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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.
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:
Welcome to the July edition of TVO!
It’s hard to believe that this is my third issue as editor. It has been such an enjoyable experience being immersed in the many cultural and community activities that our area offers. I’ve lived in Lane Cove for 16 years and it’s such a privilege to live somewhere so blessed with natural beauty and fantastic amenities. But TVO is showing me I’ve barely touched the surface of what’s on offer!
Of course no matter where we live we are not immune from the pressures of modern life, and sometimes will find ourselves needing support. Recently I spent an enjoyable morning in a Lane Cove café with Duda Baldwin, a local couples therapist and relationship counsellor who shared her thoughts on how her work is evolving to meet the many changes in society.
As well as Duda’s insights we also have Maggie Lawrence’s interview with Chatswood’s Joshua Rasco, who made the transition from U.S. military IT specialist to Bowen therapist.
I hope that you enjoy this issue. If you have any feedback to share, a community event to publicise or an idea for a story, please get in touch.
North Sydney powers up with 60 new EV charging stations
Electric vehicle owners now have more options to charge their cars, with 60 new grant-funded charging stations being installed in North Sydney Council car parks this winter.
The chargers can be found in car parks in North Sydney, Kirribilli, Cammeray, Wollstonecraft, Cremorne and Crows Nest – including a super site on Holtermann Street where up to 26 vehicles can charge at once. With a mix of ultra-rapid DC, rapid DC and fast AC charging, electric vehicle (EV) drivers will find a charging station that suits their needs. Payment is accepted via contactless or via charge point operator mobile apps.
The North Sydney local government area was identified as having a significant need for public EV charging, with many residents not having access to off-street parking.
North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker said: ‘Many North Sydney residents want to embrace electric vehicles.
These new chargers provide the vital charging infrastructure people need to take that step and transition to an electric vehicle.
‘More electric vehicles on our roads mean lower emissions, better air quality, and a cleaner future.’
Three charge point operators (NRMA, Evie and ChargePost) last year received co-funding to install the EV chargers in the North Sydney car parks, from the NSW Government's electric vehicle kerbside charging grants and fast charging grants programs.
TVO ADVERTISING
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park
Alexander Street, Crows Nest (NRMA)* 8
Hume Street, Crows Nest (Evie) 4
Parraween Street, Cremorne (Evie)
Miller Lane, Cammeray (Evie)
D C fast charger
Ridge Street, North Sydney (Evie) 4 75kW D C fast charger
Nicholson Street, Wollstonecraft (ChargePost)^ 4 22kW AC charger
Hipwood Street, Kirribilli (ChargePost)^ 4 22kW AC charger
Ted Mack Civic Park, Kelrose Lane, North Sydney (ChargePost)^ 4 22kW AC charger
Holtermann Street, Crows Nest (ChargePost)^ 26 22kW AC charger
Ward Street, North Sydney (ChargePost)^ 2 22kW AC charger
* Alexander Street car park installation is scheduled to be completed by the end of July 2025.
^ ChargePost chargers require BYO charging cable.
Macquarie University plans cuts to courses and jobs
Macquarie University has proposed a restructure that will scrap key courses and cost up to 75 jobs, according to the National Tertiary Education Union.
The NTEU says that Bachelor degrees in archaeology, music and ancient languages will be scrapped, while sociology and ancient history will also be impacted.
Bachelor of Arts students will no longer be able to study politics, gender studies, criminology, and psychological studies as majors, while Masters degrees in electronics engineering, ancient history and two IT fields will also be discontinued, the Union claims.
‘Scrapping courses and cutting jobs slowly picks away at the fabric of our society that needs world-class higher education to thrive,’ said NTEU National President Dr Alison Barnes.
North Sydney Mayor Zoë Baker with one of the new electric vehicle charging stations
Lane Cove welcomes new General Manager
Lane Cove Council has announced the appointment of Louise Kerr as its new General Manager.
With 30 years of experience in the local government sector, serving in senior leadership roles at City of Sydney, City of Parramatta, and Northern Beaches Council, Ms Kerr brings experience across a wide range of services including urban planning, development assessment, economic development, regulation, project delivery, and strategic financial management. She holds a Bachelor of Town Planning (Honours) Degree.
Ms Kerr is leaving the role of Director Planning and Place at Northern Beaches Council where she also served as Interim Chief Executive Officer in 2023.
be joining the team at Lane Cove Council, and working collaboratively with the Mayor, Councillors, staff and serving the Lane Cove community.
‘This is a great opportunity to continue building on the organisation’s solid foundations and creating an even stronger future for Lane Cove.
'I look forward to working with staff in delivering efficient, costeffective services to the community, where an exceptional customer experience is provided; backed by an effective, transparent, responsive and financially sustainable organisation
'It is a privilege to be joining Lane Cove Council at this important time,’ Ms Kerr said.
Grimes, Michael Fitzgerald & Peter Louridas
Ms Kerr said she was thrilled to
Mayor Merri Southwood said Council was united in their selection
of the preferred candidate at an Extraordinary Council meeting on 2 June 2025.
‘It is clear that Ms Kerr has a deep understanding of local government and we are excited to have someone of this calibre coming on board to lead our organisation. I look forward to working with Ms Kerr as we embark on the next chapter for Lane Cove’. Ms Kerr will commence in the role on 21 July 2025 under a 5-year contract.
RNSH seeks women for bone health study
Researchers from Royal North Shore Hospital are inviting women aged 50-80 to join a study to assess the effectiveness of combining exercise with medication for better bone and muscle health in postmenopausal women.
'We know that exercise has benefits for bone and muscle health, and there are effective treatments available to strengthen bones,' said researcher Dr Shejil Kumar.
'However, what we don’t know is whether combining exercise plus medication at the same time can lead to even greater improvements in bone and muscle health than treating with either alone.'
The study will utilise a medication which is registered and approved in Australia and has been shown to increase bone density and reduce fracture risk in large international studies. Participants will be randomly assigned to different treatment groups, including a supervised group class focusing on weightbearing exercises and a home-based exercise program concentrating on mobility and balance.
'We believe this combination will be more effective and could dramatically change the way we treat and prevent osteoporosis going forward,' Dr Kumar said.
Researchers have so far recruited 45 women into the study and are hoping to reach a target of 75 women by 2026.
For further information email Shejil.Kumar@health.nsw.gov.au.
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PROCEEDS FROM THE VILLAGE OBSERVER SUPPORTS RESIDENTS OF: Lane Cove, Hunters Hill, Ryde, Willoughby and North Sydney, via Sydney Community Services – a local not-forprofit organisation that helps people to live a quality and independent life in their own home and in their community.
Peak body
‘reluctantly’ supports delay to new Aged Care Act
The Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) says it reluctantly supports the announcement of a four-month delay to the commencement of the new rights-based Aged Care Act, saying that overall, it is the right decision for older people.
‘Until now, OPAN has been steadfast in its call for the Act to be implemented, as promised, on 1 July 2025, because older people can’t get the aged care they need without it,’ said OPAN CEO Craig Gear OAM.
‘However, over the past weeks, it has become increasingly apparent that, while the macro design of the reform is solid, older people don’t have the necessary information to make informed choices at an individual level, particularly around the new Support at Home program.
‘We are also concerned that the appropriate systems aren’t yet in place to ensure continuity of care and services for older people during the transition. It is for these reasons, OPAN reluctantly supports the delay,’ Mr Gear said.
OPAN has called for the release of a minimum 20,000 additional home care packages during the four-month delay to reduce the current 83,000 people waiting up to 11 months to receive the appropriate level of home care.
‘Inadequate in-home care support pushes older people prematurely into residential aged care,’ Mr Gear said, stating that the additional time must be used to fast-track the rights-based legislation.
‘We need to use this four-month window to urgently address outstanding issues, which include accessible hardship provisions for those with limited means, and roadblocks in the single assessment system which are exacerbating waiting times for in-home aged care.
‘Older people must also be provided with the level of detail they need to make informed choices and give their informed consent.’
For information or support regarding aged care, please call the Older Persons Advocacy Network on 1800 700 600 or visit opan.org.au
Recognising community service: Branka Ivkovic named Paul Harris Fellow
At a recent Rotary Lane Cove event, outgoing President Tania Mace proudly presented Paul Harris Fellow awards to several dedicated community members, honouring their outstanding contributions to Rotary and the local area. Among the awardees was Branka Ivkovic, CEO of Sydney Community Services and publisher of The Village Observer.
Branka was also attending the event to accept a generous Rotary grant in support of Sydney Community Services’ community bus. This vital service helps seniors and people with disabilities maintain independence by providing transport to medical appointments, social activities, and shopping.
Named after Rotary’s founder, the Paul Harris Fellow is a prestigious international recognition awarded to those who demonstrate exceptional service to others. Past recipients include figures such as President Jimmy Carter and astronaut James Lovell. Branka now joins this esteemed list.
With over 20 years’ international experience, Branka has dedicated her life to supporting vulnerable communities. She is a qualified nurse and social worker, holding additional credentials in family counselling, social policy, and management. Her journey as a migrant shaped her unwavering commitment to inclusive community care. Today, she leads Sydney Community Services across its three hubs, supported by a team of 150 volunteers.
Branka is widely respected for her empathy, collaborative spirit, and vision. She continually seeks new ways to amplify community voices and drive meaningful change.
Upon receiving the award, Branka shared,
'I have witnessed the transformative power of community services in uplifting individuals and building stronger, more inclusive communities. I’m truly inspired by the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and supporters, and I’m excited to continue working together to create real impact.'
Congratulations, Branka, on this well-deserved recognition!
Branka Ivkovic (Paul Harris Fellow), Ian Longbottom (Rotary Lane Cove Member), James Shevlin (Rotary Lane Cove Member), Tania Mace (Outgoing Rotary Lane Cove President).
ASPECTS
BY MIKI
What: Kookaburra couple Where: Lane Cove North When: 3 June 2025
OKA
Scam or Be Scammed
by Liz Foster
In a world of two factor verifications designed to protect privacy, confirming your identity is becoming so complex that even the heavy hitters have gone back to basics.
A recent tax enquiry I had with the UK government (where I grew up) led to receipt of a four-page letter via snail mail, two months later. It’s a mystery as to why it couldn’t be emailed – my national insurance number is surely not a matter for national security. But then the post is the original non-hackable channel; the Hope Diamond, then valued at $1m, was famously posted from New York to Washington in 1958 for little more than the package insurance.
to a real friend about potential bank fraud on my account? Eventually I called the number in the message, crossing everything that it was fair dinkum based on my sketchy recollection of the paper letter I’d skimmed. I had to resupply all my personal info, info they already had and which had not changed.
My Aussie bank is no better, insisting on snail mailing me letters thick and fast despite my preference selection of online only. From interest rate changes to modified terms and conditions, none of them receive my attention. So, I barely clocked one recently which said something about them needing to confirm my identity for their ‘Know Your Customer’ records. I’ve been their customer for twenty-five years and given the institution most of my wages in return for a roof over the family heads and permanent short nails thanks to the monthly vagaries of the Reserve Bank. I was confident they had copies of all my personal records, blood type and coffee order and I haven’t moved house or changed my name.
Next thing I knew, a very shouty and threatening text message appeared, saying that since I hadn’t called to verify my ‘Know Your Customer’ details (not possible online) the bank had immediately blocked all account withdrawals including direct debits.
What the??? I scanned my phone in panic. Is that even legal? There was a ‘helpful’ number to call and a reference to give whereby the whole thing could be cleared up nicely. It followed several prior genuine messages from the bank. But apparently scammers are ever more sophisticated and know how to infiltrate your existing message chains. It’s screaming scam louder than the kitchen smoke detector when your toast burns.
According to the Australian Communications and Media Authority scammers often urge the customer to immediately contact the number provided within the message to create a sense of urgency. In my case I tried contacting the bank ‘via a trusted channel’ (i.e. the advertised phone number) but was flicked instead to an online message service, which assured me that ‘messaging our team is like messaging a friend.’ Since the messaging assistant is virtual, I don’t really want to be friends with her, and besides, why would I be talking
Fraudulent activity triggers are just as sensitive. I welcome the mental image of a falcon taking out a nefarious hacker as he uses my hard-earned cash to pay for his boys trip to Ibiza, but please do take my word for it if the transaction’s authentic. Recently I heard of a journalist who paid a tradie a wedge of money for work he’d done in her garden. The bank stopped the transaction and called her to verify it. She was pleased to confirm it was genuine, until the conversation took a weird turn. Was she a woman living by herself? Was it a trusted tradesperson? How happy was she with the work? Had she told anyone else about it, or commissioned it all by her lonesome? After a protracted and fractious back and forth, alarm bells ringing loudly, she hung up on him. At which point her account was suspended for the weekend.
In my case, all turned out well and it wasn’t a scam. But I’m seriously considering a bag of diamonds as my next investment which I can bury somewhere secret. It’s starting to feel a whole lot safer than entrusting my life savings to an increasingly virtual institution.
Liz Foster is a local writer. Her debut fiction novel, The Good Woman’s Guide to Making Better Choices, is out now with Affirm Press.
You can reach her by scanning this QR code to join her Readers’ Club or by emailing liz@lizfoster.com.au.
Illustration by Grace Kopsiaftis
Je ne regrette rien
Really, I blame
it all on the Golden
Eagle. However, more about that later.
In the meantime, what is the Golden Eagle? Well, it’s a luxury train company offering a series of beautiful journeys through Europe and Asia, on trains of course. Words by Adrienne Witteman.
Once a decade in my travel career I get very lucky, and in this my fifth in travel, I was fortunate to be drawn as the winner of a wonderful train journey from Istanbul to Paris, courtesy of the Golden Eagle and Entire Travel Collection. My heart was beating excitedly as I stepped up to receive the prize winner’s envelope, and the anticipation never abated during the 10-month wait to step onboard.
To be truthful, the Golden Eagle had never been uppermost in my thoughts when it came to luxury rail journeys. I knew of, and indeed had experienced and sold, the Venice Simplon Orient Express and Rovos Rail twice, and have sold several other extended rail journeys without testing them –so this was to be a completely new experience. And I would share with my sister, who seldom travels and would thus bring fresh eyes to the journey.
Our trip commenced with an included night at the 5* Four Seasons Sultanahmet, formerly Istanbul’s jail and very upgraded since its portrayal in the movie Midnight Express. No rooftop guards with guns for us –instead we enjoyed a beautiful sunset welcome cocktail party with views over the city to the sea and a melodic call to prayer. The evening promised much for the days ahead.
Our excitement was palpable as coaches drove us next morning to Istanbul station, where the Golden Eagle awaited us on a special line dedicated to this historical route. The walls were lined with photographic images or sketches of the rich and famous who journeyed this line, and we perused
these with interest while Gabor, the onboard saxophonist/ pianist, belted out nostalgic tunes that echoed around the station. For sure, it must have made others very jealous to wonder what the fuss was all about!
Beside each carriage door, at the foot of a red carpet, stood a formally attired carriage attendant enthusiastic to welcome us onboard. I’m used to trains so the size of our deluxe cabin, 7.74 m2 including twin beds and an ensuite with shower, toilet and basin, was no surprise. It was going to be a cosy experience. Certainly, it had been a long time since Lynette and I inadvertently played footsie, in beds at right angles to each other.
Our route was to take us from Turkey, through Bulgaria, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Switzerland and into France, with stops at Sofia, Belgrade, Postojna, Vienna and Reims for highlight tours with local guides. Sadly trains, like planes suffer delays, and trackwork in Serbia meant we were unable to stop at Belgrade and still maintain our schedule. Hence Belgrade was deleted and the resultant 37 hours onboard without stopping did seem a tad too long, despite some glorious scenery.
We were thus primed for the excellent off train experiences to equal that we had enjoyed in Sofia. There the grand finale of our tour, an a capella show featuring 20 women from different Bulgarian regions was mesmerising. Such beautiful national dresses, such harmonious voices … we all returned emotionally uplifted to the Golden Eagle.
In Postojna we visited the world-famous labyrinth cave complex, infinitely better than any I’ve seen before (sorry Jenolan) and a reason in itself to visit the up-and-coming destination of Slovenia. In Austria, we were treated to a private concert in a private palais – think more beautiful music and voices – before a sumptuous dinner, private of course, at one of Vienna’s most renowned restaurants. Of course, there was also an enjoyable walking tour of Vienna before we moved on towards Paris, via Reims. What a glorious last stop. Here, in Reims, we enjoyed a memorable cellar tour of Champagne J Lassalle, a small
family estate of renown in the heart of Rilly-la-Montagne. The heritage of this vineyard is rich, with successive generations of women owning and running the operation to produce truly delicious champagnes, little known in Australia.
Which circles me back to the beef I have with Golden Eagle. The food and wine we enjoyed was so tempting, I just could not resist indulging, despite waking each day with good intentions. Those early morning aromas of fresh bread and pastries baking overwhelmed my senses. Be it poached eggs or maple pancakes at breakfast, the salads/soups/sandwiches or heartier alternative at lunchtime, or the superb European style dinners and creative desserts - all were pretty much faultless. The wines, matched to each course and chosen to reflect the country we were travelling through, were served with generosity and always a smile.
The vegetarian cuisine was so appealing that I chose it several times in the vain hope any weight gain might be somewhat tempered by natural goodness. It was to no avail. Our final included night was at the excellent Intercontinental Le Grand Paris which unfortunately has scales in the bathroom. There was no hiding from the results of my enthusiasm to experience it all. That said, je ne regrette rien!
It was a fantastic trip and if you’re even a little tempted to ride the rails and enjoy a trip like mine, please contact me. I’ll be happy to answer all your questions.
Navigating the new era of couples therapy: insights from Duda Baldwin
WORDS MELISSA BARKS
In recent years, couples therapy has undergone a significant transformation. As societal pressures mount and gender roles evolve, more couples are seeking professional help to navigate their relationships. Duda Baldwin, a couples therapist based in Lane Cove, sheds light on this shift and the key issues couples face today.
The changing landscape of couples therapy
Gone are the days when couples therapy was seen solely as a last resort. Today, many couples, particularly those in their 20s, 30s, and early 40s, are turning to therapy as a preventative measure. ‘We need to normalise that couples are struggling and have issues,’ says Duda. ‘Newer generations come in at the early stages of problems, rather than waiting for a crisis.’
Others seek therapy due to the increasing pressures of modern life. Dual-career families, changing gender roles, and the demands of parenting are all contributing factors. ‘Parents are expected to be more present in their children's lives while having less time away from work,’ Duda explains. This can lead to friction in marriages as partners navigate these pressures together.
Communication:
the heart of the matter
One of the most common reasons couples seek therapy is to improve their communication. ‘Couples call because they need to communicate better, but they don't know how,’ Duda notes. Many couples find themselves arguing over seemingly trivial issues, like household chores, but the underlying problem is often a lack of feeling seen and heard by their partner.
Duda emphasises that the goal of therapy is to help couples understand that their disagreements are not actually about the surface issues. ‘Most people know what they need to say, they just don't know how to say it,’ she says. Therapy provides a space for couples to learn how to communicate effectively and understand each other's triggers.
The role of therapy
Couples therapy is dynamic and involves both partners working together. Duda uses the Gottman method, a research-based approach that focuses on enhancing relationship quality through effective communication and conflict management. She also draws on the work of Esther Perel, a renowned psychotherapist and author.
In therapy, couples learn that the ‘client’ is the relationship itself, not the individuals. The therapist acts as an advocate for the relationship, sometimes delivering hard truths that can be difficult to hear. ‘We use exercises that appear practical but go into deeper levels where people can learn emotional intelligence,’ Duda explains.
Cultural and societal influences
In our globalised world, cross-cultural marriages are common, bringing together different communication styles and family cultures. Duda highlights the importance of flexibility and seeking feedback from partners to ensure effective communication.
One prevalent point of conflict is the difference in how partners address issues. Some prefer to tackle problems head-on, while others avoid conflict. This dynamic can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of aggression. Therapy helps couples understand each other's attachment styles and the intent behind their actions.
Breaking the stigma
Despite the growing acceptance of couples therapy, societal views still lag behind. Duda notes that while people are eager to discuss therapy in private, it remains a taboo topic in many social settings. However, this is changing as more people seek support and refer friends to therapy.
The major reasons people come to see Duda include communication issues, managing conflicts, infidelity, and feeling unseen or unheard by their partner. ‘We should talk about couples therapy more openly and normalise discussing relationship struggles,’ she urges. It's a normal part of life, and seeking support is a sign of emotional intelligence.
Couples therapy is evolving to meet the needs of modern relationships. By addressing communication issues, understanding cultural influences, and breaking societal stigmas, couples can build stronger, healthier relationships. As Duda aptly puts it, ‘Talk to an experienced couples therapist who will guide you and give you tools to use in your relationship.’
West Chatswood Library: a local library with lots to offer
West Chatswood Library is Lane Cove’s neighbourhood branch of Willoughby City’s library service. Members can access a huge range of resources and benefits across Willoughby City Library’s six branches and digital library platforms. Membership is free and available to all NSW residents. Simply join by applying online and collect your library card after presenting proof of your name and current address.
Located on Mowbray Rd West, next to St Peters Aged Care, West Chatswood Library is a 10-minute walk from Mowbray Public School and conveniently situated for residents of the homes and retirement villages nearby. Enjoy the Library’s air-conditioned comfort, with free Wi-Fi and computer facilities. A separate meeting room and rear tables provide private, quiet spots for study or work.
The bright and spacious children’s area is enjoyed by kids, to read and play with toys or Lego. Being a small and quiet library, highly sought after kids’ books are often available.
Can’t find what you want? Reserve titles from any of the branches of Willoughby City Library and choose a convenient library for pick up. All reservations are free.
Regular events at West Chatswood Library
• Story Play (0-4 years) Thursdays, 10am - 10.30am Play, sing and hear stories at fun, free weekly sessions for babies, toddlers and preschoolers aged 0-4 years and their carers. Run by Library staff and students in partnership with TAFE NSW.
• Kids Create (5-10 years) First Wednesday of the month, 3:30pm – 4:30pm Craft and LEGO for 5–10-year-olds and their families.
• English conversation meet-up Saturdays, 10.30am – 11am during school term 4. Improve your English and meet new people! Suitable for intermediate level learners of English with minimum vocational proficiency. Students can converse with others in English on familiar matters regularly encountered.
• Justice of the Peace Tuesdays, 5:00pm – 6:00pm No bookings are required. For more times and locations, visit https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/Services/JPServices/JP-Services.
Duda Baldwin is a registered counsellor and couples therapist based in Lane Cove, offering face to face and online sessions in couples therapy, relationship counselling and coaching programs.
www. kickassmuse.com
• Book club Third Tuesday of the month, 3:30pm – 6:30pm Join like-minded avid readers for interesting discussions about thought provoking books. Borrow from Willoughby City Library’s book club kits of 10 copies of the same title. No cost involved. https://libraries.willoughby.nsw.gov.au/ Services/Book-clubs-and-kits
DEBBI, COURTNEY & THEIR FAMILIES HAVE JUST RETURNED FROM A THREE WEEK, FUN-FILLED TRIP IN CANADA & USA!
Flying direct to Vancouver with Qantas, Debbi then took a short connecting flight to Victoria where she spent 3 nights at the beautiful Fairmont Empress. The Fairmont Empress is located right on the harbour, the luxury hotel is known as Canada's 'Castle on the Coast' with stunning views of the water. During their stay they walked around the stunning Butchart Garden's, had a walk around Beacon Hill Park located in the city and enjoyed fresh seafood at Fisherman's Wharf watching the harbour seals!
The girls met up in Vancouver where they attended the Helloworld Owner & Manager’s Conference at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver. Owner & Managers gathered from all across Australia & New Zealand, with hundreds of travel suppliers, as well as an extensive Helloworld Executive Team where strategy, product, innovation & growth for the Helloworld brand were all discussed. Outside attending the conference, there was so much to do & see in the picturesque Vancouver. Like Sydney, the city is spread out and there are many areas to explore. The girls stayed at the Waterfront area of the CBD, within walking distance to many restaurants, cafes, shops and tourist attractions. The Vancouver Aquarium is a must, grab a coffee and sit in the sun and you could watch the cheeky seals for hours. The Aquarium is located inside Stanley Park where you can easily spend half a day riding a bike around the park stopping along the way for breakfast or lunch. Vancouver Lookout - take the glass elevator up 168 metres for a 360 degree view of Stanley Park, Gastown, the mountains, waterfront and vibrant downtown. You don't have to love heights to love this view and experience! Be sure to leave yourself
half a day to visit Granville Island, a taxi ride from the CBD or a short ferry. Wonder your way through the boutique stores and boat yard before popping into a local brewery or the local market hall which is filled with so many food & drink delights to sample - you won't go home hungry or thirsty!
Next stop – Disneyland, California! One of the happiest places in the world! With 4 jam packed days staying at the Disneyland Hotel and jumping between both the Disneyland Park and Californian Adventure Park, nothing was left to spare. Celebrating Debbi’s grandson, Max’s 8th birthday was a highlight where they thoroughly enjoyed a VIP host for the day - imagine no lines at any attraction, straight to the front of all character queues and finishing the day seeing Elsa, Minnie Mouse & her house and the main event Mickey! When booking the VIP experience, the Disney team can make reservations for front row seats at the night time show - Fantasmic! A light spectacular following the story of many Disney hero’s, this is an experience you must not miss.
To be a Disneyland visitor, you have to be savvy these days in order to maximise your experience throughout the day and minimise wait times. We would highly recommend the park hopper, lightning lane passes for this reason. This allows you to pre-book up to 2 attractions at a time, and move freely between both - Disneyland Park & California Adventure Park. If you want to take your ticket to the next level, you can add on the Premier Pass giving you even greater access to the front of multiple attractions. The days are busy, fun but can be long so when visiting be sure to visit Downtown Disney, where the girls can
make multiple recommendations for a nice margarita and a bite to eat! Or pop into a Disney store to get those Minnie Mouse ears!
Last stop – Hawaii!
For those of you who aren’t aware Hawaii is Debbi’s ‘happy’ place. And we couldn't argue otherwise, what is not to love?! The great food, the blue water, the friendly people, the turtles, shopping and more recently Waikiki beach’s latest recruits - seals! Hawaii is on the way home afterall…
Staying at the recently refurbished Outrigger Reef the girls find this hotel hard to beat. Located on the beachfront and only a short walk to the hustle and bustle of Waikiki main drag, the hotel has also opened a new waterfront restaurant Monkeypod Kitchen which is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or even a night cap at the bar! The Outrigger Reef offers club inclusive rooms and the value of the buffet breakfast and unlimited afternoon snacks with drinks is a must. Courtney & family were daily morning (and afternoon!) visitors of the Voyager Club where they could fill up on a substantial breakfast. The club is a perfect spot for the families to catch up at the end of the day, sipping on a ‘cocktail of the day’, snacking on substantial ‘pupus’ whilst watching the sun go down.
The girls were treated to Hawaii’s first resident show - Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Auana’. An incredible show located at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber, Auana celebrates the essence of the Hawaiian Islands, the Hawaiian heritage through combining vibrant colours, diverse textures, projections and incredible sounds. This really is a must when visiting Waikiki.
For those seeking a bit of retail therapy you can easily keep yourself
busy wondering around the shops of Waikiki, or nearby shopping mall Ala Moana or even venture to the fantastic outlets for a bargain. If you're interested in burning some calories the walk to Diamond Head which overlooks Waikiki Beach will give some of the best views. There are endless day trips to do - drive around the island, a helicopter ride over Honolulu or a visit to the Pearl Harbour Memorial site.
With endless restaurants to dine in, casual or fine dining you can easily eat your way around Waikiki or just keep it simple with an ABC store bought lunch on the beach! Be sure to be in Waikiki on a Sunday to experience the renowned Henry Kapono perform beachfront at iconic 'Dukes on Sunday', even 4 month old Luca was on the dance floor.
Hawaii is a fantastic place to visit all year around, even during their cooler months the average temperature doesn’t fall below 24 degrees. If Hawaii is on your list - we would love to help you and share our love of this beautiful destination!
The team at Helloworld Lane Cove all have extensive travel experience and knowledge, between our team –we have nearly covered the world! If you would like to discuss your future travel plans, please call or send us an email prior and we can make an appointment to kick start your plans. 02 9418 6866 lanecove@helloworld.com.au
Lane Cove West unveils new STEM classrooms
After many years of planning and fundraising, Lane Cove West Public School has officially opened their new Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) classrooms.
Funded through parent contributions and a donation from local business AirTrunk, the STEM classrooms will have a strong focus on High Performance and Gifted Education.
Relieving Principal Roslyn Gee said that the decision to build the new facility was the result of discussions with the P&C on how to best support the community.
“A number of parents work in the STEM field and made significant contributions and suggestions over the years.
“With this new facility, we are not just providing a space for learning, we are creating an environment where creativity thrives, curiosity is nurtured, and dreams take flight,” she said.
The two classrooms contain a wide variety of equipment, such as codable robots, Lego SPIKE Prime kits, 3D printers, and virtual reality technology.
Vinyl flooring in one classroom allows for more traditional science experiments, where mess is encouraged and robots can run smoothly.
Kelly Ashford, president of the P&C, said that the new classrooms were a culmination of 10 years’ of “passion,
perseverance and unwavering Lane Cove West Public School community spirit”.
“Importantly, they’ve been designed to empower generations of students to explore, innovate and thrive in a future shaped by science and technology,” she said.
One of the first groups of students to benefit from the new classrooms participated in workshops with Accenture, where they applied generative AI to storytelling, learnt about the responsible use of AI through a ‘reality quest’, and got hands on with virtual reality.
Two plaques were unveiled at the opening event, acknowledging the contribution of the P&C (past and present) and the donation from AirTrunk.
L>R: Relieving Principal Roslyn Gee, P&C President Kelly Ashford and STEM classroom teacher Michelle Quick, with Tyler Herrick, Yr4 and Lily Morgan Yr3, holding programmable robots created from Lego.
Lane Cove West PS community gathers for the opening of the new STEM classrooms.
From U.S. Air Force to alternative healing
Maggie Lawrence talks with Chatswood resident, Joshua Rasco about what led to his surprising career change from working in IT for the U.S. Air Force to studying and practising Bowen and craniosacral therapy in Australia.
Joshua Rasco was born and raised in San Diego, California. His father worked as a gardener and his mother was a dental assistant. As a teenager there was a time when he considered becoming a pastor or a minister. But his father and stepfather encouraged him to join the armed forces.
‘I never wanted to join the military,’ Joshua told me. ‘But I felt I didn’t have any other options and didn’t really know what I wanted to do, so I joined the U.S. Air Force straight out of high school.’
After boot camp Joshua trained for three months in Biloxi, Mississippi to become an IT apprentice, and continued to receive IT training and certification throughout his time in the military.
‘In hindsight the seven and a half years in the Air Force was the best thing for me. At that time the U.S. military was at its peak – one of the best run organisations in the world and highly trusted by the American public. Being stationed in Tokyo, Colorado, Northern California, South Korea and England greatly expanded my world view. I also had a sixmonth deployment to the Middle East in the lead up to the 2003 war with Iraq,’ Joshua said.
I was curious about what had sparked Joshua’s interest in considering a career in the healing profession, far removed from the work he had been doing in the U.S. military.
‘Whilst stationed in Tokyo at the age of 19, I became quite anxious being in this new military environment, away from my family and overseas for the first time. These circumstances catalysed an inner spiritual search. I came across different teachers online and began to meditate,’ he said.
‘One of these teachers lived in Australia, so at the age of 21 I took leave from my new assignment in South Korea and came to Australia to attend a 16-day retreat. I loved the retreat and Australia so much I came out again for a nineday retreat a few months later.
‘It was at the second retreat that I met my wife to be. We were married about 15 months later in England, my duty assignment following Korea.
‘She was a wonderful influence and beautiful calming presence in my life for which I am forever grateful. She
introduced me to both Bowen and craniosacral therapies for a shoulder issue I was having. I was so amazed during these sessions, not only for the resolution of my shoulder issue, but also for the deep sense of wellbeing I felt during and after.
‘It was then that I discovered what I really wanted to do. It finally made sense why, as a child, teenager and young man, I never really knew what this was – I hadn’t yet known about natural therapies. I still had about three and a half years left on my military enlistment, but after it finished, we moved to Sydney,’ Joshua told me.
A new career in healing
In 2004, six weeks after moving to Australia Joshua began learning Bowen therapy in Waverton. At that time the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) for Bowen therapy had not yet been established. He began practising in 2006 and received the Cert IV in Bowen Therapy and the Diploma of Bowen Therapy about a year or so later.
‘I originally setup my practice in Cherrybrook but have been on the North Shore since 2008. I have been at my current location in Roseville for nearly 10 years.’
Bowen therapy was developed by Tom Bowen from Geelong, Victoria. After serving in the second World War, Tom became interested in ways of alleviating human suffering. He was a very inquisitive and intuitive healer and began developing the technique in the 1950s to treat his wife’s asthma.
The effectiveness of Tom’s technique spread quickly and he established a full-time clinic in Geelong and continued to refine his work until he died in 1982. The 1975 Victorian Government enquiry into alternative health care professionals cited Mr. Bowen as seeing some 13,000 patients per year.
I asked Joshua to explain how what appears to be such a gentle treatment could have such a powerful healing effect on a wide range of issues.
‘Bowen therapy is beneficial for musculoskeletal conditions (e.g. painful backs, necks, knees, shoulders), as well as nerve
Joshua performs Bowen therapy on a client.
conditions, stress, chronic illnesses and more. It consists of precise rolling movements over muscles, fascia, tendons, nerves and ligaments. These moves gently stimulate the body to relax and realign itself,’ he explained.
‘There are pauses between each series of moves allowing the body time to process and integrate them. During the pauses, people often experience sensations such as warmth, coldness, tingling, pulsating or heaviness. These tend to correspond with the release of tight and adhered muscles and tissues (fascia), the calming of the nervous system, and improved flow of energy throughout the body,’ he added.
In 2018 Joshua started training in and practising another healing modality known as craniosacral therapy.
‘I had been wanting to learn craniosacral for many years, but the opportunity hadn’t arisen. There is such a depth to this therapy which I really love, particularly the biodynamic approach that I now practise. The stillness and being-tobeing connection of practitioner and client that occurs during a session allows for truly meaningful healing and health to emerge.
Listening to the intelligence of the body
Joshua explained that with craniosacral therapy the practitioner attunes to the inherent health or life force of the body, while also deeply listening to the tissues and structures, without intention or expectation. This allows the intelligence of the body to present what needs to be addressed in a session, rather than the treatment plan being based on practitioner diagnosis.
‘The most dramatic healing I’ve witnessed has been the profound inner change and transformation I have seen in people, which has been much deeper than purely physical healing. Many instances I won’t even try to explain or put into words. One dramatic example I will give though, is someone who had been in my meditation classes for a couple of years.
‘He originally came for help with mental health issues. After nearly two years he had only seen minor improvements in his mental health and patterns of behaviour. Then, before one class, he walked in and I immediately noticed a dramatic change, his energy was completely different.
‘He told me that a couple days earlier, while he was pondering what had been taught and shared in the last class, that he suddenly heard a loud crack inside his head. At that moment, all that he had been anxious and worried about just disappeared. He was no longer concerned with all that had been ruminating inside of him. And the wonderful thing was, that it was a permanent change within him. His whole perspective had changed,’ Joshua added.
As well as working with clients using either Bowen or craniosacral therapy, Joshua teaches meditation.
‘Teaching meditation came about organically when a Bowen client asked if I could teach her son one-on-one. That was 12 years ago now and since then teaching meditation has become an integral part of what I offer,’ Joshua said.
‘It has continued to grow and develop organically, from an inner inspiration and motivation to serve. I have found great fulfillment in seeing the change and transformation that happens for people who attend the courses, especially those who continue for one, two, even up to five years.
‘I now offer three eight-week meditation courses. Each week there are practises to help integrate the calmness and clarity achieved through meditation into everyday situations, decisions and interactions.
‘It dawned on me a couple years ago that by teaching meditation it was fulfilling the calling I had as a teenager to become a minister – but in a way I never expected and free from any religious affiliation.
‘My goal now is to continue to refine the healing work that I do and to reach wider audiences with the classes I teach. There is such a need these days. People are more stressed, anxious and distracted than ever. Stress release is not enough – people are looking for a more whole and integrated experience of themselves and life. This wholeness is already here; it just needs to be rediscovered. This is essentially what I am helping people to achieve,’ Joshua concluded.
Maggie Lawrence is a local author and screenwriter. You can visit her at www.maggielawrence.com
Joshua receiving his stripes as he is promoted to Staff Sergeant for the U.S. Air Force
Meet Cathy- Sales Manager for Amara Residences Seniors’ Living
Discover A Reimagined Approach To Seniors’ Living , Opening in Lane Cove 2026
Introducing Cathy Bennett, the Sales Manager at Amara Residences. Cathy brings with her 20 years of experience in operations and sales across all types of Retirement Living. With a passion to match individuals with their perfect home, Cathy has the knowledge and understanding to guide people through the Retirement Living selection process with confidence and reassurance.
You have extensive experience in Seniors’ Living What drew you to the field?
I’ve worked in Seniors’ Living for over 20 years across operations and sales, which gives me a unique skillset, being able to clearly and honestly describe how Amara will work once opened, to any prospective resident. I’m drawn to the chance to help people find the right lifestyle. At Amara, I am confident that what is being offered, will be what is delivered. I walk the journey with each resident from first enquiry to move-in day and beyond.
What excites you most about the upcoming opening of Amara Residences?
Seeing a high-quality, thoughtfully designed retirement option come to life in Lane Cove, allowing residents to continue living in the community they know and love. At Amara, we’re offering a beautiful lifestyle with firstclass amenities, exceptional services, and all the support you may need as you age, right where people want to be.
What can future residents look forward to when it opens next year?
Amara has been designed to offer a vibrant and independent lifestyle. Residents can enjoy a hotelstyle environment with beautiful shared spaces and a range of included services, including a gym, cinema, workshop, and even a golf simulator.
Whether residents want to stay active or relax, it’s their choice. From tai chi, walking groups and outings, a community bus and transport for medical appointments, Amara offers a flexible lifestyle that’s as social or independent as you like.
What kind of environment and community should residents expect at Amara?
From pre-move-in events to a dedicated Concierge Team, we’re fostering connection from day one. With shared spaces like the cinema, bar, and spa facility, Amara offers a warm, welcoming lifestyle full of ways to connect.
You’ve spoken to many prospective residents. What are they looking for?
They want life to be easy, enjoyable, and secure, with
Cathy and Claire have over 40 years joint experience in Seniors’ Living and Residential Aged Care.
Cathy can’t wait to welcome the first residents through Amara’s front doors!
Cathy Bennett is passionate about reimagining Seniors’ Living.
‘’A high-quality, thoughtfully designed retirement option come to life in Lane Cove, allowing people to stay local in a community they know and love.’’
services that support wellbeing like our gym and sauna. They also value the sense of community, quality finishes, storage cages for convenience, and of course, peace of mind about future care. It’s all about comfort, flexibility, and staying close to what they love.
Tell us about Pathways Longueville Wellness and Retail Hub. How will this enhance daily life for Amara residents?
Just a short walk away, residents at Amara will have easy access to Pathways Longueville amenities. These include services such as the a Hydrotherapy Pool, Gym and Pilates Studio, Medical Centre, Café, Hair
Salon, Pharmacy and Grocery Store, bringing everyday essentials to your doorstep.
What value does Amara’s connection to Pathways Longueville offer?
Living at Amara ensures you will have priority access to Pathways Longueville Aged Care Residence should your needs change.
What’s most rewarding about helping people move to Amara?
It’s a big step, but seeing someone go from uncertainty to excitement and thrive in their new home is truly rewarding. I’m honoured to be part of that journey.
Lane Cove has consistently been recognised as one of Sydney’s most liveable suburbs. What makes it a great location for seniors?
Lane Cove is fantastic, with beautiful parks and waterways, The Canopy, local library (which even delivers to Amara), and a great shopping precinct. There’s always something to do, and people love the lifestyle. That’s why so many want to stay in the area, and now, they can!
For those still deciding if Amara is right for them, what advice do you have, especially for those planning ahead and wanting to maintain their independence?
Come and see what Amara has to offer. The lifestyle, the support, and the quality of the residences are exceptional, with complete flexibility until movein and a 90-day settling-in period. Plus, securing now gives you certainty and keeps your options open.
For more information about Amara Residences, scan the QR code or email Cathy Cbennett@amararesidences.com.au or call 1300 266 260
Amara Restaurant and Lounge
Avoiding tax time mistakes
Australia’s largest accounting body, CPA Australia, has shared its advice on avoiding some common tax time mistakes.
Don’t rush
While taxpayers might be patting themselves on the back for their organisational skills, CPA Australia’s Tax Lead Jenny Wong says one of the biggest and most common mistakes taxpayers will make is rushing to lodge their returns early.
Last year, about three million individual tax returns were lodged by July 23, soaring to 5.8 million by August 20, data from the ATO shows.
‘Cost-of-living pressures could mean some people are eager to lodge their tax return as quickly as possible to access a refund, but it’s important to be patient, gather your evidence and claim everything you are entitled to,’ she said.
‘There’s a misconception that lodging early means you’ll receive your refund first, but it’s not as simple as that. It’s common for people who lodge early to end up having to amend their returns later anyway, so it’s best to wait. It’ll save you in the long run.'
Don’t copy and paste from last year
Ms Wong says another common mistake people make is not giving enough thought to how their circumstances have changed over the past 12 months.
‘Some people go into autopilot when they do their tax returns,’ she said. ‘They cut and paste from their last return and fail to consider any changes to their personal circumstances.
‘Turn off the autopilot and take time to seriously consider what’s different about your expenses this year and think about what you could claim.
‘Maybe you travelled more for work and were not reimbursed by your employer for meals or other travel essentials. Or maybe you started a new job where you had to buy tools, subscriptions, or pay for training and security clearances, for example.
‘Check what type of expenses you could claim that are relevant to your type of work. The ATO has a comprehensive guide to industry and occupation types. We strongly advise against using AI advice when preparing your tax return.’
Don’t exaggerate your work expenses
Ms Wong reminds taxpayers not to exaggerate workrelated claims.
‘Getting your tax return right is your responsibility,’ she said. ‘This means declaring all of your income and claiming the appropriate expenses.
‘Failure to properly declare your income increases your chances of being audited by the ATO. Failing to claim everything you’re entitled to means less cash back than you could otherwise get.’
CPA Australia encourages taxpayers to consider seeking professional advice with their returns, especially if they have complex finances and earning activities such as owning rental properties and crypto assets. This cost is itself tax deductible.
CPA Australia’s tips to help complete your tax return are:
1. Out of pocket? Any out-of-pocket work-related expenses could be tax deductible, but you’ll need evidence in case you are asked in an audit. Think about what you’ve had to purchase for work. Check your bank statements.
2. Find the evidence. Hopefully your receipts aren’t down the back of the couch, but they might be in your emails and phone apps. Or maybe the junk drawer?
3. Consider your working from home expenses. You may be able to claim expenses such as internet costs and printing ink and paper, so long as they can be legitimately attributed to work use.
4. Methods matter. Which work-from-home expense type makes most sense for you (fixed rate or actual cost method)? If you’ve been good at keeping records throughout the year, the actual cost method may be more beneficial.
5. Using your car for work? For vehicle expenses, you must be able to identify and justify the percentage that you are claiming as business use. To claim accurately, you will need to use a logbook or diary to show private versus business travel.
Council Update July 2025
Merri Southwood, Mayor of Lane Cove E: msouthwood@lanecove.nsw.gov.au
Mayor's Message
I am excited to announce the appointment of Louise Kerr as the new General Manager of Lane Cove Council. With 30 years of experience in the local government sector, Ms Kerr brings a wealth of experience to Lane Cove across a wide range of services including urban planning, development assessment, economic development, regulation, project delivery, and strategic financial management.
We are excited to have someone of this calibre coming on board to lead our organisation. I look forward to working with Ms Kerr as we embark on the next chapter for Lane Cove. I'd also like to take the opportunity to thank Mr Steven Kludass for the dedication, leadership and ongoing support he has provided in the interim period.
Recently I was privileged to attend the 28th year of the Children’s Voices for Reconciliation event. It is a very proud, long standing Lane Cove tradition, and I hope if continues for long after I am gone. A big thank you to Karen Smith for hosting and to everyone else who was involved.
Coming into school holidays, Winter magic is arriving in Lane Cove, and we have a range of theme nights at our
Lane Cove Art Society invites all Australian artists to enter the prestigious 2025 Lane Cove Art Award. The acquisitive 1st prize is $15,000 (sponsored by Lane Cove Council) as well as a $1,000 Recommended Prize (sponsored by Centrehouse).
The finalists' exhibition will be held at Gallery Lane Cove from Wednesday 17 September - Saturday 4 October with opening night on Friday 19 September. You won’t want to miss it!
Entries are now open and close Sunday 3 August. Scan the QR code for more info and how to enter!
Lane Cove Roll-a-round from 4-13 July. I hope to see you there or enjoying some of our other great school holiday activities, from Bush Kids events to Library events, to our movie night at The Canopy.
And following adoption of the 2025/26 Operational Plan at our June Council meeting, we are getting ready to deliver a range of exciting projects over the next year. Some highlights which might be happening near you include:
• Stringybark Reserve Masterplan Implementation Works
• 14 Gay Street & 347 Burns Bay Road – demolition of buildings and associated works
• Playground Equipment Upgrades – Marjorie York & Charlish Park
• Blackman Park – Fitness Equipment Replacement
• Kingsford Smith Oval – Part Fencing Replacement
• Innes Road Embankment Works
• Ventemans Reach Boardwalk Works
• Finalising works associated with Lane Cove North Speed Reduction Program
YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED AT OUR JUNE COUNCIL MEETING AT: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/meetingwrapup
Have Your Say on Dunois Reserve
Dunois Reserve is a valuable community space and home to an ecologically sensitive Saltmarsh and Estuarine Swamp Oak Forest. This endangered habitat protects the land from erosion, helps manage floodwaters with sponge-like soil, supports rich biodiversity, and improves water quality by filtering pollutants.
Unfortunately, human activities like mooring boats on the saltmarsh, attaching vessels to trees, or dragging anchors can cause serious and often irreversible damage.
Council is calling on the community to share their thoughts through a short survey. Your input will help create a balance between recreational use and environmental protection, ensuring that Dunois Reserve remains a thriving sanctuary for people and wildlife alike. Join the conversation and help shape the future of this beautiful reserve! Closes 14 July.
You can view this and all other open consultations at: haveyoursay.lanecove.nsw.gov.au
What’s on Lane Cove July 2025
Bob Campbell Oval is now open
We are pleased to announce that the first stage of upgrade works at Bob Campbell Oval are now complete, and the following new and improved facilities are available to enjoy:
• Children’s playground with swings and adventure play equipment
• Picnic shelters and two electric BBQs
• Fitness equipment
• New access stairs to the bay
• Public toilets in the new amenities building
• At the northern end of the park there is a shared area that can be used for off-leash dog exercise
Please note that the sports field remains closed to allow the newly laid turf to properly establish.
The playing field is expected to open in early Spring 2025. To help keep everything on track, we kindly ask that the field not be used before it’s ready, as any premature use could delay the opening.
Second Hand Saturday
Saturday 16 August
Do you have some second-hand treasure collecting dust? Host a garage sale in the Lane Cove Council area on Saturday 16 August and we will help make it a success! Register your sale with Council to get free advertising that helps shoppers
discover your treasures. It’s a fun way to promote reuse, make extra cash, and bring the community together. We encourage households, schools, churches, and community groups to join.
Don’t miss these chances to declutter, support sustainability, and join in the fun. Start prepping today and give your items a second life! Register at: www.lanecove.nsw.gov. au/secondhandsaturday
MARK YOUR CALENDARS:
FRIDAY 4 JULY –SUNDAY 13 JULY
Lane Cove Roll-A-Round Skate Rink in
Running over ten days and ten nights, The Canopy is hosting a winter roller rink complete with themes, DJs, lights, and prizes for best dressed!
10:00AM – 8:45PM COST: $10 INCLUDING SKATE HIRE
SUNDAY 12 OCTOBER
Rotary Fair and Sustainability Lane
Once a year, we shutdown the Lane Cove village roads so that Rotary Club of Lane Cove and Lane Cove Council can host a huge street party with stalls, rides, a sustainability showcase and much, much more!
9:00AM – 4:00PM FREE
SATURDAY 25 OCTOBER
Jellybean Jam in
Celebrating 32 years in the industry, stalwart Sydney cover band, Jellybean Jam will be bringing the party to The Canopy stage with their versions of classics and soon-to-be-classics.
6:00PM – 9:00PM FREE
SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER
Food and Wine by the River
The premier food event in Lane Cove, run in partnership with the Mudgee Wine Region, featuring food stalls, regional produce and family-friendly entertainment in the picturesque surrounds of Burns Bay Reserve.
This year, we’re cranking up the fun and partnering with Sydney Fringe for the first time. By partnering with NSW’s biggest arts festival, Lane Cove will be firmly placed on the cultural map, inviting visitors and locals alike to explore all that our amazing community and cultural spaces have to offer
MOST EVENTS ARE FREE! Over 50 events happening around the LGA, stay tuned for more details!
LAUNCH EVENT:
FRIDAY 05
SEPTEMBER
Lane Cove Festival @ Sydney Fringe will combine our long running community festival with NSW’s largest arts festival in a celebration of music, theatre, dancing and other creative activations throughout the village to kick off a month of local, national and international acts!
SUNDAY 14 SEPTEMBER
Lane Cove Festival: Lane Cove Fun Run
Organised by volunteers on behalf of the Lane Cove Public School P & C, this is a great community event to get involved with as well as supporting a local public school.
5KM: 7:30AM, 2KM: 8:30AM
COST: CHILD $35-$45, ADULT $45-$55, FAMILY $140
FRIDAY 26 SEPTEMBER
Lane Cove Festival: Taylor Swift Eras Tribute in
Come and see an encore of the sold-out Taylor Swift concert tour that visited Australia last year and caused mayhem! All-ages!
6:00PM – 8:00PM APPROX.
COST: $18 + BOOKING FEE
WEDNESDAY 17 SEPTEMBER – SUNDAY 4 OCTOBER
Lane Cove Festival: Lane Cove Art Award
Established by artists, Lloyd Rees, Guy Warren, William Pidgeon and Reinis Zusters, the Lane Cove Art Award is one of Sydney’s longest running community art prizes. Celebrate the incredible talent of Australian artists showcasing bold, beautiful and thoughtprovoking works from across the country.
GALLERY LANE COVE
FREE
SATURDAY 8 NOVEMBER
Noasis in
One of the definitive tribute bands to Manchester’s Oasis, Noasis will get everyone in The Canopy to Listen Up and Stop Crying Their Hearts Out…about missing out on tickets to the real deal!
6:00PM – 9:00PM
COST $15 + BOOKING FEE
3RD SUNDAY OF EVERY MONTH
Makers Markets
Lane Cove Makers Market offers a wide selection of original products and hand-crafted items you’re guaranteed to love at The Canopy & Lane Cove Plaza.
FREE
What’s on Lane Cove July 2025
COMING
UP AT:
Blak Douglas Chair Activation
Sunday 6 July
10:00am - 5:00pm
As part of the Gai-mariagal Festival, join us at The Canopy to mark the start of NAIDOC Week as we display a 2m tall chair painted by Blak Douglas over a decade ago.
Got a hidden talent? Come and try your performance at Open Mic Night, contact Russell on 0411 827 571 to make a booking.
Makers Markets
Sunday 20 July
9:00am - 3:00pm
Explore the stalls and find something new at the markets held on the third Sunday of each month.
Chatty Chairs
Tuesdays 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 July 10:00am – 12:00pm Lane Cove Library
Come along to Lane Cove Library’s Chatty Chairs and enjoy an opportunity to meet new people and build community. All are welcome, no bookings required.
Book Sale
Wednesday 9 July from 9:30am Lane Cove Library
Come along and pick up some great bargains at our book sale, located in the library foyer while stocks last. No bookings required.
Author Talk with Linda Royal – The Star on the Grave
Thursday 10 July
6:15pm – 7:30pm
St Leonards Library
Join author Linda Royal as she discusses her remarkable debut novel The Star on the Grave — a riveting historical tale inspired by the true story of Japanese diplomat Chiune Sugihara who defied his government to save thousands of Jewish refugees during WWII, including Linda’s own family. Books will be available for purchase on the night.
Sunday 20 July 9:00am – 1:00pm Lane Cove Council Car Park
Sell your preloved goods or find a bargain at the Rotary Car Boot sale! Apply for a car space at lanecoverotary.org or just drop by to snag a bargain!
National Tree Day
Planting activities
Sunday 20 July - Woodford Bay: 1:00pm - 3:00pm and Sunday 27 July - Aquatic Park: 9:00am - 11:00am
Help plant native shrubs and groundcovers in July as part of National Tree Day events all across Australia! This year Lane Cove's tree day events will be spread across two weekends at smaller reserves, to support the ongoing work of our Bushcare volunteers.
These planting activities suit all ages, please wear enclosed shoes and BYO gloves. Council will supply tools, light refreshments and will also have some spare gloves available.
For more details and to RSVP: Call 9911 3579 or email bushcare@lanecove.nsw.gov.au or go to www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ bushcarevents
In Conversation with Rosalie Horner –Waltzing Mathilde: Letters to a Little Girl
Tuesday 15 July 6:15pm – 7:30pm Lane Cove Library
Join author, presenter and journalist Rosalie Horner as she shares the story behind her fictionalised novel Waltzing Mathilde, based on letters and diaries from a young girl’s voyage to Australia in 1890. A fascinating glimpse into history and family legacy.
Books will be available for purchase on the night. Bookings essential www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/library
What’s on Lane Cove July 2025
Bush Babies
What’s for Lunch
Tech Topics – Introduction to AI
Friday 25 July 10:30am – 12:00pm Lane Cove Library
Join Murali Dharan for a monthly five-session series exploring the uses of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Sessions include presentations and hands-on activities. No prior knowledge needed. Please attend all five sessions. Bookings required: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/library
Travel Writing Workshop with Briar Jensen
Saturday 26 July 2:00pm – 4:00pm
Lane Cove Library
Join freelance travel writer Briar Jensen for a workshop designed to help aspiring writers craft compelling travel stories. This workshop is perfect for those considering entering the Lane Cove Literary Awards 2025. Bookings essential: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/library
Moments in Music – The Savoy Operas
Wednesday 30 July 10:00am – 12:00pm
Lane Cove Library
Join local musician Graham Ball for a musical tribute to W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan, whose witty and tuneful works laid the foundation for the modern musical.
Join our Lane Cove Writers in Residence group who meet monthly to share stories, discuss creative writing ideas and writing methods. No bookings required.
Lane Cove Literary Awards 2025
Entries close Wednesday 20 August
Lane Cove Library
A national writing competition recognising writing excellence and supporting Australian writers aged 16+. Submit unpublished works in categories including fiction, memoir and poetry. For conditions and entry forms, visit: www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/library
January - February - March
Pouches, eggs, live birth - there are lots of ways babies grow in the Australian bush. We’ll learn about animal babies, read a story, go on a bushwalk and get creative with nature craft.
What are some of the shapes and colours of the Australian bush? Come along on a bushwalk to see what we can find, have a bush explore and do some nature craft.
Lane Cove Bushland Park, meet at far end of Panorama St Fungi lead mysterious lives. Join us with your older children to go on a more challenging and longer bushwalk into beautiful Lane Cove Bushland Park. We’ll look for fungi, do some ephemeral art and play some nature games. For ages 6 to 12 years.
Once Upon a Time
Friday 14 & Wednesday 19 March 9:45am – 11:15am Tambourine Bay Park, Tambourine Bay Rd, Riverview
www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushkids
Thursday 10 July 9:45am – 11:15am. Tambourine Bay Park
Spending time in nature can encourage creativity. We’ll be going on a bushwalk to create our own story with words, natural items and pictures. For ages 5 to 12 years.
Bookings & going on an activity:
Science in the Bush
www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushkids
Friday 11 July 9:45am – 11:30am. Tambourine Bay Park
Let’s have some fun outdoors in nature with science. We’ll write our own hypothesis, try some experiments and take a close-up look at nature on our bushwalk. For ages 5 to 12 years.
Winter Wander
Bookings and tickets for both adults and children are essential for all www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushkids or on Eventbrite. Activities are for 2 to 5 years term time and 3 to 12 years school holidays, Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Adults are responsible Most activities are not stroller friendly.
Wear closed in shoes (runners or hiking shoes).
Tuesday 15 July 9:45am – 11:30am. Tambourine Bay Park
Lane Cove Council reserves the right to alter or cancel activities. Wet or inclement weather – if cancelled, participants will receive a text activity . Safety on all our activities is always considered, however participants risk
We’ll explore Warraroon Reserve to see what we can hear and see — and let nature inspire our creativity. For ages 4 to 12 years.
Further information – www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushkids or www.facebook.com/lanecovebushkids
Nature Explorer
Wednesday 16 July 9:45am – 11:30am. Blackman Park, meet at far end of Lloyd Rees Dr – past the playground
On a bushwalk, expect the unexpected! Who’s nesting, calling or checking us out? We’ll use our senses to make nature discoveries. Come prepared to be an explorer! For ages 4 to 12 years.
Mimic of the Bush
Thursday 17 July 9:45am – 11:15am. Tambourine Bay Park
Who’s the mimic of the bush? Lyrebirds! Learn about these feathered superstars and hear a lyrebird story. We’ll go on a bushwalk and make our own lyrebird to take home. For ages 5 to 12 years.
www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/bushkids
Blackman Park (far end of Lloyd Rees Dr - past the playground),
Eczema
When I was a late teen, I recall seeing a friend’s skin and asking why it looked the way it did. ‘It’s my eczema’ she replied. At my puzzled look, she asked incredulously ‘you’ve never heard of eczema before?’
‘Nope’ I replied sheepishly, frantically trying to spell the word phonetically in my head, ‘I can’t even spell it!’
Fast-forward to present-day, and with a few medical degrees (and an expanded vocabulary) under my belt, thankfully I now know more about this condition which affects nearly three million Australians, making it one of the 10 most common health conditions in Australia.
Eczema (also known as atopic dermatitis) is the commonest chronic inflammatory skin condition worldwide. It is a disease that affects all ages, genders, ethnicities and socioeconomic backgrounds, affecting over one third of Australian children aged under six years old, often first presenting around 3-6 months of age. Whilst many cases are restricted to childhood and adolescence, it is estimated around 25% of these will persist into adulthood.
Whilst not a deadly condition, eczema can have significant life impacts –associated with pain, severe sleep disturbances, mental illness and poorer quality of life. Children with eczema have been shown to be at greater risk of being developmentally vulnerable at school entry. School and work-day absenteeism is common, including also impaired work productivity.
Though not fully understood, eczema is a condition that is thought to be caused by both genetic (often family members are also affected) and environmental factors. There is currently no cure. Therefore, I emphasise to my eczema patients that control of the symptoms and minimising triggers is the main objective of managing their problem. Symptoms include skin erythema (redness), itchiness and rough, dry, flaky skin. The damaged skin
does not retain moisture very well, becoming dry and itchy which leads to scratching. Scratching gives temporary itch relief but the skin counterintuitively becomes more itchy, which is known as the perpetual ‘itch-scratch’ cycle! The constant scratching can cause the skin to weep and bleed, making it more vulnerable to infections, skin thickening and hardening.
By association, up to 30% of eczema sufferers will develop other allergic conditions, such as food allergies, asthma and hay fever. Evidence continues to show that food allergies do not cause eczema. Well-meaning parents often try to manage their child’s eczema by way of foodelimination diets. Unfortunately, this will not work. Furthermore, eliminating food groups completely from one’s diet can ironically lead to the severe allergies one was trying to avoid in the first place, as a child’s growing body does not get acclimatised to that specific food from a young age. Here are my top three tips for management:
1. Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise. At least twice daily over the whole body (not just the affected areas). A minimum total of 125 grams
(infant), 250 grams (child), and 500 grams (adult) is needed weekly. The moisturiser brand does not significantly matter, though sorbolenecontaining products can cause stinging. Jar moisturiser preparations are preferred over pump packs which are weaker (contain more water). Use a clean spatula or spoon to scoop out the total required amount at each use to prevent bacterial hand contamination.
2. Know (and avoid if possible) your triggers. Common triggers include dry weather (ie winter season), changes of weather, overheating, stress, being unwell (like a simple common cold), mould and household pets. Showers should be kept under three minutes and not too hot (a big ask at this time of year!). Baths can be longer if medication oils are added. Use liquid non-soap cleansers only. Avoid multiple layers of clothing due to the trapped heat. Wool should not be worn (or ideally not directly on the skin) as it is too abrasive. Once weekly hot water washing of bed linen, and carpet vacuuming/ floor-board mopping is needed to combat dust. Grass, sand (particularly sandpits) and chlorinated pools are also common irritants. Picnic rugs, wearing long sleeve loose clothing,
Dr Carl Wong is a Lane Cove-based GP and sits on the board of Sydney Community Services.
showering immediately after the pool and even embalming the skin with a greasy moisturiser prior to pool-use can help.
3. Treat flare-ups early and aggressively. The primary and best treatment is with corticosteroid creams and ointments. Under good medical supervision, they are perfectly safe and will not cause skin pigmentation changes or skin-thinning (common myths and misconceptions). In fact, loss of pigment is due to the severe inflammation of the untreated eczema itself which resolves over time once treated. Ointments are more moisturising, penetrate deeper and are less stinging compared to creams. But ointments are thicker and feel heavier on the skin, and therefore creams are often more suitable in summer and better tolerated for the face.
DO NOT use steroids sparingly (another common myth and mistake) – use enough to cover the area adequately. I recommend first applying steroids onto the skin before the moisturiser. When applying the steroid, think of the eczema flare as a raging house-fire. It would be futile to use a garden hose (ie weak steroid) to control it. Instead, bring out the big fire truck (strong steroid) – it will put out the eczema fire usually within a few weeks, and you’re done. Just as you wouldn’t skimp on using water to extinguish a fire, nor should you be timid in using steroids on damaged skin. This intensive, regular, aggressive treatment will result in quicker results and overall less topical steroid use. Keep the weaker steroids (hydrocortisone) for delicate areas (eyelids, neck folds, armpits, genitals) and also sometimes use these twice weekly as maintenance if re-flares occur quickly. If a flare has not improved within a week, seek your doctor for further care.
Approximately 20% of eczema sufferers have severe symptoms and will benefit from more advanced treatments such as wet dressings, and newer injectable medications.
Therefore, whether your symptoms are mild or very severe, it is important for sufferers to know that there are lots of treatment options, and there is always something that can be done to control and manage this common condition.
The library is the place to be this HSC season
With trial exams looming and the HSC just around the corner, local year 12 students will be hitting the books in coming weeks.
We are spoilt for choice with study spaces and HSC resources in our local libraries, supporting students and their families.
Ryde Library is continuing its Ryde the HSC Wave Study Sessions, designed to equip students with the mindset, strategies, and tools to excel academically and beyond. It’s an opportunity to gain valuable insights for study success, while also utilising the library spaces and access to their huge range of HSC resources.
Each study session includes a dynamic talk by Modedu - a leading private education company supporting hundreds of students across Australia on their journey from primary school to university success.
The topic in July is Goal SettingPlanning ahead: defining success, goal setting and career planning. During the study session, enjoy access to:
• Study spaces
• Free Wi-Fi
• HSC resources such as past papers and study guides
• PAWS Pet Therapy dogs drop-in for pats
• Refreshments such as sushi, snacks, and drinks
• Chill-Out Zone for relaxation
• Plus, all attendees will get a chance to win a lucky door prize - drawn at 8.30pm
- Friday, 25 July 2025 5.30pm-9pm (attendees must arrive before 6pm)
- Ryde Library, 1 Pope Street, Ryde
- www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/Library
- Free event. Bookings are essential.
Stanton Library is hosting Study and wellbeing for parents, an educational talk for parents and carers on the impact that studying can have on the wellbeing of young people, and vice versa. This seminar, presented by Relationships Australia in English and Mandarin, aims to help parents learn how to support their high school teens, including study hacks and self-care strategies. Parents will also explore the importance of sleep, diet and exercise on the brain.
• English-language: Level 1
• Mandarin-language: Conference Room, Level 2
- Wednesday 23 July 2025 6pm-7pm
- Stanton Library, 234 Miller Street, North Sydney
- www.northsydney.nsw.gov.au/ library
- Free event. Bookings essential. Light refreshments will be provided.
Lane Cove Library provides a range of study spaces and dedicated HSC resources, including the HSC Guides & Notes collection, comprising subject and study guides for each of the HSC subjects. Guides including 'Excel', 'Get Smart', 'Wizard', 'Leading Edge', 'York Notes', 'Insight' and 'Macquarie'. This collection is available for students to borrow. The library also has a range of online databases, including past papers and notes from the Marking Centre.
- Lane Cove Library, Library Walk, Lane Cove
- ww.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ Community/Library
Lane Cove resident awarded NSW Poetry Prize
Dr Rob Anderson has been awarded the NSW Poetry Prize 2025 – Third Place for his poem
A Memorable Bush Dance.
NSW Poetry Prize is a grassroots competition with the aim of giving a voice to creators and lovers of poetry. After weeks of judging and shortlisting over 100 entries by a panel of 10 esteemed judges, Head Judge, Lou Steer, awarded A Memorable Bush Dance third place from a top 20 list of finalists, commending the poem for its originality:
‘The poet's encounter with a red bellied black snake becomes a mythical event, dancing with death, initially attracted, then repelledwith a lucky escape. This poem stands out for both its interesting form as a concrete poem echoing the dance steps (and the mysterious partner's own form) across the page, and for the hints of both attraction and menace in the dance between the poet and their mysterious partner, who may be death personified in their "blood red tartan under their jet-black gown”.’
Dr Anderson has been a resident of Lane Cove for 35 years and is a member of the active Lane Cove Poetry Group, which meets in Lane Cove Library on the last Monday of every month to share and discuss regular, themed poetry challenges. He is also a dedicated wildlife photographer, and these experiences provide inspiration for many of his poems.
A Memorable Bush Dance*
I strode carefree around the rocky outcrop and faced my partner, relaxed and poised, waiting silently for no-one but me, macabre in a striking, long, black, silky gown, glistening in the warm autumnal sun, a stark contrast to the dusty brown earth.
Piercing dark eyes met mine like lasers, we were close enough to touch, adrenaline surging,
heart drumming
and suddenly wet with sweat, all sound soared to a crescendo.
My partner raised their head, I gasped, cried out and sprang back, I hadn’t meant to threaten, one, two hops to the right, as my partner swerved right, I was caught out of step.
One, two skips to the left, my partner swayed then veered left with lightning speed, I jumped right, then left, then right. So close.
Would we connect?
But I was no match in speed and rhythm, and my agile dance partner fled in seconds, flaunting a blood red tartan under their jet-black gown and tongue flicking a welcome kiss goodbye.
No need for me to call, “au revoir”, as this dance lesson will last a lifetime.
A Memorable Bush Dance / NSW Poetry Prize 2025 / 31st March 2025
* First published by NSW Poetry Prize
Lane Cove Historical Society
WORDS BY PAM PALMER, LCHS PRESIDENT
The $1,500 LCHS Lane Cove History Prize - now open!
Whether it’s a family history, the history of an important building, or a story of our local community, we are always curious about our world and our place in it.
The aim of the LCHS Lane Cove History Prize - valued at over $1,500 – is to encourage people to write the story they have always wanted to tell, or were intrigued to research more about.
Under-18s are encouraged to enter for the Student Prize with an essay, video or audio project that appeals to their interests.
• Entries close on 31st August.
• For more information, visit www.carisbrookhouse.com/LCHS/historyprize
‘At the Podium’ - our monthly Guest Speaker program
Lying as it does between the Coral Sea and the Araluen Sea, the Torres Strait has strong and hazardous currents, and it is a dangerous area to navigate, as many of our early sailors discovered.
A new book, Dangerous Passage, tells the maritime history of the Torres Strait and its author, Ian Burnet, is our speaker for July.
He has written a number of books reflecting his interest in the history of Australia and South-East Asia.
$5 includes wine and cheese (free for members).
• Tuesday 22 July, 7pm - 9pm at Lane Cove Library.
• For more information, visit www.carisbrookhouse.com/events
Open House and Devonshire Tea
What was life like for people back in the 1880’s?
For the opportunity to experience the different lifestyle and architecture of the Victorian Era, visit Carisbrook Historic House on Burns Bay Rd.
The House is curated by the Lane Cove Historical Society and open on the third weekend of every month (except December).
For a unique day out, enjoy Devonshire Tea or coffee and cakes in the garden courtyard and take a tour of the Historic House.
• Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th July, 10am - 4pm
• For more information, visit www.carisbrookhouse.com/events
Pymble Players present Agatha Christie’s Spider’s Web
Pymble Players, one of Sydney's most enduring and successful community theatre associations, has a new home at Chatswood’s Zenith Theatre. In July, they’ll be presenting the Agatha Christie classic Spider’s Web.
There is tension and laughter in equal parts in this intricate plot of murder, police, drug addicts, invisible ink, hidden doorways and secret drawers.
Clarissa, wife of diplomat Henry Hailsham-Brown, is adept at spinning tales of adventure but when a murder takes place in her drawing room, she finds live drama much harder to cope with. Desperate to dispose of the body before her husband arrives with an important politician, she enlists the help of her guests. Hilarity ensues when they are interrupted by the arrival of wry detective, Inspector Lord. Now Clarissa must keep the body hidden, convince the sceptical police inspector that there has been no murder, and, in the meantime, find out who has been murdered, why, and what the body is doing in her house.
‘Spiders Web, which debuted on the West End in 1954, is Agatha Christie's second longest running play to The Mousetrap (the longest running play in history) and is one of my favourite plays. It has everything I love in a Christie; murder, intrigue, hidden identities – and, of course, a few twists,’ says Director Georgia Drewe.
• Performances: 4-12 July 2025
• Venue: Zenith Theatre and Convention Centre, Cnr McIntosh St and Railway St, Chatswood 2067
• Bookings: https://pymbleplayers.com.au/tickets
Georgia Drewe
Acornsky’s Flowers
by Belle Biscotti
Patsy Cheung approached the counter, one hand perched pleasantly on her belly - for she was thirty-one weeks pregnant - and the other cradling a basket of potted posies. There were two customers behind her and three more shopping around. Muffled voices issued from the TV in the storage room, punctuated by the crackle-drum of rain on the roof.
“Is that all for today?” Mr Acornsky asked, and scratched his neck.
“Yes, thank you,” said Patsy. She tapped her card on the reader.
When the reader beeped, Mr Acornsky put the seven pots into a carry bag and printed a receipt. The total came to just $34.93. The reason why his flowers were so cheap was because his couriers bypassed customs and quality control. Mr Acornsky did that work himself, without all the chemicals and manhandling.
He gave Patsy the bag and told her to stay safe in the rain.
The man next in line stepped forward. His sodden sleeves had been rolled up to the elbow. He had a lovely selection of waratahs, banksia and kangaroo paws under his arm. “Could I get these wrapped?”
“Of course,” said Mr Acornsky. He made for the cellophane and ribbon. He clipped the stems, arranged the flowers on the table, then wrapped it all into a bouquet. The cellophane crinkled nicely.
“Do you have any sunflowers?” the man asked.
“Sold out, unfortunately. Would you be interested in some gerberas? Fresh from a beautiful farm near the Murray River. They’ve been a huge hit, but there’s still plenty left.”
“Alright. I’ll get a small bunch.”
Rubbing his nose, the man glanced at
the price card. “Actually, make it a large.”
So Mr Acornsky went to the gerberas and plucked a big handful of red, orange and yellow from the bucket. He saw a small flying bug on one of the petals, and blew it off. Those critters were no harm; caterpillars and snails were the real problem, but he made well sure there were none of those here.
By the time Mr Acornsky returned to the counter, the tip of the man’s nose was bright red and bulging. He scratched it with one slender finger and requested gift wrapping for the gerberas. Mr Acornsky got another square of cellophane and fixed the second bouquet.
“Thank you very much,” said the man. “Have a good afternoon.”
Four people in line now. The umbrella bin by the entrance was full. Mr Acornsky welcomed newcomers at the door, then he typed in the next customer’s purchase. It was Dr Alexis Scott with her step-son. She had set a vased orchid on the counter and was now madly swatting something out of her face. Her hair was matted to her forehead, her neck welted with red.
“I saw your husband the other day,” Mr Acornsky said. “White gerberas.”
“Yes, that’s right,” replied Dr Scott. “He’s at home today. Caught some nasty bug. I’m here to get flowers for Nan.”
“Is she still in hospital?”
“Yes.”
Mr Acornsky bagged the orchid and scratched his wrist. “Please send my regards.”
“Thank you. And by the way, your shop is absolutely beautiful.”
Next in line was a boy in school uniform. Droplets of rain pebbled his
cheeks. There was a five-dollar bill scrunched in his left fist.
“Hello,” said Mr Acornsky.
“Yeah, hi. Can I get one of those birthday flowers?”
“You sure can. What colour would you like?”
“Blue.”
“We don’t have blue at the moment.”
“What about orange?”
“Of course. And would your friend like a choccie or a lolly with that?”
“Uh, chocolate.”
In the next moment, Mr Acornsky was back by the gerberas, rubbing his chin with his shoulder. He picked out a brilliant orange gerbera and took it to the counter. Then he put it in a cellophane cone, along with a Caramello Koala, and handed it to the young schoolboy.
The boy gave his five-dollar bill and received two dollars in change.
“Thanks,” he said. He tucked the flower under his blazer and left.
He had no umbrella and was immediately swept away by the downpour. The door banged shut, letting in the smell of wet leaves and coffee from the patisserie across the road. Rain pelted the windows with directionless ferocity.
Over the next hour, Mr Acornsky worked at the counter wrapping bouquets, clipping stems, dethorning roses, and occasionally mopped the floor. At the end of the day, he called one of his customers to confirm their high-volume order for tomorrow. They had requested three hundred decorative flowers for a wedding: a selection of native flowers, traditional roses, anything bright and colourful. There was no fuss. They expected delivery by 9 am and complete arrangement by midday, before the 175 guests arrived.
Picking the rough patch behind his ear, Mr Acornsky decided the deal was good to go. He set down the phone and went to the storage room, where his wife was watching the news.
“I’ll make some tea,” he said, “for that headache of yours.”
“Thank you, hon. I’m almost finished with the bills.”
Mr Acornsky brought out two mugs and got the kettle boiling. Faintly behind him, he caught the news reporter’s voice: …outbreak has reached Australia. Thirteen cases have been reported in NSW in the last two weeks. Japanese encephalitis is a rare but potentially fatal infection. Symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, and, in worse cases, paralysis or coma. The prevalence of this mosquito-borne virus is estimated to skyrocket over the wet season…
Mrs Acornsky rose from her seat and scratched the small of her back.
“Oh dear,” she muttered.
“Best to stay indoors.”
“Mm.”
Mr Acornsky slumped into a chair and sipped his hot peppermint tea. He fixed his eyes on the news, tired from another long day. He was, in fact, so exhausted that he didn’t notice when something black with wings alighted on the back of his hand.
George Papallo OAM to helm Eisteddfod 2025
Opera-lover, musician, seasoned administrator and longtime CEO of Macquarie Community College, George Papallo OAM has been appointed to chair Ryde’s 2025 Eisteddfod. Mr Papallo said it was a real honour to be elected chairman of the Ryde Eisteddfod Committee.
‘I was CEO of Macquarie Community College and for ten years the College was proud to be the Platinum Sponsor of the Ryde Eisteddfod. We shared the love and deep respect for music that the Eisteddfod brought to Ryde City and its surrounds. Even in the few weeks I have been involved with the Committee I marvel at the commitment and dedication of the volunteers and supporters who make this amazing Program possible.
‘May I welcome you all to another year of the Ryde Eisteddfod. Of uplifting performances in music, speech, dance and drama. Our audience is a huge part of any performance – so please spread the word to your friends and colleagues that there is treasure trove of entertainment in Ryde over the months of July, August and early September.’
For more information on Eisteddfod 2025 please visit www.re.org.au.
Ryde EISTEDDFOD 2025
Competition for all ages and disciplines
July 18,19,20 & 25 & 27 Ryde Eastwood Leagues Club
SENIORS (50+) VOCAL
10
PHONE ENQUIRIES: Call Suzanne Maslen on 9874 2809
POSTAL ADDRESS: PO Box 1073 Ryde NSW 1680 facebook.com/ rydeeisteddfod @rydeeisteddfod
100 WORDS
Mark Lee to feature in Shakespeare’s trilogy
In July, the Sydney Shakespeare Company will presen the Australian premiere of William Shakespeare’s Henry 6 trilogy. These are the plays that launched Shakespeare’s career and went on to inspire Game of Thrones. Including famous and infamous characters such as Joan of Arc, Talbot the Terror of the French, Warwick the Kingmaker, Margaret the Warrior Queen, and a clash of kings from pious Henry 6, to impetuous Edward 4, to infamous Richard 3, this is a bloody slice of history that promises to be a unique theatrical event.
Selections of the plays have been previously cut together and performed under different titles, but this will be the first time in Australia all three plays will be performed the way Shakespeare intended. They can be seen individually, or all in one day on August 2.
When the astrophysicists confirmed a 99.7% likelihood of life on another planet, Milton was determined to be the first to set foot on its surface.
Telling no one, he boarded his titanium rocket, blasting into the inky, black abyss of deep space. Hurtling at light speed, into the Leo constellation and avoiding asteroids, he eventually landed on K2-18b.
The landscape was strikingly similar to Earth, yet uniquely beautiful. After a thorough exploration and ready to declare, “mission accomplished” somewhere in the distance, he heard someone singing, “What a Wonderful World” followed by girlish giggling and shouting, “Take up space!”
Perihan Bozkurt, Lane Cove
Once … I nearly crashed a plane. We flew from Kenya to the UK every two years for home leave. On one such trip, between Entebbe and Khartoum, the captain invited my sister and me into the cockpit. Margaret went first, then it was my turn. On my way back, we hit an air pocket and dropped out of the sky like a stone. I hit the ceiling. I thought I was going to die. When I eventually crawled back to my seat, my unsympathetic mother shouted “What did you do that for? You could have got us all killed!”
John Lee, Cammeray
Do you have a 100 word story?
Email: editor@thevillageobserver.com.au
Directed by Artistic Director, Steven Hopley, the epic production will feature a cast of 30 playing over 150 characters across the cycle. Legend of stage and screen, Gladesville's own Mark Lee, will join the cast, playing Lord Talbot "the Terror of the French" in the first part of the trilogy. The play looks at the power vacuum caused by the ascension of nine-month-old Henry 6 to the throne, and pits Talbot against Joan of Arc and her French rebels.
• Henry 6 runs from July 10 – August 2
• Flow Studios, 57 Denison St, Camperdown
• Bookings: www.sydneyshakespearecompany.com
Flavours of Lane Cove brought to you by Lane Cove Public School P&C
From our home to yours here are our recipes
Simit (Turkish Bagels)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 1/4 cup lukewarm water
• Pinch salt
• 1/2 cup grape molasses
• 1 tsp powder yeast
• 4 1/4 cups flour
• 100g sesame seeds
• 1 tbs water
1. Mix sugar and yeast with lukewarm water. Wait for 5 min for the yeast to activate
2. Add flour to make the dough. Knead the dough, hitting it against the bench. You're wanting the dough to be as smooth as possible
3. Roll the dough into a ball, put it in a bowl and cover with a towel. Let is rest and rise for an hour
4. When the dough has risen, cut it into 5 balls. Roll out each into a long thin snake and make it into a circle
5. Lightly toast sesame seeds in a pan
6. In a separate bowl combine molasses with water, mix it thoroughly
7. Dip your unbaked simit in the molasses/water mixture and then roll it in toasted sesame seeds. Do this with all your dough circles
8. Preheat the oven to 220 degrees C and bake for 2530 min.
Afiyet olsun! (Turkish for "Bon Appetit!" or "Enjoy!") Simit is best served with cream cheese, fresh toma-toes, cucumbers, olives all drizzled in olive oil.
Happy cooking and eating!
Flavours of Lane Cove is a unique community project in collaboration with more than 100 parents, teachers, and staff of LCPS, as well as many local businesses, including Sydney Community Services, which have been supporting the P&C at LCPS in different ways.
The cultural and language backgrounds of the school families is becoming increasingly diverse, and this cookbook provides an opportunity to celebrate this diversity through the power of food
Copies of the cookbook are available to purchase for $30 each, or four for $100.
I think I’m at that stage of winter where I just can’t wait for Spring already!!! We have had some freezing days and the lap blanket has already lost the novelty feeling for me haha…I am super jealous of everyone just jetting off for summer weather!!! I have nothing booked at all for the winter unfortunately, but thank goodness there is no budget constraints with armchair travel!!!!
This month I took myself off to the foothills of the Italian Alps with The Palazzo by Kayte Nunn and it was perfect!!!
The novel revolves around newly widowed beauty entrepreneur Vivi Savidge; she is celebrating her 40th birthday and flies out friends and family to celebrate at The Palazzo (as you can imagine…I even adored that aspect of the story; this is a spare no expense, pass the champagne/The White Lotus style novel, absolutely what I was after!!!!)
Sure ‘all the characters are killers, but in this novel only one will resort to murder’ but what I was completely there for was all the great eating, drinking and lounging around…I was completely there for the ‘platters of ciabatta rolls stuffed with salami, tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella and basil’ being brought out to the pool by the hot chef hahaha. It made a perfect change from my already cold tea and boring couch….
I thought I had guessed victim/killer/motive ten times over, this is a really plotty twisty novel that I thought was fantastic…talk about ‘pose as a friend, work as a spy’!!! Was it the jealous friend? The entitled younger sister? Ex colleague? Awed assistant? I LOVED how it really could have been anyone dead and they absolutely all could have been the murderer!!! I could not turn the pages fast enough!!
I know Kayte Nunn as a historical fiction author but really enjoyed The Palazzo. The setting was exactly what I wanted, the characters so complex and real. I really hope you are after some armchair travel too and you love The Palazzo as much as I did!
Books I’ve been loving recently:
All the Perfect Days Michael Thompson
Speak to Me of Home Jeanine Cummins
My Friends Fredrick Backman
Rise and Shine Kimberley Allsopp
When Nothing Feels Real Nathan Dunne
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
Lane Cove Literary Awards
Entries are now open for the Lane Cove Literary Awards, a prestigious national writing competition organised by Lane Cove Council that recognises writing excellence and fosters Australian writing talent. Australian writers over 16 years of age are invited to submit unpublished works.
Prizes will be awarded in the following categories:
• Short Story Prize $2,000
• Poetry Prize $1,500
• Travel Story Prize $1,500
The following additional prizes may be awarded:
• The Burns Bay Bookery Residents Prize $500
• Synergy Youth Prize (16 – 24 years) $500
• WAIG Women Writers Prize $500
• Wise Sage Prize (65+ years) $500
Entries close at 5pm Wednesday 20 August 2025. Visit https://www.lanecove.nsw.gov.au/ Community/Library for more information.
Street Paws Festival
Bring your pooch and head to The Diddy (Longueville Sporting Club) on Sunday 27 July for a fun filled day of market stalls, competitions and more.
SCHEDULE:
• 10.30am: Talk by our sponsor Advanced vet care
• 11am: Competition - Our special dog. Is your dog a senior, a dancing dog or a famous trickster? come along and show us their skills
• 12 midday: Competition - Best rescue dog
• 1pm: Talk by our sponsor Advanced vet care
• 1.30pm: Competition - Cutest pooch Entry and competitions are free of charge. Sunday 27th July, 10am - 2pm
The Diddy, cnr Kenneth St and River Road West, Longueville
CAR BOOT SALE
SUNDAY 20 JULY 2025
Sunday 20 July 2025
Art installation and workshops feature in North Sydney’s Gai-mariagal Festival
The installation features two works:
• Weaving Sky Stories: Madjam nguna (Flying fox sleeping) (2025), crafted from eucalyptus wood, fibre, wire, and mixed media, displayed on the Inside Outside Sculpture Plinth.
• A window wrap on the Ros Crichton Pavilion showcasing Weaving Sky Stories (2025), made from synthetic polymer and raffia on canvas.
Together, these works honour First Nations cultural knowledge and deep connections to Country.
Complementing the installation, Dr Keft will host two free community workshops on Sunday 6 July:
• Imprints of Country - a hands-on printmaking session using native plants to create custom-printed tote bags.
• Weaving Connections - a weaving and yarning circle where participants craft their own woven mirinj (star) while sharing stories and culture.
‘The exhibition speaks to the core theme of the Gai-mariagal Festival - Legacies for Future Generations. It speaks to continuity and care of Country as a shared responsibility - to carry stories, to promote resilience and to uplift our voices as a guiding force for future generations,’ said Dr Keft.
Dr Virginia Keft is a multi-awardwinning interdisciplinary artist and a proud Muruwari woman based on Dharawal Country (Wollongong, NSW). Her practice spans weaving, textiles, sculpture, painting, and installation, focusing on themes of nature, home, and cultural connection. She is also the Producer of bangawarra Art Yarns: for older and Elder mob at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia.
The Gai-mariagal Festival runs until 13 July, offering free film screenings, workshops, art installations, and
As part of the 2025 Gai-mariagal Festival, North Sydney Council presents Weaving Sky Stories – an installation by Muruwari artist Dr Virginia Keft located in Ted Mack Civic Park. FOR FULL PROGRAM DETAILS AND BOOKINGS, VISIT: northsydney.nsw.gov.au/ gai-mariagal
children’s activities throughout North Sydney. Aligned with National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week, and NAIDOC Week, the 2025 theme Legacies for Future Generations celebrates the enduring knowledge, creativity, and strength of First Nations communities.
Dr Virginia Keft, Weaving Sky Stories: Madjam nguna (Flying fox sleeping), 2025
TVO Cryptic Crossword July 2025
BY GARIBALDI
by Garibaldi
ACROSS DOWN
Insects say nothing (8)
Encourages Ange to leave football club (5)
Manly fan disrupts trial and lives (10)
Hurry up with the ironing! (5,2)
Large Gold Coast or Tennessee footballer (5)
Old Amsterdam (3,4, 4)
Where you might find a pot of gold (3,2,3,7) 60's pop star who might be found on the beach (5,4)
Belfry cricket equipment (3)
Radical dieter is quicker (6)
A different approach to 13 down (5) (and 31 across, 30 Down). Timeliest hook leads to Monroe classic (4,3,2,3) A place to get clean (5)
See 28 Across
June 2025 solutions
Insects say nothing (8)
Encourages Ange to leave football club (5)
Manly fan disrupts trial and lives (10)
Hurry up with the ironing! (5,2)
Large Gold Coast or Tennessee footballer (5)
(5)
Close to you and Top of the World duo included in Parents records (10)
007's Australian Cousin? (6,4)
One of the Waughs (4)
All things being equal I will enter the party (6)
Criticise the Sunday lunch (5)
Old Amsterdam (3,4, 4)
JUNE 2025 SOLUTIONS
Where you might find a pot of gold (3,2,3,7)
60's pop star who might be found on the beach (5,4)
Belfry cricket equipment (3)
Radical dieter is quicker (6)
A different approach to 13 down (5)
(and 31 across, 30 Down). Timeliest hook leads to Monroe classic (4,3,2,3)
A place to get clean (5)
See 28 Across
Extra time for a donkey is valuable (5)
The night before for Adam's wife (3)
(And 9 down ) Auf, Wiedersehen, Goodbye. Not Short (2,4)
See 8 Down
Climbs Tor. Finds decay (3)
Manticore cut up for burning ceremony (9)
Titanic lunching spot at Bondi (8)
(and 20 Down) Where footballer George might live in Lane Cove (4,6)
Marsupial about to take on a Lion (7)
See 17 Down
Bare nearly all to live (3)
Autumnal drop (4)
Sydney Sixers initially assess Large Book sent to me (4)
Forster's Firsters (1,1)
See 28 Across
Need a hand with home maintenance and your garden?
We're here to help.
A well-maintained home is not only more comfortable—it’s also safer.
If you are aged 65 and over (or 50 and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples), Sydney Community Services is here to support your independence by helping you keep your home and garden in great shape.
From small tasks to larger jobs, our team can assist with the things that make your home safer, more accessible and truly feel like your own. And our gardening services are designed to improve safety and accessibility for eligible clients, helping you make the most of your outdoor spaces. Contact My Aged Care today to access this service.
Here are some of the Home Maintenance jobs we can help with:
• Dripping taps
• Replacing lightbulbs
• Replacing batteries in smoke alarms
• Pressure cleaning of paths
• Gutter cleaning
• Window washing
• Minor plumbing
• Minor electrical
Our Gardening Services can include:
• Pruning small, lowhanging tree branches that impede access (safety conditions apply)
• Targeted weed removal
• Apply mulch (client to source mulch – conditions apply)
• Raking to ensure clear access
• Disposal of green waste in council recycling bin
• Horticultural advice
HOW TO ACCESS
THESE SERVICES:
1. Call My Aged Care for an assessment/ referral code:
P: 1800 200 422
2. Contact us and speak with one of our Coordinators. Learn about the cost involved and the funding option that best suits you, and what we can and cannot offer.
P: 8459 7178
E: support@sydneycs.org
A MESSAGE FROM BRANKA IVKOVIC, CEO
Caring for Our Community: Aged Care Reform Delayed, But Change Is Still Coming
Many of you will have heard that the introduction of the new Aged Care Act, originally scheduled for 1 July 2025, has been postponed to 1 November 2025. While this extension may offer some breathing room, it’s important to understand that reform is still underway, and changes to how aged care is accessed, delivered, and funded are gradually taking shape.
As the CEO of Sydney Community Services - a local, notfor-profit provider delivering aged care through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) - I’d like to take a moment to share what these developments might mean for you, your family, and our broader community.
From 1 November 2025, the new Support at Home program will begin replacing the Home Care Packages (HCP) and Short-Term Restorative Care (STRC) programs. These changes are part of the Government’s broader response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, aiming to create a system that is person-centred, respectful, and accountable.
The CHSP - which many of our clients currently usewill remain unchanged until at least 1 July 2027. This means your current service arrangements and contribution structure will stay the same for now.
The Support at Home program is intended to streamline the current home care system, offer more consistent and coordinated services, improve transparency and funding arrangements, and strengthen accountability across providers.
It will also introduce a new client co-contribution model, designed to make the system more sustainable while recognising people’s capacity to contribute to the cost of their own care.
Under the proposed model:
on the National Priority List before 12 September 2024 will not pay more than they currently do.
As a CHSP provider, Sydney Community Services has always worked on a client contribution model that is not means tested. This approach will remain in place for our clients until at least July 2027.
We understand that any change in how aged care is delivered or funded can be unsettling. We also recognise the government’s intent to build a fairer and more sustainable system.
However, we are also mindful of concerns raised by care providers. We join an alliance of concerned providers such as NovaCare, Your Side Australia, Proveda, MWP Care, Focus Care, JobQuest, and Hornsby Ku-Ring-Gai and Central Coast Community Transport, voicing their concerns about the new model. We want to ensure that people do not opt out of essential support services due to cost, which may inadvertently increase their risk of social isolation, health decline, or premature entry into residential care.
Sydney Community Services remains committed to helping our community adapt to these changes with confidence. We’ll continue to host information sessions, provide one-on-one guidance, and ensure our clients and their families have the facts they need to make informed decisions.
If you are currently receiving a Home Care Package, we encourage you to speak with your provider to clarify what these changes might mean for you.
To stay informed:
Visit Department of Health, Disability and Ageing –Support at Home features or call on 1800 020 103. www.health.gov.au/
• Clinical services, such as nursing, podiatry, and physiotherapy, will remain fully funded by the government.
• Contributions for independent living services (like showering, home modifications) and everyday living services (like shopping, cleaning, and gardening) will vary depending on income and assets.
It’s important to note that these changes will only apply to new care recipients. There is a ‘no worse off’ guarantee: anyone who was receiving a Home Care Package or was
• Book a face-to-face appointment with the Aged Care Specialist Officer at Services Australia office by calling 1800 227 475 or visit Aged Care Specialist Officer for free advice.
• Call the Older Persons Advocacy Network (OPAN) on 1800 700 600 or visit Support at Home Costs. www.opan.org.au/
As always, our team is just a phone call away: Sydney Community Services Call: 9427 6425 Email: support@sydneycs.org
Money Management & Budgeting Basics
JOIN AN EXPERT FACILITATOR WHEN THE FOLLOWING TOPICS ARE COVERED:
⊲ How to budget ⊲ Positive money habits
⊲ Preparing for work ⊲ The true costs of a car
⊲ Keeping your credit safe (afterpay)
DATE: Wednesday 16 July 2025 TIME: 4.30pm LOCATION: 44 Gladesville Rd, Hunters Hill
Stretch, breathe, and unwind with Sinead Costello, yoga and wellbeing expert, at a community class designed for Greenwich locals.
This gentle session blends mindful movement, breathwork, and deep relaxation, all in a space that’s friendly, inclusive, and open to everyone over 55.
WHEN: Every Wednesday, 11.30am - 12.30pm. COST: 7-week term at $12 per session, or $17 per casual visit.
Christmas in July 2025
ENJOY A COMPLIMENTARY GLASS OF BUBBLES ON ARRIVAL
Enjoy good food, good company, and a bit of festive cheer — without the December rush!
Join us for a traditional three-course Christmas lunch - yes, with all the trimmings! There will also be some light-hearted Christmas trivia fun.
WHEN: Tuesday 15 July 2025
TIME: 12pm - 2pm COST: $40
WHERE: Sydney Community Services, 1 Pottery Lane, Lane Cove
Limited local transport available
several positions
If you’re passionate about supporting older Australians and want to make a difference in our community, we’d love to hear from you!
Read more, the job descriptions, how to apply, and why you should consider joining our team.
For questions please contact: P | 9427 6425 E | support@sydneycs.org
WHAT’S ON JULY 2025
Yoga on Wednesdays
Join Sinead Costello, an experienced yoga/ wellbeing specialist, in our yoga class. Lane Cove, 9.30am - 10.30am. Greenwich, 11.30am - 12.30pm.
Movement Matters
Monday, 10.30 - 11.30am
Tuesday, 12 - 1pm and 1.15 - 2.15pm.
Wednesday, 11.15am - 12.15pm
Friday, 9.30 - 10.30am and 10.45 - 11.45am.
Contact us to register and for more information.
Book Club
1.30 - 2.30pm. Mon 21 July Cost: $5 incls. book and afternoon tea.
Mah Jong
Tuesday, 9.30 - 11.30am.
HOURS OF OPERATION: 8.30am - 4.00pm Mon - Fri www.sydneycs.org
Wednesday, 1.00 - 3.45pm. Cost: $5 including morning/afternoon New players please contact us: E: support@sydneycs.org
Scrabble
Thursdays, 10am - 12noon
Cost: $5 incl. morning tea.
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
Tuesdays and Thursdays
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
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
Cost: $5 incl. afternoon tea.
Seniors Social Support
Afghan, Chinese, Iranian, Italian, and Spanish seniors groups. Each group is supported by bilingual staff and volunteers 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
Costs indicated are for Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) participants only. Contact us and speak with one of our Coordinators to learn more about other funding options.
Seniors Hub
Seniors Shopping Bus
groups. volunteers to Social celebrations, activities
ENQUIRIES AND BOOKINGS FOR ACTIVITIES: 9427 6425 support@sydneycs.org
Social Tennis Group
Join us every Thursday at Lane Cove Tennis Club, Central Park, Kenneth St, Longueville. Cost $5. Every Thursday 9-11am All players must register prior to playing – please call Julie 9427 6425.
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. E: hheggie@sydneycs.org
Meeting House Playgroups
0-5 years, 9.30am-11.30am Meet local parents and children
TUESDAYS AND THURSDAYS: Arts, Craft, Music and Story Playgroups
TERM COSTS:
- $10 per casual visit
- $60 per term/one session p/w
- $100 per term for multiple sessions
P: 9003 1399 E: support@sydneycs.org
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
reACTIVATE
Fitness Solutions for Seniors
Join Andrew Fisher, for a series of functional fitness classes.
COST: First class free, then pay by term: 10 week term $120 ($12 per class)
VENUE: Meeting House Hub, 23a Stokes St, Lane Cove North. CONTACT: P: 9427 6425 E: support@sydneycs.org
You're invited to a delicious Italian Luncheon at The Meeting House – buon appetito and good company guaranteed! Wednesday 27 August More details coming soon.
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. E: support@sydneycs.org
A place to meet for people living with dementia, their family and friends.
Wednesday 16 July, 10am - 12pm
Special 'Christmas in July' lunch.
Where: The Meeting House Hub, 23a Stokes Street, Lane Cove North P: 9427 6425 E: support@sydneycs.org
ANTHONY ROBERTS MP
P: 9817 4757
E: lanecove@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Lane Cove Sporting Committee
Lane Cove is home to one of the most vibrant and community-oriented sporting cultures in New South Wales. Our open spaces are not only well maintained but also thoughtfully shared, this is because of the outstanding collaboration between local clubs and volunteers. From weekend matches to week-night training, the energy and commitment of our sporting community are ever-present.
Over the years, these clubs have united under the Lane Cove Sporting Committee which is a volunteer-led body that coordinates field use, logistics, and liaises with Council to uphold the quality and accessibility of our sporting facilities.
The committee addresses a wide range of needs, from large-scale capital works like field resurfacing to routine upkeep including mowing, fertilising, and basic ground repairs. This behind-the-scenes work is vital to maintaining the high standards of our community’s sporting environment.
We owe a great deal to the clubs that form the backbone of this collective effort. These organisations do more than foster athletic ability, they nurture resilience, discipline, and teamwork in our young people.
Through the highs and lows of competition, children learn life skills that shape character. These lessons are only possible through the tireless efforts of coaches, team managers, referees, umpires, and the many volunteers who register players, coordinate teams, and operate canteens and barbecues week after week.
In particular, the Lane Cove Football Club has seen a significant growth in female membership, a trend celebrated during its annual initiative ‘Female Football Week’, that recognises and promotes the achievements of women and girls in football. This surge reflects the inclusive, welcoming spirit that defines grassroots sport in our community.
The Lane Cove Sporting Committee is a testament to what can be achieved through local cooperation. It ensures every sport is fairly represented, every child can play, and that sport continues to serve as a cornerstone of community wellbeing.
In this technological age, sport remains one of the most powerful forces for authentic human connection. Local initiatives like the Lane Cove Sporting Committee not only support physical activity but also foster social bonds. Thanks to the dedication of those who lead, volunteer, and support our local clubs, Lane Cove remains not just a place where sport is played, but where it is truly celebrated.
P: 9952 8222
E: TMayor@ryde.nsw.gov.au
A busy winter in Ryde
Winter school holidays arrive this month and, as usual, the City of Ryde has families and kids covered when it comes to some great activities designed for fun and learning.
City of Ryde Libraries are theming their holiday program around ‘Big Adventures, Little Heroes’ with a number of fantastic activities aimed at the budding superhero in your home.
They include Drop-in Superhero Wristband Craft Workshops on 7, 8, 16 and 18 July, where attendees can use the superhero symbols we’ve provided or create your very own to make superhero wristbands with all kinds of powers.
There are also JECKA building Workshops on 8, 9, and 15 July, as well as a Minecraft Movie Workshop on 9 July, a Superhero Pot Plant Workshop on 14 July, a Drawing Workshop on 14 July, a CSI Forensic Science Workshop on 15 July, and a Banjo Superhero Storytime on 16 July.
And don’t forget our popular Comic-Con at Ryde Library on 17 July, when Spiderman and Wonder Woman will swing in to launch the event at 10.00am, followed by a series of super-powered activities.
For all the details, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/LibraryProgram
NAIDOC Week, from 6-13 July, is another important event on Council’s calendar and we’re proud to join the celebrations recognising the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
You can support and get to know your local Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities through activities and events held across the country, including City of Ryde’s Libraries, which are holding a series of NAIDOC-themed events and workshops.
These include Nowey Boat Making Workshops, an Aboriginal History Talk and Bushfood Tasting, a Warurabunga Weaving Workshop, and a performance by the Walangari Diramu Aboriginal Dance and Didgeridoo Company.
For full details, go to: www.ryde.nsw.gov.au/NAIDOCWeek
We’re also taking part in the annual Plastic Free July, with two Beeswax Wrap Workshops being held at Ryde Library on 5 July at 11.00am-12.00pm and 2.00-3.00pm, teaching you how to make amazing re-usable wraps to keep your sandwiches and snacks fresh without plastic.
Finally, we’ll be unveiling a Korean War Memorial and hosting a Flag Raising Ceremony at Memorial Park, Meadowbank on 27 July from 2.45pm to commemorate the Armistice of the Korean War.
Over 17,000 Australians, including almost 100 Ryde-born residents, served during the Korean War between June 1950 and July 1953, of which 340 were killed and over 1,200 wounded.
The Village Observer
TRENTON BROWN CITY OF RYDE MAYOR
TIM JAMES MP
P: 9439 4199
E: willoughby@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Sydney’s train and bus networks are lurching from one crisis to the next and sorely letting us down. The T1 North Shore Line is now the worst performing in Sydney with barely 80 per cent on-time running. A single incident can bring down the entire network and bad weather inevitably leads to delays. Our buses are no better with daily cancellations leaving passengers stranded and timetables are a fiction. We’ve constantly been late to work, school and appointments. We don’t need a token fare free day or yet another review. The NSW Government needs to get on with fixing these services once and for all.
I’ve been working every day to put pressure on the government to fix our bus services. The buses are state owned and it is on the state government to ensure there are sufficient buses available to the bus operators to meet timetables. This has not happened and is why cancellations persist. I’ve worked hard on solutions with government and have been told they are coming but they are being rolled out too slowly. We need more buses on the road now.
The Sydney Metro City extension will soon celebrate a year of operation. The Metro has proven the value of modern, reliable, turn up and go transport. On-time running has been close to 99 per cent and commuters have voted with their feet. A consequence of this success however has been overcrowding at stations such as Crows Nest. To keep pace with growing demand I am calling on the procurement of additional carriages to begin now so the Metro can move from four-minute to two-minute frequencies, thereby doubling capacity. This is essential whilst the government pushes for high density development that will pour tens of thousands of new residents around existing stations.
I’m not convinced that bus routes in the area are optimal and meeting our needs and I’m calling on the return of routes such as the 267 and more convenient and frequent feeder routes into local centres and stations. I welcome your feedback on what routes would be valuable for you.
You deserve a transport system that works. That’s what I’m standing up for - for more metro capacity, for a reliable train service and for buses that arrive on time.
ZAC MILES HUNTERS HILL MAYOR
P: 9879 9400
E: mayor@huntershill.nsw.gov.au
Spring Garden Competition entry
I’m pleased to announce this year’s Spring Garden Competition and the opportunity to showcase the beauty and creativity of our local gardens. Entries are now open until Friday 17 October. This annual event celebrates our suburb’s prestigious reputation as Australia’s oldest garden suburb and encourages residents to display their gardening talents in both private and public spaces.
The competition is free to enter for all residents within the Hunters Hill local government area. It features seven categories to highlight different gardening styles and efforts including:
• Overall best garden: With help/ without help
• Best small balcony and courtyard garden
• Best native inspired ‘habitat-friendly’ garden
• Best streetscape garden
• Best beautified or maintained public space
• Best school garden
Gardens will be judged by a panel of professional horticulturists, with prizes including cash awards, plaques, and certificates.
Judging will take place between Monday 20 October to Thursday 23 October, with winners announced at a presentation night on 30 October.
Following the awards, an Open Garden Day will be held on Sunday 9 November where the public can tour the winning gardens and other iconic local gardens, supported by a hopon, hop-off bus service.
Funds raised from the competition will contribute to the maintenance and restoration of the historic Hillman Orchard, a vital community green space adjacent to Vienna Cottage. For more information on how to enter, visit huntershill.nsw.gov. au/Spring-Garden-Competition
This event promises to be a highlight of the year for garden lovers and the broader community.
Plastic Free July
Council has joined this year’s Plastic Free July, highlighting our commitment to a cleaner community.
Plastic Free July is a global movement that empowers individuals and organisations to reduce single-use plastics and protect our local environment. I encourage everyone to take part by making small, practical changes.
Residents can access Council’s Sustainability @HOME program via huntershill.nsw.gov.au/sustainability-at-home Through this initiative, Council has partnered with Good for the Hood to offer free access to a range of sustainable living workshops. The @HOME online portal provides practical resources, live webinars, and expert advice on topics such as waste reduction, composting, and mindful consumption. This hub is designed to help you introduce sustainable habits at home and beyond.
Reducing our reliance on single-use plastics is a simple and powerful way to protect our waterways, parks and streets. Every step we take contributes to a more sustainable future for Hunters Hill.
I invite all members of our community to join us in this important initiative and be part of the solution this July and beyond.
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.
TVO ADVERTISING
For all advertising enquiries please email: advertising@thevillageobserver. com.au
1 July – Fisherman’s Friends (2019) British comedy/drama about Cornish fishermen, their lives and their singing, set in beautiful Port Isaac. A ‘feel good’ film based on a true story. Starring Daniel Mays, James Purefoy and Dave Johns.
5 August – The Way, My Way (2024) Australian drama telling the story of one man’s journey walking the 800km Camino de Santiago ‘one step at a time’. Starring Chris Hayward.
Bookings essential on 9428 4287 or 9427 4740. Cost $15.
Best value pizza/movie combo ! BYO drinks.
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.
Services and activities for older people, people with a disability, migrants, parents and those who are homeless or at risk.
Phone: 9439 5122
Connecting Our Community crowsnestcentre.org.au
Crows Nest Centre
Photo Keith Saunders TUESDAY 11th March 2025 7.30 p.m.
Concert - Windfall Quintet
Concert celebrating Lane Cove Music’s 80th birthday!
Flute: Jocelyn Fazzone. Oboe: Teléna Routh
Clarinet: Carol Coomber. Bassoon: Jennifer Yeh
French Horn: Graham Nichols
Presenting a programme of beautiful repertoire including dance inspired works by Beethoven, De Falla, Khachaturian and Chabrier and some other well-known favourites
Tuesday 12 August 2025 at 7.30 p.m.
Pianist Simon Tedeschi, one of Australia’s best-loved classical musicians, with a long-harboured love of jazz, on this occasion is teaming up with jazz vocalist and violinist George Washingmachine for something a little different – Gershwin, Cole Porter, Fats Waller and more.
Venue: LCM ST. ANDREW’S ANGLICAN CHURCH 19 ROSENTHAL AVENUE, LANE COVE
LCM St Andrew’s Anglican Church, 19 Rosenthal Ave, Lane Cove Bookings open 23 July 2025 via our website www.lanecovemusic.org.au
behind the Post Office and opposite the entry to the Canopy Carpark
Online bookings preferred. Limited admission at the door on the night, cash only
Bookings open 18th February 2025 via our website www.lanecovemusic.org.au
Adults $30 School Students $10 Enquiries: 9428 4287
Why not take out a 2025 subscription for $90 for 6 concerts or $55 for pensioners
Online bookings are preferred. Some tickets will be available at the
Moocooboola Computer Club for Seniors
Enquiries
• Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
• Community Centre, 44 Gladesville Road, Hunters Hill.
Working at your own pace, learn how to explore your needs and interests such as archiving photos or planning holidays with guidance from our volunteer trainers, have fun with your IT devices, (no Apple Macs), and meet new people.
P: 9816 5293 or
P: 9879 4588 (during club sessions)
E: moocoo@netspace.net.au
Auction: Wed 2 July at 6pm
Open: As Advertised or By Appointment
Designer family lifestyle with water views.
Simon Harrison 0433 100 150 E: simon.harrison@belleproperty.com
Kim Walters 0499 014 886 E: kim.walters@belleproperty.com
Serene family living in parkside setting, this master built home offers a haven of space and privacy with abundant natural light and serene green views from every aspect.
Tim Holgate 0400 802 888 E: tim.holgate@belleproperty.com
Auction: Wed 2 July at 6pm Open: As Advertised or By Appointment
Tranquil family living in picturesque pocket on approx. 1,100sqm
James Bennett 0403 504 724 E: james.bennett@belleproperty.com
