TVO_December 2024

The Honourable Anthony Roberts MP Member for Lane Cove

If you require assistance please contact my office Tel: 02 9817 4757 Email: lanecove@parliament.nsw.gov.au

Summer is now upon us, and school is almost finished.

As a father of young children, I feel obliged to point out the importance of being both sun safe and water safe as we enjoy our Christmas holiday fun in our pools, our backyards, our parks and our local rivers.

The Christmas Season is a time for family to come together and be present and give presents.

We also must remember those who don’t have family or friends and will spend this holiday season by themselves. I would encourage everyone to reach out this Christmas to those we know who may not be blessed with family to make sure our community remains a warm and inclusive one.

There are many charities and church parishes that organise Christmas hampers for the marginalised and vulnerable. If you have the resources to do so, I would encourage you and your families to please talk to our many local charities and find out how and where you can make someone’s Christmas more enjoyable.

Last month in Lane Cove we celebrated Diwali, the festival of light, that encourages us all to shine through our love for one another.

The tradition of Diwali encourages us to wish health and happiness to anyone that we meet or simply pass by, and as such it was a fitting local multicultural start to our Christmas Season.

I wish you all a very happy Christmas filled with joy and peace.

Let us count our blessings and give thanks.

Spoil the ones you love, call the ones you miss and thank the ones that care.

God Bless.

Anthony

Authorised by the Hon Anthony Roberts MP, Member for Lane Cove. 215 Victoria Rd Gladesville 2111. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

Powering Our Community

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

Local Support for Local People

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

THE VILLAGE OBSERVER:

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

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

EDITOR'S LETTER

We avoided the urge to make our December issue completely Christmas-focused and instead turned our minds to the upcoming break and the opportunity it brings to wind down.

It’s been a busy year here on the Lower North Shore with Council elections, boundary changes, a new train line, several new housing developments popping up, and so on it goes.

The community also lost some of its well-known characters who made these suburbs a better place: Rotary members Richard ‘Dick’ Dawes and John Donald, and local activist, historian and writer Sue Ingham who was also a regular and much-cherished contributor to TVO.

In these pages we look beyond Dec 24/25/26 and bring you some fresh staycation/vacation ideas to refresh and ready you for 2025. We think we all deserve it.

Our minds also turned this month, however, to those less fortunate and TVO’s mothership, Sydney Community Services is working tirelessly to ensure that Christmas is a positive time for the disadvantaged and seniors who require assistance in our community. You can find out how you can help on pages 33 to 35.

Although keeping a print publication alive has been more than challenging this year, we have expanded our footprint and with that, we are being contacted by more readers than ever before with a myriad new stories. We have been honoured to published them.

Please keep your stories coming and thank you to our advertisers for making it possible for us to bring our community together.

We’ll be taking our usual extended break in January, so have a wonderful break and see you in February 2025.

Nicola NICOLA RICHES EDITOR editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

North Sydney Bears strikes partnership with Mary's House Services

Mary's House Services will be the official community partner for the North Sydney Bears in 2025.

Mary's House Services supports women and children escaping domestic violence, raises awareness and contributes to positive change in our local community.

It provides crisis accommodation, case management, and counselling for women and their children experiencing domestic abuse.

As part of the collaboration, the Bears will undertake various initiatives throughout the season to help spread awareness, fundraise, and promote the important work of Mary's House Services. This will include special events, fundraising campaigns at home games, and community engagement activities that aim to make a real difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence.

Artarmon Railway Station petition

A petition has been launched to improve accessibility at Artarmon Railway Station.

The station is equipped with only one lift that is said to frequently malfunction and serves just one side of the train line.

Residents say it limits access for families, elderly residents and individuals with mobility challenges, creating an unnecessary burden for these groups.

The petition calls for engagement with the community to assess and address their accessibility requirements; partnership with local Councils to incorporate community insights into the project’s design and planning and committing to the infrastructure improvement.

www.timjamesmp.com.au/artarmon_lift_petition

Tenants set to move into new social homes in Lane Cove North

Housing Australia has cut the ribbon on a new development with social and specialist disability accommodation units in Lane Cove North.

Tenants will soon be welcomed to nine social dwellings, six specialist disability accommodation units and one onsite support accommodation, following the finalisation of the occupation certificate and strata registration process by the community housing provider BlueCHP.

Pinaroo Apartments, as it has been named, will offer new one- and two-bedroom homes, suitable for a range of low-income households.

Housing Australia provided a $21.9 million Affordable Housing Bond Aggregator (AHBA) loan along with support from Homes NSW and For Purpose Investment Partners to commence construction, which began in 2022.

Local over 60s soccer club wins at Pan Pac Masters Games

Alive & Kicking, the over 60s soccer club based on the Lower North Shore, returned from its second ever Pan Pacific Masters Games with its two teams collecting gold and silver medals.

With players from all over Greater Sydney, it entered an Over 60s and Over 65s team for the tournament, which took place at Narang FC in Surfers Paradise.

The O/60s team – one of 12 in its division – won the Gold medal after a nail-biting penalty shootout (having drawn 1-1 with local favourite the Gold Coast Legends in regular time). The O/65s team took out the silver medal after a close 1-0 loss to US team Sacramento FC.

Alive & Kicking has 125 members – playing twice weekly throughout the year at Northbridge Oval and regularly entering local, regional, national and international tournaments.

Next year the club plans to send three teams to the Australian Masters in the ACT with an over-70s team expected to make the trip… and perhaps also bring home a medal!

Chatswood Chase brings elevated fresh food and dining to the Lower North Shore

A new culinary destination has launched at Chatswood Chase, bringing the best of local and global flavours to the Lower North Shore featuring more than 40 fresh food, dining, and daily essentials retailers.

Signature fresh food experiences now on offer at Chatswood Chase include Vic’s, Astakos Fish Market, Quattro Deli, Yangga Korean Deli, Tong Li Supermarket and Scoop Wholefoods.

Contemporary dining institutions now open include Al Aseel, Abb Air, Dopa Donburi & Dessert, La Viet, and Taka Sushi. Complemented by several of the most on-trend food flavours including Nomu Korean Fried Chicken, Tamon Sushi, Cali Press, Sandoitchi, Dragon Pastry and Happy Lemon.

Stylish up-market cafe-restaurant The Mayflower is also due to open in early 2025.

Ryde Spring Garden competition winners

The City of Ryde’s 2024 Spring Garden Competition winners were announced during a glittering ceremony at Macquarie Park’s Eden Gardens last month.

This year’s celebrated gardeners and categories are:

• Front Garden: Scott Leishman

• Back Garden: Nilgun Tarpis

• Courtyard and Balcony: Sarah Hyland

• Native Garden: Sarvnaz Karimi

• Habitat-friendly Garden: The Habitat

• Commercial Garden: Leisure Lea Garden

• Preschool Garden: North Ryde Community Preschool

• School Garden: West Ryde Public School

• Succulent Garden: Amy Lo

• Community Garden: The Habitat

• Bushcare Regeneration: Friends of Lane Cove

The competition was open from 1 July to 31 August 2024 and attracted an impressive 82 entries, which were expertly judged by Judith Sleijpen and Jenny Ring from the professional Garden Judges association over an intensive four-day period.

Hunters Hill Art Exhibition winners announced

Hunters Hill Art Exhibition, well known for its prestigious showcase of high-quality artworks, attracted over 520 entries from artists all across Australia this year.

Self-taught artist, Richa Panicker, was awarded the Hunters Hill Art Prize for her artwork “Divine Within."

“The artwork is an ode to my mother who is no longer with me. She was a woman of strength like the one in this painting. It is also an ode to my Indian heritage,” she said.

Richa was delighted to hear she won. “This is such a surreal moment, it feels like a dream,” she said. “It is such an honour to receive such a prestigious award. It gives me confidence to see the work being validated. As a self-taught artist, you’re always second guessing yourself. Receiving this award means a lot to me.”

Other award winners included:

• McGrath Hunters Hill Regional Art Prize - Monica Dong Chang for "Tangerine Still Life"

• Hunters Hill Hotel Sculpture Prize - Simon Treseder for "Iron Maiden"

• Nora Heysen Award - Melissa Guest for "The Charlotte and Luna Park"

• Maison Dental Small Works Prize - Susan Cole for "Cross Country"

• Watercolour Prize - Kurt Koeppl for "After The Fires" Highly commended artworks were also acknowledged during the event, including:

• Hunters Hill Art Prize - John Perkins for “Harbour Lights”

• Regional Art Prize - Jo Rijke for "Gumleaf Study"

• Sculpture Prize - Charles Attard for "Lunar Gaze"

• Nora Heysen Award - Jennifer Buffier for "The Escape"

• Small Works Prize - Gemma Pride for "Orange Interior"

• Watercolour Prize - Violetta Kurbanova for "Roman Forum"

User Unfriendly

by Liz Foster

Regular readers will be familiar with my frustrations to pay for parking in the UK amidst the array of different apps used by each county council in this new age of not accepting legal currency as payment.

The grey area seems to arise in the crossover between doing things in person and doing things via a link or app. (Plus the added risk of being scammed, a whole other can of worms).

This issue is not confined to parking of course, because there’s an app or a link for everything. My phone continually pumps out alarmist messages with a passive aggressive tone: SID’S ARTHRITIS INJECTION IS OVERDUE, or YOUR POOL NEEDS URGENT BUFFER. And don’t get me started on the super fun to be had trying to find out about Telstra power outages when the Wifi’s down, which can only be done via the Telstra app, which needs updating first but can’t be done without Wi-Fi.

I arrived for a long-ago made health appointment recently to find the practice had no record of it. This is how the conversation went.

Me: I made this appointment four months ago in person and put it straight in my calendar.

Receptionist: We’ve just changed to a new booking system, so it probably got lost. Did you get a text confirmation?

Me: (thinking) I don’t remember. No, I don’t think so.

Receptionist: Well then.

Me: ???

Receptionist (patiently, as though to a small child): If you didn’t receive a confirmation then there’s no appointment. You should have called to confirm.

Me: So, the fact that you didn’t send me a reminder is on me because I should have checked back with you, even though you lost the appointment at your end?

Receptionist: Yes.

My gym has recently upgraded the changing room lockers from old fashioned raised keypads to a new fancy appbased system. Lockers are centrally controlled via a large touch screen in the changing rooms, or you can allocate your own locker direct from your phone app. What could possibly go wrong?

The new system promises to be user friendly, reliable and automated, providing flexibility and convenience. You assign your PIN and either allocate a random available locker or choose your own vacant one from the list. Brilliant. No more trying all the doors to see if they work or not. The only trouble is the same as most instances of technological frustration. That pesky issue of human behaviour.

Intuitively, people physically select an empty locker, throw their things in, close it, and then go to assign the locker number. Wrong. There’s no way of retrospectively assigning the number once the door’s safely locked, which is done by simply pushing it shut.

Some people throw their non-valuable gear in a locker but aren’t bothered about the palaver of assigning a PIN and locking it. The new ‘smart’ lockers think the locker’s still empty, so the number gets allocated to someone else, who then discovers this gear. Or for some reason the door’s been pushed shut, maybe by accident. So, you can’t retrieve your stuff because you didn’t set a PIN. You can allocate a number from your phone app but then you have to cart your phone around the gym with you.

Even once you’ve got the hang of it, the lockers seem to have a mind of their own. I came back after my workout to discover my perfectly correctly assigned and closed locker was open. Since my laptop was inside this was far from ideal. The user friendly and convenience promised claims are yet to be delivered on. Still, hats off to the lovely helpful staff who have their hands full fielding clusters of unhappy patrons.

The world is used to the rapid rate of change, but humans push back when we’re told to just accept that the new way is better. Often it is. My poor dog would probably be hobbling stiff legged, and my pool would be green if the handy alerts didn’t spring up on my phone. I’m sure we’ll be beaten into submission in no time, and if not, just wait for a few years and AI will do it all.

In the meantime, I’ll take my laptop everywhere with me and set reminders to call ahead of appointments in case they’ve got lost.

Easy.

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

You can reach her by scanning the QR code to join her Readers Club, or emailing liz@lizfoster.com.au

ILLUSTRATION BY GRACE KOPSIAFTIS

ASPECTS

Where: Coal Loader Tunnel, Balls Head Reserve, Waverton

When: November 2024

LIMITED AND OPEN EDITION ART PRINTS

This year’s Greenwich Village Arts Trail was a fantastic chance to catch up with familiar faces — those who come back each year to see what’s new and have a chat. I truly appreciate the support and enthusiasm from both new and returning visitors.

For those looking to add my work to their collection, I’m pleased to offer a range of open edition canvas prints, an affordable alternative to my limited editions.

Prices start at $330 for a 33cm x 33cm open edition canvas in a floating frame, while limited edition large prints on cotton rag, presented behind UV-resistant art glass, are available up to $4,200.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO STOPPED BY ON THE TRAIL I LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR!

Each canvas can be framed in your choice of white, black, Tasmanian Oak, or walnut timber and comes with delivery included.

STU MURPHY - AUSTRALIAN ARTIST

I'm Stu Murphy, an artist who’s comfortably nestled at the intersection of environmental science and visual arts. With roots in environmental science, my heart beats for rivers, wetlands, and their complex ecosystems. For over a decade, I've been delving into various artistic mediums, including linocut stencils, spray paint, and acrylic painting, in a quest to blend art with environmental consciousness.

My work is deeply influenced by environmental themes and this shines through particularly in my photography. I explore the NSW north coast’s wetlands and estuaries, and more recently, the stunning desert landscapes of Australia's interior. It's a thrilling adventure, capturing the earth's natural art through lines, textures, and colors from a bird’s-eye view.

Get in touch about anything that tickles your fancy even if it's not on my website and I'll provide a quote. I can easily prepare digital mockups of my work on your walls at different sizes too.

"Camden Haven" captures a Christmas king tide pushing clean salty water in through the narrow channel that connects the Camden Haven River to the ocean.

The strong current tearing the sand from the bottom.

"I feel it's best presented in a white floating frame at 33cm x 33cm for $330 or $550 at 50cm x 50cm". STU.

CAMDEN HAVEN

A letter to Egypt

Dear Noha, Ibrahim, Noby, Mohammed, Hesham, Mohammed, Tarek, Mohammed and all my new Egyptian friends!

I’m now back in Australia after what was a truly fabulous time in Egypt, perfectly timed for one just a little jaded after almost three months on the road. Together, you replenished my travel cup with your extraordinary kindness, your genuine hospitality and all manner of wonderful experiences.

Welcome to Egypt you said! I was indeed welcomed to Cairo but what a shock to the system. Chaotic, noisy, and often dirty where lane markings are but an ambit claim for order on the roads. And where unfinished but lived in buildings spawn rooftops that serve as defacto dumps for surplus goods and materials, it was with some relief we arrived at the perfect Four Seasons on the Nile. Truly an oasis of calm, I loved my Nile view room with its sunset facing balcony, the perfect eyrie for watching and listening to all the river activity. When I could finally be drawn away, your six restaurants spoilt me with multiple cuisine options, the delicious Middle Eastern/Egyptian Zitouni being my favourite.

Leaving the Four Seasons sanctuary was difficult, however primed by my Cairo experience I was keen for part two of my Egyptian adventure – a Nile cruise. Uniworld’s SS Tosca, with its 40M rooms, spacious rooftop lounge and cooling plunge pool, and excellent meals and service, did not disappoint and Ibrahim, you were a lovely host. It was a cruise up there with the best.

I quickly discovered that a Nile cruise has several differences when compared with a European river cruise, most notably that the day starts early if only to beat the heat and/or crowds when touring ancient temples, museums and monuments. Due to a fear of a spillover of the war Egypt is currently not so busy and in Oct/Nov the temperatures are more tolerable. However normal patterns were maintained and this meant that often we had all afternoon to enjoy the sun deck. We motored along languidly absorbing it all –farmers and fishermen, bullocks and donkeys, excited kids calling hello, boatside merchants haranguing us

to buy tablecloths and gulabeyas, mosques calling believers to prayer, and more.

The temple visits were exhaustive. Gods and kings and queens. The Romans, The Greeks, the Christians. Karnak, The Temple of the Kings, Dendera, and Abu Simbel. Tutankhamen, Isis, Osiris, Cleopatra …. Somehow, with your help Tarek, our learning was intensive, yet but a little of the magnificent ancient history of Egypt.

A welcome respite followed at the Winter Palace Luxor. An historic property, famous for its luxury hotel and expansive gardens, this was our oasis. The hotel, once host to famous guests such as Sir Winston Churchill, Agatha Christie, the Egyptian Royal Family and European royalty now accommodated us in royal style as we relaxed, shopped and bargained and tested the local beauty salon (a story in itself). It was indeed a beautiful home for our two nights. Oh that I could have stayed longer. Thank you to you and your team Mohammed.

Of all my travelling in 2024, Egypt has indeed been the highlight. Prior

to my visit I had little real feel for how hospitable and welcoming it would be, and how sincere and gracious would be the care provided by our Egyptian hosts.

Is it safe? Absolutely. Should you go there now? Absolutely, and sooner rather than later while crowds are still down. The GEM (Grand Egyptian Museum) is now open, and new history is uncovered daily. Egypt may alternately fascinate and frustrate yet I can promise it will never disappoint you. My Egyptian friends above will see to that!

The Trendsetter Team can offer a wealth of professional travel advice and support when you travel. Email for an appointment if we can help you.

info@trendsettertravel.com.au

Language is no barrier for this North Shore Local

Maggie Lawrence talks with Riverview local Ted Rule about his extraordinary gift for learning new languages, and his high-level work for the Australian government in China and Hong Kong.

I first discovered Ted Rule’s incredible talent for learning languages over a cup of coffee at the York’s Corner deli in Riverview. It was humbling to put it mildly.

‘I grew up in Essendon in Melbourne and in the 1950s and 60s, I was surrounded by people who spoke every language on earth,’ Ted told me.

Ted was educated at St Patricks, a Jesuit school in East Melbourne. He then furthered his studies at the University of Melbourne, the ANU in Canberra, the Taipei Language Institute and the Melbourne University Business School. But his interest in learning languages began at a very early age.

‘In primary school the kids spoke English, Italian, Maltese and Hungarian. I was lucky to have had one of the best language teachers in Victoria teaching French and Latin.

‘In my final year I wanted to learn Italian. On a beach holiday I pounded my way through “Teach Yourself Italian” and I went to a two-hour evening class once a week and got honours in the end of year exam,’ Ted added.

‘I started a degree in Italian at Melbourne university and then one evening at a beach party with my cousin from Queensland, he told me that he was going to do Japanese the following year and I decided to add Chinese to the mix.’

As one does, I thought, remembering how proud I was of myself when visiting Paris, I managed to ask directions in French for the Metro after five years of French in high school!

‘My mother spoke French and German and there were always French and German books in our house that intrigued me,’ Ted continued.

As I got chatting with Ted, I learned that he could either speak, read - or at some point manage to get by - in an astonishing 18 different languages.

‘In order of proficiency I speak read and write, French, Italian, Mandarin, Latin and Cantonese. I discovered that I could also speak, and read with ease both Spanish and Portuguese. I studied medieval Provencal and I can get around in Thai,’ Ted said.

My mouth was almost hitting the pavement as Ted told me he had done a three-week course in Swedish, then

read two Swedish novels and watched Swedish TV with reasonable ease, without ever having had a chance to speak it. Similarly, with Romanian he told me.

‘My Tagalog is rusty and my German and Yiddish are poor,’ he added.

‘Really? Well not to master your Tagalog, German and Yiddish is just irresponsible,’ I joked.

‘ I spoke good Malay after a six-week holiday in Malaysia but it’s gone as has my Taiwanese and my New Guinea Pidgin. I can sort of get around in Japanese if things don’t get too detailed.’

At this point if you will pardon the pun, I was lost for words. I gazed at this language genius sitting opposite me with his recently purchased Swedish novel, bookmarked at half-way through, and tried to get my head around how anyone could read a novel in a new language after only studying it for around three weeks. I was in awe.

GOVERNMENT POSTS IN CHINA AND HONG KONG

Ted joined the public service straight after leaving university and chose the Department of Trade in Canberra.

‘I was one of the first Chinese speakers they had recruited and they immediately sent me to the Australian Embassy in Taipei as a trade commissioner.

‘I had a couple more postings as a trade commissioner and two of them finished abruptly. The first was in Taipei which ended in December 1972 when Whitlam removed recognition from the KMT government in Taiwan and told us to leave immediately,’ he said.

‘I went straight to Hong Kong where I did the administrative work for the great Australian exhibition in Beijing in 1973. That involved working up close and personal with Deputy Prime Minister, Jim Cairns.’

‘I got a scholarship to do my master’s degree in Chinese at ANU and after that was posted to the Australian

Embassy in Beijing. Towards the end of the Cultural Revolution where the ultra-left was in control of the Chinese government, it wasn't an easy time,’ Ted added.

Ted’s daughter, Louise was born there at that time. Her birth certificate is stamped “Anti Imperialist Hospital”.

‘I saw some amazing things. I shook hands with Deng Xiaoping in the Great Hall of the People. I went to an Australia/China women's volleyball match where the man next to me was Zhuang Zedong, the Minister for Sport, the man who initiated ping pong diplomacy in 1971.

‘I witnessed the 1976 Tiananmen events where a million people rioted in the middle of Beijing against the ultraleftists. I watched them being cleared from the square by baton wielding troops. We left abruptly because of the 1976 great Tangshan earthquake which killed 250,000 people around Beijing. Was I Scared? Never more so.

‘Later I became the go-to man for China trade policy in Canberra and worked closely with the Deputy Prime Minister, Doug Anthony, including accompanying him and the CEOs of all of the leading companies in Australia on the first big trade mission to China in 1978.’

In 1980 Ted left the public service and moved from Canberra to Riverview where he set up the first Australian company in China with a colleague.

‘We had an office in Beijing with a good range of clients, but by the end of the year it was still costing us money. My friend who was 10 years older than me had enough capital to continue and became a very wealthy man from selling wool. I didn’t, so I set to other matters around Sydney in the consumer products industry.

‘I did a lot of work in commodities: mainly sugar where I managed to liberalise what had been heavily controlled. The work was largely in New Guinea. They wanted me to run the business there but I didn’t see my future going that way.

‘In Vienna I helped reorganise the Coca Cola franchise and set the scene for my company to become the biggest Coca Cola bottler in Eastern Europe.’

In 1987, Ted moved to Hong Kong and went into merchant banking with the Standard Chartered Bank.

‘I didn't know much about merchant banking but I knew a fair bit about China and I became the first non-Chinese to

work in the Chinese finance industry. I sat in on planning meetings at the very highest levels of the Chinese government. One of the people with whom I worked extremely closely later became Vice President of China,’ Ted added.

In 1994 working with a couple of other Australians, Ted raised a billion US Dollars to establish an investment fund for infrastructure in Asia. Eventually he became managing director of the fund.

FROM RIVERVIEW TO SHENZHEN

‘In 1999. while gardening in Riverview, I fell off the roof and smashed both my knees. I will give you a full explanation of how you can fall off the roof in a gardening accident on receipt of a self-addressed stamped envelope,’ Ted said with a chuckle.

‘I didn't want to go on with full-time work and I stayed in Riverview for five years, helping my wife Karen to look after her elderly mother. When her mother died, I thought to hell with this, I’m bored, I think I’ll go back to China.’

Ted and his wife went to Shenzhen, a city of 20 million people that is not very well known. It’s on the Hong Kong-China border. They bought a flat on the 21st floor overlooking a tropical garden.

‘It had a 70-metre swimming pool with views across the bay to Hong Kong. We lived there for 10 years and wrote a travel guide to Shenzhen which was later published. I had fun trying to figure out the history of a city that was only 30 years old but did have an enormous amount of history, including an imperial tomb that very few people knew about.

‘The research and writing that my wife and I did on Shenzhen came to the attention of the Vice Mayor who was a university friend of the CEO of the small merchant bank that I was chairman of. It was the 30th anniversary of the Shenzhen special economic zone and the Vice Mayor decreed that, since we had been around the city for longer than almost anybody else, we should be a part of a documentary being made about this special zone. After that, we were followed around by film crews in two further documentaries where we were filmed uncovering ancient clan temples.

‘We sold our flat in a set of circumstances which would merit its own documentary, and I returned to Australia in 2016,’ Ted concluded.

Local summer adventures – both near and not too far

See Sydney from a new perspective

There’s always something new to discover in the Harbour City, even if you’re a frequent visitor. In Barangaroo, take a dip at Marrinawi Cove then refuel at one of the 11 restaurants and bars inside Crown Sydney. Head to level 26 for the three-hatted Oncore by Clare Smyth, where the new tasting menu pairs bite-sized portions of her signature dishes with epic views of the city. In Surry Hills, sip a glass of NSW wine while surrounded by inspirational artworks at The Art Syndicate, a new small bar-gallery hybrid. Or get a new perspective on an old favourite with an immersive tour of the Sydney Opera House – choose from the Beyond the Stage Tour, the Architectural Tour or the Guided Digital Tour.

Be inspired in Newcastle

Discover the artistic side of Newcastle, a two-hour drive north of Sydney. The city is a living gallery, with spectacular street art everywhere you turn. Follow the Newcastle Architecture Walk to admire the city in all its glory and see the contemporary exhibitions at jailturned-gallery The Lock-Up. Uncover the secrets of the city with Newy Tour Co, where a local guide will show you the highlights as well as their favourite places to eat, drink and be entertained. Then watch the sun set from Rooftop at QT, the city’s highest open-air bar with 180-degree views over the Newcastle skyline. Time your visit with the Olive Tree Market, which transforms Civic Park with over 130 artists, designers and makers showcasing their unique wares, or enjoy two days of huge performances on the waterfront at Portside Festival on 21 or 22 December.

Seek out what’s new in the Southern Highlands

Luxury lovers have two new places to stay in the Southern Highlands. Moss Manor has transformed an elegant Georgian manor into an eightroom art hotel. Or check in to the grand Osborn House to relax by the swimming pool (spritz in hand) during those sultry summer afternoons. If you can tear yourself away from the indulgent accommodations, taste boutique spirits at SoHi or sip crafted cocktails at Flour Bar. For something more rugged, Valley Outdoors runs guided canoeing, hiking, abseiling and camping tours through the spectacular Kangaroo Valley. Or learn about the fascinating history of the village of Berrima on a guided walking tour.

Staycation fun!

Cool off in the country

Discover a galaxy far, far away under the night-time country sky in the Warrumbungle region, a five-hour drive northwest from Sydney. Camp in the Warrumbungle National Park and gaze in awe at the stars in Australia’s first Dark Sky Park. Learn more about astronomy at Siding Spring Observatory, which has the largest optical telescope in the country or join Donna the Astronomer for a guided tour through the night sky at Milroy Observatory. Afterwards, pick up supplies and explore the charming town of Coonabarabran before heading to Coolah Tops National Park, a two-hour drive to the southeast, for excellent bushwalking, mountain biking trails and hidden waterfall spots.

The trees and vines of Country NSW are bursting with fruit during the summer months. Pick your own cherries in the friendly towns of Young, Orange, Mudgee and Batlow or visit the Huntley Berry Farm to fill your buckets with fresh, sweet berries.

Dive deeper into the far South Coast

Scratch beneath the surface of Eurobodalla and the Sapphire Coast, six hours’ drive south of Sydney, with an outdoor experience that will teach you about the region’s cultural history. Immerse yourself in the sacred Dreaming stories of Yuin Country on a retreat with Aboriginalowned tour company Ngaran Ngaran Cultural Awareness. Or follow the Bundian Way Story Trail from Cocora Beach to Quarantine Bay, where interpretive signs will introduce you to ancient legends. Summer brings with it incredible oysters along this part of the coast. Follow the Sapphire Coast Oyster Trail to meet passionate growers, learn how to shuck and taste morsels plucked straight from the water. Discover more watery wonders with Navigate Expeditions, an ecocertified tour operator leading kayak tours across the jewel-like ocean and river. Or get back to nature in luxury in a glamping tent upriver at Currajong Retreat in Burragate.

Brunching is a way of life in Sydney. Now the holidays are upon us, and we have some relaxation time at hand, we thought about trying to knock a few of these eateries off the list, and maybe even plan a whole trip around some. Send us a photo if you make it one: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au

Happyfield, Haberfield

This North American-style diner makes breakfast a treat with ‘proper’ pancake stacks and indulgent brekkie burgers (the cheesy sausage and egg McLovin Muffin is perfect morningafter fix). Coffee using Five Senses’s specialty beans round out the delicious wake-up experience.

Must order: Short stack of pancakes with maple syrup and Pepe Saya butter

Picco Leo, Sydney CBD

The sidekick to Italian fine-diner Restaurant Leo, this casual café on Angel Place serves Roman pastries and next-level baked goods such as anchovy and sage scrolls and blackgold truffle croissants.

Must order: Star anise and cinnamon scrolls

Soulmate, Newtown

With a playful menu and perfectly brewed Single O coffees, Soulmate brings brunch with a twist to Newtown’s suburban streets. Hash browns are added to bacon and egg rolls and blood sausage sandwiches are a popular special.

Must order: Soulmate BAE roll, with bacon, egg, sambal, nanna’s cheese, herb mayo on a potato bun

Rollers Bakehouse, Manly

The croissants are next level at this beachside bakery, from truffle ham and cheese in charcoal pastry to twice-baked pineapple lime cheesecake. Flavours change daily so there is always something new to try.

Must order: Southern-style brisket pie, a croissant-pie hybrid

The Eight, Haymarket

Some call this Sydney’s best yum cha experience, and the proof is on board its roaming trolleys. A variety of Cantonese dim sum rolls past diners: perfectly folded dumplings, plump prawns wrapped in rice noodles and fluffy barbecue pork buns.

Must order: Mango pancakes, topped with condensed milk and coconut jelly

Circa Espresso, Parramatta

One of Western Sydney’s most popular cafés, Circa take pride in their creative menu and specialty coffee. In fact, Circa roast their own raw beans in small batches in house.

Must order: Butter brioche French toast, with passionfruit curd, strawberries, glazed meringue, and rose, coconut and macadamia crumble

Kaffeine & Co, Yagoona

This halal-friendly eatery in Western Sydney draws brunchers in from all over the city with their decadent breakfast options and Insta-worthy mocktails. Avocado toast is topped with tomatoes, golden beetroot, feta, pomegranate and zaatar, while fried Nutella balls are soaked in rose syrup.

Must order: Ricotta pancakes, with berries, banana ice-cream and Belgian chocolate

The Boatshed, La Perouse

Famous for serving fresh seafood for lunch and dinner, this bayside eatery also offers a popular breakfast menu complete with sea breeze and sunshine. Crowd pleasers include ricotta hotcakes doused in maple syrup and gourmet eggs benedict, with your choice of bacon or smoked salmon.

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Must order: Seafood omelette with prawns, blue swimmer crab, feta and cherry tomatoes

The Picnic, Burwood

As its name suggests this café makes for the ultimate picnic brunch, located right in Burwood Park. Order a takeaway spread from the Middle Eastern-inspired breakfast menu and enjoy your feast underneath a shady tree.

Must order: Lebs benedict, poached eggs with sujuk sausage, spiced hollandaise and brioche

Bare Witness, Rhodes

Breakfast comes with views of the Parramatta River at this bright and breezy café that serves a modern mix of nutritious bowls and comforting meals (think mac and cheese eggs benedict). Their picnic pack is perfect for summer: a basket full of charcuterie, cheese, pastries, fruit and wine.

Must order: Green bowl, with halloumi, mushrooms, kale, avocado, quinoa and a poached egg

Mayoral Update December 2024

As time races forwards to Christmas, things are heating up in Lane Cove. Staff at Council have been working tirelessly to provide a huge suite of events and family friendly programming to surprise and delight the community this summer! Whether it’s bushland explorations, public art, author talks, carols and music, or snapping a photo with Santa, there is something for everyone. I’ll be lighting the Christmas tree on 6 December at the Plaza at 8pm, and look forward to launching the Lane Cove Plaza Christmas season. Read on for more information on that event. I hope to see you out and about this festive season, and please come and say hello.

Help inform Council’s decision making

Locals often ask me how I got involved in Council life. The answer is: I just started participating! Once I learned about the way things worked, I realised that my voice and my experience as a community member really holds value. I encourage everyone I meet to get more involved, and right now we are recruiting for new participants on a number of Council’s Advisory Committees. These committees help to ensure our community is informed and involved in two-way communication with Council, and that the community’s voice is included in Council’s decision-making process.

Please visit at lanecove.nsw.gov.au/council/committees to learn more and nominate yourself by 16 December 2024.

Lane Cove Council joins Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

On Tuesday December 3, Lane Cove Council will launch the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program with a morning tea at Lane Love Library at 10am. This program gives those living with a hidden disability access to a Sunflower lanyard which indicates to those around the wearer that they are a person with a hidden disability and may require support, understanding or a little more time.

The Sunflower lanyards will be available upon request at Lane Cove Civic Centre, Lane Cove Library and St Leonards library.

Lane Cove Council presents Australia Day

Friday 26 January, from 8:00am at The Canopy and Lane Cove Plaza

Kick-start your Australia Day at The Canopy as we welcome Lane Cove's newest Citizens in this special Citizenship ceremony from 8:00am.

Hear from special guest speakers and celebrate how we're all part of the story. Head to the Lane Cove Plaza to soak up the sounds of talented Australia musicians from 10:00am.

Greenwich Library 60th Birthday Party

A beautiful celebration was held at the Marjorie Propsting Memorial Library at Greenwich, to celebrate 60 years of providing literature and learning to the local community. We awarded some local children with art awards for their brilliant pieces, and boy, was the cake delicious!

For all the details visit lanecove.nsw.gov.au/events

Assisted by the Australian Government through the National Australia Day Council.

Greenwhich local Beth, who attended the opening of the Greenwich Library in 1964!

What’s on Lane Cove December 2024

Deck the halls!

We’re excited to launch our Christmas program for 2024, with a huge number of events and programs happening all around Lane Cove LGA. Whether it’s carols, a visit from Santa, or kids activities you’re after, there is something for everyone this December.

Our theme this year is the 12 Beetles of Christmas: a celebration of the beautiful Christmas beetle. Check out our public art program below.

We’re hosting a number of beetle related events, including educational programs for kids to learn about bugs and participate in a Beetle Count run by Invertebrates Australia.

For the full program, head to lanecove.nsw.gov.au/Christmas or pick up a Christmas program at the any Council venue.

The 12 Beetles of Christmas

Get ready for beetle mania in Lane Cove! Twelve dazzling sculptures will be hitting the streets, bringing festive spirit and spreading the word on the decline of our beloved Christmas beetles. These stunning creations by talented artists and community groups are out and about, adding sparkle to the season while highlighting the urgent need to protect these iconic beetles. Keep an eye out, beetle beauty awaits!

CAN YOU “CATCH” A CHRISTMAS BEETLE IN LANE COVE?

Snap a photo of your favourite beetle sculpture or, if you're lucky, a real Christmas beetle! Share it to Instagram and tag @lanecovecouncil. Not only will you be spreading awareness for these unique and dwindling insects, but you’ll also be in the running to win a $300 Lane Cove Gift Card.

DON’T MISS OUT - YOUR NEXT SNAPSHOT COULD BE A WINNER!

Full terms: lanecove.nsw.gov.au/Christmas

Council's Christmas shutdown:

 Council Civic Centre and Depot: Closed from 1pm, Tuesday 24 December 2024, reopening Monday 6 January 2025. Council can still be contacted on 9911 3555 to assist with emergencies.

 Lane Cove Library: Closed on public holidays, with reduced hours over the holiday period.

 St Leonards Library: Closed from 1pm, Friday 20 December 2024, reopening Thursday 2 January 2025 with reduced hours that week.

 Marjorie Propsting Memorial Library (Greenwich): Closed from Monday 23 December 2024 to Monday 6 January 2025.

 Library items: No due dates between Christmas and Monday 6 January 2025.

 Council website: Some parts of Council’s website will also be unavailable from 24 December – 6 January.

Merry Mulch-Mas!

Bring your Christmas tree down to Blackman Park, Lloyd Reese Drive Lane Cove West, from Boxing Day 26 December and we'll mulch it for free! Follow the signs to find the designated spot.

Christmas Lane Cove

JOIN US FOR FRIDAY 6 DECEMBER

3:30PM TO 8:00PM

BLUEY LIVE CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE AT THE CANOPY

SHOWS AT: 4:00PM, 5:00PM & 6:00PM A FREE EVENT

AT THE PLAZA

FACEPAINTING LIGHTING OF THE TREE AND LOTS MORE ! A FREE EVENT

What's on these school holidays December 2024

BUSH KIDS

Register for Bush Kids activities at: www.lanecove. nsw.gov.au/bushkids

Some highlights from the program include:

Cicada Days - 4 – 12 years

Thursday 9 & Friday 17 January 9:45am – 11:15am

Tambourine Bay Park, Tambourine Bay Rd, Riverview

Double Drummer, Green Grocer and Black Prince are some of the names of cicada species, and summer in Sydney wouldn’t be the same without them. Join us to look and listen for cicadas and look for their shells on a bush walk. We’ll also make one of our own in nature craft.

Land of Lizards - 3 to 12 years

Thursday 16 January 9:45am – 11:30am

Tambourine Bay Park, Tambourine Bay Rd, Riverview With over 600 species, Australia is a land of lizards. From goannas to legless lizards, the warm weather brings them out and we’re going to do some bush exploring to look for them and decorate a craft lizard of our own to take home.

This is Australia! - 3 to 12 years

Tuesday 21 & Thursday 23 January 9:45am – 11:15am Blackman Park (far end of Lloyd Rees Dr - past the playground), Lane Cove West Celebrate Australia Day by learning about native animals and plants. We’ll read a story and go on a bushwalk along Lane Cove River to discover the sights and sounds of summer! We’ll finish off with some nature craft.

LIBRARIES

There are so many programs on at the library these holidays. To check them all out, visit https://www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/Events-directory/events

Here’s a taste of some:

Decoupage Designs for Teens

@ Lane Cove

Wednesday 8 January, 2:00pm – 3:00pm.

Spend an afternoon designing your own box, with a variety of decorations to make it your style. Ages 10-17 years. Tickets are available 30 minutes before the session from the front desk.

Despicable Me 4 Movie

@ Lane Cove

Monday 13 January, 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Gru, Lucy, Margo, Edith, and Agnes welcome a new member to the family, Gru Jr., who is intent on tormenting his dad. Gru faces a new nemesis in Maxime Le Mal and his girlfriend Valentina, and the family is forced to go on the run. PG. Drop-in session. No bookings required.

Minecraft Voyage Acquatic @ St Leonards

Thursday 23 January, 2:00pm – 3:00pm.

Build and explore with Minecraft! Use your creativity and problem-solving skills to explore and build underwater worlds with code. Some experience with coding is required. Ages 7-14. Limited places. Tickets are available 30 minutes before the session from the front desk.

Lunar New Year Lantern Craft @ Lane Cove and @ St Leonards

Friday 24 January, 2:00pm – 3:00pm. Celebrate the Lunar New Year this summer by making your own paper lantern crafts to decorate your home for the festivities! All are welcome. Drop-in session. No bookings required.

…and for the parents: Canopy Concerts

The John Field Band

Saturday 7 December 6pm to 9pm

Get into the Christmas spirit with this free concert at The Canopy stage. Bookings essential, free event www. lanecove.nsw.gov.au/johnfieldband

New Year's Eve with Plastic Soul

The Canopy

Tuesday 31 December 7:00pm to 9:00pm Free event, no booking required

Synergy Youth Centre

Synergy Youth Centre is a free drop-in space where young people can go to hang out, seek information and support services or participate in programmed activities. No registration or booking required.

During school holidays, we’re open from 12:00pm – 5:00pm for kids aged 10 – 16.

Scan the QR code to see what’s on at Synergy Youth Centre this school holidays!

Credit Bianca Couchman

Mary Christmas

by Mary-Anne O'Connors

If you are right in the Christmas zone 'Mary Christmas' is the novel is for you. If you aren’t yet feeling the Christmas spirit Mary Christmas is for you. Even if you are only feeling your way into the festive season Mary Christmas novel is for you. Absolutely everyone who celebrates Christmas should get their hands on Mary Christmas. Just take a look at this cover, the red, the dress, the Christmas tree, the snow…this is every Christmas Hallmark movie! It’s super sweet and perfectly Christmasy. I absolutely recommend it!

Mary Christmas is set in the most ideal, picturesque village in the Cotswolds, UK. The setting was simply everything I have ever wanted in a Christmas story. The mulled wine, the ruddy cheeks..it’s a winter wonderland dream. It’s set in1909; women ride side saddle in long dresses and would never be seen in trousers, a woman’s big adventure is marriage and motherhood. There is no question that a career as teacher would last a year...yet Mary is a fully formed character that still feels of her time. She is just rebelling those constraints. We see her love for her teaching career and first meet her riding a yellow bicycle that I would love to own today! The story feels quite natural. We watch Mary fall in love with the dashing Johnathon Christmas and it is just the most romantic romance.

The novel is peopled with the cutest supporting characters, a big slobbery Labrador named Sherlock Bones and a sweet

st aidans

LONGUEVILLE

for Christ and His Kingdom

Bringing the joyful message of Jesus to those that have known him for a long time, or those eager to know him.

niece of a girl in Penny Christmas, Mary’s beloved Richards family and Jonathan’s Christmas relatives, as well as a village full of characters. This was just such a fun Christmas read.

Mary Christmas is a real departure from Mary-Anne O’Connors usual historical fiction. I am a fan of her previous works: Gallipoli Street, Worth Fighting For, War Flowers, Never to Surrender to name but a few. You can judge this book by its cover; it's just the sweetest Christmas romance! I adored it!

What I am looking forward to in January

• That Island Feeling Karina May

• The Writing Class Esther Campion

• Oxyx Storm Rebecca Yarros

• One Dark Night Hannah Richell

• The Governor and His Mistress Sue Williams

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

Events: Weekly Sunday School

Bible study classes

Home groups

Frail aged monthly service

Craft Circle group

Parish Lunches

Hall for hire - Perfect for:

Dance schools

Senior citizens’ activities

Mother/toddler gatherings and

Musical and drama groups

Fully functioning kitchen

Indoor/outdoor play area

Tables and chairs to seat 80

Rental negotiated on enquiry .

Regular Sunday Services: 8.00am, 10.00am, 4.30pm.

St. Aidan’s Church Contact: office@staidans.com.au

1 Christina St, Longueville

Papa Ned’s quest to build his own garden workshop from recycled materials

Ned Cholakyan, aged 93, is a Lane Cove local having down-sized eight years ago from a family home in Chatswood that he shared with his wife and three children.

A broken (rectangular) water heater in their new home sparked an idea, continuing Ned’s lifelong passion for upcycling, and over the last few months, he completed the building of a brand-new garden workshop.

All made from recycled materials, nothing went to waste! Ned got to work and built the walls for his workshop with an internal footprint of 138mm x 92mm. He opened up the hot water tank to form an L shape and utilized part of his external house walls for the other two walls that enclosed workshop (pictured).

Leftover patio roofing became the workshop roof and spare pieces of timber and brackets served as the framing.

Ned, who was born in Syria in 1932 and is of Armenian heritage, migrated to

Sydney in 1963 where he established a career as a photographer.

He recalls his earliest attempts at making and upcycling. “After WWII when everyone was suffering shortages, I wanted a bouncing ball, so I went to the local cobbler and asked for offcuts of synthetic soles. I put them in gasoline and when they became soft, I formed them into a ball and had fun,” Ned said.

“I used to lay metal articles on the railway track and wait for the train to pass over them and get pretty pressed images on them. Later, my parents warned me not to do this as it was dangerous,” he laughs.

The workshop is another project in a

FREE PUBLIC CONCERTS

long line of creative endeavors. When he was young, Ned created a scooter from a sofa, built a box camera with his father’s reading glasses (for which he was in trouble again), built his own darkroom in Sydney, a treehouse for his children in a mango tree and remodeled the kitchen, lounge and dining area in their Chatswood home, all with recycled materials.

The only thing Ned purchased to make his workshop in Lane Cove was marine grade timber to make the weatherproof door and some corflute to line the interior walls.

Papa Ned, as he is called by his five grandchildren, is, they say, an inspiration to his family, and no doubt an inspiration to all.

Christmas at Home Concert

When people sing together, their heartbeats become in sync. Thus combined, we make a unique kind of music through the sheer love of singing as one. It’s never too early (or too late) to join a choir, improve your health, your brain and your memory, and make new friends and have fun!

LaVoce Community Choir rehearses every Tuesday during school terms from 6.15 to 8.00pm at the Living and Learning Centre, 180 Longueville, Road, Lane Cove. There is no audition or requirement to read music. We sing popular songs selected by the choir members for the joy of it.

These two concerts are the last of our free public concerts provided for everyone’s enjoyment in 2024. Bookings on the Lane Cove Library website are essential for the Christmas Concert in the Library on 12 December. Also, if you are planning to attend the At Home Concert at The Living and Learning Centre on 10 December, it would be helpful to let us know at the Enquiries email address shown below. Come and sing with us in our home so you can see how wonderful it can be.

Tuesday, 10 December, 6:30pm Living and Learning Centre, 180 Longueville Road, Lane Cove

Christmas Concert Thursday, 12 December, 6:30pm Lane Cove Library Library Walk, Lane Cove

ENQUIRIES: lavoce.choir@icloud.com www.lavocelanecove.com

Help change the future for sick kids with the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation Christmas Appeal

Christmas is a precious time that should be filled with laughter, play and joyful memories.

Unfortunately, for thousands of sick kids receiving care across Sydney Children's Hospitals Network (SCHN), this time of year is filled with appointments instead of playdates and hospital stays instead of sleepovers.

These kids are too ill or injured to be where they want to be - at home surrounded by their family and that magical festive spirit they desperately want to be a part of.

That was the case for Koby and Cooper. When Koby was born, his parents, Amanda and Michael, were shocked to discover their beautiful little boy had suffered three mini-strokes and was struggling to breathe. Instead of heading home with his family, Koby was hooked up to life-saving machines. Thanks to the expert care he received, Koby defied the odds and now thrives as a healthy, happy child.

Just a few years later, Amanda and Michael experienced déjà vu with their second son, Cooper. He wasn’t even 24 hours old when little Cooper stopped breathing on Christmas Eve. The incredible team from the Newborn and paediatric Emergency Transport Service (NETS) were able to stabilise him and in what Amanda described as Cooper’s “first sleigh ride,” he was airlifted by NETS to receive life-saving treatment.

Thanks to the expert support of

these teams, today, they have a happy, healthy little family that is ready to celebrate a very special Christmas. By supporting the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Foundation Christmas Appeal, you can help families like Amanda and Michael’s experience the magic of Christmas with their children. You can help provide new equipment, training and education, groundbreaking research, or state-of-the-art facilities to help get sick kids back to the childhood they deserve.

How can you help?

• Donate today to help provide sick kids with the best possible healthcare, whenever and wherever they need it.

• Volunteer at one of our incredible Christmas activities and spread holiday cheer.

• Leave a gift in your will to build a legacy and change the future for sick kids.

For more information about how you can get involved, visit schf.org.au or contact us on 1800 770 122.

Gallery Lane Cove + Creative Studios closes the year with cluster of unified exhibitions

As we mark the end of one year and the beginning of another, Gallery Lane Cove + Creative Studios focuses on three exhibitions this December that, although separate and unique, each reflect on the unifying theme of marking through distinct approaches to artmaking. This theme is explored both as literal interpretations of markmaking and as metaphors for marking the passage of time.

Fiona Davies' "The Night Passes" is a multifaceted installation consisting of video, sound, and objects. It explores the night as a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, aiming to challenge traditional ways of knowing, prioritise lived experiences, and create a space for dialogue and collaboration.

Abby Chambers' "Fun. Unlimited. A drawing installation" explores the environmental impact of cruise ships through a large-scale drawing created onsite using charcoal and mixed media. Cruise ships, symbols of leisure and escapism, promote environmental observation rather than engagement. They also embody consumerism and contribute significantly to pollution, with a quarter of all ocean waste originating from these vessels.

Gary Gregg and Daniela Minns' exhibition, "Gary Gregg + Daniela Minns = Conversations in Mark Making," continues the dialogue and exploration of mark-making. This series of experimental works includes both individual paintings and collaborative works on paper, exploring the language of the artist— the mark. Through a process of exchange and building upon each

other’s marks, Gregg and Minns have created an artistic dialogue spanning their relationship as both family and fellow artists. As they explain, "For the abstract artist, marks are a language, a way to express ideas as art."

"The Night Passes," "Fun. Unlimited," and "Gary Gregg + Daniela Minns = Conversations in Mark Making" will be on show at Gallery Lane Cove + Creative Studios from December 4 to 21. The opening event will be held at 6:00pm on Wednesday, December 11. Entry to the exhibition and opening event is free, and everyone is welcome.

Visit the Gallery’s website for more information, to request a catalogue of works, or to RSVP to the opening event.

Scene Theatre’s 2024 Soirée in Waverton

• Sunday, December 15 at 5:00 PM

• Waverton Hall, 75 Bay Road Waverton Station is across the street.

The 2024 Soirée is set to conclude this year. Scene Theatre Sydney’s Carol Dance says, “After the success of the 2023 Soirée, we’ve become bolder and funnier than last year. And, we’ve kept the same informal atmosphere. The 2024 Soirée includes a pianist to jazz up the event. There are five short comic plays and dramatic readings of letters from Spike Milligan, lovelorn Napoleon to philandering Josephine and several surprising letters we’ve unearthed from Australia’s colonial past.”

The performers are László Weidlich, winner of the ‘Best Actor’ Award at the 2024 Theatre in Paradise Festival; Willoughby’s Julia Dance, an actor and director at the Mosman Musical Society; Phil Lye, performer for Radio Active; and Turramurra’s Gerry Foley on the piano.

Scene Theatre Sydney is notfor-profit and registered charity committed to developing and providing entertaining events at low ticket prices. The company has been producing plays since 2008. Their first Soirée was in 2023. They had such a positive reaction from the audience that they decided to stage it again this year. The 2024 Soirée is all new material, incudes the jazz pianist and is even more entertaining.

Last year’s Soirée was sold out so booking is essential. www.events.humanitix.com/ scenetheatre-soiree-2024

Abby_Chambers_Carnival_Princess_1.

Fiona Davies The Night Passes.jpg

Gary Gregg and Daniela Minns_Hero_ stand-in.

100 WORDS

The Christmas ornament had been passed down from my German ancestors and was centuries old. A little beet made of felt that had survived the Franco-Prussian War and several world wars. It took pride of place amongst the glass baubles shaped like gherkins, pinecones and icicles. When the decorating was complete, I could see the beet peeking out behind the glittering tinsel cascading from the branches of the Douglas fir tree. One morning, I awoke to see my dog Pepper, sniffing at the tree and then noticed the object in his mouth. It was the beet… in pieces.

Perihan Bozkurt, Lane Cove

She emerged from the darkness of my dream. A luminous being, lit from within, flaxen hair, alabaster skin and pale, sea foam green eyes. She looked to be about six or seven years old, yet her wisdom and compassion towards me was staggering. She didn’t utter a word, just hovered there, all knowing. The little boy with straight black hair, and olive skin was even younger, yet equally wise and caring. He floated past me, with an offer extended on silver tray. At the crossroads of my life, they met me with an answer to my prayer…my guardian angels.

Perihan Bozkurt, Lane Cove

DO YOU HAVE A 100 WORD STORY?

Email: editor@ thevillageobserver. com.au

Just wait a minute!

"The invitation to Advent, in a time of personal and global crisis, is to sit in the waiting. The invitation is to name the hard truths we carry. The invitation is to move slowly through the prayers and songs at this time which call for ransom, release, and freedom."

In our own time, we seem to be at risk of losing the positive power of waiting. The season of Advent has become so overwhelmed by Christmas brought forward ever earlier into December …or November, that it barely registers as a season of prayerful restraint, attention, and watching. Even Advent calendars — which can offer helpful ways of focusing and waiting —have become, in our consumerist world, marked by indulgence; they often offer us (sometimes through a piece of chocolate, a daily shot of gin or piece of cheese) a foretaste of very secular ideas of Christmas feasting.

Those of us who follow Christ, however, are called to wait alertly and expectantly for his arrival among us. Certainly, for me, Christmas seems weightless without the waiting. It is in the watching and waiting for the arrival of Christ at Christmas that we find ourselves dwelling in the remarkable, pregnant, and holy space between the old world that is passing away and God’s new creation.

In Advent’s exquisite waiting, we have a foretaste of the world as it is and as it is yet to be. Christina Rossetti’s line was: 'Love came down at Christmas. 'I want to suggest that we savour this truth when we wait hopefully and expectantly; for all that the waiting can be frustrating, exhausting, and oh, so very irritating — even for those of us more familiar with a queue — as we wait on, and for, Christ as Christmas approaches, all are called into a great gift …from God.

This Advent, Lane Cove Community Chaplaincy will be sharing a series of reflections under the theme, 'Expanding Advent'. The series has been prepared in recognition that we are living in a time of acute crisis in the Holy Land, the very lands of Jesus' birth. Many communities like ours are wrestling with the language, themes and ideas of the Advent season in light of the present war in Palestine, Israel and the wider Middle East. Over the next five weeks we’ll offer a range of resources including reflections, art and vigil to enrich our journey through this Advent season.

Week 1 - Introduction and Expanding our Language

Week 2 - Expanding our Hearts

Week 3 - Expanding our Minds

Week 4 - Expanding our Senses

Week 5 - Expanding our Hospitality

These will be released on our Website and though our regular e-Updates —make sure you’re subscribed. You'll also be able to find them each week on social media.

Waiting with one another is one of the things we do. Want to know more?

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

Liam McKenna

Lane Cove Community Chaplain

P: 0404 596 592

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

Supported by Lane Cove Uniting Church

The not-so-glamourous chaotic life as a GP

I am often asked what life is like as a General Practitioner (or family physician, as known in the United States). It is a job that is highly rewarding, at times stressful and chaotic with a daily rollercoaster of emotions and surprises, and with more needles than I care to imagine.

I recall when I was a junior doctor, a careers advice officer once said that GP work is ‘not glamorous or sexy’ (there are surgeons for that reason). Whilst there is some truth in that statement, there are important reasons why General Practice is a speciality in itself, and this profession is often known as the Swiss Army Knife of medicine.

What makes the job so unique (read: unpredictable) is that as a GP, I often have no prior idea or warning as to what has brought this patient to my consultation room on this day. It could be a relatively straight forward common-cold problem which only needs supportive care, an explanation that antibiotics are not required and a medical certificate. Or it could be someone who is acutely depressed, sometimes suicidal, who requires immediate in-depth care to keep them safe, but with the downside of making all my future appointments run way behind schedule. Ahhh, if only people’s every problem could fit perfectly into a standard appointment slot, then that would make a GP’s work day run perfectly smoothly.

Intrigued? Let me give you a peek behind the stethoscope.

The Waiting Room Merry-go-round

A GP’s waiting room is a symphony of life’s greatest hits and the three Cs: coughing, crying, and (avoiding) COVID. It is filled with patients from all walks of life. From Mr Brown’s ‘my toe hurts, but only when I eat tinned tuna. What’s wrong with me, doc?’ (maybe a gout attack); to Mrs Lee ‘I googled that my headache could be due to eating too many bananas’ (please stop googling!); to Mr Richard’s last-minute additions ‘Doc, before I go, I forgot to tell you that I’ve been coughing up blood lately’ (close partiallyopen door, and start consultation again). Thankfully, I have a doctor’s own go-to medicine – coffee – to get me through these mornings.

Lunch? What’s that?

By now its lunchtime – or so my stomach thinks. In reality, I’m buried with paperwork from that same morning or trying to work on overdue insurance medical reports, mental health care plans and Centrelink certificates for patients. In between, I am racing off to do home visits to give regular injections or nursing home check-ups to my elderly patients. If I am really pressed for time, I will do the nursing home reviews via telehealth which also allows me to make changes to medication charts remotely (Thank goodness for technology!) The mythical lunch break is more of a suggestion than a guarantee. Lunch break is over, already?!

A Script for Perspective medication

Being a GP means being part healer, part counsellor and part cheerleader. I’ll never know if I’ll spend the day diagnosing another rash, supporting a patient who has experienced another miscarriage, or being supportive and encouraging of an overweight patient who has finally been able to shed some kilos. The highs are high: delivering good news, seeing a patient thrive through adolescence, or witnessing a child’s eczema finally improve. The lows – end-of-life conversations, telling an elderly patient that they are no longer legally safe to drive, trying to change people’s self-destructive behaviours, and red-tape bureaucratic frustrations – remind me that medicine isn’t all sunshine and stethoscopes.

Closing Time (not really)

As the light outside my window dims, depressing me at the realisation I have spent the whole day indoors ‘You should go outside Doc, it’s a beautiful day outside’ (I know, I know…), it’s a miracle if I leave my practice anytime soon after official closing time. A GP’s kryptonite - more and more paperwork awaits – including phone call messages left for me during the day that can’t be left til the next day (Hello, Mrs Smith? So, you said you’ve had chest pain since last night…). Later now in my life, I have learnt to keep a better perspective on work-life balance. There is nothing more motivating to leave work on time, than your child waiting to be picked up from daycare before the centre’s own closing time, and risking a $5-perminute pick-up penalty fine for being late.

Tomorrow’s day promises more of the same - unexpected illnesses, quirky questions ‘Doc, is it okay to eat salad every day?’ (Yes, it’s fine), kids running rampant in my room wanting to play with my printer, and of the satisfaction of knowing that I’ve helped make a difference in someone’s life today, one rumbling tummy at a time.

Being a GP is uniquely rewarding. I get to be part of people’s lives in a way few other professions allow. I have a toddler’s beautiful thank-you picture note for looking after her family which still sits proudly on my desk (that toddler has just finished her HSC last year). It’s the little things that remind me of the impact this GP can humbly make in someone’s life.

Wishing all TVO readers a wonderful Christmas, filled with lots of memorable moments with your loved ones. See you all in 2025!

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

The Garden BY

JENNY ENGLAND

It is mid-morning, early Spring. I can feel the gentle warmth of the Sun on my skin. I find a quiet shady spot with a bench, take my watercolour pad, watercolour pencils, jar of water and brush from my bag and place them next to me. Mornings of sketching and painting have become regular occasions since I discovered The Garden: a tranquil oasis of native flora tucked away behind the shops and offices in the heart of a busy urban suburb. The 3.3 hectares, originally transformed from a disused sandstone quarry over fifty years ago, is now home to a vast range of native species all carefully tendered by a group of dedicated volunteers. I am now one of them.

I love the entire native flora – the eucalypts, acacias, grevilleas, the adorable flannel flower and ferns of all kinds. However my favourite is the Weeping Bottlebrush (Callistamon viminalis): a graceful hardy tree that bursts into a blaze of colour when covered with brilliant red brushes that appear in the Spring, attracting birds from near and far. I have one in front of me, so today it is to be the feature of my artistic endeavour and if content with the result I will frame the painting and make copies for greeting cards. I start by making some rough marks in pencil, experimenting with the best layout for aesthetic appeal. Then I begin lightly sketching the long light green leaves with a couple of the green pencils to make the colour as realistic as possible. Later, after I add the brush flowers I’ll use water to bring it all to life. Today I am working quicker than usual as there is an important issue to be discussed with one of my fellow volunteers who will I hope, be joining me soon.

“Hey, that’s already looking good,” a familiar voice from behind commented on my preliminary strokes on the page. “I brought us some coffee,” she added pouring two cups from a thermos and handing me one.

Our casual meeting today is critical as we need to discuss strategies to oppose a multi-story residential development currently before the Council that will potentially block most of the sunlight from The Garden, to be approved. Local Councils and communities are being encouraged to increase density in urban settings to address population expansion and housing supply issues. However it is increasingly becoming apparent that a good deal of wildlife, both flora and fauna will undoubtedly be collateral damage. This is not just because of the destruction of the natural environment due to urban sprawl but also to the devastating demise of small sanctuaries in urban areas like The Garden.

“The demonstration we held outside the Council Chambers the other day was given excellent coverage by the local paper and appears to have had the impact we are after. Our submission and petition has been presented to the Council and is in the process of being tabled. But we need to do more as its amazing how many locals don’t even know about The Garden,” my colleague informs me.

“What about holding an Open Day, inviting all the Councillors and other local dignities to it to encourage them to get involved? I could put together an exhibition of my sketches and paintings which we could auction to raise more funds to help our fight,” I suggest after giving it a few minutes of thought.

“Great idea!” she replies, “I’ll call an urgent meeting for this Saturday so we can get the ball rolling,” she says as she jumps up and heads towards the car park.

“See you then,” I call to her as she quickly scurries off.

I look down at the start of my bottlebrush watercolour painting. Now it’s not just about finishing it because I will thoroughly enjoy the process, it will also be because I will be doing it for a very worthy cause…one close to my heart.

A

delicious summer salad (that can also be passed off as a Christmas dish too)

Rocket, chicken and date salad

• 300 gram chicken breast fillet, trimmed

• 3 cup (750ml) water

• 1 large orange (300g)

• 1/2 medium pomegranate (160g)

• 70 gram baby rocket leaves (arugula)

• 4 fresh dates (80g), seeded, quartered lengthways

• 12 dry roasted natural almonds (15g), chopped coarsely

Dressing

• 1 1/2 tablespoon orange juice

• 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice

• orange rind

• 3 teaspoon fresh lemon thyme

• 2 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil

• pinch pepper

Method

Place chicken and the water in a small saucepan over high heat; bring to the boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Remove from heat; cool for 20 minutes.

Meanwhile, using a zester, zest rind from half the orange in long thin strips. Peel orange, cut orange into segments, reserving 1½ tablespoons of juice.

To make dressing; combine juices, rind, thyme and oil in a small jug. Season with pepper.

Remove seeds from pomegranate; reserve.

Remove chicken from poaching liquid; shred chicken coarsely.

Arrange rocket on a large serving plate. Drizzle with a little dressing. Top with chicken, orange segments, dates, pomegranate seeds and nuts. Drizzle with remaining dressing. RECIPE

Rivals (Disney+)

Rivals brings Dame Jilly Cooper’s classic book to life in a bold, shamelessly entertaining series filled with class conflict, sharp humour, and a fair bit of trousers-down risqué fun. Set in the picturesque English countryside, it’s a delightfully sprawling soap opera where scheming, affairs, and unexpected twists abound. With David Tennant as the arch-villain, this clever, addictive series mixes wit and wickedness, capturing the spirited essence of 90’s Britain in a fresh, unapologetically joyful binge-watch.

★★★★½

Why you should watch it:

One of the juiciest and most irresistibly addictive series in a long time.

The Enfield Poltergeist (AppleTV)

The Enfield Poltergeist haunting occurred at 284 Green Street, Enfield, London, in the late 1970s. The Hodgson family, who were living in the house at the time, experienced many strange and unsettling events that became widely known as the Enfield Poltergeist case. This series offers a unique twist by having actors lip-sync to real recordings made at the time, which gives the series an authentic, unsettling feel. The mix of historical accuracy and supernatural suspense adds a fresh layer of immersion to the chilling events experienced by the family.

★★★★

Why you should watch it: It’s authentic, creepy and immersive.

What I watched on TV…

Stephen Miller delivers his expert TV recommendations, introducing you to the latest and greatest shows. Whether you’re in the mood for a thrilling drama, a lighthearted comedy, or a hidden gem, Stephen’s curated picks never disappoint. Dive in and explore the best of what’s on TV!

The Diplomat – Season 1 and 2 (Netflix)

The Diplomat delivers an engaging blend of political drama and suspense. Starring Keri Russell as a newly appointed US ambassador to the UK, the show dives deep into the complexities of international relations, diplomacy, and personal struggles. Russell’s performance is intense and compelling, while the script keeps viewers hooked with clever dialogue and unexpected twists. Balancing highstakes political intrigue with moments of dark humour, The Diplomat offers a fresh take on the challenges of modern diplomacy.

★★★★

Why you should watch it: Gripping political drama, smart dialogue, and intriguing characters.

Though Shalt Not

Steal (Stan)

Set in the rugged outback of 1980s Australia, Thou Shalt Not Steal follows Robyn, a 17-year-old Aboriginal girl who escapes a juvenile detention centre. She’s joined by Gidge, a troubled young man fleeing his oppressive preacher father. The two then embark on a dangerous journey across the outback, leaving Robyn’s small community behind. Beautifully photographed, the series explores important justice and equality issues, particularly highlighting the mistreatment and struggles faced by Indigenous communities.

★★★★

Why you should watch it: Stunning visuals, compelling story, and powerful cultural themes.

Woman of the Hour (Netflix)

Woman of the Hour tells the chilling true story of Cheryl Bradshaw’s 1978 appearance on a US dating game show, where she unknowingly chooses serial killer Rodney Alcala as her date. Directed and starred in by Anna Kendrick, the film expertly builds eerie tension around this real-life encounter, capturing the disturbing reality of danger hidden in plain sight. It’s a haunting, well-crafted thriller that lingers long after the credits roll, leaving audiences with an unsettling reminder of how appearances can deceive.

★★★★

Why you should watch it:

True crime, gripping suspense, powerful direction, haunting performance.

Tokyo Vice – Season 1 and 2 (SBS OnDemand)

Jake Adelstein, an American journalist, immerses himself in the Tokyo Vice Police Department, navigating the vibrant yet dangerous world of 1990s Tokyo. The series effectively captures the tension and intrigue of this era, presenting a gripping story that intertwines the lives of cops, criminals, and reporters. With intense performances, Tokyo Vice delves into the murky areas where crime, tradition, and ambition collide. Ansel Elgort and Ken Watanabe deliver standout performances, making this series a captivating, yet often overlooked, television gem.

★★★★

Why you should watch it:

Tokyo Vice is a thrilling journey through Tokyo’s dark underbelly.

Assessing baby boomer expectations for future aged care community services and accommodation infrastructure in Australia

We are investigating if existing aged care services and infrastructure will meet BB expectations as they become octogenarians. We also shall identify changes needed to support services and infrastructure for the BB cohort. This study is being conducted online (online survey).

 Are you eligible to participate?

Time commitments:

• Were you born between 1946 and 1964?

• Do you use a computer?

• Are you independent and physically active?

• Would you like to help shape future services?

 What will the project involve?

• We will ask you to complete an online survey.

• Online Survey (15-minutes) via a REDCap link to the information sheet, consent form and survey:

If you are interested, please use the link or QR code to join our study. The REDCap link and QR code to access the survey are here: https://redcap.sydney.edu.au/ surveys/?s=H4JRNMHTYAHKLDRX

Alternatively, you can contact Liz via email: liz.gill@sydney.edu.au

Study Information Sheet

Research Study: Assessing baby boomer reported expectations for future aged care community services and accommodation infrastructure in Australia.

1. Who is running the study?

The study is being carried out by the following researchers:

• Dr Liz Gill - The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney Email: liz.gill@sydney.edu.au

• Professor Ian Cameron - The John Walsh Centre for Rehabilitation Research, The University of Sydney Email: ian.cameron@sydney.edu.au

We are doing a study to investigate if existing aged care services and infrastructure will meet Baby Boomer expectations as they become octogenarians. We also plan to identify what changes will be required for support services and infrastructure to meet the needs of the Baby Boomer cohort.

This study is being conducted via an online survey. We invite you to be a part of our study because you are an active, fit and well baby boomer.

You can choose to take part, but you don’t have to. If you choose to take part but later feel that you no longer want to, you can simply stop taking part.

If you have any questions, you can ask us. If you want to, you can contact us at liz.gill@sydney.edu.au.

2. What will happen if I say yes?

You will be asked to complete an online survey.

3. What are the good or bad things about the study?

The study will take up some of your time, and it will not cost you anything.

Once we have finished the study, we will let you know what we found out.

4. What are your rights?

Whatever your answers to the online survey you will not be able to be identified. We will write about the things we learn from analysing the survey, but we won’t use your name and we won’t say anything that could tell other people who you are.

If you change your mind and want to withdraw before the analysis of the survey is undertaken that’s ok. It won’t change how we feel about you. All you have to do is tell us you wish to withdraw.

If you have any questions about the study, you can talk to Dr Liz Gill - Email: liz.gill@sydney.edu.au

5. What if I am not happy about the study?

If you are not happy with how we are doing the study and want to contact someone else, you can:

• Call the university on +61 2 8627 8176

• Email the manager at human.ethics@sydney.edu.au

A MESSAGE FROM BRANKA IVKOVIC, CEO

As I reflect on 2024, it is clear that Sydney Community Services has experienced a period of significant change, growth, and transformation. This journey has been made possible by our proactive planning and strategic foresight, allowing us to maintain stability amid ongoing changes within our organisation, and the broader landscape of community services.

The past year saw the departure of key leaders who have significantly shaped our organisation. In January 2024, we said farewell to our former CEO, Gillian Batt, who led Sydney Community Services for over nine years. Under her stewardship, our organisation doubled in size and expanded its range of services through successful mergers. We are deeply grateful for her unwavering commitment and the lasting impact she has made on our organisation.

Similarly, in April 2024, we bid farewell to John Devine, our esteemed Board Chair, who dedicated an impressive 24 years to Sydney Community Services. His guidance through numerous mergers and changes, within the disability and aged care sectors, provided essential stability during transitional periods. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to John for his exceptional commitment to our organisation and the community.

As the aged care and disability sectors evolve, we recognise the importance of strategic planning. Our Strategic Plan leverages the expertise and strengths of Sydney Community Services to deliver exceptional support to diverse communities. With the backing of our funding partners and sector peers, we achieved a 20% increase in funding supporting our growth objectives.

Scheme (NDIS) Third Party Verification Audit. This rigorous assessment evaluated our adherence to NDIS Practice Standards and Quality Indicators, reinforcing our commitment to delivering high-quality support. Our full compliance reflects the hard work and dedication of our staff, who strive to uphold the highest standards of care.

In our pursuit of excellence, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We launched our two inaugural Consumer Voice Representative Groups, allowing NDIS participants and senior consumers to share their experiences and enhance our services.

As we approach the end of the year, it’s important to recognise that this time can be particularly challenging for many members of our community. Some individuals and families may face hardships, and we want to ensure they feel supported and remembered during the holiday season.

At Sydney Community Services, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those who are struggling. This year, we are preparing our Tree of Joy gifts, aimed at providing comfort and cheer to those in need. Our goal is to bring smiles to the faces of individuals and families who might otherwise feel alone or forgotten during this festive time.

If you would like to contribute to this meaningful initiative, please look for our Tree of Joy located at the Gladesville Shopping Village Additionally, donation trolleys are available at Lane Cove Woolworths and Greenwich IGA. Your generous gift will provide a much-needed boost and help spread joy throughout our community.

Our wellness services have also seen remarkable growth. From just two weekly exercise classes in 2023, we now offer 13 classes across our hubs in Lane Cove and Hunters Hill. Additionally, community inclusion and wellness activities have surged by an impressive 300% in 2024, reflecting our community’s desire to age well. We are dedicated to supporting our participants in living their best lives.

Quality matters: Sydney Community Services achieved 100% compliance in the National Disability Insurance

Let’s come together to show support, compassion, and generosity this holiday season. Every donation, big or small, can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Together, we create a stronger, more connected community where everyone feels valued and cared for.

Thank you for your ongoing support. I wish you and our entire community a 2025 filled with peace, good health and prosperity!

Season’s Greetings. Wishing you peace, joy, and a happy holiday season, from Sydney Community Services

Please note the office will close from COB Friday 20th December 2024 and reopen on Thursday 2nd January 2025

The Memory Centre

A place to meet for people with dementia, family and friends.

Meet others living with dementia, and their carers, in similar circumstances. Talk. Share. Laugh. Enjoy. At our next café session join us for a relaxed lunch, Christmas trivia and easy, festive, sugar-cookie decorating. For those living with dementia, and their family carers. It provides an opportunity to socialise, relax, share and discover ways to live well with dementia, outside of the home.

DETAILS:

 When: Starts Wednesday 18th December 2024.

 Time: 10am to 12noon

 Where: The Meeting House Hub, 23a Stokes Street, Lane Cove North.

Limited transport available

Christmas Luncheon

Monday 2nd December 2024

Celebrate with us and enjoy a complimentary GLASS OF BUBBLES on arrival

Begin the end of year festivities at our annual Christmas lunch! Savour a traditional three-course meal complete with all the trimmings, indulge in the holiday spirit, and

TIME: 12noon - 2pm

COST: $40

3hrs free parking.

Limited local pickups available.

Enjoy a mini Christmas concert from the children at Birrahlee Preschool

WHAT’S ON DECEMBER 2024

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

Book Club 1.30-2.30pm Cost: $5

Final 2024: Mon 16 Dec

Restart 2025: Mon 20 Jan

Movement Matters

Mon, 10.30-11.30am

Final 2024: Mon 9 Dec

Restart 2025: Mon 10 Feb

Tue, 12-1pm and 1.15-2.15pm

Final 2024: Tues 10 Dec

Restart 2025: Tues 4 Dec

Wed, 11.15am-12.15pm

Final 2024: Wed 11 Dec

Restart 2025: Wed 5 Feb

Fri, 9.30-10.30am and 10.45-11.45am

Final 2024: Fri 13 Dec

Restart 2025: Fri 7 Feb

Seniors Hub

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

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

E: support@sydneycs.org

Seniors Shopping Bus

Tuesdays and Thursdays

Final 2024: Thurs 19 Dec

Restart 2025: Thurs 2 Jan.

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

P: 9003 1399

E: support@sydneycs.org

Mah Jong

Tues, 9.30-11.30am

Final 2024: Tues 17 Dec

Restart 2025: Tues 7 Jan

Wed, 1.00-3.45pm

Final 2024: Wed 18 Dec

Restart 2025: Wed 8 Jan

Cost: $5 including morning/afternoon

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

Scrabble

Thursdays, 10am - 12noon

Final 2024: Thurs 19 Dec

Restart 2025: Thurs 2 Jan

Cost: $5 incl. morning tea.

Seniors Social Support

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

Contact us for a monthly program.

E: tliu@sydneycs.org

CHESS CLUB

EVERY MONDAY

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

COST: $5pp, includes afternoon tea.

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

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

Social Bridge

Are you interested in joining social bridge, play casually with the view to possibly becoming permanent. Join us for a fun, relaxed afternoon.

Contact us to register and for more information.

Thursdays, 12.30pm - 3.30pm

Final 2024: Thurs 19 Dec

Restart 2025: Thurs 2 Jan

Cost: $5 incl. afternoon tea.

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

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

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

Forestville RSL and Christmas Lights

Wednesday 11 December

Join us for an early dinner and a trip down Borgnis Street Davidson to see the Christmas Light display. COST: $27

(plus cost of your meal) Time: 5pm to 10pm P: 94276425

E: support@sydneycs.org

Social Tennis Group

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

Final 2024: Thurs 19 Dec

Restart 2025: Please contact us for Term 1 dates.

Cost $5. Every Thursday 9-11am All players must register prior to playing – please call Julie 9427 6425.

Table Tennis Cost: $5

Fridays, 12.00 - 4.00pm

Final 2024: Fri 13 Dec Restart 2025: Fri 3 Jan

BOOMers Mens Group

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

Contact us for the full program.

When: Fridays Departs: 10.00am from Lane Cove Hub, Pottery Lane Returns: 2.00pm

Contact us for the monthly program and the cost involved.

E: hheggie@sydneycs.org

Social Bus Outings

Join us every Tuesday when we venture to new destinations and meet other local seniors. These trips are weekly and either half or full-day outings.

Time: 9.00am - 4.00pm

Cost: Contact us for the monthly program and the cost involved.

Women's Wellness Class - Tuesdays

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

Please note the office will close from COB Friday 20th December 2024 and reopen on Thursday 2nd January 2025

support@sydneycs.org

Join Andrew Fisher, an expert facilitator, for a series of functional fitness classes.

WHEN: Monday, 10.45am - 11.45am. Final 2024: Mon 16 Dec Restart 2025: Contact for Term 1 dates

COST: First class free, then pay by the term: 9 week term $108 ($12 per class)

VENUE: Meeting House Hub, 23a Stokes St, Lane Cove North.

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

• Wednesday 9.30am to 10.30am. Final 2024: Wed 11 Dec Restart 2025: Wed 5 Feb

• 10-week term at $12 per session, or $17 per casual visit.

• Sydney Community Services, Park View Room, 1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove FOR MORE INFO PLEASE CONTACT: P: 9427 6425 E: support@sydneycs.org

THE MEMORY CENTRE

A place to meet for people with dementia, their family and friends

Meet others living with dementia, and their carers. Talk. Share. Laugh. Enjoy. Join us Wed 18 Dec 2024, 10am to 12noon, at The Meeting House Hub, 23a Stokes Street, Lane Cove North.

BOOKINGS AND ENQUIRIES: P: 9427 6425 E: support@sydneycs.org

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

CLR TRENTON BROWN CITY OF RYDE MAYOR

P: 9952 8222

E: mayor@ryde.nsw.gov.au

Healing arts

The City of Ryde has welcomed local painter and mixed media artist Louisa Chan to its beautiful studio space at Westward Cottage in the heart of Ryde.

Louisa was selected from an impressive list of candidates to become Council’s 2024/25 Artist in Residence.

On Saturday 7 December, Louisa is presenting Seashell Serenity: A Healing Arts Experience at Westward Cottage, 8 Turner Street, Ryde, from 10.30am-12.00pm.

In this hands-on experience, attendees will explore the therapeutic benefits of nature-inspired artmaking, using seashells to express emotions and reduce stress.

To register, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/ SeashellSerenity

Time for seasonal joy

After a busy and rewarding 2024, thoughts are turning to well-earned summer holidays and plenty of Christmas joy as the most magical time of the year arrives.

I believe Christmas should be celebrated in style, with plenty of traditional family fun and – naturally – lots of singing.

We’re kicking off the season with Council’s annual free Cinema in the Park event, which is being held at Fontenoy Park, Macquarie Park, on Saturday 7 December, with gates opening at 6.00pm and the movie screening at sundown.

This year’s movie is the heart-warming family comedy The Santa Clause, starring Tim Allen as an ordinary suburban dad who becomes an unwitting fill in for Santa after an unfortunate roof-top accident. You’ll be guaranteed lots of laughs and maybe even a few happy tears.

Also being held on Saturday 7 December is Christmas in Anzac Park, West Ryde, which is proudly supported by the City of Ryde.

From 5.00-8.00pm, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as we gather together to enjoy enchanting carols, live performances and other great entertainment. There will be a petting zoo, free face painting and kids’ activities, food vans and much more. Another great Christmas event proudly supported by Council is the annual Rotary Carols on the Common, being held at North Ryde Common on Sunday 15 December from 5.00-9.30pm.

This famous event is Sydney’s second-largest Christmas carol gathering so come along and enjoy your favourite songs performed by some fantastic artists from all over the city as well as an awe-inspiring firework finale.

On behalf of Councillors and staff at the City of Ryde, I’d like to wish all the Village Observer readers a wonderful Christmas and a happy, safe, and prosperous new year. See you in 2025!

TIM JAMES MP

P: 9439 4199

E: willoughby@parliament.nsw.gov.au

As we come to the end of 2024, I want to take a moment to thank everyone in our community and to reflect on the progress we’ve made over the past year. It has been a year of challenges and accomplishments and I am incredibly grateful for the contributions of so many people who have worked tirelessly to make our community a better place for all.

I am deeply appreciative of the support, feedback and involvement of our community members. This year, many of you reached out with your thoughts, attended community events and engaged with us on important issues. Your input is what makes our work meaningful and keeps us connected to the real challenges and aspirations of our community. Together, we’ve tackled a range of issues and celebrated key milestones, all with a focus on making our area an even better place to live.

I would also like to thank my dedicated team at the Willoughby Electorate Office. Their hard work and commitment have been essential in delivering on our promises and supporting the needs of our residents. Whether it’s addressing local concerns, assisting with community projects or managing the day-to-day demands of our office, my team has shown resilience, passion and an unwavering commitment to serving our community. To my staff, thank you for going above and beyond to make a positive impact.

With the Christmas season upon us, I hope everyone has the chance to relax, spend time with loved ones and enjoy the spirit of the holidays. This season is a reminder of the importance of family, friendship and community - values that lie at the heart of everything we do. It’s a time to look back on our achievements and to look forward to new goals and possibilities.

As we head into 2025, there’s much to look forward to. We have ambitious plans and initiatives in the works and I am excited to continue working alongside you to achieve them. Our community is strong, resilient and full of potential and with your ongoing support I believe we can make a lasting difference.

On behalf of myself and my entire team, I wish each of you a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Here’s to a successful and rewarding 2025 for us all.

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

ZAC MILES HUNTERS HILL MAYOR

P: 9879 9400

E: mayor@huntershill.nsw.gov.au

Christmas festivities are here!

Hunters Hill is fortunate to always have a range of activities and events in the lead up to Christmas so that we can all enjoy the holiday spirit.

This year, the celebrations kick off at our local library and community space, The Yarn, which is hosting a range of Christmas workshops and festive goodies. Families can pick up and enjoy free Mystery Christmas Craft Bags filled with fun holiday-themed activities for adults, teens and kids throughout December.

On 11 December, there will be a Christmas Beetle Storytime session from 11am, followed by a creative Christmas beetle craft session from 3pm. No registration is required for these events.

Another highlight on the December events calendar for Hunters Hill is the highly anticipated annual Carols in the Park.

The event will take place on Sunday 8 December from 5pm at Boronia Park and will feature live entertainment from local musicians, food and market stalls as well as a visit from Santa and his helpers. As always, the night will be capped off with a spectacular fireworks display.

Following the Christmas celebrations is New Year’s Eve. Clarke’s Point Reserve is an incredible vantage point for watching the fireworks displays, offering stunning views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It always attracts many visitors to the peninsula, looking to enjoy the display.

Due to the crowd expected to visit the area, road closures and parking restrictions are necessary to ensure that the peninsula remains accessible for emergency services throughout the New Year’s Eve festivities.

Check out our website for all event details: www. huntershill.nsw.gov.au/events.

From all of us at Hunter’s Hill Council, we wish all in our community a safe and enjoyable Christmas and a happy and prosperous New Year ahead.

The spirit of giving

Our Council is proud to once again support the Sydney Community Services’ donation drive.

Council has set up a donation station under the Christmas Tree in the Town Hall foyer to collect food and personal items for families in need this festive season.

Donations are being accepted until Wednesday 11 December. The collected items will be packaged into Christmas hampers and distributed to those in need by Sydney Community Services. For information about how you can assist or what you can donate, visit www.huntershill.nsw.gov.au/news.

Thank you to our friends, contributors and advertisers

We wish you a safe and Happy Christmas

OBSERVER

Look out for our digital edition in January. Then TVO will be back in print for the Februry issue.

“You meet a lot of cool people and learn new skills. It gives me a sense of purpose and I really look forward to it.”

Eli, School-leaver & Volunteer

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COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Pizza + Movie Nights, Longueville

UC Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville

TIME : 6.30pm. Pizza; 7.15pm Movie

3 December – Charade (1963) –Romantic comedy/mystery. Expect the unexpected in this cinema classic tale of cat and mouse, starring Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn,Walter Matthau and James Coburn.

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

Time 4U Every Wednesday @ 10am till Noon @ Longueville Uniting Church Hall, 47A Kenneth St, Longueville

Our last Time4U for 2024 will be 18 December. We will resume on 5 February 2025

Friendly and relaxed mornings with home-made morning tea, discussion, documentaries and board games All are welcome to come and join us. Transport can be arranged.

Cost $5 Enquiries: Chris 9428 4287

Anglican Parish of Hunters Hill (All Saints' and St Mark's)

CHRISTMAS SERVICES:

CHRISTMAS EVE

6pm Intergenerational Service @ All Saints'. Includes Nativity, well-loved Carols and Holy Communion.

CHRISTMAS DAY

8am Holy Communion @ St Mark's 10am Holy Communion @ All Saints Both include well-loved Carols.

Improve your health

Expand

your mind Make new friends

From bus outings to bingo to bollywood music, there’s plenty on offer at the Crows Nest Centre.

9439 5122

Large hall availble for hire at:

• 1 Christina Ave, Longueville.

• Perfect for all community groups.

• Available on a weekly, monthly or school term basis.

• Fully functioning kitchen, toilets, indoor/outdoor play area, plus a number of tables and chairs.

Rental negotiated on enquiry.

Please contact: office@staidans.com.au

SOLD - $3,050,000

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

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

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

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

James Bennett 0403 504 724 E: james.bennett@belleproperty.com

Steven O’Neill 0499 693 665 E: steven.oneill@belleproperty.com

Simon

Belle Property Hunters Hill 3/52-56 Gladesville Road, Hunters Hill 9817 7729 Belle Property Lane Cove 162 Longueville Road, Lane Cove 9087 3333 Belle Property Willoughby 551 Willoughby Road, Willoughby 9958 5211 Belle Property Lindfield Suite 20, 12-18 Tryon Road, Lindfield 9416 6999

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

684 Mowbray Road, Lane Cove 4 bed 2 bath 3 car

20 Pengilly Street, Lane Cove 5 bed 4 bath 2 car

Angus Avenue, Lane Cove 4 bed 3 bath 2 car

Yarrandi Place, Longueville 5 bed 3 bath 4 car