Hearty Sunday Roasts in Balmain, served with all the trimmings at your favourite local pubs and clubs. More on Balmain When the weekend calls for comfort food, nothing beats a classic Sunday roast - and Balmain, Rozelle and Birchgrove deliver some of the best in Sydney. From slow-roasted meats and crisp potatoes to fluffy Yorkshire puddings and rich gravy, these local pubs and clubs know how to serve up tradition with a side of community warmth. Balmain Bowling Club 📍 156  Darling St, Balmain 📆 Available: Every Sunday, lunch & dinner For a classic, crowd-pleasing roast without breaking the bank, head to Balmain Bowling Club. Each Sunday, they offer a rotating roast- a different weekly feature like lamb, beef or pork - served with roast potato, pumpkin, cauliflower mornay, peas, and gravy. Priced at just $19.90 for members (or $25 for visitors), this hearty meal is ideal for a full, comforting feed that won’t break the budget - perfect for families or those looking for good value and generous portion sizes. The London Hotel 📍 234 Darling St, Balmain 📆 Sundays, from 12 pm until sold out Sink into a beautifully traditional Sunday roast at The London Hotel. Expect succulent choices - think sirloin of beef, pork belly and loin, lamb shank or vegetarian nut roast - accompanied by roast potatoes, parsnip, autumn greens, Yorkshire pudding, and rich gravy. Situated on Darling Street, this beloved pub combines hearty fare with a warm, community-driven vibe - often paired with live acoustic music in the afternoon (3–6 pm). A perfect weekend treat that feels timeless and nourishing The Riverview Hotel 📍 29 Birchgrove Rd, Balmain 📆 Sundays, 12 pm–9 pm The Riverview Hotel serves a signature roast that’s as comforting as its scenic riverside setting. For around $34, dig into a traditional roast beef complete with baked vegetables, seeded mustard jus, and Yorkshire pudding. Available all day on Sundays (lunchtime through dinner), it’s a flexible option for a lazy weekend bite. According to Time Out and others, this local gem continues to earn praise not only for the food but also for its welcoming atmosphere and reliable service. The Royal Oak 📍 36 College St, Balmain 📆 Sundays, 11am till sold out Nestled in a historic corner building, The Royal Oak’s Sunday roast is a local favourite that pulls in gatherings from near and far. For around $32.50, expect generous servings of Berkshire pork or White Pyrenees lamb, complete with all the trimmings - roast veggies, Yorkshire pudding, and rich house gravy. Given its popularity, especially in winter, consider calling ahead or placing a preorder to secure your share.

SmartFone FlickFest (SF3) is back for its 11th year, bigger, bolder, and better than ever. The 2026 Smartfone Flickfest (SF3) attracted more than 450 entries (!) from over 60 countries, reflecting SF3's truly global reach. This year's event is extra special with the Gala being held at iconic Sydney Opera House on January 23rd, 2026. Submissions for this year's festival came from filmmakers of all ages and walks of life. There were four year old entrants, and there were seventy-nine year old entrants, as well as a range of contributions from creators living with disability, neurodiverse school groups, and Indigenous filmmakers - many of which were supported through SF3’s workshops. The festival kicks off on Friday 23 January , when the Gala Finals light up The Playhouse at the Sydney Opera House. You can watch 16 of the best smartphone short films alongside industry judges, special guests, filmmakers and their stars. Then celebrate with the winners as over $50,000 in prizes are awarded across 36 categories. Next up at The Playhouse, the SF3 Kids Finals  on Saturday 24 January.  Featuring   the best films made by storytellers aged 18 and under. From laugh-out-loud shorts to deeply personal pieces, the kids’ program is often one of the festival’s most uplifting showcases. On Sunday 25 January , the festival shifts to the Palace Chauvel Cinema in Paddington  for a day dedicated to innovation and experimentation. The SF3 Mini  finalists present films three minutes or less – this year responding to the theme ‘Breath’  – while the Feature Film finalists  highlight just how far smartphone cinema can go. SF3 also continues to lead the conversation around creative technology with its AI Best Film Award , returning for its second year after a fourfold increase in entries. Tez Frost’s The 5-Minute Empire , a hybrid live-action/AI work shot in a single afternoon, becomes the first AI film to be selected for the Gala Finals , marking a major milestone for the festival. Festival Director Angela Blake  says this year’s program represents the most diverse and creatively ambitious selection to date: “The quality of storytelling and cinematic use of phones blew us away this year. We’re so proud to screen these films at the Sydney Opera House – it’s a phenomenal moment for smartphone cinema and independent filmmakers everywhere.” SF3’s superstar Ambassadors include Phillip Noyce, Kriv Stenders, Kerry Armstrong, Nicole da Silva , and more – a powerhouse lineup championing accessible filmmaking and the next generation of storytellers. Whether you’re into boundary-pushing shorts, international cinema, emerging young talent or simply love seeing creativity thrive, SF3’s 11th season is set to be a standout celebration of filmmaking without limits. Smartfone Flick Fest 2026 Sydney Opera House, January 23-25 Tickets on sale now: sf3.com.au

Experience Unforgettable Fireworks, Parties, Cruises and Family Fun This New Year’s Eve Sydney Sydney is world‑famous for its New Year’s Eve Sydney celebrations — a dazzling night of fireworks, music, parties, cruises and vibe‑filled events that welcome the new year in unforgettable style. Whether you’re planning a local celebration or hosting visiting friends and family, here’s the must‑read guide  for making the most of New Year’s Eve Sydney this year. Iconic Sydney Harbour Fireworks — The Heart of NYE The most anticipated moment of New Year’s Eve Sydney is undoubtedly the fireworks over Sydney Harbour, launched from multiple barges and iconic landmarks including the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Displays begin with the 9 pm family fireworks and climax with the midnight spectacular - a tradition that draws crowds from across the globe. If you want guaranteed access to a prime vantage point, make sure to plan ahead - popular spots such as Cahill Expressway offer limited ticketed entry via free public ballot  for NSW residents. Top Events Happening in Sydney on New Year’s Eve Sydney 🎶 Harbour Party at Luna Park Sydney Dance under the stars and enjoy panoramic views of Sydney Harbour with unlimited rides and a pulsating DJ lineup at Harbour Party 2025  - one of Sydney’s biggest ticketed NYE events. Doors open from 6 pm until early morning, blending music, fun and fireworks in a truly unique setting. Details: harbourparty.com/homepage-2025/ 🚢 Sydney Harbour New Year’s Eve Fireworks Cruises Experiencing New Year’s Eve and Sydney's Iconic New Year's Eve fireworks from the water is an experience like no other. Avoid the crowds and put yourself right in front of the action. These cruises are among the most immersive ways to enjoy New Year’s Eve Sydney — book early as tickets sell out fast. 360° Fireworks Cruise  — A 6‑hour all‑inclusive celebration aboard a vessel like LeBleu  with food, drinks and DJs, perfectly positioned inside the exclusion zone for front‑row views of both the 9 pm and midnight displays. Constellation Cruise  — Includes rooftop viewing decks, roaming canapés, live entertainment and a full bar, plus unobstructed vantage points of the fireworks. Sydney Showboat NYE Cruise  — Enjoy a five‑star cabaret show, five‑course dinner and 🎤 New Year’s Eve at the Sydney Opera House For a more cultural start to the night, New Year’s Eve Sydney  offers special performances at the Sydney Opera House. Choose from gala concerts or staged productions in the Concert Hall or Joan Sutherland Theatre, combining world‑class arts with the festive spirit. 🍹 NYE Rooftop & Party Events Across Sydney From elegant harbour‑view dinners to lively rooftop parties, there’s no shortage of great event options: Rooftop celebrations  at venues like Sydney Harbour YHA offer scenic views and live entertainment. NYE Pub Crawls & Club Nights  — For those after a high‑energy party scene, Sydney hosts bar crawls that take in multiple hotspots across the CBD late into the night. Pier One Sydney Harbour NYE Party  — Dance the night away with headline performers and a premium dinner package right on the waterfront. Family‑Friendly NYE Sydney Not everyone stays up until midnight, and Sydney caters beautifully for families too: 9 pm family fireworks  are a perfect earlier spectacle for younger guests. Many cruises include options suitable for children. Public viewing areas open earlier in the evening with planned entertainment and community atmosphere. Tips for Making the Most of New Year’s Eve Sydney Timing Is everything:  Popular viewing areas fill hours  before the fireworks - plan to arrive early for the best change of a great vantage point. Transport:  Always a great option on NYE with so many road closures - expect extra public transport services and check schedules ahead of time. Safety First:  Stay hydrated, keep valuables secure, and set a meetup spot with friends if separated in crowds. Final Countdown: Make New Year’s Eve Sydney Unforgettable From world‑renowned fireworks illuminating Sydney Harbour to epic party cruises and rooftop celebrations, New Year’s Eve Sydney  offers an unmatched blend of spectacle, culture and fun. Whether it’s a family‑friendly night out or a high‑energy countdown with friends, this year’s celebrations promise to be extraordinary. Get ready Sydney  - 2026 is calling! 🌟

Your guide to find Sydney's best Christmas light displays this festive season. Sydney lights up beautifully each December with a huge variety of Christmas Lights. From understated fairy lights to blindingly bright displays and full-blown Christmas wonderland walkthroughs, there is no shortage of Christmas lights right across Sydney. Here’s our guide to help you find Sydney's best Christmas lights. 📍 North Shore ⭐ St Ives & Upper North Shore 26 Nicholson Avenue, St Ives  – classic big lights display supporting charity. Borgnis St, Davidson - huge, interactive walk through display Hall Road, Hornsby Ryan Ave, Hornsby Heights ⭐ Mosman Prince Albert Avenue, Mosman  – one of Sydney’s staple Christmas light streets. 2 Magic Grove, Mosman  – giant Santa, music and bubbles — great for kids. ⭐ Northern Beaches Gondola Rd, Narrabeen – various houses participating right along the street, great for an evening walk. ⭐ Willoughby & Lower North Shore First, Second, Third & Fourth Avenues, Willoughby  – great for a festive walk! Emmett Street, Crows Nest   ⭐ Other Locations 28 Lockwood Street, Asquith  – synchronised lights with music. Sydney Road (including Brett Ave, Margaret Ave, Plateau Close), Hornsby Heights  – around 50 homes decorated. 22 Bradfield Road, Lindfield  & 22 Adelaide Avenue, East Lindfield  – established individual displays. 📍 Sydney CBD Martin Place Christmas Tree & Cross Mall Lighting  – Sydney's most iconic Christmas light display. St Mary’s Cathedral Projections  – nightly façade light projections throughout December. Darling Harbour & Darling Square  – themed light installations and glowing pathways. Queen Victoria Building (QVB)  – a stunning festive installation inside the historic shopping centre, complete with animated displays and Christmas decorations. 📍 Inner West (Newtown – Marrickville & Nearby) Second Street, Ashbury (nearby Inner West but often visited with Newtown/Marrickville routes)  – nearly every house lit up with Christmas lights, many supporting charity efforts. Burwood Road, Concord   – 100,000+ lights with music-sync at No.191. ** This information is based on previous year's participants, and on-the-ground Christmas light-viewing from our dedicated team. If you would like to report any changes, or new locations - please email info@neighbourhoodmedia.com.au

Lady Gaga turns Accor Stadium into a queer wonderland. By Aaron Little Sydney didn’t just host a concert— it hosted a full-scale gay awakening as Lady Gaga stormed Accor Stadium and reminded us exactly why she remains pop’s ultimate queer icon. It was loud, theatrical, sweaty in the best possible way, and dripping in the kind of unapologetic energy that only Mother Monster can deliver. From the first note, the stadium was hers. Gaga moved effortlessly between high- camp spectacle and raw vocal moments, tearing through a career-spanning set that hit all the right spots. This was pop at its most confident — big hooks, bigger visuals and a performer completely in control of her power. Dress Code: Gaga, Obviously Let’s talk about the crowd — because wow. Accor Stadium felt less like a sporting venue and more like a Saturday night dancefloor on Oxford Street. The dress-up was next-level: leather harnesses, latex catsuits, disco glam, Chromatica pinks, Born This Way horns, and enough looks to keep fetish stores in business for years. It was genuinely refreshing to see so many people commit to the theme and the moment. No half-measures, no playing it safe — just thousands of queers and allies dressing up, showing skin, serving looks and fully leaning into the fantasy. The vibe? Confident, sexy, joyful. Exactly how a Gaga crowd should be. Born This Way Hits Different — Still Then came Born This Way, and the tone shifted — not softer, but deeper. Before launching into the song, Gaga spoke about identity, self-acceptance and community, grounding the spectacle in something real. When the chorus hit, the stadium erupted into a full-body sing-along that felt less like nostalgia and more like a reaffirmation. More than a decade on, Born This Way still lands because it still matters. It’s a reminder that queer visibility isn’t a trend — it’s survival, celebration and resistance rolled into one very loud chorus. More Than a Pop Star Lady Gaga’s relationship with the LGBTQI+ community has never felt performative. From day one, she’s stood with us — publicly, politically and personally. Her advocacy for queer and trans rights, combined with the work of the Born This Way Foundation, has cemented her legacy as more than just a pop superstar. She’s family. That connection was written all over the night — in the crowd, in the lyrics, and in the way Gaga fed off the energy right back at us. This wasn’t a one-way performance; it was a mutual exchange of love, sweat and solidarity. Sydney, You Were That Girl By the final song, Accor Stadium was buzzing — a sea of raised hands, messy hair, smudged makeup and satisfied smiles. This was one of those nights that reminds you why live music, queer spaces and pop culture still matter. Lady Gaga didn’t just put on a show — she gave Sydney a night to remember. And judging by the outfits, the energy and the very hoarse voices this morning, the gays will be talking about this one for a long time.

The award-winning Sydney Brewery brand expands to White Bay, with Sydney Brewery Rozelle now open. By Alec Smart Sydney Brewery, founded 2005 in Surry Hills, have recently opened their brand new venue in the historic White Bay Power Station, close to Sydney Harbour in Rozelle. Announcing the purchase of the former White Bay Brewery in Rozelle in September 2025, which is located within a 150-year-old former steel mill on south-western tip of the bay, Sydney Brewery were quick to revitalise the site, which has been open since early December. Neighbourhood Media caught up with Richard Feyn, Marketing Manager at Sydney Brewery, for an update on the exciting new acquisition and their future plans. How is the Rozelle brewery transformation progressing? It's going great! We officially launched on Dec 1, with Mayor Darcy Byrne helping our owner, Jerry, cut the ribbon! Tricia and the A-Team from Alexandria have been awesome in getting things running smoothly, as have the great White Bay Brewery team who've come across. It's a great location, especially considering the current redevelopment of the area and the brewery's proximity to the new Sydney Fish Markets. The 150-year-old building was originally a steelworks. What can you reveal about the history of the site? The history of a site and suburb are always of interest, in particular we delved into the history of Rozelle to discover the Rosella bird had migrated from Rosehill (being the Rosehill Parrot), so this has inspired the top half of our logo character. The bottom of half of course being the Tiger, which speaks for itself. We hope it does anyway! The media release states the new Rozelle brewery will enable the company to launch new product lines and to achieve your goal of expanding your range of beers and ciders, including low-carb and non-alcoholic beers. Yes, stay tuned, we'll be announcing some new product releases for early in the New Year. In particular, we are excited about the release of our first low carb beer in packaging! Sydney Brewery is the recipient of many awards. Do you have a Head Brewer who fine-tunes the winning flavours, or is it more of a team effort? We have head brewers in each brewery, with Nathan Holgersson coming across from White Bay Brewery to be our Rozelle Head Brewer and oversee brewing operations across the group. Ultimately though, it's a collaborative effort, the brewers all work together. Any other awards in recent history we should mention? Major Award for 2025 was winning the inaugural 'Champion Cider Producer' at AIBA (Australian International Beer Awards). Other than that, a few Golds including AIBA for our new Lemon Twist Cider and our South East Ale. And Sydney Royal Gold for our Pilsner, Lumberjack Rye IPA and Speak Easy Black IPA. As well as seven core beers plus seasonal brews, Sydney Brewery has four core ciders. Are there seasonal ciders too? We make a series of flavoured ciders ongoing for draught each year. Plus, our two new flavours in pack Lemon and Blackcurrant started as limited editions but look like consolidating in our core range ongoing. There's always room for experimentation with ciders; we have a few new things planned for 2026. Do you find that beer aficionados who visit your breweries in Surry Hills, Alexandria and now Rozelle favour different flavours? No, no set rule applies here, it's a variety of drinkers and choices in each location; All Kinds of Different rings true. What inspired the logos and the company slogan, "All kinds of different?" The characters are essentially inspired by the suburbs the beers were previously named after - Surry Hills Pils (now Pilsner) showing a combination of the head of Kate Leigh, wings for the Birdman of Surry Hills and shears representing the rag trade that is centred in Surry Hills. Paddo Pale (now Pale Ale), showing the gentrified male smoking a pipe with flower protruding. All a bit eccentric and eclectic, like the rich tapestry of characters that make up Sydney. To this end, like our own staff across four breweries and our diverse range of products, they are All Kinds of Different. Considering other breweries often choose bizarre titles for their companies – named after their children, or ex-politicians, or obscure historical references - how did you come to choose the sensible ‘Sydney Brewery’ as the brand name? Actually, I developed the brand Sydney Cider many years ago, and the original Schwartz Brewery morphed into Sydney Brewery on the back of that. Of course, all the touch points of Sydney Cider as a brand apply to Sydney Brewery; aspirational, harbour and beaches lifestyle, great dining and sporting options - it has something for everyone. Anything you'd like to add? We are thrilled to be part of Tiger Town and the diverse village that Balmain and Rozelle represent. The locals have been very welcoming, and it already feels like home. Sydney Brewery 📍 26 B Mansfield Street Rozelle Website: https://sydneybrewery.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SydneyBrewery/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sydneybrewery/ ============================

The Fur Salon & Dental is here to raise the standard and removing the stress of pet dental care & grooming. The Fur Salon Step inside The Fur Salon in Queens Park and you’ll notice something different, there’s no mad barking or chaos in the atmosphere. The air smells fresh, the space is calm, and the interior fit-out makes it feel more like a day spa than a grooming salon. That’s because The Fur Salon was designed with one mission: to raise the standard of pet care. Founded by Anneke van den Broek, creator of Rufus & Coco and lifelong animal advocate, The Fur Salon values pets as family - offering comfort and expert care every visit. Unlike most salons, there are no cages here. Every pet enjoys a private suite with a comfy bed, toys and treats, so they can feel relaxed and at home. A Luxury Experience Before every appointment, expert Furologists spend time with each pet parent, to tailor the experience to suit the pet’s temperament, coat type, and lifestyle. Whether your pup has sensitive skin, a tangled coat, or first-groom nerves, the The Fur Salon team works at your pet’s pace to ensure a calm, positive experience. The service menu is just as thoughtful. The ULTI-MUTT Full Groom is the most popular choice: a soothing wash, pawdicure, ear clean, breed-specific cut, and a spritz of Rufus & Coco’s 4-in-1 Pamper Spray. Other favourites include the Dapper Doggo tidy and de-matting treatments, while puppies are welcomed with a free first groom - a gentle way to build trust from day one. And it’s not just for dogs. The Fur Salon also caters to cats, with a dedicated feline menu delivered in a quiet, cat-friendly space. The Great Catbsy package offers a complete pamper: bath, blow-dry, de-shed, clip, nail trim, ultrasonic teeth cleaning and more! The Fur Dental Integrated within each salon is The Fur Dental, a non-sedation teeth cleaning service for dogs and cats. Run by Anneke van den Broek and performed by qualified vet nurses, The Fur Dental uses gentle technology to remove plaque and tartar from your pet’s teeth without the use of anaesthetic. The Fur Dental’s mission is to keep your pet’s teeth and gums healthy, helping to prevent dental disease while giving them fresher breath and brighter smiles. Services include puppy introduction cleans, full dog cleans, and cat dental services - all carried out in the same calm salon environment. Why Choose The Fur Salon & The Fur Dental? Since opening, The Fur Salon and The Fur Dental have built a loyal following, with more than 6,700 happy customers across three Sydney locations. From soundproofed washrooms and electric grooming tables to salon-inspired Rufus & Coco products made from all-natural ingredients, free from nasties, every detail is designed for wellbeing. With no cages, tailored style cuts, 24/7 online bookings and the added convenience of in-salon dental care, it’s no wonder locals are calling this their go-to destination for personal care for their pets.Because here, it’s not just about a cut or clean - it’s about creating happier, healthier pets and lasting relationships with the people who love them. What Clients Say: “Herb used to be so anxious after some bad experiences at other salons, but she loves her visits here. Thank you for always making her look and feel amazing - we really appreciate the cuddles and care.” “Amazing service! The vet nurse was gentle and very kind; my usually nervous dog was not stressed, and she did an amazing cleaning that removed a lot of plaque. I would highly recommend them!” Special New Client Offer: 25% off first groom with code QUEENSPARK25 $50 off first teeth cleaning with code QUEENSPARK50 The Fur Salon Queens Park 📍193 Bronte Rd, Queens Park NSW 2022 📞 (02) 9389 4588 🌐 thefursalon.com.au 🌐 thefurdental.com.au

We chat with Mulga, aka Joel Moore, the prolific Sydney-based mural artist/illustrator behind a number of high-profile street paintings and brand collaborations. More on Newtown By ALEC SMART Some of his idiosyncratic, vibrantly coloured work appears on walls around the Inner-West, as well as key locations along Sydney’s seafront. Neighbourhood Media caught up with this colourful character. * What inspired you to choose your working name 'Mulga'? It was already my nickname from school and I got it when I was in year 5 and I recited Banjo Patterson’s poem Mulga Bill’s Bicycle in front of my class. I remember one of my snot-nosed classmates who sat next to me saying ‘Hey it’s Mulgaaaa’ and the name stuck; some variations have been Mulga Bill, Mulga Pig, Mulgs. When it came to using an artist name I googled my real name and there is an American actor dude with the same name as me (even the same middle name which is kinda freaky!). Some movies you might recognise him from are Dodgeball and Avatar. I think Mulga works well and it ties in nicely with how my art has an Australian larrikin feel and the fact that my nickname comes from a character in a poem, and now I write poems about my own artistic creations, is a nice, full-circle kind of thing. * You've grown a magnificent beard and bearded characters appear in several of your artworks. But does your beard get in the way of painting and how do you deal with paint flecks caught in the hair? Why thank you, I think beards are magical and someone who has a beard can often achieve greater things than if they were beardless. For every mural I paint I do end up with paint in my beard, some more than others. I don’t mind and it can actually be quite satisfying pulling the paint out strand by strand. * Whilst your murals in beach-side suburbs are dominated by marine themes and sea-life, murals in land-locked suburbs + towns often tend to follow jungle themes, many with African wildlife among the foliage. What influenced Mulga mural art, uour creative instincts when you painted murals in Sydney's Inner-West, such as the Enmore, Newtown and Marrickville pieces? A lot of the time it will come down to a discussion with the client. The orangutan mural idea came about because I was painting it on the back of the Taste Organic shop and they sponsored a save the orangutan’s type organisation so an orangutan themed mural was agreed upon. I actually started painting a few other orangutan themed murals before I was scheduled to paint that one and that became my orangutan phase. Some of my other phases have been the gorilla phase, the unicorn phase, the bearded dudes’ phase, the rat phase, the zombie phase. * You've undertaken a lot of private commissions in homes and gardens. It must be a nice feeling knowing people are enjoying summer barbecues or entertaining in the company of your brightly painted cockatoos, koalas and flamingos? It’s a great feeling knowing I can bring joy to someone in the place where they live. It’s win, win really, they get to enjoy some uplifting fun art in their home and I get to make a living doing something I love doing. * How did you get into mural painting; do you come from a street art background or did you move from canvasses to walls? I actually got into mural painting as a way to get my art in front of more eyeballs. I don't have a street art background or even a canvas one, more of a drawing on pieces of paper background. It was 2012 and I’d just launched as an artist after having an art show in a small local gallery and I was hustling pretty hard so I could get out of my finance job and make drawing and painting my full time hustle. I found out that anyone could apply with the council to paint on the promenade at Bondi and I thought that was an awesome way to get my art there. I was right and I’ve painted there maybe 7 times since and even got commissioned by the council to paint on the wall at the northern pool (it got some good airtime in Bondi Rescue) and at the skatepark. I actually have a mural up in the same spot where I painted that first mural (which was a gorilla holding an ice cream); the mural up there now is a bearded dude with unicorns popping out of his beard. * A recurring theme in your work is the thick-framed black 'Buddy Holly' spectacles (or Clark Kent?) - sometimes brightly coloured with silhouettes of palm tree on the lenses. What inspired this motif? They are actually meant to be sunglasses and not chunky spectacles but I guess your misinterpretation speaks somewhat to my failings as an artist. That being said when I first started drawing sunglasses on characters the frames weren’t as chunky and more like real life sunnies but over time I stopped looking at pics of actual sunnies when sketching and that chunky frame kind of became the way I draw sunnies. It’s funny because when I figure out how to draw a thing a certain way whenever I have cause to draw the same thing I draw it in exactly the same way. If you look at my palm trees they are all the same, with 6 leaves all in the same shape. But to answer your question, I love summer and surfing and the beach and palm trees are my favourite tree so by drawing sunglasses wearing palm tree reflecting characters it brings those summer good vibes to my art. * A majority of your public works are animal-themed, with birds and mammals peering out of colourful foliage, or feature the recurring bushy-bearded man. But Oyster Bay Public School's mural is centred upon two ANZAC soldiers, one Indigenous, one Caucasian. How did this commission come about? The head teacher for the year 6 got in touch and that design was what the student leaders had decided they wanted and the end design was my interpretation of their brief. Originally I painted the sky pink because they wanted a sunset vibe but an annoying old grandpa over the road who could see the mural from his armchair complained about the pink and the school asked me to change it to blue. * Your artworks lend themselves well to summer, particularly the marine-themed murals, with dolphins, whales and sea creatures frolicking through waves, usually wearing tropical-themed sunglasses. What works have you undertaken on Sydney's northern beaches, and where might we find them? I love ocean themed murals and summer so painting them is always a pleasure. I’ve got a mural at St Augustine's College in Brookvale and another around the corner in the Colourmaker Industries office (which is actually an underwater mural painted with their flouro paints). I recently painted a ‘Welcome to Dee Why’ mural on the fence at Beach Burrito’s Dee Why restaurant. That was sweet because I ran down to the beach and went surfing at lunch time, I was living the dream. I paint a whale themed mural at Beauty Point Public School, that turned out nice. I remember the kids all started clapping me at one point, classic. * Budgie smugglers or boardies? I’ve actually been collabing with the brand Budgy Smuggler for a few years after a fan asked if he could get some of my art on a pair of Budgy Smugglers. So budgie smuggler is my official answer. * You've undertaken several school playground commissions. How did these come about? Do you recruit kids as assistants during the painting process? I’ve been fortunate to have painted at maybe 30 to 40 schools around the state and interstate. These came about the same way all my work comes about: someone sends me an email, I get the details of the mural from them and send them a quote and then if they accept my price I go and paint it. A few years ago someone from the department of education filmed an interview/profile piece on me and I think that may have raised my awareness with a few teachers around the place. I know that a lot of schools and classes study my art or students will select me as their artist when they have an assignment and need to select an artist. I think the fact that my art is colourful and playful appeals to kids and the fact that I’m not dead, from another century and country and that they can pop into their local 7/11 and buy a Slurpee with my art on the cup may also add to the appeal. And I do enlist the students to help me paint the murals at schools and even when I’m painting non-school murals I have volunteers come and paint with me. If you’d like to do that drop me a DM on the ‘gram. * Tell us about some of your commercial collaborations - which have you most enjoyed? Do you submit illustrations or work with your clients' design teams to bring ideas into fruition? I really love doing cool brand collabs. One of my favs has been with Slurpee, because there are so many 7/11’s around the place and it has been a great way at getting my art out into the community. Because my art has that summer loving vibe to it I’ve collab’ed with a few of those summer companies such as Coca Cola and Havaianas, which have been cool. I love licensing my art with brands that make useful things that people can use and enjoy, it’s like it gives the art an extra usefulness that it wouldn't otherwise have if it was just sitting on a wall. Usually I will get a brief from the client and work with them so that they are happy with the final art. * Anything you wish to add? Most definitely, give me a follow on the socials on @mulgatheartist to see all the things I get up to or get in touch if you’d like to commission me to do some cool art for you whether it be a mural, a canvas, live art at an event, putting my art on your products etc, anything is possible! I also sell heaps of art and tees and sweet merch (including a lot of the collabs I do such as Havaianas) on my website. Peace my homies! Mulga (Joel Moore) E: mulgasroom@gmail.com W: mulgatheartist.com.au Insta: https://www.instagram.com/mulgatheartist/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/Mulgatheartist

The Just For Laughs: All Star Gala was a fast-paced night of international stars and standout local comedians at the Sydney Opera House More on Surry Hills Each year, Sydney’s Just For Laughs Festival brings comedians from every corner of the comedy world for a jam-packed, multi-day festival of laughs. A centrepiece of the festival is the star-studded All Star Gala - an event I attended for the first time this year, and one I’m certain will become a permanent fixture on my annual calendar. This year’s event was hosted at the iconic Sydney Opera House, hosted by Australian actor, comedian, TV presenter and writer, Shaun Micallef. He shone in this role, delivering quick-fire wit and intermission banter that had the audience laughing just as hard as they did during the headline sets (if not a little harder). Now talk about a line-up! International heavyweights like Reggie Watts, Preacher Lawson and Melanie Bracewell brought the house down. But what really delighted me was the huge showcase of homegrown talent. Wil Anderson, Joel Creasey and Celia Pacquola each delivered stand-out sets - so good, in fact, that I’d urge you to catch their solo shows while you can. The All Star Gala is the perfect pick for anyone wanting to experience some of the world’s best comedy in a fast-paced, varied format. Sets run a punchy 20–30 minutes, each with its own energy, style and sense of humour. You’ll be fully engaged, constantly surprised and counting down the moments to whatever brilliance comes next.

Inside the 1945 gangland murder at 428 Crown Street, Surry Hills that stunned the local community. More on Surry Hills By Elliot Lindsay On the 29th of January 1945, the Red Army was advancing into Germany from the East, Americans were advancing into the Rhineland from the west and Australian soldiers were in a fierce offensive against Imperial Japan in New Guinea. Meanwhile, back in Surry Hills in the early hours a shabby terrace at 428 Crown Street, Surry Hills, became the stage for one of the most dramatic underworld killings of wartime Sydney. The house - wedged between Foveaux Street and the bustle of Crown Street, just up from the old Frog Hollow - was already notorious. Inside its dim, liquor-soaked rooms, black-market grog flowed freely, American servicemen slipped in and out without leaving their names, and the fractured domestic life of a gangster was grinding toward its violent end. Donald Day was known throughout Sydney’s underworld as “Donald the Duck,” a former jockey turned brothel boss, liquor racketeer and king-hit artist. He was no stranger to violence. But even for Surry Hills, a neighbourhood used to standover men, sly-grog traders and razor-wielding enforcers, his death was shocking in its suddenness and brutality. A Brewing Storm: Jealousy, Beer and the Maxine Club Two nights before the shooting, tensions between Day and his longtime partner, Irene Merle Day, ignited in public. At the Maxine Club at 80 Oxford Street Woollahra, Day arrived with a new mistress: Joyce Cusack, a young blonde machinist from Darlington. Irene spotted them across the cabaret floor. She crossed the room like a storm front. What followed became the talk of Surry Hills: accusations, a glass of beer thrown, and a retaliatory punch with a glass that split Joyce’s eye open. The two women ended up at St Vincent’s Hospital - the first of many injuries in a weekend that would spiral into chaos. Joyce later told the court that Irene hissed at her:“If you want him, you can have him - dead.” Whether it was threat, heartbreak, or theatre, the remark hung over everything that followed. Later that night, Day returned to Crown Street to collect four bags of beer he claimed had been taken from him. As he lugged the bags out to his car, a brawl erupted on the footpath. American servicemen, local girls, Day, his rival Keith Kitchener Hull, and hangers-on were all swinging. Hull was knocked down - some said kicked while he lay on the pavement. He would later show the court a broken nose and bruised face. The bad blood was now set. The Night of the Shooting Shortly after 1:45 a.m. on January 29, Day and his associate Reeves pulled up outside 428 Crown Street again. The door was opened by Irene and another girl. Day marched inside. Reeves lingered in the hallway. Upstairs, in a small bedroom facing Crown Street, Hull was waiting. The Americans staying in the house - George Miller and Bill Simponis - had been drinking most of the night. At some point, Miller’s loaded revolver, hidden under his mattress, had gone missing. He later admitted he asked Hull about it. “Yes, I took it,” Hull said. “I needed it. They’re after me.” Reeves reported that Day walked upstairs and “half-closed the door.” Muffled voices followed, then three or four cracks - like muffled fireworks. Simponis said he looked out of his door and saw a man running up the stairs holding a gun. Miller shouted: “Donald Day has got a gun - look out!” When they reached the back bedroom, Day was lying on the floor, shot through the cheek, the chest, and the abdomen. Blood soaked the scattered clothing on the floor. Hull stood nearby, shaking, a gun in his hand. The Americans helped lift Day onto the bed, where he died almost instantly - one bullet had pierced his heart. Meanwhile, Irene Day knelt beside him, holding his hand, weeping:“Speak to me, my Donnie… he’s my Donnie… my Donnie…” Neighbours on Crown Street later recalled the sound of women screaming and the thud of feet on floorboards. Guns Under the Bath When police arrived, the scene was chaotic. Empty cartridges littered a neighbouring bedroom. The wardrobe had a bullet hole clean through its door. Under the bath in the adjoining house in Foveaux Street, detectives found the evidence that would haunt the courts for months: two heavy-calibre revolvers, one wrapped in a facecloth, the other a fully loaded American Navy pistol wrapped in a white handkerchief. Who moved the guns? Who wiped them clean? And why? The Coroner later declared the two Americans had “prevaricated, evaded, and committed perjury.” For a time, he even suspected they might have been accessories after the fact. A Funeral Fit for a Kingpin Despite the sordid circumstances of his death, Day’s funeral at Kinsela’s, Taylor Square, and later at South Head Cemetery, was a spectacle. More than 1,500 people crowded outside the parlours. His cedar coffin, silver-mounted, held the embalmed and surgically repaired body of a man who had lived - and died - hard. A wreath from Irene and their baby son was placed beside tributes from “The Chow,” “Bronze,” “La Belle,” and others from the Surry Hills criminal milieu. As detectives watched from a nearby hill, women sobbed at the graveside. The crime queen Tilly Devine was even seen watching from the air-raid shelter at Taylor Square. Surry Hills had lost a villain - and a folk hero. The Courtroom War In the weeks that followed, Crown Street’s gossip made its way into the Central Court. All four people present during the shooting - Hull, Irene Day, Daphne Kenny, and Nancy Burley - were charged with murder. The court was a theatre: Joyce Cusack, in velvet hat and fur coat, testified dramatically. Americans contradicted themselves mid-sentence. Detectives sparred with lawyers about hidden pistols, wiped fingerprints, and missing cartridges. The Coroner criticised witnesses for “hampering instead of helping” the court. But the turning point came when Hull’s injuries were examined. His broken nose, bruised face, and punctured elbow seemed to support his claim of a violent attack just hours before the shooting. Hull’s statement was simple: “He came at me pointing a gun. I fired in self-defence.” No gun was ever proven to have been in Day’s hand. But doubt lingered enough for a jury. The Verdict On 11 June 1945, after a trial lasting only a day, the jury took just 50 minutes. Not guilty. Justifiable homicide. Hull walked free - a rare victory for a man who had shot one of Sydney’s most feared racketeers at near-point-blank range. Crown Street’s Ghost Today, Crown and Foveaux look different - trendy cafés replacing sly-grog dens, apartments rising where old terraces leaned. 428 Crown Street is presumably no longer a den of vice as the murder house has been converted into a trendy pizza restaurant. The patrons all blissfully unaware of the gun smoke, the shouting, the chaos and violent demise of one of Sydney’s most feared gangsters in the room above them. In Surry Hills, history hides in plain sight. And some stories, like the last night of Donald the Duck, refuse to stay buried. If you wish to learn more about Donald “the Duck” Day and the 1940s gang wars in Surry Hills book the Surry Hills true crime walking tour on Sundays at www.murdersmostfoul.com.

Nel Restaurant’s indulgent new menu - The Story of Christmas  - is here to kick off the merriest season of them all. Acclaimed Chef Nelly Robinson’s ambitions know no bounds. From experimental chef’s table evenings alongside a rotating lineup of guest chefs to flying abroad to curate exclusive dinners at some of the world’s most prestigious venues, he’s constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity. And on top of all this, Nelly still manages to unveil a brand-new seasonal menu at his inner-Sydney restaurant, Nel. His last menu, Fine, Fast, Food , saw fast food favourites like biryani, margherita pizza and cheeseburgers reinvented into fine-dining masterpieces. I still find my train of thought wandering back to some of those dishes today - the succulence of the cheeseburger, the depth of flavour in the biryani broth… a truly memorable experience. As carols begin to play and Christmas lights appear, so does Nelly Robinson’s latest menu, The Story of Christmas . This year’s iteration brings influences from around the globe, blending traditional flavours with bold innovation for a genuinely memorable 12-course journey. It’s a hearty, generous menu, so I encourage you to come hungry. It’s divided into three parts: starters, mains, and then the sweet stuff. For me, the beginning of the menu held the true showstoppers. The Summer Pine  - a savoury sorbet of pineapple, green chilli and coriander wrapped in a dolmades leaf - is bright, cold, and unexpected. Then the smørrebrød arrives: clever variations of perfectly seasoned egg, topped with a melt-in-your-mouth gel and red caviar that brighten and balance the plate. From here, the menu gets more robust, offering dishes that showcase incredible craftsmanship without ever feeling overworked. It starts with a beautiful borscht - true liquid gold. Lift the lid and a wave of aroma rolls out, followed by a curl of smoke that sets the stage for a broth packed with depth and warmth. Next come the Mince Pies , filled with the best ragu I’ve tasted in a long time: rich, slow-cooked and incredibly satisfying. And then an undeniable showstopper, the Christmas Carrots . Presented as a single, perfect carrot, it’s actually a clever mix of textures and flavours, all revealed with a touch of theatre at the table. It’s smart, playful cooking that never forgets to be delicious. To wrap things up, the desserts deliver a perfectly festive finale. The cherry and custard tart takes centre stage, telling the story of Christmas in every bite. A Christmas-spiced custard sits in a delicate pastry shell, crowned with juicy cherries soaked in warming mulled syrup, then finished at the table with a gentle flurry of icing-sugar “snow.” To close the meal on a comforting note, a spiced ginger and cranberry cookie adds just the right balance of sweetness and warmth - a simple, satisfying end to a thoughtfully crafted menu. “This menu is about nostalgia, tradition, and fun,” says Chef Nelly. “We’re drawing inspiration from history, from childhood memories, and from cultures across the globe - all with our own cheeky NEL twist. We’re inclusive too – for the naughty and the nice!” This exquisite 12-course degustation menu is $195pp, and I highly recommend the matched wine journey for $165pp, or the $95pp non-alcoholic pairing. Available for a limited time only , now until Tuesday, December 23. *NEL will also open Monday, December 21 for dinner, and for lunch on selected Fridays and Saturdays in December.

The Best New Openings in Surry Hills and Darlinghurst: Your Guide to Sydney’s Freshest Bars and Restaurants More on Surry Hills Surry Hills and Darlinghurst continue to cement their reputations as two of Sydney’s most vibrant precincts for restaurant dining, drinks, and entertainment. These recent openings reflect a renewed energy, with post-work crowds, weekend diners, and late-night revellers well and truly back in full force. Surry Hills and Darlinghurst continue to cement their reputations as two of Sydney’s most vibrant precincts for dining, drinks and entertainment. From hidden laneway eateries to stylish cocktail bars to intimate late-night venues and bass-pumping nightclubs, these brand new inner-city venues offer an unrivalled mix of flavours, atmosphere, and experience. This recent wave of new openings highlights a renewed energy, marking Sydney’s post-work crowds, weekend diners and late-night revellers as back in full force. To celebrate, we’ve put together your go-to guide of the newest spots to hit Surry Hills and Darlinghurst. Whether you’re looking for after-work drinks, somewhere for a special occasion, or a night out that stretches into the wee hours, we’ve got you covered. El Primo Sanchez 📍 410 Crown St, Surry Hills 🔑 Opened: October After two and a half years of serving tacos, tequila, and late-night karaoke in Paddington, El Primo Sanchez has arrived in Surry Hills! The new location offers an elevated cocktail experience, refined Latin American street food menu and, of course - the signature karaoke room. You can even grab a free Tequila Passport and sip your way through Mexico, earning stamps along the way. Collect them all and earn your bragging right, plus win prizes like premium tequila shots and cocktails. Website: www.elprimosanchezsydney.com Le Frérot 📍 81 Macleay St, Potts Point 🔑 Opened: October Le Frérot, the spirited younger sibling to Franca Brasserie, is bringing Parisian charm to Potts Point. From morning croissants to late-night bistro classics, at Le Frérot you’ll find a relaxed yet refined dining experience. The menu features elevated dishes like Moreton Bay bug benedict and roast Wollemi duck breast, all complemented by an extensive wine list. Website: www.lefrerotbyfranca.com.au And some other noteworthy mentions in nearby neighbourhoods: The Mulwray 📍 11 Oxford Street, Paddington 🔑 Opened: September Named after Evelyn Mulwray, a character from the classic film Chinatown, The Mulwray has a classic feel, with a modern attitude. Led by sommelier Eleonore Wulf, The Mulwray boasts a 100-bin wine list that emphasises biodynamic wines and selections from lesser-known growers. Website: www.themulwray.com.au Monica Rooftop Bar 📍 1 Oxford Street, Paddington 🔑 Opened: September A destination for inspired design, sunset cocktails, and effortless luxury with a soundtrack to match, Monica captures the rhythms and rituals of modern Sydney through a distinctly cinematic lens. Guests can soak in sweeping views of Paddington and the city skyline while enjoying a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. Website: www.monica-rooftop.com Caness 📍 348 Oxford Street, Paddington 🔑 Opened: April Helmed by the team behind Surry Hills’ beloved Shaffa, Caness is a vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean tapas bar offering a menu of bold, ingredient-led share plates. Dishes like traditional prawns saganaki with homemade feta, smoky grilled octopus with caper salsa, and a standout kubaneh (Yemeni bread) take centre stage. Paired with a thoughtfully curated drinks list featuring over 80 wines and cocktails, this is the perfect restaurant-bar for any occasion. Website: www.caness.com.au