The Village Observer

The Village Observer

Keeping the local community connected for over 30 years

For over 30 years, The Village Observer has kept our community connected with news, features, interviews and event listings that are specific to the lower north shore. Six pages per edition are used by our local councils and the state and federal MPs.

TVO is distributed at key locations from East Ryde through to North Sydney, up to Willoughby and down to the Hunters Hill peninsula. The content and advertising is directly targeted to our loyal readers.

If you would like to showcase your business by advertising in TVO email: advertising@thevillageobserver.com.au

Proceeds from The Village Observer support residents in need across the lower north shore through its owner, Sydney Community Services.

Powering Our Community

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

Local Support for Local People

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

THE VILLAGE OBSERVER:

1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove NSW 2066.

PUBLISHER: Branka Ivkovic P: 02 9427 6425 E: BIvkovic@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

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DISTRIBUTED: Monthly

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

• 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.

CONTACT US:

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

EDITOR'S LETTER

Thanks for picking up the September issue of TVO, wherever you are across the lower north shore.

As our footprint has expanded, we have had so many new people come forward with stories and events of interest – thank you so much.

This month we were invited to attend a conference on social prescribing: a formal, structured way to connect people with health issues to non-medical services. It was truly eye opening and a full rundown is included inside.

Elsewhere, we talk to local author, Paulene Turner, and one of our regular contributors, Maggie Lawrence shares her funny and wonderful story about how she came to be a writer.

We explore if man flu is a real thing, plus all our regulars can be found inside too: recipes, book reviews, TV reviews and the lowdown from Sydney Community Services and what it has going on this month.

There’s never a dull moment around here!

Nicola NICOLA RICHES EDITOR editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

Limited and open edition prints. Images of the earths surface as viewed from directly above. The abstraction lies in the eye and mind of the observer.

Local government elections take place September 14

You must enrol to vote if you are an Australian citizen aged 18 years or older and have lived in NSW for at least one month.

To update your enrolment details online, or to download an enrolment form, visit the Australian Electoral Commission website aec.gov.au or call 13 23 26.

All voters on the NSW electoral roll as at 6pm Monday, 5 August 2024 will be included on the residential roll for the election. Voting is compulsory.

Visit elections.nsw.gov.au, or call 1300 135 736, for more information.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing and/or have a speech impairment, please contact the National Relay Service (NRS). Choose your access option and ask for 1300 135 736.

If you need an interpreter, call TIS National on 131 450 and ask them to call the NSW Electoral Commission on 1300 135 736.

An update on Gladesville’s

Rockend Cottage – the home of Banjo Paterson

The City of Ryde has provided an update on the future of Rockend Cottage, an important heritage-listed property situated at Banjo Paterson Park, Gladesville.

The current lessee of Rockend Cottage took occupation of the much-loved 1850s era stone cottage in late 2023 with the intention of opening a new restaurant.

Council has been attempting to work collaboratively with the lessee in order for the new business to open as soon as possible.

However, building work on the historic property, which was home to the famous writer and poet Andrew Barton (‘Banjo’) Paterson in the 1870s, has proceeded without the required authorisations or approvals. Accordingly, Council has issued stop-work orders on the lessee.

Council and the lessee are currently in the process of considering their options with respect to ensuring that the structural integrity and the heritage fabric of the building has not been compromised.

“This may take some time given the nature of the works that have been undertaken in the context of the heritage significance of the building and the nature of its construction," says a media statement.

Lane Cove warehouse becomes hub for hard plastic recycling initiative

A collaboration between the UNSW SMaRT Centre and IT asset management company Renew IT has begun turning discarded hard plastics into 3D printer feedstock via SMaRT's first commercially-run factory in Lane Cove.

A UNSW-invented system has been installed at Renew IT and is fully operational now turning plastics destined for landfill into valuable filament.

UNSW SMaRT Centre founder and director, Professor Veena Sahajwalla said, “Commercialising our technology has taken a lot of time and effort, but it is a sustainable waste, recycling and manufacturing solution. We’re turning the hard plastics found in all modern electronic hardware that are not subject to conventional recycling methods, into printer feedstock for a booming sector.

“3D printing is a wonderful technology enjoying rapid uptake, but the tragedy is until now 3D printing has been reliant on virgin plastics. I look forward to a time when 3D printing feedstock is sourced exclusively from local recycled plastics,” she said.

Community win for Lane Cove North bushland site

The June issue of TVO featured a story on a hidden bushland gem in Lane Cove North. The property at 14 Gay Street, purchased by Lane Cove Council in March 2023, is tucked away in Upper Stringybark Reserve and holds bushland that is rare for Lane Cove and Australia. Following community consultation, at the July Council meeting councillors unanimously resolved to dedicate the entire site to bushland and classify it as community land under the Local Government Act. This was a once in a generation opportunity and residents sincerely thank Council.

Rotary Lane Cove celebrating the gift of thousands of dollars to worthy causes.

Hunters Hill Rotary Changeover

Hunters Hill Rotary has voted in its new president, Barbara Enright, who becomes the organisation’s second female president in more than 65 years.

Barbara takes the reins from outgoing president, Charles Amos who gave 2.5 years to the position and is touted as reviving Rotary HH, and boosting its membership to more than 60 people.

“I became involved with Rotary when I was looking for something where I could continue using the business skills that I had gained over the 30 years of owning and operating our family business. I was telling a friend I felt I was not finished yet and was looking for something else to do, and she suggested I join Rotary. It inspired me to give something back to this community where I have lived now for over 43 years,” says Barbara.

Charles Amos is now vice president and Penny Guilchrist, secretary.

New bike route for North Shore

The Willoughby community has secured $6m in funding to construct a key two-way separated cycle connection between Chatswood and St Leonards, via Artarmon through Hampden Road and Herbert Street.

Member for Willoughby Tim James said the announcement was a big win for the local active transport network and would improve cycling connectivity across the Willoughby area.

“I’m a strong believer in investing in and growing our active transport infrastructure,” Mr James says. “Separated cycleways encourage the use of a safer, cleaner, cheaper and healthier alternative to driving and appeal not just to existing riders but also those wanting safer options.”

Welcome to the better big bank

Welcome to the better big bank

North Sydney Garden Competition opens

All local gardeners are invited to showcase their horticultural talents and celebrate the beauty of their green spaces in the 2024 North Sydney Garden Competition.

Whether you’re just starting your gardening journey or have been nurturing plants for years, this is your chance to shine. From cozy balconies to sprawling backyards, and from indoor green havens to vibrant community gardens, there’s a category for every type of garden and gardener.

Residents, businesses, and community organisations in the North Sydney local government area have until 30 August to enter this year’s competition.

Winners will be announced at the much-anticipated Garden Competition Awards Ceremony, planned for late October 2024, with prizes including gardening tools, vouchers, and more.

Find out more and enter online at www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/ gardencomp

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^

The various vagaries of houses

by Liz Foster

One of the many delights of travel is getting the hang of how things work in other people’s houses. It doesn’t matter which country you’re in, even which town or suburb in Australia, everyone’s got their thing, those tiny little knacks and tips we all subconsciously follow in our own homes. You only remember you instinctively pull the shower door inwards an extra centimetre when your houseguest floods the bathroom.

There are finessed rules unique to every specific houselifting the catch slightly to get the key in the door, double locking everything anti-clockwise, putting the spare key in the spare fridge in the garage, enabling the alarms twice, parking in the specific space between the garage and the fence, folding away the hills hoist style washing line with its cover after every use. Not to mention the thousands of different ways that showers work, only discoverable when you’ve drenched yourself in freezing water when twiddling with the unmarked knob.

Travelling in the UK, I’m always amusingly reminded at how many tiny foibles every (usually old) house has, each one different to the next. My niece lives in the Cotswolds in a beautiful house, with lots of rooms, two bathrooms but no shower. ‘You’ll just have to dunk your head in the bath like when you lived in England before,’ she announced with glee.

I moved to Australia in 1991 so it’s been a while – too long in fact – and I couldn’t bring myself to do it, electing instead to save my hair wash for my next stopover.

On to my sister’s, which is a nineteenth century beautiful Queen Anne building. There is a shower, but it’s stopped working, as has the cold tap in the bathroom. The hot tap works, but turns the opposite way to other taps, so you have to know this and get in quick with washing your hands before you get scalded. There was early talk with a friend who lives in London of a house swap, but when plans fell through my friend admitted she was slightly relieved. ‘We had no idea how to explain the ins and outs of the hot water system,’ she said, which is apparently as unreliable and fickle as a teenager (though at least you can give it a good thump to get going – potentially as effective but not advised for offspring).

Modern barriers of entry are just as bad – hell hath no fury like a house full of people all attempting to work, study and trawl the socials if the Wi-Fi is down.

Something only people who dwell in cold climates know is that central heating – i.e. heated water running throughout the house into radiators - has to be left on if you go on holiday in winter. This is common knowledge passed on via osmosis but does not exist in any house instruction manual. So, if you are Australians living for a year in the UK, and you’re renting a house, and you go away in winter, prepare to get caught short and be presented with an eye watering bill when the pipes split. Ignorance is no defence. And no, I didn’t remember this quirky foible from my childhood in the UK – I left when I was 24!

Be prepared if staying with an elderly relative in an elderly house as they most likely have been living frugally, ferrying buckets from the well in the garden and hand washing their smalls with aid of a mangle. The best tale of woe I heard was a guy between houses, who pitched up with his family to stay with Great Uncle Ted in his Victorian pile. Turning up the heating in the freezing house alas caused one of the ancient, rusted-in radiators to leak. The spill soaked through the upstairs floor, only discovered when puddles started appearing on the irreplaceable parquet flooring. Luckily, the water found another way through – down the velvet floor length curtains, causing them to shrink. They tried to do some washing in the machine, but it was so old (and disused) the seal had perished, and the kitchen was flooded. Then all the toilets got blocked from overuse – not accustomed to five times their normal flow. Ensuing days were spent removed the ’waste,’ using a metal rod to clear it which then smashed the antique porcelain toilet.

But think of the memories!

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

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

ILLUSTRATION BY GRACE KOPSIAFTIS

ASPECTS

What: Winterfest at the Canopy in Lane Cove. When: July 14 5:30pm

Thanks to photographer Miki Oka

Social Prescribing: an innovative frontier in the provision of healthcare

WORDS: NICOLA RICHES

A

move to address the problems of our time by administering something more than medication is on the brink of shaking up healthcare in Australia.

This month, Australia comes together for Loneliness Awareness Week. Organisers have put together fresh research that shows one in three Australians feel lonely, while one in four shared their experience of persistent loneliness. It’s startling, and a fact that is too close to home for many of us.

Connection and community participation is known to be a social determinant of health. In a 2015 study by Brigham Young University, researchers were able to show that social isolation is linked to mental illness, emotional distress, suicide, the development of dementia, premature death and poor health behaviours (smoking, physical inactivity) and poor sleep – as well as biological effects, including high blood pressure and impaired immune function.

In June this year, health workers from across the spectrum (GPs, psychologists, pharmacists, social workers, nurses and more) attended the EACH24 conference in Sydney that brought into focus local and international developments in a movement called social prescribing, a relatively new way to combat social isolation and drive better health outcomes. Its aims were to share case studies, drive advocacy (at all levels, including state and federal government) and find pathways to permanently embed it into our communities.

and emotional wellbeing. It complements the medical care a person already receives and is a well-established model of care overseas. More than 50 international studies have demonstrated its promising benefits.

The Australian Social Prescribing Institute of Research and Education (ASPIRE) is the driving force behind the conference. Its CEO, Associate Professor JR Baker, explains that good health is not just reliant on hospitals and GP surgeries, and that the need for social prescribing has never been more critical.

“The evidence for the efficacy of social prescribing is robust and growing,” he said. “International models, particularly in the UK and Canada, have shown how effectively this approach can reduce the strain on medical services, improve mental health, and decrease emergency hospital admissions.”

Social prescribing is at a critical juncture in Australia, with many claiming that the time to roll this out on a national level is now.

Who is the prescriber?

• GPs

Social prescribing is a structured, formalised way to link people with long-term health conditions to a range of nonmedical supports and services to help improve their social

The most obvious prescriber would be a local GP, and overseas, there are a multitude of examples where medical centres have started to embed social prescribing into the treatment of their patients. The bond of trust between a GP and their patient provides a sound environment for social prescribing.

Yvonne Zurynski is Professor of Health System Sustainability at Macquarie University. She is supportive of the idea that social prescribing can become part of a doctor's toolkit, but explains that GPs are time poor and often constrained by five-to-eightminute appointment times.

Professor Zurynski said, “It can be hard for GPs to get to grips with the needs of each patient that can be addressed by social prescribing, but making it an intrinsic part of what they do is a fantastic opportunity.”

• SOCIAL WORKERS

Cindy Smith is the CEO of the Australian Association of Social Workers. At EACH24, she explained that social workers will say they have been social prescribing since the profession began.

“They are called case coordinators, or community care workers and there are 46,000 across Australia. Social workers can be the cheerleaders who walk beside people to help them return to health or maintain their health, but there is a shortage and a dire need for more,” she said.

Smith highlighted a very recent pilot study in Canberra where social workers were embedded in medical centres working alongside with GPs to bring social prescribing to life.

“The anecdotal evidence from GPs was that they found it valuable,” she noted. “But there are problems with funding models that allow the pre and post work to be done that can show the true outcomes.”

• PHARMACISTS

Jenny Kirschner has worked as a clinical and retail pharmacist, a health coach and a National Health Programs pharmacist for more than 20 years and has been researching and speaking on social prescribing for over three.

Kirschner believes that “social prescribing can be a powerful early intervention tool and for some, all they need is for someone to help steer them in the right direction. It's an important initiative that pharmacists should be involved in to help reduce the loneliness epidemic - we just need to be properly equipped to do so,” she told journalists.

• NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSES/ CENTRES

There are 1064 community centers/ neighbourhood houses in Australia. Three community hubs are run by Sydney Community Services in Lane Cove and Hunters Hill. NSW boasts 175 in total. Only 12.7 per cent of them are in areas where the total population is between 3000 and 10,000. Although their physical reach is perhaps more limited that we would hope for, their efficacy in social prescribing is already growing.

In 2022, Indigo North Health in Rutherglen, Victoria joined forces with its local community to open Chiltern Neighbourhood House, a place that provides residents a space for their hobbies and activities, training opportunities, allied health services and a community meeting place to generate social connection and a focal point for social prescribing, working in tandem with local health practitioners. Its dementia garden has become a national talking point.

“Neighbourhood centres are perfectly placed to be attuned to the stigma that someone walks in the door with, and how to address that sensitively. For example, there are carers, who would benefit from social prescribing, who do not want to be thought of as carers,” says Neighbourhood Houses Victoria CEO Keir Patterson. “Neighbourhood centres are able to offer consistent, ongoing, personcentred, tailored support.”

Case Studies

The UK and Canada are flush with examples of where social prescribing has been a huge success – funded and stitched into the structure of health networks. Here in Australia, there is building momentum and a burgeoning catalogue of case studies that show the merit of the practice.

Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network (NBMPHN) has been particularly active in this space. In 2019, the Social Connectedness of Older People in the Hawkesbury pilot project, run by NBMPHN, held three community workshops in targeted areas of the region. More than 100 professionals, volunteers and community members participated.

As a result of the workshop outcomes and committee

guidance, three strategies were developed: training of practice nurses in general practice to become ‘health connectors’, the establishment and training for local people to become ‘community connectors’ and the development and promotion of a website directory - My Health Connector – to assist medical professionals to make social prescribing referrals. In 2024 and 2025, the health connectors will continue their work with older patients to refer them to them to non-clinical services and activities.

In the Blue Mountains specifically, a ‘Compassionate Communities’ approach has been adopted where a similar social prescribing solution is being rolled out.

Link Workers and Funding

La Trobe University’s Dr Mofizul Islam has conducted substantial research into the weak links between what he calls the referrer and the navigator (patient/consumer) and surmised that social prescribing can only be successful when there is a dedicated person who accepts the referral from a medical prescriber and works with and on behalf of the patient.

In the UK, this person is known as the link worker, much like the health connectors described above. Link workers there are fully funded and trained by the NHS.

Who funds the link worker was subject of much discussion at the conference. ASPIRE has published extensive information that shows that the federal government is expected to be the main funder, given the way social prescribing aligns with the future directions being contemplated by Medicare, the NDIS and mental health

Lane Cove, we’re here to help.

It can be overwhelming to know where to begin or who to speak to about your finances. But your local CommBank Lane Cove team are here to help. We’re on hand to chat about your unique financial situation, answer your questions and suggest solutions to help meet your needs.

You can also book in for a complimentary CommBank Financial Health Check which will allow us to better understand your goals and explore ways to help you achieve them.

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programs. However, it says there is scope for other funders and investors who could contribute. These include state/ territory governments, business and philanthropic sectors, private health and insurance companies.

A multi-disciplinary approach?

In February this year, Healthicare, a new not-forprofit health organisation, opened a state-of the art Neighbourhood Health Hub in Blacktown in partnership with the Western Sydney Primary Health Network.

Healthicare’s inaugural Clinic Director, Dr Jaspreet Saini, stated, “The community, and the people that care for community, have been waiting too long for an integrated approach to health and social care but today marks a significant milestone on the way to solving that problem together,” he said.

A closing remark

Robyn McBride, a pharmacist and member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia who spoke to us at the conference remarked that "the ideas discussed at EACH24 were so impactful, I found myself questioning why social prescribing not already standard and accepted practice among all health professionals.

“I am imagining the satisfaction of connecting someone with a local club, or issuing a ticket for an Archibald Prize tour, alongside any prescribed medications,” she said. More about social prescribing can be found on the ASPIRE website.

Christina Turner Branch Manager 0491 215 722

Christina.Turner@cba.com.au

Elissa Wang Home Lending Specialist 0460 030 990

Elissa.Wang@cba.com.au

Danielle Crist Business Banker 0439 074 382

Danielle.Crist1@cba.com.au

Q&A Paulene Turner

Paulene Turner is a north shore local and the well-known, award-winning author of the Time Travel Chronicles.

 Can you tell us about the Time Travel Chronicleswhat inspired you and what has kept you so committed to them?

The Time Travel Chronicles is a six-book young adult series. I spent more than a decade writing the series, which travels to five different historical periods and takes 500,000 words to tell.

It features 16-year-old Madison Bryant, who is strong and street-smart and Riley Sinclair, a science genius, from Crows Nest, who travel through history in a time machine.

I’m a former screenwriter and my books are very immersive with a lot of in-the-moment scenes. I wanted my readers to feel the dust in their throat in an Ancient Egyptian tomb, the sting of the sword in a medieval England siege, epic muscle ache after a day riding as cowboys with a Wild West herd, salt on their lips in a storm at sea. It's a high-stakes, fast-paced adventure through time, with history, humour and romance.

Writing the series is the most fun I’ve ever had as a writer, and I hope my readers enjoy reading it as much as I have done writing it.

 As you said, your background is screenplays. Is that something you continue with now, and have any theatre companies put on your works?

I still write and direct plays for the stage for Short and Sweet, Sydney. My recent play, Shakespeare, Where Art Thou? won the 2024 People’s Choice final. I also received a Lane Cove resident award for the script.

I write and direct scenes from my books for social media. You can see some of them on my Tiktok.

 For how long have you been writing? Did you grow up wanting to be a writer?

I’ve always written…stories, plays. And I have worked as a journalist in Sydney and London.

 Both your daughters are writers, and one has also been shortlisted for the LC Literary Awards. Is there some kind of mysterious writing gene running through your family?

We’re a big story family. Reading stories and imagining has always been a thing for us. My daughters studied English at the highest level in high school. One of my

daughters is a journalist now for news.com.au and last year won Young Journalist of the year at Newscorp. They collaborated on a fantasy novel, not yet published, but did an awesome job! We all share a love of drama and analyse everything we watch through our writers’ lens.

 You have a new book in the series coming out. How long did it take to put this one together? Can you tell us about the process between conception and publication?

Black Tides (named by my daughters), is a salty tale of pirates, thieves and buried treasure. It took me about 15 months to write and over a year to edit. I then passed it to my family who give me their honest thoughts. From there, it went to my series editor, an award-winning US writer, whose notes give me a structure for the next round of edits, then to my proofreader who checks for typos, but has a broad historical knowledge and so corrects factual errors as well. I worked on the cover design with an artist from New Zealand, who also lays out the text. Although I’m an indie publisher, I have a strong team around me. And we put out a professional product.

 If you're heading out for coffee and dinner on the lower north shore, where do you go?

I love Encasa, the Spanish restaurant. I also love the Wooden Whisk, for breakfast, in Crows Nest, as well as Small Bar, and Knird is my favourite restaurant.

 Where can we buy your books?

You can buy print or eBooks from Amazon or all major online bookstores. The first four books are available in Lane Cove Library and for sale at Burns Bay Bookery.

Going with the flow

I’m a voracious print media consumer, and my appetite for travel media has no boundaries.

By Adrienne Witteman.

Next year

Trendsetter will take a group on a

CRUISE TOUR

sailing onboard Ponant17/30 August 2025

CONTACT US FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Should I die before my time, I’m sure my family will be relieved to throw out all the travel supplements/magazines/useful articles that form three tidy piles in my lounge, dining room and bedroom still beckoning to be read! “Poor Adrienne, hoarding all this and for what?” they’ll say.

What I missed most during Covid was reading the travel pages but I’m back now. And nothing delights me more than river cruising reviews and stories. For while an ocean cruise is most often a smorgasbord of several countries, river cruising is 90% one country focussed, allowing you a real feel for the country, its history, geography, economy and people.

Also, because a river cruise hugs the shore, there is always something to see whereas sailing in the middle of the ocean could be, well, anywhere.

There are several other points in favour of a river cruise. Not only are the vessels smaller and more intimate, but also you never need worry about seasickness. River ports are not missed due to inclement weather and in an era when every industrial port is also now a cruise terminal, river cruise terminals are usually smack bang in the middle of town and seldom neighboured by log stores or coal piles.

Already this year, I’ve enjoyed a splendid cruise onboard Tauck’s Andorinha from Salamanca to Porto along the Douro River, with our cruise

book-ended by stays in Madrid and Lisbon. Who could want for more? Tapas, Jamon Iberico, Pasteis de Nata (Portuguese Custard Tarts) and Churros, and in the wine department Tempranillo, Albarino, and Port. No wonder my waistline increased (just a bit).

By its very nature, river cruising is so relaxing. However, forget those pictures that show you on your balcony looking out the vineyard-clad hillside. Yes, they exist but, in my experience, there’s usually only one day, at most two, of “scenic cruising” where you loll around drinking in the view. Other times, you are off the ship on guided walks or cycling tours, coaching to a castle or winery or significant monument to deepen your in-country experience.

In September, I’ll be repeating a cruise I did two years ago on the Rhone and Saone from Lyons to Avignon, with pre-cruise touring in Paris and postcruise touring in Uzes, Arles, Avignon and more. It was great then and I don’t expect my enjoyment to be lessened by having done it before – the promised inclusions of a Le Cordon Bleu Paris pastry class, a Provençal lunch at a private ranch in La Camargue, a reception and dinner at Fouquet's followed by a city lights tour of Paris at night, private wine tastings in Beaujolais and Châteaneuf-du-Pape and more has me cutting my calorie intake now in preparation!

Yet my ultimate river journey this year promises to be a Uniworld Nile River Cruise, in late October. I’m so excited about this cruise having had my travelbuds titillated by Ramses and the Gold of the Pharaohs at the Sydney Museum (do go if you have not been, for it is excellent). I’ve never been to Egypt and while a new destination is always exciting, it is all the history and culture that promises much. That, and a ship inspired by Egypt, described as “cruising the Nile in a manner once reserved for queens and pharaohs.”

That will do me. Thank you very much!

I’ve not touched on India, or Peru, or Vietnam, where cruises still await me, but as you can see there is a lot in favour of unpacking once and letting the river lead you there. It’s fun, it’s efficient, it’s cost effective and a wonderful inclusion in your proposed overseas sojourn. And now is the time to be considering your late 2024, or 2025 cruise.

There are myriad options and the deals can be confusing. Don’t hesitate to get in touch should you wish to benefit from my expertise and knowledge.

How an Electric Lightbulb Launched My Copywriting Career

WORDS: LANE COVE’S MAGGIE LAWRENCE

When I was a teenager (a very long time ago) my first job from school was a typist clerk on the Melbourne Age TV/Radio Guide. One day as we were about to go to press, a final proof turned up with a hole in it. The assistant editor suggested I might like to fill the hole with something. I was horrified at the time. What on earth was I going to fill it with?

I clearly remember what she said: ‘You can write, so write something.’

I had no idea what led her to conclude that I could write. I assumed it was because I enjoyed sending her up in little cartoons that I drew of her with funny captions. I learned very early on that this woman who spent a lot of time yelling hysterically at people for the tiniest inefficiencies (even the Editor was intimidated by her), had another side: a brilliant sense of humour. She really enjoyed laughing at herself.

At the time, my favourite pop group was Max Merritt and the Meteors so I called their manager and nervously arranged an interview.

The Assistant Editor was relieved that the hole in the proof was no longer

there, and I was rewarded with my own regular pop music column with the by-line ‘Says Marg’.

Having been launched unexpectedly into a feature writing career on a major Melbourne newspaper, the sensible thing would have been to have built on that. But at 21, I wasn’t sensible. I was itching to do what most unmarried young people did at the time and spend a year in England AKA the Mother Country.

Nine years later and after working mainly in television production and completing a diploma in professional photography, I returned to Melbourne. I had not been doing any writing overseas. It was too long a gap for my

short stint as a feature writer to mean much to anyone. If I wanted to earn money from writing, I had to consider something else.

How a Swiss Cheese Plant Opened a Creative Door

Writing comedy sketches was my real passion and I spent a great deal of my time venting my angst about my life through comedy. I never earned a cent doing this and that caused me to vent even more.

One day I was watching TV and having yet another vent. Although this time it was because the television ads were so bad. I decided then and there that I

would put pen to paper - yes this was even before computers.

I took a real horticultural product and I wrote a funny 30 second commercial about a plant (Monstera Deliciosa, otherwise known as a Swiss Cheese Plant). This plant was not feeling well and much to the amusement of people sitting in the doctor’s waiting room, the plant had joined them hoping that the doctor could make it feel better. The doctor prescribes the horticultural product that I had chosen to advertise, and the plant goes home happy and confident that he will soon be his old self again.

Monstera Deliciosa comes back later on to see the doctor, now so overly fit and healthy he reduces the doctor’s surgery door to a pile of splinters as he crashes through it. I developed a funny line about the product being so effective it needs to be used sparingly.

I was proud of my first ad and decided to develop a whole campaign around the same product. There was a radio version using lots of funny sound effects, and a print ad with a picture of the plant working out in a gym with well-developed abs, etc.

My invented campaigns were put into a folder and I began ringing around the advertising agencies and asking for the Creative Director by name. I discovered from a few early setbacks, that if you phoned up an advertising agency and asked to speak to the creative director, you might as well say to the receptionist, ‘I have never met this person and he or she probably won’t want to hear from me, but I want to get a job in advertising.'

The receptionist’s response would be ‘I’m sorry they’re in a meeting.’

So, when asked who was calling, I would confidently say ‘Maggie Lawrence’. Magically I would be put through by a receptionist obviously assuming you were someone known to her boss. Even if the receptionist announced you first to the Creative Director, the person more often than not may have wrongly assumed that you were someone they should know, and so would take the call. Even if just to be reminded of who the hell you are.

I rang about 12 of the biggest advertising agencies using this

technique, and I was pleasantly surprised at how many Creative Directors actually were prepared to meet me.

My Favorite Dish Was an Electric Light Bulb

One day I got a call back from the Creative Director of one of Melbourne’s largest advertising agencies saying that a trainee position was available for a copywriter at his firm. He wanted to know if I was prepared to start on a low salary until I had proved myself.

I was asked if I would do a writing test that he gave to all the candidates. He made a time to see me and I was given a series of essay questions. He suggested I went home and gave some thought on how to answer two of the questions. I remember being annoyed by them. One of them was ‘Describe your favorite dish in 500 words or less.’ In fact, I was so irritated by having to do this that I am afraid I began to vent again. I decided I didn’t want to work for a company that gave me such a ridiculous test, but I would send him something equally stupid and perhaps he would think again before expecting anyone to do such a silly task.

I wrote an article about how I had discovered a liking for electric light bulbs after being locked in a department store’s bargain basement overnight. I described how the filament was the tastiest part of the light bulb, and lightly sautéed in butter was not only delicious, but a very effective way of flossing your teeth. I wouldn't recommend it by the way. The article was mailed off and I was confident that would be the last I would ever hear from this man.

When I first started in the job I found coming up with ‘the big idea’ very difficult. I mistakenly thought because I had been a journalist and considered myself to be good at writing comedy, that it would be easy for me to write funny TV commercials. However, I had to learn about target audiences, about USP’s (Unique Selling Propositions), the Promise, and learn how to closely follow a client’s brief. But the biggest thing I had to learn was to train my mind to think laterally like I had done with the Swiss Cheese Plant. It was a new skill to master but once I got the hang of this I never looked back.

After just one year of working as a junior copywriter in Melbourne, I got a job as a senior writer for a London advertising agency with nine of my own accounts and earning a small fortune.

It’s a great role for creative people. It’s well-paid, it’s fun, it’s challenging, and you meet all kinds of interesting people. But you also work long hours to impossible deadlines and are often dreaming up your next campaign when you should be in the land of nod or while everybody else is out there having fun with their friends.

I was asked if I would do a writing test that he gave to all the candidates

I sometimes got my best ideas traveling to work on the London underground. One of the Account Directors at the London agency where I was working once said ‘I think we will just put you on the circle line and you can come back when you’ve worked out the campaign.’

To my great surprise I received a letter from him in the mail. I will never forget it. It simply said ‘Dear Maggie, you’ve got the job. Call me. Richard.’

I was told that the questions were deliberately written to test a person’s ability to use their imagination and to think laterally.

Although I did enjoy a lucrative 12year copywriting career, once I turned 43, I began to find it harder to get jobs. I was being interviewed by people in their early twenties, some had never heard of David Ogilvy (considered to be the father of advertising) so I decided to give up advertising to focus on writing screenplays and recently a novel. But I will always be grateful to Monstera Deliciosa that enabled me to work for some of the most creative international agencies including Saatchi and Saatchi and M&C Saatchi.

Fifty Firsts for Fifty Females

– come and be a part of something transformative

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

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

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

This month it is Celeste Ashcroft and her 50 Firsts journey.

Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

My name is Celeste Ashcroft and I’m 52 years old and have lived in Crows Nest for over two years. I’m a Paediatric Occupational Therapist and have owned and run my own Allied Health business helping children with additional needs for 23 years. I’m a mum to three adult children and after divorce five years ago, I took the opportunity to broaden my horizons and create change in my life.

What prompted you to get involved in the 50 Firsts challenge?

As I turned 50, I guess I didn’t want to be ‘old’. I think ‘old’ is more of a mindset than a number. I try and keep physically strong and active, and I wanted to challenge my thinking to be flexible, try new things and not become stuck in my ways as I get older. My friend from university, Julie Donnell, and I used to do abseiling, canyoning, fun runs, travel and lots

of other adventures together, so when she embarked on her 50 Firsts journey, I suggested we try CycleBar in Crows Nest together as I had never done a spin class before. Since then, I’ve continued to do lots of ‘Firsts’…. but I’ve lost count!

Tell us about some of your memorable Firsts?

The first of my ‘50 Firsts’ was inspired by a day trip on a catamaran around Santorini, Greece. I wanted to learn to sail so I could go back to Greece and sail around all the islands! So, I came back to Sydney and did a Competent Crew course and I learnt to sail. Another First was then doing a delivery from Hobart to Sydney across Bass Straight. I’ve also travelled to Antarctica, been snowshoeing, attended a speed dating event, started playing Pickleball, cycled in Central Park, visited Cockatoo Island for the first time, eaten chickens’ feet, had a glass of Dom Perignon and I’m about to go to Paris, France for my first Opening Ceremony of an Olympic

Games! I have plans for so many more Firsts including a tandem paraglide, chartering a yacht and sailing those Greek Islands, walking Cradle Mountain and attending French language school…in France!

How has the 50 Firsts challenge made a difference to your life?

With my 50 years of wisdom, I’ve learnt that time goes so very quickly. Life really is what you live while you’re making plans, so we need to live every day to the full. Doing things for the first time energises me and brings me joy. I love the mental challenge of learning something new, experiencing something different and feeling a little bit of fear too. I practice being comfortable with being a bit uncomfortable because I believe that’s how we grow and learn. We never know what lies ahead and life is fragile. I want to be able to honestly say that if I died tomorrow, I have lived a full life and achieved more than I could have ever imagined!

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

Celeste and Julie at CycleBar

Fighting For A Green Future

FREE DOCUMENTARY SCREENING IN LANE COVE LIBRARY

THURSDAY 29 AUGUST

You are invited to join Jeff Angel, the Executive Director of the Total Environment Centre on Thursday 29 August as he presents the free community screening of Fighting for a Green Future, the TEC’s 1 hour, seven-part riveting documentary about the pivotal victories of the Australian environmental movement. Jeff is a seasoned and well-respected campaigner with over 50 years in the environmental movement and will take part in the 30-minute panel discussion at the end. Refreshments will be served from 6:00pm till the doco starts at 6:30pm, and in a short break, before the event closes at 8:30pm.

Fighting for a Green Future takes you through some of the key wins of the last 50 years in Australia; how passionate Australian environmentalists achieved those wins; what needs to change in society, law, economics and politics; and lessons for the future. It features interviews with outstanding Australian environmentalists, archival footage and vision of our beautiful environment.

The doco. features Tim Flannery (scientist & environmentalist), Bob Carr (former NSW 'green' Premier), Zali Steggal (independent federal MP), Brad Moggridge (Associate Professor & Kamilaroi man), Peter Whish-Wilson (Greens Senator), Laura Wells (marine scientist & model), Murray Hogarth (senior journalist, ex-SMH Env Editor), John Seed (Deep Ecologist), Cerin Loane (EDO Counsel for

Nature), Juniper Riordan (young science activist).

The first four episodes tell the stories of key battles that changed how people viewed the environment. Episodes five and six take a broader view of who and how the voice for nature has been advocated across the spectrum of social, legal, economic, political, first nation, scientific and community spheres. In Episode 7 we ask our participants: what are their hopes and fears for the future?

The event in Lane Cove Library is hosted by two local environmental groups: Lane Cove Sustainability Action Group (LCSAG) and Lane Cove Bushland & Conservation Society, also with a 53-year history of activism. LCSAG is committed to improving our local area in the face of ongoing environmental and climate change challenges. Both groups have been informed by and campaigned alongside the TEC.

The photo published here was featured in a Sydney Morning Herald article in April 2022 showing the local environmental group members protesting the Planning Minister Robert’s scrapping of his predecessor Rob Stokes’ draft planning rules for greener and more sustainable housing development, requiring all developments to mitigate and adapt to the risks of climate change.

www.tec.org.au/fighting_for_a_green_future

Protesters outside the Lane Cove electorate office of Planning Minister Anthony Roberts in April 2022. CREDIT: MARIJS VRANCKEN

Let us organise your group travel

Did you know our team are also group specialists?

Whether it is a mutli-generation leisure trip to Fiji, a conference group of 100’s of employees, or a school and sporting group of 50+ students and teachers, Helloworld Travel Lane Cove are the travel agency for your group travel needs.

Courtney, the Assistant Manager’s previous role was five years working for a large events company. Courtney organised large corporate groups encompassing all aspects of group travel; from transfers, to themed dinners, to team building activities, to conferencing sessions. Debbi, prior to owning the agency also spent a lot of time in groups and events.

You know if you have ever tried to organise a group dinner, let alone an international or domestic travel with others, planning for a group can be extremely complex, time consuming and requires an exceptional attention to detail. There are many moving parts, with trip extensions and variations – but we LOVE this!

Many of our leisure clients, are also both corporate travellers and trust Helloworld Travel Lane Cove to manage their group travel.

“Our extended family has been going on holidays for years, and we have always depended on Helloworld Lane Cove to organise all our travel and accommodation. Our adventure this year was again to Sentosa and ClubMed Bintan – all 17 of us, including children with spouses, and 9 grandchildren from 9 years to 24! All ages voted it a great success. Debbi and her team have always been

reliable on the detail, but also great for ideas on what works for such a diverse group. Debbi also knows how to find value for money. We never go elsewhere for family travel advice”. Ron and Nicola

“Courtney and the team at Helloworld Lane Cove have been amazing helping us organise our company conferences. No task or request was too hard and everything we needed was done without a hassle and well before any deadlines. I would highly recommend Courtney and the team if you want a perfectly executed company conference”. Paul

We work with the local school; St Ignatius College Riverview, as well as local sporting clubs in the Lane Cove area. We have arranged travel for groups travelling to Fiji as a guests of a wedding and a organised a European reunion getaway for an extended family flying from all parts of the globe to unite in Italy.

You can rely on the extensive expertise of Debbi, Courtney and the team to ease the ‘groups’ burden and take the reigns of organising your next group travel booking.

We have exclusive access to agent’s group airfares and accommodation rates, making for more cost effective travel. In addition, not only will the team at Helloworld Lane Cove handle all of the travel arrangements required, but they’re available 24/7 during the group’s travel should any travel changes need to be made.

Let Helloworld Travel Lane Cove do all the hard work for you so you can enjoy the travel experience without the dreaded ‘group’ headache!

• One-way full-service economy flight from Sydney to Tokyo

• 3 night stay at the Grand Nikko Tokyo Daiba HHHH, Tokyo

• Complimentary fully escorted tours including:

¡ Hakone Ropeway Cable Car

¡ Boat trip across Lake Ashi

¡ High-speed bullet train to Tokyo

• 14 night full-board cruise on board Westerdam sailing return from Tokyo

¡ Main meals and entertainment onboard

¡ Overnight in port in Incheon

• All taxes and transfers as per the itinerary

• Overnight one-way full-service economy flight from Tokyo to Sydney

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• One-way full-service economy flight from Sydney to Hanoi

• 3 night stay at the Le Jardin Hotel Haute Couture HHHH, Hanoi including breakfast

• Fully escorted tours of Hanoi city featuring Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Duong Lam Ancient Village and Thay Pagoda

• 1 night full-board luxury cruise on board the Indochine Junk Boat visiting Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay

• 2 night stay in Hue at the Pilgrimage Village Boutique Resort & Spa HHHHH, Hue including breakfast

• Fully escorted Hue city tour

• 3 night stay at Central Boutique Hotel HHHH, Hoi An including breakfast

• Fully escorted tour of Hoi An with cooking demonstration

• 2 night stay at the Grand Hotel Saigon HHHHH, Ho Chi Minh City including breakfast

• Fully escorted tour of Cu Chi Tunnels

• 7 night all-inclusive luxury river cruise on board Mekong Navigator from My Tho to Siem Reap

• 2 night stay at the Tara Angkor Hotel HHHH, Siem Reap including breakfast

• Fully escorted tour of Angkor Archaeological Park

• All taxes and transfers as per the itinerary

• Overnight one-way full-service economy flight from Siem Reap to Sydney

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Overnight one-way full-service economy flight from Sydney to Porto

• 1 night stay at the BessaHotel Boavista HHHH, Porto including breakfast

• 7 night full-board river cruise on board Emerald Radiance return from Porto

¡ Included Excursions include a visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting

¡ Guided tour of Salamanca

¡ Tour to Castelo Rodrigo

¡ Guided tour of Lamego

¡ Guided tour of Porto

• 1 night stay at the Holiday Inn Lisbon – Continental HHHH, Lisbon including breakfast

• 17 night full-board cruise on board Oosterdam from Lisbon to Athens

• 2 night stay at the Athens Tiare Hotel HHHH, Athens including breakfast

• All taxes and transfers as per the itinerary

• Overnight one-way full-service economy flight from Athens to Sydney

19 NIGHT LUXURY JAPAN VOYAGE & CHERRY BLOSSOM DISCOVERY

30 NIGHT DOURO RIVER DISCOVERY, MOROCCO, SPAIN & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE

21 NIGHT LUXURY MEKONG RIVER CRUISE AND VIETNAM & CAMBODIA DISCOVERY

Will-an-thropy: The act of

a gift to charity in your Will

You may already be familiar with the term Philanthropy. Now there is a new buzz word in the world of charitable giving, ‘Willanthropy’, an act by someone who leaves a gift in their Will to charity.

It is a common misconception that only the wealthy can make a meaningful impact through legacy giving in a Will. Willanthropy is something everyone can do. Willanthropy comes in all shapes and sizes, from real estate, shares, or cash to leaving a percentage of your estate to the charity or charities important to you.

Everyone who makes a Will can be a Willanthropist!

At Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation (SCHF), those who become Willanthropists know that leaving a legacy is an act of kindness making a long-lasting and positive impact on countless lives well into the future.

Leaving a gift in a Will, as little as 1%, can make a significant difference to the future of sick kids and help them live their healthiest lives.

Willanthropist Lyn Cecil is a mum of a baby boy who survived thanks to the wonderful care received at Sydney Children’s Hospital, Randwick in

the 1970s. “I’m a retired Mum. I may not be in the position to make a significant donation today, but through my Will, I can in the future.”

By leaving a gift in your Will to SCHF, you can help fund groundbreaking research, purchase vital cutting-edge equipment, and enable SCHF to continue its mission to ensure worldclass health care for kids.

“Bequests gifts are a lifeline for children and families and a wonderful legacy to leave for the next generation.” Said Willanthropist Emeritus Professor, Kim Oates AO, former Chief Executive, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. SCHF has partnered with Gathered Here, one of Australia’s most trusted online Will writing services. Writing your Will online with Gathered Here is completely free. Follow the easy step-by-step process and in just 10 minutes, you can create your online Will, leaving a legacy that will impact kids’ health, long into the future.

Council Update August 2024

Winter Nature Fun

Winter is a great time to get outside and explore Lane Cove’s beautiful bushland reserves and parks.

There are several easy bush walking tracks that are accessible for the whole family. A few of the favourites are Stringybark Reserve in Lane Cove North, Shell Park in Greenwich and Tambourine Bay Park in Riverview.

Tambourine Bay Park is more accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, with a paved track through part of the park. Also, the bush track is flat and is partially covered with a boardwalk.

The cooler weather in winter means walking is comfortable and there is always something to discover in nature. So, grab your family and get outside into nature this winter.

For more information head to: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushwalking

And for more family nature fun inspiration, go to lanecove.nsw.gov/ bushkids and book on a Lane Cove Bush Kids activity.

BOOK YOUR FREE COLLECTION

Did you know Council’s doorstop recycling service provider is called HomeCycle?

HomeCycle offers a free and easy way for Lane Cove residents to recycle and repurpose items that don’t belong in household bins. HomeCycle collect soft plastics, e-waste, textiles, batteries and more. Making a booking is easy; simply visit www.homecycle.com.au/lanecove

Lane Cove Citizenship Awards

We recently held our annual Citizenship Awards Presentation to acknowledge the exceptional contributions and achievements of our local community.

We also presented our Neighbour Day Awards to residents making a difference in our local area.

Congratulations to each and every one of our deserving recipients and to the friends, family and peers who have supported them on their journey.

Join Council’s Backyard Habitat program!

Are you interested in doing more gardening in your backyard?

If you’d like to create a habitat garden for native plants and wildlife, Council’s Backyard Habitat program can help you – no matter what size or shape your garden is in.

If you’re interested in free advice and native plants to make your backyard wildlife-friendly, call 9911 3654 or email backyardhabitat@lanecove. nsw.gov.au

Image by P Katelaris

Cove Festival

Winter comes to an end with the start of the Lane Cove Festival. Running throughout September, the Festival celebrates all that is great about living in this Local Government Area. There will be music, children’s activities, concerts, exhibitions and more. Check out Council’s social media or website for more details.

Tambourine Bay Park, Riverview

Lane Cove Festival Launch

Lane Cove Citizen of the Year: Lindsay May OAM

Lane

What’s on Lane Cove August 2024

ABC Animal Walk

– Lane Cove Bush Kids

Friday 9 August, 9:45am to 11:15am, Blackman Park

Encourage your preschooler to learn their ABCs and discover the Aussie animal alphabet. We'll go on an ABC bushwalk, match animals with letters and get creative with letters and nature craft.

Age: 2-5 years.

Cost: $10.85 + booking fee.

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

Crafters Corner @ Lane Cove

Thursday 13 August, 10:00am –12:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Beginners and experienced knitters are welcome to this monthly meet-up to knit squares for Wrap with Love. Otherwise, you are welcome to work on your own craft project. This is a drop-in session. Free event. No bookings required.

Military History talk –Battle of Dien Bien Phu –Indochina

Tuesday 13 August, 6:15pm – 8:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Join Lieutenant David Wilson (Retd) as he discusses the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, arguably one of the most influential battles of modern times in South-East Asia, which lasted for 178 days between late November 1953 and early May 1954. Free event.

Bookings essential: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/library

River Life: Lane Cove Bush Kids

Wednesday 14 August, 9:45am to 11:15am, Blackman Park

Who lives along Lane Cove River? Join us to learn about and celebrate life along the river. We'll read a story, go on a bush walk, have some water fun and create our own river nature craft.

Age: 2-5 years.

Cost: $10.85 + booking fee.

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

In Conversation with Sally Jane Smith – Packing for Greece

Wednesday 14 August, 2:00pm – 3:30pm, Lane Cove Library

Sally Jane Smith has lived on five continents and visited thirty-three countries, but she gives credit to Greece for turning her into a writer. This is the story that became the ‘Packing for Greece’ series.

Books will be available to purchase on the day.

Free event.

Bookings essential: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/library

Poets in Residence

Monday 26 August, 6:00pm to 7:30pm, Lane Cove Library

Interested in writing poetry? Join our Lane Cove Poets in Residence group to discuss your writing and share poetry.

Poetry group meets on the last Monday of each month.

Free event. No bookings required.

Weaving Stories Project

Join the Weaving Climate Stories project, to participate in activities designed to bring people together and build understanding about the world we live in and our place within it.

With a range of courses and workshops on offer, including a filmmaking course, weaving, climate leadership and intergenerational workshops for youth and seniors, there is something for everyone.

This project is proudly funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government.

Find out more: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/weavingstories

My Cancer Journey

Each year, about 410 Australians are diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL). Of these, more than half are children and adolescents aged under 20, although ALL can occur at any age. I know this, as I am a cancer survivor. This year marks the twenty-year anniversary of my diagnosis.

In children, ALL is one of the most common cancers. Thankfully it has a high cure rate, with approximately 90% five-year survival after treatment. This drops to about 65% survival for those diagnosed age 15-39 years, and down to 20% survival in those first diagnosed 40 years or older.

I have seen this first-hand. Many of the fellow patients that I would get to know over my time in the cancer hospital wards sadly did not survive.

I was diagnosed with advanced-stage mixed acute lymphoblastic leukaemia and lymphoma, a cancer of the blood cells and lymph system. It is not a relatively common cancer, when compared to the cancer leaders in Australia – breast, bowel, prostate, lung and skin cancers. My specific type of cancer was even rarer, occurring at an incidence of 1 in 200,000 people. I guess you could call it ‘lucky’. This all occurred in the middle of my medical school training.

As a doctor now, I have grown accustomed to breaking bad news to my patients. Explaining medical conditions. Discussing treatment options. Detailing possible life expectancies. Supporting them through their battles. Being on the other side and on the receiving end of bad news is never easy. Its completely individual and its different for everyone. One’s reaction is shaped by many things, including one’s life stage, upbringing, life experiences and religious beliefs. I remember feeling numb at receiving my unexpected bad news, and it would take me a long time to really process it.

cancer cells but the collateral damage is that it also kills the good cells along the way. The big danger for chemotherapy patients is that their immune system that normally protects them, is now damaged from the treatments, making it difficult to fight off other dangers. During treatment periods, catching simple common colds could now be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Even slightly high temperatures would send me back to hospital for safety precautions. Dangerously low platelet level counts meant a simple head knock could cause brain bleeding. There was also the foreboding worry of treatments failing, and having to resort to more difficult paths like bone marrow transplantation. It wasn’t an easy journey but a necessary one.

My specific type of cancer was even rarer, occurring at an incidence of 1 in

200,000 people

I can recall the whirlwind events which probably were a blur for me at the time. That’s when the gravity of my situation began to hit home. Chemotherapy had to start urgently. I had to suspend all my medical studies indefinitely. I had to take fertility measures for future family planning before I started treatments. I remember there wasn’t even really time to process these life-altering change of events. Everything had happened so fast.

The treatments were complicated and challenging, taking years to complete. Intensive hours-long chemotherapy - both intravenously and injected into around my spinal cord were regular occurrences. The medications made me bloated, lose all my hair, gave me mouth ulcers making eating very painful, and gave me nerve pains in my hands and feet. Chemotherapy works by attempting to kill all the

But it was not all hardship and I have kept many fond memories from this period of my life. I remember my Mum’s unswerving belief throughout that I would get better (she is not medically trained, but just mum-trained) and my Dad’s on-call/pre-UBER driving to get me to and from hospital, no matter what the time of day. Another time, being tired of endless hospital food and craving barbeque Chinese duck, I remember my sister smuggling into hospital a whole duck for me to eat (I regretted the next day eating too much). I remember the supportive nursing staff who were always there for their patients, for allowing me to have day-passes out of hospital once my chemotherapy daily course had finished, and allowing me to come back into hospital, often very late at night. I remember the conversations with other cancer patients and the shared journeys we had during the long hospital stays. I remember all the support of friends, and family who called or came to visit, and the well-wishes card and books they gave me to keep me occupied and sane (the pre-iPhone era!) which I have still all kept to this day. I remember the love and support of my church and my Christian faith to get me through the hard times.

Since my cancer diagnosis, I have been blessed to be married, have a family, and do a job that I love that allows me to help others. To be honest, nowadays I try not to dwell on this stage of my life too much. Maybe time has diluted my feelings on the subject. I occasionally mention my cancer battle to my patients if I feel my journey may benefit them in some way. I am fortunate to be a cancer survivor. This is my story.

Dr Carl Wong is a Lane Cove-based GP and sits on the board of Sydney Community Services.

Ryde Band Honouring 140 Years of Music in the Community

Since its inception in 1884, Ryde Band has been an important part of the musical heritage within the City of Ryde.

Originating as a marching brass band, it has evolved into a vibrant community concert ensemble. For an impressive 90 years, Ryde Council has persistently supported this valuable cultural asset, recognising its role in the city's fabric. Led by dedicated musical directors throughout its history, Ryde Band has been a part of both local and national festivities. From performances during the Sudan War in 1885 to the Ryde coronation celebrations for King Edward VII in 1902, and the laying of the Foundation Stone of Mt St Margaret Hospital in 1904, the band has played a vital role in Ryde's history.

In a testament to civic pride, Ryde Council erected an impressive band rotunda in Ryde Park in 1934, commemorating the band's 50th anniversary and reaffirming its commitment to the arts. Following World War II, increased funding ensured the band's regular performances at the iconic Ryde Park

rotunda, entertaining community audiences with their musical talent. Today, Ryde Band continues to flourish with Ryde Council's patronage and Create NSW generous support, delighting audiences at Eastwood shopping mall, ANZAC day events, community concerts, church fetes, and at year’s end with their tradition

The NORTH Foundation is the charity partner of your local healthcare services including Royal North Shore Hospital, Ryde Hospital and many more.

Your health district is also home to the research organisation in NSW

Support the future of healthcare with a tax-deductible donation to cancer services, mental health programs, aged-care or renal

Simone’s life has been profoundly impacted by cancer. Her mother battled multiple myeloma for a decade before passing away at 45 and three of her four siblings also had cancer. In 2012, Simone faced her own breast cancer diagnosis, enduring a double mastectomy and reconstructive surgeries while navigating life as a single parent.

More recently, Simone has confronted additional diagnoses (bowel, liver, and lung cancers) - each requiring intensive treatments that have tested her physical and emotional resilience.

Losing her long, curly hair added to her hardships, but finding support at the Wig Library at Royal North Shore Hospital helped restore her confidence.

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

“The treatment has been challenging. Chemo is going through my whole body, and it’s affected my skin, nails, and hair,” said Simone.

Despite ongoing challenges, Simone remains positive and approaches each day with strength. She will continue having fortnightly treatments and get the help and support she needs from her healthcare team at Royal North Shore Hospital.

“I am determined to keep on fighting like a warrior and beat this hideous disease once again,” said Simone.

Support Simone and others facing their own cancer battles by donating to the NORTH Foundation today.

The NORTH Foundation is the charity partner of your local hospitals and healthcare services and your donation will help to provide resources and services that make a meaningful difference to the lives of those navigating cancer treatment.

district is also home to the oldest medical research organisation in NSW, the Kolling Institute. Support the future of healthcare with a tax-deductible donation to cancer services, mental health programs, aged-care or renal research - whatever area of health that matters the most to you.

northfoundation.org.au

Bowlo 1928

Ryde East Family & Friends Concert 2023

of Christmas Carols-On-The-Corner.

As an integral part of the community, the band takes to the stage in kicking off celebrations for the annual Granny Smith Festival, embodying the spirit of harmony and fellowship through music.

As Ryde Band celebrates its remarkable 140th anniversary this year, we reflect on its enduring legacy. For over a century, the band has enriched the lives of Ryde residents and visitors alike through music.

Joining Ryde Band is not merely about making music; it is about becoming part of a celebrated tradition, experiencing the joy of musical collaboration, and contributing to the enduring legacy of community connection that defines Ryde Band.

In recognition of this milestone, a special 140th Anniversary Commemorative Concert will be taking place Sunday September 15th, 2024 at 2:30pm at the North Ryde RSL Club. Monthly performances will continue this year throughout Ryde at Eastwood Plaza and other community venues, ensuring that the Ryde Band's heritage receives the appreciation it so richly deserves. Consult the City of Ryde Events listing at www.ryde.nsw. gov.au/Events/Listing

Ryde Band has also recently kicked off a new Adult Beginner Band Program which is targeted primarily toward adults eager to learn or return to playing musical instruments. There has been an enthusiastic response from our new students who are currently going through structured

training sessions starting from the most fundamental level.

With instruments available for hire, prospective musicians can explore their musical interests. Everyone is welcome and can join at any time!

For more information visit Ryde Band’s website rccb.org.au

Community Recycling Centres

Ryde Band rotunda

What’s the difference between ‘man flu’ and flu?

Hint: MEN MAY NOT BE EXAGGERATING

WORDS: THEA VAN DE MORTEL

(Professor, Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University)

The term “man flu” takes a humorous poke at men with minor respiratory infections, such as colds, who supposedly exaggerate their symptoms.

According to the stereotype, a man lies on the sofa with a box of tissues. Meanwhile his female partner, also with a snotty nose, carries on working from home, doing the chores and looking after him.

But is man flu real? Is there a valid biological reason behind men’s symptoms or are men just malingering? And how does man flu differ from flu?

What are the similarities?

Man flu could refer to a number of respiratory infections – a cold, flu, even a mild case of COVID. So, it’s difficult to compare man flu with flu.

But for simplicity, let’s say man flu is actually a cold. If that’s the case, man flu and flu have some similar features.

Both are caused by viruses (but different ones). Both are improved with rest, fluids, and if needed painkillers, throat lozenges or decongestants to manage symptoms.

Both can share similar symptoms. Typically, more severe symptoms such as fever, body aches, violent shivering and headaches are more common in flu (but sometimes occur in colds). Meanwhile sore throats, runny noses, congestion and sneezing are more common in colds. A cough is common in both.

What are the differences?

Flu is a more serious and sometimes fatal respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. Colds are caused by various viruses such as rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, and common cold coronaviruses, and are rarely serious.

Colds tend to start gradually while flu tends to start abruptly.

Flu can be detected with laboratory or at-home tests. Man flu is not an official diagnosis.

Severe flu symptoms may be prevented with a vaccine, while cold symptoms cannot.

Serious flu infections may also be prevented or treated with antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu. There are no antivirals for colds.

OK, but is man flu real?

Again, let’s assume man flu is a cold. Do men really have worse colds than women? The picture is complicated.

One study, with the title “Man flu is not a thing”, did in fact show there were differences in men’s and women’s symptoms.

This study looked at symptoms of acute rhinosinusitis. That’s inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses, which would explain a runny or stuffy nose, a sinus headache or face pain.

When researchers assessed participants at the start of the study, men and women had similar symptoms. But by days five and eight of the study, women had fewer or less-severe symptoms. In other words, women had recovered faster.

But when participants rated their own symptoms, we saw a somewhat different picture. Women rated their symptoms worse than how the researchers rated them at the start, but said they recovered more quickly.

All this suggests men were not exaggerating their symptoms and did indeed recover more slowly. It also suggests women feel their symptoms more strongly at the start.

Why is this happening?

It’s not straightforward to tease out what’s going on biologically.

There are differences in immune responses between men and women that provide a plausible reason for worse symptoms in men.

For instance, women generally produce antibodies more efficiently, so they respond more effectively to vaccination. Other aspects of women’s immune system also appear to work more strongly.

So why do women tend to have stronger immune responses overall? That’s probably partly because women have two X chromosomes while men have one. X chromosomes carry important immune function genes. This gives women the benefit of immune-related genes from two different chromosomes.

Independent Councillor

Oestrogen (the female sex hormone) also seems to strengthen the immune response, and as levels vary throughout the lifespan, so does the strength of women’s immune systems.

Men are certainly more likely to die from some infectious diseases, such as COVID. But the picture is less clear with other infections such as the flu, where the incidence and mortality between men and women varies widely between countries and particular flu subtypes and outbreaks.

Infection rates and outcomes in men and women can also depend on the way a virus is transmitted, the person’s age, and social and behavioural factors.

For instance, women seem to be more likely to practice protective behaviours such as washing their hands, wearing masks or avoiding crowded indoor spaces. Women are also more likely to seek medical care when ill.

So men aren’t faking it?

Some evidence suggests men are not over-reporting symptoms, and may take longer to clear an infection. So they may experience man flu more harshly than women with a cold.

So cut the men in your life some slack. If they are sick, gender stereotyping is unhelpful, and may discourage men from seeking medical advice.

THIS ARTICLE WAS ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON THE CONVERSATION.

Both inside and outside of the council, Bridget devotes her time to initiatives that foster community connection. She was the 2018 'Lane Cove Citizen of the Year' in recognition of her community service.

As a community-focused independent, she's best placed to serve you. Her decisions are shaped purely by the interests of locals, rather than personal ambition or the agenda of a political party.

“I’m running again because I’m passionate about my work for Lane Cove residents and businesses. A vote for me is a vote to keep community interests at the heart of Lane Cove Council decisions.”

Find out more about Bridget and her first term on council at www.bk4lc.com/achievements

www.bk4lc.com.au

Councillor Bridget Kennedy is a committed and passionate advocate for people and the environment.

Bridget

Authorised by Peter Carroll, 19 Seville St, Lane Cove NSW 2066

BEANIE NACHOS

SERVES 6

PREP TIME 10 minutes

COOK TIME 30 minutes CONTAINS DAIRY VEGETARIAN FREEZER FRIENDLY

Our take on nachos is a crowd pleaser. This recipe is jam-packed with veggies, protein and iron-rich kidney beans. From the crunchy corn chips to the gooey melted cheese, every bite is sure to please. Topped with creamy avocado and zesty salsa, it is a fun dinner option or party dish that all ages will enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 sweet potato, peeled and roughly chopped

1 zucchini (courgette), roughly chopped

1 onion, diced

½ head of garlic, trimmed

345 ml (11½ fl oz) tomato passata (puréed tomatoes)

425 g (15 oz) tin kidney beans, drained and rinsed

200 g (7 oz) corn chips

½ cup grated cheddar cheese

Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).

In a small bowl, coat the sweet potato, zucchini, onion and garlic with extra-virgin olive oil and dried basil then transfer to a baking tray lined with baking paper. Bake for 20 minutes or until the veggies are soft and cooked through.

Add the roasted veggies back into the bowl and mash them well with a fork.

Add the passata and kidney beans to the bowl and stir to combine.

To assemble the nachos, spread the corn chips out on a baking tray lined with baking paper and cover with the bean mix. Top with grated cheese and bake for 10–15 minutes until the chips are nice and crispy and the cheese is gooey and bubbling.

TO SERVE Guacamole (page 255), cherry tomatoes, squeeze of lime, coriander (cilantro) and yoghurt.

SWAPSIES You could swap out the corn chips for homemade roasted sweet potato slices.

STORAGE Store the nacho sauce in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

GALLERY LANE COVE

Divided

21 August – 14 September

“In a world divided by tribe, religion, and ideology, art can be the shawl that covers our differences.” - attrib. to Yo-Yo Ma.

Divided presents works that speak to the current and unfortunately ongoing polarisation of discourse that has moved beyond the political sphere and is rapidly permeating all aspects of public life. Since the early 2010’s, observers have noted that the noise emanating from both sides of the extreme political spectrum are overshadowing moderate and diverse voices. Divided aims to create a space for reflection and dialogue, using art as a medium to bridge divides and fostering understanding. Works in the exhibition highlight the artists’ concerns and commentary around tribalism, censorship, genocide, patriarchy and political conflict.

Opening Event: Wednesday 28 August, 6-8pm

Lane Cove Art Award 2024 18 September – 6 October

The Lane Cove Art Award is open to all Australian residents, and is conducted by Lane Cove Council in conjunction with the Lane Cove Art Society.

Opening Event: Friday 20 September, 6-8pm

The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir

by Sandie Docker

The Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir by Sandie Docker has been recently released and I cannot think of a more appropriate book to showcase here. I absolutely adored it!

Just to be completely transparent, I am one of the people the novel is dedicated to, I get to work along side Sandie Docker as part of The Northern Beaches Readers Festival, but I honestly believe this made me more critical rather than less. And even though my name is in it, I believe it is the best Sandie Docker novel yet. It would be remiss of me not to spotlight it here today.

This is Sandie's sixth novel. I have been a fan since first picking her up in 2018. I adore the sense of places, the communities she creates, the mysteries...they are beautiful reads. They will always make me cry and I will always come away having thought deeply about something; in this novel it was single motherhood, new starts, homelessness, intergenerational trauma, racism and prejudices…lots of big feels, but all wrapped up in beautiful scenery and communities full of people I know… and there will inevitably be a Hugh Jackman reference or two.. You don’t know where or when but there always seems to be a cameo.

Her 2024 release the Lyrebird Lake Ladies Choir simply gave me goosebumps. We meet single mother Hannah and her son Leo, homeless through no fault of their own. It is so heartbreaking to witness Hannah try to create good memories for her son and turn such a tragic turn of events into an adventure. We watch as she sings him to sleep one night in the car and on a whim find and visit the town mentioned in the lullaby. There she meets sisters Eleanor and Maggie who are struggling with their own issues and memories…I won't give any more away. But it is a beautiful read, such a comforting sense of community- Lyrebird Lake becomes such a haven for Hannah and Leo.

I loved it and know you will too.

My Anticipated August Reads

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

Girl Falling HAYLEY SCRIVENOR

The Venice Hotel TESS WOODS

Here One Moment LIANE MORIARTY

There Are Rivers in the Sky

ELIF SHAFAK

What I watched on TV…

STEVE, OUR REGULAR TV REVIEWER IS AWAY, ENJOYING A WARM SOJOURN OVERSEAS. EDITOR NICOLA STEPS IN AND BRINGS YOU THREE REVIEWS IN HIS PLACE.

The Bear – Season 3 (Disney)

The Bear came away loaded with awards after Seasons 1 and 2, and off the back of that, the creators have seemingly rushed to market with season 3 (and 4 waiting in the wings, apparently). Seasons 1 and 2 – a combination of intense, incredible drama, ASMR and ‘food porn’ (for wont of a better term) – were hard to beat. The common complaint with Season 3 is that it leaves too much unsaid and unresolved. Close observation might say otherwise: Carmy and Sydney’s closing scenes, albeit silent, disclose so much the physical details. Best episodes for me were ‘Ice Chips’ when Sugar goes into labour with her mother (Jamie Lee Curtis) alongside her, and ‘Napkins’ that explores the back story of Sous Chef Tina who found a new career aged 50. If you watch one thing this year, make sure it’s this.

Colin From Accounts (Foxtel)

Season 2 has just been released, and it’s a perfect follow-up to the show that sees couple Gordon and Ash blunder their way through work, friendships and family relations and most significantly, their relationship with each other.

Written by Harriet Dyer (who plays Ash, and is married to real life Gordon, Patrick Brammall), it cleverly explores contemporary ideas about gender, relationships, the outlooks of older and younger generations, and everything in between without judgement. More than that though, it is hilarious. The best Australian comedy on TV right now.

My Family (ABC iView/Foxtel)

Until very recently, this was my guilty secret – a late 90s/early 2000s BBC show about a family of five living in West London. Ben Harper (Robert Linsday) plays a suburban dentist married to Susan (Zoe Wannamaker). The show portrays them living with their three kids, who over 11 seasons, get older, and ultimately fly the nest. It was my guilty secret until my husband owned up to liking it (only a few days back), and I read the online reviews and discovered that it’s adored. The early episodes are particularly funny – in a slapstick, very British way. One banal, stupid thing leads to another, which led me to crying with laughter on the sofa.

100 Words

The barista smiled and took my order:

Me: “An almond sticky chai please, extra hot”.

Barista: “What is your name, for the order?”

Me: (with a slight sense of trepidation) “Perihan”.

Barista: “Terry-ha?”.

Me: “Perihan. P-e-r-i-h-a-n”.

Barista: “Barry-hun?”

Me: “Uh…Peri-han, like the Han Dynasty”.

Barista: (looking puzzled) “Are you Korean?”

Me: “It’s Turkish…I’m part Turkish”.

Barista: “I’ve always wanted to visit Istanbul and see the Grand Bazaar”.

Me: “Yeah, it’s an interesting place” (then stepping aside for the next customer).

Barista: (five minutes later) “Almond sticky chai for… Piranha!”

Perihan Bozkurt, Lane Cove

The theatre was packed. Hector the Great began to pull the blade down through the centre of the transparent box. A willing lady from the audience was happy to oblige and become his assistant for his last trick of the day. She lay calmly inside. Suddenly someone shrieked from the front row as blood began dripping onto the stage. Within seconds, a piercing cry came from the wings: “You idiot, you forgot to engage the safety catch. I thought I didn’t have to remind you as you have done this trick so many times in the past.”

Jenny England

Do you have a 100 word story?

Email: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

It’s the relationships we remember…

Of the countless funerals I’ve attended or led, it’s the relationships we remember most.

LIAM MCKENNA, COMMUNITY CHAPLAIN

Yes, we’ll hear tales of achievement, of jobs hard-won –or lost, of joys and of struggle. At their heart are the relationships (both good and not-so-good), that have been forged and given expression by the simple, though profound, act of gathering together to remember, to celebrate, to ‘send them on their way.’

We see time and again that it’s the relationships that matter most.

Today, I’m attending my own funeral. We’ll it’s a funeral of sorts. I’m dying-to-self in preparation for my ordination as a minister of religion in the Uniting Church –a life-long, whole-of-life commitment to a ministry serving others.

Concerning the why and how and what and who of ministry, One image keeps surfacing: A table that is round. It will take some sawing to be round-tabled, some refining and designing.

Some re-doing and re-birthing of narrow-long Churching can painful be for people and tables.

It would mean no daising and throning, for but one king is there, and he was a foot washer, at table no less.

And what of narrow-long ministers when they confront a roundtable people, after years of working up the table to finally sit at its head, only to discover that the table has been turned round?

They must be loved into roundness, for God has called a People, not ‘them and us.’

‘Them and us’ are unable to gather round, for at a roundtable, there are no sides and all are invited to wholeness and to food. At one time our narrow-long churches were built to resemble the cross but it does no good for buildings to do so, if lives do not.

Round-tabling means no preferred seating, no first and last, not better, and no corners for the ‘least of these.’

Round-tabling means being with, a part of, together, and one. It means room for the Spirit and gifts and disturbing profound peace for all.

We can no longer prepare for the past.

We will and must and are called to be Church --the people, And if He calls for other than roundtable we are bound to follow. Leaving the sawdust and chips, designs and redesigns behind, in search of and in the presence of the kingdom that is His and not ours. – A POEM BY CHUCK

LATHROP.

I’LL SEE YOU ON THE OTHER ‘SIDE’…

Responding to need in loving service is one of the things we do. Want to know more? Come and join the conversation where all are welcome, and all means ALL.

Liam McKenna

Lane Cove Community Chaplain

P: 0404 596 592

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

Supported by Lane Cove Uniting Church

Lane Cove Theatre Company presents Radium Girls

BY D.W GREGORY DIRECTED BY KATHY PETRAKIS

In 1926, radium was a miracle cure, Madame Curie an international celebrity, and luminous watches the latest rage until the girls who painted them began to fall ill with a mysterious disease. Inspired by a true story, Radium Girls, written by D.W. Gregory, follows the story of Grace Fryer, a dial painter in Orange, New Jersey, as she fights for her day in court.

Based on real events unfolding in the 1920s, the play tells the stories of young women employed in the watch factories featuring timepieces with the newly popular luminous dials. The glow-in-the-dark watch faces are popular and fashionable, and the women hold well-paying positions. All seems to be pointing to hopeful futures for the women, but soon they begin to fall ill with a mysterious illness which has terrifying symptoms. The play is inspired by Grace Fryer, herself a dial painter, whose efforts to fight for her day in court are blocked by her idealistic former employer who cannot bring himself to believe the same element which shrinks tumours can possibly be causing the suffering of his employees. The play calls into focus issues of corporate responsibility and environmental safety, which are just as important today.

By arrangement with Origin Theatrical Australia on behalf of Samuel French Ltd.

9-25 August 2024 at The Performance Space @ St Aidan's 1 Christina Street, Longueville

Tickets $30 / $25 conc / $23 groups 10+ / add $10 cheeseplate/$8 dessertplate

Online booking https://www.trybooking.com/CNBYI

For review tickets, interviews, photos, bios and all other enquiries contact Rachael at Lane Cove Theatre Company on 0414991006, email lctcpromotions@gmail.com

Advertise with The Village Observer and support your local community. For enquiries, or to book your advert, please contact: advertising@thevillageobserver.com.au

Martin Boyd Pottery at Ryde

WORDS: CHRISTINE SANDERSON RYDE DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Martin Boyd Pottery was one of the most significant of the commercial potteries which began operating in Sydney after the Second World War. It flourished in Ryde for 14 years in a former bakery within Burrows Park at 32 Princes Street, Ryde providing employment for many local women.

The pottery was established by Guy Boyd with his friends Leonard and Norma Flegg, and began its commercial operation in Cremorne in the Flegg’s backyard garage in 1946. It is not clear whether the name “Martin Boyd Pottery” took its name from Guy Martin Boyd’s middle name or from his uncle, the novelist Martin Boyd.

Guy Boyd was a member of the well-known artistic Boyd family, and his father William Merrick Boyd, a potter himself, was producing items for domestic use during the 1920s and 30s which were decorated with Australian flora and fauna. While Guy Boyd was training as a sculptor at the East Sydney Technical College after the war, he began the company in order to provide himself and the partners with a source of income.

By 1948 the pottery had become economically viable, and having outgrown several premises, it began production in the Ryde district from 1951 when an existing building and 2 ½ acres at 32 Princes Street, Ryde was purchased. The original factory was built by Golden Harvest Pty Ltd as a bakery in order to produce fruit cakes for overseas purchase, but had closed down because of the competition from large factory monopolies and the emergence of self-service shopping.

At the time of the move to Ryde, Guy Boyd sold his interest to Leonard Flegg’s brother, Ron and left the company in order to practice as a sculptor in Melbourne. The business was then organised on a semi-industrial rather than craft model, becoming a private company in 1957.

Until it closed down in 1965 the thriving enterprise provided employment for over eighty practitioners who did the throwing, fettling, firing and painting. Also, there were at least twenty, mostly married women, who were responsible for the decorating, with each woman having her own specialty. They were mainly aged in their 40s and 50s, and were usually graduates of either the East Sydney Technical College or the Julian Ashton Art School.

Among the items produced by the pottery were plates, ashtrays, mugs, coffee sets, soup bowls and ramekins, all individually painted with brightly coloured designs. These designs included ballerinas, Mexican scenes, cottage scenes and ships, wildflowers and Aboriginal figures.

The pottery frequently supplied David Jones and other major department stores, and produced special wares that would include seasonal themes and commemorative events in fashionable colours.

Although pieces from the Martin Boyd pottery were popular, functional and inexpensive, the pottery could not compete in a competitive market and closed in 1965. The building was purchased by Ryde Council in 1968 and became the clubhouse for the Ryde-Hunters Hill District Hockey Club until 2001.

The building was vacant from that time, and while in 2005 Ryde Council acknowledged that the building had cultural heritage value because of its use as the Martin Boyd Pottery Workshop, it was structurally unsound and in a dilapidated state by that time, and had been the subject of vandalism. In order for it to be used as a community facility it would require re-roofing, as well as replacement and reconstruction of all areas. The decision was made therefore to demolish the building.

There is now open space where the building once stood, but remnants of the Blue Gum High Forest along Buffalo Creek still remain as well as the giant peppercorn trees still hanging low over the long drive.

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

FURTHER INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND AT : www.rydehistory.org.au.

The Dry

BY JENNY ENGLAND

Itook my sparkling mineral water and a bowl of deep-fried locust wings from the bar and rejoined Bailey in the quiet beer garden, remembering how it used to once buzz with chatter, laughter and music. It was one of my favourite outings: a brief catch-up with my gorgeous grandson.

“This is my last one here this month,” I said as I sat down, “I’m now out of ration coupons.”

“Me too,” he replied holding up his half-finished glass of beer.

I offered him some locust wings. He shook his head.

“I know,” I began, “they are an acquired taste, definitely not the same as a bowl of peanuts or a packet of potato chips.”

It was hard getting used to the only

foods that were available since The Dry began to wipe out most of our agriculture. Thank heavens there were some local far-thinking farmers who began to substitute their traditional crops of fruit and vegetables and livestock to more drought-resistant sustainable varieties.

“I’m still angry with the government for what they let happen to our food supply,” Bailey began to rant, “they should have done much more, much earlier. There were plenty of warning signs of the potential devastating effects of Climate Change many years before The Dry.”

I took a few sips of the refreshing mineral water and nodded in agreement. Despite the efforts of the far-thinking farmers any kind of meat, even from those we once thought vermin and the diminishing stocks of feral camel and goat were still difficult to obtain and oceanic fish supplies were getting desperately low. It was the same for most fruit and vegetables and other once stable crops.

“How’s the job hunting?” I quizzed him, changing the subject, as any discussion these days concerning Climate Change could become quite

intense even between friends and family.

“Slow,” he replied, “there isn’t much demand for landscape gardeners these days. It was the only thing I ever wanted to do.”

“I’ve heard the Desalination Plant is recruiting again as they expand to meet the never-ending demand for clean drinkable water. The shifts are long but they pay well and you get extra water vouchers,” I suggested in an effort to be as supportive as I could.

“I’ll look into it,” Bailey replied but he sounded and looked a bit despondent at the idea. “Hold on,” he suddenly added, “it’s time for tomorrow’s weather report. I’ll get it on my phone and turn it to speaker so we can both hear it.”

It soon began:

The Regional Weather Report for Wednesday 20th October 2032. It will be a sunny, hot, dry day with temperatures ranging from 35 degrees to 28 degrees during the day, dropping to 26 degrees overnight. Moderate winds are expected. Precipitation will be extremely low with a 2% chance of rain.

We both sat quietly for a few minutes only to be interrupted by Brad, the Hotel Owner.

“Are you two nearly finished,” he began politely, “I am closing early as you can see there are very few customers here today. If it wasn’t for the small subsidies I get from the government, I would have closed the hotel down by now as most of the others in the region have been forced to.”

“Yes,” Bailey replied.

We both watched in silence as he proceeded over to the other few patrons there that evening.

“Well, I’d better get going then,” I said breaking the deathly silence, “Pa expects me home by 7pm.”

“Yep, me too. I’ve got heaps of stuff to do tonight besides checking job vacancies.”

We picked up our now empty glasses and the bowl with a few locust wings left in it and dutifully placed them on the bar on our way out to the car-park. It was still hot but we were used to that. Bailey headed over to his battered old car. As he only had a short distance to drive and hadn’t had much to drink he was fine to go. He was still able to use his car occasionally when he could get fuel but it was beyond his means to afford to convert it to electric. I made my way to the bicycle rack and released my electric tricycle from its lock, but with so few people around it probably didn’t need to be secured.

“One positive in all this,” I called over to Bailey, “at least the roads are much safer for cyclists like me without as much traffic as there used to be.”

“Trust you to think of something positive about The Dry,” he called back as he jumped in the drivers seat of his car. “Love you, Gran!”

“Love you too, Bails!”

It was hard for us oldies to get through these difficult dry dusty days but so much harder for the young.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Pizza + Movie Nights

@ Longueville UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville. TIME : 6.30pm. Pizza; 7.15pm Movie

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

3 September: One Life (2023)

The true story of Sir Nicholas Winton (1909-2015)The biographical drama of the young London broker who in the months leading up to WWII rescued over 600 children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia. Starring Anthony Hopkins, Johnny Flynn and Helena Bonham Carter.

Bookings essential on: 9428 4287 or 9427 4740. Cost $12 – the best value pizza/movie combo! BYO drinks.

Time 4U – Cost $5

Market Morning

Saturday 3 August 8am - 1pm

@ Longueville Uniting Church Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville Stalls include : Cakes, Jams & Pickles, Quality Corner, White Elephant, Books, Plants & Posies, Children’s Toys & Games, Raffles, Homemade Sausage Rolls, BBQ Kebabs and Devonshire Teas.

Everyone gets a bargain !

MUST GO !

BYO Shopping bag CASH ONLY

Enquiries : 9427 4740

ACCENT STRINGS: BACH TO BEATLES

CONCERT

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

Every Wednesday @ 10am till Noon @ Longueville Uniting Church Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville Friendly and fun mornings with home-made morning tea, discussion, documentaries and board games in Longueville UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville. All are welcome to come and join us. Transport can be arranged. Enquiries: Chris on 9428 4287

LURLINE QUARTET – STRINGS TO THE HEART

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

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

Tuesday 9th May 2023 at 7.30pm.

Music to enjoy includes the classic Divertimento by Mozart, Schubert’s Quartettsatz, Rachmaninov’s Vocalise also music from the Shows including Fiddler on the Roof, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to name but a few.

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

Beginner Bridge Lessons

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

Tuesday 13th August 2024 at 7.30pm.

VENUE: LCM St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, 19 Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove behind the Post Office.

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

Where – Henley Community Centre, Crown Street Henley Cost - $160 for the 6 lessons (includes light refreshments) and a Beginner Workbook.

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

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

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

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

Limited admission at the door on the night, online bookings preferred. Tickets at the door (cash only) $30 visitor, $10 students aged 18 and under. Enquiries welcome at 9428 4287. Future 2024 Concerts, both Tuesdays at 7.30pm: 8th October, 26th November.

Future 2023 Concerts, all Tuesdays at 7.30pm: 20th June, 8th August, 10th October, 28th November.

A MESSAGE FROM BRANKA IVKOVIC, CEO

Aged Care Employee Day, celebrated annually on 7 August, serves as a heartfelt reminder of the caring and professional work of aged care staff, who dedicate their time and skills to supporting and improving the lives of older Australians. Here at Sydney Community Services (SCS), we would like to take this day to recognise all of our staff as they are multiskilled and work not only with the older Australians but with people from all stages and walks of life.

Our employees are the backbone of our sector, embodying compassion, resilience, and dedication. They are the boots on the ground, working tirelessly each day to ensure the well-being and independence of our consumers. Their commitment goes beyond mere duty; it is a testament to their unwavering belief in the dignity and value of every individual they care for.

As I was writing this column the following e-mail came through from one of our wonderful service participants:

I just want to take a minute to share my appreciation and to say how much your organisation has helped me, in quite a few ways, to manage and not stress.

I live alone, and although I'm happily independent, I'm in a wheelchair and not so young anymore.

For several years I've had assistance from Jim (SCS Home Modifications), and it really makes a difference to know there is someone who can help when I need it. I just want to share my appreciation.

We are constantly inspired and humbled by stories of our staff going above and beyond. Whether it's a nurse who makes sure that our consumers receive the best wound care, a support worker who brings joy with a favourite

song, or a volunteer who listens with patience and empathy, these acts of kindness and dedication are the foundation of our organisation.

Every member of our support team plays a vital role. They provide essential services such as medical care, daily living assistance, emotional support, and companionship. We know that our staff navigate the complexities of their roles with professionalism and grace. They manage health conditions, offer emotional support, and create a safe and nurturing environment for our clients. Their ability to connect on a personal level makes a profound difference in the lives of those they care for.

On 7 August, we encourage everyone to take a moment to recognise and celebrate the aged and community care employees in our community. Simple gestures, such as a thank-you note, a warm smile, or a heartfelt conversation, can go a long way in showing appreciation. For those who can, participating in community events or volunteering time to support community programs is a wonderful way to give back.

As we look to the future, to enable us to continue to meet the evolving needs of our participants, we are seeking to welcome more dedicated inter-disciplinary staff members as well as people who wish to explore new career paths and receive high quality training and support.

To all our community care employees: thank you. Your dedication, compassion, and professionalism are the pillars that uphold dignity and quality of life for all our participants.

Happy Aged (Community) Care Employee Day!

Volunteer today and help make a difference

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

WE ARE LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS FOR THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS:

 Gardeners

We are hoping to find enthusiastic people to assist our gardening team.

This runs on Tuesday to Thursday, 8.30am – 12noon. There is flexibility and you can decide to volunteer weekly, fortnightly or monthly. Great team environment.

 Disability Groups

We are looking for volunteers for our disability groups that require support on various outings. These groups include the Walking Group and the New Explorers Group, held on a Monday and Tuesday from 10.00am – 2.00pm.

Contact us for further information and if you are interested in providing your assistance.

 Linen Service

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

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

P: 9427 6425

E: yhughes@sydneycs.org www.sydneycs.org

Working with you to achieve health, wellbeing and independence

Sydney Community Services supports you wherever you are on life’s journey.

OUR SERVICES

• Domestic Assistance

• Home Nursing

- Continence Advisory

• Home Delivered Meals

• Podiatry

• Flexible Respite

• Gardening

• Home Maintenance and Modifications

• Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Social Groups

• Accompanied Activities

- Shopping Service

• Organised Day Trips across Sydney

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

• Creative Drama and Arts for people with disabilities

• Services for people with disabilities

- Registered NDIS provider

• Playgroups at Meeting House

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

WHAT’S ON AUGUST 2024

Book Club

1.30pm - 2.30pm

Monday 19 August

Cost: $5 including book/afternoon tea.

Movement Matters

Monday, 10.30am - 11.30am

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

Wednesdays, 11.15am - 12.15pm.

Fridays, 9.30am - 10.30am and 10.45am - 11.45am

Contact us for further details and registration.

Seniors Hub

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

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

Contact us for a monthly program and the cost involved.

E: support@sydneycs.org

Seniors Shopping Bus

Tuesdays and Thursdays

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

P: 9003 1399

E: support@sydneycs.org

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

Mah Jong

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

 Tuesdays, 9.30am - 11.30am BEGINNERS WELCOME

 Wednesdays, 1.00 - 3.45pm

Cost: $5 including afternoon tea.

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

Seniors Social Support

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

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

Contact us for a monthly program.

E: tliu@sydneycs.org

CHESS CLUB

EVERY MONDAY

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

COST: $5pp, includes afternoon tea.

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

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

Scrabble

Thursdays, 10am - 12noon

Cost: $5 incl. morning tea.

Social Bridge

Thursdays, 12.30pm - 3.30pm

Cost: $5 incl. afternoon tea. New players please contact us prior to registration.

The Velveteens

2nd Monday each month 10am – 4pm.

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

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

E: support@sydneycs.org

Movie and Morning Tea

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels Monday 26 August

Time: 10.15am - 12pm

Cost: $35

P: 9003 1399

E: support@sydneycs.org

Social Tennis Group

Join us every Thursday at Lane Cove Tennis Club, Central Park, Kenneth St, Longueville.

Cost $5. Every Thursday 9-11am All players must register prior to playing – please call Julie 9427 6425. We look forward to seeing you on the court!

Table Tennis

Fridays, 12.00 - 4.00pm

Cost: $5

BOOMers Mens Group

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

Contact us for the full program.

When: Fridays eparts: 10.00am from Lane Cove Hub, Pottery Lane

Returns: 2.00pm

Contact us for the monthly program and the cost involved.

E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Social Bus Outings

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

Women's Wellness Class - Tuesdays

These trips are weekly and either half or full-day outings. Contact us for the monthly program and the cost involved. Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm Cost: $25 (Bus only)

E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Seniors Hub every Friday

Centre Based Service for over 65 year olds.

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

P: 9427 6425

E: support@sydneycs.org

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

E: support@sydneycs.org

Yoga

Join Sinead Costello, an experienced yoga/ wellbeing specialist, in our new yoga class.

• Wednesday 9.30am to 10.30am.

• 10-week term at $12 per session, or $15 per casual visit.

• Sydney Community Services, Park View Room, 1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove

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

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

Activities: drama ensemble, creative movement, full and half-day excursions, Sailablity, art groups and virtual meetups. based on the NDIS pricing schedule. gstarkey@sydneycs.org or support@sydneycs.org

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

Story Playgroups

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

TERM COSTS: - $10 per casual visit - $60 per term/one session per week

Arts, Craft, Music and Story Playgroups 0 - 5 years 9.30am to 11.30am

9003 1399 E: support@sydneycs.org

Large double room. Outside area Plus kitchen. Cost: $55 ph incl GST

For pricing and info contact: P: 9003 1399 E: support@sydneycs.org

ANTHONY ROBERTS MP

P: 9817 4757

E: lanecove@parliament.nsw.gov.au

The Opening of Figtree Park Hunters Hill

In mid-June, I was invited by the Mayor of Hunters Hill, Councillor Zac Miles, to re-open the upgraded Figtree Park in Hunters Hill.

Members of the community enjoyed a picnic in the park with live music and children were treated to facepainting and an opportunity to use the new playground equipment. The available open space has been increased as has the number of trees and garden beds. A new toilet block will be completed by the end of the year.

Hunters Hill Council is to be congratulated for providing the local community with a facility that Councillor Zac Miles said will provide extraordinary benefits from quality open space and contribute to the community’s health and wellbeing. He said that it will add vibrancy to the village precinct.

The funding for the upgrade was provided by the previous NSW Liberal Government as a response to the requirement for attractive open green spaces and recreation facilities to assist in the health and wellbeing of the community. Community interaction and engagement are increased as a result. Even still sporting groups and outdoor activities are building their way back up from where they were before the lockdowns. It’s a joy to have this park revitalised for the families and children in Hunters Hill.

Our electorate of Lane Cove is blessed with fine parks and gardens, many along magnificent waterways. It is important that they are maintained and the community encouraged to make use of them in terms of both passive and recreation and sporting pursuits.

Sound local planning has provided splendid parks, sporting ovals, bushland and delightful foreshores for residents and visitors to the Lane Cove electorate. The efforts of volunteer coaches, managers, umpires, referees and parents has enabled large numbers of young people to play a wide range of sports. We also have an active scouting and guide movement led by volunteers who are imparting important life skills.

This is the result of a culture of volunteerism and local responsibility. Governments at all levels need to support the efforts of local people working for their communities. I am looking forward to my continued work with local clubs who are providing an important service to the community.

Guy Warren AM

It is with great sadness that we saw the passing of distinguished artist Guy Warren AM of Greenwich. Guy died in June, aged 103. In 1961 Guy and his family moved to Greenwich where he was actively involved in local artistic activities such as the Lane Cove Art Panel, the Lane Cove Council Art Collection, the Lane Cove Art Award and the Lloyd Rees Youth art Award.

P: 9952 8222

E: mayor@ryde.nsw.gov.au

High tech agreement

There was exciting news for the City of Ryde last month with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Taiwan’s Hsinchu Science Park Bureau at digital ceremonies held simultaneously at Ryde Council Chambers and Taipei.

Cooperation between Council and the Hsinchu Science Park – which houses the world’s top two semiconductor companies among its more than 400 high-tech businesses – will focus on the advancement of the semiconductor industry, the biomedical industry, and the incubation of start-up companies.

The historic agreement means that our Macquarie Park Innovation District can play a key role for Australia in an essential global industry that produces the computer chips needed to run everything from household appliances, smartphones and cars to submarines, and medical equipment.

Investing in the advanced technology sector also has the potential to create new job opportunities, especially those with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics backgrounds.

There’s a possibility that some of those career opportunities may be sparked by National Science Week, taking place between 10-18 August, with a number of fascinating activities being presented by City of Ryde Libraries for the younger members of our community.

There are Rocket Craft Making workshops, First Nations Astronomy and Stargazing, an immersive virtual reality reliving of the Apollo 11 mission to the Moon, a Skyworks Planetarium, and a Brain Camp Workshop to thrill and intrigue young scientists.

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

Aussie, Aussie, Aussie

August is also a massive sporting month, with Australia’s elite athletes competing with the world’s best at the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.

It’s the perfect opportunity to gather with the local community to cheer on our team – which includes North Ryde swimmer Olivia Wunsch – at Top Ryde City shopping centre, which is hosting live sites on 3 and 10 August for the Olympics, and 31 August and 7 September for the Paralympics.

So, come and dine at one of the Piazza Restaurants, take part in the free kids’ activities, including face painting and table tennis, and put on your best green and gold outfit.

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

The Village Observer assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content provided on these pages. Views and opinions expressed are the author's own.

CLR TRENTON BROWN CITY OF RYDE MAYOR

P: 9439 4199

E: willoughby@parliament.nsw.gov.au

The Minns Labor Government has announced significant cuts to Service NSW centres across the state. This will directly impact the service delivered by our local Chatswood Service Centre, which is already handling a high quantity of customers on a regular basis, as well as the nearby North Sydney Centre.

The government has lost control of the budget and continues to show that they have the wrong priorities. Cuts to these every-day services makes that clear.

This specific cut to Service NSW includes the decision to sack over 200 frontline staff and over $100 million in annual funding, meaning wait times will be longer and pressure on staff will be higher.

For the Willoughby community, this cut to funding will make it difficult for the Chatswood Service Centre staff to serve customers and locals as diligently as it has for the last 10 years. Their ability to continue to handle high volumes of customers will be threatened.

Whether it be renewing your driver’s license or getting a copy of your birth certificate Service NSW has made life easier for everyone.

Labor’s cuts threaten the accessibility and efficiency of essential services for all demographics, including the elderly.

We have heard already that more non-English language staff are required locally, and these cuts ignore such community feedback.

This comes whilst slicing other essential services during the cost-of-living crisis where locals are feeling the pressure already. It is disappointing to hear that while the cost of groceries is continuing to rise, staff and funding for everyday government services will also be sacrificed.

The continued ineffective implementation of the Labor government budget is proving detrimental for the everyday local resident. This is on top of cuts to costof-living support, school budgets, and funding for local grassroot organisations.

The previous government had created a world leading standard of an effective one-stop-shop for essential services.

Labor’s cuts also affect and compromise future programs and technology that would have made our lives easier.

I will continue to advocate against these cuts and for these important services to continue to receive the funding and commitment they deserve.

P: 9879 9400

E: mayor@huntershill.nsw.gov.au

Spring Garden Competition

With Spring just around the corner, it’s time for local green thumbs to start preparing their gardens for the 2024 Hunters Hill Spring Garden Competition.

The competition, jointly presented by Council and the Rotary Club of Hunters Hill, is a great opportunity to contribute to our garden suburb and showcase amazing local gardens, native habitats, balconies and courtyards, streetscapes and public spaces – all while being in the running for a series of prizes and helping to raise funds for the restoration of the historic Hillman Orchard.

With six categories to enter, even the beautifully maintained public space in your local school could be in the running to win a prize. Make sure to encourage all your friends and family to enter.

Entries will close on Saturday 14 September, giving participants plenty of time to perfect their plots.

Entry are free and open to all residents living in the Hunters Hill local government area.

For more information about the competition and the Open Garden Day taking place on Sunday 22 September, visit www.huntershill.nsw.gov.au/garden.

Moocooboola Festival: Date change

Due to the recent adverse weather conditions, the decision has unfortunately had to be made to postpone our Moocooboola Festival to Sunday 13 October.

Moocooboola Festival has been a cherished village fair in Hunters Hill for decades, bringing the community together for a day filled with fun, delicious food and exciting entertainment.

Our local festival has consistently drawn thousands of attendees with its large offering of attractions including live performances, rides, games, stalls, activities, displays and workshops.

This year, the severe wet weather has resulted in waterlogged fields affecting the functionality of the Boronia Park Ovals for the Festival.

Given the risk of creating a slippery and unsafe environment for festival attendees and damaging the field, the decision to reschedule the event to October was made to ensure that we can still deliver the Moocooboola Festival that we know and love, with its full range of entertainment and activities and with a great representation from community groups and local stallholders and performers.

We are looking forward to bringing our community together for this year's Festival in October and encourage everyone to mark the new date in their family calendars. For more information about Moocooboola Festival 2024, visit www.huntershill.nsw.gov.au/moocooboola.

The Village Observer assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content provided on these pages. Views and opinions expressed are the author's own.

ZAC MILES HUNTERS HILL MAYOR

TIM JAMES MP

Improve your health Expand your mind Make new friends

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AUCTION

View As Advertised or By Appointment

• Split level family sanctuary in blue ribbon golf course pocket

• Peaceful aspect on the cor ner of tightly held cul-de-sac street

• Flexibility of multipurpose living areas and up to six bedrooms

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

AUCTION SATURDAY 17 AUGUST AT 1.30PM

View Saturday and Wednesday 1.00pm – 1.30pm

• Architectural full-brick masterpiece in exclusive harbourside setting

• Sleek design with high-end finishes and all moder n comforts

• Outdoor dining oasis with built in kitchen and BBQ overlooking custom pool

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

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

AUCTION SAT 17 AUGUST AT 11.15AM

View Saturday and Wednesday 11.00am - 11.30am

• Expansive open plan living and dining areas with hardwood floors

• Effortless outdoor flow to covered alfresco entertaining setting

• Lane Cove Public catchment and moments to shops and transport

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

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

FOR SALE

View As Advertised or By Appointment

• Luxury hideaway with huge balcony in a prime lifestyle address

• Scenic views to trees and blue sky from lounge, bed and alfresco

• Just five minutes to Lane Cove village and Canopy precinct

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

Lachlan Yelds 0466 489 240 E: lachlan.yelds@belleproperty.com

Monica Carollo 0491 001 539 E: monica.carollo@belleproperty.com

Belle Property Hunters Hill 3/52-56 Gladesville Road, Hunters Hill 9817 7729

Belle Property Lane Cove 162 Longueville Road, Lane Cove 9087 3333

Belle Property Willoughby 551 Willoughby Road, Willoughby 9958 5211

Belle Property Lindfield 3 Tryon Place, Lindfield 9416 6999

LANE COVE'S CARISBROOK

Museum of Life in the 1880s

Carisbrook is a survivor of a time when land around the Lane Cove River was a world away from Sydney Town. Built in the 1880s from locally quarried sandstone, the house sits handsomely overlooking Burns Bay on the east and the Lane Cove River to the west.

6 Yarrandi Place, Riverview 5 bed 3 bath 4 car

23 Hamilton Street Riverview 5 bed 2 bath 2 car

46/62 Gordon Cres, Lane Cove North 1 bed 1 bath 1 car

1 Delta Road, Lane Cove 6 bed 3.5 bath 2 car