and interest.

“It’s beautifully written,” said the assistant, “one of my favourites.”

“Yeah, same. I got it next door. I haven’t read it in ages.”

Freya wondered if the assistant was experiencing the same surge of butterflies she was. She quickly spoke to avoid any awkwardness. “This coat’s pretty nice,” she said.

“Sure is,” said the assistant, “I really like it… but I could never pull it off.”

“Are you kidding!” exclaimed Freya.

“You could for sure.”

The assistant blushed. Freya was surprised at how well she was flirting.

She’d never really flirted before. She felt strong, confident and alive. Then Continued on page 45 >

SHORT STORY contributions welcome Please email your story to: editor@thevillageobserver. com.au All stories pblished will be gifted a $40 voucher from The Lost & Found Department, Hunters Hill.

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SYDNEY COMMUNITY SERVICES

Serving the most vulnerable through COVID-19 As a community organisation, Sydney Community Services is, by design, efficient and effective.

But even the most adept not-for-profits were challenged by COVID-19. This is the story of how SCS successfully pivoted and swiftly modified its capabilities to meet the demands of the crisis.

S

ydney Community Services (SCS) hit its stride in New standards 2019; a local powerhouse providing more than 15 Vital from the outset was establishing an internal COVID-19 valuable services to thousands of residents across response task team and safety plan that allowed SCS to the Northern Sydney Area. continue to function as unhindered as possible.

The arrival of COVID-19 in late February/ Several measures were immediately put in early March threatened to slow the place: consumer needs were mapped to organisation, but quick decisions, practical identify those most vulnerable in the A combined, modifications, and swift adaptation to the community; essential services were energised team rapidly changing needs of the community prepared for changing advice; meals and kept it thundering along. effort allowed personal protective equipment pipelines SCS CEO Gill Batt recounts those were secured to meet increased demand; us to adapt early days: “As an organisation built a working group was established to meet really quickly on efficiencies, we were already in a with government and social housing strong position to move decisively, but a representatives, and remote working was combined, energised team effort allowed us established with additional tools purchased to adapt really quickly. Guidelines changed at where required. such a rapid speed; we were certainly kept on our toes.

With staff, volunteers, venues, and vehicles ready, SCS Ultimately however, we are pleased at how we have been set to work on modifying each of its services, all the while able to respond to the community’s needs.” responding to unexpected day-to-day events.

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Groceries were donated in abundance by residents Wave of support The pandemic inspired a fresh wave of community engagement and SCS was delighted to receive the application of 100 new volunteers. Staff mobilised to establish a database of names who could be called upon in the event existing volunteers had to deal with COVID-19 emergencies themselves.

As the pandemic worsened, lack of stock in the supermarkets presented a big problem, particularly for the Phone Shopping Service. Coles and Woolworths suspended all online shopping and set up ‘priority only’ online shopping for vulnerable clients. SCS moved quickly to obtain the priority code with both supermarkets, and doubled the number of orders in comparison to the same time last year, its number of orders. The phone orders also gave SCS the perfect opportunity to run a wellbeing check with those calling in.

Groceries were donated in abundance by residents to both the Lane Cove and Hunters Hill offices. From March to August, Hunters Hill and Lane Cove provided 60 food parcels per week to the local community. Harris Farm delivered 15 to 20 boxes of fresh groceries three times per week, and while home deliveries were ultimately stopped, a network of connected clients were able to pick up packages on each other’s behalf. A weekly food parcel was also provided to Lane Cove Women’s Refuge.

undertook their usual work, and extended their to-do list to include a linen change, a service that had typically been undertaken solely by the linen team of volunteers.

SCS recovered from a 20 per cent drop-off in volunteers for home delivered meals (many of those were over 70 years, following the mandate to isolate) by increasing food runs, calling on the new volunteers and redeploying staff.

Orders increased by a staggering 30 per cent, prompting prompting Lane Cove Council to lend SCS two extra freezers.

Those benefiting from the linen service were contacted on a case-by-case basis to limit volunteers from entering their homes. Where Registered Nurses took up some of the slack, SCS liaised with the families of the clients to temporarily assist with the changing of new linen, and removal of dirty linen or wherever possible, dropped it on doorsteps for the client to manage themselves or with support from a neighbour, family member or SCS staff

Core services double down Meanwhile, the core services of SCS were reworked to manage the crisis. Registered Nurses and Support Workers did not miss a beat and continued to provide inhome nursing/clinical care to clients in their own homes.

Armed with PPE and COVID-19 safety training, the Nurses

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New volunteers provided wellness calls to more than 200 clients

member. Those delivering wore gloves and sanitised between drop-offs and pick-ups.

Home modifications and maintenance continued to deliver high quality workmanship and only saw a slight drop off in requests, purely because Occupational Therapists were unable to conduct in-home assessments. Some assessments were conducted via Facetime. This however has since climbed back to preCOVID-19 levels.

The gardening service continued by a team of gardeners and the volunteers have commenced returning to the program in the last few weeks.

Social connections While community events in Lane Cove and Hunters Hill were sadly cancelled, new volunteers provided wellness calls to more than 200 clients, both existing and newly identified as vulnerable. In a time where isolation was unavoidable, this contact was invaluable. Not to be held back, however, the first ever group of tech savvy seniors commenced English conversation classes via Zoom in early May. Social support groups for seniors and disability support groups resumed two-hour meetings in the Hunters Hill Hub (with door to door transport) from April 17, while garden visits and walking continued during lockdown for people without family close by.

As expected, SCS volunteers were not permitted to continue to visit Residential Aged Care Homes, as they

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would have previously. However, recent developments have meant that volunteers can undertake infection control training in preparation for a return to face-to-face visits.

In the meantime, volunteers make telephone calls, send letters and cards as well as window visit wherever possible.

From late March onwards, disability groups resumed their Social Club, Different Degrees Drama and Creative Movement classes via Zoom, and now, operating under COVID-19 safety recommendations the social and recreational group, walking groups and 184A Art Group function with number restrictions. A new walking group was established in August to meet greater demand.

Back on track On July 20, activities in the Hunters Hill Seniors Hub were resumed, although not to the same level as they were pre- COVID-19. Sadly, the pandemic has seen some clients who would use the Hub leave and fail to return. SCS is keen to provide reassurance that all COVID-19 safety measures are in place, including the use of sanitiser, cleaning between activities and using correct social distancing guidelines.

For more information on SCS, its services, events and activities call 9427 6425 or go to www.sydneycs.org.

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO GILLIAN BATT

A

9427 6425

long time ago when the world was normal Sydney Community Services served a number of roles in the lower north shore community. Our core responsibility has always been to support seniors and people living with a disability and to enable them to live a quality independent life in their own homes.

Keeping people independent, safe and well often involves home nursing, meals on wheels, home maintenance and modifications, shopping etc. These are things we will continue to provide throughout the pandemic, albeit with some modifications.

Our other activities were often lumped into the “nice to have� basket. These were the social activities like bus trips, monthly lunches, card games, table tennis, book club, movie afternoons and the knitting and sewing group.

At the beginning, when we ceased those activities, we offered to pair some of our more isolated clients with volunteers to chat and help if needed. Very quickly we found out that talking to a stranger is no substitute for meeting up with old friends, sharing common interests and simply being in the fresh air.

What we learnt is that giving people the opportunity to meet friends, have fun, and get out of the house is as important as everything else we offer.

Over the months we have had lots of people asking,

WWW.SYDNEYCS.ORG

even entreating us to re-introduce the “nice to have� basket. So gradually we have started to try and bring in a new normal, with a whole new protocol of masks, distancing, and regular sanitising.

Our Bus Outings for Older Men (BOOMers) have gone out the last four Fridays. We used to find nice coffee shops with walks and views, but now it’s a short drive to a park with a barbecue. Rather than the trip being a disappointment, the men have delighted in just being with friends, getting out of the house and getting to grips with the outdoor BBQ. The Village Bus goes out each Wednesday now and our bus trips start next month. We are thinking of other ways to help clients get out and about and meet each other again.

It’s not just the clients that have missed being with other people. All SCS staff have taken some opportunity to work from home to try and limit the numbers in the office. However, we have all found it very hard to work in isolation and miss our colleagues, and it has been hard to stop people sneaking into the office on any slight pretence.

It all goes to prove once again that we are all very social beings and need friendship and company just as much as we need the more practical elements food Emma Grimes, Michaellike Fitzgerald & Peter Lour and shelter.

A family business, now in our 48th year in Lane

CONVEYANCING | WILLS & ESTATES | COMMERCIAL L COMMERCIAL LAW | DEBT RECOVERY | GENERAL M

Hero of the Month Christine Nugent

For Christine Nugent, volunteering is simply an extension of what she has always done. “I grew up in country NSW, and although I didn’t know it, I’ve probably been volunteering all my life,� says Christine, who gives her time to be a volunteer visitor with Sydney Community Services.

Christine visits two clients, each without family nearby, who could have been at risk of isolation. She now calls them friends. In these pandemic days, Christine is not visiting but phoning her friends on a regular basis and is confident that they are managing okay.

Hero of the Month shines a light on those people who help the most vulnerable in our community, and is proudly supported by the honourable Anthony Roberts MP (member for Lane Cove).

To contact Anthony, email lanecove@parliament. nsw.gov.au or call (02) 9817 4757.

Emma Grimes, Michael Fitzgerald & Peter Louridas A family business, now in our 48th year in Lane Cove CONVEYANCING | WILLS & ESTATES COMMERCIAL CONVEYANCING. WILLS| & ESTATES. LEASING COMMERCIAL LAW | DEBT RECOVERY | GENERAL MATTERS

COMMERCIAL LEASING. COMMERCIAL LAW. DEBT RECOVERY. GENERAL MATTERS.

CALL

9428 1577 FOR AN APPOINTMENT

1ST FLOOR, 139 LONGUEVILLE RD, LANE COVE

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ANTHONY ROBERTS MP

ROSS WILLIAMS MAYOR OF HUNTERS HILL

P: 9817 4757 E: lanecove@parliament.nsw.gov.au

P: 9879 9400 E: mayor@huntershill.nsw.gov.au

F

irstly, I would like to say how brilliant it is to see the Village Observer back in action! Local media outlets such as The Village Observer are a crucial aspect of our small communities. They promote the local achievers who toil for our electorate, keep the electorate informed and give voice to local issues that affect our lives. So congratulations to the Sydney Community Services, I’m looking forward to seeing you long into the future.

On a local level, a considerable amount is happening as we head into the back end of the year.

In a lovely development, the Lane Cove Outdoor Pool has opened! The eight-lane 50m pool also has improved change rooms, marshalling area and sustainability features. The pool features a ramp for disability access and the artwork along the fence reflects the traditional owners of our lands- the Cameraygal people. My family and I are loving it as we make the most of this beautiful Spring weather.

Our village areas could be set for a big boost as a new NSW taskforce is set up to reduce outdoor dining regulations and make approvals easier to get. The plan is to have a pilot program in place before summer, so over the long term, we continue developing a safe outdoor dining culture.

The consultation period for the Bob Campbell Oval improvements is now open, so please head to the Lane Cove Council website to leave your feedback.

Finally, our Year 12 students are bunkering down to complete their HSC exams. I want to congratulate our school leavers on the exceptional resilience they have shown throughout the course of this year. I am sure the lessons you have learned, and the hard work you have demonstrated will place you in good stead as you move into the future.

Congratulations and Good luck!

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M

uch has changed within Council and our community since my last term as Mayor, but one thing that has remained the same is the passion and commitment of our people to serve this wonderful and unique place that is Hunters Hill.

I had the honour of serving as Mayor previously from 1989 to 1993 and I am excited to be doing so once again in the year ahead.

I’ve also had the privilege to serve as a Councillor since 2017 and prior to that from 1987 to 1999.

In this most recent Council term, we have seen improvements in service delivery, an increased focus on being a sustainable and thriving organisation and a commitment to accountability and transparency for the community.

Ensuring strong engagement with our community will be an important focus in the coming year.

We are pleased to be this month (October) offering our community an opportunity to get back to some of the much-loved events on our annual calendar.

With COVID-safe precautions in place, we look forward to showcasing the best of our young artistic talent at Hunters Hill Town Hall.

Young in Art is scheduled from October 29 to November 1 and is a combined exhibition and competition with artwork submitted from schools across Hunters Hill.

A further celebration of art will follow in November with CommunARTy, a free community-focused exhibition and prize.

October is also a great time to get out and about on two wheels in Hunters Hill.

Council’s draft Bike Plan - designed to promote and encourage bicycle use in Hunters Hill - is on public exhibition and we welcome feedback on how to make our municipality more cycle-friendly.

The exhibition period also coincides with the Biketober Business Challenge from Get Healthy at Work, a NSW Government program that aims to create healthy workplaces and improve the health of working adults in NSW. Its aim is to get people cycling, for as little as 10 minutes or more during October, with some good-natured workplace competition as an incentive.

FOR INFORMATION GO TO: lovetoride.net/nsw.

TRENT ZIMMERMAN MP P: 9929 9822

Lane Cove Pool opens this month

With summer just around the corner, it’s fantastic to see the Lane Cove Olympic Pool reopening following its complete rebuild.

It’s sure to be an absolute hit with local swimmers of all ages.

Residents will remember that the old pool was suddenly closed due to major structural issues. The pool is one of our area’s most important and serves both local residents and school students across a wide catchment. I organised a petition to campaign for the federal government to help Lane Cove Council rebuild the pool. The response from the local community was overwhelming and armed with that level of support I was able to secure $2 million from Canberra for the project.

The new complex will feature a brand new 8 lane 50 metre pool with a state

E: TRENT.ZIMMERMAN.MP@APH.GOV.AU

of the art divider that will allow the pool to operate in both 25 metre and 50 metre lengths. The pool has a new grandstand that can seat up to 800 spectators which will be perfect for competitions and school carnivals.

With the number of young families in our local area growing, improving our

local sporting infrastructure has been one of my priorities and it was great to see this project completed so quickly.

2020 School Leavers Guide

It’s been an incredibly tough year for our year 12 students this year who are attempting to complete their HSC or pursue other pathways. We’ve all had to adapt to the changes that 2020 has brought, but for many of our school leavers the stress of deciding what to do in life amidst a global pandemic My 2020 School Leavers Guide is a great starting point for young people to start considering what they want to do after school.

The Guide contains lots of useful information about education, training, financial support and employment as well as useful contacts they can use.

Lane Cove Mayor, Pam Palmer and Federal Member for North Sydney Trent Zimmerman MP at the site of the new Lane Cove Pool before construction started

If you would like a copy, please call my office at (02) 9929 9822 or via email at trent.zimmerman.mp@aph.gov.au

Best of luck to all HSC Students This year has been a challenging year across the school system for students, teachers and parents.

We are so thankful for the professionalism of school staff and teachers for their work during these difficult times. It’s been particularly tough for those in their final year of school and on behalf of our community I’d like to wish all year 12 students the very best for the HSC. My office has prepared a School Leavers’ Guide for year 12 students.

To receive a free copy contact my office on (02) 9929 9822 or email trent.zimmerman.mp@aph.gov.au.

TRENT ZIMMERMAN MP FEDERAL MEMBER FOR NORTH SYDNEY Level 10, 2 Elizabeth Plaza, North Sydney NSW 2060 trentzimmerman.com.au

TrentZimmerman

9929 9822

trent.zimmerman.mp@aph.gov.au

trentzimmermanmp

Authorised by Trent Zimmerman MP, Liberal Party of Australia, Level 10, 2 Elizabeth Plaza, North Sydney NSW 2060.

TVO 43

LOCAL GROUPS Keep in touch in your local area.

Enquiries: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au Listings to be approx 20 words per group.

1ST LANE COVE SCOUT GROUP Joeys 6-8yrs. Cubs 8-11yrs.

Scouts 11-15yrs. Venturers 15-18yrs 428 4061 www.lanecovescouts.com.

ALL AGE SUNDAY SCHOOL 223 Burns Bay Rd, Lane Cove West.

0434 432 175 www.metropolitanbaptist.net.au ANC MIXED SOCIAL GOLF CLUB Looking for new members to join social golf club, on the North Shore.

0411 559 909.

AQUALUNA CHOIR Fun acapella; pop, gospel, world, sacred music. St Andrews Church Hall, Longueville.

0402 839 499 paula@lul.com.au CARER SUPPORT Free telephone information/support service specifically for/about carers providing information, support and referrals. 1800 242 636, M-F, 9-5pm.

CLAN MACLEOD PIPE BAND Always wanted to learn to play bagpipes or drums? St Leonards Park, North Sydney. www.clanmacleodpipeband.com COMMUNITY CHAPLAIN brings spiritual insight to your life individually or in groups. Offers activities enabling locals to connect: local bush walks and games days, discussion groups, reflective activities and more. Most are free 0400 299 751 www.lanecovecc.com COVE INVESTORS Monthly evening meeting at Lane Cove Library, discuss and broaden investment skills. julianradom31@hotmail.com DRAMA SPOT Classes for 5-15yrs help to build strong and confident kids. Currambena, LCPS & LCM Church. 0402 342 986 / info@dramaspot.com.au ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLASS Improve your conversation English with trained facilitators. $3/ week.

9427 1163 www.lcmchurches.org.au EVANGEL BIBLE CHURCH ESL Classes - Meadowbank Free English conversation classes starteradvance Contact Andy 043 3119 083 FOODFAITH COMMUNITY GARDEN ​ Free individual plots for growing your own veggies, fruit and herbs still available. info@foodfaith.com.au GREENWICH SAILING CLUB Kids Learn to Sail. New members of any age are always welcome. gsc.org.au/gsc-training@gsc.org.au GREENWICH TENNIS CLUB INC Friendly local tennis club.

New members welcome. www.greenwichtennis.com.au admin@greenwichtennis.com.au HALLAM AVENUE TENNIS CLUB 58 Hallam Ave, Lane Cove West.

New members welcome. Hire courts from $10 per hour. 0424 229 259 hatc.hire@gmail.com HEALTHY LIFESTYLE Strength Training - exercises to improve muscle strength. 8877 5300.

44 TVO

HUMMINGSONG COMMUNITY CHOIRS A network of women’s a cappella choirs. Chatswood choir ‘Alkira' is open to new members. www.hummingsong.com.au HUNTERS HILL BRIDGE CLUB Keep mentally fit, have fun and make friends? Hunters Hill Bridge Club, Crown St, Henley. 0438 619 780 or sheldrakecarol@gmail.com HUNTERS HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH Main gathering is Sundays in various homes in our community.

Cnr Ferdinand & Alexandra Street.

9817 2282 or www.hhcc.org.au HUNTERS HILL CROQUET CLUB 1 Matthew Street. New members welcome. Contact us and arrange to come and try the game 0490494965 huntershillcroquet@gmail.com HUNTERS HILL MUSEUM Hunters Hill Town Hall, Alexandra Street.

Regular exhibitions and events. www.huntershillmuseum.org.au HUNTERS HILL WOMEN'S BOWLING CLUB Seeking new members. Free 0419 258 662 or 0408 110 082.

HUNTERS HILL SENIORS’ CHESS GROUP Weekly social games – no expertise needed. Ironwood Company Coffee House, 102 Woolwich Rd, Woolwich. Register: SCS 9817 0101 / ssmall@sydneycs.org HUNTERS HILL SAILING CLUB Kids/teens/adults learn to sail programs, coaching, racing weekly at 2018 NSW Sailing Club of the Year. info@huntershillsailingclub.org.au www.huntershillsailingclub.org.au JAZZ BAND Rehearses Monday nights, vacancies available. Jazz, Swing, Blues, Latin, R&B and Funk. davidcbraybrook@bigpond.com 0410 566 953.

KEYSTROKES CHOIR Have you had a stroke/Aphasia and looking for fun ways to improve your speech?

Our choir helps recovery by sharing song. Northside Baptist Church 63 Willoughby Rd, Crows Nest. 1300 650 594 or info@keystrokensw.org.au LANE COVE BOWLING CLUB Play lawn bowls. Social or comp. Fun and exercise. Free coaching.

151 Burns Bay Road. 9428 4325 / 9420 5793 info@lawnbowls.com.au LANE COVE BUSH KIDS Nature activities for 2 to 5 years (term time) and 2 to 10 years (school holidays). www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushkids LANE COVE BUSHLAND & CONSERVATION SOCIETY Lane Cove Tennis Club, top of Kenneth Street, Longueville.

New members very welcome.

Ron, 9427 1125; Helen, 9427 4845.

LANE COVE CHORISTERS Senior ladies' choir welcomes new members. Rehearsals at St. Aidan's Church, Longueville. 0419 680 910.

LANE COVE CONCERT BAND Local, friendly musical organisation.

Six ensembles; beginner to advanced concert bands, two jazz bands and a woodwind ensemble. 0407 124 600 www.lccb.org.au LANE COVE MASTERS SWIMMING Lane Cove Aquatic Centre.

Swimming Coach caters to all levels of swimming LANE COVE MUSIC AND CULTURAL CENTRE Not-for-profit organisation offering music tuition for children and adult learners. Suzuki and traditional methods. 9427 8027 LANE COVE NETBALL CLUB We welcome players from all schools in the Lane Cove area. Giving members access to high quality netball coaches and facilities, fostering positivity + sportsmanship. LC Public School Netball Courts e lanecovenetball@gmail.com w lanecovenetball.com.au LANE COVE RESIDENTS FOR RECONCILIATION (LCRR) Local group of Aboriginal/non-Aboriginal community members working together to advance the process of Reconciliation .

9428 1197 /9 428 120 www.nswreconciliation.org.au LANE COVE UNITING CHURCH Worship in the chapel, cnr Figtree St/ Centennial Ave. Weekly Christian Meditation 9428 2240 or lanecoveuniting@bigpond.com LANE COVE YOUTH ORCHESTRA Calling young musicians to play in a symphony orchestra? Come and try out in our rehearsals.

Scholarships offered. 0411 413 335 mcn114@bigpond.net.au www. lanecoveyouthorchestra.org.au LANE COVE RSL SUB-BRANCH Keep up-to-date with RSL matters, DVA and community services.

9906 5934.

LANE COVE TOASTMASTERS Become a confident public speaker supported by a friendly group.

Meets 23A Stokes Street, Lane Cove.

0403 392 122 www.meetup.com/Speak-LeadInspire-Lane-Cove-Toastmasters/ LANE COVE SUSTAINABILITY ACTION GROUP 9428 3553 0421 442 840.

LANE COVE WEST TENNIS CLUB Courts for hire day or night at Blackman Park, Lloyd Rees Drive.

Amenities and children's playground.

0417 667 020 www.lcwtennis.com.au LAUGHTER MELODY YOGA Join one hour laughter yoga sessions to help you feel good, boost health and happiness. 403 392 122. www.meetup.com/LaughterMelody-Yoga/ LAVOCE, A LANE COVE COMMUNITY CHOIR, is celebrating new members.

With four concerts to go in 2020, readers are invited sing with us each Tuesday. http://lavocelanecove. com/index or adrianlee2@mac.com or 0424507321 LONGUEVILLE ST AIDAN'S ANGLICAN CHURCH Sunday morning services. Friendship Services. Healing services. Youth group. Playgroup for toddlers & carers. Craft Circle. Corner Christina/Arabella St. www.staidans.com.au LOWER NORTH SHORE MULTIPLE

BIRTH ASSOC Volunteer parents of multiples (twins, triplets etc) supporting and assisting other parents. @lnsmba.amba.org.au www.lnsmba.amba.org.au MEALS ON WHEELS HUNTERS HILL Volunteers deliver healthy, affordable meals to client's homes on a daily or weekly basis. 9817 0101 MEETING HOUSE COMMUNITY CENTRE A not-for-profit organisation for all ages; playgroups, Community Café, community garden, yoga, craft, seniors outings and shopping trips.

23a Stokes Street, Lane Cove North, 9427 1841.

MEETING HOUSE KINDERGARTEN Children aged 3 - 5 yrs. Experienced qualified staff offering a preschool program .47 Burns Bay Rd, 9008 5549 www.meetinghouse.org.au MEN'S SHED Looking for new members, drop in for a cuppa & chat.

St Columba Retirement Centre, 15 Figtree St. 10am-3pm. 0428 024 208 lanecove@mensshed.net MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR SENIORS Bringing peace and joy into your life. 178 Longueville Rd. livinginharmony.com.au/meditation 0428 569 373 NORTH SHORE BRAIN TUMOUR SUPPORT GROUP Provides patients and families with education and emotional support. Facilitated by health care professionals. North Shore Private Hospital. snog@snog.org.au / www.snog.org.au NORTH SHORE PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT Information and encouragement for men, family and friends impacted by prostrate cancer.

Normal monthly meetings on hold due to Covid. For friendly discussion or chat, please contact John Fullagar 9498 1984 or john.fullagar@bigpond.com www.northsideforum.org.au OSBORNE PARK TENNIS Play tennis in beautiful bush setting with club house & children’s play area.

Community-run/reasonable rates. oppa.tennis@gmail.com 8003 3316 PROBUS CLUBS Fellowship meetings for retirees.

Guest speakers, excursions, refreshments and lunches.

Judy Carroll President 0414785745 Crows Nest Combined Crows Nest Centre, 2 Ernest Place, 9439 3455 Lane Cove Combined Lane Cove Bowling Club, Burns Bay Road Lane Cove Ladies Lane Cove Library 9427 5891.

Willoughby Combined Chatswood Bowling Club, Gordon Ave, Chatswood 9428 3357.

Hunters Hill Combined Hunters Hill Club at 9.30am, 9816 2374.

Hunters Hill Ladies Probus Club Inc Hunters Hill Club, 12-20 Madeline St 9816 5116.

Waverton Combined Lane Cove Country Club, 180 River Road, Northwood 9955 5126.

ROTARY CLUB OF LANE COVE Lane Cove Golf Club, 180 River Rd. Information 0407 216 552 or www.langecoverotary.org SAHAJA YOGA MEDITATION

Experience meditation and state of thoughtless awareness. Awaken the innate energy inside to experience a sense of inner peace, balance and wellbeing..

0422 798 498.

SHINNYO-EN BUDDHIST TEMPLE 231 Longueville Road, Lane Cove. Details 9418 6688 info@shinnyo.org.au or www.shinnyo.org.au SPIRIT OF LIFE UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre. Inquiries 9599 1180, Sydney Unitarians – Spirit of Life www.sydneyunitarians.org/ THE LOCAL VOCALS’ COMMUNITY CHOIR Performing contemporary and traditional songs, this unique choir will be participating in community events and activities. 0452 006 693 U3A UNIVERSITY OF THIRD AGE Offers an extensive variety of events and intellectually stimulating daytime courses in an informal, friendly atmosphere. Ph 9262 2702 or www.sydneyu3a.org WAIG - WOMEN'S ACTION AND INFO GROUP Stimulating speakers, discussions and book reviews for women. waigwomen@gmail.com facebook.com/ waigwomen/ WOM:NI - WILLOUGHBY OLDER MEN: NEW IDEAS "Meet a friend - Make a friend - Be a friend." For men over 55.

Club Willoughby, Crabbes St, Willoughby Contact: 9417 3715 ZUMBA CLASSES IN LANE COVE Get fit, sweat, make friends and have fun!

Classes suitable for everyone. Dianne on 0406 765 827 www.zumba4u.com.au

VOLUNTEER NOW

Carisbrook Historic House

An interesting way to make a difference www.carisbrookhouse.com/society www.lanecovehistoricalsociety.com.au 0418 276 365

Devonshire Teas Coffee & Cake House Tours

Calm in the courtyard History in the house Weekend 17 & 18 Oct 10am — 4pm www.carisbrookhouse.com

Continued from page 37 >

she turned and saw herself in a nearby mirror. Her reflection snarled like an agitated Doberman. Her shoulders sank. Colour drained from her face. “Me, on the other hand…”

The assistant looked confused.

“Pardon?”

“Sorry, I’ve just had a time of it… at the mall.”

“Not perfect enough huh?” Said the assistant with a smile.

“You can say that again,” said Freya, looking at her reflection. “So many damn mirrors!”

“Hey!” the assistant said, moving in between Freya and the mirror.

“You have to buy this coat.”

A smile returned to Freya’s face.

“You’re right. I’ll take it!”

“I’m Lucy, by the way.”

“Freya.”

Lucy spent some time rummaging for a bag while Freya inspected a nearby jewelry cabinet.

“Twenty bucks thanks,” chirped Lucy.

Freya paid and headed for the door, then stopped and turned.

“Maybe see you around?” She said.

“Sounds good. See ya Freya, take care.”

That night Freya slipped into a most vivid dream.

The bus doors hissed open and Freya climbed aboard to find her fit and healthy father behind the wheel.

“Hi Freya, sorry I’m late.”

“Dad!” The doors slammed shut and the bus lurched off. “Take a seat,” he said.

Without taking her eyes off him, she eased herself down on the front seat.

“Hello Freya,” said a familiar voice beside her. Freya turned to see a version of herself sitting right beside her.

“WHAT THE HELL?” Snapped Freya.

“I’m your reflection, well one of them anyway. A bunch of us had this meeting and we really need to pass on some info.”

“What? We? A bunch? How many of you - of me are there?”

“Let’s just say, one for every time you blink. We’re like projections. We do imprints about the place… and, well - .”

Freya started to cry. “Imprints?

On what?”

Her reflection leaned in, biting her lip. “Pretty much everything and everyone,” she said in a lowered

voice. “We’re constantly bouncing off into infinity, adjusting reality accordingly.”

Her reflection put her arm around Freya who was now sobbing. “It’s gonna be ok,” she said. “Hey, wanna see something cool?” Freya looked up through a shroud of tears. “Your shadow’s missing!”

“Freya hovered her hand over the seat. Sunlight poured into the bus, but there was no sign of a shadow. “Where is it?” she asked.

“Over there, next to your mum.”

Freya turned around to see a black, human-shaped mist, wave enthusiastically at her. Alongside her shadow was Freya’s mother, looking back at Freya with a familiar loving smile.

“MUM!” Freya raced towards her and her shadow jumped up to free the seat.

When Freya hugged her mother, a warm, golden glow filled her body.

“Be kind to yourself, Freya,” her mother whispered. “You did a great job looking after your father. It’s time now to look after you.”

“But I killed him, Mum. I killed him with sadness.”

“FREYA!” Her father called from the front. “It was because of you I lasted as long as I did! Your dedication, your thoughtfulness you kept me going. The doctors were baffled, but they never heard your stories!”

Freya’s shadow began deliriously ringing the bus’s bell.

Freya switched off the alarm and lay still. Her cheeks were wet with tears, but for the first time in years, her mind was silenced. When she stepped out of bed she felt lighter.

Looking in the bathroom mirror, fragments of the bus ride skipped through her mind. She smiled at her reflection. Her reflection smiled back.

One her way to the kitchen she stopped beside her new coat, which was hanging effortlessly on the back of a chair. Slowly she put it on, savouring it’s softness. Freya felt like she was floating. A flood of butterflies had returned. Her smile widened as she put her hands in the pockets and pulled out a note.

A note with a phone number, an ‘L’ and a heart.

end TVO 45

ZUMBA

®

RETURNS Business Trust & SMSF

HG Accounting & Taxation Services 9427 8774 0425 238 510

Zumba® GOLD in Lane Cove

Perfect for active older adults who are looking for a modified Zumba®class at a lowerintensity. Check the class schedule on:

SUITE 4, 98 LONGUEVILLE ROAD

www.zumba4u.com.au or Call Diana 0406765827

www.hgats.com.au

Local Builder Martin Wesley RESIDENTIAL ALTERATIONS, EXTENSIONS, ADDITIONS Over 25yrs reliable service Lane Cove area - Lic No 45821C

PH 0411 856 492

2020 – Lane Cove Music’s 75th Anniversary.

Not much in the way of celebration has eventuated during the year, five of six 2020 concerts programmed had to be cancelled, and the sixth is looking doubtful, we are looking forward to better times in 2021.

The pandemic era has not been wasted – we have set up our very own website: www.lanecovemusic.org.au and we hope to have our 2021 concerts information on the web. soon.

Our email address is: info@lanecovemusic.org.au Rosalie Lucas, Hon. Public Relations Officer, Lane Cove Music.

Stay connected with TVO OBSERVER THE SAILING CLUB WITH A BIG STORY AND BIG AMBITIONS

OBSERVER

BUSHFIRES: SAVING THE SMALLEST THINGS THE LOWDOWN ON HOW TO CELEBRATE SENIORS MONTH

PANDEMICS - WHAT DOES HISTORY TELL US? HOW A PERSIAN POET UNIFIED AUSTRALIAN AND TURKISH CULTURES

Proceeds from The Village Observer support residents in need from Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Ryde, Willoughby and North Sydney areas, through Sydney Community Services.

ISSUE 293 I MARCH 2020 I

thevillageobserver.com.au

Proceeds from The Village Observer support residents in need from Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Ryde, Willoughby and North Sydney areas, through Sydney Community Services.

ISSUE 292 I FEBRUARY 2020 I

thevillageobserver.com.au

TVO lives and breathes community - local people, local stories and local fun!

We’re delighted to have you here with us.

Although TVO won’t be dropped door-to-door from now on, you can still get it posted to you for $2.11 per month.

Please call Sydney Community Services on 02 9427 6425 to add yourself to our postage list.

What’s more, TVO has cast its net wider! You can now pick us up on the first Friday of every month at key locations across Lane Cove (inc LC West and North), Hunters Hill village and peninsula, Boronia Park, Eden Gardens (West Lindfield), Greenwich, Woolwich and now Crows Nest too.

Follow us on our brand new Facebook page: facebook.com/TheVillageObserver (if social media’s your thing) and keep your eyes peeled - we’re tempted to make an appearance on Instagram too.

Warmest wishes, The TVO team 46 TVO

PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH

28 College Rd Sth, Riverview 5 bed 3 bath 3 car

10 Cowper Street, Longueville 5 bed 4 bath 4 car

AUCTION: SAT 17/10 AT 2.15PM ON SITE

AUCTION: SAT 24/10 AT 11.15AM ON SITE

• Show-stopping family oasis of luxurious custom design • Resort style in/outdoor entertaining with heated saltwater pool • Lifestyle perfection close to top schools and Lane Cove village

• Ultra-modern family residence for a great entertainer’s lifestyle • Fresh and breezy design with generous formal/casual living areas • Central courtyard, rear patio, swimming pool, spa plus and garden

Simon Harrison 0433 100 150 E: simon.harrison@belleproperty.com Kim Walters 0499 014 886 E: kim.walters@belleproperty.com

Simon Harrison 0433 100 150 E: simon.harrison@belleproperty.com Kim Walters 0499 014 886 E: kim.walters@belleproperty.com

OPEN: SAT & WED 12.30PM – 1.00PM

OPEN: SAT & WED 2.00PM – 2.30PM

australian boutique network

belle property hunters hill 3/52-56 gladesville road, hunters hill 9817 7729 belle property lane cove 158 longueville road, lane cove 9087 3333

of the year

winner 2013 2014

AUCTION

FOR SALE

9 Delta Road, Lane Cove 5 bed 3 bath 2 car

23 Barwon Road, Lane Cove 3 bed 2 bath 2 car

Situated in one of Lane Cove’s most sought after streets. Within walking distance to the Golf Course, schools and City transport.

A must see for those wanting to down or up size. A picturesque outlook over a sun filled garden on a low maintenance block.

Hazel McNamara 0402 913 537 E: hazelm@lanecove.rh.com.au

Hazel McNamara 0402 913 537 E: hazelm@lanecove.rh.com.au

0402 913 537

I

hazelm@lanecove.rh.com.au

I

www.raineandhorne.com.au

AUCTION: SATURDAY 10 OCTOBER ON SITE 25 Vista Street Greenwich 4 Bed 2 Bath 2 Car DECEASED ESTATE, SAME OWNER SINCE 1961

VIEW: Saturday 10.45am - 11.30am

Wednesday 11.30am - 12.00pm

Located in one of the best streets in Greenwich this desirable property presents spectacular sweeping views of the city skyline and Harbour Bridge from both levels. A solid brick home offers an outstanding opportunity to fully capitalise on its prestigious location, 10 minutes walk to Wollstonecraft station.

Bernadette Hayes 0431 558 505

Vincent McGrath 0438 900 546

02 9966 0543 I 0431 558 505 I sales@harbourline.com.au

E: sales@harbourline.com.au

harbourline.com.au TVO 47

DR. ANDREW SEE Create a beautiful healthy smile with Dr Andrew See, one of Australia’s leading cosmetic and implant dentists.

DR. ANDREW SEE

02 9816 4885 dr.andrewsee advanceddentistrysydney.com.au Create a beautiful healthy smile with Dr Andrew See, one of Australia’s leading cosmetic and implant dentists.

02 9816 4885

dr.andrewsee advanceddentistrysydney.com.au