Local East 2019 December

FREE The lifestyle magazine for the Eastern Suburbs

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INSIDE CHISWICK'S BURNT LEMON TART BONNIE'S BANNISTERS PORT STEPHENS FESTIVE TABLE DRESSINGS LOCAL GIFT GUIDE SHOPPING MALL SANTAS CLOVELLY

FEELS LIKE HOME Intimate, understated, original ... the Sydney restaurant interiors redefining our style P

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PLUS 2019 CALENDAR A YEAR OF GREAT DINING

The 25 best things to do in the East this summer

ICE COOL

D E C E M B E R

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NORTHBONDIFISH.COM.AU @NORTHBONDIFISH

OPEN FOR LUNCH, DINNER AND DRINKS 7 DAYS A WEEK.

CELEBRATE NEW YEAR’S EVE AT QUAY

This New Year’s Eve, gather your friends and family to join the dinner party of the year in the Green Room at Quay. With private access to the terraces surrounding the upper level of the restaurant, you will see two spectacular fireworks displays with uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour.

The Green Room guests will enjoy canapés and four course menu by Executive Chef Peter Gilmore, Champagne on arrival and at midnight, paired premium wines, and entertainment from a live jazz band to create a night to remember.

Dress | Cocktail Tables | Shared Round Tables of Ten Tickets | $1,450 per person Booking | quay.com.au

SECTION | XX

Let us serve you Australia’s finest dining experience

With hundreds of award-winning restaurants participating nationwide, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

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08 | LOCAL

EDITOR’S LETTER LAST YEAR ON CHRISTMAS DAY I AROSE FROM A FOOD COMA AT ABOUT 5PM TO TAKE THE DOG FOR A WALK. It had been a cold and overcast day, our attempts at a family Christmas beach swim at Coogee thwarted by blustery winds and splashes of rain. Still, it was the perfect weather for roast turkey.

By late afternoon began to clear. Patches of sunlight peeked through the clouds and the winds dropped. As I walked around the neighbourhood I noticed something you don’t see that often: that every few houses the doors were open to the street.

You could look into each as you went past, and see what people were doing.

People were having parties. You couldn’t tell if these parties were still going from lunch or if new parties were starting for early dinners, but a feeling of warmth and happiness emanated from all. Although there were many celebrations, I was struck by an overwhelming sense of togetherness and harmony.

What a privilege is it to live in the East. Aside from being one of the most beautiful places in the world, it is a pocket rich with community spirit. Although we often live on top of each other, or squeezed into tight streets, there’s an understanding that we are all in it together; the neighbourhood spirit is strong.

This edition is all about enjoying the East during the golden period that is summer. From going on coastal walks to dining out in new restaurants, dressing up for the opera or spending a day at the cricket test, there are wonderful experiences to be had on our doorstep. Summer is the best time of the year in Sydney; a great time be out loving life.

So the edition is about staying local and shopping local, too. The family-owned stores and boutiques on our high streets and in our suburban centres bring texture and richness to neighbourhoods that we should cherish and support if we can. Check out our Christmas gift guide for some tips.

Merry Christmas. Let’s hope this Christmas Day comes with beach weather, or at the very least a decent party for everyone.

ELIZABETH MERYMENT PUBLISHER

COVER PHOTO

LOCAL EAST Produced in association with Edible Ink Media & Content PUBLISHER & EDITOR Elizabeth Meryment lizzie@edibleink.com.au 0412 151 845 ART DIRECTOR Trevor Timms trevortimms@icloud.com SUBEDITOR Frances Hibbard CONTRIBUTORS Alexia Biggs Neil Breen Caroline Clements Remy Gerega Charlie Hale Leila Joy Lara Picone Jessica Ridley Dillon Seitchik-Reardon RECIPE BY Tom Haynes, Head Chef, Chiswick Woollahra ADVERTISING & PARTNERSHIPS Elizabeth Meryment 0412 151845 Francesca Mackay francesca@ localpublishingco.com.au 0412 853 130 LOCAL EAST (ABN. 45 613 327 987) IS WHOLLY OWNED BY LOCAL PUBLISHING CO PTY LTD (ACN. 613 327 987) CONTACT US letters@ localpublishingco.com.au Local East is printed at Spotpress, Marrickville.

50,000 copies of Local East are printed each month. The magazine is distributed from Elizabeth Bay to Watsons Bay and south to Maroubra Junction.

Responsibility for material published in Local East is taken by the Publisher.

Views expressed by contributors and advertisers are not necessarily the views held by Local Publishing Co Pty Ltd.

COVER IMAGE

LEILA JOY

“There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as half an hour in the steamy deckside sauna followed by a plunge in the pool’s cool salty water. Sydney right there” S TORY S TARTS PAGE 30

INSIDE

2019

A YEAR OF GREAT DINING

CALENDAR

2019 A YEAR OF GREAT DINING As a special gift, most readers will receive our complimentary calendar with this month’s edition. We are very proud to bring you this beautiful calendar in collaboration with the Fink Group, one of Australia’s leading hospitality operators.

If your edition does not come with a calendar, we will have copies to give away at the Cambridge Twilight Christmas Market in Watsons Bay from 3pm on December 7. Call in and see us there.

supacenta Moore Park

“New additions to our great range, now open.”

#MyPlace

Giving you more choice for your home...

SupaCentaMoorePark.com.au

XX | LOCAL

INDEX 14

THIS MONTH Betty Bundamurra's first exhibition

16 20

EVENT OF THE MONTH Christmas Markets

24 26 30 38 41

THE WRAP James Viles goes wild; and the new Italian trend DINING Bonnie's does beach food THE SHOT Clovelly's concrete beauty HOT SUMMER DAYS (& NIGHTS) The 25 coolest things to do this summer

TRAVEL What Bannisters did next

THE STORE A withdrawn DA saves Misses Bonney

42 KILLER COMEDY AND DRINKS DIRECT TO YOUR SEAT EVERY THURSDAY, FRIDAY, AND SATURDAY NIGHT!

BOOK YOUR CHRISTMAS PARTY AT THE STORE! GROUP PACKAGES AVAILABLE CONTACT US FOR MORE DETAILS!

ENTERTAINMENT QUARTER, MOORE PARK COMEDYSTORE.COM.AU or 9550 3666

44

CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Shop local this festive season

HOME HUNTER Deck the tables

51

RITUALS Shopping mall Santas

TOM HAYNES HEAD CHEF CHISWICK WOOLLAHRA

Tom Haynes trained in his native UK under Gordon Ramsay at Claridges. He moved to Australia at 21, where he worked under Matt Moran at Aria for six years. Two years ago he was appointed head chef at Chiswick Woollahra, where he works closely with Chiswick's gardeners and local suppliers to bring the restaurant’s "planted to plated” philosophy to each dish. Page 22

132 Queen St, Woollahra NSW 2025 T: (02) 9328 0402

victorchurchill.com

12 | L O C A L

LETTERS

local-mag.com.au

localeastmagazine

FREE The lifestyle magazine for the Eastern Suburbs

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INSIDE CHRISTINE MANFIELD’S FRIED FISH PARAMOUNT HOUSE HOTEL JACARANDAS PACIFIC CLUB BONDI OUTDOOR STYLE SPRING BATHROOM DESIGNS ROXY JACENKO

FEELS LIKE HOME

Intimate, understated, original ... the Sydney restaurant interiors redefining our style

@local_east

Letter of the month On a recent day off I found myself flicking through Local East magazine while sitting in a sunny spot on Oxford Street, surrounded by the jacarandas. It was one of those rare peaceful moments at a busy time of year that inspired some reflection on how lucky we are to live where we do. Or perhaps I'm just getting emotional as work will be taking me elsewhere far too soon.

It's been a real treat to be part of the community. And I must say some of the tips in this mag have certainly helped me make the most of my time here. I'll be passing on many a recommendation to friends in the future.

Kim Downs

P

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N O V E M B E R

Kim is the winner of the December prize: a copy of Christine Manfield’s Tasting India: Heirloom Family Recipes valued at $49.95.

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E D I T I O N

Send us your thoughts about the East, tips on shops, restaurants or people you would like to see featured, or comments on Local East LOCAL EAST NOVEMBER

letters@localpublishingco.com.au

YO U R S AY | 13

Next month The winner of the best letter in December receives the L'Occitane Advent Calendar, valued at $95, filled with 24 beautiful miniature skincare products, and the L'Occitane almond bubble, with three luxury products, valued at $22. To win, write to us at letters@localpublishingco.com.au or via our instagram page @localeastmagazine. The winner will be announced in our January edition

Feedback for Rituals: Jacarandas (Local East, November) When I spent a year in Brisbane in the mid-’90s, I arrived in midSeptember, and the jacarandas absolutely blew my mind. Great memories, and thanks for the post.

Ben Smith, via Twitter

As a kid jacaranda flowers meant exam stress and cold sores. These days they mean Spring Racing fever and goggle rash. My girls love them, and have asked me to plant one in the front yard Marty Breen, via Twitter

Feedback for Jen Browning’s East versus West (Local East, November)

Eastern Dog

Bean BREED LIVES

Cavoodle

North Bondi

LOVES The wind in my face on car trips, chicken, stealing socks (and undies).

Cheese is my kryptonite.

Want to see your dog featured in Local East?

Send us their image or tag us on instagram #localeastmag #easterndog

Really nice piece, Jen. Thanks for sharing it ... and with your work keeping an important connection between country and city.

Rupert Guinness, via Twitter

That was a great read [Jen Browning] but the Eastern Suburbs misses you, I’m sure. Anyway, dreams do come true, you see.

Thank you @localeastmagazine for your support and enthusiasm for our superfine merino knitwear (Shop Talk, November). The team is both stylish and lovely to work with.

Steve Hart, via Twitter

Holos.Sydney via Instagram

What a wonderful feature (Dining: November). Thank you so much @lizziemeryment for featuring us.

You're welcome any time.

ThePacificClubBondiBeach via Instagram

Scandinavian Design Store

• 478 Oxford Street • Paddington •

• T: 9332 2821 • luumodesign.com •

14 | L O C A L

THIS MONTH Director Graeme Murphy turns his accomplished hand to this new production of Puccini’s classic saga of love and death set in China. The season runs until March 30 and is headlined by American soprano Amber Wagner, Serbian soprano Dragana Radakovié, Spanish tenor Andeka Gorrotxategi and Korean sensation Yonghoon Lee. opera.org.au

Saké Double Bay has introduced a new weekend Champagne lunch. The $199 lunch includes unlimited Ruinart rosé Champagne and a seven-course tasting menu featuring some of the restaurant’s signature dishes. Think kingfish usuzukuri with yuzu and soy, newstyle wagyu with shiso dressing and mustard leaf tempura and lobster tail tempura. sakerestaurant.com.au

Indigenous artist Betty Bundamurra will hold her first solo exhibition — Wandjina’s Assistant — at Paddington’s Cooee Art Gallery from December 8-22. Bundamurra, a senior artist from the Gibb River region of Western Australia, produces exquisite and intricate paintings and works on paper that relate the stories of the flora and fauna of her land.

Also in Double Bay, The Sheaf has launched a summer Rum Shack rooftop bar featuring a smorgasbord of rum cocktails. The bar will run Thursday to Sunday until January 27.

cooeeart.com.au

thesheaf.com.au

After three years in the making, The Stables has opened, brining a culinary taste experience to Paddington.

Executive chef Thomas Gripton (ex-Bentley, Yellow) and head chef Gabriel Manari (ex-La Loconda, Denmark) create the best offerings from the land and sea.

The summer menu is ready to launch. Enjoy black garlic scallops, wagyu bresaola and much more. All produce is sourced from local producers daily.

Come in for a drink during happy hour 4-6.30pm for half price drinks.

1 Victoria St Paddington 9360 0098 reservations@thestablesrestaurant.com.au

W W W. H O LO S . S Y D N E Y

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event of the month WATSONS BAY CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT MARKET

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7, 3-9PM

AS FAR AS FESTIVE SPIRIT GOES, there’s nothing quite like a Christmas market to spark a sense of merry cheer. This month, Cambridge Markets will bring together more than 120 local vendors right next to the ferry on the harbour front of Watsons Bay to host their biggest event of the year, the Christmas Twilight Market.

The premier boutique-market brand encourages shoppers to buy local in the lead-up to Christmas, forgoing the shopping centre crowds for a community-driven experience that supports local and upcoming businesses.

“Unlike going to the mall, you have a connection with the stall you’re buying from,” says Cambridge’s market curator Bec Fox. “It feels nice to buy something from a small business and you get a chance to chat to the business owner.”

The Watsons Bay openair market means opportunity a-plenty to snag unique Christmas presents and avoid the fate of repeat gifting. “You’re guaranteed a bit of individuality by shopping like this because there’s none of the chains,” Fox says.

Local residents will be well represented among the myriad stalls. Rose Bay children’s fashion store Feisty Little Mouse will be selling their extensive range of kids clothing while Bondi local Rebecca Powell will showcase her TLuxe organic clothing brand.

Apart from a diverse range of locally made and produced homewares, fashion, beauty and health products, plus plenty of quality gifts, the market will also bring together several much-loved food vendors including Cow and The

Moon gelato, Jimmy Liks, Sonoma bakery and more.

Vendors will also be selling a Christmas-specific range of goods including fresh Christmas trees and festive accoutrements from cards to candles and wreaths. Pre-orders of organic Christmas fare including hams and turkeys will be taken.

Rides and activities will be available for kids, as well as live music courtesy of Watsons Bay locals Fig Tree Jam and Strolling Bones, and for the first time ever, four sunset bars will be operating so you can conclude your evening’s shopping with a glass of fizz, craft beer or gin cocktail.

Fox says she’s excited to once again bring the community together.

“It will be a beautiful afternoon and evening out right on the water.”

Charlie Hale

contemporary japanese cuisine

double bay || the rocks || manly now open sakerestaurant.com.au

18 | L O C A L

5

minutes with...

MIKEY ROBINS

The Woollahra-based comedian talks forks, fetishes and eating in the name of research for his new book, Seven Deadly Sins * And One Very Naughty Fruit

Mikey, can you please tell us what your new book is about?

Its a smorgasbord, so to speak, of weird and strange and interesting culinary tales from ancient Egypt to the current time.

What inspired you to write a book about this subject?

I have always loved food [laughs], and for something to do, I started reading culinary history books.

And when I was reading them, I kept coming upon all these weird stories and bizarre things about etiquette and food and I thought “I could probably write a funny book about that”.

How long did it take you to write it?

I did about four months research before I wrote a word, and the writing the book has been my life for most of this year.

What are some of the weird things you have discovered about food?

Oh, so many things. Like for instance, our weird relationship with the fork. In Elizabethan times the fork was banned, and even up until the 1870s the British navy banned the fork because they thought it was prissy. They ate with a knife and their hands. Which gave rise to the finger bowl ... don’t get me started about that. Then there’s the one about a term called “sploshing”. This is where people get turned on by sitting naked on a cake ... apparently the Black Forest gateau is one of their favourites.

What is the very naughty fruit?

The pineapple. Louis XIV tried to ban the pineapple because nobody told him to peel it and so he hurt his gums trying to eat it. Then there are the stories about the pineapple that I can’t say out loud.

There’s something called the Dirty Pineapple. I can’t even talk about it.

You’ll have to buy the book to find out what it means.

Seven Deadly Sins * And One Very Naughty Fruit. Simon & Schuster, $35

N8, VENETIAN SPRITZ, N17

THE DOLPHIN HOTEL, 412 CROWN ST, SURRY HILLS DOLPHINHOTEL.COM.AU

DOLPHIN SUMMER DRINKS

ALL DAY EVERY DAY

20 | LOC AL

the wrap Food & wine news

ANDREW WRIGHT, JANET WRIGHT, IAIN RIGGS

WORTH THE DRIVE The new restaurant and cellar door at Brokenwood winery at Pokolbin in the Hunter Valley opens on December 8, just in time for summer holidays.

The 90-seat The Wood will be run by chef Andrew Wright, with his wife Janet Wright on front of house. The pair will also oversee a second outlet, Cru Bar + Pantry, launching at the winery. Cru is a more casual dining space open for all-day eating, coffee and wine.

The new dining options complement Brokenwood’s striking redeveloped cellar door, which has intimate wine-tasting pods instead of the traditional long centre table, an expansive terrace for blissful summer grazing and drinking, and a wine museum with views into the working barrel hall.

The expansion and redevelopment is a huge investment for the Hunter institution, overseen by managing director and chief winemaker, Iain Riggs. ”We have an amazing relationship with Iain and the Brokenwood team”, says Andrew Wright.

The Wood opens on December 7

WILD OATS A trip to the Southern Highlands might be in order with the opening next month of Barn by Biota, by acclaimed chef James Viles.

Viles already has the highbrow Biota in Bowral, and is launching Barn By Biota in nearby East Kangaloon as a dining experience with his friends and Bowral locals, Louise and John Keats.

Barn by Biota will do two dinner services per month — the first are on January 11 and 25 — in, yes, a barn on the property owned by the Keatses. Each dinner service seats about 60.

Guests will all arrive and eat at the

same time, with ingredients sourced from local farms, and dinner served at two long communal tables. ”I think of Barn as Biota’s wild little sibling,” says Viles. “It’s definitely very much connected to what we do at Biota, but by having only two services a month we have a huge amount of freedom to get a bit ‘wild’ and a bit more loose.”

Barnbybiota.com

ITALIAN SUMMER Is Italian food the new flavour of Bondi? Seems that way, with two new Italian venues opening inside local pubs. And that’s in addition to Maurice Terzini’s new Med-leaning venture inside Bondi Beach Public Bar (see full review, pages 24-25).

Totti’s launches at The Royal Hotel on Bondi Road this month, while Maybe Frank is now open inside the Beach Road Hotel.

Totti’s is a particularly ambitious venture, with the 185-seat venue playing host to two of the bigger names in Sydney food The latest pub acquisition by the Merivale group boasts Khan Danis (ex-Rockpool) and Mike Eggert (exPinbone) in the kitchen.

The idea for Totti’s grew out of Eggert’s wildly popular Mr Liquor’s Dirty Italian Disco pop-up that operated last year out of Mascot’s Tennyson Hotel , and is designed to offer casual Italian food centred on the breads that come out of a woodfired oven.

“It’s visual, aromatic and very hands-on,” says Eggert of the food concept. “We want it to feel really communal, where people see a table full of little plates and fresh, steaming bread, and immediately want to tuck in and have fun.”

The restaurant will offers five or six daily pastas, while Denis will do a selection of chicken, fish, housemade sausages and schnitzels cooked on a Josper charcoal oven, alongside a range of sides such as Italian-style congee, polenta and salads with stone fruit and fresh tomatoes.

The restaurant is slated to open in early December.

Maybe Frank, meanwhile, is a summer pop-up that has taken over the first-floor space inside the Beach Road previously occupied by BL Burgers. It offers a short list of pizzas and cocktails. The venue is a little sister to the Maybe Frank pizzeria/ cocktail bars in Surry Hills and Randwick.

KHAN DENIS (SEATED), MIKE EGGERT

Summer Dec — Feb

—>

Summer at Chiswick Woollahra. Where grower and chef work hand in glove.

65 Ocean Street, Woollahra

@chiswickwoollahra

chiswickwoollahra.com.au

22 | LOC AL

RECIPE TOM HAYNES

H E A D C H E F, C H I S W I C K W O O L L A H R A

R

Burnt lemon tart

Start this recipe a day ahead for an incredible depth of lemony flavour

INGREDIENTS FOR THE PASTRY • 1 egg •1 80g unsalted butter, chilled and diced • 300g plain flour, sifted • 90g icing sugar, sifted FOR THE CUSTARD • 500ml milk • 535ml thickened cream •1 50g lemon leaves, picked from a lemon tree • 1 lemon, zested • 130g icing sugar • 4 egg yolks • 4 eggs • 1 extra egg yolk for egg wash EXTRA • 20g caster sugar

1

Using a food processor, combine the flour, icing sugar and butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Make a small well in the centre and add the egg. Bring the dough together, wrap in cling film and place in the fridge for one hour.

2

Wash and dry the lemon leaves and lightly crush to release the natural oils. In a heavy pot, bring the cream, milk and lemon leaves to a gentle simmer and allow to steep overnight in the fridge.

3

After 24 hours, strain the mix though a fine sieve. Whisk the whole eggs and egg yolks in a bowl with the icing sugar and add the infused dairy mixture. Strain though a fine sieve and place in the fridge until needed.

4

Pre-heat the oven to 170.C. Lightly flour your bench and roll out the pastry to approximately 5mm thickness. Place into a 28cm fluted tart tin, and press in the edges. Rest in the fridge for one hour.

5

Using a muslin cloth or baking paper, line the tart shell and add rice or baking beads and place in the oven to bake for 18-20 minutes. Remove the rice and continue baking for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.

6

Mix an egg yolk in a small bowl and use wash to gently brush the tart shell evenly. Continue to bake for five minutes to seal the pastry.

7

Remove the tart from the oven and turn the oven temperature down to 135.C. While the oven is cooling, pour your lemon mix into the shell up to the brim.

8

Place into the oven and cook for 25 minutes, then rotate tart and cook for a further 10 minutes. The tart is set when the centre has a wobble, but is not runny.

9

Cool for one hour, then sprinkle with the caster sugar and brûlée with a blow torch or place under a hot grill until lightly browned. Cut the tart into 12 portions and serve with crème fraîche or raspberries.

FOOD & WINE | 23

PHOTO: RACHEL KARA

24 | LOCAL

FOOD & WINE | 25

DINING BONNIE'S

D

A Med-themed restaurant installation inside Bondi Beach Public Bar prompts dreams of a European summer REVIEW BY ELIZABETH MERYMENT

BONNIE’S Bondi Beach Public Bar 180 Campbell Pde, Bondi Beach 9132 5777 bbpb.com.au All dishes: $4-$18

When you think about it, the essential Aussie beach dish is increasingly hard to define.

In the past you’d have easily declared it was fish and chips. But these days, with the fatwa on carbs and all, if you ordered fish and chips down in Bondi you’d probably just end up with no chips and a piece of fish sans batter. So, then, just fish.

And that’s not a dish.

Must be tricky, then, for modern pubs looking to capture the zeitgeist to decide what is their version of signature Aussie beach food. At the still-quite-new Bondi Beach Public Bar — Maurice Terzini’s flashy pub on Campbell Parade — head chef Monty Koludrovic (who also looks after BBPB’s sister venues, Icebergs and The Dolphin Hotel in Surry Hills) has gone for a sort of ritzy fast-food menu. There’s a squashed hamburger and fried chicken, pizza and, yes, a bag of fries. (Koludrovic doesn’t seem like a man who avoids carbs, bless him.)

And lately a new space has arrived at BBPB: a room out the back where Monty and his mastermentor Terzini indulge in writing a separate and all-new menu in their native language, Mediterranean.

Bonnie’s, as this space is called, follows the concept forged at the Dolphin, where a sliver of the venue is devoted to what might be considered an upmarket installation. The food is more adventurous, the wines interesting and often organic/natural, and the ambition is ramped.

The list here is almost dauntingly brief. Just 14 items are offered, including bread, oysters and a single dessert — Neapolitan ice cream. The menu descriptions are also brief. Chose from, say, mozzarella, basil or salami, parsley, fennel or tomato salad, herbs.

It may seem taut in the extreme but once the food starts arriving, it is instantly clear that you are in masterful hands; be assured delicious eating will ensue.

Start with a tingly little plate of radishes and olives, exactly as described, the radishes quartered and faintly pickled in sherry, the olives in a small pool of juicy oil.

Continue the Cote d’Azur vibe with a petite dish of grilled sardines, sprinkled with a tangy salsa verde.

There’s a fried calamari with rocket, lemon and a kicking aioli — a dish of perfection — and for something more substantial, meatballs Calabrese on grilled bread. The Calabrese element adds a touch of spice to these plump lumps of deliciousness, perfect with a glass of something off-the-beaten track (and served chilled).

A table of two could easily order all 14 dishes and leave satisfied, if a little full. The cooking is robust, amped for deliciousness, each smallish plate presented on its little silver dish like a memory of European summers past.

Maybe, just like in Europe, a perfectly formed plate of sardines is the new Aussie beach dish after all.

26 | L O C A L

T H E S H O T | 27

REMY GEREGA PHOTOGRAPHER

Clovelly Beach “There’s something about the strange, post-apocalyptic concrete job at Clovelly.

Seriously is this a wharf or a pool?”

BOOK EXTRACT PAGE 28

PHOTO: REMY GEREGA

28 | LOC AL

AUSTRALIA’S AMALFI In this extract from their new book Places We Swim, Dillon Seitchik-Reardon and Caroline Clements reveal the history the East’s concrete beach WHEN IT COMES TO THE EASTERN SUBURBS, and particularly this strip of coast south of Bondi, people are often strongly from one of two camps: the Gordons Bay camp, or the Clovelly Bay camp. For many of us, summertime memories are inseparable from the smell of sunscreen and the feel of sandy feet. But favourite swimming places come with their own set of personal experiences and some people just don’t like sand. There’s something about the strange, post-apocalyptic concrete job at Clovelly. Seriously, is this a wharf or a pool? Whatever it is, we love it.

If you think all this concrete is unnecessary, you’re probably right. It was originally poured by the Randwick Council during the Great Depression to create jobs for local men and easier access to swimming for the community. This is essentially a concrete beach. On a real humdinger of a day, this scene feels reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast — hundreds of people sprawled on colourful towels and banana

loungers or jumping joyfully from the banks into the deep water below — an epic view from the sky.

It’s a little-known fact that Clovelly is also the largest coastal swimming pool in the state. The inlet is enclosed by a naturally occurring rock shelf that protects the bay from open sea, creating an ocean pool that’s 60 metres wide and 350 metres long. And if a giant bay between concrete esplanades wasn’t enough, at one end is a sandy beach and on the southern side of the inlet is a 25-metre saltwater pool known as Jeff James.

Like most pools in Sydney’s coastal suburbs, this one is home to a winter swim club, the Clovelly Eskimos. These cold-water advocates swim competitively against the South Maroubra Dolphins, the Cronulla Polar Bears, the Maroubra Seals, the Coogee Penguins, and other neighbouring sea colonies.

Clovelly is a major stop on the Bondi to Coogee coastal walk, appearing over the hill just after the

Waverley Cemetery when you really need a dip. Sometimes it’s easier to swim across the inlet than to walk the iconic bright yellow line around its perimeter. Whichever way you go, you’ll always find an international cross-section of people in their swimsuits — Italian and Portuguese mixes with strong Aussie twangs, and more than a few pairs of brightcoloured budgie smugglers are on show. There’s a lot to love here.

Extracted from Places We Swim

by Dillon Seitchik-Reardon and Caroline Clements (Hardie Grant Travel, RRP $39.99), out now.

Follow Caroline and Dillon @ placesweswim placesweswim.com

SECTION | XX

SCG NEWS

UPDATE

K ER R IE M AT H ER A PPOIN T ED A S OU R N EW CEO

Kerrie Mather is the new chief executive of the Sydney Cricket and Sports Ground after being appointed in October. She has a distinguished international career and significant experience in the development and operation of major infrastructure and consumer-facing businesses, including most recently as Sydney Airport’s managing director and CEO. “I’m delighted to have been offered the opportunity to lead the SCG and SFS into a new era,” Ms Mather said. “We will provide the most exciting, high-quality sporting facilities and the best customer service and experience in Australia. I’m also excited about the contribution sport and events make to the community and economy in Greater Sydney and NSW, and I’m very much looking forward to strengthening our ties and engagement with our members and the community.”

SY DN EY FOOT BA L L STA DI U M U N V EIL ED

DEC

JAN

The winning design for the future Sydney Football Stadium was released in October after a design competition between some of the world’s best architectural firms.

Cox Architects, who designed the original venue in 1988, won the tender for their innovative structure. The new SFS includes a state of the art roof, designed to reflect noise back into the stadium as well as other lighting features. “We’ve used the natural environment as inspiration in the design, with a striking bronze façade in place that reflects Sydney’s unique sandstone geology, and a lightweight cloud-like roof structure,” said NSW Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres.

Demolition of the existing structure will commence in January 2019 as work begins to rebuild the venue into a world class stadium of up to 45,000 seats, which will serve the local community and the NSW sporting public for many decades to come.

SYDNEY CRICKET GROUND

GUIDED WALKING TOUR

Unforgettable for locals, international vistors and sport fans.

Tours Monday-Saturday 10am (non event days) (See website for additional summer tours)

BOOKING ESSENTIAL

www.scgtour.com.au tours@scgt.nsw.gov.au | 1300 724 737

• 90 minutes • Behind-the-scenes • Sydney Cricket Ground • SCG Museum

FEB/ MAR

THE

ACTION’S HEATING UP

AT SYDNEY’S HOME OF SPORT 22 DEC

HEAT @11.10am

DOUBLE HEADER

SCORCHERS @3.30pm

27 DEC

RENEGADES @2.50pm

DOUBLE HEADER

MELB STARS @7.15pm

3-7 JAN

12 JAN

ONE-DAY INTERNATIONAL @1.20pm

16 JAN SIXERS V RENEGADES @7.15pm

20 JAN SIXERS V HEAT @7.15pm

SYDNEY DERBY @7pm

23 JAN SIXERS V HURRICANES @7.15pm

29 JAN SIXERS V STRIKERS @7pm

02 FEB

09 MAR

WARATAHS v REDS @7.40pm Correct at the time of printing. Please refer to the website for details.

Proud partners

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PHOTO: HAMILTON LUND

32 | L O C A L

4

HOT SUMMER NIGHTS (& DAYS)

Looking for something to do this summer? Look no further. Lara Picone and the Local East team has fossicked through the best events, parties, exhibitions, picnic spots, beaches and shows in the neighbourhood to keep you more than mildly amused Additional reporting: Neil Breen, Charlie Hale, Elizabeth Meryment, Jessica Ridley

PHOTO: DANIEL LINNET

C O V E R S T O R Y | 33

GAME ON

It’s a Sydney tradition and the best way to usher in the fresh year — a day at the New Year's Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground. What better way to spend a summer's afternoon than in a grandstand at the grand old dame of Australian sport, watching the world's finest battle it out? This year’s Test begins on January 3, with the Aussies taking on India, the No. 1 team in the world. For five magical days the SCG will play host to what is more than a game of cricket: it’s life itself. NB

3

QUAY TO THE FUTURE

PHOTO: NIKKI TO

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Want the best possible vantage point to one of the world’s most incredible New Year’s Eve spectacles? Here it is — a night at Quay restaurant, with its private front-row seats to the fireworks and the magic of chef Peter Gilmore on the plate. Could there be a better night to experience Gourmet Traveller’s restaurant of the year?

We think not. EM

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quay.com.au

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JUST THE TICKET

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A LITTLE BIT OF BURLESQUE

Spend New Year’s Eve with Puccini in a night where sparks fly onstage and over the harbour. The classic opera La Bohème is a tale of longing, lust and love, told while you celebrate the finale of 2018. Interval has been timed neatly for the 9pm fireworks, and come midnight, you’re in the ideal spot to take in the second round of sparks. LP

It’s the party invite everyone wants to score — New Year’s Day in the best location on the planet, recovering from whatever we did the night before. This year Icebergs Dining Room and Bar hosts Sneaky Sound System and Ibiza’s Mambo Brothers at the party that stretches from midday until sunset. The dining room with a view will be transformed by artist Carla Uriarte with pops of colour to bring a sense of the freshness of a new year to the space.

It’s the one. Get a ticket if you can. EM

The smorgasbord of entertainment on offer at the Magic Mirrors Spiegeltent means it’s always a highlight of the Sydney Festival.

Our pick this year is the raucous Pigalle. Pull on your fishnets and dust off that feather boa for a night of burlesque in Hyde Park. Circus, disco and ’70s classics all rolled into one spectacular evening with a little help from Marcia Hines, Kitty Bang Bang and iOTA. LP

December 31 and beyond; sydneyoperahouse.com

January 1. For tickets register interest at idrbevents.com

January 8-27; sydneyfestival.org.au/ events/pigalle

January 3-7, 2019; scgt.nsw.gov.au/ sydney-cricket-ground

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FIREWORKS APLENTY

34 | LOCAL

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SEEK OUT HARBOURSIDE SECRETS

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Parsley Bay’s grassy lawn and protected swimming beach makes it a favourite for families and anyone seeking a cooling dip and refuge from the crowds of Bondi. This lesser-known but much-loved harbour treasure is renowned for its caves and rock overhangs. A perfect picnic spot, it even boasts its own incredible heritage suspension bridge, built by eventual Vaucluse mayor Edwin Sautelle in 1910. LP

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WALK THE WALK

It’s easy to forget how breathtaking the East is, but summer is the perfect time to rekindle your love for this ribbon of coastline. The Bondi to Coogee walk has recently been restored to its entirety following a landslide in 2016, with the Waverley Cemetery section now fully reopened. The cliffs and paths have been repaired with insurances to guard against future storms, so lace up your trainers and take in the spectacular and dramatic cliffside walk. LP

8

TAKE A ROOFTOP DIP

Here’s a little under-the-radar local knowledge to add a big dose of cool to your summer frivolity: from October to March the rooftop pool of Double Bay’s beautiful InterContinental Hotel is open to the public. Yes, you read that correctly. Between 11am and up until one hour after sunset from Tuesday until Sunday, you can take in the stunning view, relax on a sunlounger and slip into the pool like the glamorous hotel guest you aren’t. LP icsydneydoublebay.com

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ROSÉ, ROSÉ

One of the best things about summer is a chilled glass of rosé by the water on a sunny afternoon.

Happily, the clever people behind Rosé Bay Christmas Food and Wine Festival share this sentiment and have organised a festival on December 22 celebrating just that.

The inaugural festival takes place at

7 8 10

the Woollahra Sailing Club between 1pm and 9pm, showcasing Australian and French labels and Provence-inspired food. It’s the perfect place to pick up some lastminute gifts for … let’s be honest, yourself. The $40 tickets include three tastings and a tasting glass. LP December 22; rosebayfestival.com

10 14

SOL REVIVAL

The Botanica Vaucluse has launched a new day spa, Sol Spa, inspired by nature and beautiful Australian botanicals. We have our eye on the Botanica Luxe Package, which is three hours of pampering plus a glass of Veuve Clicquot Champagne — just to ensure you’re completely relaxed. Perhaps highlight this page and leave it on the fridge as a not-so-subtle hint to your own Santa? LP thebotanicavaucluse.com.au

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CRICKET WITH BELLS ON

If you like your sport bite-sized with fireworks, music and non-stop

C O V E R S T O R Y | 35

PHOTO: LOUISE HEWSON

PHOTO: JUSTINE HENDERSON

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You can take in the stunning view, relax on a sunlounger and slip into the pool like the glamorous guest you aren't

13

Want to find a gift that’s little out of the ordinary? Then head to Entertainment Quarter’s mega mixed festive market for a choice of gift that’s offbeat, creative and gorgeous, and brought to you by the small local retailers who make such wonderfully unique products. While there you can pick up a bunch of market-fresh flowers and Christmas booty including wrapping paper, wreaths, cards and trees. EM December 15 from 8am; cambridgemarketseq.com.au

NG

N

AW PR

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We love prawns however they come, but you can’t get much more Aussie than a prawn slapped on a slice of bread.

Or can you? North Bondi Fish’s head chef Jesse McTavish is a keen forager and takes the humble prawn sanga to the next level with the addition of local, native sea rocket to its accompanying mayonnaise. The sea rocket has a similar kick to wasabi and is the thing that makes McTavish’s take an instant classic. LP

SA

January 16; scgt.nsw.gov.au

THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS MARKET

PRAWN SANGAS

BY THE BEACH

A

action, then a Big Bash match at the SCG is for you. On January 16, the Sydney Sixers take on the Melbourne Renegades. It's perfect for keeping the kids entertained before they head back to school. And a family of four can get in for $42.50. NB

northbondifish.com.au

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CHILDRENS’ THEATRICS

Take the kids to the Sydney Opera House between January 9 and 19 to sample the dramatic arts as part of the Sydney Festival. A Ghost in my Suitcase is a heartwarming adventure that follows a bereaved 12-year-old girl, Celeste, as she

travels to China to unite with her ghost-hunting grandmother.

It’s a beautiful exploration of culture and identity, based on Gabriel Wang’s award-winning children’s novel. LP sydneyfestival.org.au/events/aghost-in-my-suitcase

15

DIVE INTO A CHALLENGE

Everyone needs a bit of motivation to stay in reasonable shape during the festive period, so why not target an ocean swim early in 2019? There's a ripper at North Bondi on January 13 that starts and finishes in front of the surf club. It's brilliantly organised with lots of water safety and there's two options — a one-kilometre swim at 9.15am and a two-kilometre swim at 10.30am. And after you’ve conquered that, why not try the famous Big Swim, from Palm Beach to Whale Beach on January 27. It’s legendary. NB January 13 and January 27 oceanswims.com

36 | L O C A L

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GALLERY ESCAPE

If you’re looking to sidestep the summer heat for a while, head to the Art Gallery of NSW to appreciate some of the greatest art works of the modern era. Masters of Modern Art from the Hermitage runs until March 3, and features a collection of the most celebrated modern artists, including Monet, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso and Kandinsky.

Each Wednesday the gallery stays open late for Art After Hours, and on December 12 you can enjoy a Christmas choir performance. LP artgallery.nsw.gov.au

17

DOMESTIC DRAMA

A tale of mutual loathing is the thrust of this wickedly black comedy directed by Academy Awardnominee Judy Davis and starring her actor husband Colin Friels. The Dance of Death runs until December 23 at the Belvoir St Theatre, and will leave you with a new appreciation of your significant other. LP belvoir.com.au/productions/thedance-of-death

18 Hi Paddington!

When did you last visit our William Street store? Nudie Jeans have served the area with great denim for 15 years now and would like to give you a little something: Present this card at the store and you’ll receive 20 % off your next purchase.

What’s new? Luckily almost nothing. We still use 100 % organic cotton, offer free repairs on all Nudie Jeans and as of now, all new denim styles come with a new vegan back patch instead of a leather one.

Welcome!

35 W I L L I A M S T 2021, P A D D I N G T O N

PUSH THE BOAT OUT

We spend a lot of time admiring the harbour from the shore, but how often do you really get into or onto it? One of the best ways to enjoy Sydney is by kayak. If you’ve never taken oar to water, make this summer the time to do so. Life’s An Adventure in Rose Bay offers a four-hour tour that includes lunch at Shark Island, or you can always hire a kayak (or stand-up paddleboard) and bob around the harbour yourself.

Just keep an eye out for ferries. LP lifesanadventure.com.au

19

OUTWARD BOUND

If you’re keen to get the family into camping, but are not sure how it will go, you can trial the great outdoors with an overnight stay at Centennial Park. Park After Dark runs once a month between November and June, but we suggest the summertime camp on February 22.

The package includes tent assembly 101, a guided twilight tour, barbecue dinner and breakfast. BYO tent. LP centennialparklands.com.au

This offer can’t be used in conjunction with any other offer. This offer is valid one time/post card thru December 31st 2018 but you are of course welcome to visit the store anytime.

C O V E R S T O R Y | 37

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ITALIAN SUMMER

Nothing says Italian summer quite like aperitivo hour so why not enjoy a little Italian spirit back home? You’ll find it at Rosetta, Neil Perry’s Italian venue in city. It’s on every weekday between 4pm and 7pm at their glossy Little Rose rooftop terrace.

Treat yourself to pre-dinner antipasti and a drinks selection that includes Prosecco, espresso martinis, Negronis and Aperol Spritzes, from $8 each. JR rosettarestaurant.com.au

21

NO CANINE, NO GAIN

What do dogs and Pilates have in common? Not a whole lot really. But combined, it’s guaranteed to make your abs sore (from laughing). Give your four-legged mate a break from the heat, with a sweat session at Peaches Pilates in either Bondi or Maroubra. Exercises include canine lifts and reaching for pooch pats. JR peachespilates.com

22

YOU’VE GOT TO LAUGH

The Comedy Store is rolling out the laughs over summer with a rotating line-up of stand-up stars every Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Our pick is comic, actor and presenter Cam Knight who’s headlining with his new act from December 6-8, and returning to support Boston-born headliner Al Del Bene from December 20-22.

Funny stuff. CH comedystore.com.au

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FESTIVE SOUNDS

Pack your picnic blankets and head to spectacular Watsons Bay on December 4 for an evening of carols performed by The Royal Australian Navy and local schoolchildren within the grounds of HMAS Watson. Santa, myriad food options and kids’ entertainment spell an evening of family fun. Bring a bottle of and enjoy the festive sounds as the sun sets over Sydney Harbour. CH woollahra.nsw.gov.au

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GET FIZZY WITH IT

It’s always quite the ride when Kenny, Jake and The Unicorn Hotel crew put on shindig. On December 8, the boys who have transformed this Paddo pub into a haven of schnitty and screaming 1980s rock tunes are laying on a party dedicated to all things fizz.

The What A Fizzer wine festival features beer (craft and KB), champers and even that beverage beloved of the bearded old-timer, cider. A $50 ticket includes tastings of every fizz, plus some Mary’s menu favourites (there’ll also be a pop-up bottleshop). CH theunicornhotel.com.au

25

SWIM LIKE YOU’RE WINNING

If all else fails, there’s one thing you have to do this summer — take a swim at Bondi Icebergs. There’s nothing quite as exhilarating as half an hour in the steamy deckside sauna followed by a plunge in the pool’s cool salty water. Sydney right there. EM

38 | LOC AL

The

rebirth of cool

PHOTOS: LAURIE GOODRIDGE/DAVID GRIFFIN

T R AV E L | 39

Bannisters Port Stephens continues its older sister’s theme of cleverly reimagining a classic 1960s Aussie beachside motel, writes Elizabeth Meryment OF ALL THE ARCHITECTURAL ERAS TO HAVE WROUGHT HAVOC along the coastline of New South Wales since colonial settlement, it’s hard to think of a more demented aesthetic than the one defining the hippie-dippie years from the late ’60s to the early ’70s (although the ’80s also has a case to answer).

Drive anywhere from Batemans Bay to Ballina and it won’t take long to notice the shadow cast by the hulking body of some blond brick motel or another.

You have to wonder what builders were thinking, let alone councils, back in the day. Anything went, apparently, and the uglier the better. And half a century later, the coast road remains littered with said soulless monoliths, usually with monikers such as The Shores, The Sands, The Surf and myriad other S themes.

The idyllic inlet of Soldiers Point — just around the corner from Port Stephens, three-and-a-half hours north of Sydney — had its own version of this ’60s bad dream: the Salamander Shores Hotel (the S game was strong in Soldiers Point).

The motel, which opened in 1968 as simply The Salamander, was a riot of pale brick staring with Soviet-Era severity to sea. And what a view. At sunset, pink skies settle over a serene bay fringed with wispy gums. From the hotel’s shores, there’s a long jetty you can walk down to have a good think about life, should you desire, and a tiny beach near to which, these days, sail boats are tethered in case a day of dolphin watching in the bay strikes your fancy.

The hotel reopened in September, restored and refashioned under the Bannisters banner, a sister operation to the deeply loved Bannisters By The Sea at Mollymook, on the South Coast. Here, as there, there’s a seafood-focused Rick Stein

restaurant, the only international outposts of the much-admired British chef.

And happily now the past has been swept away with the tides of time: the same monolithic motel structure exists, only The Salamander’s blond bricks have been whitewashed and $7 million worth of love has resulted in 80 rooms with tasteful carpets, quality white linen and minimalist art. The overhaul is a triumphant melding of past and present. Bannisters Port Stephens joins the ranks of other coastal motels (think Cabarita’s Halcyon House) to be propelled into the 21st century; the old repurposed and cool once again.

There’s not a lot to do at Soldiers Point, which suits most guests. This is a retreat for exhausted Sydneysiders to get away for a weekend, or longer, stare at the sea, eat seafood, drink wine and sleep.

There’s a glamorous infinity pool, with a deck bar serving burgers and more, but if you avoid the (unheated) water, you won’t be the first. It’s enough to sit poolside until the winds bluster in across the bay, then return to your room to slip between luxury sheets and go back to sleep.

Elizabeth Meryment was a guest of Bannisters

BANNISTERS PORT STEPHENS 147 Soldiers Point Rd, Soldiers Point (02) 4919 3800; bannisters. com.au/port-stephens Rooms start at $290 per night

Plan ahead for a great NYE XX | LOCAL

Woollahra Council wishes residents and visitors a fun and safe New Year’s Eve. Visit www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au/nye to: • • • •

Plan your night Find the best vantage points Understand local road closures and traffic information Find out where Alcohol Free Zones (AFZ) are in place.

The following parks & reserves in Woollahra will be alcohol free: McKell Park, Rushcutters Bay Park, Sir David Martin Reserve, Yarranabbe Park, Murray Rose Pool (Redleaf), Blackburn Gardens, Duff Reserve, Dumaresq Reserve, Rose Bay Foreshore, Percival Park, Tingira Memorial Park, Robertson Park and Queens Avenue.

Road closures will apply from 3pm on 31 December 2018. For more information please visit our website. Plan ahead and use public transport. Visit www.transportnsw.info.

•WC_NYE2018_180x158.indd 1

Ears blocked with wax? ...You need Earworx BONDI JUNCTION NOW OPEN 16 Vernon Street, Bondi Junction NSW 2022

www.earworx.com.au THE EARWAX REMOVAL PROFESSIONALS

14/11/18 4:03 pm

R E TA I L | 41

the store Retail news from across the Eastern Suburbs

HEAVEN SCENT Bondi-based natural cleaning and beauty brand Bondi Wash has opened a second store, this time on Paddington’s Oxford Street.

Bondi Wash’s Belinda Everingham says the sleek space was styled by design duo Mr & Mrs White. The combination of curvilinear oak cabinetry, green onyx and brass details results in a serene yet sophisticated aesthetic.

“Oxford Street means a really visible street presence and being right opposite the markets means Saturdays are busy,” Everingham says.

The store offers Bondi Wash’s full range of naturally scented products that include body balms, sprays and soaps, hand washes, baby lotions, dog washes and laundry detergents. All products are made from Australian botanicals. Bondi Wash’s original shop is in Gould Street, Bondi.

396 Oxford St, Paddington; bondiwash.com.au

NEAR MISSES Customers were in tears when Adrienne & The Misses Bonney owner Terry Berry hung a sign in-store announcing it was time to retire. The landmark baby and childrenswear boutique, one of Sydney’s oldest and a resident of Double Bay for nearly 50 years, had planned to shift gears to an online-presence only following the post-Christmas sales.

But the sudden withdrawal of a development application for a sixstorey complex on the site of 55 Bay Street has saved the day — and the institution that is Adrienne & The Misses Bonney. Berry says the store will close for a substantial renovation following its first-ever January sale and reopen on March 3 — the 48th anniversary of its arrival in Double Bay. “People were very upset that we were to close,” Berry says. "The question I was continually asked was ‘But where will I go?’. We represent something that almost no longer exists.

“Our Christmas stockings, which we’re known for, need to go on. We have had them for 43 years. The children who received them years ago are now buying them for their grandchildren, so they really cannot stop.”

55 Bay St, Double Bay; adrienne-bonney.com.au

SUPA ADDITIONS Three new stores have opened at the Supa Centa in Moore Park. Provincial Home Living, Beacon Lighting and The Good Guys join more than 40 other retailers at the revitalised retail precinct. The additions continue the centre’s focus on furniture and homewares and mark the first Sydney location for Victorian homewares and furniture retailer Provincial Home Living.

“Being among other fantastic brands within Supa Centa Moore Park is incredibly exciting,” says a spokesperson from Provincial Living. “Provincial has been loved by Victoria for 16 years, but to now have a presence in inner Sydney is only going to strengthen our brand.”

The new store offers an extensive furniture collection, plus kitchenware, soft furnishings, accessories and lighting.

Beacon Lighting's new store will be the retailer's flagship national outlet, stocking the brand’s full range. A fully interactive smart lighting display is a feature and will include smart lighting from brands including Philips, LIFX, Google and Amazon. The Good Guys, meanwhile, provides an extensive range of the biggest brands in household appliances.

Supa Centa Moore Park spokesperson Annette Saunders said its 45 homemaker stores made Supa Centa the unrivalled option for choice and convenience in Sydney.

“No matter where you are in life: a renting student, young professional or family, or downsizing after the kids have moved out, Supa Centa Moore park has something to enhance your life and home.”

All three stores celebrate their opening in the Supa Centa with special offers, see in store for details.

Cnr Todman Ave and South Dowling St, Moore Park; supacentamoorepark.com.au

42 | LOC AL

Holos persimmon travel wrap with pouch

Flour and Stone: Baked for Love Life & Happiness cookbook by Nadine Ingram

Palm Beach Collection X Seafolly limited-edition candle in Mist

$17, from Dan Murphy's, Double Bay

Riedel Performance decanter $64.96, from riedel.com

$55, at all good book stores

$19.95, from Myer Bondi Junction

Everleigh Bottling Co. Bobby Burns Scotch Manhattan bottled cocktail

$385, from Holos, Paddington

The Local gift guide

Four Pillars Australian Christmas gin $100, from Dan Murphy's, Double Bay

'Tis the season to shop and support our amazing local retailers. And you can't go wrong with these gifts for home, mind and body.

Mud Australia teacup and saucer round, $79, and pebble bowl medium, $68, from Mud Surry Hills and Double Bay

Scala dei Turchi #1, Sicily from This Beautiful Place by Mark Bramley Prints from $249 (unframed), available at Cambridge Markets EQ and Watsons Bay Twilight Christmas Market

Haigh's assorted creams chocolates $29.95 for 200g, from Haigh's Westfield Bondi Junction

The Woman in Black

by Sefton Segedin From $500, seftonsegedin.com

ST YLE | 43

Isabel Marant oval drop earrings $365, from Parlour X, Paddington

Canvas + Sasson Bohemia Lisbon clutch bag $119.95, from Cicada & Co, Bellevue Hill

The Lost Man

by Jane Harper $32.99, at all good book stores

Nudie Jeans Lean Dean men's jeans in Joshua Worn wash $269, from Nudie Jeans, Paddington

Alinka Stasia diamond star stud earrings King Living furniture

From $800, from Alinka, Double Bay

Crescent table from $880, Luxurious accessories cushions, from $84, and Crescent ottoman, from $495, from King Living, Bondi Junction

Fendi F is Fendi cat's-eye sunglasses $645, from Parlour X, Paddington

Staycation at The Old Clare Hotel, Chippendale Rooms from $299 per night; theoldclarehotel.com.au

DeLonghi Argento Flora four-slice toaster $129, from Myer, Bondi Junction

Leuchtturn1917 notebook in emerald green Isabel Marant Andor ruffle dress $1745, from Parlour X, Paddington

$35.95, from Opus Design, Paddington

44 | LOCAL

Alpine LED garland $64.95, papaya.com.au

Vera Wang Wedgwood Lace platinum oval platter $99.95, wedgwood.com.au

Alain Saint-Joanis Lignes hand-finished cutlery $907 for seven-piece place setting, petersofkensington.com.au

Waterford Snowflake Wishes Happiness double old fashioned crystal tumbler $199, waterfordcrystal.com.au

Zara Home felt placemats, earthenware fir tree dessert plate, mug and bowls $12.95 each, zarahome.com/au

Max Sparrow Ynez grey dining chair $995.01 per pair, maxsparrow.com.au

Zara Home embroidered napkins $49.95 for set of four, zarahome.com/au

ST YLE | 45

Nordstjerne paper Christmas decorations in black jewel, dusty pink and nude grey $49 for pack of four, designstuff.com.au

Marinoni pewter two-tier petit four stand $239, davidjones.com.au

Berry Blue Gum wreath $49.99, adairs.com.au

home hunter

FESTIVE DRESSED Set the scene for a Christmas feast to remember with these gorgeous festive table decoration ideas.

Make it merry; make it bright ALEXIA BIGGS INTERIOR STYLIST

Heritage Holly Berry Joy round paper placemat $34.95 for set of four, myer.com.au

IKEA Vinter 2018 paper napkin $1.99 for pack of 30, ikea.com.au

46 | LOCAL

neighbourhood Profiling and supporting our favourite local businesses across the East

Produced by Local East in partnership with local businesses

CANDLES

LOOBYLOU

Burning a candle isn't only about making your room smell amazing.

The act of lighting a candle, and taking a moment to make your space a little more beautiful, is a ritual that ignites an intention.

Loobylou founder and owner Kere M. Baker is driven by a love of candles and inspired by the connection between emotion and fragrance. Kere believes in treading gently on the earth, hand-crafting natural products of the highest quality, and celebrating the artistry and originality of candle making and product manufacturing.

Loobylou is proud to be a small and local business promoting the benefits of a personal connection between maker and buyer. And Kere is passionate about working with businesses that get the point of difference of her products.

Months go into creating the right balance for each candle and carefully achieving custom blended fragrances. The entire range is handpoured in the Sydney studio using only the highest-quality natural soy wax. Soy won’t release toxins or harm the environment, and it burns cooler and longer than its harsher

petro-chemical cousin, paraffin.

Loobylou candles have no added chemical stabilisers, fragrance enhancers, emulsifiers or flame retardants. The oils are a blend of the highest quality perfume-grade fragrance and essential oils.

New to the Loobylou range are the Purification Intention and Moon Survival Kits, designed to “clear out the negative energy from a room”.

When burned, “the smoke of these sacred ingredients attaches to the negative influence and ions, and shifts it from the person and space”.

Each kit includes a handmade candle, crystal-infused room spray and Californian white sage smudge stick for purifying spaces.

A wonderful selection of Loobylou candles, plus the Kits, are available at Cicada & Co in Bellevue Hill.

Cicada & Co is a beautiful gift shop filled with treasures and gifts carefully and thoughtfully sourced and curated for all ages.

Start your journey today: visit the girls at Cicada & Co to select a Kit appropriate for you. cicadaco.com.au

BREAD

ORGANIC BREAD BAR

Andreas Rost grew up on a farm in his native Germany watching his grandmother baking bread. So when it came to choosing a living for himself, becoming a baker seemed a natural choice.

“I did an apprenticeship at 15 years,” says the quietly spoken baker, who took a winding path through hotel management and other jobs before deciding when he moved to Australia in 2007 that his heart truly belonged in the kitchen. “I realised that baking is

what I wanted to do, and baking the organic and natural way.”

In 2001, Andreas opened Organic Bread Bar on South Dowling Street, Paddington, and rapidly developed such a loyal following with customers that he opened a second outlet on Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst. He also operates each Wednesday and Saturday at Cambridge Markets EQ — the only market at which he sells his exquisite

range of sourdoughs, speciality breads, croissants, European pastries and cakes. Andreas says Australians are increasingly buying and appreciating better-quality breads.

“In Australia people appreciate good bread and they are prepared to pay a little extra for it,” he says.

Cambridge Markets EQ Wednesday and Saturday 8am-2pm; cambridgemarketseq.com.au

C O M M U N I T Y | 47

Yule love it A Christmas window-dressing competition will bring plenty of festive joy to the East this December FESTIVE SPIRIT IS STRONG ACROSS THE EASTERN SUBURBS this December and getting stronger with some help from Waverley Council.

The Waverley Christmas Window Competition 2018 will focus on Gould and Hall streets, Bondi, and Bronte Road in Charring Cross, with shops encouraged to decorate their windows with all manner of festive cheer.

Waverley mayor John Wakefield said the council is delighted to launch the Waverley Christmas Window Competition for 2018. ”This year we have decided to spread the competition areas to include Charing Cross, Hall Street and Gould Street,” councillor Wakefield says. ”We’re passionate about our local economy here in Waverley and we want to support residents and visitors alike to shop local this Christmas and discover beautiful gifts, produce and experiences right on our doorstep.

”Not only that, we want our local villages to be spaces that are alive and vibrant for everyone to enjoy. So we’re looking forward to seeing how businesses create and decorate their shopfronts.”

The competition is supported by the Bondi & Districts Chamber of Commerce and Local East magazine.

Newly elected Chamber of Commerce president Emmanuel Constantinou encourages local businesses to get into the spirit of the season and help bring local shoppers onto the streets. ”At the end of the day, your window display is the voice of your store,” Mr Constantinou says.

“We encourage businesses to get involved and dress their shops.

It’s the Christmas season and we want to get people involved in the experience of shopping on our streets.”

Last year’s winner, Kristine Yeats from Ky Design & More on Bronte Road at Charring Cross

(now on Albion Street in Waverley), says it’s important that shoppers consider visiting neighbourhood stores when doing their gift shopping. ”Every time people come into my shop they’re like, ‘Oh my god, it’s beautiful in here’,” Ms Yeats says.

“But we need more people coming in. We need to get more people back onto the street to do their shopping.”

Sarah Fowden, manager of the St Vincent de Paul store on Hall Street in Bondi, says the community loves to be involved in window dressing, especially at Christmas. ”We love doing it and people get really involved with it,” she says. “The little kiddies can enjoy it because it has some traditional stuff in it but adults can enjoy it too. It's a great thing for the community … we get a little bit carried away with it actually.”

The competition opens on December 1, with the winners announced prior to Christmas

S H O P : 2 B AY S T, D O U B L E B AY 2 0 2 8 P H O N E : 0 2 9 3 2 7 4 7 7 7 F O L LO W U S O N I N S TA G R A M : S E N TO S A D E S I G N S

PEOPLE | 49

society HOLOS

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 13

Superfine style

JACQUI WALKER, ANNA MALONEY

JAMES RIGBY, CATERINA BIDINI

Paddington society, media and lovers of superfine merino wool turned out on an unseasonably cool and wet November evening to the launch of local brand Holos’s new retail outlet on Underwood Street, Paddington. The opening was a chance to show off the space created by talented Potts Pointbased interior designer Alexandra Kidd, which is tucked into venture capitalist Mark Carnegie’s palmtree fringed complex. Holos owner and founder Margie Moroney, a one-time investment banker herself, welcomed guests with Champagne and canapés into the charming, compact space that is lined with the brand’s signature colourful wraps.

Also showcased were Holos’s new range of luxe merino tees, as well as scarves and sweaters. holos.sydney

DEMI BARNES, MARGIE MORONEY, ALEXANDRA KIDD

SHANNON CHANDLER

SARAH FLEETWOOD

PHOTOS: MICHAEL AMENDOLIA

50 | LOC AL

rituals

SHOPPING MALL SANTAS

DECEMBER

Neil Breen on the perks and perplexities of life in the big red suit

A FAMILIAR COMPLAINT IN THE RUN-UP TO CHRISTMAS IS ABOUT SHOPPING MALLS. You can't park. They're packed. The music. (Please make that Mariah Carey song stop already). Over-excited kids pestering you. You don't know what to buy for that choosy gift recipient.

But I have a confession. I love them. I love Christmas shopping. I love rolling around the malls.

This joy stems back to my teenage years. Upon leaving school in 1985, I scored a job as a Christmas casual at Myer.

That flowed into a casual spot that I kept until I left university in 1989. I was assigned to two adjoining departments — toys and confectionery. Talk about dream jobs. Why was I even studying?

The lead-up to Christmas was always the busiest time. I’d stockpile enough money to get through to Easter and there was a definite buzz in the air.

One of our duties was to set up an area for the resident Santa, usually an elderly gent who went to

THE WRITER WITH COUSIN GREG (MAIN IMAGE) AND AS A BOY (RIGHT, WITH HIS BROTHER DAN) ON SANTA’S LAP

Santa School and was then assigned a store. Which brings me to 1987.

That was the year the government relaxed the rules at suburban shopping centres.

Suddenly they could stay open until 9pm every night, and all day on weekends, in the weeks running up until Christmas. Well, those hours crippled our 75-year-old Santa and, about four weeks before Christmas, the store manager approached me.

Manager: Neil, do you think you could handle a few shifts as the store Santa?

Me (full of bluster): Easy. When do you want me to do it?

Manager: 5pm today.

And that was it. I was the deputy store Santa. I was only 19.

I did about 24 to 30 hours a week as Santa for the next three Christmases. After the first week, I picked up my pay packet — we got cash in a little yellow envelope — and there was a wad of notes contained within. I told the pay clerk she'd made a mistake and she replied: “No, you get actor's equity rates for being Santa, which is $23.80 an

hour”. A lot better than the $7.17 an hour I usually took home.

Some strange stuff happened when I was Santa. Teenage girls walked past in packs and yelled “He's too young to be Santa”. But most people didn't care. The kids never knew the difference. Even my very own cousin Greg (pictured) sat on my lap one year when he was three and had no idea. My friends from school and the rugby club couldn't get enough of it.

Of all my memories, one stands out. There was a young boy who was either Jewish or Muslim, whose family didn't celebrate Christmas.

He was about eight and would come and see me every time he was in store and talk about all sorts of things. He would sit near me as I spoke to the other kids. He would go away and come back time after time.

I could tell he was confused as to why Christmas was all around him yet it wasn't for him. Only once did I see his parents. His dad came and got him after he'd sat with me for at least an hour one day. His dad never said thanks.

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Sally Fitzgibbons

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AFFORDABILITY

Champion Australian Womens Pro Surfer, proud Bluetongue Pools ambassador

THE

ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS MARKET JEWELLERY HOMEWARES FASHION FESTIVE PRODUCE FLOWERS

EQ RETAILERS 150 STALLS KIDS’ ACTIVITIES

SATURDAY DECEMBER 15 8AM-5PM

CAMBRIDGE MARKETS I EQ 122 LANG ROAD, MOORE PARK