In the digitally-dominated, fast paced world we live in today, sometimes it’s nice to slow down and reflect on the simpler times of yesteryear, remembering the roots and past lives of our surroundings. Series 1 will take a look at the long development of Darling Harbour and its surrounds. IMAGE 1 - Aerial view over Pyrmont Bridge and Darling Harbour - 1873 In 1873, Sydney photographer Francis W Robinson undertook a perilous ascent of the clocktower of Sydney Town Hall, then nearing completion as the tallest structure in Sydney. This image is one of nine photos making up a panorama. The image offers a north west view of Pyrmont, Pyrmont Bridge, Darling Harbour and Balmain in the distance. Ships and boats at the wharves are visible. Sussex Street cuts across at centre. IMAGE 2 - Darling Harbour Wharves and City Skyline - 1932 View looking from Pyrmont to the Darling Harbour wharves. Ships docked. Showing ships, the wharf, bridge and smoke. Sign for Cold Storage at right. IMAGE 3 - Pyrmont Bridge - Swing Bridge - 1937 View south east of Pyrmont Bridge from Pyrmont on western side of Darling Harbour, with the swing span opened for ships. Constructed between 1899 and 1902, Pyrmont Bridge was one of the first bridges in the world to have its swing span operated by electricity. IMAGE 4 - Aerial view of Western Distributor, Cockle Bay and Darling Harbour, 1982 Looking west across Cockle Bay to Pyrmont, with Pyrmont Bridge open, towards Wentworth Park and Blackwattle Bay and showing Western Distributor under construction. Commercial buildings include Bradmill in the foreground and Goldsbrough Mort. Photo taken before Darling Harbour redevelopment and Harbourside Shopping Centre. IMAGE 5 - Darling Harbour Wharves and City Skyline - 2000 This is one image of the series taken by Harold Kerr capturing the operations of Darling Harbour wharves from 2000 through to its closure in 2007 and its demolition in 2008. South view of the passenger terminal looking towards Darling Harbour and the Australian National Maritime Museum. IMAGE CREDIT: City of Sydney Archives

Are considering livening up your home? Is there a blank wall in your living room begging for some love and attention? If you’ve been considering purchasing contemporary artwork from NSW and Australian artists, this is for you! The Affordable Art Fair is returning to Sydney’s Royal Randwick Racecourse with a wealth of talent from New South Wales and across Australia. From Friday, June 16th, until Sunday, June 18th, the fair will bring an exciting collection of the latest contemporary art priced below $10,000. There will be something for everyone, whether you’re an experienced collector looking to add to your collection or a first-time buyer exploring the art world for the first time. This is an accessible venue with plenty of parking. Gates open from 10 am daily, closing at 8 pm on Friday and 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Jump on the website for more details - https://affordableartfair.com/fairs/sydney/ June 16-18, 2023 The Royal Randwick Racecourse Winx Pavilion Gate E, Alison Road, Randwick

Rundown of Sydney Late Night Clubs, Including Closing Times More on Sydney CBD Sydney was once renowned for its late-night party scene, boasting a smorgasbord of options if you wanted to continue the party late into the evening. The good old days seem like a lifetime ago, but some venues still serve up the goods until the early hours! Before the lockout laws, which were in effect from 2014 until 2020, it felt like Sydney at night was just as busy as it was during the day. Then just as venues thought a light at the end of the tunnel was approaching, our city was hit with COVID lockdowns and thus our favourite party venues took a secondary hit. Over that decade, the hospitality & entertainment sector has suffered more than any other industry. Now, it’s crucial that we all get back out there to support those venues that have overcome these immense difficulties & survived. It’s time to fight for your right to party by simply doing so! List of Sydney Nightclubs (with Closing Times) If you are looking for Sydney nightclub closing times and/or a quick summary of what to expect at the most popular Sydney night spots, look no further. Here's our list. Club 77 at 77 William St, Darlinghurst Open 7 Days, Till 4am A cornerstone of Sydney's nightlife for 25 years, Club 77 remains an essential outpost for the city's vibrant electronic music scene. This progressive platform nurtures synergies with pioneering promoters, artists, and DJs, curating an unforgettable clubbing experience. Following years of lock-out laws and Covid-19’s repercussions, Club 77 stands at the forefront, seeking to reimagine Sydney's nocturnal culture and demonstrate the potential of a 24-7 city. As a multifaceted venue, 77 aims to maintain its reputation as an electronic music stronghold while also becoming an appealing late-night dive bar, open until 4 am, seven nights a week. They strive to be an inclusive late-night destination, welcoming seasoned club-goers, newcomers, and hospitality workers alike to revel in their unique music, drinks, and food offerings. Abercrombie Open 7 Days from 12pm | Monday-Thursday & Sunday till 2am | Friday & Saturday till 5am Woven into the fabric of Sydney’s historic nightlife scene, The Abercrombie, reopened its doors at the end of 2022, equipped with a 24-hour licence an incredible transformation spanning across three levels. A creative chameleon, the Abercrombie’s curated events strive to foster inclusivity, diversity, and community and cater to an array of different music tastes across its three venues. On the ground floor is the Abercrombie’s incredible club, public bar, and beer garden; a space with a revolving door for non-stop parties and events hosted by some of the best tastemakers and party crews from around Sydney, Australia and the world. For a more relaxed atmosphere, venture upstairs to Casa Rosa, a playful, late-night Italo-disco cocktail lounge and rooftop terrace with an eclectic mix of DJs on high rotation throughout the week. Don’t forget to head into the adjoining terraces and experience the new aperitivo wine bar and shop, Lil Sis, also open until the early hours. Strawberry Hills Hotel at 453 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills Mon-Fri 9 am- 6 am | Sat 9am - 5am | Sun 10am - Midnight A humble local pub by day, the Strawberry Hills Hotel morphs into a classic Sydney late night bar once the sun goes down. Every weekend they bring in some of the city’s finest DJs to keep the party vibes going all through the night. Head to Strawberry Hills early for a hearty pub meal before partying the night away into the wee hours of the morning. Lansdowne Open Wed, Thursday 4pm-12am | Friday, Saturday - 12pm - 5am | Sunday - 12-10pm Nestled in the vibrant neighbourhood of Chippendale, this historic venue has been a beloved institution for music lovers for decades. The Lansdowne Hotel pulses with electric energy as talented local bands and international acts take the stage, igniting the crowd with their raw talent and infectious rhythms. The intimate atmosphere, coupled with the venue's rich history, creates a sense of connection and authenticity that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether you're a dedicated music enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable night out, the Lansdowne Hotel promises an immersive and unforgettable experience that will leave you craving more. Establishment Mon-Sat 10am - 3am Tucked away in the heart of the city, this renowned establishment sets the stage for an unforgettable party experience. As darkness falls, this elegant space knows its way around a party. Establishment is the grande dame of Sydney bars. The air buzzes with anticipation as conversations and laughter spill over the stunning marble bar. With its stylish décor and energetic vibe, Establishment Bar is the epitome of late-night allure in the bustling city. Employees Only Tue 5-11pm | Wed-Thurs 5pm - 12am | Fri-Sat 5pm - 2am Indulge in the enchanting atmosphere of Sydney's Employees Only bar, where vintage glamour meets modern allure. Tucked away in a hidden corner, this speakeasy-style gem beckons discerning patrons with its dimly lit, intimate ambiance. The air is thick with the scent of artisanal cocktails, expertly crafted by skilled mixologists. As the night unfolds, the bar becomes a haven for the city's trendsetters, who gather to savour the sophisticated libations, engage in lively conversations & be entertained by burlesque dancers. With its retro-inspired decor, plush green-velvet seating, and sultry jazz soundtrack, Employees Only transports guests to a bygone era, creating a seductive and unforgettable experience for all who step through its doors. Noir Fri to Sun 9pm - 3am Immerse yourself in the mysterious and alluring atmosphere of Sydney's Noir. Beneath the neon lights, a modern-day Sydney nightclub like you’ve never experienced it. Noir brings unforgettable style, luxury, and exclusivity to the Sydney nightlife scene. A neon wonderland designed by the interior savant Alex Zabotto-Bentley, Noir is a venue like no other. Drinks wise, Noir is synonymous with bottle service to private booths; get down there & party the night away in luxury. Sydney's Noir is a haven for those seeking an unforgettable night, where secrets are whispered, and the night unfolds with an air of tantalising mystery. The Argyle Wed-Thu 5pm - 1am | Fri-Sat 4pm - 3am | Sun 2pm - 10pm Discover the vibrant tapestry of musical experiences at The Argyle - a venue that promises to take you on an unforgettable sonic journey. Nestled within the historic confines of The Rocks, this iconic destination pulsates with a diverse range of sounds, catering to every musical palate. Inside a heritage building in the heart of Sydney’s most historic precinct, The Rocks, you’ll find Sydney’s best night out. Two centuries ago, this building was a warehouse called the Argyle Stores, but now it's a multi-story bar, live-music venue, and eatery. If you’re after a big night, delve deeper into the building and discover its many dance floors, bars, stages, and chill-out areas where thousands of locals have had their ‘best nights ever’. There are neon lights, local characters, and intimate performances by icons of house music, R&B and party anthems. Visit almost any night of the week and expect packed dancefloors and guaranteed good times. Chicane Fri-Sat 9pm - 3am Get ready for an adrenaline-fueled party experience at Sydney's Chicane, where the thrill of the night meets the pulsating beats of electronic music. Formerly known as Kandys but now painted orange, Chicane is home to RnB, table service and a state-of-the-art sound system. Hosting weekly house music events every Saturday night featuring local residents & International artists with a boiler room style setup. From dusk till dawn, Chicane offers a euphoric escape, making it the ultimate destination for those who crave the adrenaline rush of a wild night out. Cliff Dive | Basement, 16/18 Oxford St, Darlinghurst Thu-Sat 8pm-4am | Sun 10pm-4am If you feel like having a post-dinner boogie, The Cliff Dive would be a great destination for your group! Nestled underneath Oxford St you’ll find a sunken dancefloor decked out tiki-bar full of cocktails & rum. Darlo Bar | 306 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst Every day 12pm-Midnight Bursting with personality and a vibrant history, Darlo Bar, formally The Royal Sovereign Hotel, is a quirky locals bar in the heart of Darlinghurst. Over the decades, they've been home to politicians, art students, medical professionals, and Darlo locals who are looking for a happy time and good vibes. Bitter Phew | 1/137 Oxford St, Darlinghurst Tues - Thur 3pm - Midnight | Fri - Sat 2pm - 2am | Sun 2 - 10pm Escape the bustle of Oxford Street and head upstairs into a little slice of beer paradise. Sit at the large oregon bar & unwind with your favourite beer while watching the world go by on Oxford Street or head out the back to the keg garden. Ching-a-Lings | Level 1/133 Oxford St, Darlinghurst Tues - Wed 6 - 11pm | Thur 6pm - 2am | Fri 5pm-2am | Sat 6pm-2am | Sun 5-10pm Named after the famous New York biker gang of the 1970s, Ching–Lings is a compact, dimly lit bar with exposed-brick walls and low couches, plus a rooftop terrace and DJs. You won’t find any fancy cocktail lists or extravagant bar food here. It just beer, house wine and spirits. The Long Goodbye | 1/83 Stanley St, Darlinghurst Tues 4 - 11pm | Wed - Sat 4pm - Midnight A Film noir-inspired bar with classic & bespoke cocktails using house-made liqueurs on Stanley Street. At The Long Goodbye the drinks list is designed so any cocktail can be made in a couple of minutes. And there's no menu – you walk in, name a flavour and they'll make you something. If you have an update to our rundown of these Sydney late night bars and clubs, especially nightclub closing times, please let us know.

From sly-grog to razor gangs: How Kate Leigh became the Queen of Surry Hills and a legend in Sydney’s criminal history. Australia has had its fair share of brushes with royalty – be it state visits from The British Royal Family or our home-grown Danish Princess Mary – one monarch stands out from the rest – Kate Leigh, the infamous Queen of Surry Hills. Kate’s early life was plagued by trouble, perhaps setting the tone for her criminal affairs. Born in Dubbo in 1881, Kate experienced severe childhood neglect, resulting in her confinement to Sydney’s Parramatta Industrial School for Girls at only twelve years old and, in her late teens, took up sex work. At the age of nineteen, an unmarried Kate Beahan gave birth to her daughter Eileen in 1900. While Eileen’s parentage is debated, Kate married James Lee in 1902, with Eileen adopting the surname until her own marriage in 1920. While she had many names throughout her life – Katherine Barry, Kathleen Ryan, Kathleen Beahan – none stuck so well as Kate Leigh. Leigh, the surname of her first husband, James Lee (she later anglicised the surname after their separation), was the one she returned to in-between multiple marriages and de-facto relationships. Kate Leigh and the Sly-Grog Trade The sly-grog trade sprung up in Sydney in response to the forced closure of pubs and hotels at 6 pm, beginning in 1916. Kate's introduction to sly-grog dealing came with her second husband, Edward Barry. While their marriage was brief, the skills Kate developed during their time together would go on to define decades of crime in Surry Hills. Kate would continue to be a sly grog trader for over 35 years. Kate’s sly-grog dealing became so popular that her Lansdowne Street home, from which she operated, became known, unofficially, as the Lansdowne Hotel – not to be confused with its legal namesake operating in Chippendale. Kate’s Hotel didn’t only offer illegal alcohol but was also a brothel and the space from which she dealt drugs such as cocaine and opium. Her dealings became so popular that Kate expanded her business and, at the height of her success, amassed a large collection of buildings around Surry Hills from which to conduct her dealings. These locations were affectionately and covertly referred to as “Mum’s” so that customers could discreetly mention that they were “off to Mum’s for the evening”. Interestingly, the hardened madam, drug dealer, gang leader and sly-grog trader never drank alcohol or used drugs – likely a credit to her success. However, it was not only Kate’s vice offerings that made her so popular. Kate was also recognised as a charitable figure in her community – she routinely gave money to the homeless in her area as well as donating to the local Boy’s Home and purchasing pony rides for downcast children. Being a leading figure in Sydney’s underworld, Kate was not without run-ins with police or other criminals. Her biggest rival came in the form of Tilly Devine – the Queen of Wolloomooloo. Clashing Queens in Surry Hills Kate and Tilly had many similarities. Both were madams, sly-grog traders, and drug dealers. Both had worked as sex workers in their teens. Both accumulated large fortunes and notoriety. This is perhaps what led to their ferocious feud. In an attempt to maintain their power and claim in their respective areas of Sydney, Kate and Tilly’s animosity often turned violent, with the women and their respective “razor” gangs turning Sydney’s streets into battlefields. Their war lasted almost twenty years. Kate Leigh’s Demise Unfortunately for Kate, the Taxation Office caught up with her in 1954, sending her into bankruptcy. This, coupled with the abolishment of 6 pm closing hours in 1955, largely called for the end of the sly-grog trade. This spelled the end for Kate’s lavish wealth and lifestyle. In her later life, she lived with her nephew in her remaining Surry Hills property and was dependent on him for income and support. On February 4th of 1964, Kate Leigh suffered a stroke and died at St Vincent’s Hospital in Darlinghurst. Her funeral was attended by over 700 mourners – a clear example of her enduring legacy as The Queen of Surry Hills. By Isabella Edwards

Meet the man behind the incredible ‘Surry Hills Flowerhouse’, Nico Nicoson. Nico Nicoson’s vibrant murals, artworks and illustrations brighten public spaces and private collections worldwide - demanding attention wherever they are found. Nico’s eccentric and ultra-energetic pieces possess a sense of personality that is unique to his style that has made his work highly coveted. He has been working professionally as a mural artist, illustrator and designer in Sydney for over a decade and has created high-profile artworks for some of the world’s biggest brands, including Bailey Nelson, Samsung and Campari. It’s lucky for residents of Surry Hills that one of Nico’s works, ‘The Surry Hills Flowerhouse’, adorns the wall at 483 Riley St, Surry Hills. First painted in 2018, it has become a part of the local landscape. We were lucky enough to catch up with Nico to find out more about his career: All About Nico Nicoson Have you always been an artist/illustrator? I have always been an artist. Ever since I was very little, I knew that I would always make art. I have been working professionally as an artist for a little over ten years now. Did you study art? How did you gain experience? I began painting artwork in the street in the early 2000s just for fun. I studied both fine art and design after finishing school but learned most of what I know about creating art just by making lots of it! What’s your connection to Surry Hills? I was born a stone's throw away in Paddington. I have painted in the area quite a lot, and of course, enjoyed the local pubs. As a student, I got many of my essential calories from The Shakespeare's infamous $10 menu. Can you tell us about one of your greatest accomplishments? Making a living doing what I love for me is my greatest accomplishment. I am often hearing about people having to do work that they dislike and am very thankful that I am able to enjoy my time working. Can you pick a favourite work? It’s always my next one. Learning About ‘The Surry Hills Flowerhouse’ When was this work completed, and where can it be found? The Flowerhouse was painted in 2018. It stands at 483 Riley Street, just across from the Light Rail stop. Commissioned by the City of Sydney, what was the purpose of the mural? The mural was painted as a tribute to the area's rich history as a textile district. I wanted the artwork to feel uplifting and represent growth and progression. What inspired you to create this piece, specifically? I was definitely inspired by the area itself and its history as a vibrant textile district. The stories of local fashion and textile designers, such as Longina Phillips, had a huge influence on the ideation and concept development process. If you’ve already checked out ‘The Surry Hills Flowerhouse’ you can see more of Nico’s works and where to find them at his website and his Instagram. Website: www.artofnico.com Instagram: @nico_nicoson

Lamp For Mary - Lighting up Bourke Street, a beacon of hope for all women. Read more on Surry Hills In a laneway off Bourke Street in Surry Hills, a pink lamp glows brightly. It is a beacon of hope for women and queer people threatened by homophobic violence. The Lamp For Mary was created in 2010 and installed in 2011 as a response to the brutal attack of a lesbian woman in the laneway in 1996. Mary was beaten, raped, and left for dead by two men. She later found out that people in nearby buildings had seen and heard the attack but did not call the police. Thankfully Mary survived, but as you can imagine, she was severely traumatised. The attack on Mary shocked and outraged the community. In response, the South City Council and the Lesbian and Gay Anti-Violence Project launched a campaign to reclaim the laneway where the attack took place. As part of the project, a new artwork simply titled, Lamp For Mary, was commissioned by The City Of Sydney from local artist Mikala Dwyer. Dwyer's artwork is a way of reclaiming the laneway for women and queer people. The pink lamp is a symbol of hope and resilience. Dwyer says she hoped the lamp would act as both a memorial to victims of violence via its “pink eternal flame” and serve to illuminate the dark lane to make the zone protective of its community. Complementing the lamp itself is a passage of text on the walls. Written by poet Professor Michael Taussig the text reads, “This is a lane with a name and a lamp in memory of the woman who survived being beaten and raped here. She happened to be lesbian. When the sun sets this lamp keeps vigil along with you who read this in silent meditation.” Upon completion, the Lamp For Mary became the first place in Sydney dedicated to the display of a community’s commitment to ending homophobic violence. Since then, it has become a popular spot for people to visit and reflect. Now it is a place where people come to remember Mary and celebrate the strength and resilience of the LGBTQIA+ community. Lamp For Mary is a powerful reminder that violence against women and queer people is unacceptable. It also reminds us that we can all work together to create a safer world. About Mikala Dwyer Mikala Dwyer is a Sydney-based artist who works with a variety of mediums, including sculpture, installation, and video. Her work often explores themes of gender, sexuality, and violence. Dwyer has exhibited her work extensively throughout Australia and internationally. She has won numerous awards, including the Blake Prize for Religious Art and the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize. The Lamp For Mary is located in Mary’s Place, Surry Hills (Between Bourke St & Floods Place) To learn more about Mikala Dwyer and her work, visit her website at www.mikaladwyer.com.au By Jamie Apps

Have you always thought that farming was a regional activity? Aquaponics faming is changing that! More on Marrickville Field + Fin are challenging the status quo with their inner-city aquaponics farm set to open later this year. The distance from farm to table is about to get a whole lot shorter! What Is Aquaponics? “Aquaponics?” We hear you say – aquaponics is a farming strategy whereby nutrient water from fish waste is pumped through – in Field + Fin’s case – vertical gardens, where plants are able to extract their required nutrients. This leaves behind freshly filtered water that is delivered back to the water critters in a fantastically sustainable farming ecosystem. Any excess waste still floating around in the water is bottled and sold as a natural fertiliser that you can use on your plants at home! What’s more, aquaponics by Field + Fin uses 95% less water than traditional farming methods. Their online store is set to open within the month - there you will be able to purchase fresh, delicious produce such as relishes, smoked barramundi and freshly grown mushrooms. Campfire is their onsite kitchen cooking fresh, seasonal produce grown on the farm. Inspired by bush foraging and campfire cooking. They also run “Adventures by Campfire” – arranging international and domestic trips to learn about different ways of growing and preparing food in traditionally sustainable ways. Campfire is also the perfect spot to catch some live music and mingle with the Marrickville community! Additionally, a percentage of all profits from Field + Fin and Campfire goes to supporting their marine sanctuary in Papua New Guinea. Keen to know more? Head over to www.fieldandfin.com.au to learn more about their sustainability practices and check out their online store, launching soon!

The aroma of fine dining is strong at the Stinking Bishops in Newtown. More on Newtown By Alec Smart The Stinking Bishops is an unusually-named diner and cheese shop in Newtown. Don’t let the name put you off. It’s not run by a religious order and it doesn’t assault your olfactory senses, although Stinking Bishops is named after an infamously fragrant cheese that is hand-made in Gloucestershire, England (see history below, including link to Wallace and Gromit). The Stinking Bishops on Enmore Road Located on the northern side of Enmore Rd, 400 metres walk from Newtown Station, The Stinking Bishops resembles a small, exotic wine bar. To call the Stinking Bishops a restaurant is an understatement – it’s an appetising adventure for appreciators of cheese! In the words of owner-manager Valentina Massaccesi, “The Stinking Bishops is a culinary journey of cheese exploration where cheese lovers embark on a tantalising journey of flavours and textures…. It is a sanctuary where cheese aficionados come together, bonding over their shared love for all things cheesy.” Although the artisanal Stinking Bishop cheese that inspired the name is currently unavailable in Australia, Valentina and her partner, co-owner Stefano Voltattorni, have sourced a delightful equivalent, along with a fascinating choice of other dairy delights. “We curate a selection of the finest local and international cheeses,” she explained. “We are also famous for our delicious mac ‘n' cheese, cheese soufflé, baked camembert, and Italian style porchetta [pronounced ‘porketta’, a traditional pork dish from the Lazio region that is stuffed with herbs and roasted for many hours, resulting in a crackling skin].” Stinking Bishops owner-managers Stefano Voltattorni and Valentina Massaccesi. Photo: SB Questions for The Stinking Bishops Team So what might you expect when you enter the premises? “Our knowledgeable cheesemongers are always at hand, ready to guide you through this sensory adventure,” Valentina revealed, “with pairing suggestions that will elevate your cheese encounters to new heights. “We have recently introduced a Cheese and Wine pairing experience, now available during happy hour Tue – Fri, 5 - 6pm, as well as for private functions and offsite catering.” Hold on, cheese and wine pairing – what does that entail? “All our cheese and wine pairing are designed to balance the taste of both in your mouth,” Valentina explained. “A ‘sweet’ ends notes wine (like vanilla notes from the oak) can go well with a salty cheese; a wine with high acidity will go very well with a creamy cheese; a grassy Sauvignon Blanc will work well with goat's cheeses, generally speaking. “Essentially, the astringency of the wine (which causes your mouth to pucker) cuts through the fattiness of the cheese (which creates a slippery sensation in your mouth) to create a naturally balanced mouthfeel. She continued, “cheeses, unlike classic food, are a little more complicated to combine with wines due to the thousand nuances, pairings that are not done properly can give a ferrous result in the mouth, which absolutely makes it clear that it is not balanced. “Stefano and I taste cheese every day to grow our knowledge, but mainly to understand the taste and the flavours to be able to pair them with the right wine. Once you know how it works, it comes naturally organising combinations. “With regular events, tastings, and workshops, we foster a community of like-minded individuals, united by their appetite for exploration and the desire to deepen their understanding of cheese,” Valentina declared. “We also cater for offices/events with vibrant ‘grazing’ tables, and offer a variety of hampers and grazing boxes in different shapes for all celebrations.” Furthermore, The Stinking Bishops retail all their cheese and charcuterie separately in their on-site delicatessen, should you wish to take home a selection. So, whether you’re a connoisseur or merely curious, The Stinking Bishops welcomes you to embark on a culinary journey for an extraordinary cheese experience. The Stinking Bishops website Stefano Voltattorni with some of the cheeses available to take home. Photo: SB ==================== More About Cheese Varieties: There are around 2,000 cheese types in the world, of which France is estimated to make up to 1600 varieties. Origins: Although sheep and goats were domesticated in the Middle East approximately 10,500 years ago, the first evidence of cheesemaking appears in the art on Egyptian tomb walls that date back 4,000 years. Rarest and most expensive: Pule cheese is a blend of 60% Balkan donkey milk and 40% goat's milk. Only produced in a boggy wetland in central Serbia, it requires 25 litres of milk to produce a single kilogram and retails for around $2000 a kilogram. Most Popular: The most commonly eaten cheese in the world is Mozzarella, mainly due to its presence in pizzas, although countless pasta dishes call for its inclusion, as well as enchiladas, frittatas and risottos. Other top-sellers include Cheddar, Parmesan, Paneer, Feta, Ricotta, Gorgonzola, Camembert, and Brie. Smelliest: While Stinking Bishop is in most top 20 lists of the stinkiest cheeses of the world, others include Taleggio (Italy), Stilton (England), Limburger (Belgium), Robiola Lombardia (Italy) and Schloss (Austria), while France produces so many malodorous varieties that the authorities have prohibited the consumption of some on public transport. The French examples include Roquefort, Brie de Meaux, Epoisses de Bourgogne, Muenster, Camembert, Pont l’Eveque, Vieux Lille, Tomme de Chevre, Ami Du Chambertin, Le Pavin d'Auvergne, Pont l'Evêque, and Soumaintrain Berthaut. ==================== Screenshot from the animated feature film Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit Wallace and Gromit Stinking Bishop cheese gained international attention after it was associated with the stop-motion animated comedy duo, Wallace and Gromit. Created by Nick Park and Aardman Animations (Shaun the Sheep, Chicken Run, Flushed Away, etc.), the TV series and films feature an eccentric inventor and his highly intelligent beagle dog. Moulded from plasticene models, which are laboriously moved and individually photographed, the gadget-making, cheese-loving duo usually consume Wensleydale, sourced from North Yorkshire (where Wallace’s distinctive accent originates). However, in the 2005 internationally-successful and multi award-winning feature film The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, there is a key scene involving a wheel of Stinking Bishop cheese. Without spoiling the plot, it can be revealed that Gromit, the ever-faithful hound, revives his unconscious master at a country fair with the nearest equivalent of smelling salts. He grabs a wedge of the infamous smelly cheese from a display stand and waves it under Wallace’s nose. Wallace then awakens and takes a revitalising bite, declaring, “I’m back! Gromit, you clever mutt! Well done old pal!” Prior to the film’s release, Stinking Bishops manufacturer Charles Martell bemoaned the exposure, worrying public demand would require they abandon their limited-edition artisanal cheese for a supermarket-friendly, mass-produced product. However, although the publicity did wonders for their sales, the dairy delight has retained its reputation as a specialised, hand-crafted entity. Screenshot from the animated feature film Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit ==================== Stinking Bishops – origins of the strange name On 27 May 2009, at the inaugural (and so far as I know never repeated) Britain's Smelliest Cheese Championships held at The Royal Bath and West Show in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, England, the infamous Stinking Bishop cheese from Gloucestershire knocked out its rank-smelling rivals to gain gold status. The founder of Stinking Bishops cheese, Charles Martell, could have been inspired to name his aromatic product a colourful adjective, such as ‘smelly socks’, ‘swampy armpits’, ‘tangy toes’, but instead he named it after a type of pear that is brewed to make a perry (pear cider). Why? To answer that we need to wind the clock to 1972 when Martell began making a cheese from the milk of the Old Gloucester breed of cattle, which he almost single-handedly brought back from near-extinction (just 68 cows were still alive in 1972!). A quirky, but perfect name for a restaurant and cheese shop in Newtown. Varieties for Sale at The Stinking Bishop Cheese Shop in Newtown Stinking Bishop was created at Hunts Court Farm in Dymock, Gloucestershire, where it’s still made. During the ripening process, the cheese is formed into 2kg wheels then immersed in a perry four times over the succeeding months as it ripens. The rinsing produces a bacterium - Brevibacterium linens - that causes its characteristic pungent odour that resembles sweaty socks. The end result is a divinely-flavoured soft cheese with the consistency of clotted cream, albeit with a pale orange rind that is somewhat challenging on the nostrils (don’t consume it on public transport or in a crowded room!). Stinking Bishop cheese- the original whiffy dairy product from which the Sydney restaurant is named The fermented pear juice that Martell’s dairy uses comes from a variety of pear known as Stinking Bishop - hence the origin of the name of his infamous cheese. But how did the pear come to have such a strange name, especially as the fruit isn’t particularly fragrant. For the answer to this we have to wind the clock back another 150+ years, although we only need travel a few miles north into the county of Herefordshire. Stinking Bishop pear, Pyrus communis (also known as the Moorcroft or Malvern pear), was grown by farmer Frederick Bishop in the early 19th century near Ledbury village in the Malvern Hills of Western England. Bishop grew the pears on his property, Moorcroft Farm, and brewed a perry to supply his love of liquor. Farmer Bishop cultivated the variant with reduced acidity and more prominent flavours, which made it popular among regional perry brewers. However, he reportedly had a difficult demeanour and an effluvium that hung about him from poor hygiene – both of which contributed to his nom de plume as ‘Stinking’ Bishop. According to legend, Bishop was infamously irascible when intoxicated - which was often! Charles Martell recalled an urban legend when the cantankerous cultivator blasted his kettle with a shotgun when it wouldn’t boil fast enough! Some of the cheese and charcuterie options available at The Stinking Bishop in Newtown, Sydney.

Fifty years of age is prime time for a midlife crisis but instead of turning angst into odd behaviour, Balmain’s independent bookshop Roaring Stories underwent a glow-up. More on Balmain Starting a Balmain Book Store for the Community The shop formerly known as Brays Books opened in Darling Street in 1969 and stayed in the Brays family for a couple of generations. In 2019, Daniel Jordon and Claire Gorman purchased the business with a long-term goal in mind: to make it a community space. Roaring Stories is the result. Far from being naïve dreamers, Jordon says they deliberately sought the store because of its independence and its relationship with the neighbourhood. “From a retail perspective, one of the strongest elements of a vibrant community is for the high street to have a vibrant independent bookstore, and we saw that,” he explains. “While the bookshop had a wonderful heritage, we could also see there were opportunities for us to bring in new initiatives. A bookstore is not just a retail business but is genuinely contributing to the social fabric or the cultural fabric of the community. And that really goes to the core of what we do.” Before Roaring Stories, Jordon “had various roles in and out of the book industry both in retail and on the publishing side”, plus worked for the commercial arm of the ABC, which gave him a perspective that encompasses both the arts and culture side and the retail business view. While he doesn’t live in Balmain, he has family in the area and knew the people here would understand their vision. “Balmain is a unique community, not only in Sydney, but I think it's unique in Australia. I think there's a greater appreciation for independent businesses that are vibrant and different as opposed to chains that are everywhere,” he notes. The shop underwent some significant changes: a rebrand to Roaring Stories, an improved store design and layout, and an overhaul of the stock mix and range. But there was one element the pair didn’t want to change – the people. “The main thing we retained were the staff – one member's been there for nearly 25 years,” Jordon remarks. “There's that sense of continuity and deep personal relationships between staff and the community.” These team members, most of whom are voracious readers with broad interests, often have a say in the books they bring in, which in turn has a connection to what does well in the store. And you may also have noticed a fresh website and the Roaring Stories events program, which regularly sells out. Roaring Stories Events Events are core to community engagement and exemplify the interpersonal aspects of what the pair are building in Balmain. One memorable evening was when author Heather Rose came to Balmain to talk about her memoir, Nothing Bad Ever Happens Here, with ABC Radio National’s Kate Evans, Jordon recounts. “She's a very highly credentialled, well-established author, but the powerful nature of the conversation that she had with the host interviewer was quite possibly one of the most powerful exchanges with an author that I've ever witnessed. The impact that it had on the audience that night was quite profound. It was very special.” While running a bookshop has been challenging – not least since their first few years were interrupted with Covid lockdowns and they’re now contending with economic uncertainty as they cross their fingers for a strong gift-giving season – Jordon confirms there have been plenty of moments to celebrate. “It's a very creative thing to run a bookstore. We put a lot of effort and attention and focus on how we're curating the range, how we bring authors into the community, run an events program. We're very cognisant of the role that this bookshop has played in the community for such a long period of time under the one owner; we're very mindful of the foundations, and what we've sought to do is try and build on that and improve the bookshop – not to take away from what is already established,” he says. “The most rewarding thing is connection to community and being valued by the community.” Favourite Spots Around Balmain If you’re planning a day out in Balmain, Daniel Jordon of Roaring Stories Bookshop says you can’t go wrong with a morning dip. “I think an absolute must start of the day would be a swim at Dawn Fraser pool. I'd suggest also then having breakfast at Bertoni and just watch the world go by.” Later on, pop in at the Royal Oak “who do a great pub lunch” and “wind up the afternoon down at White Bay brewery,” he recommends. Dawn Fraser Baths, Elkington Park Balmain Bertoni, 281 Darling Street, Balmain Royal Oak, 36 College Street, Balmain White Bay Beer Co, 26C Mansfield St, Rozelle Roaring Stories is located at 268 Darling Street, Balmain. Website here. By Adeline Teoh

More on Surry Hills The Big 2-0! The iconic Record Store in Surry Hills is turning 20! We caught up with co-owner and vinyl connoisseur Steph Györy to find out how the Record Store has changed over the last couple of decades. Surry Hills’ legendary Record Store is celebrating the BIG 2-0 this December, but they are showing no signs of slowing down with age! Like most twenty-somethings, they’re energetic, excited, and looking to the future! Since opening its doors in 2004, the Record Store has witnessed the ever-changing and rapidly evolving music landscape of the last 20 years. Including what Steph refers to as the “downturn in vinyl from 2005 to 2015ish”. Throughout it all, The Record Store has been an enduring fixture of Sydney’s musical landscape. History of The Sydney Record Store As card-carrying members of the Flat Music Society, the Record Store has been committed to delivering the best music experiences and expertly selected collections for the Surry Hills community for the last twenty years. We asked Steph how he thinks the area has changed in that time. “I think the character of the area has remained the same, but obviously, there’s been a lot of turnover in businesses, and club life is not what it used to be; even though there are still some great things happening, life is change, and I think the area is just as much fun now as it was back then. And will continue to be so.” In the next 20 years, Steph would like to see the Record Store “Hopefully, in a building we own, i.e., still around.” “But more than here in the same place - or somewhere close by if they decide to knock this building down like they did our last one. “ Steph also cheekily suggested that all Surry Hills locals should invest in “The Eastside Sydney Micro precinct walking guide.” Surely, that’s a map that leads directly to Sydney’s iconic home of vinyl, The Record Store at 302 Crown Street, Surry Hills.

More on St Ives How artist Suzanne Lane captures the beautiful St Ives bushland in her artwork. We meet Suzanne Lane, St Ives artist Local artist, Suzanne Lane, is a lover of nature and finds such joy from being out in the surrounding bushland. She translates this love into her beautiful artworks which are often exhibited in the local St Ives Shopping Village. Suzanne’s passion for art spans many decades having attended The National Art School in the 60’s and exhibiting widely in the 70’s, including joint exhibitions with her artist mother and being a Finalist in major exhibitions such as the Archibald, Sulman and Portia Geach exhibitions. She taught Secondary School Visual Arts for over 30 years. Suzanne is this edition’s cover artist, so we sat down with her to understand her journey and artistic process. You’re part of the Ku-ring-gai Art Society (KAS). What is a core value of the KAS that you want people to know about? It was only after I retired from my position as a local high school art teacher that I had time to return to my passion for painting and exhibiting. I wanted to be an active member of KAS, so I immediately joined the committee and became part of the team organising and installing the exhibitions. KAS is a community of like-minded people with a passion for art and I have made life-long friendships since joining. What do you think is special about the St Ives Shopping Village exhibiting your work and other local artist's pieces? KAS has had a long association with the St Ives Shopping Village for nearly 50 years. They are an amazing team to work with and have been a huge sponsor and support to our society throughout the years, especially during our major awards exhibition in July and providing us with our new gallery space. The locals are also great art lovers, purchasing works and attending our exhibitions. It is so good to have such an appreciative viewing audience, especially when children take an interest and discuss the works! How do you decide which bushland scenes to capture in your art? I choose subjects that I am most familiar with. I walk straight out of my house and into the bush and often suddenly see a familiar scene from a new perspective or in a different light. I like to create atmosphere and to show the patterns in nature rather than replicate a scene. The birds and animals are often present around our house as well and we often have to chase a lyrebird, turkey and water dragon out of our home on occasion! Tell us why you love showcasing the St Ives flora and fauna in your artwork? I have lived in the area (North Turramurra) for 40 years. When you’re out in the bushland environment you often see the local fauna and it is so abundant because we are adjoining the amazing Ku-ring-gai National Park. Lyrebirds, lizards, brush turkeys, magpies, echidnas, and wallabies…. they are all an endless source of inspiration! The angophoras at this time of year are also one of my favourite subjects. Did I mention the flannel flowers? What do you hope viewers of your artwork feel when they engage with your pieces? I paint subjects to which I have had an emotional response, so I hope to share these feelings with the viewer and to create an atmosphere through the visual elements of colour, tone and pattern. I want to create an immersive experience that heightens the senses so that it feels like you are surrounded by the place yourself. A lot of your artwork integrates almost 3D looking elements with the gum leaves and some of the animals you depict. Can you talk about this process? I am always conscious of the fact that I am depicting a 3D subject on a 2D surface, and I like to play with the notion of illusion and to juxtapose expressive fluid brushstrokes against hard-edged flat shapes that appear to float above the surface. I also like to explore the positive/negative portrayal of a subject. I am always exploring new ways of representation. If you had to pick, what’s your favourite Australian animal to capture in your artwork? How do I choose a favourite animal? My favourite is the one I am working on at the time! I have come to love and interact with so many animals in my local environment: the dancing lyrebird tapping at the window; the water dragon watching from a rock as I hang out the washing; the turkey strutting past, hoping to scavenge a morsel. What’s your favourite time of the day to capture in your artwork? Each time of day creates a new atmosphere, even the rainy days are special, but the slanting rays of light in the morning and late afternoon often provide a sudden flash of colour that can add excitement to a composition, especially when the angophoras are at their brightest! What colours do you love painting with the most to capture Australian nature? The Australian Impressionists in the late 19th century were the first to recognise the unique colours of the Australian bush and we still see the bush through their eyes, the blue, gold and those dusty greens! Which is your favourite walking track in St Ives? There are many walking trails around St Ives, but nothing beats the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden for both ease of access and variety of terrain, from tree fern gullies and creeks to the more open scrubland. There is always a surprise encounter with one or two of the local animals, a wallaby or a red-tailed cockatoo! It is a magical place to explore with children. Thank you, Suzanne Lane, for sharing your story. See more of Suzanne's work here.

Romance writer & Northern Beaches local Amy Hutton talks about her upcoming novel, becoming a full-time author, & how living on the Beaches inspires her. More on Dee Why Amy Hutton's TV Days In her previous life, Amy Hutton was a senior producer working in network television. Nowadays, she is one of the newest faces in the Sydney book scene! Roughly six years ago, Amy stumbled across an old file of a manuscript she had begun writing years earlier. A year later, she made the change and became a full-time romance author. “I had quite a senior role, and I think I got to a stage where I was wondering if I just kept doing the same thing or should I try something new,” Amy told Neighbourhood Media. Amy Hutton “Network TV can be quite reactionary, and you often don’t know what you’re walking into on any given day. The more I thought about writing as a possibility for my future, of trying to finish the novel, of really spending some time learning the craft, the more excited I got about the idea, and the more I grew to understand how passionate I was about it.” “I’ve always loved writing, and it’s something I’ve done on and off my entire life. English was my best and favourite subject at school and that love of words continued through from childhood to adulthood. I wanted to challenge myself to write a novel. I wasn’t sure if I could, but I wanted to give it a shot. “Once I started, I knew I’d just keep going.” Amy's First Book - Sit, Stay, Love Five years later, Amy’s debut novel, Sit, Stay, Love, was published in August 2023. Sit, Stay, Love is a heart-warming love triangle between Sera, a pet-shelter owner, her best friend Toby and silver-screen superstar Ethan James, featuring a multitude of furry creatures – the charming read also takes place on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Amy Hutton - Sit, Stay, Love Described as “a mix between the joyous chaos of Bridget Jones with the heart and kindness of All Creatures Great Small,” Amy recalled her writing process for Sit, Stay, Love. “Sit, Stay, Love came to me as the scene that opens the book. It just downloaded into my brain, and I had to get it down. Then I went back to the other book I was writing, the second book in a paranormal rom-com series I have planned. “But Sit, Stay, Love would not leave me alone! So, I put the other book aside and wrote Sit, Stay, Love instead. “It wasn’t a long or difficult process. It pretty much flowed out of me, and it probably took me 3 – 4 months to get the first draft down. I’m a member of Romance Writers of Australia, and a couple of my fellow aspiring writers agreed to read the first draft for me and give me some feedback. When I got a very positive response from them, I thought I might be onto something.” “I come from a background where I am very used to having outside input into my creative work. That happened daily in my TV job, and as a creative manager myself, I also gave creative feedback to the producers on my team. I think that experience has helped me in the process of editing and publishing. “I love knowing that we’re all caring for the same thing and have the same goal: a great book.” Sit, Stay, Love is definitely a read for pet lovers - Amy noted that her own love of rescue animals played a role in writing her novel. “I think the story came from my love and experience with my own rescue dogs, Harry and Buffy, who both star in Sit, Stay, Love. I’m passionate about animal rescue, and it was important to me that the story didn’t just give the human characters their happy-ever-after but that the shelter animals got theirs as well.” Drawing on Local Experiences But it wasn’t just her pups that inspired Amy – Australia and the Northern Beaches proved a fruitful source of creative stimulation as well. “I think it’s important to have stories in Australian voices, especially in the romance genre, which is heavily populated with very successful American romance authors. “I also wanted to write something local to the area I grew up in. I was inspired to set Sit, Stay, Love on the Northern Beaches because I love this area, and I wanted to share that love. The environment around the Beaches is so diverse I knew I could have a movie star who lived overlooking a beach, a rescue shelter on a property big enough to house a sheep and a horse, world-class restaurants for romance to blossom in, and plenty of other places to have fun with — from bush settings to urban. “The Northern Beaches became a bit of a character in the book, and being familiar with the area and having lived in various spots around the Beaches, definitely was a creative inspiration.” Second Book - Love from Scratch Once locals have devoured Sit, Stay, Love, Amy has another delicious romance novel on the way – Love from Scratch will be released later this year. Amy describes Love from Scratch as a “funny and fresh, opposites attract rom-com about a heart-throb actor, the grumpy woman who minds his beloved dog and the cat that steals his heart.” Sit, Stay, Love book signing Being her second novel, Love from Scratch followed a slightly different process to writing Sit, Stay, Love. “Sit, Stay, Love I just wrote for me, hoping one day maybe someone might like it enough to publish it, but I was to my own timeline, working to my own expectations and nothing else. “Love from Scratch was written to a contract. I had pitched the idea to my publisher, and happily they liked it and made me an offer, and then I went about writing it. So that in itself was a different process. “The exercise of writing was essentially the same; it did feel different somehow, and I think that was probably my fault because I felt the weight of the expectations that I didn’t have before. “In the long run…I ended up with something I absolutely love and can’t wait for people to read.” Love from Scratch is scheduled to hit shelves on June 5th this year! Northern Beaches Community Support Throughout her writing career, Amy has received plenty of support from the Northern Beaches’ community. “I’ve had a lot of support locally,” she confirmed, “from local online newspapers to bookshops promoting me as a local author, to local online groups like Northern Beaches Mums. I’ve also been taken under the wing of the wonderful and vibrant Northern Beaches author community. “I have visited all the local bookshops and booksellers who carry my book to sign it for them. The booksellers have all been amazing and super supportive.” For readers wanting more, Amy Hutton will appear at the Australian Romance Readers Event, A Romantic Rendezvous, on March 10 in Sydney. Of her upcoming appearance, Amy had this to say: “I love asking readers who their favourite character is - that’s so informative - and I love having those discussions with them, or hearing about their favourite part of the story. The romance reader community is so passionate and engaged; it really is a joy to be a part of”. Amy will be signing copies of Sit, Stay, Love as well as unveiling the cover for Love from Scratch at the March 10 event. You can also catch her at the inaugural Manly Writers’ Festival in March, doing a panel on writing romance as well as meeting readers and signing books. Amy will also appear at other events throughout the year as well as in podcasts and interviews – you can find the details for these and more information about book releases by following her socials or heading to her website: www.amyhuttonauthor.com Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and Facebook: @amyhuttonauthor Sit, Stay, Love is out now through Simon & Schuster Australia and is available via all good booksellers. Love from Scratch is out June 5 through Simon & Schuster Australia. Readers can expect more from Amy Hutton in 2025! By Isabella Edwards