The Village Observer

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

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

THE VILLAGE OBSERVER:

1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove NSW 2066.

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EDITOR'S LETTER

It’s a packed edition this month. Thank you to everyone in the local community for getting in touch with their stories and ideas.

Thank you to Miki Oka for the photograph that captured one of new murals by Lane Cove swimming pool. The stunning mural and Miki's photo has made for a fantastic front cover.

Lane Cove and surrounds are blessed, however, the rental crisis in hitting here too. Flying under the radar for some time has been Pottery Gardens – affordable residences for those who are in receipt of pensions. It provides a genuine lifeline. More information inside.

Big news this month is that Lane Cove Community Bands is celebrating its 60 year anniversary – an incredible milestone. The organisation tells its story inside and how every year it has gone from strength to strength.

We also have some news from the Hunters Hill and Ryde Men’s Shed and Lane Cove’s Rotary Fair.

The Village Observer is published monthly (except January) by Sydney Community Services (trading as Lane Cove Community Aid Foundation)

• Distribution is at the beginning of the month.

• Readers are invited to submit articles for consideration.

• Articles and items for community events should be emailed to the Editor with any accompanying images by the 15th of each month, for inclusion in the next month’s issue. • Advertising enquiries should be directed to advertising@thevillageobserver.com.au

• If mailing material and you would like it returned, please include a stamped, self-addressed envelope. All care, but no responsibility will be taken for this material. © Copyright 2021. Original advertisements and editorial in this publication are copyright and remain the exclusive property of The Village Observer. No part of this publication may be reproduced and/or transmitted in any form or by any means without the written consent of the Publisher.

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

Plus, all the regulars – our monthly column from local Liz Foster (she has a book coming soon, but more on that later), a feature on important health topics from Dr Carl Wong, winter warmer recipes from Chef Bern, and our inspirational creativity ‘boost’ from Ros Gervay.

We’re really keen to get some new voices into TVO, so please write in with any news you have, or flag with us any local organisations and groups you are part of. We’re sure there are hundreds more stories to tell.

NICOLA RICHES EDITOR editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

Thank you... as a local, small publication, run by a not-forprofit 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:

Organise and Store is a local Australian family-owned specialist retailer of high quality, super functional and great space saving home storage/organising products.

The company was established in 2020 with a focus on sourcing and selecting top quality products that are efficient, easy to use and help reduce waste and energy.

At Organise and Store, we care about the well-being of the Community and of the Environment. In addition to selecting quality products that last and are reusable, we donate funds in support of and to help improve the mental health and

City

of Ryde launches annual garden competition

With a growing number of readers in the City of Ryde area, we thought we would flag that entries for the Council’s Spring Garden Competition are open.

Entries are open until 31 August in 10 categories that encourage participation from all members of community, showcasing gardens both big and small designed for personal relaxation, for the community, for attracting native animals, or even for eating.

The categories include front gardens, back gardens, courtyard or balcony gardens, edible gardens, native and habitat friendly gardens, local school gardens, community gardens, commercial gardens, bushcare sites and a children’s seed growing competition.

Note that it is encouraged that entries in the Children’s Seed Growing category should ideally be made before Thursday 31 August to allow for maximum seed growing time.

Judging by a panel of garden experts and horticultural professionals will take place during September/October 2023 before the winners are announced on Wednesday 25 October 2023 at Eden Gardens.

Expect Respect term three dates

Expect Respect is a free six-week women’s support/ psychoeducation for women who are living with or have experienced domestic abuse, in its myriad forms.

The group will be running on Thursdays from July 27 to August 31 (10am to 12pm).

The program has been running for several years and has some free childcare spots. In those workshops, you will receive information on what abuse looks like and how it is not limited to physical abuse. It will show ways women can access support safely and factors that may keep someone in a relationship with an abusive partner. The group enables women to gain practical and emotional support, in and out of the group setting and helps to build self-awareness of a woman’s needs and her children’s needs (if applicable).

Any questions or referrals, email shellie.b@wacf.org.au or call 9971 4499.

Red Cross calls for volunteers

As disasters become more frequent across Australia, the demand for Australian Red Cross emergency services is growing.

In New South Wales,1,200 Australian Red Cross emergency service volunteers play a critical role in supporting communities when disaster strikes, but more are needed.

Volunteers are vital in delivering Australian Red Cross emergency response programs. They not only support people in their own communities but are often deployed across the country to be where they’re needed most.

Australian Red Cross State Manager Emergency Services for NSW, Diana Bernardi is encouraging anyone with a passion to help and meet like-minded people to consider joining the volunteer community.

“Volunteering means joining a group of nearly 1,200 volunteers across NSW who are ready to assist locally and across the state and rest of the country in times of emergency,” Ms Bernardi said.

For more information contact nswemerencyservices@ redcross.org.au or see volunteer roles at www.redcross. org.au/volunteer

Michael Fitzgerald & Peter Louridas

21 new citizens for Hunters Hill

Hunter’s Hill Council welcomed 21 new Australian citizens during a citizenship ceremony on 20 June at Hunters Hill Town Hall.

The conferees from Columbia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Venezuela, Poland, Italy, United States of America, France, Philippines, Egypt and Russian Federation, were joined by family and friends as they took the pledge of loyalty to Australia and received their citizenship certificates before Mayor of Hunters Hill Zac Miles.

“It was fantastic to have so many conferees, which is a real milestone for Hunters Hill, particularly on Refugee Week when we are celebrating the theme ‘finding freedom’,

Plans for redevelopment of the Comfort Inn rejected

The Land and Environment Court has rejected a developer’s plan to construct a five-storey block of units (with two underground car parking levels) at 1 Gatacre Avenue and 5 Allison Avenue, Lane Cove – the site of the Comfort Inn.

Residents objected to the development on the basis that the steep nature of the site should be taken into account, and any development should be compatible with the local character of the streets. They were particularly concerned about the building height breach and setbacks.

Locals have been objecting to this development since development application plans were lodged in June 2021.

something that we all enjoy here in the lucky country,” Councillor Miles said.

The Citizenship Ceremony was a special and moving experience for all involved.

“It was a long journey but worth every minute”, Michael, a conferee from Poland, said.

For Michael, it has been a nine-year journey to officially call Australia home. “I’m extremely happy,” he continued. Conferee Jennifer Masangkay reaffirmed this sentiment.

“I have come a long way … I am blessed and grateful to finally be able to call this beautiful country my home,” she said.

Calling potential stallholders for Rotary Fair

Bookings are open for stallholders at the Lane Cove Rotary Fair. The event takes place on Sunday 8 October from 9:00am to 4:00pm across the Canopy, Lane Cove Plaza and Longueville Road.

Burns Bay Road will remain open this year to ensure access to the Canopy Car Park for shoppers and Fair visitors. Street stalls, rides and live entertainment will be on Longueville Road and the Plaza (closed to traffic).

Sustainability Lane stalls will be at The Canopy again this year. For stallholder booking enquiries go to the Lane Cove Rotary website: www.lanecoverotaryfair.org

Black Market Grey Areas

by Liz Foster

I recently caught a kid going through our garbage, searching for glassware to Return and Earn. I applaud his enterprise – we’ve thrown it out, after all - though times have changed. My first job was a paper round, a concept my children barely understand, and their children will need explaining at length. Newspapers were printed Nanna?

But I don’t see the harm in others profiting from stuff that’s worthless to the rest of us. We must all adapt or die. Or in some cases, adapt and die.

News recently came to light of a black-market racket in the States trading human body parts. In these rapidly changing times of economic uncertainty, this seems like a win-win solution. Setting aside the lack of consent (the people are dead after all) and questionable ethics, the former manager at Harvard’s Medical School morgue was indicted for stealing donated cadavers. Cedric Lodge, who sounds more Masonic Hall than body snatcher, took dissected body parts home – heads, brains, bones etc – and mailed them on to a lively network of buyers and sellers. One customer, owner of Kat’s Creepy Creations had an Instagram page promoting amongst others creepy dolls, oddities, and bone art. You’d be getting a pretty realistic experience for sure.

We must be thankful for the very real trade in dead bodies from Victorian times. Feeding this highly lucrative industry was a six-fold increase in doctors training in the second half of the nineteenth century. Body dealers mushroomed across London and into the provinces. Between 1832 and 1930, the Anatomy Act supported the trade of 125,000 bodies, and multiple thousands more transactions of body parts. Porters at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital would leave a large, wheeled wicker basket outside which was returned chock-a-block with corpses each night. This was pre penicillin after all and tuberculosis was rife, not to mention women who died in labour or had stillborn babies. All great fodder for research into miscarriages and childbirth abnormality.

More dubious was the work of the body snatchers, the underground (pun intended) trade which thrived as demand for cadavers outstripped supply. Interfering with a grave in Victorian times was a common law misdemeanour while dissecting bodies and theft of grave items was a felony punishable by transportation. Show of hands please for those of us with grave robbing forebearers.

The most murky tale of those times was that of William Burke, an Irishman who murdered sixteen people by sitting on their chest and pinching their nose, thus ensuring a perfect sellable corpse. Burke got his come-uppance when he was dissected himself after being hanged.

Relatives of Ecuadorean woman Bella Montoya should count themselves lucky there was no such market when Bella recently passed away, but if there had been her body would have been fresh indeed. So fresh, in fact, mourners at her wake were startled by her knocking on the coffin lid. She was hastily rescued and returned to hospital where she eventually died, again.

But back to Victorian England, where Cambridge University commissioned a ‘Dead Train’ from the port city of Hull blighted by poor sanitation epidemics. The twice weekly high-speed service was necessary in those days before refrigeration. You probably can’t get from Hull to Cambridge any quicker today. This grisly trade was at least legal, sort of, and we can all be grateful for it. In February 1896, the British Medical Journal published an early skiagraph of a child taken with machinery being trialled in Cambridge. (Skiagraphs are today’s X-rays, but don’t you love the name.) And it was an X-ray diffraction that led two Cambridge based scientists to recognise the double helix shape of DNA in 1951, which even the most non-sciency amongst us would recognise.

Alas, our friend Cedric Lodge was born in the wrong century and country for his side hustle to be legal. And I’m fairly sure that people sifting through our bins under cover of darkness are searching for Return and Earn glassware rather than body parts.

Liz Foster is a local writer. You can find her at lizfoster.com.au and www.facebook.com/lizfosterauthor, or email her at liz@lizfoster.com.au

Illustration by Grace Kopsiaftis

ASPECTS

Beautiful new street art in Lane Cove

Where: Pottery Green Oval Taken: 13 July 2023

Thank you to photographer Miki Oka

The one where the Gladesville CrossFitter flies the flag for Australia, and the writer looks on in awe…

WORDS: CAROLYN SWINDELL

Ok, look, Brandyn Gaskill isn’t the first athlete to make me feel past it. Not even close.

Nope, I wasn’t even seven years old when I watched Romanian pocket-rocket Nadia Comaneci flip and twirl her way to Gold at the 1976 Montreal Olympics and cried myself to sleep at the news that she had started gymnastics at age five. I was six. Nearly seven. I had missed my window for Olympic Gold.

Year 2 and past it.

Imagine then how terrific it feels in my fifties (early fifties) to be seven years into my CrossFit journey and have someone who started just three years ago qualify for the CrossFit Games.

Yep, 17-year-old Brandyn Gaskill is not only doing his HSC at Marsden High School this year, he’s the only teenager in all of Australia, Oceania and Asia to qualify for the CrossFit Games in Wisconsin, USA this month.

As one of only 10 qualifiers worldwide, Brandyn came seventh out of 1700 competitors to gain his invitation to the Games in the Boys’ 16-17 year age group where he’ll compete in up to ten different events over three days in front of crowds of up to 10,000 people.

Brandyn started CrossFit just three years ago, training with his sister who was doing CrossFit workouts at home during Sydney’s first lockdown. Now he trains in Gladesville twice a day, six days a week, before and after school. He credits CrossFit – and his sister Kaitlyn – with helping him through some tough times as he built physical and mental fitness.

(I don’t know about you but I’m still carrying a couple of extra Covid kilos and didn’t manage to sort out a single photo album during lockdown, so this type of story doesn’t make me feel good about myself and I apologise to readers of TVO who also feel like we need to hear less about gogetters like Brandyn.)

You may have heard of CrossFit. Probably from a CrossFitter because unlike Fight Club, the first rule of CrossFit is that you ALWAYS talk about CrossFit. Honestly, even this profile of a talented and hard-working young man from TVO territory is simply an excuse for me to talk about CrossFit.

Trust me though, I am qualified to talk about CrossFit. I may not be Australia’s best-known or most-beloved novelist, but I can claim the honour of being Australia’s fittest novelist*.

CrossFit was founded in 2000 and is one of the fastest growing sports in the world.

Now there are approximately four million people practicing CrossFit in over 162 countries, with an even split between male and female participants.

Brandyn follows a strong tradition of Australian athletes performing well at the Games, in fact, the most successful athlete in the history of CrossFit is an Australian. Tia-Clair Toomey has won the mantle of Fittest Woman on Earth a staggering six consecutive times before taking this year off to become a mother.

CrossFit is a strength and conditioning workout that is made up of functional movements performed at high intensity. By “functional” they mean movements that are actions that you perform in your day-to-day life, like squatting, pulling, or pushing.

It also includes Olympic weight-lifting movements like the Clean and Jerk and the Snatch and gymnastics movements like skipping and handstand walking. You remember the last time you had to handstand walk in your day-to-day life, right? Can’t get suede shoes wet in the rain.

Anyway, Brandyn didn’t qualify for the Games simply by being a good guy (which he is, but we still don’t give out awards for that). Firstly, he had to join 322,000 people from

150 countries competing in the CrossFit Open in February, the first stage for qualifying for the CrossFit Games. Brandyn needed to get into the top 10 percent to qualify for the next stage, the quarter finals. From there he qualified for the semi finals where he came seventh in the world in his age group and got his invitation to Madison.

(Some of us came 56015th out of women worldwide which wasn’t quite in the top 10 percent but who’s counting?).

Despite Tia-Clair Toomey’s hiatus, Brandyn won’t be the only one flying the Australian flag at the Games this year, three men and three women qualified from the Oceania semi-final in the open age group, plus a number of Masters age competitors. All competitors are self-funded though and Brandyn and his local community have been raising the

funds to get him there.

Brandyn will travel with his parents, Michelle and Darren, and his CrossFit coach (who also happens to coach Australia’s fittest novelist*), Liam Ford. And if you’re worried that this kid is way too sensible and focused for his own good, take comfort from hearing that his goal when he finishes the Games – hopefully standing on the podium but definitely with some great experiences under his weightlifting belt – is to hit as many American fast-food franchises as he can before heading back to tackle his HSC.

GOOD LUCK BRANDYN!

*The CrossFit Open Leaderboard lets you search by occupation and country. So I did. And I am. (Maybe)

Lane Cove Community Bands: 60 years old and going strong

This year, Lane Cove Community Bands Inc. will celebrate its 60th anniversary with a concert and dinner in August featuring all the organisation’s six ensembles. As well as a time for celebration, it is a time of reflection for the musical organisation that started life as a small youth brass band. Phil Arnold tells the story from 1963 to the current day.

The beginning (1963 – 1974)

The original band was the initiative of members of Lane Cove Rotary who approached the Lane Cove Council in September 1962 for its support of the establishment of a youth band. They must have been convincing as council gave the green light to the proposal and, on April 29 1963, with funds raised through council’s contribution and public subscription, the Lane Cove Municipal Band began rehearsals. By November 1964, under the directorship first of Arthur Stender and then Reg Bishop, the band boasted a membership of 32, and performed regularly. However, by the early 1970s many original members had moved on and numbers were dwindling.

From Brass Band to Concert Band (1975 – 1989)

It was then, in 1975, that a young band member and trainee teacher, Bruce Hicks, took over the band’s directorship. Bruce, who was also directing the Ryde Youth Band, proposed an amalgamation of the two bands. As Ryde Youth Band was a military, or concert band, incorporating woodwind as well as brass instruments, Lane Cove Band had to make the transition to the same instrumentation. This was a major change for the Lane Cove Band and one that took some time to absorb. But, by 1977, the transition was complete, and numbers increased significantly. The band had undergone the first of two significant changes

and was renamed, appropriately, Lane Cove Concert Band. From 1980, the band continued under the directorship of Brian McGuiness, a high school music teacher and band director. As well as considerable musical expertise and experience, Brian brought with him band members from both The Forest High School, where he taught, and his home suburb, Sutherland. During the following eight years, the standard of the band improved significantly, either winning or achieving a podium finish in its division at various band championships.

The Middle Years (1989 – 2004)

Following Brian’s departure, there were two short-term appointments: band member Liz Shane, and later, Ian Cox, however, there was no long-term band director until, in October 1993, Edie Rens, who had completed her musical education in the United States was appointed. Edie instituted the popular Music by the River concerts at Tambourine Bay Reserve, and under her directorship, the band completed the transition from youth band to adult band, and its membership increased significantly. Edie continued to direct the band until the end of 1998 when she returned to the United States and was replaced by ex RAAF conductor, Mike Butcher. Mike took the reins expertly from 2000 when the band was placed first in the State B grade concert band championships to 2002, when

USA Tour Band 2019

health issues forced his resignation. Chris Hunt took over the directorship for the next two years.

A period of expansion (2005 – 2013)

While the band had been continuing on its merry way, a musical revolution was taking place in the surrounding primary and high schools that was to have a major impact on community bands everywhere. Young, enthusiastic music teachers were building highly successful school band programs that were providing opportunities for their students that had formerly been the mainstay of community bands, and community band membership numbers were declining accordingly. That was when the band’s next appointment proved to be a fortuitous one for the Lane Cove Concert Band.

In 2005, the band appointed Phil Arnold, an experienced music teacher and school and community band director who had recently returned to NSW from Perth, WA. Phil’s appointment was to lead to a revival of the band’s fortunes in an unexpected way. Whilst membership stabilized under his direction, and the band won both the 2007 State B Grade Concert Band Championship and the 2008 and 2010 East Coast Band Championships, recruitment of new members was an issue.

It was then, in 2008, that Phil proposed the establishment of an adult beginner program. He had established a similar program in Leeming, Perth, and had seen it grow into a fine community band. The committee accepted the proposal and, with long-term band committee member Jackie Brighton overseeing recruitment and the subsequent

administration, more than 50 enthusiastic adult beginners joined the program.

Known affectionately as ABB(A) (Adult Beginner Band), the band rapidly outgrew its beginner status, and the committee decided to distinguish between the two bands by providing them with names that reflected Lane Cove’s indigenous heritage.

The existing Lane Cove Concert Band was re-named Cameraygal Concert Band, after the original inhabitants of the area, and the beginner band was named Turrumburra Concert Band, from the indigenous name for the Lane Cove River.

When the organisation repeated the process two years later, Phil Arnold resigned from the directorship of the Cameraygal Concert Band to concentrate on the burgeoning adult beginner program. This time, 60 new members were recruited. Within no time, the new group was a performing band in its own right and was named Karingal Concert Band, from the indigenous word meaning, appropriately, happy camp. Phil’s replacement as Cameraygal Concert Band director was experienced band director, Lindsay Frost, who played a significant role in the lead up to the 50th anniversary celebrations.

At about the same time, Cameraygal Concert Band member, David Braybrook, established a big band named Stringybark Jazz after the local creek and Phil Arnold offered a similar opportunity to members of the Turrumburra Band. Known, initially, as the Rusty Gate Big Band, the group grew in Continued over page

LCCB at Music By The River

Cameraygal at State Band Champs with Phil Arnold conducting

Burns Bay Big Band at Waterview

Turrumburra members on the occasion of 10th Anniversary of adult beginner band

confidence and stature until it became an official ensemble within the organisation and was re-named Burns Bay Big Band.

The establishment of a woodwind ensemble under the direction of David Braybrook added a sixth ensemble, Tambourine Bay Winds, completing the organisation’s transition from one 40-member band, to three concert bands, two big bands and a woodwind ensemble, and a total membership of over 150.

In 2013, the band reached its 50th anniversary, celebrating in fine style with a gala concert at the Shore School Auditorium that featured former band members David Elton on trumpet, Mark Brown on euphonium and Dave Egan on percussion, and an anniversary dinner with members and their guests dancing the night away.

The next 10 years (2014 – 2023)

The next 10 years proved to be no less tumultuous than the previous 10. All ensembles continued to perform regularly in Lane Cove Plaza. Turrumburra and Karingal Concert Bands held the first of their annual Warm Up To Winter Concerts, all the concert bands combined to begin the Almost Spring Concert series and the smaller ensembles combined for a Cabaret-style night entitled Tempos in Time.

In 2018, the organisation celebrated the 10th anniversary of its adult beginner program with a gala dinner at the newly renovated Alcott Club, two further adult beginner programs introduced aspiring musicians to band membership, and the band changed its rehearsal venue from its long-term home in Longueville Rd to a newly constructed community centre underneath the Waterview Drive access road.

After almost 15 years shepherding the organisation through many of its most significant and challenging changes, Richard Palmer resigned the band presidency in 2016 and was replaced by current president, Michelle Casiglia, herself, a former adult beginner.

Changes of band directorship began almost immediately following the anniversary concert, with Lindsay Frost resigning and being replaced by former music director of the Air Force Band Sydney, David Worrall.

David presided over concerts featuring iconic jazz singers Jackie Cooper and Simone Waddell, and internationally recognised concert pianist, Simon Tedeschi, as well as a change of name for the band to Cameraygal Wind Symphony before he resigned and was replaced by longserving Chatswood High School music teacher and band director, Gavin Staines OAM.

Phil Arnold’s resignation from his three remaining directorships in 2018/19 sparked further changes of directorship: Rod Mason OAM, Deputy Music Director of Australian Army, took over Turrumburra Concert Band, and was followed by experienced school and community band director Megan Lipworth. Daniel Williams, international trumpeter and Head of Bands at Waverley College, then took over Karingal Concert Band and Australian Army Band musician, Jeff Camilleri, took over Burns Bay Big Band. When David Braybrook resigned as director of Stringybark Big Band, and was replaced by well-known local jazz identity and music teacher, Bob Pritchard, the changes of directorship were, for the time being, complete.

Gavin Staines’ appointment injected a flurry of performance activity for Cameraygal Wind Symphony, with regular concerts featuring such musical luminaries as David Elton,

and an international tour to the United States of America involving members from all Lane Cove bands. New works were also commissioned by Australian composers Brendan Collins and Ralph Hultgren.

And then came Covid!

Had it not been for the efforts of the band committee, led by President, Michelle Casiglia and Vice President, Richard Palmer, and the bands’ directors to use online channels to maintain contact with band members, the pandemic might have created a crisis of existential proportions for the Lane Cove Band, as it was for many others.

Instead, the organisation emerged from the crisis even stronger than before, with the resumption of annual concert series’, a country tour to Dungog for Cameraygal Wind Symphony, the inception of an annual Young Soloists Instrumental Competition, and a residential band camp held in the Blue Mountains.

Most recently, the organisation has changed its name to Lane Cove Community Bands Inc., more properly reflecting the nature of its ensembles.

The last 60 years have seen the suburb of Lane Cove experience an extraordinary period of growth – growth which has been reflected in the development of the municipal band that was the vision of those forwardthinking Rotarians in 1963. And throughout that 60 years, Lane Cove Community Bands Inc. has been there in its various incarnations, providing a musical outlet for hundreds of aspiring musicians, young and old, and entertainment for thousands of its citizens. Long may it continue to do so.

The LCCB 60th Anniversary Concert will be held at The Concourse, Chatswood, at 2:00pm on Sunday 20 August (note recent change of venue). All members, past and present, and their friends, relatives and other interested parties are welcome to attend. Information and tickets are available via the bands’ website: www.lccb.org.au.

So many places. So many choices. How will I choose?

After 2 years vegetating at home, bemoaning that travel was out of bounds and feeling jealous when the rest of the world opened earlier than Australia, I spent time creating photo books of past journeys. Each brought back vibrant memories of cultural experiences which had thrilled me, food that had enlivened oft spoilt taste buds, inspirational architecture, and just general feelgood places.

By Adrienne Witteman

In 2022, my other role as a tour/group leader enabled me to revisit some of those places and further travel later this year will enable the same. Gratefully, there are so many places that I will never tire of visiting and as luck would have it, several are best linked on a cruise. Cruising makes it so easy. While I know that France, and by association Paris, are the most popular tourist destinations in the world, I prefer Spain and Portugal any day. Somehow the lifestyle in Madrid, Barcelona and Lisbon seems much more sympatico with our Australian lifestyle – long sunny days, tasty tapas style morsels, beaches galore and trendy hotels with roof-top bars and restaurants, and sometimes pools.

Then there is Sagrada Familia. Some of you might think that this cathedral is seriously weird. Yet if you’ve been fortunate enough to have sat inside this gloriously imagined space, while the sun throws coloured sunbeams across the floors and a choir, and then a soloist, transports you to

unimaginableplaces, you will surely feel moved. This alone is worth a trip to Barcelona…And then there is Gaudi... Madrid meanwhile is just that little bit more serious. While Barcelona is precocious, Madrid stands resolute with fabulous galleries and palaces, many but a stone’s throw from each other. Lisbon, located on the Targus River speaks volumes about the seafaring exploits of its great explorers and not only is the seafood delicious and perfectly fresh (though you might prefer bacalao, anchovies and sardines) it’s fun following up with a Portuguese custard tart, or two… Perhaps it is the Spanish influence again but I don’t think I’ll ever tire of visiting Buenos Aires. Not only is it a gateway to Antarctica (via the oftmaligned city of Ushuaia) but there’s steak, gauchos, fine wine, sublime tango dancing and a magnificent Opera House. Don’t cry for me, Argentina. Indeed.

Leaving Europe, my next favourite cities would be Tokyo and Osaka, followed by Singapore and Hanoi. Tokyo never ceases to amaze – the skyscrapers, the bright lights, superbly efficient trains, pocket parks, the Imperial Palace and more. All of it so tidy, so polite, blending tradition with modernity so harmoniously. The food is great but if you want serious Japanese gourmet, go to Osaka. The city is not as smart as Tokyo, except during cherry season when even the ugliest landscape is rendered attractive. However, Osaka’s appeal is in its raw, authentic nature that makes exploring its alleyways, especially the kitchenware street quarter, endlessly fascinating. Hanoi is amazing. Young and invigorating, with communism subtle enough to almost make socialism attractive, it is alive. Bicycles and motorbikes, streetside stalls, young women in snow white ao dai, tai chi, pho soup and more. It’s dynamic and with something for everyone.

Singapore meanwhile used to bore me but now it excites. Not as much as Tokyo but with those beautiful Gardens by the Bay and boutique hotels that re-imagine living in a traditional Singaporean home, Singapore has morphed from bland to characterful, from dull to atmospheric. Of course, it is no longer cheap as chips but this is a purposeful government objective to make a quality experience shine. I’ve long run out of room but not places to share … if you’re at a loss as to where you should next travel perhaps my experiences can help you.

THE PEARL OF

Enviably positioned on the top floor with 180-degree views of stunning Sydney Harbour is what truly sets this incredible residence apart. With 13 metres of uninterrupted frontage, ‘The Pearl of Akoya’ commands the best position in the collection, quite literally on top of the world with sweeping views from every room.

Part of the exclusive Akoya development offering world class amenities and exclusive to those over 55, ‘The Pearl of Akoya’ is arguably the best of the best. Exquisite would be an understatement to describe this unique property.

The Sail S Re S idence

PRESENTED BY

This spectacular home takes in breathtaking views out to Cockatoo Island and the Lane Cove River. Aptly named, gaze out to the picturesque vista on your sundrenched balcony with a glass of champagne in hand as you watch yachts and boats sail by – a unique and spectacular position, which sets this incredible residence apart.

Part of the exclusive Akoya development offering world class amenities and exclusive to those over 55. ‘The Sails Residence’ presents a once in a lifetime opportunity – there will never be a place to call home like this again.

3 BED | 2 BATH | 1 CAR $2,995,000

Discover more about ‘The Sails Residence’ akoyaresidences.com.au/sails

Pottery Gardens: helping to tackle the housing crisis in Lane Cove

WORDS: NICOLA RICHES

Lane Cove is not immune to the rental crisis, even though so many lower north shore residents are blessed. Flying under the radar and serving the community for decades is Pottery Gardens, a place everyone can call home.

Aparliamentary inquiry was established almost one year ago to investigate and report on homelessness amongst older people aged over 55 in New South Wales.

The report stated that it was evident that older people, especially vulnerable groups such as older women and those with lower technical literacy skills, found navigating housing and homelessness support services difficult.

The NSW Ministerial Advisory Council on Ageing said the age of priority housing should be lowered from 80 as a "matter of urgency", in its submission to the inquiry.

The findings of the inquiry recommended 5,000 social and affordable homes be built each year for the next decade, with 20 per cent dedicated to housing older people.

We rarely see the reality of this play out in real life on the Lower North Shore, as blessed as the residents here are, but that’s not to say that it isn’t a reality for some in the community. Sydney Community Services, for example, knows this firsthand.

It’s also perhaps why stories of community and affordable housing in the local area fly under the radar.

One example of an untold community housing story is Pottery Gardens, a small development on Central Avenue (east of the Lane Cove shopping centre) that offers 65 selfcare, self-contained residential units for individuals and couples who have links to Lane Cove.

In 1964, Lane Cove Council resolved to initiate the provision of accommodation for elderly individuals and couples near the Lane Cove shopping centre. The concept had been pioneered and advocated by Claudia Leach, founder of what was then Lane Cove Community Aid (now Sydney Community Services) and the motion was moved by the Mayor, Marjorie Propsting.

The premises were designed by local architect Dick Gailey and construction commenced in 1965 on the first stage of 36 units that were ready for occupation by 1968. The second stage of 30 units commenced in 1973 under the guidance of the Lane Cove Homes for the Aged Association using a Commonwealth Government grant of $300,000.

Now, Pottery Gardens offers 65 residential units (eight of which are suited to couples) to retirees who are looking for something affordable. Rents are kept as a manageable portion of government pensions. Applicants are placed on

a waiting list and interviewed accordingly.

“Life here in Pottery Gardens is great,” said one resident. “We have all the comforts we need in very well-maintained grounds.

“Our village is conveniently situated close to shops, cafes, library, transport, and community services and our accommodation is very affordable,” they added.

The residents are members of an association which manages the village, which is run by a voluntary board comprising 10 people, including two Lane Cove Councillors. The Council is also a financial supporter of Pottery Gardens. The housing development offers much more than just units.

There is access to a social worker, a computer room with three computers and two printers; free wifi; free water (no rates payable by resident); a Village Lounge Room (free TV, kitchen, library and air-conditioning); social functions; free whitegoods (fridge, stove, microwave); eight free laundries (with washers and dryers); a JP service in the office; a maintenance person available for prompt attention to maintenance issues; a defibrillator and First Aid training available for free; out of hours response for emergencies (despite it being ‘independent living’) free bathroom and kitchen facilities (soap, paper, coffee, tea and so on); two BBQ areas provided with gas; free window cleaning annually, free pest control and newspapers each day.

“It’s wonderful place to live,” said another resident. “The studio apartments have everything you need. Each level

has access to Central Avenue and most of us look out onto garden areas.

“It an excellent choice for older people who want to live independently,” they said.

Pottery Gardens continues to this day and beyond to offer an essential accommodation service for many Australians struggling to afford privately rented housing. Further information can be obtained by contacting the Administration Manager on 02 9428 2005 or email: potterygardens@lcru.org.

The Voice Referendum – Let’s talk

North Sydney Electorate Community Conversations

Presented by your Federal Independent MP, Kylea Tink

The media and the Voice

Wed 16 August 6:30-7:45PM

Willoughby Bowling Club

Art and the Voice

Exhibition: Thur 17 August –Sat 19 August

Stanton Library, North Sydney

Bookings and further details

kyleatink.com.au

The media is playing a pivotal role in shaping community opinions about the Voice and the referendum process. Come and hear esteemed journalists Emma Rossi, Michael Pascoe and Alan Sunderland discuss media perspectives on the Voice with Kylea.

Where words can fail, art connects. In this spirit join us at an exhibition of artworks by Malera Bandjalan, Mitakoodi artist Kyra Kum-Sing and Tim Johnson, illustrating the deep and enduring cultural connections between First Australians and multicultural Australia. Co-presented by Chinese Australian Forum.

Opening Night: 17th August, 6pm will feature a discussion moderated by Kylea with Dr Shireen Morris & Simon Chan. A Mandarin and English language forum on August 19 at 12pm moderated by Joyce Yuan with Jonathon Hunyor.

Authorised by Kylea Tink. Level 10, 2 Elizabeth Plaza, North Sydney NSW 2060.

Hunters Hill Ryde Men’s Shed

Situated in the Marist Father’s grounds, Hunters Hill Ryde Men’s Shed was established in 2012.

A member of the Australian Men’s Shed Association, it was incorporated in 2018.

Though small, in comparison to many other Men’s sheds, the aims are no different: to provide a place for men to connect with each other and with the community in which they live. Most members involve themselves in personal and community projects and some just like to have a chat.

Numerous projects have been undertaken on behalf of our community. Recent examples include: a coffee cart for Henley Community Garden and signs for Giant Steps Sydney. A well-equipped workshop for both woodworking and metal work is available to all members. There are many members that help those who feel their skills may be limited. New applications for membership are welcome.

Visit our website at: hhrmensshed.com.au

Email — admin@hhrmensshed.com.au

Call in Mondays, Wednesdays or Thursdays

between 10:00:am and 3:00pm.

Address: 3 Mary Street, Hunters Hill.

INTERESTED IN JOINING?

Contact us via email — admin@hhrmensshed.com.au

Hunters Hill Ryde Men’s Shed is a non-profit community-based organisation.

Visit our website — hhrmensshed.com.au

Our focus is on the health and wellbeing of our members through activity and social interaction and our workshop is equipped with an extensive range of quality wood and metal working tools.

or, just call in Mondays, Wednesdays or Thursdays between 10:00am and 3:00pm.

Our address: 3 Mary Street, Hunters Hill.

We gather and meet new friends, work on projects of our own, or help with making or repairing items for Lifeline and others.

We sit and talk a lot over coffee and tea but there is plenty of help for members who want to learn or improve their wood or metal

We can be a little tricky to find the first time. Enter from 3 Mary Street, walk between the church and Marist Fathers down the road for a minute and you will find us.

Set entirely on a long-haul flight from Sydney to LA, We Only Want What’s Best follows a group of young dancers and their ambitious parents as they enter some dark territory at 30,000 feet.

Local author Carolyn Swindell, better-known to TVO readers as a stand-up comedian and regular columnist, takes readers on a compelling journey in this assured debut novel. While peppered with the laugh-out-loud moments you would expect from a comedian, We Only Want What’s Best tackles serious topics of class and art and the hyper-sexualisation of children, particularly girls, in the world of dance and high art.

Published by Affirm Press and inspired by real-world events, the book asks us to consider who decides what can be art and how far you should go to protect someone else’s child. The thought-provoking and challenging subject matter presented in such an entertaining package makes it perfect for Book Clubs and it will be no surprise to see this story on the big screen before long.

TVO readers may have heard author Carolyn Swindell on ABC Radio’s Thank God it’s Friday or remember her as the host and founder of the Hunters Hill Comedy Festival. This year the Comedy Festival will be one big night only, on Friday 13 October, with some of Sydney’s hottest comedians coming to the neighbourhood for a Comedy and Music Gala. Mark your diaries and watch this space for more information.

TVO has a signed copy of We Only Want What’s Best to give away to a reader.

Simply email editor@thevillageobserver.com.au with We Only Want What’s Best in the subject line and we’ll draw a winner on August 10.

You can find signed copies of We Only Want What’s Best at the Burns Bay Bookery and at Harry Hartog Macquarie Centre and Dymocks in George Street and Chatswood. It’s also available as an e-book and audio book.

Not many people ask for a dose of drama with their long-haul flight, but reviewers are recommending you change your mind and get your hands on this mile-high page-turner.

From little things big things grow

Picture a child fighting for their life in a hospital bed. Their family is desperate for any hope of recovery. They need the best healthcare, the best equipment, and the brightest minds in medicine. But what happens when there are no options left?

It wasn't that long ago that infectious diseases like measles, mumps, and rubella caused thousands of hospitalizations in Australia each year. Polio caused paralysis and death for thousands of Aussie children. Poor children did not have access to the same level of healthcare as the rich ones.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of medical professionals and the generosity of people like you, much has changed. Today, Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation (SCHF) is here for the newborns and the not-yet-borns, the toddlers and the teenagers, from inner cities to outer suburbs, rural and beyond. We believe that every child deserves the best possible healthcare, no matter what. We believe that no child should ever hear the words "Sorry, we can't help you."

We need your help to make that a reality.

By leaving a gift in your Will to Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation, you will be investing in the future of children's healthcare. Your gift can help fund life-saving transport services for the sickest babies and infants. Your gift can support the only palliative care hospice for children in New South Wales, providing long-term ongoing support to children with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Your gift can help fund research that ensures every child has a fighting chance at the childhood they deserve.

Anne McFadden, Head of Planned Giving at SCHF says. ‘Leaving a gift in your Will is a big decision, but what better gift, what better legacy to leave, than the gift of life’.

By planting a tree today, you can ensure that future generations can enjoy its shade. And by leaving a gift in your Will, you can ensure that children of the future can get the best possible healthcare.

If you would like to learn more about leaving a gift in your Will, please contact our Planned Giving Team, on 1800 770 122 or plannedgiving@schf.org.au

“A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit.”

— GREEK PROVERB.

750,000 journeys in 30 years

Back in 1993, community transport pioneer, the Hon. Ted Mack had a vision for a safe and affordable transport service for local residents.

Designed as a way to plug some of the gaps in the local transport network, Community Connect Transport was founded by a dedicated group to provide safe and reliable transport to those who required it.

Since then, the organisation has grown and now assists MyAgedCare clients over 65 years, and NDIS customers who live independently on the Lower North Shore, who are unable to access mainstream public transport.

The service has a fleet of modern vehicles, selected for their ease of access. So successful has the venture been, it has clocked up a massive 750,000 journeys.

Just launched is a new website (www.communityconnect.org.au) where you can access all the information you require to learn about and use the service.

If you require one way or return transport, from home to medical, specialist, hospital or rehab appointments, visit the website to make a booking.

Community Connect Transport also provides clients with regular access to the shops and has a program of Social Outings and Events offering great opportunities to get out and about, enjoy a delicious lunch, meet new people, and build friendships. Up-coming events are listed on the website.

For more information contact: Robert Bell, General Manager, Community Connect Transport. T: 9490 9500

RYDE EISTEDDFOD

– PRESENTS –

A fabulous feast of Speech, Dance and Music, right at your doorstep, throughout July and August.

Hosted by: West Ryde, North Ryde Community Centres and Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club

ACCENT STRINGS: BACH TO BEATLES

CONCERT

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

“Airs and Dances”

Harpist Verna Lee and Philip Murray, flautist and baritone.

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

Tuesday 8 August 2023 at 7.30pm.

Venue: LCM St. Andrew’s Anglican Church, 19 Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove, behind the Post Office, opp. entrance to The Canopy Car Park.

Bookings with TryBooking accessed via our website ww.lanecovemusic.org.au

Tuesday 9th May 2023 at 7.30pm.

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

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

Bookings with TryBooking, accessed via our website from:

Tuesday 18th April 2023: www.lanecovemusic.org.au

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

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

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

Future 2023 Concerts, Tuesdays at 7.30pm: 10th October, 28th November.

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

Nothing

slows down

in

Lane Cove over winter

For some months we have been planning a grand opening celebration of Wadangarri Park in St Leonards. The park will keep children busy as they can safely climb, explore and slide at the height of tree-tops, in the stunning Banksia-themed play equipment. The bespoke structure is the result of months of devotion by designers, engineers, and builders to create what is sure to be childhood memories for generations to come.

The garden beds are planted out and the grass has been nurtured to grow so it’s ready for feet small and big to enjoy. Clever features such as in-bench power points, and winding paths, have added to this creative and functional space. You may have had a sneak peek so make sure you come down and give the park a test run.

We’ve had some beautiful entries in the prestigious Lane Cove Art Award. Entries close on Friday 4 August so make sure you mark your diaries for the opening night on Friday 25 August when the prizes are announced. The successful entries go on exhibition at Gallery Lane Cove. The Lane Cove Art Society, in conjunction with Council, has been running this award for 58 years, and the $15,000 first prize money provided by Lane Cove Council, and high standard of entries make this a must see.

I hope you cheered on the Matildas at the FIFA Women’s World Cup screenings at The Canopy. The standard of play has been incredible and it has been great to see the faces of so many of our young aspiring footballers as they support their favourite teams. Lane Cove is not only home to many people who play and love their football, but also to people who come from all the other competing countries, so the fans have had plenty to watch.

Finally, 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 is music, children’s activities, screenings, exhibitions and more. Make sure you get your hands on one of the programs or come to the launch event on Friday 25 August. Check out Council’s social media or website for more details.

Entries are now open for the Lane Cove Art Award. Artwork by Ros Gervay.

Visit Wadanggari Park soon.

Join us on Friday 25 August for the Lane Cove Festival launch.

What’s on Lane Cove August 2023

For more information and to book, please visit www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

English Conversation Classes

Tuesday 1 August – Tuesday

29 August, 10:00am – 2:45pm, Lane Cove Library, held weekly during the school term

Join a free, small and friendly English class. These classes aim to improve English conversation skills for people with English as a second language. You will cover everyday conversation and information about Australian society, culture and customs.

• 10:00am – 11:30am: Beginner English class – suitable for absolute beginners

• 12:30pm – 1:30pm: Elementary Conversation – some spoken English required

• 1:30pm – 2:45pm: Intermediate Conversation – suitable for more confident speakers

No booking required.

Library and Information Week: Where’s the Source?

Thursday 3 August, 2:30pm – 4:00pm, Lane Cove Library

New technologies like Chat GPT and other generative AI tools can generate large amounts of information but how do we confirm the accuracy of these types of information? How do we use them? Come along and join us as we explore this new technology together! For adults.

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

First Fridays: Sew Much Fun!

Friday 4 August, 3:30pm – 4:30pm, Lane Cove Plaza

Looking for a fun Friday afternoon activity? Come down to Lane Cove Plaza and learn how to sew with Gallery Lane Cove.

Military History Talk – Australian

Signal Intelligence in War

Tuesday 8 August, 6:15pm – 7:45pm, Lane Cove Library

Dr. John Fahey will discuss signals intelligence, the characters who worked in the field and the stories which up until now have flown under the radar and been left untold. Dr Fahey has worked at the Australian Signals Directorate, one of Australia's

leading intelligence organisations and is the author of ‘Australia's First Spies: Traitors and Spies’, and, as an official Commonwealth historian, ‘The Factory: The Official History of the Australian Signals Directorate’. Book online: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Learn to love your laptop

Thursday 10 & 17 August, 10:00am – 11:30am, Lane Cove Library

During these two friendly, small group sessions you will learn to navigate around the screen, keyboard and mouse as well as some basic shortcuts to get you started. BYO laptop and please attend both sessions.

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

Saturday Sounds - James Scott

Saturday 12 August, 10:00am – 12:00pm, Lane Cove Plaza

Get your morning coffee and come down to the Plaza for a special Lane Cove Festival edition of this monthly free event.

Lane Cove Bush Kids Owl Babies

Thursday 17 August or Friday 25 August, 9:45am – 11:15am, Stringybark Reserve Hoot! Woo who! Moo poke! Owls are amazing and so are their calls. Join us to learn about Aussie owls. Enjoy a story about three baby owls, go on a bush walk and make a baby owl of your own to take home. For ages 2-5 years.

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

Science Week: Innovation –Powering Future Industries

Thursday 17 August, 2:30pm - 4:30pm, St Leonards Library

Innovate your green thumb! Get techy with us as we use learn how to build an automatic plant watering sensor system for a pot plant using one of our Discovery Collection kits called Micro:bit. For adults. Cost $5.00 + booking fee.

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

What’s on Lane Cove August 2023

For more information and to book, please visit www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Helping Learner Drivers Become Safer Drivers

Wednesday 23 August, 6:00pm – 7:30pm, online

This free session will offer practical advice about current driving rules and requirements for L and P platers, how learners benefit from supervised on-road driving and how you can help make learning to drive a safe and positive experience. Learner drivers are invited to attend.

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

Lane Cove Festival Launch

Friday 25 August, 3:00pm – 6:00pm, Lane Cove Plaza

Celebrate the launch of the 2023 Lane Cove Festival with an afternoon of fun and excitement in Lane Cove Plaza. There will be children’s activities including craft workshops plus exciting performances.

Lane Cove Art Award Opening Night

Friday 25 August, from 6:00pm, Gallery Lane Cove

The Lane Cove Art Award celebrates the rich cultural diversity of Lane Cove. The exhibition features artwork from Australian artists honouring creative talent across the nation.

Green Screen Photo Art

Friday 25 August, 2:30pm - 4:30pm, St Leonards Library

If you’re feeling creative, bring your own smart phone and join us in our new film studio as we take some green screen photos and explore some of the basics of green screen photography to create our perfect image, ready to share with your friends and family! For adults. Cost $5.00 + booking fee.

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

Hands-on Car Maintenance Workshop

Saturday 26 August, 10:00am –12:00pm, Lane Cove Council Civic Centre Car Park

Learn how to change a tyre, check the tyre pressure and how to check the engine to keep it running smoothly and safely. Learn how anti-theft screws work on your number plate. Learner and P-plate drivers welcome.

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

www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Moments in Music: The Musical Theatre – A Celebration

Wednesday 30 August, 10:00am – 12:00pm, Lane Cove Library

Local musician Graham Ball will showcase musical theatre as a celebration and entertainment. Book online: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Talking Dentistry

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

Reader’s question:

“I’ve been thinking about getting veneers, but I can’t decide between porcelain or composite veneers. Please help!?”

Dr See says: Veneers are a popular cosmetic dental treatment that can enhance the appearance of teeth by correcting various imperfections. Two common types of veneers are porcelain veneers and composite veneers. While both options offer significant benefits, they also come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Composite veneers are made from a tooth-coloured composite resin (plastic) material and are applied directly to the tooth surface. They are cheaper compared to porcelain veneers because they can be completed in one appointment and the materials are less expensive and less durable.

Composites are also aesthetically inferior as the optical qualities of plastic is not the same as porcelain which is made of glass. They are also prone to staining over time from coffee, tea, soy sauce and tobacco. The aesthetics and characterisation are solely dependent on the skills of the clinician. Just like not all artists are the same with their hands and artistic skills. Preparing, placing, finishing and polishing composite veneers is exactly the same as sculpting art directly onto your tooth.

Porcelain veneers are thin shells made from dental ceramic material that are customdesigned to fit over the front surface of teeth. A limitation of porcelain veneers is that they do require some minor tooth preparation, however, this is very minor if it is well planned. They require preparation because a definitive margin is necessary to seat the porcelain veneer in the right location. Just like a dishwasher has a slot to slide the plates in the right position.

They are more expensive than composite as they require more stages to complete, the materials are more expensive and the clinician should have additional training specifically in porcelain veneers. If obtaining the best aesthetic result is the most important criteria for you, then porcelain is the clear winner. Porcelain veneers have the best optical characteristics, are more stain resistant and generally last longer. Similar to the choice of benchtop for a kitchen renovation - stone or laminate? If you understand and accept the limitations, then both are an acceptable option to enhance aesthetics. Let’s look at a case we completed to whiten teeth that had old composite veneers that were staining and chipping. We used advanced techniques and specialised materials to achieve the result.

THE PROBLEMS:

• Dark composite veneers with variations of shades

THE SOLUTION:

• 3 x porcelain veneers and an implant crown

DR ANDREW SEE BDS Hons (Syd), FRACDS, MSc(Lond), PGDipDentImplantology, FCGDENT(UK), FICOI, MFDS RCSEng

HOW ARE WE DIFFERENT?

Dr Andrew See has dedicated the last 20 years to Aesthetic Dentistry and has unique qualifications in cosmetic dentistry and rehabilitation.

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

Dr See completed his Fellowship by primary and secondary examinations for The Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (FRACDS). FRACDS is the mark of professional achievement in dentistry and demonstrates attainment of an advanced level and skill in Dentistry.

If you have any questions you have always wanted to know about aesthetic or implant dentistry write to us at:

info@advanceddentistry sydney.com.au 9816 4885 dr.andrewsee advanceddentistrysydney.com.au

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Menopause

WORDS: DR CARL WONG

Upon reflection, the medical term menopause is an odd word. Officially coined from French doctor CharlesPierre-Louis De Gardanne in 1821, the word has even earlier derivations from the ancient Greek, meaning a ‘pause in men (month)’; that is the time when a woman’s monthly menstrual cycle ends. For centuries the condition has been poorly understood, and history shows the medical profession describing menopausal women as suffering from ‘hysteria’. Even as recently as the mid 1800s, menopause was treated with chloroform, opium and even by vaginal injections using lead! Thankfully our understanding of menopause (and its treatment) has advanced since this.

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive life stage usually occurring between the ages of 45 to 55 years of age and is a natural part of biological ageing. It coincides with a depletion of a woman’s ovarian (egg) supply, leading to a loss of naturally-manufactured oestrogen in the body. Apart from natural ageing, menopause can also be a consequence of surgery (removal of the ovaries – oophorectomy) or chemicals (eg through radiation or chemotherapy damage to the ovaries, or from the use of other medications to intentionally induce menopause as part of treatment of certain conditions).

The transition stage before menopause is called perimenopause and can last for a few years, hallmarked by increasing fluctuations in the menstrual cycle length and finishes when a woman has had no menstrual periods for a 12-month period, which then marks the beginning of the actual menopause life stage.

Typical symptoms of perimenopause include menstrual irregularities, hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbances (including getting to sleep, staying asleep and early morning awakenings), mood swings (including anxiety and depression), and vaginal dryness/thinning (atrophy). This period has been shown to increase the risk of bone loss especially in the lumbar spine (osteoporosis, which 1 in 2 women are at risk of developing) and cardiovascular disease. It also affects cholesterol control and women may develop an increase in body fat, especially around the waist.

The diagnosis of this condition and its various stages is done with your health professional and is based on any of these

typical symptoms displayed and whether they occur at the expected biological age. Though often requested by patients, blood hormonal tests are usually not necessary, as hormone changes are highly variable and levels do not correlate with the severity of symptoms which can fluctuate. Women can also experience temporary paradoxical symptoms of high oestrogen, such as breast tenderness.

The most debilitating symptoms are usually hot flushes and night sweats, affecting up to one third of women in the early stages, and increasing to two thirds by the late stages. Described as intense feelings of heat, hot flushes tend to affect the face and upper body, typically lasting a few minutes. Night sweats as they sound, can lead the sufferer waking up with soaked clothing and bed sheets, leading to poor sleep. Those women who develop these symptoms earlier, often have the longest duration of symptoms

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

‘I don’t have hot flushes…I have short private vacations in tropical-like conditions!’

(AUTHOR ANON)

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive life stage

(on average 12 years). Some studies have shown that those who develop early hot flushes are more at risk of cardiovascular disease. It is not uncommon to still have these symptoms for women in their age sixties. There are things that you can do. Reducing caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods can help. Losing weight and adopting a healthier diet may also assist, if anything by making your lifestyle healthier and maintaining a good mental health

Sleep disturbances are common and there is a strong link to the development of mood disorders and the severity of hot flushes and night sweats. Management includes good sleep hygiene tips, medications, and cognitive behaviour therapies. Women often report the sensation of ‘brain fog’ usually with troubles of verbal memory; this is often temporary and improves with time.

In regards to medications, the most effective and studied are menopausal replacement therapies (MRT, previously known as hormone HRT) prescribed by your doctor. Oestrogen-only preparations can be considered for those who have had a previous hysterectomy, otherwise

Myotherapy

Are you getting neck and shoulder pains while you are reading this article?

Or are your loved ones always telling you to correct your posture while you are seated or standing?

a combined oestogen-progesterone medication will be needed due to protect the endometrial lining women who still have a uterus (womb). Topical oestrogen can be effective for vaginal dryness and atrophy. Although often requested by patients, there is limited or weak evidence for alternative or complementary therapies.

There are risks with using MRT, and is contraindicated in those with active breast cancers, and other certain bloodclotting conditions. That aside, the risks of using MRT is considered comparable to those not using HRT within the first five years, but breast cancer risks increase after five years of continuous use. After this period, a regular discussion with your health professional about the ongoing need for MRT and of regular breast cancer surveillance is vital.

There are quite a number of MRT considerations, and the choice needs to be individualised and tailored to the woman’s specific needs, symptoms that affect her the most and ensuring there are no contraindications for use. There are always options available to manage this challenging phase of a woman’s life stage.

It's time you invest in your health with Myotherapy services. Here at Switch Physiotherapy Lane Cove, we don't just offer Physiotherapy treatments, we deliver a modality that is more than just your regular shopping centre massages. We deliver quality hands on manual therapy, applied with soft/deep tissue therapy, dry needling, traditional fire cupping and plenty more.

Pain Relief: Myotherapy helps alleviate muscular pain and discomfort through targeted techniques, such as trigger point therapy and myofascial release.

Improved Flexibility: By addressing muscle imbalances and restrictions, myotherapy can enhance flexibility and range of motion.

Injury Prevention: Regular myotherapy sessions can help prevent injuries by identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate.

Stress Reduction: Myotherapy promotes relaxation and reduces stress by releasing tension in muscles and promoting a sense of well-being.

Enhanced Posture: Through corrective techniques, myotherapy can improve posture by addressing muscular imbalances and promoting proper alignment.

Our offer to our Lane Cove Community, Massage Subscription levels starting from $100 per month. Call 02 9427 8333 to start today.

Midsummer Dreams, bringing Mendelssohn Scottish and Beethoven Eighth to Chatswood

Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra completes its 2023 10th Anniversary season with a mammoth national tour now taking in Chatswood.

Hunters Hill theatre heads to the Vatican

A definite change of pace for Hunters Hill Theatre’s next production which opens on Friday 18 August, but equally as intriguing and explosive.

This will be the Australian Premiere for POPE2POPE written by Australian playwright Melvyn Morrow who says: “For the last 600 years, a conversation between two living popes would have been a theatrical fantasy, but since the resignation of Pope Benedict and the election of rock star Pope Francis, pope to pope has become a reality. Pope2Pope imagines what might follow and reveals the underbelly of the Vatican and the papacy. Everyone has secrets, but papal secrets are especially... well, you’ll soon discover.”

“Think Agatha Christie in the Vatican,” says Director Elaine Hudson who is making her directorial debut with Hunters Hill Theatre and who has put together a superb cast and crew.

Hunters Hill Theatre is celebrating two years at its new home on Level 2 of Club Ryde and has quickly become a fixture in the local community with many locals not only experiencing community theatre for the first time but also volunteering to help out behind the scenes such as set building, painting and helping with costumes.

Tickets are now on sale for POPE2POPE - $32 concession $35 General. You can book via the website www. huntershilltheatre.com.au or telephone 02 9879 7765

Like all European young men of means in the 19th century, Felix Mendelssohn set off on a Grand Tour of Europe at the age of 20. Unusually, however, Mendelssohn elected to begin in Scotland – and while there he was greatly moved by the dramatic landscape and the bloody history of Mary Queen of Scots. He began writing his Scottish Symphony while on his tour, although he didn’t complete it until a decade later. But clearly, Scotland had left its mark on him, and the symphony seems to evoke the striking countryside. Equally evocative is Mendelssohn’s Overture to Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream, written when he was just 16 – the quick, playful strings at the start suggest the scampering of fairies’ feet, and later one can hear the braying of Bottom after he has been turned into a donkey.

Beethoven’s Eighth Symphony features a lightness of touch, but it is perhaps his most radical symphony. It completely abandons the traditional structure of a symphony, leaps from loud to soft without warning, and at every turn surprises and confounds expectations.

• MENDELSSOHN Overture to A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Op.61 (1826)

• BEETHOVEN Symphony No.8 in F major, Op.93 (1812)

• MENDELSSOHN ‘Scottish’ Symphony No.3 in A minor, Op.56 (1829-42)

• Conductor - Rachael Beesley

• Tue 8 August 7.00pm | The Concourse, Chatswood

• Full program, information/bookings: www.arco.org.au

BY MELVYN MORROW

DIRECTED BY ELAINE HUDSON

100 Words

Milton’s time machine was a success. He’d journeyed through the ages, righting historical wrongs. Posing as a waiter, he’d poisoned young Hitler’s Sacher torte, tasered Anne Boleyn’s executioner, saving her slender neck and tackled the gunman on the grassy knoll, averting the assassination of JFK.

His new aquatic time machine could explore sunken pirate ships and lost cities. On its first expedition, he descended to the ocean floor, reached the Titanic and resurrected the passengers and crew. The iceberg warnings were not ignored this time and the Titan submersible’s doomed voyage never happened, in fact…it had never been built.

Perihan Bozkurt, Lane Cove

How is it with your soul?

A question consigned to a bygone age when the world seemed somehow kinder, less self-involved and undoubtibly more religious. As I begin my fifth month in Lane Cove I’m discovering that not everything is as it seems.

By Liam McKenna, Community Chaplain.

‘Spiritual not Religious’ has been a popular label for some time. To be ‘religious’ conveys the kind of institutional overtones that sends many running for the hills. To be ‘spiritual,’ in contrast, suggests something much more personal. There are countless books, blogs, websites and gyms telling us how to live a healthy and fruitful life, with remedies to unlock the secrets of mind, body and spirit only a subscription away!

At the Community Chaplaincy, we adopt a more holistic approach, seeking to nurture a healthy balance of mind, body and spirit and working in the space between –something we call, soul-care.

We find that soul-care is something that we build through our actions together in community –something to be practiced, rather than a singular metric to be achieved.

“I can’t say I’ve ever been asked how it is with my soul, but I‘m increasingly asking others.”

Amidst the bustling airport, I eagerly scanned the exit, searching through the weary, jet-lagged passengers for a glimmer of recognition. Then I spotted them, he a little bundle in her arms. My heart soared with anticipation as I closed the distance, the overwhelming realisation that I was about to meet my first grandchild consuming me. I extended my arms, and as he was placed into my embrace. I felt the joy of his delicate breath upon my face. He gazed back at me with wide, curious eyes. Time stood still, encapsulating a moment of pure connection and profound love—a forever precious memory in all our hearts.

Stephen Miller, Lane Cove

The community chaplaincy has wisdom to share but we’re not experts on living life! We desire to add value to those who share their time with us, and we strive as far as we’re able to provide you with insight, knowledge, and tools for you to engage upon the path of your choosing; soul-care, which honours the interconnection of mind, body, and spirit, and; embracing and advocating practices from the ancient past through to the present.

Attending to soul needn’t be heavy lifting. Small steps, through repetition of effort, through the accumulation of soul-care practices tested against the challenges of everyday life.

Want to know more? Why not call in to one of our activities, or drop me a line…

Liam McKenna

Lane Cove Community Chaplain

P: 0404 596 592

E: lanecovechaplain@gmail.com

www.lanecovecc.com

Supported by Lane Cove Uniting Church

What I watched on TV…

Despite the cool winter temperatures outside, these captivating shows will warm up your evenings, says TV expert Stephen Miller. So get cozy on your couch and let the TV marathon commence.

In My Skin – Series 1 & 2 (Stan)

In My Skin is a captivating comingof-age tale that follows 16-year-old Bethan as she navigates teenage life’s occasionally humorous but often painful insecurities. Each episode is filled with witty dialogue and clever storytelling, drawing viewers into Bethan’s world and allowing them to connect with her deeply. Gabrielle Creevy’s brilliant portrayal of Bethan (she won a BAFTA for it) is utterly absorbing.

Why you should watch it: You’re missing out if you haven't watched this absolute gem.

Hijack – (Apple TV+)

When Flight KA29 is hijacked during its seven-hour journey from Dubai to London, Sam Nelson (Idris Elba), a skilled negotiator, strives to save everyone onboard using his expertise. While some critics found this a turbulent ride and left wishing for a parachute, my seat was comfortable enough. Elba’s first-class performance and undeniable screen presence will keep you eagerly awaiting the flight’s next real-time instalment. ★★★★

Why you should watch it: While some critics were left grounded, you should take your own test flight.

Limbo – (SBS OnDemand)

This compelling Swedish series (reminiscent of The Slap) begins with a late-night phone call that reshapes the lives of mothers Ebba, My, and Gloria. Set against the backdrop of a tragic car accident, the series poses thought-provoking questions about blame, forgiveness, and the realities of existence. With Ebba’s son Jakob hovering between life and death, the three women find their friendship and priorities put to the ultimate test.

Why you should watch it: This show delivers a poignant and compelling TV experience

The Bear – Series 2 (Disney+)

The Bear triumphantly overcomes every obstacle usually encountered when making a second season—a remarkable achievement given the exceptional quality and widespread acclaim of Series 1. It seamlessly transitions between absolute chaos and unexpected calm, with the latter delivering equal, if not more significant, impact. The Bear excels in every area, from outstanding writing, cinematography, and direction to the stellar performances by the cast.

Why you should watch it: This is about as good as a television series gets

The Afterparty – Series 1 & 2 (Apple TV+)

The Afterparty is a classic murder mystery that follows the typical formula of an unlikable victim, and multiple suspects with various motives. However, the show goes beyond this convention by having each suspect retell the night’s events in their own distinctive genre. Aniq in a rom-com, Zoë in a trippy cartoon, Brett in an action comedy, and fame-seeker Yasper via a musical. Don’t let too much time pass between episodes, or you may be unsure who’s who, what’s what, and whodunit. ★★★★

Why you should watch it: The Afterparty will leave you dying for more!

Joe Pickett – Series 1 & 2 (Paramount+)

Joe Pickett is a mild-mannered and unassuming Wyoming game warden with a gentle voice. Despite being such a relatable figure, he is often underestimated by those around him. He’s considered a source of amusement in the local community, a reputation he earned from arresting the governor for fishing without a license. However, there’s more to Joe than meets the eye, as we come to realise in this captivating modern Western murder mystery.

★★★★½

Why you should watch it: Saddle up and enjoy the ride!

Lane Cove Theatre Company presents Cloudstreet

– the huge Australian classic to bring you out of winter hibernation

Spring is on its way and Lane Cove Theatre Company’s production of Cloudstreet is just the thing to throw off those winter blues and warm your heart.

An epic tale of two Australian families dealing with heartbreak and joy over the course of two decades following the war, united by their co-habitation of a sprawling Perth house with a haunted past.

“It reflects a contemporary Australian mythology, with very Australian settings and characters, but is universal in its themes. Families are challenged by crises, fractured, and come back together again, but the play is also very funny, and never forgets to show the humour and camaraderie between brothers and sisters, husbands and wives, parents and children.”

The house at number one Cloud Street is a great continent where two damaged clans collide. The two families—the Lambs and the Pickles—are as contrasting as the Australia they inhabit. Teetotallers and tipplers, workhorses or wastrels, fate makers versus chance chasers. But really, they’re two sides of the same coin; one that was tossed during World War II and remained in motion for decades.

The power of this staggering Australian saga is more haunting than the ghosts who speak out from the walls. It’s more elusive than the serial killer who prowls their neighbourhood. It’s transcendent, like the Lambs and the Pickles themselves, whose lives and loves live on today.

Director Ryan Whitworth-Jones says: “Cloudstreet by Winton emphasises our distinctive position globally and presents the potential for a more robust identity—one that allows Indigenous cultural knowledge and Western culture to coexist harmoniously, mutually influencing and engaging with each other.”

ADAPTED BY NICK ENRIGHT AND JUSTIN MONJO

FROM THE NOVEL BY TIM WINTON

DIRECTED BY RYAN WHITWORTH-JONES

• 11-27 August 2023 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 www.trybooking.com/CDBZL

Huge Savings with Super Early Bird Cruise Deals

THE HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH AT SEA

New cruise dates for the 2024/2025 season have been announced for Disney Cruise Lines “Magic at Sea”, set to visit Australian shores from October to February. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the thrilling experience of a Disney Cruise with signature experiences such as character dining, Broadway style shows, imaginative kids clubs and fun filled deck parties

A Disney Cruise is the perfect holiday for families. Daily life on board offers a wealth of kid friendly activities, as well as recreation opportunities for adults including spa experiences, intimate dining and exciting nightlife options and an adult only pool area.

There is not only the chance to mingle with your favourite Disney characters but also Star Wars and Marvel personalities. For the foodies, Imaginative Dining combines gourmet specialities with imaginative storytelling, providing a unique culinary experience.

Don’t miss your chance to cruise with Disney. Cabins are available for both the 2023/24 and 2024/25 departures with a range of itineraries and cruise durations leaving Sydney. Contact our knowledgeable team for more information and to secure cabin for your next family holiday.

SCENIC ECLIPSE II

Scenic Eclipse – where ultra-luxury meets discovery. Book yourself on the experience of a lifetime cruising on the state-of-the-art Scenic Eclipse II, one of two World’s First Discovery Yachts, setting the benchmark in ultra-luxury ocean cruising.

In April this year the Scenic Eclipse II set sail on her inaugural voyage. Now with two world-class Discovery Yachts, Scenic Eclipse will take you further than ever before across 500 ports and over 148 departures through 63 countries on all seven continents.

The Scenic Eclipse II is essentially a copy of the Eclipse with some additional enhancements for guests to enjoy such as; the newly named Chef’s Garden @ Epicure (an immersive dining experience and presentation), new salt therapy lounge and expanded steam room at the onboard Senses Spa, a brand new Sky Bar on Sky Deck with indoor and outdoor seating and upgraded room layouts in the Owner’s Penthouse Suites and Spa Suites.

Super early bird offers are now on sale for the 2024/25 Scenic Eclipse with huge savings across an array of itineraries throughout Antarctica, The Arctic and Northern Europe, Australia and New Zealand, Europe and the Mediterranean, Asia, the Pacific Islands and the Americas.

Why not explore the gorgeous Kimberley Coast on board the Scenic Eclipse II from April 2024?

Be sure to contact our award-winning travel agency for information on this and any of the other luxury cruise itineraries on board the Scenic Eclipse II.

9418 6866 lanecove@helloworld.com.au

Super early bird offers are now on sale

ART WITH LOCAL ARTIST ROS GERVAY

The Secret Ingredients for Finding Happiness

It's such a cliche, isn't it? This search for happiness. As if it's a destination, an endpoint and when one reaches it, all will finally be well. In my 40 years on this planet, I have learned a few things. The first is that caffeine is a non-negotiable part of my life and the second is that this quest for happiness is simpler than we've been led to believe.

Astrologically the planets have delivered us a wild roller coaster recently and it's had the aspiring artists that I support going deep and reflecting on their needs, their desires and their direction. What do they need to be happy? What are they seeking? What are they working toward?

Three key stand-out points that have come of this reflective period, are:

A greater purpose aligned with who you are as a unique individual is an essential part of a happy life. This requires self-knowledge, self-acceptance and the bravery to exist in a state of authenticity, no matter how vulnerable that makes you feel.

The cherry on top when it comes to your purpose is considering your legacy or the positive impact you can have on this world.

Gratitude and appreciation for what you have acts as a magnet for more of what makes you happy. More alignment. More authentic purpose. More beauty around you.

Happiness is not an endpoint but instead is a collection of happy moments. Once we have our purpose sorted, the rest is simple.

For my mentees, art ticks many of these boxes, giving them those tick-a-box happy moments in time as well as an aligned purpose and something to be grateful for.

How can you find more happiness in your day today? Report back by email to ros@rosgervayart.com

If you would like to make some art and amp up the happiness, you are invited to explore my free tutorials on YouTube @rosgervayart or inside my free Facebook group ‘Permission to Paint Free Community.’

See you there!

COOK WITH BERN THE CHEF Lengotten

It’s the lentils you have forgotten. Virtuously purchasing, jarring, and then over the months, they kind of get pushed to the back of the pantry, not on purpose, more so an involuntary sifting of food storage life. Lentils are a rich source of lean protein dietary fibres, iron and folate. Adding lentils to our diet has multiple health benefits.

There are four main categories of lentils: brown, green, red/yellow, and specialty.

Making them a regular part of meals, you might like to think of them differently - not as the main part, but as a dressing or sauce. Yellow, brown and red lentils cook down to a mushy texture, and so, they can make a great coating or dressing for more vegetables, fish or meat. Green and black lentils keep their shape and texture after cooking. They also absorb oils and vinegars very well, so they can be incorporated as a dressing.

Mediterranean Lentil Dressing

1 cup French Du Puy or Black Beluga lentils

3 cups water

1 bay leaf

1 small red onion

1 tablespoon of organic tomato paste

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

1 bunch of fresh chives

1 bunch of fresh mint leaves

Rinse the lentils and put them into a saucepan with the water and the bay leaf. Cover and bring to a boil; cook for 20 minutes, until all the liquid is absorbed. While the lentils are cooking, saute the onion with the olive oil, add the tomato paste, keep stirring for 4 - 5 minutes, remove from the heat, add the vinegar and stir to emulsify. Drain the cooked lentils, discard the bay leaf and tip into a large mixing bowl, pour over the dressing and leave to cool. Stir through the chopped chives and mint. Season with salt and pepper; use to dress salads, just grilled fish, over roasted vegetables or baked chicken.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

arts review

SPRING FASHION PARADE

Thursday 14 September,

Enjoy morning tea, and a parade presented by Stafford Fashions Garments, and Jewellery by Tina Hyman, available for purchase

10:15am – Noon, St Andrews

Uniting Church, cnr Kenneth & Christina Streets, Longueville. $10 per person

Enquiries:Janet on 0455 741 414

Proceeds will help support the EXODUS FOUNDATION

All Welcome

Pizza + Movie Nights

@ Longueville UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville

TIME : 6.30pm Pizza; 7.15pm Movie

Tuesday 1 August :

Saving Mr Banks (2013) – Biographical drama of how Walt Disney tried for 20 years and finally succeeded in bringing Mary Poppins to the screen. Starring Emma Thompson and Tom Hanks.

Tuesday 5 September : Stan and Ollie (2018) – starring Steve Coogan and John C Reilly.

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

Time 4U Every Wednesday @ 10am till Noon. Cost $5.00

@ Longueville Uniting Church Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville Friendly and fun mornings with homemade morning tea in St Andrew’s UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville. After chatting over morning tea, we continue with the fascinating ABC series “Backroads”.

Enquiries : Frank on 9427 3215.

MIXED SOCIAL GOLF

ANC golf established 1955 are looking for new members. Demographic 50+ WHERE: games are played at 6 different courses - Lower North Shore.

WHEN: every second Sunday.

Feb - Nov. COST: $50 pa ( to cover cost of prizes) plus prevailing green fee. REQUIREMENTS: no handicap necessary. Understanding the basic rules and etiquette of the game required.

CONTACT: robertharrington141@gmail. com or petersmith55@aapt.net.au

Dreaming in French

by Vanessa McCausland

I recently had the pleasure of reading the new Vanessa McCausland novel Dreaming in French (Harper Collins, July 23) and I cannot recommend it highly enough. I found it to be an absolute page turner, with complex well-developed characters and a setting to dream for.

Dreaming in French opens with our main character Saskia receiving ‘an inheritance she never expected’, she’s a 40 something wife and mother with a carefully constructed ‘perfect life’ she decides to go back to île de Ré with her family to claim her half of a crumbling villa and reckon with her past…it’s a story full of wild beaches, salt marshes, oranges and black coffee. It is an absolutely ‘stunning novel’ Natasha Lester called it and I completely concur. The perfect antidote to our Sydney winter.

I’ve been a huge Vanessa McCasuland fan since 2019 with her debut The Lost Summers of Driftwood. They’re novels about real people coming to terms with real issues. I usually finish a Vanessa McCausland pondering real, timely issues with new insights and perspective. Dreaming in French is no exception. Through this novel we explore the concept of mothers and daughters, as well as the nature of language, ‘how much of a person was lost in translation’ for example, indeed ‘one who speaks only one language is one person, but one who speaks two languages is two people’ it was such an interesting novel from that perspective.

We come to know Saskia Wyle, her husband and their daughters well through these pages. We also come to love the 19 year old au pair who travels to a distant French island in search of adventure, who befriends a French heiress and a saunier/ want to be actor and experiences that intense, all consuming friendship that only happens once in a lifetime..we watch Saskia reconcile to the fact these two people are one in the same. It sounds grandiose, but I promise it isn’t. It is a ‘stunning, emotive tale’ (Hannah Richell) and I could not put it down.

It is for fans of commercial fiction, for anyone who needs to armchair travel, for anyone who looks back and wonders, for Francophiles, for anyone who loves a disrupted narrative…I loved Dreaming in French and I know you will too.

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.

The Lane Cove Cinema, the Cartoon and the Cavalryman

WORDS: KAY LIEPER

Andrew Moore places the genesis of Francis de Groot's 'special relationship with the Sydney Harbour Bridge' precisely in the Lane Cove Picture Theatre. There, on 11 January 1932 an explosive speech by the leader of the New Guard, Eric Campbell, set in motion a press frenzy that sparked widespread public interest. Of all Campbell's speeches between 1931 and 1932, Moore states 'the number of significant implications contained in this one Lane Cove address is freakish.' Comparing the NSW Premier Jack Lang with the premier's bull, Ebenezer, Campbell suggested the bull won, because boiling down the bull would produce glue, something useful, whereas boiling down the Premier would produce only 'bullshit'. In his autobiography, de Groot notes:

I really thought the theatre roof would lift as a result of the delighted howls of mirth that greeted this perfect description of how Mr. Lang appeared to the average 'Digger' member of the New Guard.

It was at this meeting that the police stenographer recorded more of Campbell's words:

I am certainly determined that a man who drags our honour into the mire, who appoints Communists to the Upper House, … I say we in our generation will be forever dishonoured if we allow him, who masquerades as a Premier to open that Bridge … Mr. Lang will not open the Bridge across the Harbour.

The rumour mill went into overdrive with Campbell stating, 'the situation is well in hand' and New Guardsmen taunting police with 'Lang will not open the bridge.' Albert Willis, Premier Lang's agent general in London, even reported that Westminster gossip was that the Premier was to be thrown off the Bridge to feed the sharks. In fact, Campbell and the New Guard had nothing planned.

It was a cartoon that sparked the inspiration of Frank de Groot, just two days before the opening of the Bridge. Over a cup of tea, he glanced through a copy of Smith's Weekly and there the larrikin pen of Joseph Johnson set the wheels in motion. In what is now an irony of history, Johnson's cartoon depicts an ordinary worker, on foot, stepping up and cutting the ribbon with a pocket knife. 'The man who beat Mr. Lang to the tape' was the caption. de Groot explains his reaction:

[It was] one of those 'brain waves' where the entire picture presents itself. Borrow a horse, dress up in uniform, sharpen a sword, wait until the ribbon is stretched taught, charge it at a gallop, cut the ribbon before Lane and declare the Bridge open on behalf of the decent and respectable citizens of New South Wales. Keep Campbell's promise, prevent the New Guard disintegrating, and while showing Lang and his mob that they cannot push us around let the sharp sword be a hint to the Communists that revolution here would not be a one sided affair.

Andrew Moore suggests that if Eric Campbell had foreseen how 'the name of de Groot would pass into Australian folklore and his own would be largely forgotten' he might have insisted that he himself mount the horse and carry the sword. But it was Frank de Groot who was eminently equipped to carry out the action. Born in Ireland, de Groot had served in the South of Ireland Imperial Yeomanry in 1907, the 5th Dragoon Guards in 1909 and in 1914-18 served with the 15th Kings Hussars, a regiment that fought in many of the battles of World War I, for which he had been awarded a ceremonial sword and the 15th Battalion, Tank Corps as acting captain. Emigrating to Australia after the war he became a well-connected antique dealer and fine furniture maker, even making a ceremonial chair for the Governor-General, Sir Isaac Isaacs. Eric Campbell notes de Groot was a likeable man with ability and an Irish brogue 'that he reserved for moments of intensity'.

De Groot and Campbell also believed his scheme had some legal justification. In de Groot's view, placing an obstacle such as a ribbon across a public highway contravened public order legislation that prevented free progress along the King's Highway. The matter was later debated in court and de Groot was vindicated and found not to have contravened any law. He promptly sued the police for wrongful arrest of a legitimate officer of the Hussars which was settled out-of-court.

Moore recounts from de Groot's autobiography his progress to the ceremony on the Bridge:

Near the entrance to Government House, there was great congestion. De Groot found his passage blocked by participants and floats in 'The Old Time Show', an historical

pageant that was part of the official procession. Amidst a Cobb and Co coach, hansom cabs and penny-farthing bikes, a lone horseman was inconspicuous. Assuming that he was part of the show, an Irishman in charge of one of the cabs, dressed in an ancient bowler hat, addressed a question. Peeved that he apparently looked more comical than official, de Groot imperiously told the Dubliner in his best British officer's accent: 'I say old boy are you by any chance addressing me?' Eric Campbell must have been right about how his friend's Irish brogue surfaced at times of excitement. The cabbie replied, 'Jaysus ye're from Dublin like meself. Ye're part of The Show arent ye! Can't beat the feckin' Irish!'

This, it seems, was the most recognition de Groot endured that fateful day, that is, until it was too late.

In fact, Eric Campbell records a final encounter: The area simply bristled with police who had been detailed to watch out for any New Guard activity. Sergeant Meldrum, who was in charge … took up his position on foot next to and a few feet away from de Groot. On one occasion Sergeant Meldrum accidently brushed against de Groot's stirrup, looked up, and touching his cap said, 'Sorry Sir'! And the rest is legendary larrikin history.

Article first published in the Lane Cove Historical Society Newsletter in May 2012

THREE HEALTH BENEFITS OF WRITING YOUR BIOGRAPHY

There are many research studies that reveal the health benefits of writing one's life story. Over the years I worked with numerous people in helping them write their biographies. Many of the individuals who started to reflect and write about their lives experienced positive changes.

The three benefits I witnessed in the people I worked with had to do with improving motivation and overcoming depression, anxiety and loneliness.

 Benefit #1 Keeps Your Mind Sharp

Eda Utku Founder and Client Relationship Manager at MyMemoirMaker.com

When individuals reflect on their lives and jog their memories, they begin to remember much more than they thought was possible. Some people start to notice and record the small miracles in their day-to-day lives. All of this focus on the goodness of life improves the quality of the mind.

 Benefit #2 Motivates You

When we are working on an exciting project, such as creating a biography for our loved ones, we are filled with purpose. This is the key to looking forward to each and every day.

 Benefit #3 Connects You with Family and Community

Writing a biography isn't a lonely process. When memory fails, we can pick up the phone and talk to our loved ones or go into the community and do research. There are so many people and libraries around us which hold the information we may have forgotten over the years. It was fulfilling for me to see that some of the people I worked with ended up organising reunions with family members they hadn't seen or heard from in years.

Writing a a life story takes time and can be challenging at times but we are here to help you every step of the way.

A MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO, GILL BATT

At the end of this month, it will be National Meals on Wheels Day, on Wednesday 30 August 2023. This day acknowledges the exceptional contribution of the fabulous volunteers who ensure older Australians remain nourished, supported, and safe at home every day.

The home-delivered meals service has a long history in Lane Cove. Back in 1961, the founder of Sydney Community Services, Claudia Leach, recognised that many local senior residents were isolated and required help from their local community.

As Claudia campaigned to be elected to the local council, she also encouraged the formation of Lane Cove Community Aid, now called Sydney Community Services. One of the main services developed and offered was the delivery of hot meals to people who otherwise had no other means of obtaining a proper nutritious meal. This evolved into Meals on Wheels, the iconic worldwide brand recognised for both its food delivery, but also for engaging local volunteers to keep seniors safe and involved in local life.

At its inception, volunteers would ladle food out of two large pots on hotplates in the boot of a car. Volunteers then hand-delivered the hot meals to those in need and often stopped for a quick chat. To this day, Meals On Wheels remains unique with its personable service. Unlike other meal delivery services, volunteers provide a friendly face, can stop for a quick talk, and also make sure the client is safe and well.

Today’s meals are prepared in a state-of-the-art kitchen and packaged in high-quality microwaveable packs. We offer a wide choice of meals, from a variety of suppliers, and the meals are frozen and designed to be reheated at a time convenient to the client. Our menu also includes fresh salads, sandwiches, and ploughmans, and are delivered every day to residents all over Lane Cove and Hunters Hill.

The home delivery of meals continued throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and all the limitations posed. Volunteers received training and directed clients to put a table outside their front door to receive their meals and supplies. Volunteers were then able to assess the health of the client whilst also delivering their meal in a socially distanced, sanitised manner. During this period there was a 30% increase in home delivered meals as so many were reluctant to venture to the shops during lockdown.

From July 2021 to June 2022, Sydney Community Services delivered 20,224 meals. Our menu continues to evolve and the demand for our meals consistently increases. If you, or someone you know would benefit from nutritious home delivered meals, a wellness check and a chat, then just contact Sydney Community Services, provide your My Aged Care number, select your meals and preferred delivery times, and then just wait to receive your meals.

A friendly smile, a chat, a meal and knowing somebody will drop by to say hello changes the lives of many in the local community, and it’s not just the clients who value this contact. Ask any of our volunteers and they will tell you connecting with and making a difference in somebody else's day, makes their day. If you would like to volunteer, just contact us. The satisfaction of doing something practical, yet personal, is rewarding and allows volunteers to remain connected with their local community.

Your involvement, support, recommendations and orders will allow us to maintain the vision and work of Claudia Leach. We will continue to offer great choice, healthy and tasty food options, a regular visit from a friendly face who not just delivers the meals but ensures our seniors remain safe and engaged in local life.

Why choose home-delivered meals from Sydney Community Services?

 Our service is available for people living in Lane Cove, Ryde, and Hunters Hill council areas.

 No contracts, no minimum order, and no cancellation charges.

 Daily, weekly or occasional deliveries – as much as you like and as often as you require.

 Large variety of high protein, healthy meals, desserts and soups.

 Lighter options available including fresh salads and sandwiches.

 Nutritionally optimised and balanced for older people

 Suitable for diabetics and available in standard, puree, soft and cut-up textures.

 Delivered by community volunteers who help to provide personal contact and connection with people in their own home. Free delivery and free smiles!

 Funded by the Australian Government under the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP). Eligibility is determined by My Aged Care.

Join our team and become an Office Administrator

The role:

If you are looking for a part-time, varied role that will lead a culture of excellence through the delivery of outstanding customer service, office and facilities management, then this may be the role for you.

Why work with us?

Sydney Community Services (SCS) is dedicated to a strong community presence and is committed to supporting people to live full and independent lives, engaging communities, supporting volunteering, and delivering care and support at the times when people need it most.

What is required?

You will require excellent written and verbal communication skills, display a proven ability to take initiative and also be able to identify continuous improvement opportunities. We are looking for someone who has demonstrated time management, administrative and organisational skills, has a commitment to a culture of customer service excellence and

has an ability to adapt to computer systems and software programs to ensure an efficient and effective service delivery to clients and participants.

Where:

This role will be located at our Hunters Hill office, 46 Gladesville Rd.

Work type:

This is a part-time, job share role. The position will be Monday and Tuesday. Find out more:

If you would like to find out more, then contact us. We would love to meet you and discuss the role further.

P: 02 8598 7051

E: support@sydneycs.org

The full job description can be viewed: www.sydneycs.org/join-the-sydney-community-servicesteam/

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 would like to place volunteers in the following positions:

• Gardeners - We would like 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.

• Chatswood Social Club is a meeting place for adults with intellectual disability. We are hoping to find volunteers to help with activities such as dance, music therapy, cooking, games etc. on Tuesdays, from 6pm – 8.30pm.

• Home Visiting Volunteers – This position involves visiting a local resident in their home. Share a cup of tea or a walk and provide some much needed company.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in any of the volunteer vacancies, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Yvonne Hughes, for more information and find out how you can get involved. P: 9427 6245 E: yhughes@sydneycs.org

Volunteer today and help make a difference.

WHAT’S ON AUGUST 2023

Book Club

Monday 21 August. 1.30-2.30pm

Cost: $5 inc book and afternoon tea

Mah Jong

Wednesdays 1.00-3.45pm

Cost: $5 inc afternoon tea

Scrabble

Thursdays 10 and 24 August 10am - 12noon

Lane Cove Hub Activities

HEAD OFFICE

1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove 9427 6425

Movement Matters

Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Accepting expressions of interest for Term 3. Contact us for more details.

NEW CLASS: Fridays, 10am-11am All abilities class. Call for details.

Hunters Hill-Ryde Hub Activities

46 Gladesville Road, Hunters Hill 8598 7051

Seniors Hub

All-day tailored program for seniors, from Monday to Friday. Includes excursions, picnics, and wellness activities. Door-to-door transport and nutritious meals and snacks catering for all dietary requirements are included. This month you can visit Olympic Park, Sing along with Leyla, or have a picnic lunch at Balmoral Beach, to name just a few outings. Cost: $35

Contact us for a monthly program. E: rliu@sydneycs.org

Room available for Hire

@ The Meeting House Hub

23a Stokes St Lane Cove

Meeting House Hub Activities

23a Stokes Street, Lane Cove North 9003 1399

Large double room. Outside area

Plus kitchen. Cost: $55 ph incl GST

For pricing and info contact:

P: 9003 1399

E: support@sydneycs.org

Seniors Shopping Bus

Tuesdays and Thursdays

Return trip from your home to Lane Cove shops. Cost: $12

P: 9003 1399

E: jvenn@sydneycs.org

Accepting beginner players for October commencement. Call to register.

Social Bridge / Solo / Rummikub

Thursdays 12.30-3.30pm

Cost: $5 inc afternoon tea

Seniors Social Support:

For Afghan, Chinese, Iranian, Italian, and Spanish seniors

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

Senior Services

Seniors Social Bus Outings

Mondays and Wednesdays

Contact us for details

Movie and Morning Tea

• Monday 28 August

• Shawshank Redemption

• 10.30-1.30pm

• Cost: $30

P: 9003 1399

E: jvenn@sydneycs.org

Cost: $5 inc morning tea

Table Tennis

Fridays, 12.00-4.00pm

Cost: $5

The Velveteens

2nd Monday each month 10am – 4pm

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

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

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

E: rliu@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.

For more details contact Rosemary

P: 9427 6425

E: rliu@sydneycs.org

ENQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS FOR ACTIVITIES: 9427 6425 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

Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting out, this is your opportunity to be part of a vibrant tennis community!

All players must register prior to playing – please call Julie 9427 6425. We look forward to seeing you on the court!

Older Women

Exercise Class

Tuesdays

Strength and balance exercise

Time: 9.45am - 10.45am

Cost: $12.00

E: ccampion@sydneycs.org

Contact us to join the waiting list.

Day Trips for Seniors

Tuesdays and Fridays

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. This month have lunch overlooking the Nepean River or lunch at Narrabeen Lakes.

When: Fridays

Departs: 10.00am from Lane Cove Hub, Pottery Lane

Returns: 2.00pm

Cost: $20 including morning tea and lunch

E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Disability Supports

Group community access activities from Monday – Friday in centres and community.

Activities include drama ensemble, creative movement, full and halfday excursions, Sailablity, art groups and virtual meetups.

HOURS OF OPERATION:

8.30am - 4.30pm I Monday - Friday

www.sydneycs.org

SAVE THE DATE: Memoir Making Workshop

Celebrate and share your life.

Tuesday 5 September 2023, 10am – 11.30am

We will help you celebrate your life, possibly your time in the local Lane Cove Community, and get the creative juices flowing.

Eda Utku will guide you through a 90-minute memoir writing workshop. Bookings essential. Contact us and reserve your spot.

Social Bus Outings

ALONG

Weekly, full and half-day trips, Door-to-door transport. Visiting places of interest and beauty, around Sydney and its surrounds.

E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Cost: based on the NDIS pricing schedule. Individual support, including transport, daily living activities and community access available on request.

Join us every Tuesday for a new destination such as the The Gardeners Inn, Blackheath or The Beach Club, Collaroy.

• 9.00am - 4.00pm

gstarkey@sydneycs.org or

• $25 (Bus only)

P: 8598 7051

E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Contact us to find out more

PLAYGROUPS: 0-5 years, 9.30am-11.30am

TUESDAYS

Arts, Craft, Music and Story Playgroups

Supported by Early Ed fortnightly

THURSDAYS

Arts, Craft, Music and Story Playgroups

- $10 per casual visit

- $60 per term for one session per week

Early Ed is an early intervention service for young children with disabilities and delays in their developments. For more information please visit: www.earlyed.com.au COME ALONG AND JOIN IN

Come ENQUIRIES

Department of GROUP TIMES

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

Celebrate Lane Cove and Sydney Community Services

Monday 25 Sept 2023, 10am – 1pm

Meeting TERM COSTS $10 per casual visit $60 per term for 1 session per week $100 per term for multiple sessions

Council Meet local parents & children of a similar age

Step right up! Come one, come all and help us celebrate Lane Cove and Sydney Community Services. With a fun carnival atmosphere, enjoy a lunch of festival food and a screening of the dazzling movie, ‘The Greatest Showman.’ Bookings opening soon.

children with disabilities & delays in their

and become an Accounts Receivables Off icer

The role:

The Accounts Receivable Officer is a full-time role responsible for performing the accounts receivable function, ensuring accounts are accurate and up to date to assist with Sydney Community Services' (SCS) financial sustainability and growth.

Why work with us?

Sydney Community Services is dedicated to a strong community presence and is committed to supporting people to live full and independent lives, engaging communities, facilitating volunteering, and delivering care and support at the times when people need it most.

What is required?

This role will require the following:

• Support SCS to meet its financial goals and obligations through the timely and accurate processing and reconciliation of customer invoices and payments.

• Support the organisation to meet its financial goals through the receipt and reconciliation of funding and third-party revenue.

• Support the Finance Manager to meet the organisation’s financial reporting obligations through the accurate and timely recording of all financial information and assisting with report generation, analysis, and reconciliations.

Full job description:

www.sydneycs.org/join-the-sydney-communityservices-team/

WHERE: This role will be located at our Lane Cove office, 1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove.

WORK TYPE: This is a full-time role, Monday to Friday.

FIND OUT MORE: If you would like to find out more, then contact us. We would love to meet and discuss the role further.

P: 02 9427 6425

E: support@sydneycs.org

Koreatown open for business

There’s exciting news in Eastwood – one of City of Ryde’s most important strategic centres – with the activation of the new Koreatown precinct around Rowe Street East.

Eastwood has long been recognised as Sydney’s most important Korean cultural centre and the new signage and banners installed by Council formalising Koreatown will further encourage tourism and economic activity in the precinct.

In addition, the State Government’s recent Uptown Grant of $198,200 for Koreatown will enable the local Korean Chambers in the City of Ryde (KCCR) to promote the precinct’s fantastic array of Korean-themed restaurants and retail businesses.

I encourage everyone to visit, especially if you enjoy good food.

If you’re a fan of public art, then two new spectacular sports-themed murals recently unveiled as part of Council’s Graffiti Management Project are also well worth a look.

At ELS Hall Park in North Ryde – home of the mighty Ryde Hawks baseball club - a storage shed features an amazing mural called ‘Home Run’ designed and installed by Muralisto.

And at Morrison Bay Park, Putney, well-known local artist Sheila Tan has created an action-packed image featuring three of the popular sports played there – soccer, cricket, and touch football.

The new murals, along with Council’s other public art projects can be seen here: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/publicart

Art is also a major component of an exciting new competition taking place in the City of Ryde.

The inaugural Youth Creative Competition 2023 offers a tremendous opportunity for artists and writers aged 12-24 who live, work, or study in the Council area to have their talents recognised.

The competition is being held across three age groups12-15, 16-19, and 20-24 - with entries in both the art and writing categories to address the theme: ‘Hope for the Future’. Entries are open until 31 October 2023.

More details here: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/creativecomp

Another fantastic creative endeavour is our aways-popular Spring Garden Competition, which is now open for 2023. This annual event has been fuelling our gardeners’ skills and creativity for more than 30 years and is one of the few council-run competitions of its kind still in existence.

Entries are open until 31 August 2023 in 10 categories, showcasing gardens both big and small designed for personal relaxation, for the community, for attracting native animals, or even for eating.

More details here: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/gardencomp

CLR SARKIS YEDELIAN OAM CITY

P: 9879 9400

E: mayor@huntershill.nsw.gov.au

Delivery for the year ahead

Our Council is committed to improving the experience for residents, businesses and visitors to Hunters Hill by delivering services that support and promote our community.

Each year - with guidance from public feedback - our Council allocates funds for our Capital Works Program to deliver a range of projects within our Local Government Area.

This financial year (2023-24), our Capital Works Program is valued at more than $15 million- a substantial increase in funding for the delivery of major projects and addressing long running maintenance backlogs. Funding has been increased for road and footpath works across Hunters Hill, implementation of traffic management and traffic calming devices, providing connected and accessible infrastructure, works and maintenance on local parks, sports fields, and open spaces as well as community buildings and other Council facilities.

This also includes major new projects being delivered at Figtree Park, Boronia Park and Gladesville Reserve.

We look forward to delivering on these priorities in the financial year ahead to maintain a safe and inclusive municipality for our community.

Pawgust

Hunters Hill is well-known for its love of our four-legged friends and there are plenty of great spaces to enjoy with your dogs in tow, from the beautiful streets that are ideal for walking, to our parks and designated off-leash areas. The ‘Pawgust’ challenge is a great way for residents to get active with their pups and support charity Guide Dogs Australia.

As part of Pawgust, Guide Dogs Australia challenges people and their canines to brave the cold for walks or runs totalling at least 60 kilometres across the month to raise funds for the breeding, raising and training of support dogs. With hundreds of guide dogs being trained each year, the Pawgust fundraiser makes a huge difference in supporting people living with blindness or low vision to live independently – so if you get the chance, go for a run with your four-legged friends to participate in this challenge for a great cause.

Our local recycling centre

Keep up your sustainable habits following last month’s Plastic Free July by recycling your household and problem waste at our local Community Recycling Centre at 8 Waltham Street in Artarmon.

This Community Recycling Centre provides a free, easy and convenient way for residents to safely and sustainably dispose of tricky-to-recycle waste such as old smoke detectors, paint, gas bottles, car and household batteries and motor and cooking oil.

Be sure to use this great service available to the community and help divert waste out of landfill.

Be it childcare, aged care, healthcare, disability care or any one of several other community services, people within our community recognise we are only as strong as the experiences of our most vulnerable.

A recent round of community consultation undertaken by my team and I has revealed our community cares deeply about those that work within, and use the services of, the care sector.

As your Federal MP, it was my privilege to make a formal submission to an inquiry being undertaken by the Prime Minister into the Government’s draft national strategy for the care and support economy.

The information I provided came directly from you: gathered during one-on-one conversations and through a process of community consultation including an online survey. Ultimately the community input was invaluable. You can read the full submission on my website: kyleatink.com.au Summarising the key findings, community members in North Sydney who have had personal experience with the care and support economy, whether it be a parent in aged care, a child in childcare, or connected to a care and support worker, are generally supportive of and agree the Government’s proposed strategy is a step in the right direction.

However sadly, there was not a lot of praise for the system in its current form, with many reporting they generally saw it as being “riddled with challenges”, including high costs, low quality of care, and poor treatment of care workers.

There was collective agreement the workers in this area deserve higher wages and that services must continue to strive to become more affordable and accessible, with a more people-centred approach, and better supported workers.

The community’s input was essential in getting my head around the reform you wish to see me fight for so please keep sharing your thoughts with me.

ZAC MILES HUNTERS HILL MAYOR

LCM Hymn Singing Afternoon, 2 September

Lane Cove & Mowbray Anglican Churches (LCM) is holding an afternoon of singing and storytelling of great hymns and songs. We welcome you to join us as we sing and enjoy afternoon tea together. 19 Rosenthal Avenue, Lane Cove, 3.00pm to 4.30pm, Saturday 2 September 2023. Attendance is free, no bookings are required. Parking in The Canopy is recommended.

SOLD BY MICHAEL GALLINA AND CAMERON BROWN

• Dazzling open plan living/kitchen zone with wide tiled flooring

• Flow to a covered entertaining terrace, alfresco kitchen and level lawns

• Generous bedrooms, engineered timber floors and seamless built-in robes

• Idyllic main bedroom/walk-in robe, raked ceiling/luxe ensuite

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

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

SOLD PRIOR TO AUCTION

• Grand open plan living/dining zone offers a marble edged eco fireplace

• Bi-folds create a seamless connection to deck/alfresco kitchen

• Gour met Caesarstone kitchen, European appliances and butler's pantry

• Dedicated home office, pool views/light infused upper retreat

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

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

SOLD AT AUCTION

• Spacious open living/dining zone set below high skylit ceilings

• Large bi-fold doors provide a smooth transition to the alfresco setting

• Beautifully presented gardens/lawn framed by natural sandstone

• Gour met stone kitchen features Bosch appliances and breakfast bar

Jess Goodman 0401 888 555 E: jess.goodman@belleproperty.com

SOLD AT AUCTION

• Vast layout reveals a selection of casual and formal living spaces

• Effortless flow outdoors to paved alfresco setting/swimming pool

• French provincial style island kitchen has gas range and farmhouse sink

• City view master bedroom, walk/built-in wardrobes/chic ensuite

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

Kim Walters 0499 014 886 E: kim.walters@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

LANE COVE FESTIVAL EVENT

Sunday September 10 3.00 - 5.00pm

COFFEE AND CAKES DEVONSHIRE TEAS

OPEN 2023 THIRD WEEKEND EACH MONTH 10am-4pm AUGUST 19 & 20

www.carisbrookhouse.com

Enquiries 0418 276 365

Carisbrook wine,cheese & Jazz! featuring Book now!

https://www.trybooking.com/1073567 $40pp includes table booking, cheese platter and wine Enquiries 0418 276 365

7pm

Tuesday 22 August

Lane Cove Historical Society e Podium

Cllr Bridget Kennedy

Rubbish

It's not what you think it is

Lane Cove Library

www.lanecovehistorical society.com.au Enquiries 0418 276 365

34a Kara Street, Lane Cove 3 bed 1 bath 2 car

48 The Strand, Gladesville 4 bed 4 bath 2 car

5 Private Road, Northwood 5 bed 4 bath 4 car

44 Western Crescent, Gladesville 5 bed 3 bath 2 car

B I N E T H O M E S

A R C H I T E C T S + B U I L D E R S

B I N E T H O M E S

E N E R G Y E F F I C I E N T H O M E S

i a l i s t i n d e s i g n i n g & b u i l d i n g s t u n n i n g c u s t o m h o m e s .