TVO October 2021

OBSERVER

FREE

COMMUNITY MAGAZINE

home delivered ENJOY

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 307

I

OCTOBER 2021

I thevillageobserver.com.au

TVO 1

Community Transport taking you where you need to go safely and home again

2 TVO

TVO 3

contents 6 News 10 Life’s Rich Pattern

Plant 22 with Rachel

11 Aspects

27 Wellbeing

12 Interview James Lucas

30 Arts

12

14

14 Brightside Lockdowns silver linings

18

30

18 Feature Story Putting the hen in Henley 21 Cook with Bern

32 Backyard ranger For the kids: Sandstone 34 Review 36 Short Story

This month TVO will be delivered door-to-door across the suburbs on the map below, but we are also resuming some of our bulk drops as lockdown lifts. You will also be able to pick TVO up at the following places: Lane Cove’s Canopy and Market Place, Boronia Park’s Harris Farms, Gladesville Shopping Village, Garibaldi Square on the Hunters Hill peninsula, various newsagents and the head office of Sydney Community Services at 1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove.

LANE COVE NORTH LANE COVE WEST

LANE COVE

RIVERVIEW NORTHWOOD

CROWS NEST

GLADESVILLE BORONIA PARK

LONGUEVILLE

HUNTERS HILL

GREENWICH WOOLWICH

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:

We’re GOING PLACES - come with us

Community Transport taking you where you need to go

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

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

THE VILLAGE OBSERVER: 1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove NSW 2066.

PUBLISHER: Gillian Batt P: 02 9427 6425 E: gbatt@sydneycs.org EDITOR: Nicola Riches P: 0405 661 570 E: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au DESIGN + ADVERTISING: Sharon Curby P: 0450 370 575 E: design@thevillageobserver.com.au ADVERTISING: E: advertising@thevillageobserver.com.au PRINTED BY: Spotpress DISTRIBUTED: Monthly The Village Observer is published monthly (except January) by Sydney Community Services (trading as Lane Cove Community Aid Foundation) • Distribution is at the beginning of the month.

• Readers are invited to submit articles for consideration. • Articles and items for community events should be emailed to the Editor with any accompanying images by the 15th of each month, for inclusion in the next month’s issue. • Advertising enquiries should be directed to advertising@thevillageobserver.com.au • If mailing material and you would like it returned, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All care, but no responsibility will be taken for this material. © Copyright 2021. Original advertisements and editorial in this publication are copyright and remain the exclusive property of The Village Observer. No part of this publication may be reproduced and/or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written consent of the Publisher.

DISCLAIMER: The content of editorial and advertisements in The Village Observer has been provided by a number of independent sources. Any opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Editor and Publisher of The Village Observer, and no responsibility is taken for the accuracy of the information, or any factual errors contained within any items printed. Readers should make their own enquiries directly to any organisations or businesses prior to making any plans or taking any action.

hello It’s nice to be back in a month when there is so much excitement and positivity in the air.

This month we’re brimming with great stories. We have an interview with teacher and poet James Lucas, some musings from local comedian Carolyn Swindell, a story about how you can help to raise funds for local women’s refuge Mary’s House, the lowdown on the community garden at Henley (definitely worth a visit or two), plus an amazing travel story from award-winning local writer Marian McGuinness.

Which reminds us - we are always on the hunt for stories - fiction, non-fiction, travel stories and more. Please get in touch here: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au We hear there are new restaurants and clothes shops opening in Lane Cove, Boronia Park and on the Hunters Hill peninsula, so pop in and make the new locals welcome.

Remember to shop local where you can. Our businesses really need the boost right now.

Keep your news, interview recommendations, and support coming. It’s always appreciated.

Nicola and Sharon

• editor@thevillageobserver.com.au • design@thevillageobserver.com.au • advertising@thevillageobserver.com.au

TVO is print, digital and online You can read this whole issue on our website: www.thevillageobserver.com.au Pass on the word to family, friends and neighbours and keep connected to our community from home.

TVO 5

news Charity art show to go ahead at end of October Lane Cove Art Society is finally going ahead with its charity art show on October 30 and 31 after delays caused by the lockdown restrictions.

Entitled 12x10, its is expected that more than 400 original art works, measuring 12” by 10” will go on display, each priced at $100. All of the proceeds from the sale will go to Delvena’s Women’s Refuge and FOKE – Friends of Kolkata Elderly, India.

All works will be sold on a first come first served basis at the weekend event. The Longueville Sporting Club “The Diddy” is the venue for the show and their generous donation of the event room is making the show possible.

All artworks are original creations by many local and non-local artists and award-winning artists who have exhibited in The Archibald and Paddington Art Prize, as well as other prominent exhibitions. The catch is - the artworks will be anonymous to the buyer until they are purchased.

Farewell to the polarising magpie Lane Cove council proceeded with the culling of a notorious and polarising magpie whose swooping led to the injuring of several pedestrians.

On 28 September, the magpie, who lived on Johnston Crescent, was culled in in line with a permit issued

by NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

On the morning of the cull, the bird was seen to be aggressive on several occasions, confirming the behaviour reported by residents in recent years.

It’s thought that the magpie had not been attending a nest. Council is only aware of one magpie that showed aggression in the area and confirmed that while the permit was inclusive of a male and female magpie, it only utilised the permission to cull the aggressive male magpie.

While it was the Council’s preference to relocate the bird, NPWS do not permit the relocation of native birds under the ‘NPWS Policy on Management of Native Birds that Show Aggression to People’, as their research concludes there is a low chance of survival post relocation.

The cull of the bird polarised the community, but the Council seeks to reassure residents that this action was taken as a last resort and will not set a precedent.

6 TVO

Centenary Celebration of Longueville Tennis Club (1921-2021) The Longueville Tennis Club, founded in 1921, was due to celebrate its 100-year history on October 9 2021.

Unfortunately, lockdown restrictions forced the Club to cancel this significant celebration. Planning was well underway for an open community event with local dignitaries, Council staff and a high profile key speaker.

However, the Centenary will not be forgotten. The Club has printed a booklet - the History of the Longueville Tennis Club, which will be available this month, and there will be a display of photos and memorabilia in the Clubhouse once lockdown restrictions are lifted after October 11.

Greenwich Baths Open The gorgeous baths at Greenwich are open for the summer season.

There are still restrictions in place in NSW so operators have kindly asked all patrons to adhere to the below requirements.

Capacity limits are in place. You must check in via the NSW QR code check in system, and you will need to follow the directions of staff throughout your visit.

You may use the baths for outdoor exercise, and additionally those who are vaccinated can now enjoy recreation with some limitations. You may attend the Baths with one other person who lives outside your household if you are not fully vaccinated, or up to five people if you are all fully vaccinated.

1.5m social distancing is required, and you are asked to avoid mingling and wear your mask as required. Do not attend if you are unwell or if you are not permitted to attend under the current health orders.

Can I still sell my home this year?

Yes you can! Although homes are being sold in line with government social distancing restrictions, the selling process has been adapted quickly to allow sellers and buyers to continue transacting.

You can still set up appraisals and meetings with me as I keep a 1.5M distance, wear a mask and of course, am fully vaccinated. However, you can also opt for a video call with me instead.

Having achieved record prices already throughout COVID and having assisted many home owners in preparing their properties for sale, there is still time to sell before the end of the year. Due to low stock and high buyer demand, it’s likely that I could have a buyer for you. If running an auction campaign, auctions at this time are still being held online. This has not deterred buyer’s at all, in fact, we have seen an increase in registrations and bids at the majority of our online auctions.

While a standard settlement is 42 days, you can choose to extend this to a period that suits you and many sellers have done this in the past six months.

If you are thinking of selling, whether now or next year, I am happy to provide you with a list of what needs to be done to prepare your home so that you achieve the best result possible.

www.raineandhorne.com.au

Thinking of Selling?

Call me today on 0402 913 537 hazelm@lns.rh.com.au

Lane Cove Lane Cove North Lane Cove West

Lane Cove North

TVO 7

New tower blocks in the pipeline for Gladesville and Crows Nest Gladesville RSL Community Club has lodged an application, via Geron Property, to build a mid-rise seniors living project at 6-8 Western Crescent.

The 4000sq m proposal, named Altira Gladesville, is for a 10-storey residential tower comprising 34 one-, twoand three-bedroom apartments across the building’s upper levels, a ground floor community centre and four basement levels for 60 parking spaces.

It will be built within the space formerly occupied by Jordan Hall, a former heritage hall that opened in 1938 as an entertainment venue with music and ballroom dancing.

Crows Nest Tower

Adelaide-based architectural company Woods Bagot has lodged an application with North Sydney Council for a 23-storey tower at 378-390 Pacific Highway in Crows Nest.

The block will sit alongside the three tower development that is currently in construction over the forthcoming Crows Nest Metro. That development is also designed by Woods Bagot.

The planning proposal shows that the tower will stand 180 metres high, versus the current site which has a building limit of 16 metres. The tower would house 104 units, while there are no plans for carparking. Residents will be expected to use the adjacent metro station, scheduled to open in 2024.

Gladesville tower

Lane Cove Liberals Delivering Community Facilities Your Liberal Team

West Ward

Central Ward

East Ward

What the Liberals have achieved We delivered the Canopy We delivered the Plaza upgrade.

Mob: 0402 406 241

Scott Bennison

I have been a Councillor on Lane Cove Council since 2008.

When I was Mayor in 2012, I lead the Liberal team in developing the strategy to build the Canopy and upgrade the Plaza.

As a united group, we were able to bring the Canopy, sporting fields at Blackman Park, plaza upgrade and the Waterview Community Centre to fruition.

With conflicting agendas, the Independents, Labor and the Greens have struggled to achieve results for the wider community.

Mob: 0483 233 550

Mob: 0450 288 072

Katherine David Brooks-Horn Mort I have lived in Lane Cove for over ten years and been involved with local schools and community groups over this time.

I am a qualified physiotherapist practising for over 25 years and currently work in small business.

If elected, I will work to build on Lane Cove's strengths, continue to improve infrastructure while maintaining green space, increase support and facilities for the elderly, disabled and young families and advocate for women at all levels of Government.

I have been a Councillor on Lane Cove Council since 2008.

When I was Mayor in 2013, I led the Liberal team in developing strategies to build sporting fields at Blackman Park and the Greenwich shopping precinct.

Our Liberals tickets firmly support community consultation and the right of each resident to have their say.

Independents, Labor and Greens have not demonstrated a proven track record of delivering community facilities.

For united action give our Liberal team your support on December 4

We delivered Sporting fields and amenities at Blackman Park.

We delivered International Women's Day. We delivered the Literary Awards.

We fought against forced amalgamations and won.

We delivered the Food and wine Festival and the Coffee Carnival.

We Deliver, the others talk about it!!

Authorised by Scott Bennison, suite 2, level 3, 71 Longueville Road Lane Cove NSW 2066

8 TVO

We are here to ensure you can get everything you need in a manageable, safe environment.

All cafés and dine in eateries are serving takeaway. Swing by and pick up some delicious snacks and coffees. When picking up takeaway, please help keep the community safe by wearing a mask, check in via QR codes, and adhere to social distancing.

Check out the wide range of newspapers in Office ‘N News Agency

​Also check out their wide range of greeting cards for any occasion and everything related to your post necessities. The friendly team in Office ‘N News Agency will always be ready to help you.

OPERATING HOURS:

• Monday: 9:00am-5:30pm • Wednesday: 9:00am-5:30pm • Friday: 9:00am-6:00pm

• Tuesday: 9:00am-5:30pm • Thursday: 9:00am-7:00pm • Saturday: 9:00am-4:00pm

Bush’s Meats is open every day to provide our Gladesville locals a wide selection of locally sourced meat and poultry.

The passion for fresh and quality meats drives Bush’s Meats every day to cater fo all families. They really do have something for everyone. Choose from the range of beef and pork cuts to chicken and lamb kebabs, not to mention their housemade sausages that are gluten free.

OPENING HOURS: • Monday – Friday 7am - 5:30pm • Sunday • Saturday 7am 5pm 7am- 4pm Emma Grimes, Michael Fitzgerald & Peter Louridas A family business, now in our 48th year in Lane Cove CONVEYANCING | WILLS & ESTATES | COMMERCIAL LEASING COMMERCIAL LAW | DEBT RECOVERY | GENERAL MATTERS

MASTERCLASS

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

Wishbone invites you to an afternoon in the courtyard with friends as you learn the art of candle making and perfumery with Craig Andrade, one of Australia’s leading candle makers: curator and founder of The Raconteur.

4pm Sunday 7th November Tickets strictly limited, grab your ticket online or call us 0450 636 270

www.wishbonesydney.com Garibaldi Village, 37 Alexandra St, Hunters Hill.

Instagram: @wishbone.boutique

(We would like to acknowledge that this advertisement is paid for using money from Hunters Hill Council)

TVO 9

LIFE'S RICH PATTERN

Conspiracy?

What conspiracy?

by Liz Foster

Do you love a juicy conspiracy theory?

From the second shooter on the grassy knoll to Elvis faking his own death (to escape the mafia, in case you’re wondering), conspiracy theories are well and truly gathering momentum.

Stress and the need for certainty are contributing factors.

We’re drowning in a petri dish climate of mistrust way beyond healthy scepticism. Everyone’s just looking for their tribe.

The human habit of seeking confirmation bias is one explanation. It’s our homeo sapien tendency to search for and interpret stuff confirming what we already believe, with an over-reliance on intuitive thinking (aka gut feel).

Who needs a science degree and years of research experience with Google at our fingertips?

Turns out, people will do anything to avoid being proved wrong. We malign or dismiss contrary evidence which in turn helps reinforce our existing beliefs. Who can name any public figures who’ve admitted mistakes? And we all remember that one grumpy great aunt whose middle name was Stubborn.

It’s not all bad news. The Flat Earth Society is growing by leaps and bounds. A survey last year of more than 8,000 American adults confirmed that one in six aren’t certain the world is round. That’s over fifty million people, just in the States. Any direct correlation with Trump supporters is not drawn.

To be clear, a Flat Earther believes the world is not flat exactly, but disc shaped. The Flat Earth Society says it was created ‘to address the many misconceptions a Round Earther may have about the Flat Earth Theory.’

The burden of proof, they say, is on the Spherical World proponents, not Flat Earth theorists.

In the interests of full disclosure, I stand as a fully-fledged, newly anointed Spherical World Proponent, but here’s how it works. A flat earth has the North Pole at its centre which the sun moves around in circles, like a spinning torch. Hence day/night. Antarctica provides a handy ice ring fence round the edge which stops us from falling off, like The Wall in Game of Thrones.

10 TVO

Illustration by Grace Kopsiaftis

Photos from space prove nothing because they’re easy to fake. Reckon you’ve seen earth’s curvature from a plane?

That’s just your confirmation bias at work.

Flat Earthers don’t pretend to have all the answers. They’re just questioning everything. They believe we’re being misled and lied to, that scientists want you to believe that the Earth is round, despite its flatness.

And Flat Earthers are weary. Their beliefs are a not asked-for burden. The truth is out there, as Fox Mulder said.

We could go on forever batting our confirmation biases back and forth, so let’s look at a real-life example. In 1952, the Boston Symphony wanted to diversify their male dominated orchestra, so they ran a series of blind auditions behind a screen. Initial results still skewed heavily male. Second time around, same candidates, and almost 50% of the women made it through. The difference? They took off their shoes. The sound of the women’s heels was unknowingly influencing the adjudicators.

International Flat Earth conferences are a magnet for like-minded people to enjoy presentations such as Space is Fake and Testing The Moon: A Globe Lie Perspective.

There’s plenty to chat about as it’s also an assembly of anti-vaxxers, 9/11 truthers and Illuminati subscribers. The conference is a safe space to gather without fear of being ostracised.

Good luck to them, I say. Conspiracy theories aside, they’ve found their tribe. Something we all aspire to.

Liz Foster is a local writer and author. You can find more Life’s Rich Pattern features and more at

www.lizfosterwriter.com

ASPECTS

When: lockdown

Where: Rooke Lane, Hunters Hill

What: Jenny Gillespie, resident of Rooke Lane, found herself staring at a dull grey fence that separated her home from her neighbour’s. To keep herself occupied in lockdown she decided to brighten up the fence with this lovely hand painted mural. Many of Jenny’s neighbours and friends got in touch to tell us about her project. Turns out she is well known in the community for lots of things, so stay tuned for an interview with Jenny next month.

TVO 11

MEET OUR LOCALS

interview: James Lucas James Lucas is a local resident, English Teacher at Sydney Grammar and has just put the finishing touches to his first poetry collection, ‘Rare Bird’, published by Recent Work Press.

 Can you tell us about Rare Bird?

Rare Bird was published in March this year by Recent Work Press. Most of the poems were written over the past six years, though there are a few much earlier poems I still like, even though a very different person wrote them. They are about art, parenthood, jazz, cricket, places I’ve visited, Sydney, the natural world, cross-country skiing, mortality, all sorts of things. Some of the poems rhyme. It was reviewed in the August Australian Book Review.  Have you always written poetry?

I dabbled in poetry as a teenager, and from my late-twenties pursued it more seriously. At that point I had begun reading a lot more poetry, which is the key if you want to produce work that might hold interest for others. I published a few poems in journals, but then had a hiatus of about ten years until I had three months long service leave around 2014, when I got back into it. I’ve been writing regularly since then, but most gets done in school holidays. Usually it takes many months and drafts until I’m satisfied with a poem.  You teach at Sydney Grammar.

Tell us about your education/work background...

I did half a law degree when I left school, dropped out, and returned to an Arts degree, majoring in English, some years later. I decided that was what I was passionate about, so something would work out job-wise.

12 TVO

By the time I was finishing the PhD I had come to realise I had no future as a university English academic, partly because the insecurity of work in that sector was already very apparent. I’d enjoyed teaching friends to rock climb, and thought I would enjoy high school teaching. I loved the classroom straight away. I get to discuss great literature with interesting colleagues and students who are often more idealistic than adults.  Is English taught differently now to how we might remember when we were young?

Students study a much wider variety of texts these days, non-fiction and films for instance, and also learn to write in a wider variety of forms, beyond traditional essays and short stories.

What hasn’t changed, I think, is that young people of all abilities want to be exposed to great literature, and are not put off by it being challenging.

Teenagers don’t want to be patronised with pedestrian young adult fiction that someone has decided is more relevant to them.  Are there particular poets you admire?

I don’t like poems that tell me something I already know or immediately agree with. I like poems that intrigue me, that demand to be reread, poems with inventive imagery, or compelling sound patterns. A poem is an experience, not a meaning. Most of the poets I like best do interesting

things with poetic form: W H Auden, Don Paterson, Michael Donaghy, Emily Dickinson, Shakespeare.  You have been a Lane Cove resident for 15 years. Where were you born, and why Lane Cove?

I grew up in Woollahra, and later lived in the inner city and inner west. My wife and I had been keen bushwalkers and moved to Lane Cove because we wanted good access to green space for our young family. I love that we are only half an hour to the CBD, that easy freeway access gets us away on holidays fast, the variety of places to eat, the bookshops, the library and pool, the unpretentious feel of this area. And most of all I love living right next to bushland with an amazing variety of birds.  Can you recommend some more recent Australian authors we should read?

Judith Beveridge, Sarah Holland-Batt, Anthony Lawrence, Damen O’Brien, Jakob Ziguras.  How do we find and purchase your collection?

Burns Bay Bookery stock it, as do Gleebooks. It is readily available through the website of Recent Work Press. The easiest way to buy poetry books is usually online from the publisher.

EXCERPTS FROM RARE BIRD

Tomorrow

I’m here. It’s just a dream. And it can’t hurt I tell you, shaken dreamer in the night.

I don’t explain the things I would avert are deaf to words and unafraid of light, the keening drone, prayerfully severed head, and ribs cracked in the crush for blockade crumbs.

Things you don’t see before you go to bed.

The globe you see is marked with grubby thumbs (it’s not a toy don’t spin) clear oceans, continents.

Viewed from astride our cushion elephants we can agree that animals are friends and find their actual imagined lands and pore over the globe you can’t help spin and watch tomorrow and tomorrow striding in.

The Garden

Usually it takes many months and drafts until I’m satisfied with a poem.

With threaded beads of rain the spiderwebs raise arch on vaulted arch of eyebrow studs (say ‘garland fairy lights’ to please the mob), the micro-metallurgist at each hub extruding a St Andrew’s cross long-limbed awaiting prey vibration of its net, the planes at angles variously trimmed and layered for a polaroid effect of integrated air traffic control.

Their tick-plump cousins fatten in the eaves on flies tucked into cotton cobweb folds old gauze unravelled like a bandage sleeve, unsightly yes but what annoys the eye fly-proofs the house. Unless I am the fly.

Reach beyond the local market From our office in the heart of Lane Cove we can reach beyond the local market to match your property with premium buyers.

Our five offices all contribute to a shared database containing more than 45,000 genuine buyers right across Sydney’s Inner West and Lower North Shore.

Start a conversation with CobdenHayson today.

Debbie Jepson debbie@ch.com.au 0420 455 441 Robyn Mannix robyn@ch.com.au 0418 240 569

9427 7466 | ch.com.au

TVO 13

BRIGHTSIDE

Lockdown’s silver linings Right now, it’s heads down, teeth gritted and tunnel vision to the end.

But Carolyn Swindell has been granted a brief license to bob her head up, stare off out into the future and report back about what we might miss about lockdown 2021.

Spoonville

L

Home hair-dyeing

et me preface these remarks by

The weather is definitely helping to cast reassuring you that I like a good moan things in a better light. Yes, there’s hay-fever, my inner poet as much as the next middle-aged but there’s also enough colour bursting appears to be white woman (possibly more). Soon the in the gardens to inspire our inner poets. days we’ve endured in lockdown will tick I’ve tried, and my inner poet appears to more inclined to over into triple digits and it’s important be more inclined to dirty limericks than dirty limericks we don’t try to just pretend everything’s Shakespearean sonnets, but my Instagram been a bed of roses this year. Or last year. is over-run with locked-down Sydneysiders Right now, for instance, I’m barricaded in my sharing the beauty of new blossoms and bees home-office, pretending to work but really just in action. Handy tip: in Japan, cherry blossom hiding while I hear my husband battling our eightseason is enjoyed in a particularly civilised custom year-old over today’s home learning (that bit’s just between called Hanami which basically involves spreading blue you and me, ok?). tarps out under the blooming trees and drinking copious Yes, it will be good when all this Covid-nonsense has amounts of alcohol as you gaze at the beauty. Personally been said and done.

I love broadening my children’s understanding of other But, look, at risk of being a Lower North Shore Pollycultures, so we’ve taken enthusiastically to Hanami in our Anna and further annoying people whose tempers are front-yard. already fraying, I’m putting my hand up to say that We used to sit in the backyard to avoid the passing there are parts of lockdown that I might mourn when parade. After all, we saw more than enough people each they’re gone. day to need to seek out small talk. But that was BEFORE. 14 TVO

With husband Pete

Now we prop ourselves over the front gate like a scene from The Sullivans (if you don’t know what The Sullivans was, find someone over 45 and ask them to regale you with tales about the good old days when there were only FOUR television channels and you just watched whatever was on at the time – how’s that to make you think lockdown in 2021 could be worse?) and talk to anyone walking past.

Anyone. About anything. Neighbourhood gossip is leaping off the pages of Facebook and back onto the streets where it belongs.

We know our neighbourhoods. We certainly know what’s 5.1kms from our homes. We can identify the local government boundaries of the municipality we’ve lived in for more than a decade. We can finally match the sullen teenagers we used to see chugging cans of Coke Zero at the bus-stop before school with their parents. They’re out walking. And in some cases, talking. And even laughing.

Ok, there’s more dog poo on our lawns. Because everyone who decided to enter the world of dog ownership in the post-Covid world is still the same person they were before.

And for some, that person is someone who doesn’t think it’s their job to pick up after their own dog. No, that’s not ideal, but we can’t blame that on lockdown. A jerk’s a jerk in any century.

Do I even own an iron anymore? My car looks like it’s been abandoned, it gets so little use. Better than a trip to Taronga Zoo, each day I can show the kids nesting spiders and an educational study on of local birds’ digestive habits on the windscreen. Unlike Taronga there’s no red panda in residence, but surely it’s just a matter of time before my driveway zoo proliferates.

And time is something we’ve got plenty of right now.

Time to do jigsaw puzzles. Time to fully embrace the crushingly-disappointing realisation that after those hundreds of frustrating hours of carefully placing puzzle pieces, you’ve just ended up with the same picture that was on the box all along. Time to pass that puzzle on to your neighbours in the guise of a good deed.

Definitely time to reflect on the profound appreciation we should all have for the work of professional educators.

I’ll miss cooking over Zoom at 4pm on Saturdays. A friend who I can’t see (although our 5km zones do overlap in the middle of a bay in the Inner West, we’ve not yet pulled out the kayaks and paddled towards one another like a maritime Heathcliff and Cathy) has pulled together a group – nine of us from across Sydney, most of whom had never met before lockdown – and she emails us a recipe and a

A no surprise jigsaw

The 5k radius venn diagram

The shores of Parramatta River

shopping list and we cook together each week. There is chopping of garlic and frying of onion and drinking of wine and talking about everything except Covid case numbers.

Or Covid anything. It’s a virtual oasis and genuine belly laughs that remind me of life before.

And life after.

Someone dropped a Corona beer on our doorstep with a roll of toilet-paper and a note that encouraged us to keep going. An anonymous spirit-lifter from a neighbour.

My neighbours loom larger in my life now. We talk more often, we try to do nice things for each other and each other’s kids. Cakes get baked, flowers from gardens get left on doorsteps, we slow in the street and when we ask, “how are you?” through our masks, we’re genuinely asking. We’re worried for one another and circling the metaphorical wagons.

I’ll certainly miss that if it ends with lockdown.

But I suspect it won’t. I suspect that in many small ways, we’ll be changed forever by this lockdown. Some things will pass. I probably will have to learn how to use the iron again. And wear proper shoes. And put on make-up.

But with the end looking like it’s not too far away now, let’s try to focus on the things we’ve appreciated about one another these past ten thousand weeks and hang onto them when we’re back in the big, wide world.

I’m Mrs Brightside (Ms Brightside actually, but the poet in me just knows that doesn’t have the same cadence).

TVO 15

Pick up the challenge and take steps for Mary’s House

Join us in saying NO to domestic violence in our community WORDS RITA HELVADJIAN

I

t is amazing what a few dedicated, concerned, compassionate people can accomplish. It was such a group of people, who, identifying a gap in existing services for families impacted by domestic and family violence in Crows Nest and the Lower North Shore, formed Mary’s House Services back in 2015. With the support of volunteers and local business a newly vacant church property underwent a significant renovation to establish a refuge accommodation service for women and their children. It has provided support for women and children of all backgrounds ever since.

The work of the refuge was expanded upon only last year with the establishment of the Daisy Centre, a specialised and integrated support service that provides professional and individually tailored case management for women wherever they are on their journey to independence, freedom and recovery.

The Daisy Centre’s opening coincided with the pandemic and the terrible rise in the number of women seeking help.

Claire Barber, CEO of Mary’s House Services explains, “NSW recorded 416 incidents of domestic violence in the Neutral Bay area and its surrounding LGAs over the last 12 months. During this time, we received over 50 referrals for our service from these areas.

“These statistics don’t reflect incidents of coercive control, financial and emotional abuse, which are often prevalent in these areas too.

“A recent report revealed that 10% of Australian women in relationships experienced domestic violence since the start of the coronavirus crisis and found that most of these women said that it had either started or escalated during the pandemic.

“We know that we are meeting a community need,” she adds.

16 TVO

As an independent local charity, MHS relies on the support of the local community, its supporters, local businesses, and fundraising events to raise the muchneeded funds to provide these important services. Its main fundraiser is ‘Mary’s Walk’, held annually in October.

However, due to lockdown restrictions Mary’s Walk will not go ahead as planned this year. Instead, MHS is asking the community to take part in a ‘Step Challenge’ this month.

“We are inviting the community to join us and walk in the shoes of women impacted by domestic violence and commit to a challenge of ‘steps’,” says Jacquie Murry, Fundraising Officer. “Let women and children who experience domestic violence know that they are not walking alone and that this community joins together to say no to domestic violence and abuse.”

The Step Challenge fundraiser is designed to help fill gaps in services provided for vulnerable women and children, as Claire explains, “We are working hard to find new ways to make our services accessible, and to make sure we are as responsive as possible. We know that when a woman reaches out for help, it may be the last or only opportunity she has to do so.

“There is comfort to be found in knowing that we are making a difference in people’s lives. Experiencing the kindness and generosity of our donors and supporters is a lovely reminder of the goodness in humanity and gives us all a sense of hope. Mary’s House Services wouldn’t exist without the ongoing support of our wonderful local community.”

HOW CAN YOU HELP?

• DONATE via – www.maryshouse.org.au/donate-now • VOLUNTEER: Any time or skill is appreciated.

Contact Sahar Zaidi, Operations Manager on info@maryshouse.org.au • PICK UP THE CHALLENGE and do the ‘Step Walk’ in October by registering your interest via the website: www.mycause.com.au/events/maryshousewalk and start to recruit your family and friends.

(MHS was formerly North Shore Women’s Benevolent Association Ltd)

My bags are almost packed …..

Muscle memory is a fabulous beast. Why? Well as the vaccination rates continue upwards, matched by a corresponding optimism in travel and increased bookings, I’m grateful that my overtaxed-by-cancellations brain has been able to switch back so quickly into gear.

By Adrienne Witteman.

F

or travel is HOT HOT HOT now.

Freedom beckons and after almost two years pretty much stuck at home, or at most enjoying a little jaunt or two interstate, many have moved past simply hankering for an international trip to anywhere and now have their flights booked and paid for, their cruises deposited, restaurants and events planned, and more.

However, it is clear that Australia is fairly evenly divided into those who support opening up at 80%, and those who don’t. Somewhere in the middle is a group betwixt the two schools of thought. It’s fair to say that the hesitant would still prefer to travel in Australia for the time being.

And some are simply telling me that they just feel past dealing with all the palaver they perceive will be necessary to travel overseas. QR codes ad nauseam, PCR codes, masks, the fear of getting sick and stuck and so on. It is completely understandable after all we’ve been through.

Meanwhile, there are those desperate to get back on a cruise ship, given over a million people have now cruised safely since mid-2020. The protocols are working and with the requirement for double vaccination made mandatory by the cruise lines you’re

more at risk from Covid wandering around a Sydney supermarket, than sailing the ocean.

Almost all international cruise lines have cancelled their Australia/New Zealand season but there is one company that has hung in, committed to being here when Australia opens to cruise travel. That company is Silversea.

Several months back I wrote about its Australia/New Zealand programme and how Trendsetter had secured group space on the January 2022 cruise. In recent developments, due to the Delta outbreak and the cessation of a travel bubble between the two countries, Silversea recognised it would need to pivot to 100% domestic Australian cruising. And that is what we have done with our group cruise.

Accordingly, we’re now getting on board in Melbourne and sailing a captivating and visually stunning route back to Sydney via South Australia, Victoria and Tasmania. I can’t wait. I am savouring the thought of freshly shucked Coffin Bay oysters at Port Lincoln as I write, imagining the stunning landscapes of Kangaroo Island, and the south coast backdrop to Eden. With overnight stops in

Adelaide and Hobart, I’ll be able to catch up with family for a reunion dinner ashore.

I’m looking forward to travelling freely around our beautiful coast. I’ve done it several times before but that doesn’t dim the magic. Cliffs golden in the sunset, wheeling seabirds and distant mountains almost mirage like in the dawn mist.

And in inimitable Silversea style, I’m looking forward to a bit of affordable luxury. I’ve spent nothing on travel in the last 18 months so I figure my budget can take a little hit. Choosing nightly which of the 8 restaurants I’ll dine in, which of the 80+ complimentary wines takes my fancy, enjoying a complimentary champers as I step back on board after time ashore, delving into the library of great books, making use of the gym (mmm, perhaps …), relaxing poolside, learning from excellent guest speakers. Oh I just cannot wait!

You’re most welcome to join me. Why not? We depart early January 2022 and Trendsetter is even adding a complimentary 5 star hotel stay in Melbourne.

Here’s the itinerary if you’d like to know more: https://bit.ly/3zSJ3MN

3 NORTHWOOD ROAD, LONGUEVILLE

9428 5900

www.trendsettertravel.com.au We are currently open reduced hours.

Please email or call prior to visiting our store.

TVO 17

FEATURE STORY

Putting the hen in Henley The story of the Happy Hens social enterprise that has turned a Henley bowling green into so much more than a city garden.

WORDS NICOLA RICHES

S

It stands in stark contrast to the bustling city that surrounds it

18 TVO

itting in the space between Victoria Road and the Parramatta River at Henley is a pocket of civic amenity. At the heart, the Community Centre with bowling greens and an unrivalled view of the city skyline, and just close by Gladesville Reserve; the non-profit, State-funded Riverside Pre-School and the buildings that house the local community radio station 2RRR. Walking around it you get a simultaneous sense of nostalgia for a time when places like these were abundant, and what is possible what our city future could look like if places like these were restored in every suburb.

Nestled among this is the Henley Green Community Garden, run by the Happy Hens Social Enterprise.

Worn pathways circle vegepods, skirt alongside vegetable and herb beds, and lead you to old greenkeeper sheds that have been spruced up with recycled materials. A succulent garden, wooden tables to gather at least 30 people under umbrellas, chicken coops for the real Happy Hens of the garden and bursts of colour at every turn, it stands in stark contrast to the bustling city that surrounds it – just like urban farms across the world.

Henley Green Community Garden was inspired by city farms such as Mudchute that

?????????

Founders and core team

Henley was

The site fit the bill in myriad ways: opened in London in 1977 when the not this trio’s accessible by bus, ferry and car; urban sprawl intensified and denied first rodeo centrally located for city and regional residents access to greenery. As Sydney access; existing, practical infrastructure expanded, blueprints such as Mudchute and little requirement for a substantial became a good reference point and Happy financial injection to get the plants and veg Hens founders Helen Kirkman, Emma off the ground.

Paxton and Nicole Miranda could see how

“We received funding from Hunters their application could benefit those in Henley, Hill Council in 2018 to buy materials for raised Gladesville, Hunters Hill and beyond. garden beds,” explains Emma. “We collected large pieces The Happy Hens met when their children attended of cardboard. We arranged delivery of woodchip mulch Gladesville Public School. Helen and Nicole shared a from local arborists happy to deposit their load for free. mutual love for gardening and permaculture, while Emma, We gathered coffee grounds and husks from local cafes who jokes that growing plants doesn’t come quite as easy and pony poo from Randwick Racecourse to mix with the to her, was happy to literally lend a hand to her friends composting woodchips.” with physical labour. Turns out she’s also a dab hand at Foraging, reusing, repurposing, renovating, collecting administration, accounts and grant applications. Henley – it all stands at the heart of the Happy Hens mission, and was not this trio’s first rodeo. with this comes a purpose to give back.

“We began the Bedlam Bay Community Garden in June Members, of which there are currently around 50 2017 with land assistance from National Parks and Wildlife paid (membership only costs $60 per year to mainly cover and financial support from Hunters Hill Council,” explains insurance), share the duties of working on the garden, Emma. “With hard work from the core group, plus weekend which then gives them a share in the harvest. Visitors are working bees with community, the garden thrived for all to welcome to take a leaf or two, or some herbs for a meal. enjoy.”

If excess produce is available, the Enterprise approaches However, before too long the community and core group locals in need to see if they would like it. The Enterprise realised that Bedlam was not big enough for the needs of gives back to the community in other countless ways too. local residents. At that time, Happy Hens comprised many The Coffee Project began in August 2020 inspired by willing community members, but with a small space that two local teenagers, Huon and Emily. Due to COVID-19 could only operate on Friday morning, there was no scope restrictions they were doing Uni online from home and for full participation. felt socially isolated. Huon’s passion for coffee and Emily’ As local residents themselves, Emma, Helen and Nicole desire to learn barista skills sparked the idea for The Happy knew about the bowling greens and the bigger space at Hens’ Coffee Project. The Happy Hens sponsored them to Henley Community Centre and started to visualise how attend professional training by Seven Miles Coffee and they could put the hen in Henley. now they volunteer their time to provide excellent coffee to Early rough sketches of their plans included not just an all who visit Helen Green Community Garden – everyone orchard and kitchen garden, but other initiatives such as is welcome to purchase fantastic barista coffee and enjoy a café/place for coffee, a centre for restaurants and cafes the garden space. Coffee is available between 8:00am to to recycle food waste and coffee grounds, markets and midday every Friday morning. exhibitions, sustainability workshops, intergenerational Then there has been the launch of the Henley social events, community group support and more.

TVO 19

Growers Market that goes beyond a market to include a community engagement program. For example, musicians from Riverside High School performed at the event and Gladesville Public School used it to sell their Cookbook ‘2111’. The Hunters Hill Historical Society uses it as a place for meetings, and it was also the location earlier this year for the first intergenerational event in the suburb when a seniors’ group from Sydney Community Services came to meet some of the kids from Riverside pre-school and show them some decades-old artefacts that are commonly out of use these days.

The Happy Hens are keen to highlight how the word ‘happy’ wasn’t chosen haphazardly. A commitment to improving people’s mental health is very much part of the garden’s purpose. A tie-up with the Black Dog Institute is coming down the line, as are plans for ‘R U OK?’ day.

The produce and the visual aesthetic alone can help lift people’s spirits. Even a Happy Hens update from December last year is tribute to the positivity and delight that comes from the garden: “Okra, yacon, artichoke, Jerusalem

artichoke, basil, chives and little capsicums are thriving, tomato plants are growing rapidly, and we are currently harvesting the yummy strawberries in rows. The corn and zucchini have produced abundant crops,” it said.

It is certainly a different picture to the sterile aisle of fruit and veg in the local supermarket. Take this for potato news: “The seed potatoes have been super successful. Each kilo we planted produced over 6kg. We now know purple congo is very starchy, red norland and brake light were firm and tasty, spunta/nadine/pink-eye were tender, and royal blue was our favourite!” How many of us even knew that purple congo was a type of potato?

If you’re intrigued to know more about potatoes (we certainly were!), or you’re keen to sip a cup of the finest coffee with a view of Sydney to die for, or if you feel like giving some of your time to become a member or volunteer (we’re told members can take home quite a bit of produce…), then perhaps pop along to the Henley Community Garden for their summer market on Sunday 5th December from 9:00am to 1:00pm.

ONE OF THE HAPPY HENS MANTRAS IS:

“We hope to help make Gladesville, Hunters Hill, Ryde, and beyond, engaging, enjoyable and sustainable places to live, especially in our beautiful outdoor public spaces.”

Pop along and see for yourself what makes this place so very special.

20 TVO

cook

With Bern the Chef bernthechef.com.au Bern the Chef is a local caterer who has been in the Lane Cove area for over 15 years. She has worked in many corporate catering positions as well as operating a small business. Bern loves catering and the freedom that clients give her to do what she does best. Cooking is her forte and Bern loves the classics as well as keeping up to date with the latest food trends. www.bernthechef.com.au

We are finally out and about - on picnic rugs with our gingham-lined wicker baskets and our newly-acquired puppies, carrying Tupperware filled with treats.

There’s nothing

Autumn bliss

quite like walking into a warm home with aromas Picnics are great, but there canabe muchdinner. more to With more time spent inside, the change of of baked puddings and roast a picnic than sandwiches, quiches and cakes. season provides the perfect excuse to try new recipes. BY BERNADETTE KENNEALY.

Chicken Waldorf Salad

Cooking is great for so many reasons, whether it be therapy; to crack open that great red wine; or to grab a bunch of friends on a weekend afternoon for nourishment, a laugh and a bowl of comfort.

Walking past the butcher’s daily offerings, are there meat cuts you wish you knew how to use? Perhaps skirt steak, pork cheeks or chicken Maryland? Pork cheeks are one of my favourites and my ears prick up every time I hear of a new recipe.

The version below would be delicious with rice noodles and broth and is best made the morning of, or even the day before.

Mandarin and Ginger Pork Cheeks • Oil for frying • 3 onions, finely chopped • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped

INGREDIENTS • 2plain carrots, roughly chopped.

• 6 tablespoons mayonnaise (or yogurt) • 1 tablespoon lemon juice • 6 pork cheeks - approx 1 kilo • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt (or substitute with beef cheeks) • Pinch freshly ground black pepper • 2 inches ginger, peel and slice • 2 sweet apples, cored and chopped • 1/2 cup soyraisins sauce • 1 cup seedless red grapes, halved, or light 1/4 cup • 1 cup thinly sliced celery • 500mls chicken stock • 2 cups of chopped BBQ chicken • 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine • 1/2 cup chopped, slightly toasted walnuts • 3 pieces dried mandarin peel • Lettuce (Asian grocer) METHOD • 2 whole star anise - In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or • 2 dried red chillies (or to taste) yoghurt), lemon juice & seasoning.

- Add the apples, grapes, celery, chicken & sticks walnuts.

• 2 cinnamon Mix well to coat all the ingredients. check for • 1 tspnTaste whitetopeppercorns seasoning. Spoon onto fresh lettuce leaves or use as a filling in a crusty roll or wrap. • 2 tblspn dark soy sauce • 2 tblspn brown sugar - The ingredient list can be altered so many ways.

- Imagine changing the apple for mango, the whole walnuts for • 6 mandarins, cashews & adding a little honey & ginger to the dressing for a summer hit.

-Sauté Dream up peaches withbased pecans add basil along with onions in a heavy pot& with oil for 4-5 minutes some balsamic through the dressing for a lazy sunset until translucent. Add the trimmed pork cheeks and brown supper.

The only is your imagination. on each side.

Add limit the ginger, carrot and aromatic spices and

enjoy

cook stirring for another 3 minutes until the whole pot is fragrant. Add the stock and Shaoxing wine, transfer into an oven dish, cover and slow cook on 140 degrees for 2 hours.

Add the whole mandarins, the dark soy and brown sugar, cover, continue to cook for another 30 minutes (a slow

Stunning price.

Chicken Maryland with Bacon and Polenta Beautiful home.

• Spice rub Northcott • 1 tblspnGardens’ sea salt village heart of smartly refurbished retirement units embraces a • 1 tblspn smoked paprika central garden-scape of manicured hedges, • 1 tblspn ground cumin shady trees, and lush lawns that the • 4 springsof fresh thyme leaves community residents enjoy every day.

• 1 tspn dry mustard powder Situated at 92 Burns Bay Road, Northcott • 1 tspn ground white pepper Gardens perfectly positions you 450m from Lane Cove’s shopping hub, with your city bus stop a 50m stroll. All this from $200,000*.

Any meat cooked on the bone has more flavour. Although it does take longer to cook,on the 0416 flavour187 intensity worth it!

Call Janne Scott 324isor

9299 findonyour special place atone Maryland This 3951 recipe istobased feeding 6 people.

Work on per person,Gardens. skin on.

Northcott Or discover all four Vasey Communities.

Mix all spice ingredients together in a bowl. Slash the chicken legs, place a couple of slashes on the thigh and then Epping Hillall the Lane Cove Maroubra rub theHunters spices into nooks and crannies.

Place onto a tray in a single layer and refrigerate for a couple of hours.

Add a couple of wedge cut Spanish onions, 4 smashed whole garlic cloves, 1 punnet of cherry tomatoes (whole), and one orange cut into quarters. Drizzle with olive oil and place into a medium hot oven (160 degrees).

Roast for 30 to 40 minutes. vasey.com.au As that is roasting, sauté a couple of chopped bacon rashers in a heavy based pot. Add 2 cups of polenta and 1 litre *Price correct as at September 2021. J006224 of chicken stock, working quickly until a soft porridge consistency. Turn the heat off and cover. Leave for 5 minutes TVO chopped 21 to absorb and soften, add 100gms butter, freshly parsley and 100gms cheddar cheese.

plant

WITH RACHEL GLEESON

www.ivyalley.com.au

Step 1 Strip the light fitting of all electrical wire with tin snips.

Remove light bulbs and plastic casing (some light fittings will let you unscrew these, however others are a little trickier and you will have to cut them out using tin snips). Leave any protruding screws coming from where the light bulb used to sit, as it will be needed to hold your moss ball in place.

Upcycled chandelier

Looking for a project that will cost little and add a lots of drama or sophistiction to your home, garden or balcony? Why not try repurposing an old chandelier with plants, to make a stunning living feature!

Old light fittings can be picked up for a song from second hand building suppliers, auction houses or online.

Tools - tin snips/metal cutter - screw driver Materials - sphagnum moss - string - plants x number of arms on light fitting Choosing your plants - Shade tolerant scultptural plants such as ‘birds nest’ ferns (asplenium australasicum) pictured, are a good choice and readily available at most nurseries. Cascading plants such as rhipsalis varieties or ‘devils ivy’ (Epipremnum aureum) also look fantastc.

- Choose the appropriate size depending on the size of your chandelier and your budget!

happy gardening 22 TVO

Step 2 making kokedama balls (Japanese for “moss”) If you have purchased dry sphagnum moss place in a bucket and add enough water to saturate. Squeeze out excess water and place on a flat surface.

Remove plant from its pot and tease out any loose soil & trim roots. Place plant on top of the moss and squeeze it around the plant with your hands in the shape of a ball. Start wrapping the ball with string in random directions squeezing as you go (this is rather awkward at first!). Keep stringing and adding more sphagnum moss and shape the ball with your hands and firming it up as you go.

Repeat this process until the desired size is reached and the string has firmly covered the whole ball (including around the base of the plant). Once you have made up the required amount of moss balls, follow the watering instructions below.

Step 3 attaching kokedama balls Using a screwdriver carefully make a hole in the base of the ball and enlarge to the size of the socket that held the original light bulbs. Place your thumb through the hole and make enough space so it can be inserted over the socket by turning firmly until in position. Its now finished and ready to hang!

Watering and care Watering your chandelier- you will find that kokedama balls dry out rather quickly and are difficult to water. The easiest way to keep them hydrated and healthy is to keep in an area with shade or indirect light.

Remove balls once or twice a week and soak them in a bucket for around half an hour (this will allow the moisture to penetrate right through the ball. Add a little liquid fertiliser to the water every couple of months.

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

Tune In to your Mental Health This October we’re being encouraged to think about our mental health and wellbeing, to reflect on the importance of good mental health and to tune in to the help that others may need.

‘Tuning In’ means being present, being aware of what’s happening within you and in the world around you.

Tune In to your senses What can you sense right now?

What can you feel?

Tune In to your communities What’s happening that you can be part of, or that you can help others be part of?

Tune In to stigma How do attitudes and understandings of mental health and wellbeing impact people’s ability to live the lives they want?

Taking a moment to Tune In

This can help still and focus your mind, it can help you understand what’s going on for you and others.

Tuning in can help you find a new perspective, and it can help you reflect and be present.

Tuning in has been shown to help build selfawareness, help make effective choices, reduce the impact of worry, and build positive connections.

Tuning in to communities and the impact of mental health stigma can help ensure that people who need support have safe places to talk about their experiences and reach out.

To help support more positive mental wellbeing in our community, Lane Cove Council has organised a range of online events over the coming month.

TVO 23

>

• Small Business Breakfast: Mental Health is Everybody’s Business Wednesday 13 October, 7:30am – 9:00am

Join other businesses in Lane Cove and hear the Black Dog Institute discuss how you can help yourself, your staff and your community by better understanding mental health.

•C arer Gateway Information Webinar Thursday 14 October, 2:00pm 3:00pm

An opportunity to hear about the Carer Gateway, a free Commonwealth Government initiative supporting carers who look after someone with a disability, mental health condition, medical condition which may also be terminal or someone who is frail aged.

•M ood and Food Cook Along Friday 15 October, 10:00am – 11:00am

Join Tatiana Bedikian from Body Fusion as she guides you through this hands-on cooking class in your home.

•L aughter for Mental Wealth Tuesday 19 October, 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Australia’s Leading Laughter Expert Merv Neal will run a free online Laughter Session. ositive Life Talk •P Wednesday 20 October, 12:00pm – 1:00pm

Come along and hear Natasha Lo from Positive Life NSW talk about her story of resilience and tips on staying positive when it feels like your life is upside down.

Confident and articulate, Natasha writes on HIV and transgender issues and is visibly active in the community.

• Self-Care for Teens during the pandemic Thursday 21 October, 4:00pm - 5:00pm

We are frequently reminded of all the things we need to do to stay safe during this pandemic. This one-hour webinar with Clinical Psychologist Ros Knight, will help young people and their parents to identify any signs and provide practical strategies to help improve mental wellbeing. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions anonymously. Booking link via: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events •A Night with the Blokes Tuesday 26 October, 6:00pm - 8:00pm

Let’s get together, virtually, to have a casual and honest conversation exploring what it means to be a man today and what it will mean tomorrow.

Come along, have some laughs, and get some practical tools to go beyond the banter with your mates and loved ones.

To find out more or to book your place at one of these events, visit www. lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ events

Lane Cove’s

Small Business Breakfast Presented in partnership with Black Dog Institute

24 TVO

MENTAL HEALTH INFORMATION AND RESOURCES If you’re looking for more information about Mental Health Month you may like to visit the Way Ahead website: www.mentalhealthmonth.wayahead. org.au

OTHER SUPPORT OPTIONS INCLUDE: Beyond Blue www.beyondblue.org.au Black Dog Institute www.blackdoginstitute.org.au Gotcha 4 Life www.gotcha4life.org Head Space www.headspace.org.au Lower North Shore Community Mental Health Service www.nslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/ptc/ Pages/Royal-North-Shore-Hospitaland-Ryde-Community-MentalHealth-Centre.aspx Mental Health Foundation Australia www.mhfa.org.au

Mental Health is Everybody’s Business You're invited to join other businesses in Lane Cove and hear how you can help yourself, your staff and your community by better understanding mental health.

Wednesday 13 October 7:30am – 9:00am Online via Zoom Free for local businesses Register: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events Proudly brought to you by Lane Cove Council in partnership with Black Dog Institute

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

E mayor@lanecove.nsw.gov.au

OCTOBER 2021 Earlier this year Council promoted the 2021 Australian Liveability Census.

I am pleased to say that the results are in and Lane Cove’s liveability score was the equal highest score across the nation! Tied with Adelaide, our score was well above the national average.

The results showed us that our top liveability strengths are a sense of personal safety; local businesses that provide for daily needs; elements of the natural environment; landscaping/natural elements; access to neighbourhood amenities; and a sense of belonging in the community.

While many of us already recognise the wonderful community we live in, it is fantastic to see that our fellow residents also love where they live.

If you’d like to provide Council with any feedback on how we can work together to make Lane Cove more liveable, please email service@lanecove.nsw.gov.au

Latest News

100% Renewable Energy: As you’ve no doubt heard, Council has committed to reduce its energy emissions as part of our response to the Climate Emergency declared in 2019. In an exciting leap forward, we recently agreed to take part in a regional tender process which will see us move our electricity supply to 100% renewable by July 2022.

This means Council would be able to reduce its carbon footprint by 73% from July 2022, more than a decade earlier than the 80% target reduction date of 2036. Council has committed to achieving this target across the whole of Lane Cove. So we will be relying on businesses and residents to assist us on this important journey.

It is definitely a positive vision for our future and an exciting opportunity for Lane Cove.

Citizenship Ceremonies Online: It has been a pleasure recommencing our Citizenship Ceremonies as we formally welcome Australia’s newest citizens. If you’re a local awaiting a Citizenship Ceremony please check that your email details are up to date in your Immi account as Council will be progressively emailing conferees with online ceremony opportunities.

You can visit www.lanecove.nsw.gov. au/citizenship if you’d like more details on the Department of Home Affairs process and when to contact them about your status.

Out and about in Lane Cove

12ft Sailing Skiff Club complete: It’s great to know that the rebuilding of facilities at Lane Cove Aquatic Park will be ready for the start of the sailing season. Council has provided temporary facilities since the arson attack and worked together with the 12ft Sailing Skiff Club on the design of the upgraded facility which includes a 950m2 deck with 275m2 storage shed, launching ramp, showers, as well as separate community boat storage lockers. This project was delivered on-time by Council using proceeds from insurance as well as grant funding under the NSW Government’s Transport (MIDO) program.

Garage Sale Trail: The 2021 Garage Sale Trail is coming to Lane Cove over two weekends 13 - 14 November and 20 - 21 November. The Garage Sale Trail provides residents with the opportunity to make and save money by buying and selling second-hand goods, reducing waste and reusing items in the process.

Should health restrictions limit face to face events the Trail is designed to be held online via virtual garage sales so you can still grab the perfect bargain!

Council is an official supporter of the event. To host a Garage Sale, and to find out more, visit www.garagesaletrail.com.au

Swimming season open: In case you’ve yet to enjoy your first swim of the season, Greenwich Baths and the outdoor pool at the Aquatic Centre are both now open. You’ll need to follow the conditions of entry and latest NSW Health advice. However I am sure everyone appreciates the opportunity to safely enjoy these facilities as the weather warms up.

Playground upgrades: Staff have confirmed that the upgraded Tantallon Oval playground design has been finalised following resident feedback and construction is currently planned for early Summer. The Helen Street Reserve playground design is being further refined and will be underway in the new year.

Did you know?

Lane Cove Library is now open for click and collect services. You can visit their website to reserve available items and the Library team will contact you to let you know when your books are available for collection. Items are available for COVID-Safe collection in the foyer of the Library – if you have any questions you can contact the Library on 9911 3634 or email library@lanecove.nsw.gov.au TVO 25

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

Free course for local businesses

Monday 18 October, 10:00am – 1:00pm

Hairdressers, barbers and salon professionals are often the first people to be confided in when coercion, domestic and family violence are taking place within relationships. This is why the Crows Nest Safe Village Project and EDVOS have developed a free online course for professionals on the Lower North Shore to support their capacity to support a client who may be experiencing family violence.

For details about this certified course and to RSVP, visit www.trybooking.com/BUGJT For more information, contact Maria Comino at Relationships Australia mariac@ransw.org.au 0434 379 786

Enhancing your Child’s Social and Emotional Development Thursday 11 November, 12noon – 1:30pm

Discover how to decode different toddler behaviours so that you gain a greater insight to your toddler and develop the tools to enhance their social and emotional development.

This free 90 minute online session will cover • w hy tantrums happen, how to manage and prevent them escalating • tips to help your toddler thrive socially and emotionally • i mplement the 4-Step System to maintain your parent sanity • three strategies to avoid and what to do instead.

Grandparents are also welcome.

Bookings: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Get Prepared today

Council has also partnered with the Red Cross to run free online workshops that will provide practical advice about becoming more resilient in emergencies and to encourage you to get started with your emergency plan • Get your House Prepared with the SES Thursday 14 October, 6:00pm - 7:00pm • Get Prepared with the Red Cross Wednesday 27 October, 1:00pm - 2:00pm • Get Prepared with the Red Cross Wednesday 3 November, 6:00pm – 7:00pm Bookings: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Frog Calls

Thursday 4 November, 7:00pm – 8:00pm

Help celebrate FrogID Week with this fascinating online presentation about all things that go ribbit!

Bookings: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Baby Yoga

Tuesday 9 November, 10:00am – 11:30am

This is your opportunity to discover the dual benefits for baby and you while providing the platform to build a strong and long-lasting bond with your baby in a natural way. Join us online to discover simple, effective stretches and poses, suitable for all levels of physical fitness.

Bookings: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events 26 TVO

Remembrance Day Thursday 11 November

Council will be working with the Lane Cove RSL Sub Branch to arrange an appropriate observation of the Remembrance Day in Lane Cove. Details will be available on Council’s website www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events from early November.

Bike Maintenance Workshop

Thursday 18 November, 6:00pm – 9:00pm

This free, practical workshop for Lane Cove residents teaches you how to maintain and care for your bike. For details of the location and to book your place, contact Council’s Road Safety Officer on 9911 3576 or vstamper@lanecove.nsw.gov.au

Confident Commuter Rider Course Sunday 21 November, 9:30am – 1:00pm

Overwhelmed by the thought of using your bike to start commuting? Come and learn about route selection, urban cycling tips, multi-modal transport options, and your rights and responsibilities. Ride with us from Lane Cove to Milsons Point before catching a train back to Artarmon. You will need a road worthy bike, a correctly fitting Australian/NZ Standards helmet and Opal card. To join this free activity, contact Council’s Road Safety Officer on 9911 3576 or vstamper@lanecove.nsw.gov.au

Talking Dentistry This month we’re talking restorative dentistry with Dr Andrew See who combines passion, artistic flare and extensive knowledge of dentistry to answer any questions you may have. He has advanced training in aesthetic and implant dentistry.

Reader’s question: “My gums are receding and are extremely sensitive to air, tooth brushing and cold water. Is there anything that can be done to help?”

Dr See says: Fantastic question. Receding gums can be painful and unsightly, causing major asymmetry in the smile line. Gums don’t grow back by themselves once they’ve been lost, whether it’s from abrasive tooth brushing or gum disease. Normally the gums cover the root surface of teeth.

This root surface is connected to the nerve inside the tooth, that when stimulated with cold or touch, it causes pain. Previously it was advised to use desensitising toothpaste, however this only masks the problem. We can also attempt to place restorations to cover the root surface of the teeth. This is also problematic as it sets up an interface between the restoration and root surface that bacteria will eventually colonise around causing gum inflammation or recurrent decay, hence resulting in more gum recession and the cycle continues.

However, internationally there have been advancements in growing back gums. This rejuvenation of the gums provides relief from sensitivity and improves the harmony of the gums levels. Gum rejuvenation is a technique where we carefully graft some soft tissue from another area of the mouth and place it on the site of the gum recession.

Because it’s not a foreign material, the body incorporates it very quickly and the gum can often return to normal levels.

Let’s look at a case that we completed where there were tooth roots exposed and sensitivity to air and tooth brushing.

Richard was referred to us because of his receding gums and the extreme sensitivity he was experiencing. It got to the point where he wasn’t brushing his teeth in this area and was therefore affecting the health of his teeth and gums. He wanted to fix the problem so he could feel better and keep his teeth healthy for the long term.

THE PROBLEMS: • Receding gums • Extreme sensitivity to air, tooth brushing and cold water • Exposed tooth roots THE SOLUTION: • Gum rejuvenation by placing a soft tissue graft onto the site of the recession

DR ANDREW SEE

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

HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT? Dr Andrew See has dedicated the last 18 years to Aesthetic Dentistry and has unique qualifications in cosmetic dentistry and rehabilitation.

This includes a 3-year Masters in Aesthetic Dentistry from the prestigious King’s College London and a Postgraduate Diploma in Dental Implantology.

Dr See completed his Fellowship by primary and secondary examinations for The Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (FRACDS).

FRACDS is the mark of professional achievement in dentistry and demonstrates attainment of an advanced level and skill in Dentistry.

After just one week, Richard no longer felt extreme sensations in the area where his gums had receded and was able to comfortably brush his teeth again.

If you have any questions you have always wanted to know about aesthetic or implant dentistry write to us at info@advanceddentistrysydney.com.au

9816 4885

dr.andrewsee

advanceddentistrysydney.com.au

TVO 27

Breast Cancer

BY DR CARL WONG DR CARL WONG IS A LANE COVE-BASED GP AND SITS ON THE BOARD OF SYDNEY COMMUNITY SERVICES

• ‘You are too young to have breast cancer, don’t worry about it’.

• ‘I’m breastfeeding/pregnant, these breast changes must be normal’.

• ‘I’m sure it’s just a breast cyst.

There is nothing to worry about it’.

• ‘I don’t have a family history so there is low chance I’ll get it’.

Approximately 55 Australians are diagnosed each day.

Despite improved survival rates, currently nine Australians still die from breast cancer each day. The vast majority of these are women, the focus of this article.

The impact of breast cancer can be devastating and disruptive on a woman. Depending upon ones age at diagnosis, treatment might involve also juggling multiple major life events such as pregnancy, parenting and a career.

Undergoing treatments can bring on early menopause and affect her ability to have future children. She can be at

risk of physical and psychological distress with changes to how her body looks and feels, affecting her self-esteem and relationships. It often will mean taking time off work, slowing down or even altering her career, affecting her financial status and her identity. Treatment side effects may impair concentration and her ability to live a normal life and work professionally. The list goes on.

In 2016, breast cancer was the most commonly diagnosed cancer, and the second most common cancer death in women, according to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). About 1 in 7 women are diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Men are diagnosed much less – 1 in 700 lifetime risk. The majority of breast cancer cases (about 80%) occur in women over the age of 50. It is therefore vital to have routine screening mammograms, for all women aged between 50-74 years.

Recent figures though are alarming. In a 2020 AIHW report of our BreastScreen Australia program, mammogram checks plummeted by 72,000 compared to the same period two years prior – a likely ‘COVID effect’ from lockdowns,

Beltone Imagine Introducing the world’s first truly tailored hearing experience to deliver sound as nature intended, no matter the environment

We are the experts at fitting hearing aids successfully.

We get them right the first time.

The ground-breaking Microphone & Receiver In Ear feature works with each individual’s unique ear shape to collect sound just as nature intended • Zero-in on conversations whilst maintaining situational awareness • High-performance rechargeability options • Direct audio streaming from iOS/AndroidTM

9420 2300 Call WHAT Hearing Centre and mention this advert to receive a free premium charger with a Beltone Imagine purchase.* *Free premium charger is available whilst stocks last.

28 TVO

174 Longueville Road Lane Cove thehearingcentre.com.au

infrequent GP check-up reminders and less focus on non-COVID related matters. The report also showed that back in 2016, 51% of breast cancers were detected through mammograms but only 55% of eligible women are participating for checks, and in 2018, 59% of small breast cancers (<15mm) were detected, of the size which the majority are too small to be felt by oneself, further showing the benefit of screening.

Mammograms though are not the answer for everyone. For woman under the age of 40, routine mammogram screening currently is not offered as false negative results occur more often due to denser breast tissue, and research still supports that routine screening not benefitting this age group.

For these younger women (but a good guide still for women of all ages), breast awareness is the recommended approach. The more you get to know the look and feel of your own breasts, the more likely you will notice any changes. Breasts are best felt at the time of your menstrual period when there are less conflicting hormonal changes. Common signs to look for: a breast lump or thickening, changes in the shape or size of the breast or nipple, any breast skin changes such as dimpling, discharge from the nipple, nipple crusting or inversion, persistent pain in the breast, and pain or swelling in the armpit.

Any of the above, demand a prompt check-up by your GP, and should never be ignored nor trivialised. If detected early and contained in one breast, the five-year survival is as high

as 96%, but drops as low as 32% if it has spread to other areas (metastasise).

So what are the risk factors? Simply being female and getting older are the biggest risks. Other non-modifiable risk factors include a family history (especially close-degree relatives and whom were diagnosed under 50 years of age themselves), of Ashkenazi-Jewish heritage, having been treated with radiation therapy to the breast/chest during childhood/ early adulthood, or a previous personal breast cancer diagnosis.

Having a mutation of the BRCA-1 or BRCA-2 gene carries up to 1 in 400 risk, but the vast majority of women diagnosed with breast cancer do not carry an inherited gene mutation. For these women who are at a higher risk, a more active approach is needed, often with a combination of mammograms, breast ultrasounds and sometimes MRI scans.

Modifiable risk factors include alcohol – one daily standard drink has a 7% increased risk compared to a non-drinker.

Smoking increases risk, especially when started at a young age and before the birth of a first child. Regular exercise in women of all ages has been shown to reduce risk and also improve outcomes after diagnosis.

Its (another) great reason to host a social (or even fundraising) virtual get-together during COVID lockdown to promote awareness of this common cancer during this Breast Cancer awareness month.

Load and movement When we have pain, we frequently start to question if we should be moving or loading our body differently to try and prevent further pain in the future.

On the surface this can sound a sensible approach and it can be easy to blame ourselves for doing something wrong that has resulted in pain.

This thinking can result in unnecessary avoidance of loaded activities.

Alternatively, some people tend to brace before moving in an attempt to protect from pain. Neither of these strategies are helpful for our bodies in the long term.

Happy bodies are strong and flexible with the different muscles naturally working together to move us through range. Bracing before moving, inhibits normal movement and inadvertently place greater stress on our muscles and joints. Avoiding loading to try and be safe, inadvertently makes us weaker and more vulnerable to future injury. Loading our bodies makes our muscles, bones, discs and cartilage all stronger.

At Burns Bay Physiotherapy we understand pain and movement. We can help you with suitable strength, loading and restoring your normal painfree activities. We can help you to understand how to manage yourself into the future.

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

www.burnsbayphysiotherapy.com.au Ann

Jill

Kirsty TVO 29

art

LOCAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT

John Klein Can you describe to us the type of artist you are, and the medium you work in?

I mainly paint still life using the medium of oil paint. I am a keen gardener and so many of the flowers from my garden appear in my paintings.

I also have a collection of objects from the Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Arts & Crafts periods and these also are used as subjects in my paintings.

What motivates you to ‘create’?

I have a love of colour, design and form and enjoy pulling various pieces together to create images that are beautiful to look at and can be admired by my collectors. I enjoy both the planning and execution of a painting and love to bring joy into my collectors’ homes. Fresh flowers eventually wilt and die however my paintings last a lifetime.

Where did you learn your craft, or is it something you were blessed with?

My father was an artist and encouraged me to draw as a child. I studied film and television when I left school and that taught me about light, tone and picture composition. As a painter, I am mostly self-taught however I have also honed my skills by completing workshops with artists that I admire.

Do you find Lane Cove and surrounds a supportive place for artists and creators?

Yes, there are some really terrific opportunities for artists to show their work locally. I have been a finalist in the Lane Cove and Hunters Hill Art Prizes several times and these events are always well run and supported by the community.

Do you believe there should be more support for the arts, and if so, how would that manifest?

Yes, I do. The recent lockdowns have been devastating for both the visual and performing arts community with many performances and exhibitions cancelled. The government needs to allocate more funds to support the arts recover from this difficult period.

How would we go about seeing your works?

Right now, I am featured in the spring exhibition at Brenda Colahan Fine Art in Putney. They offer contactless viewing in the alcove in front of the gallery and click and collect.

You can view the full catalogue at www.brendacolahanfineart.com Which artists/creators inspire you?

There are many artists who inspire me. I love the work of Margaret Preston, Margaret Olley and Grace Cossington Smith. Some of my favourite contemporary Australian artist included John Bokor, Wendy Sharpe and Lucy Culliton. I also Love Criss Canning – her still life paintings and extensive gardens in central Victoria are stunning.

30 TVO

What I watched on TV… Once again, our TV man Stephen Miller shares some of the best television shows he’s enjoyed watching over the last month.

The Newsreader (ABC iView)

Mr Inbetween (Binge) 3 series

Ray Shoesmith (Scott Ryan) is a father, ex-husband, boyfriend and best friend.

Juggling such roles is always tricky, but the task gets even more complicated if you add in ‘thug for hire’. However, despite his ‘employment’, Ray remains eminently likeable, and you’ll occasionally even empathise with this anti-hero’s alternative idea of right and wrong. This has to be one of the best pieces of Australian drama I’ve ever watched. Yes, it is a bit violent at times, but you can’t make a show about omelettes without breaking some eggs. ★★★★★ Why you would watch it: How it combines humour and violence is unlike anything else on TV. Why you wouldn’t: You don’t like TV shows containing swearing and violence.

Vigil (Binge)

The Newsreader provides an insight into the smoke-filled newsrooms of 1980s Australia. It explores the people, their relationships and the high-pressure deadlines behind our nightly television news. While fictional, it references major real-life stories from the 80s, which, with the muted colour grading, gives a great sense of realism. However, the show’s most significant achievement is how it guides us through this highly stressful environment with calm professionalism, making for a delightful watch. ★★★★ Why you would watch it: This is an excellent Australian drama.

Why you wouldn’t: While it received good reviews from critics, actual viewing figures were disappointing.

The Chair (Netflix)

Mirror, Mirror (10 Play)

Morning Wars (Apple+) 2 series

The only thing I could fault The Chair on was that it wasn’t long enough – just six 30 minute episodes. It explores the trials and tribulations faced by Dr JiYoon Kim (Sandra Oh) as she navigates her new role as the English department chair at prestigious Pembroke University. I actually didn’t expect it to be so interesting, but it was a very easy watch with an excellent topical plot.

Can’t wait for the second sitting! ★★★★½ Why you would watch it: Well acted, funny, and at times also quite moving.

Why you wouldn’t: Some people thought the humour sophomoric.

Australia has one of the highest per capita cosmetic surgery rates globally.

In Mirror, Mirror advertising and marketing guru Todd Sampson lifts the lid on body image dissatisfaction. He examines how the fitness, diet, and pornography industries are profiting from our obsession with beauty.

This two-part documentary was both informative and thoroughly absorbing – not to be missed. ★★★★ Why you should watch it: 50% of Australians say they are unhappy with their looks.

Why you wouldn’t: It is, at times, quite confronting.

This BBC show has an impressive cast, including Suranne Jones, Shaun Evans and Martin Compston. It has received rave reviews from almost everyone, except several Royal Navy officers – they apparently thought the representation of the armed forces was ‘sub’-standard – sorry! Just remember, though, this is a television whodunnit, not a documentary about life on a Navy submarine. But, fictional drama or not, I do agree that the crew seemed somewhat incompetent at times to be in charge of nuclear weapons. ★★★★½ Why you would watch it: As the poster says, ‘The deeper you go, the darker it gets’.

Why you might give it ‘Das Boot’: The submarine’s claustrophobic environment may make you feel uncomfortable.

This is high-budget television at its best.

It’s an inside look at the lives of the people who help America wake up in the morning. Lisa Wilkinson suggested it was “…like watching a documentary”. Despite not being a thriller, it is pretty thrilling and a reminder of the importance of good scripts. I haven’t been this hooked on a TV show in a long time. It’s compulsive viewing and not to be missed. ★★★★★ Why you should watch it: Jennifer Aniston is excellent, while Reese Witherspoon’s ‘Bradley’ is next level.

Why you wouldn’t: You’re not an Apple+ subscriber.

TVO 31

JUST FOR

BACKYARD RANGER Antarctica is calling!

OK, hands up who wants to go to Antarctica? Today! For free!

And without breaking any lockdown laws. Words by Julian Ledlin For those of you with your hands still in the air, LET’S GO! First, leave your house or apartment and walk until you find a bit of bush rock, either in a park or beside one of the hundreds of walking trails in the Lane Cove area.

Next, sit down on said rock.

Boom, you’re sitting on a piece of an ancient Antarctic mountain.

Let me explain…

Cast your mind back a few years… 280 million to be exact. Australia, as we know it was part of the southern supercontinent, Gondwanaland. Australia was spun on its side and we were connected to India and Antarctica to the west. This was before all us continents went our separate ways… when the jigsaw was complete!

Back then, huge mountain ranges in Antarctica soared into the heavens, taller than the Himalayas today!

Huge mountains meant huge rivers and one of these huge ancient rivers flowed across Australia into what is now the Pacific Ocean. The exact point where this river entered the ocean was Sydney. This colossal river mouth was the end of the line for the trillions of tonnes of sediment that had been washed along thousands of kilometres of river… then literally dumped on our doorstep.

Over millions of years the sediment piled up in the Sydney region and compacted, layer upon layer upon layer. Different flooding events brought different types of sediment which meant different colours. This is why you see those awesome lines and patterns in our Sydney sandstone.

Years went by, millions to be precise. The world’s continents separated and drifted every which way.

Antarctica’s mountains eroded, the continent dried up and froze over as it headed south… way south.

Meanwhile, the earth pushed up from below sending our famous Hawksbury Sandstone up, down… and all around.

So, back to your rock. Hopefully this is merely the beginning of your Antarctic adventures! I can see the advertising campaign now: “Visit Sydney, Taste Antarctica.”

Rock on!

32 TVO

KIDS

SOUL LIGHT SPIRIT

WEEKEND MINI ZOOM COURSES SATURDAYS 10AM - 12 PM

SUNDAYS 3PM - 5PM

• October 16 - Self Love Meditations A guided class teaching you to bring light and positivity to yourself • October 23 – Manifestation Meditations Specially created to help you manifest your dreams and wishes

•O ctober 10 - Learn the Power of Energy and Vibration •O ctober 17 - Learn To Meditate (for beginners and those who are yet to feel the benefits) •O ctober 24 – Harness ‘Law Of Attraction’

Soul Light Spirit is run by Helen Wilson-Hill, a trained Reiki Practitioner who has spent 25 years working with people to bring them the lives they deserve through meditation, universal energy and spirit. Based in the Blue Mountains, anyone can now join Helen’s classes on Zoom.

You can contact Helen via email: helen@soullightspirit.com.au or on Facebook and Instagram

www.soullightspirit.com.au

W d NO ite OK rs lim O B be m nu

if Living g

Living gifts in Hunters Hill WEEKEND NURSERY

Saturday & Sunday 10am -4pm

Succulent Christmas Tree & Wreath Making Workshops Visit www.ivyalley.com.au for booking and all the details.

Passy Ave, Hunters Hill (Find me down the lane!)

 0411 493 477

 rachel@ivyalley.com.au  ivyalley.com.au

TVO 33

review TOP 4 BOOKS TO READ THIS MONTH

A BOOK LOVER’S REVIEW

BY JACQUI SERAFIM

Peril by Bob Woodward Peril is the third instalment from legendary journalist Bob Woodward on President Trump’s time in office. It deals with the 2020 election and the storming of The Capitol on Jan 6th and is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand this tumultuous period in American history.

Great Circle

Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty.

A missing woman, long kept secrets, family resentments and a mysterious stranger.

“I loved it ... An absolute page turner” Jane Harper (We all loved it too!)

Man Who Died Twice

by Richard Osman Osman follows his supremely entertaining debut (The Thursday Murder Club) with an even better second instalment. A clever and at times funny mystery that will keep you guessing to the end. “Relax and enjoy” The Guardian

Guinness World Records 2022 The new instalment in this perennial favourite. Packed full of interesting stuff destined to appeal to all ages. Good one to put aside for Christmas!

by Maggie Shipstead Maggie Shipstead’s Great Circle is an ambitious, sweeping historical novel that chronicles the life of a fictional early female aviator, Marian Graves. The story begins in 1914 with the ill-fated meeting of her parents, her father a ship’s captain and her mother a damaged lost soul. When Marian’s mother is lost at sea and her father is imprisoned, Marian and her twin brother Jamie are sent to live with an uncle in Montana – an artist and a drunk who does his limited best while the children raise themselves. At the age of 12, Marian has her first encounter with a small plane that flies closely overhead. From that moment, she is driven by a single-minded desire to become a pilot. The novel tells Marian’s story against a backdrop of early 20th century aviation during Prohibition, the Great Depression and World War II. Deftly woven through the novel in alternating chapters is the contemporary narrative of Hadley Baxter, a disgraced Hollywood starlet who is cast to play Marian in a biopic. This dual narrative offers stark contrast between the two heroines; Marian’s courage and determination is juxtaposed against Hadley’s cynical self-sabotage. But there are also strong parallels between the two women, both losing their parents to accidents and raised by hapless uncles.

They are also both women pursuing independence in a world contrived by men. Marian faces the social barriers and the physical risks of being a woman alone where marriage and domestic imprisonment is only acceptable “safe” place for women. She writes “We’re celebrated for marrying.. but after that we must cede all territory and answer to a new authority like a vanquished nation.” Hadley, however, also confronts the limitations of the predefined roles assigned to her by Hollywood and faces the constant judgement of her behaviour by her minders, her fans and the social media context in a world which is a hypocritical “blow job-based barter economy”.

Although Marian’s is the dominant, more compelling story and Hadley’s a lighter, contemporary echo, Hadley’s story provides a fascinating view of the way history is misinterpreted by those who find evidence and draw conclusions based on false assumptions. It reveals the complexity of interpreting history and writing biography: the truth that is in the lost details that lie unrecorded. As one character, Adelaide Scott says, “I’ve.. been written about.. no one has more than a few scattered data points, but they connect the dots however they please”.

This is a compelling novel which combines sweeping action with lyrical descriptions of landscape and precise detail of people and places. It chronicles sinking ships, illegal bootlegging, battling on the frontline and descriptions of landscape so vivid it catches your breath. “Clumps of autumnal cottonwoods turned such a bright, sweet tangerine it hurt my teeth to look at them”. Shipstead has accomplished an amazing feat with this novel whose wide scope encompasses accurate and compelling aviation history spanning half a century, and a heart-wrenching, detailed narrative involving a multitude of finely drawn characters each with their own story.

Great Circle was shortlisted for the 2021 Booker Prize.

Adventure Writing Prize.

34 TVO

100

Karen Paull

Community Chaplain

WORDS Shared Paths Send in your ‘100 word’ contributions to: editor@thevillageobserver.com

The traffic was bumper to bumper on Riverside Drive, as Jason drove Valerie home, after her shift at the South Street Seaport Museum.

She had been run off her feet with tourists, and with no time for a bathroom break. How she wished she’d gone, before accepting the ride.

“Pull over Jason, I have to pee!” she suddenly exclaimed. “We’re on a freeway!” he replied.

Then she spotted the rubber glove poking out from the dashboard. It was now or never. Jason looked horrified, before averting his eyes.

With all dignity depleted, this wasn’t how she pictured their first date.

PERIHAN BOZKURT, LANE COVE

She yanked her dog from the filthy bunting connecting the red bins. His car was in their driveway. Her heart jumped, stomach dropped. A bouquet of flowers peaked out from the top of their bin. It wasn’t as if she hadn’t done it herself; reject the gift in a gust of dramatic effect only to regret it later.

Scared she’d be seen, she whipped the flowers away and took them home. She knew he’d slip in the back door later; preened, guilty and itching to touch her. She fanned them neatly in the vase, the scent filling the sunlit bedroom.

LINDA PATTY, GLADESVILLE

Bike riding and walking are currently great outlets for me. Utilising shared paths for both activities, makes me aware of both sides of the story! I am grateful for all the considerate people around, who move aside, greet or wave cheerfully, especially when riding. Many people are utilising our shared paths better, although others are just getting more irritated. Stories abound of locals supporting each other in considerate ways, balanced by others who have really had an overdose of their neighbours and lockdown issues. Our newsfeed makes us aware of people doing it tough all around the world, too. The reality is that we now live in a globalised way and we can’t simply turn the clock back to just living locally. Global warming and this pandemic clearly illustrate our need to cooperate together, on our shared path into the future.

Yet, how much can we realistically take, when we have very serious lockdown pressures in our mix? I found an unusual Biblical example in Mark 7: 24-30 , of a ‘foreign’ woman’s plea to Jesus, helpful to me. This woman came from outside of Jesus’ focal group, at a time he wasn’t welcoming visitors, with a request. You can almost hear the weary sigh. He is none-too-polite with her, delving to see if he’s going to expend his energy on this one. She responds to his off-putting opener with humility and great faith. Hence, Jesus relents and grants her wish. I learn that Jesus focused on his ‘main game’ (the local Jewish community), without putting blinkers on everything else, remaining warily open to compassionately extending his boundaries. He weighed the situations outside of his primary focus with more care, balancing them with his own needs for downtime.

This sits well with me. We have a certain capacity to handle the world’s pain, depending on what we are personally experiencing, and our inherent ability to cope.

To limit our primary scope of compassionate influence, enables us to respond to these people and situations with relative ease. Our caring response to other areas, comes after stepping back to analyse our concern first, lest we become over-extended.

Responding compassionately has a great side benefit too.

It tends to take our eyes off ourselves for a while and provide a by-product of joy in helping another. Let’s share our paths with consideration so our fellow travellers benefit too.

I am here to listen to people (on the phone or Zoom) of any or no religious persuasion, in order to help them through difficult times, such as these.

Contact details: Rev Karen Paull 0400 299 751 lanecovechaplain@gmail.com www.lanecovecc.com LANE COVE COMMUNITY CHAPLAINCY TVO 35 SUPPORTED BY LANE COVE UNITING CHURCH

story

I

t is late February and I am standing at the end of the world.

The serrated mountains with their clawed glaciers and turquoise cirques rise behind me. The frontier town of Ushuaia is at my back with its artpalette-painted timber houses lining the shores of the Beagle Channel made famous by the 19th-century naturalist, Charles Darwin, and his book, The Voyage of the Beagle.

Ushuaia, Argentina’s last outpost, is known as the world’s most southern city. El Fin del Mondo – The End of the World. It is a town of beaver dams, old dusty cars and an historic wheelshaped prison, once housing the most damned of inmates, now repurposed as a maritime and natural history museum.

It is also a town of delectables: meaty empanadas, king crab, dulce de leche, steaming hot chocolate and Argentina’s national drink, maté, the bitter, caffeine-rich herbal tea sipped through a metal straw.

Sir Francis Drake, when sailing here on his 1577 circumnavigation of the world, heard the Indians making an oosh oosh sound as they warned fellow tribes of the approaching ships.

Add to this the uaia (deep cove) of the indigenous Yamana people, and Ooshway-ya was given its pronunciation.

Ushuaia sits at the end of the spiked, volcanic dragon’s tail of the Andes that plunges into the Drake Passage, emerging again, triumphant and horned with snow and ice, as Antarctica. A dragon’s tail that is called 36 TVO

ON FIRST SEEING ANTARCTICA BY MARIAN MCGUINNESS

Tierra del Fuego, the archipelago of Patagonia, the land of fire and ice.

It is also the Gateway to Antarctica; the enigmatic seventh continent. That’s where I’m heading. 1238 kilometres away.

And that’s why I’m standing on the dock of the bay. Well, not actually standing, more leaning at 45 degrees, as the cutting katabatic winds funnel down the vertical drops of mountains and almost blow me off my feet. But on the dock, this is perilous, as the water temperature is frigid and I’m not keen on a pre-Antarctic dip.

The dock is flanked with ships of various purposes. There are cargo ships, their cranes loading containers onboard. There are research ships, like the Grigoriy Mikheev, and others with Cyrillic lettering that I can’t interpret. And at the end of the dock is my handsome ice-reinforced water chariot, with its cobalt-painted hull and adventurous name.

Men wanted for hazardous journey.

Small wages. Bitter cold. Long months of complete darkness. Constant danger. Safe return doubtful. Honour and recognition in case of success.

So reads the recruitment notice for Sir Ernest Shackleton’s 1914 expedition to Antarctica.

My journey is part fascination with the coldest, driest, windiest continent on Earth. A place barely touched by humans; a place lingering like the

spectre of the beginning of time.

This journey is also a homage to Sir Ernest Shackleton, my Irish-born Heroic Era champion who, just over 100 years ago, in his polar vessel, The Endurance, set off to become the first to cross the southern continent on foot. But, beset by solidifying sea ice and the crushing of his ship after 10 months of drifting, Shackleton had to turn his mind to saving his crew of 28. This was to become one of the greatest survival stories in history.

Although I am not voyaging in the shadow of Shackleton’s journey to Elephant Island and South Georgia, I’m still thrilled to be sailing to the Antarctic peninsula. Even if it is only for nine days.

The first challenge is crossing the Drake Passage, which is a misnomer, as Drake didn’t actually pass through this stretch of water. He sailed the less dangerous route through the Strait of Magellan. The passage took his name when one of his ships drifted south, therefore establishing the connection between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

After boarding my icebreaker, I go on a reconnaissance mission. With eight passenger levels, she’s a classy lady with wooden decks and teak and brass fittings. On the aft deck, as a reminder of her Russian origin as the Aleksandr Pushkin, there’s a joyful bronze statue of Rudolf Nureyev reaching to the heavens as he dances.

I make the same joyful pose beside him, dancing to the possibilities to come.

The gangway is now gone. The ropes untethered from their bollards, as is our last tenuous link with civilisation.

We surge forward and the whistle roars in a triple salute to the shore, leaving behind the forest-tapestry of grey peaks and the blue and white flag of Argentina.

when asked how many cruises I have been on. Ten? Twenty? ‘What is your favourite one?’

Seals porpoise alongside, and in this last vestige of summer, the sun appears like the prick of a pinhole camera.

‘Oh, we’ve never heard of it,’ my new friends chorus.

My spiritual reverie is broken when some of the passengers start chatting to me. They are puzzled by my accent.

Was I English?

‘No,’ I reply, ‘I’m Australian.’ I may as well have said, I am a kangaroo.

‘Oh,’ they fussed, trying to conjure up something familiar with Australia. ‘Oh, we love your country. Australia has given the world so many greats, like …

Penelope Cruz and Abba!’

I contain my surprise, but I can’t

Not wanting to let them know that it is my very first cruise, I pause as if pondering. ‘Well, the cruise from Circular Quay to Manly is my favourite so far.’

‘It’s rather exotic and specialised,’ I continue, too far in now to own up to my joke. And suddenly, this Aussie bird is another rare breed in this part of the world.

I ask one of the mingling officers when we will hit the Drake Passage. ‘You’ll know when it happens,’ he wryly replies as a slight smile creases his face.

I’m armed with sea-sickness tablets, acupressure wristbands and bags of crystallised ginger. I’m terrified of suffering from mal de mer.

Our next landmark is the island of Cape Horn, the final upward burst of the Andes where rushing currents, unimpeded by land, whirlpool around the white continent. It’s where waves revved up by the Roaring Forties, the Furious Fifties and the Screaming Sixties have shattered ships.

That night, as I toss and turn while thinking of icebergs, whales and calderas, I’m jolted from my bed. It feels as if the ship has hit a brick wall.

My suitcase is shunted off the rack. My flotsam and jetsam of travel goodies shoot off the desk. I check my phone.

It’s 2am and I guess that we’ve hit the Drake Passage.

As the ship rocks and rolls, dips and seesaws, I get a bit of sleep. But the next morning, as I shower in my tiny cubicle, I feel as if I’m showering on a surfboard, one foot in front of the other to keep my balance.

Continued over page

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TVO 37

Heading to breakfast, I notice that sick bags have been placed every few steps; up stairwells, along corridors, all within handy reach if needed.

Stumbling along with other passengers, gravity pulls us in one direction, and then the other. The corridors run uphill, and then downhill.

One of Shackleton’s companions, Felix Rooney, described crossing The Drake as, ‘so rough, the ship would roll the milk out of your tea.’

The swell reaches 12 metres, and the wind, 120 km per hour. There are two days of high seas crashing over the seven storeys of decks, where whitecaps bucket the windows as we watch in wonder and slight apprehension.

Unable to access the outside, we stay snug in the library, the salon and the ship’s theatre listening to lectures of polar exploration, seabirds and penguin eccentricities, such as how they change their eyeball shape when diving so they can see clearly, and how skuas have claws on the ends of their feet to snatch penguin chicks.

I learn that Antarctica is larger than Europe and Australia, that meteors have landed here and that bodies mummify. That its surface is made up of 98% ice. That is has rivers, lakes and active volcanoes. That Lake Vostok is under the ice, and that fossils have been found of the Jurassic forest where 2 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed.

We also discuss the problems facing Antarctica in the 21st century.

There’s the question of tourism, but we learn that the greater risk is that of pirate fishing vessels that kill a third of the world’s albatrosses and push fish stocks to the brink of extinction.

Travellers, on the other hand, who experience the beauty of this last frontier are its best safeguard, as they take home the message of conservation.

The number of people allowed on shore at any one given time, is 100.

Everything here is controlled for the continent’s biosecurity. One major threat is the rising sea temperature and its impact on the ecosystem.

Shorter winters and longer summers mean that birds and mammals are losing their breeding grounds. Feeding 38 TVO

patterns are altered, affecting the penguin population.

Another major problem is that of microplastic. Small amounts have already been found in the Weddell Sea, northeast of the Antarctic Peninsula.

After two days of being tumble-turned

by The Drake, we finally sail into the protection of the Antarctic Peninsula.

I’m surprised to see a yacht moored here. It’s from Wales and has a frozen sheep’s carcass roped to its mast.

Roald Amundsen, the first man to reach the South Pole said, ‘… in the sun, the land looks like a fairy tale.’ The spell of wonderment has been cast and I’m smitten.

On seeing my first iceberg through the picture window of my cabin, I race up to the outside deck. The cold slaps my cheeks as snow flutters onto my face like confetti. And I breathe in the purest air I’ll ever know.

Before leaving for Antarctica, friends had scoffed at the nothingness that I was paying to see. The all whiteness, the all silence.

Close to our ship, dark, sawtooth mountains soar into the leaden sky and I feel as if I’m witnessing the beginning of time.

I gaze on opalescent bergs with vivid blue streaks that glint like neon signs.

They position themselves like chess pieces waiting for the game to begin.

Looking over the railing I watch penguins, their orange beaks like arrows, swimming furiously under water. They stretch their blubbery bodies and propel out of the brashy ice onto the edge of a nearby berg.

They waddle in line up its slope, then slide back into the water, like a group of kids on a playground slippery dip.

Seals laze on their backs on top of other bergs, their fins wrapped around their fronts like belligerent teenagers sleeping in.

There’s a loud pistol-whip crack and an exhaling hiss that sounds like the primeval cry of a mother giving birth.

It’s a glacier carving. As the iceberg is born, I breathe in its now released oxygen that’s been held captive for the past few thousand years.

My adventure is now all ahead of me.

The discovery of Neptune’s Bellows and Hell’s Gates. Of sailing through narrow chutes into calderas. Of visiting abandoned whaling stations and research stations. Of zodiac trips, where icy winds will chisel my cheeks and set me upon the continent to take my first historic steps.

Ahead of me is the noise and stench of Gentoo and Chinstrap rookeries, and the antics of Elephant and Weddell seals. Of wheeling petrels and hovering skuas. Of Humpback and Minke whales head-hopping to see who’s here, and teams of scythefinned orca doing figure eights as they hunt for penguins to flip into the air and strip their bodies of skin.

Shackleton’s words inspired my pilgrimage to this icy realm. It is his words that settle on me again … In memories we were rich. We had pierced the veneer of outside things…

We had seen God in His splendours, heard the text that nature renders. We had reached the naked soul of man.

And it is his words that will continue to shape who I am and where I am going.

www.marianmcguinness.com

This article has received many accolades including the 2019 Lane Cove Literary Award for Travel Writing.

Marian is a keen participant in the Lane Cove Literary Awards and her story we re-printed last month, Death By Prawning, was the winning entry in the Short Story category in 2019 too. You can find out more about Lane Cove Library and the Lane Cove Literary Awards here: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ Community/Library/Pages/ LaneCoveLiteraryAward.aspx This year’s entries closed at the end of August. We will print the winners here in TVO when they are announced.

Helping you to enjoy a comfortable & independent life at home • 9427 6425 GILLIAN BATT CEO

A message from our CEO, Gill Batt At last there seems to be a dim light at the end of the tunnel. As more and more of us have had the jab, we all seem reconciled to the fact that Covid will probably be with us forever and we have to adapt the way we live our life to be able to live in a “new normal” way.

Over the past month we have spent many hours working on policies, plans and protocols to bring back our services but in the best and safest way, for our clients, our volunteers and our staff.

At the moment 95% of our staff are fully vaccinated and by the time this is published I really hope that will be 100%. Our volunteers have to be fully vaccinated before they can come back and the vast majority are ready and willing to get back and do

the things they love doing and seeing their clients that they help, either by delivering their meals or making their beds or tidying their gardens.

On Monday 25th October we are bringing back our programs and activities. Everyone will need to check in with either a QR code or signing an attendance record and we will be running pre-screening to make sure people are feeling well, have not been in a notifiable venue or state and do not have a temperature.

We have asked our clients to let us know whether they have been vaccinated and have offered to facilitate them in getting their jab if they need help with booking or transport. However we must continue to provide supports and activities to everyone regardless of

whether clients are fully vaccinated or not. Due to privacy laws we are also unable to tell people if anybody in their group is unvaccinated.

However, we will continue to put in place all measures to keep everyone safe. Bear in mind even double vaccinated people can still get Covid and spread the disease, although they themselves are unlikely to be so sick that they need to be hospitalised.

So as we start to roll down towards Christmas (!) we will try and achieve a “new normal” and make sure our seniors and people with disability can get out and about, enjoy meeting old and new friends and get to visit new places and people.

Take care and stay safe.

TVO 39

Helping you to enjoy a comfortable & independent life at home • 9427 6425 • www.sydneycs.org

Three new board members join Sydney Community Services Sydney Community Services has appointed three new board directors.

Alexandra Meldrum is a professional engineer and economist with broad experience.

She has 25 years’ management experience in government, industry, universities, and not-for-profit organisations, working for the likes of Nestle, Shell, Lifeline, AGSM UNSW, Department of Industry and NSW Treasury.

Alexandra brings expertise in strategy, transformation, change management, project management, risk and sustainability. She has taught in business schools at universities for 15 years and has also been a Lifeline volunteer and domestic violence counsellor.

Dr Carl Wong is a familiar face in Lane Cove, where the head office of Sydney Community Services is based. Carl graduated as a pharmacist and then became a doctor, now working as a GP in Lane Cove. He has lived locally with his wife for 13 years.

Alexandra Meldrum

Dr Carl Wong

Mark A. Bennett is also well-known to Lane Cove and surrounds having been a Councillor in Hunters Hill for eight years and as its Mayor from 2017 to 2020. For many years he was the Director of a large international engineering company while his wife Lydia was the first Professor of Urban Health at Sydney University.

The Sydney Community Services board continues to be chaired by John Devine.

High consumer satisfaction reported in Sydney Community Services survey Sydney Community Services has completed its Service Quality Survey for this year with 97% of responders saying they are either satisfied or very satisfied with the services they are provided by us.

The objective of the Service Quality Survey was to enable consumers and their representatives to express their opinions and comments regarding the quality of the organisation’s aged care services.

The data that was captured is highly beneficial as it allows Sydney Community Services to better understand the views and perceptions of the consumers, while also implementing possible changes to services. This receptive and adaptative mindset will prove highly advantageous for future service quality improvements.

96% of consumers said they are comfortable giving positive and/or negative feedback, including making a complaint, while they also felt as if they had been treated with respect in relation to their culture and diversity (99%).

99% of consumers felt safe and free from abuse and/or neglect while receiving services from Sydney Community Services, and 99% of consumers felt as if they had been always treated with dignity and respect.

40 TVO

Mark Bennett

96%

of consumers said they are comfortable giving feedback

99%

of consumers felt safe and free from abuse

Helping you to enjoy a comfortable & independent life at home • 9427 6425 • www.sydneycs.org

Back on Instagram!

Wellness packs In an effort to lift spirits and keep minds busy, Sydney Community Services put together a wellness pack, in association with Hunters Hill and Lane Cove Council. If you would like to receive a pack, please call the office on 9427 6425.

With some spare time on our hands, we used the lockdown to revive our Instagram account.

Go online to keep up-to-date with what we’re up to. In the last few weeks, some of our team here at Sydney Community Services took part in #faceit - the day when we shine a light on #childhooddementia. The task was simple: paint your face and show your commitment to the ongoing campaign to support those children and families who are coping with #childhooddementia.

Each year in Australia, around 129 babies are born with the condition that will lead to childhood dementia. This equates to more than two new cases every week. Currently, an estimated 2,273 Australians live with childhood dementia, and more than 90 of them will die prematurely every year.

HELPING YOU TO

ENJOY A COMFOR

TABLE & INDEPEN

DENT LIFE AT HOME.

www.s ydneyc s.org

P: 9427 6425

You can find out more here: www.childhooddementia.org/

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Catherine Woods Born in the year the Great Depression hit, Catherine Woods had experienced crises and wars before the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021.

S

he recalls her family being put out of their farm, an orange orchard, when she was a child because no-one had enough money to buy the fruit her father grew.

“None of us went hungry then because we and other growers would share and swap our produce,” she remembers.

When Catherine and her own family moved into North Ryde in 1957, it was all farmland there too, being opened up for first time to suburban developers.

After losing her husband, Catherine did a lot more driving around the area but, by the time she turned 88, she wanted to stop driving and needed help carrying heavy shopping so she signed up for help from SCS staff.

“It’s great: the girls push your trolley and get it into the car – it’s like having your husband back! They even offer to put the shopping away for me, but I don’t need that done. We go to the IGA, the newsagent, the cakeshop,

get whatever I need, then we stop at a café before coming home.”

Catherine appreciates the friendly companionship of the service which runs for two hours.

“They know your story and you know theirs,” she says of the handful of support staff she has had over the years.

If staff change, she says it doesn’t take long to “train them up” in her preferred products.

“One of the girls, when she was new to me, just took photos of each item so she would know for next time.”

Community Spotlight is proudly supported by Anthony Roberts MP. Authorised by Anthony Roberts, Ground Floor 215 Victoria Road GLADESVILLE NSW 2111.

Funded using Parliamentary Entitlements.

TVO 41

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

October will be a very busy month for the Lane Cove Electorate!

This month marks the return to a relative normality for New South Wales as we are set to hit the 70% vaccination target.

The Lane Cove Electorate has continued to be a leader across the State in terms of vaccination uptake and I’m sure the community will continue this trend as we push towards those 80% and 90% targets. This month will be crucial for the hospitality and retail businesses that have been doing it tough for the last few months so please go and enjoy a nice meal or some retail therapy to help support our local businesses.

October will also mark the gradual return of face to face learning for both Primary and High School students. The return to school also coincides with the record investment into Public School infrastructure. Last month the NSW Government announced an injection of $484 million to improve school facilities across the State. Five schools across our Electorate are set to benefit from this investment with upgrades to learning and recreational facilities planned for Lane Cove Public School, Hunters Hill High School and Greenwich Public School. This Government is not only prioritising the return of face to face learning for our students but is committed to ensuring that their school facilities are helping them reach their full potential.

Additionally, Heritage NSW has just introduced the Blue Plaque program which is designed to celebrate buildings or people that have had an important impact in our local community. Whether your story is in relation to Indigenous history, European settlement, industrial advancement, or simply just ordinary people doing extraordinary things we would love to hear some of the amazing stories from around the Electorate. You can get in touch with my office on 9817 4757 or via email at lanecove@parliament.nsw.gov. au and get in quick before applications close on the 31st of October.

Young in Art goes online

Each year we celebrate the creative talents of students from our local schools through our Young in Art showcase.

The exhibition is traditionally held at Town Hall and over the course of several days, students, teachers, friends, family and members of the public drop in to admire paintings, drawings and sculptures that students have completed through their visual arts studies.

This year, COVID has prevented our Council from hosting an event in Town Hall.

But we did not want to miss the opportunity to hold the Young in Art exhibition.

So, in 2021 the showcase is going digital.

All artwork will be available to view on the Hunter’s Hill Council website via www.huntershill.nsw.gov.au/art from 14 October.

Images of the exhibition’s winning artworks will also be on display in surprising places around the Municipality.

Young in Art is always a fabulous showcase of locallytrained talent, and a tribute to the passion and hard work of the students and art teachers across all our schools.

We hope our community enjoys Young in Art online and we hope to see you back at the Town Hall in 2022.

Boronia Park bike track to be a reality In the latest Plan of Management for Boronia Park, our Council included a bike circuit (pump track) on the grassed area between Oval 2 and Princes Street.

We have heard and seen the demand from our community to get this built.

During September, we marked out a site, built an interim track jump, engaged locals and, with help of our schools, designed this space.

There is great interest from kids and parents.

Until we can get more track into play, I request that all bike riders leave their shovels at home and not ride in the sensitive bush areas of our parks.

Our many Bushcare volunteers have spent decades repairing the bush and protecting special areas such as the critically endangered turpentine forest and wetlands and they would be heartbroken to see all this hard work undone.

42 TVO

TRENT ZIMMERMAN MP P: 9929 9822 E: trent.zimmerman.mp@aph.gov.au

We’re all looking forward to life out of lockdowns. As the National Plan outlines, we can begin to safely transition to a new COVID-normal when we reach 70% and 80% double vaccination rates.

For me personally, I’m looking forward to catching up with family and friends while eating at our favourite restaurants – I know my mum is looking forward to seeing her family together again!

We are getting closer to these milestones. As New South Wales approaches the 70% target, we can start to envision what this new normal will look like for us all.

The North Sydney electorate has consistently had some of the highest vaccination rates in the country, as Lane Cove leads the way with around 90% of residents already having had their first dose.

Once we hit these targets, the NSW government has outlined how we can begin to ease restrictions for residents.

This will include allowing indoor gatherings of five vaccinated people, outdoor gatherings of 20 vaccinated people and the re-opening of retail businesses, hairdressers and beauty salons, gyms, and other indoor recreation facilities.

Lockdowns will become less likely and importantly, we can increase inbound traveller arrivals, especially for vaccinated Australians – meaning families and loved ones can be reunited.

Also, this month has seen thousands of pharmacies across Australia dispensing the Moderna vaccine. In our electorate, there are many pharmacies that are stocked with Moderna – so please get down to your local pharmacy to get your jab!

Getting vaccinated is our path to being able to live our lives normally again. The best thing we can all do is to get vaccinated. Thank you to everyone who has had the jab so far – it’s vital that we keep going!

Trent Zimmerman MP

North Sydney

Community Awards Nominations are NOW OPEN

Scan this QR code to nominate your favourite local hero or visit trentzimmerman.com.au

TRENT ZIMMERMAN MP

FEDERAL MEMBER FOR NORTH SYDNEY

Level 10, 2 Elizabeth Plaza, North Sydney NSW 2060 trent.zimmerman.mp@aph.gov.au TrentZimmerman

9929 9822

trentzimmerman.com.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 15 words per group.

1ST LANE COVE SCOUT GROUP 428 4061 lanecovescouts.com ALL AGE SUNDAY SCHOOL 223 Burns Bay Rd, Lane Cove West.

0434 432 175 metropolitanbaptist.net.au ANC MIXED SOCIAL GOLF CLUB 0411 559 909.

AQUALUNA CHOIR Fun acapella.

St Andrews Church Hall, Longueville.

0402 839 499 paula@lul.com.au CARER SUPPORT Free telephone support service. 1800 242 636 CARISBROOK HISTORIC HOUSE carisbrookhouse.com CLAN MACLEOD PIPE BAND St Leonards Park, North Sydney. www.clanmacleodpipeband.com COMMUNITY CHAPLAIN Community Chaplain offers activities enabling locals to connect. Contact Karen: 0400299751 lanecovecc.com DRAMA SPOT Classes for 5-15yrs.

Currambena, LCPS & LCM Church.

0402 342 986 info@dramaspot.com.au ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLASS with trained facilitators. $3 pw.

9427 1163 lcmchurches.org.au EVANGEL BIBLE CHURCH ESL Classes - Contact Andy 043 3119 083 FOODFAITH COMMUNITY GARDEN Free garden plots info@foodfaith.com.au GREENWICH SAILING CLUB gsc.org.au/gsc-training@gsc.org.au GREENWICH TENNIS CLUB INC New members welcome. greenwichtennis.com.au admin@greenwichtennis.com.au HALLAM AVENUE TENNIS CLUB 58 Hallam Ave, Lane Cove West.

0424 229 259 hatc.hire@gmail.com HUMMINGSONG COMMUNITY CHOIRS Chatswood choir ‘Alkira’ open to new members. hummingsong.com.au HUNTERS HILL BRIDGE CLUB Hunters Hill Bridge Club, Crown St, Henley. 0438 619 780 or sheldrakecarol@gmail.com HUNTERS HILL CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH Sundays in various homes in our community.

9817 2282 or hhcc.org.au

Business Listings

HUNTERS HILL CROQUET CLUB 1 Matthew Street. New members welcome. 0490494965. huntershillcroquet@gmail.com HUNTERS HILL MUSEUM Hunters Hill Town Hall, Alexandra Street. huntershillmuseum.org.au HUNTERS HILL WOMEN’S BOWLING CLUB Free. 0419 258 662 or 0408 110 082.

HUNTERS HILL ROTARY CLUB huntershillrotaryclub.org. au/0410500735 HUNTERS HILL SENIORS’ CHESS GROUP Ironwood Cafe, Woolwich.

9817 0101 / ssmall@sydneycs.org HUNTERS HILL SAILING CLUB info@huntershillsailingclub.org.au huntershillsailingclub.org.au JAZZ BAND Rehearsals Monday nights 0410 566 953. davidcbraybrook@bigpond.com KEYSTROKES CHOIR Have you had a stroke/Aphasia and looking for ways to improve your speech? Northside Baptist Church, 63 Willoughby Rd, Crows Nest. 1300 650 594 or info@keystrokensw.org.au LANE COVE ART SOCIETY Monthly meetings take place at the Longueville Bowling Club (The Diddy) on fourth Tuesday every month.

LANE COVE BOWLING CLUB 151 Burns Bay Road.

4607 3732 0417 213 173 info@lawnbowls.com.au LANE COVE BUSH KIDS Nature activities for kids. lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushkids LANE COVE BUSHLAND & CONSERVATION SOCIETY Lane Cove Tennis Club, Kenneth Street, Longueville.

Ron, 9427 1125; Helen, 9427 4845.

LANE COVE CHORISTERS Senior ladies’ choir. St. Aidan’s Church, Longueville. 0419 680 910.

LANE COVE CONCERT BAND Local musical organization 0407 124 600 lccb.org.au LANE COVE MASTERS SWIMMING Lane Cove Aquatic Centre - all levels of swimming.

LANE COVE MUSIC classical and semi-classical concerts for more than 70 years.9428 4287 lanecovemusic.org.au info@lanecovemusic.org.au

LANE COVE MUSIC AND CULTURAL CENTRE Music tuition for kids and adults.

Suzuki and trad methods. 9427 8027 LANE COVE MUSIC CONCERTS Lane Cove-Mowbray Anglican Church, 19 Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove (behind Post Office). 9428 4287 lanecovemusic.org.au LANE COVE NETBALL CLUB lanecovenetball@gmail.com lanecovenetball.com.au LANE COVE RESIDENTS FOR RECONCILIATION (LCRR) Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal community working for Reconciliation and social justice lanecovereconciliation@gmail.com reconciliationnsw.org.au LANE COVE SCRABBLE CLUB meets on the 1st & 3rd Thurs of month.

Lane Cove Bowling Club 0414 560536 scrabble.org.au/nsw/ LANE COVE UNITING CHURCH All-Age services each Sunday at 9:30am lanecove.unitingchurch.org.au LANE COVE YOUTH ORCHESTRA Scholarships offered.

0411 413 335 mcn114@bigpond.net.au lanecoveyouthorchestra.org.au LANE COVE RSL SUB-BRANCH RSL matters, DVA and community services. 9906 5934 LANE COVE TOASTMASTERS 23A Stokes St, Lane Cove.

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

LANE COVE WEST TENNIS CLUB 0417 667 020 lcwtennis.com.au LAUGHTER MELODY YOGA One hour laughter yoga sessions. 403 392 122. meetup.com/Laughter-Melody-Yoga/ LAVOCE, A LANE COVE COMMUNITY CHOIR lavocelanecove.com adrianlee2@mac.com or 0424507321 LONGUEVILLE ST AIDAN’S ANGLICAN CHURCH Christina/Arabella St staidans.com.au LONGUEVILLE UNITING CHURCH Pizza & Movie nights @ Longueville UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville $10. Every month: 6.30pm Pizza, 7.15pm Movie. BYO drinks Bookings: 9427 4740/9428 4287 LOWER NORTH SHORE MULTIPLE BIRTH ASSOC Gathering for parents with multiples (twins, triplets etc) @ lnsmba.amba.org.au lnsmba.amba.org.au

Local Builder MARTIN WESLEY

Residential alterations, extensions, additions

gold

PH 0411 856 492

in Lane Cove

Over 25 yrs reliable service Lane Cove Area LIC NO 45821C

CLASSES

Casual visit & packages available

TVO advertising enquiries advertising@ thevillageobserver.com.au

Low impact exercise. Ideal for seniors and people with injuries or special needs

Contact Diana 0406 765827

zumbaforyou@live.com :: www.zumba4u.com.au

44 TVO

MEN’S SHED Drop in for a cuppa & chat. St Columba Retirement Centre, 15 Figtree St. 0428 024 208 lanecove@mensshed.net MINDFULNESS MEDITATION FOR SENIORS 178 Longueville Rd livinginharmony.com.au/meditation 0428 569 373 MOOCOOBOOLA COMPUTER CLUB Help for seniors to use computers and devices. Contact: 9816 5293, j-harris@bigpond.net.au NORTH SHORE BRAIN TUMOUR SUPPORT GROUP Facilitated by health care professionals. North Shore Private Hospital. snog@snog. org.au/snog.org.au NORTH SHORE PROSTATE CANCER SUPPORT GROUP Information and encouragement for those impacted

by Prostate Cancer.

Monthly free meetings John Fullagar (Convenor) 9498 1984 john.fullagar@bigpond.com OSBORNE PARK TENNIS oppa.tennis@gmail.com/8003 3316 PROBUS CLUB OF HUNTERS HILL COMBINED 9437 6229) - and 181A Gladesville Road, Gladesville ROTARY CLUB OF LANE COVE Meets Tuesday evening, alternating weeks between a local venue & a Zoom meeting. All welcome lanecoverotary.org/0407 216 552 SAHAJA YOGA MEDITATION 0422 798 498.

SHINNYO-EN BUDDHIST TEMPLE 231 Longueville Road, Lane Cove.

9418 6688 info@shinnyo.org.au or shinnyo.org.au SPIRIT OF LIFE UNITARIAN FELLOWSHIP Kirribilli Neighbourhood Centre. 9599 1180, Sydney Unitarians – Spirit of Life. sydneyunitarians.org/ Studio Pilates Crows Nest studiopilates.com 0421 488 855 THE LOCAL VOCALS’ COMMUNITY CHOIR Performing contemporary and traditional songs. 0452 006 693 U3A UNIVERSITY OF THIRD AGE 9267 9056 or sydneyu3a.org WAIG - WOMEN’S ACTION AND INFO GROUP Speakers, discussions and book group for women. waigwomen@gmail.com facebook. com/waigwomen/ WOM:NI - WILLOUGHBY OLDER MEN: NEW IDEAS For men over 55. Club Willoughby, Crabbes St, Willoughby Contact: 9417 3715 ZUMBA CLASSES IN LANE COVE Classes suitable for everyone.Dianne: 0406 765 827 zumba4u.com.au

Lane Cove Local Plumber Award Winning, amily Owned & Operated Business

• 24/7 EMERGENCY Service • Ontime Reliable Plumbers • Honest up-front pricing • All works Guaranteed

CALL US NOW:

9056 8104 PLUMBERS. DRAINERS. GASFITTERS

Suitcase to Plane Maze

Spot the Difference

Ever wonder how your suitcase gets from the check in counter to the airplane? Be careful, you don’t want to be without your toothbrush for vacation!

Find 10 differences between the two pictures

Answers to both puzzles on page 46 >

going places.

Community Community Transport Medical & & everyday everyday transport •• Medical Shopping & & Social Social trips •• Shopping NDIS transport transport •• NDIS NOW OPERATING OPERATING SATURDAYS •• NOW

Bus Hire •

Night Ryder bus available available for for your your event event

•

Exclusive shuttle services services for for community community

Community Transport stryder.org.au │ 9816 5000 TVO 45

PROPERTIES OF OF THE THE MONTH MONTH

SOLD via online auction

SOLD prior to auction

After 17 days on market, 700+ buyer enquiries and 176 private buyer inspections a remarkable result was achieved at auction with 30+ registered bidders.

Block record for a one bedroom apartment after 15 days on market.

If you're looking for a move, have a confidential conversation with Debbie or Robyn today.

Debbie Jepson Robyn Mannix

173 Longueville Road, Lane Cove 3 bed | 2 bath | 1 car

7/24-28 Landers Road, Lane Cove 1 bed | 1 bath | 1 car

0420 455 441 0418 240 569

debbie@ch.com.au robyn@ch.com.au

94277466 7466 | | ch.com.au ch.com.au 9427

Makingmore more Making roominin room LaneCove Cove GET 50% OFF Lane

FOR SALE - Greenwich’s Best Kept Secret

AUCTION - Light Filled One Bedroom Apartment

12 Glenview Street, Greenwich 4 Bed 2 Bath

3/143-145 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove 1 Bed 1 Bath 1 Car

A beautifully maintained California bungalow in a private bushland setting offers multiple living across two spacious levels. Enjoy wonderful peace and privacy within an enclave off Glenview Street shared with only four other properties.

Inspection by appointment - Bernadette Hayes 0431 558 505

This one-bedroom apartment is set at the rear of the well maintained “Greenview” security complex. Offering plenty of natural light with sunny balcony overlooking Lane Cove West Bowling Club. Conveniently located near the vibrant Lane Cove village with a vast choice of cafes, restaurants and supermarkets. Inspection by appointment - Hanny Japri 0423 053 180

harbourline.com.au

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

GET2 MONTHS 50% OFF 2 MONTHS STORAGE STORAGE

Spot the Difference

Solution from page 45

46 TVO TVO 46

storageking.com.au/Lanecove

storageking.com.au/Lanecove 27 Mars Road, LANE COVE, NSW 2066 27 Mars (02)Road, 9436 6405

LANE COVE, NSW 2066 (02) 9436 6405

Suitcase to Plane Maze Solution from page 45

PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH

AUCTION: SATURDAY 9TH OCTOBER AT 9AM

AUCTION: SATURDAY 16TH OCTOBER AT 4PM

VIEW: BY APPOINTMENT 44A Ronald Avenue, Greenwich 3 bed 2 bath 3 car Enveloped in sumptuous gardens this fantastic home is the perfect choice for families seeking space, privacy and serenity. Largescale entertaining area, which is graced with intimate natural vistas and multiple outdoor connections.

VIEW: BY APPOINTMENT 407/9 Birdwood Avenue, Lane Cove

Mary-Anne Fitzgerald 0418 648 654

Alex Banning 0434 131 903 E: alexb@lns.rh.com.au

E: maf@lns.rh.com.au

AUCTION

2 bath

2 car

Framed by dual balconies and orientated to enjoy a sunny due north aspect, it combines stylish design with sleek contemporary finishes and wonderful cross-flow breezes to ensure a luxurious urban retreat for busy professionals, young families and downsizers alike.

AUCTION

39 Cullen Street, Lane Cove West

3 Bed 2 Bath 1 Car

Renovated entertainers delight on 725 sq metres Hazel McNamara 0402 913 537 E: hazelm@lns.rh.com.au

8318 7888

2 bed

I

56 Richardson Street West, Lane Cove

5 bed 3 bath 2 car

Much loved family home, ideally located in quiet cul de sac with easy access to LC Golf Course, CBD buses, schools and Lane Cove Village.

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

www.rh.com.au/lanecove

25 Glenview Street, Greenwich

4 bed 2 bath 2 cars

59 Austin Street, Lane Cove

4 bed 3.5 bath 2 cars 1 study

AUCTION SATURDAY 9 OCTOBER AT 9.45AM

AUCTION SATURDAY 9 OCTOBER AT 3.00PM

VIEW AS ADVERTISED OR BY APPOINTMENT

VIEW AS ADVERTISED OR BY APPOINTMENT

• T his stunning entertainer unveils a sumptuous lifestyle of luxury, • First-Class family retreat in peninsula setting privacy and space, on approx. 992sqm in coveted street • Grand family home is set on a generous approx. 834sqm of land • Showcasing a striking mix of classic charm and modern appeal • Open plan living/dining, gourmet gas kitchen with European appliances James Bennett 0403 504 724 E: james.bennett@belleproperty.com Baxter van Heyst 0447 113 025 E: baxter.vanheyst@belleproperty.com

Jess Goodman 0401 888 555 E: jess.goodman@belleproperty.com Olivia Shipley 0447 152 175 E: olivia.shipley@belleproperty.com

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

australian boutique network of the year

winner 2013 2014

Your local number one selling agency With over 130 sales between them in the past 12 months, Hazel McNamara, Mary-Anne Fitzgerald and Rebecca Mitchell are your local agents who specialise in house sales in Lane Cove and across the Lower North Shore.

If you're thinking of selling and want a stress-free experience while achieving the best price possible, contact the team at Raine & Horne today.

Hazel McNamara 0402 913 537 hazelm@lns.rh.com.au

Mary-Anne Fitzgerald 0418 648 654 maf@lns.rh.com.au

Rebecca Mitchell 0412 257 625 rebeccam@lns.rh.com.au

Testimonial

Testimonial

Testimonial

"Hazel's local sales knowledge was invaluable to help make the sale process smooth and ultimately the best outcome for our family.

Would highly recommend Hazel to sell your property."

"Mary-Anne worked tirelessly to get us sold, showing our house after hours and on Sundays.

Nothing was too much trouble. It was a great experience and we cannot recommend Mary-Anne highly enough."

"Rebecca always had time for me and guided me every step of the way, her team was extremely helpful and efficient. I would highly recommend using Rebecca, she made a very stressful time easier and I will always be grateful."

Vendor in Lane Cove

Vendor in Lane Cove

Vendor in Lane Cove

48 TVO