Where to Find the Best Sunday Roasts in Newtown & Enmore (2042) More on Newtown From Roast Duck to Christmas in July: A Local’s Guide to the best roasts in Newtown. 🏦 Bank Hotel 📍324 King St, Newtown 📆 Sunday from 12pm A long-time Newtown institution, Bank Hotel is known for its laid back charm, killer beer garden, and live music upstairs at Waywards — but come Sundays, it’s all about the roast. Expect tender roast beef ($30) with golden roast potatoes, honey & mustard parsnips, sweet carrots, rainbow chard, a perfectly crisp Yorkshire pudding, and a generous pour of rich, house-made gravy. Sydney Park Hotel 📍631 King St, Newtown 📆 Every Day in July | Sat + Sun in August Everyone loves a bit of Christmas in July — especially when it’s served every day of the week. All through July, Sydney Park Hotel is dishing up a special daily roast with not one, but two meats: turkey and ham, plus seasonal veg, mash, cranberry sauce, red wine gravy and a Christmas bonbon ($34). A roast pumpkin option is also available ($24). From August, the classic weekend roast returns with slow-roast beef, giant Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes, root veg and red wine gravy ($32). 🌈 Coopers Hotel 📍221 King St, Newtown 📆 Sunday from 12pm Love a good Yorkie with your roast? You’ll want to get down to Coopers. Choose between slow-roasted beef or pork ($25) served with seasonal veg — potatoes, pumpkin, carrots, broccoli and cauliflower — all piled into a giant Yorkshire pudding and drenched in rich, house-made gravy. Add live acoustic sets on the deck from 3pm–6pm, and you’ve got the ultimate Sunday session, no matter the weather. 🦆 Duk Inn 📍194 King St, Newtown 📆 Tues - Sun, 5-10pm Craving some roast meat Monday-Saturday? Duk Inn’s got you sorted. While most places keep the roasts for Sunday, this King Street staple serves up their famous Roast Duck (Half $50/$80) and Peking Duck (Half $65/$99) Tuesday - Sunday. Crispy skin, tender meat, and all the comforting roast goodness you’ve been chasing — any day you like. Some more worthy mentions for your Sunday Roast crawl: 🌲 Forest Lodge Hotel (117 Arundel St, Forest Lodge): Pork belly or classic beef ($25) 🍻The Erko (102 Erskineville Road, Erskineville): Roast beef ($30) with honey & mustard parsnips, roast potatoes, carrots, rainbow chard, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. For more suburbs, check out our complete list here

Your go-to guide to get behind the gates at some of Sydney's best School & University Open Days. More on Surry Hills Use our Sydney School Open Day Guide to find the best courses, enrol with confidence, and unlock the next level of your education journey. 🌏 International Grammar School 📍4-8 Kelly St, Ultimo 📆 Thurs 4 Aug & Thurs 14 Aug ⏰ 9am - 10am Be Among the First to Explore IGS’ New Kindergarten Space. In May 2025, IGS launched its new Kindergarten Centre – a vibrant, purpose-built space designed to nurture the creativity, curiosity and confidence of IGS’ young learners in their very first year of School. You and your child are invited to an exclusive Open Morning at IGS, hosted by Head of Kindergarten to Year 2 Julia Preece, and Deputy Head of Primary School, Gerard Elms. Step into the heart of Kindergarten life with a joyful morning of play, storytelling, language, music and creativity. Register now: igssyd.nsw.edu.au/open-mornings The University of Notre Dame 🎥 Australian Film, Television and Radio School 📍130 The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park 📆 Sat, Aug 9 ⏰ 9:30am - 4:30pm Interested in the world of film, television, radio and podcasting? The Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) welcomes future creatives to its state-of-the-art purpose-built campus. Discover everything you need to know about AFTRS and its courses, including the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production, Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting; Master of Arts Screen: Business; and the nine disciplines of the Master of Arts Screen. Register at: aftrs.edu.au/event/aftrs-open-day-2025 🎮 JMC Academy 📍561 Harris St, Ultimo 📆 Sat, Aug 16 ⏰ TBC Thinking about a career in music, film, animation, game design, acting, audio engineering, or entertainment? Mark your calendars now and head to the Sydney campus for their Open Day. Explore courses, meet industry-connected lecturers, check out student work, and get a feel for campus life. Whether you’re ready to enroll or just curious, it’s the perfect chance to see where your creative future could take you. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 International College of Management, Syd (ICMS) 📍151 Darley Road, Manly 📆 Sat, Aug 23 ⏰ 10am - 2pm ICMS is inviting future students to their 2025 Open Day — a chance to experience their personal, mentoring-focused approach to tertiary education. Held at the college’s iconic campus overlooking Manly Beach, the event offers an opportunity to explore a range of business and hospitality degrees, meet academic staff and students, and pick up practical advice for getting the most out of university life. Register your interest: icms.edu.au/about-us/open-day The University of Notre Dame 🏰 The University of Notre Dame 📍128/140 Broadway, Chippendale 📆 Sat, Aug 30 ⏰ 9am - 3pm Explore Notre Dame’s Sydney Campus on Broadway and get all your questions about uni life answered. Learn more about the early offer program, scholarships, degrees, work placements and the support on offer to students. Discover the global community and see why Notre Dame is more than just a university. Register your interest today: notredame.edu.au/engage/visit-us/openday 🏰 The University of Sydney (USYD) 📍 University Pl, Camperdown 📆 Sat, Aug 30 ⏰ 9am - 4pm The University of Sydney is inviting locals to explore campus life, study options, and student support services at their upcoming Open Day. Visitors can build a personalised schedule of talks, tours and workshops, meet academics and current students, and get a feel for the mix of modern facilities and historic landmarks that make this campus one of Sydney’s most iconic. Find more details and start planning your day here: openday.sydney.edu.au 🎓 University of Tasmania 📍 Corner Church & Glover St, Lilyfield 📆 Sat, Sept 6 ⏰ 10am - 2pm The University of Tasmania’s Sydney Campus is opening its doors to those interested in exploring what UTAS has to offer. Tour the Rozelle campus, connect with academic staff, and learn about the study options available in Sydney. Whether you’re finishing school, starting a new degree, or considering a career change, it’s the perfect chance to get a feel for campus life and have your questions answered. Attendees can also discover the wide range of study pathways across UTAS’s Sydney, Hobart, and Launceston campuses. Register your interest today: utas.edu.au/about/events/open-day The Athena School 🎮 The Athena School 📍28 Oxford St, Newtown 📆 Fri, Oct 24 ⏰ 10am - 12pm All are welcome to explore the Athena School grounds, meet the welcoming community and see the dedicated teachers in action. This Open Day is a chance to experience firsthand how the school inspires and supports every child to reach their full potential. The day will include entertainment, guided tours, information packs and a complimentary morning tea. A warm, inclusive environment and a strong sense of community are at the heart of what makes The Athena School a place where students thrive. 🎮 SAE Sydney 📍39 Regent St, Chippendale 📆 Sat, Aug 16 ⏰ 11am - 3pm SAE Sydney is inviting locals to explore their world of creative media at Open Day. Guests will have the chance to tour the Chippendale campus, take part in workshops, check out interactive activations, and get hands-on with SAE’s industry-grade studios and facilities. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the courses on offer and discover where a future in creative media could lead. Perfect for anyone keen to turn their creative spark into a career.

From Bottleneck to Breakthrough: How Newtown is Reforming Housing in the Inner West More on Newtown In a decisive move to tackle the growing housing supply crisis, Inner West Council has endorsed sweeping planning reforms aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes across Newtown and the broader Inner West.  Spearheaded by Ashfield Ward Councillor Jess D’Arienzo, these measures mark a significant shift in how the council approaches housing development, moving from bureaucratic red tape to proactive facilitation. Developing The Inner West Council's New Housing Reform Plans Newtown, like much of Sydney’s Inner West, is grappling with soaring demand for housing, outpaced by sluggish planning processes and outdated frameworks. Councillor D’Arienzo’s reforms are a direct response to mounting frustration from the housing sector, with developers, renters, and community members alike citing an exhausting “game of bureaucratic pinball” when navigating the development application process. “These are big reforms because we have a big problem,” said D’Arienzo. “The housing crisis is here now, and we’re taking action to accelerate the delivery of new homes. Our council is pulling all available levers to fix the supply crisis in our own backyard—especially in places like Newtown, where demand is acute.” The reform package is built on three major pillars: the creation of a City Architect role, the establishment of a Significant Residential Development Panel, and the introduction of a Post-Development Application (DA) Survey to improve customer service. At the heart of the reform agenda is the creation of a new City Architect role, tasked with guiding architectural and urban design initiatives across the Inner West. Set to be included in the 2025/26 Budget, the position will sit within the Planning Directorate and focus on ensuring developments are not only high-quality but also sustainable and reflective of Newtown’s unique character, where heritage charm meets vibrant modern life. Key responsibilities will include: advising on the design of public spaces; collaborating with architects and planners; and setting design guidelines that balance innovation with preservation. Crucially, the City Architect will engage directly with the community, ensuring local voices help shape Newtown’s built environment. Streamlining the Development Process To further streamline the development pipeline, Council has also approved the formation of a new Residential Development Panel. Composed of senior council officials, including the General Manager, Director of Planning, General Counsel, and the City Architect (once recruited), the panel will assess major residential developments under the revised Inner West Local Environment Plan (LEP). This panel will serve as a one-stop shop for the assessment of significant applications, with the aim of providing consistency, transparency, and speed in the decision-making process.  By focusing on large-scale, high-value projects, the panel is expected to drive the timely delivery of much-needed housing stock, particularly in high-demand areas like Newtown, close to transport hubs and employment centres. Understanding that planning reform must be responsive and accountable, the Council also voted to implement a Post-Development Application Survey. This initiative will collect feedback from applicants about their experience with the DA process, evaluating communication, decision-making transparency, and the overall quality and impact of approved developments. Community Feedback The survey will serve as an important feedback loop, identifying areas for improvement and helping to shape a more efficient, user-friendly planning system going forward. These reforms come at a pivotal moment, with new rezonings on the horizon that will increase housing density around major transport hubs, including Newtown Station and along key corridors. By implementing these measures now, the Inner West Council is positioning itself to respond swiftly and effectively to future development pressures. As Councillor D’Arienzo put it, “We’ve looked at best practice from other regions and crafted reforms that will not only address the housing crisis but also enhance the quality of our public spaces and urban design.” In a region often defined by its passion for community and character, Newtown’s new direction reflects a bold commitment to meeting the housing needs of a growing population, while preserving the creativity and diversity that make the Inner West unique.

Meet the Family Behind Nyumbar, the Community-Driven Aboriginal Education & Mural Group Transforming Newtown More on Newtown Nyumbar is a Minjungbal word meaning teach, show, and guide - and that’s exactly what family-owned Nyumbar Education is all about. Nyumbar Education - Heart Research Institute mural They also paint stunning murals, like the recently completed one on the Heart Research Institute building in Eliza Street. This vividly coloured artwork is the result of Nyumbar Education Heart Research Institute teaming up as part of the Inner West Council’s Perfect Match program.  “This was our first time applying for the Perfect Match initiative,” says Deslyn (Dez) Marsh in an interview with Neighbourhood Media . She explains the process of designing and producing the 24-meter-long mural.  Creating the Nyumbar Aboriginal Mural “We firstly met with the team from the Heart Research Institute (HRI), including the local Elders from the Djurali Centre. We discussed what they wanted the mural to represent. We have a little bit of local knowledge from also living on Gadigal Land. We actually created 2 draft designs for the space. We sent them over and they picked the design that is now on their building on Eliza Street Newtown.” Close-up of Nyumbar Education - Heart Research Institute mural The design has Aboriginal elements as well as images that reference blood cells, science, and heartbeats in bold colours on a pale yellow background. It also features real handprints placed on the wall by the HRI executive team and Djurali Team.  Marsh worked with up to five other painters, including her two children, to finish the entire project in just six days.  “I think this was the biggest mural we have completed, length-wise and being outdoors,” she says.  A Collaborative Process Apart from HRI, Nyumbar has created murals for many schools and it is always a collaborative process.  Deslyn (Dez) Marsh, painting the Nyumbar Education - Heart Research Institute mural “Ninety per cent of the murals we have completed have had students and teachers contribute to the artwork. The mural doesn’t belong to us; it belongs to the wider community. When students contribute to the artwork, they also learn the meaning or the story of the artwork.” Importance of Aboriginal Education Education is really at the core of what Nyumbar does. Marsh had worked in education for 15 years before the pandemic hit in 2020, and she and many others were let go by her organisation. Marsh and her son decided to establish their own business, Nyumbar Education. Comprising Marsh, Isaac Bamblett, and Tyrrell Corby, Nyumbar Education provides fun, instructive, interactive programs for schools and teachers, sharing Aboriginal culture and history.  “Aboriginal history has never been taught truthfully. Unfortunately, it has all been whitewashed,” says Marsh. Their programs give teachers the confidence to teach culture and history accurately.  Close-up of Nyumbar Education - Heart Research Institute mural The feedback Nyumbar gets from students and teachers is testament to their programs, which have elicited enthusiastic responses and some very special moments.  “Every time we visit, facilitating different programs — art, music, dance, tools and weapons — kids go out of their way at the end of each session and tell us “thank you”, “we learnt so much”, “ this was so fun”. Teachers in some of our Professional Development days have shed tears.  “There was one school we attended that was a high needs school. We were facilitating a dance program. It was the end of the session, and a little girl didn’t want to leave; she was sitting there tapping her knees. She was swaying side to side and said, “More, more!” We smiled and didn’t think too much of it. The teachers had stopped in their tracks, and we didn’t know what was happening. The teacher then told us that this student was nonverbal. To this day, that moment will never leave my mind.” Nyumbar Aboriginal Education 0414 168 066 nyumbareducation@gmail.comnyumbareducation.com

New Chapter, Same Signature Charm: Spon Welcomes New Owners More on Newtown There’s a special kind of magic about SPON Bottleshop & Wine Bar — a place where spontaneity meets good wine, and community is always on the pour. Tucked along Newtown’s King Street, SPON has been a beloved neighbourhood hangout since the doors first opened in 2023. It’s become known for its ever-changing drinks list, warm hospitality, and laid-back, unpretentious vibe. Now, it’s turning a new page while keeping its signature charm firmly intact. Earlier this year, SPON welcomed new owners Neet Aujla and Lakhy Singh, a husband-and-wife duo with a shared love of craft beer, natural wine, and community-driven spaces. Officially taking over in May 2025, the couple have stepped seamlessly into the role of custodians, bringing fresh energy while honouring the aspects that made SPON so special in the first place. “We really wanted to keep the spirit of SPON alive,” says Neet. “It’s always been a place where people can drop in, discover something new, and feel at home. Our job is to keep that going.” And so far, they have. From the moment you step inside, it’s clear that not much has changed — and intentionally so. The friendly staff are still pouring with a smile, an indie soundtrack hums in the background, and the shelves remain stocked with eclectic treasures you’d be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. SPON continues to be that unique hybrid of bottle shop and wine bar, where discovery is the main event. At the heart of the SPON experience is its signature 12-bottle board — a rotating selection of wine, beer, and cider available by the glass. It’s a constantly evolving offering that ensures every visit feels a little different. And true to SPON tradition, the board isn’t just curated by the team — it’s shaped by the people who walk through the door. If there’s an empty spot, guests are encouraged to browse the shelves or fridges, pick out a bottle they’re curious about, and the staff will happily crack it open. It’s a playful, community-first approach that blurs the line between customer and contributor, and one that’s helped SPON build a loyal following of regulars and curious newcomers alike. “There aren’t many places where you can help decide what’s being poured that night,” says Lakhy. “It keeps things fresh and fun, and it means you’ll probably end up trying something you’d never normally order.” Daily Happy Hour from 3pm to 6pm makes SPON an easy choice for a midweek wind-down or weekend kick-off, with a selection of wines and beers by the glass, all served with a side of friendly banter. A tight, thoughtful bar menu rounds out the offering, featuring small plates and snacks designed to complement whatever you’ve chosen to sip on. While Neet and Lakhy bring their own passion and ideas to the table, their vision for SPON is clear: keep it approachable, eclectic, and rooted in discovery. It’s a philosophy that mirrors the spirit of Newtown itself — creative, inclusive, and proudly independent. So whether you’re into funky pét-nats, hazy local IPAs, or simply great conversation over a glass of something unexpected, SPON is ready to welcome you in. The next chapter of this Newtown favourite is here, and it’s every bit as spontaneous and soulful as ever. Spon Wine Bar & Bottleshop 256 King St, NewtownSpon.bar

From Pauper’s Burials to Priscilla: The Forgotten Tales of Camperdown Cemetery By Melissa Mantle More on Newtown A memorial plaque near the entrance to Camperdown cemetery reads: In memory of the many humble, undistinguished, unknown, unremembered folk buried in this cemetery whose names are not written in the book of history, but are written in the book of life. Indeed, what better place to read the book of life than in one of Sydney’s oldest existing graveyards. While older cemeteries existed in Sydney, they were either relocated or built over, making Camperdown the only surviving one of the original three major cemeteries in the city.  (St John's Cemetery, Parramatta,  in use between 1789 and 1824, is Australia's oldest surviving cemetery.) Foundation of Camperdown Cemetery Founded in 1848 as an Anglican General Cemetery, Camperdown Cemetery was Sydney’s main burial ground until 1868, after the closure of the Old Sydney Burial Ground (now beneath Sydney Town Hall) and the Devonshire Street Cemetery (now the site of Central Station).  The land was originally owned by Governor William Bligh, who named it Camperdown in commemoration of the Battle of Camperdown he’d fought in during the French Revolutionary Wars. Bligh’s son-in-law was the first soul to be buried there, starting a trend that would soon also include many other early colonial luminaries. Famous Burials at Camperdown Cemetery Perhaps the most famous of all the burials is the Dunbar tomb, containing the remains of 22 people who died when the Dunbar, a clipper ship, went asunder in August 1857, killing all but one of 122 passengers and crew. Many of the dead were returning home to Sydney. Of course if you’re more of a literary type it will be of interest to know that the cemetery claims the possible inspiration of Miss Havisham (a character in Charles Dickens' Great Expectations) among its permanent residents in Eliza Emily Donnithorne, a jilted bride and recluse who died in 1886. Romantics might also enjoy knowing that they’ll find a small grove of Chinese Elms planted where William Broughton, the first Anglican Bishop in Australia, buried his wife, Sarah, and planted the Elms there in honour of her. Within the walls of the cemetery stands the Cemetery Lodge, St Stephen’s Church, and the church’s rectory. The Church, opened in 1874, is considered a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture. And speaking of gothic: the cemetery has attracted its fair share of ghost stories. The two top contenders being a spectral matron of Sydney General Hospital named Bathsheba Ghost who is allegedly “seen” attending to the sick in St Stephen’s Rectory, and a “ghostly grey lady” who drifts over the grave of her illicit lover who died aboard the Dunbar. Most of the 2000 tombstones seen in the cemetery today are made of sandstone as per the fashion of the time, and were constructed by prolific local mason John Roote Andrews and his family who lived on Prospect Street nearby. In its heyday, the cemetery accepted the dead of all denominations, though it buried them with the Church of England rites.  It slowed its acceptance of new inhabitants in 1868 due to complaints about the stench arising from “pauper’s burials”, a sort of stacked coffin arrangement which at the time made up around half of the burials.  In 1946, the murder of a young girl whose body was found in the overgrown cemetery prompted the establishment of the Camperdown Memorial Rest Park and the cemetery’s thirteen acres were walled off to just four. In the process, many tombstones were unfortunately damaged and the cemetery went on to suffer an era of neglect and rampant vandalism as the suburb’s demographics and priorities shifted. Resurrection of Camperdown Cemetery From the 1970s, though, the cemetery resuscitated from the dead, as it were, because locals grew interested in preserving their green space. In 1994, the grounds appeared in the cult movie Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. In the 1980s and ‘90s, many broken monuments were repaired with the help of a Bicentennial Heritage Grant – including the restoration of the tomb of Sir Thomas Mitchell, a Scottish-Australian soldier, surveyor and poet. A conservation strategy was initiated as well as a landscape management plan. The cemetery is notable for containing examples of native flora considered rare in the inner city’s urban environment. If you wander to the rear of the cemetery, you will find remnants of the original Turpentine-Ironbark forest that covered the area, including Kangaroo grass and flax lilies. The Moreton Bay Fig and other oaks in the cemetery are also some of the oldest in the area, dating back to 1848. The cemetery grounds are maintained by a group of volunteers and the Camperdown Cemetery Dog Walkers. The cemetery, along with St Stephen’s Church, is listed by the Heritage Council of NSW and the National Register as a site of national importance. Camperdown Cemetery 189 Church St, Newtown

Your go-to guide to get behind the gates at some of Sydney's best School & University Open Days. Use our Sydney School Open Day Guide to find the best courses, enrol with confidence, and unlock the next level of your education journey. 🌏 International Grammar School 📍4-8 Kelly St, Ultimo 📆 Thurs 4 Aug & Thurs 14 Aug ⏰ 9am - 10am Be Among the First to Explore IGS’ New Kindergarten Space. In May 2025, IGS launched its new Kindergarten Centre – a vibrant, purpose-built space designed to nurture the creativity, curiosity and confidence of IGS’ young learners in their very first year of School.  You and your child are invited to an exclusive Open Morning at IGS, hosted by Head of Kindergarten to Year 2 Julia Preece, and Deputy Head of Primary School, Gerard Elms. Step into the heart of Kindergarten life with a joyful morning of play, storytelling, language, music and creativity. Register now: igssyd.nsw.edu.au/open-mornings The University of Notre Dame 🎥 Australian Film, Television and Radio School 📍130 The Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park 📆 Sat, Aug 9 ⏰ 9:30am - 4:30pm Interested in the world of film, television, radio and podcasting? The Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) welcomes future creatives to its state-of-the-art purpose-built campus. Discover everything you need to know about AFTRS and its courses, including the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production , Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting ; Master of Arts Screen: Business ; and the nine disciplines of the Master of Arts Screen . Register at:  aftrs.edu.au/event/aftrs-open-day-2025 🎮 JMC Academy 📍561 Harris St, Ultimo 📆 Sat, Aug 16 ⏰ TBC Thinking about a career in music, film, animation, game design, acting, audio engineering, or entertainment? Mark your calendars now and head to the Sydney campus for their Open Day. Explore courses, meet industry-connected lecturers, check out student work, and get a feel for campus life. Whether you’re ready to enroll or just curious, it’s the perfect chance to see where your creative future could take you. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 International College of Management, Syd (ICMS) 📍151 Darley Road, Manly 📆 Sat, Aug 23 ⏰ 10am - 2pm ICMS is inviting future students to their 2025 Open Day — a chance to experience their personal, mentoring-focused approach to tertiary education. Held at the college’s iconic campus overlooking Manly Beach, the event offers an opportunity to explore a range of business and hospitality degrees, meet academic staff and students, and pick up practical advice for getting the most out of university life. Register your interest: icms.edu.au/about-us/open-day The University of Notre Dame 🏰 The University of Notre Dame 📍128/140 Broadway, Chippendale 📆 Sat, Aug 30 ⏰ 9am - 3pm Explore Notre Dame’s Sydney Campus on Broadway and get all your questions about uni life answered. Learn more about the early offer program, scholarships, degrees, work placements and the support on offer to students. Discover the global community and see why Notre Dame is more than just a university. Register your interest today: notredame.edu.au/engage/visit-us/openday 🏰 The University of Sydney (USYD) 📍 University Pl, Camperdown 📆 Sat, Aug 30 ⏰ 9am - 4pm The University of Sydney is inviting locals to explore campus life, study options, and student support services at their upcoming Open Day. Visitors can build a personalised schedule of talks, tours and workshops, meet academics and current students, and get a feel for the mix of modern facilities and historic landmarks that make this campus one of Sydney’s most iconic. Find more details and start planning your day here: openday.sydney.edu.au 🎓 University of Tasmania 📍 Corner Church & Glover St, Lilyfield 📆 Sat, Sept 6 ⏰ 10am - 2pm The University of Tasmania’s Sydney Campus is opening its doors to those interested in exploring what UTAS has to offer. Tour the Rozelle campus, connect with academic staff, and learn about the study options available in Sydney. Whether you’re finishing school, starting a new degree, or considering a career change, it’s the perfect chance to get a feel for campus life and have your questions answered. Attendees can also discover the wide range of study pathways across UTAS’s Sydney, Hobart, and Launceston campuses. Register your interest today: utas.edu.au/about/events/open-day The Athena School 🎮 The Athena School 📍28 Oxford St, Newtown 📆 Fri, Oct 24 ⏰ 10am - 12pm All are welcome to explore the Athena School grounds, meet the welcoming community and see the dedicated teachers in action. This Open Day is a chance to experience firsthand how the school inspires and supports every child to reach their full potential. The day will include entertainment, guided tours, information packs and a complimentary morning tea. A warm, inclusive environment and a strong sense of community are at the heart of what makes The Athena School a place where students thrive. 🎮 SAE Sydney 📍39 Regent St, Chippendale 📆 Sat, Aug 16 ⏰ 11am - 3pm SAE Sydney is inviting locals to explore their world of creative media at Open Day. Guests will have the chance to tour the Chippendale campus, take part in workshops, check out interactive activations, and get hands-on with SAE’s industry-grade studios and facilities. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the courses on offer and discover where a future in creative media could lead. Perfect for anyone keen to turn their creative spark into a career.

The Inner West Councils has released a new Urban Forest Policy draft, with an aim to revive and-regrow an aging tree canopy, boost biodiversity and future-proof the Inner West's Urban Forests. More on Marrickville Inner West Council has released a draft Urban Forest Policy aimed at creating a consistent and sustainable approach to managing trees across the local government area. The policy, now on public exhibition for 28 days, seeks to address the challenges of an aging and inconsistent tree population following the 2016 merger of Ashfield, Leichhardt, and Marrickville councils. Each former council had its own outdated strategies, leading to fragmented practices and suboptimal outcomes. Between 1972 and 2003, over 41,500 trees were planted across the region. Many are now mature, and a recent tree audit found 60% of the population is aging, with fewer young trees replacing them. The Council says a unified strategy is needed to ensure the tree canopy can thrive into the future. The draft policy outlines a Strategic Action Plan that will guide how trees are planted, maintained, and renewed on both public and private land. It sets out to increase canopy cover, boost biodiversity, reduce infrastructure conflicts, and support climate resilience. Large trees like eucalyptus and melaleuca were previously planted in narrow verges, creating issues with roots and overhead growth. The new strategy prioritises better species selection and site-appropriate planting. The policy also aims to engage residents through community planting days and education campaigns. Tree management will be better integrated into urban planning and development processes, and new canopy targets will be embedded in Council’s Community Strategic Plan. Read more about Inner West Council's plans to Revamp Sydenham Rd HERE . Find out how the Inner West Council are making streets safer HERE .

50 Million Kilos Saved: How Harris Farm’s Imperfect Picks is Changing the Way Australia Shops In a leafy suburb like Mosman, where quality is everything, locals know a good deal when they see one. That’s why Harris Farm’s Imperfect Picks range has become a quiet revolution in fresh produce — one that’s not only easier on the wallet, but kinder to the planet and a lifeline for Aussie farmers. Launched in 2014, Imperfect Picks was Harris Farm’s bold answer to an old problem: what happens to the apples that aren’t shiny enough, or zucchinis that grow a little wonky? The answer used to be simple — they were discarded. But with Imperfect Picks, those overlooked fruits and vegetables get a second chance. The savings are real, the produce is delicious, and you feel good knowing you're helping reduce waste. The tagline says it all: “Fill bellies, not landfill.” Behind every slightly blemished orange or crooked carrot is a staggering reality — 25% of Aussie farmers’ crops never leave the farm, simply because they don’t meet aesthetic standards. That’s a huge amount of perfectly edible, nourishing food going to waste — and a massive hit to farmers’ incomes. Imperfect Picks flips that on its head. Harris Farm offers this ‘wonky but wonderful’ produce for up to 50% less than standard fruit and veg, making it a lifeline for families trying to eat well during the current cost of living crisis. And the freshness? Often better than what you'd find in a standard supermarket. There’s something deeply satisfying about filling your basket with locally grown produce, knowing it tastes just as good (if not better) and that you’ve saved a few dollars in the process. A Major Milestone For Imperfect Picks This year, the initiative hit a major milestone — one that underscores its national impact. Over 50 million kilograms of perfectly edible fruit and veg have now been rescued from landfill thanks to Imperfect Picks. That’s a staggering achievement — one that not only reflects consumer demand for more sustainable shopping, but Harris Farm’s pioneering role in changing attitudes around what “good” food looks like. As Harris Farm Co-CEO Angus Harris put it, “This milestone isn’t just about the numbers, it’s about impact. It means less food going to landfill, a smaller carbon footprint, and more support for Australian farmers.” Indeed, Mosman’s Harris Farm store has played a key role in making Imperfect Picks a local staple. Whether it’s families trying to stretch the weekly grocery budget, or eco-conscious shoppers who want to minimise waste, the initiative ticks all the boxes — savings, sustainability, and sensational produce. Spreading to other retailers And it’s not just Harris Farm customers who’ve taken notice. Other retailers across the country have begun offering their own versions of “imperfect” produce, a trend that began with Harris Farm’s bold commitment over a decade ago. Today, it’s changing how Australians shop — and what they value in their food. Food waste accounts for roughly 6% of total global greenhouse gas emissions, according to Foodbank Australia, making this initiative more than just a feel-good campaign. It's a practical, impactful response to one of the biggest environmental challenges we face. Every imperfect pick chosen means fewer emissions, fewer resources wasted, and more food reaching tables instead of tips. At the Mosman store, Imperfect Picks has become more than just a value-driven range — it’s now a core part of how locals shop. The display bins are often the first to be picked over, with customers drawn to the incredible prices and the feel-good factor of reducing waste. It’s proof that when you offer quality produce at the right price, people don’t care if their apples are a little lopsided. So next time you’re strolling through Harris Farm, head straight for the Imperfect Picks. You’ll save money, eat better, and help tackle one of the biggest sources of food waste in the country. Turns out, beauty really is only skin deep — especially when it comes to your apples. Head down to your local Harris Farm Markets locations and check out the range today: Harris Farm Mosman Bridgepoint Shopping Centre

Calling Balmain’s best bargain hunters! Check out these epic specials available at some of your favourite local food, retail and wellness businesses. More on Balmain Bald Rock Hotel | 599 Darling St baldrockhotel.com.au Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 3-6pm (Beer & Wine from $6) Monday: $15 Schnitzels from 5pm Tuesday: Guinness Night! Pie & Pint for $30 from 5pm Wednesday: Badge Draw ($400) & Curry Night Thursday & Friday: 2 for 1 Margarita Cocktails! Friday: $20 Pizzas available from 12-5pm Saturday: Afternoon specials on from 12-4pm Balmain Bowling Club | 156 Darling St www.balmainbowls.com.au Happy Hour: Friday 4-6pm, $4 Schooners available to Members! Thursday: $19.90 Parmi Palooza Sunday: $19.90 Sunday Roast But wait, there's more! Stop in Thursday & Friday (12pm - 6pm) for Balmain Bowlo's Extra Long Happy Hour: Members can now enjoy standard glasses of wine for just $4, alongside your favourite beers. Join us every Thursday and Friday from 12 noon to 6pm for $4 Schooners of Hahn Superdry, Hahn Superdry 3.5, Tooheys Old, and Tooheys New, plus wines including Chain of Fire Sauvignon Blanc Semillon, Merlot, and Brut Cuvee. The Balmain Hotel | 74-76 Mullens St www.thebalmain.com/whats-on/ Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 4-6pm (House wine, beers spirits) Monday: Kids Eat Free from 5pm - 1 x Free Meal Alongside Adult Main. Cantina Bar | 350 Darling St, Balmain www.cantinabar.com.au Happy Hour: Monday - Friday, 4-6pm, $6 House Beer and Wines. Tuesday (11am - 9:30pm): $6 Tacos & $6 Tequila Shots! Wednesday (11am - 9:30pm): Grab a Torta Cubana Sandwich, and snag a Beer for $1 Thursday (11am - 10pm): 50% Off Sangria - Dive into Red, White or Rose Freshly Made Sangria Friday - Sunday (12 - 5pm): $12 Margaritas! Corner Bar | 632 Darling St Rozelle cornerbarrozelle.com.au Happy Hour: Monday - Friday, 3-5pm $6 Glasses of Sparkling, $7 goblets of house wines, $8 tap steins. Bookings recommended. You can also head in early in the week for Tex Mex Tuesdays! $20 Taco Boards with 5 delicious options, $7 Sangria and $5 Tecate beers! Cat & Fiddle Hotel | 456 Darling St www.catandfiddle.com.au/whats-on Happy Hour: Monday – Friday, 3-6pm ($6 Schooners) Monday: Kids meal free with parents purchase, from 5pmTuesday: All Pizza & Pasta only $20Wednesday: The Fat Cat Chicken Parmy $25 All DayThursday: One Pizza, One Pasta, One Side - Only $55!Friday: 2-Course Italian Lunch Special - $35 Chez Blue | 599 Darling St www.chezblue.com.au/whats-on Tuesday: Every Tuesday night at Chez Blue, bring a bottle of wine from your own collection to enjoy over dinner. $25 corkage per bottle. Friday - Sunday, 3 - 5pm: $2 oysters, served with lemon The Dry Dock | 22 Cameron St thedrydock.com.au Happy Hour: Weekdays 3:30 - 5:30pm (Public House only) $7 Schooners (16 Tap Beers available), $8 Premium House Spirits, $10 Premium Wine By The Glass, $12 Aperol Spritz, $15 Classic Cocktails. East Village Hotel | 82 Darling St eastvillagebalmain.com.au Happy Hour: Tuesday - Friday, 4 - 6pm ($6 Schooners, $8 Wines, $12 Spritz, $15 Cocktail) Tuesday: Rump & Red - 250g Rump Steak with a Glass of Red Wine $25 Wednesday: Bangers & Burleigh - Bangers & Mash with a Schooner $25 Thursday: Trivia 7:30pm (Cash prizes, lucky door prizes and vouchers) + Coopers & Curry $25 Red Lion | 726 Darling St, Rozelle www.redlionrozelle.com.au/whats-on Happy Hour: Monday – Wednesday, 4 - 6pm Tuesday: $22 Chicken Parmy Wednesday: $22 All Day Steak Thursday: $20 Chicken Schnitzel Thursday & Friday 6-8pm: $12 Cocktails

How Yoga Synergy in Newtown Is Keeping Wellness Affordable — And Giving Back to a Worthy Cause More on Newtown Founded by Bianca Machliss, a yoga teacher and qualified physiotherapist, Yoga Synergy offers something different to the big-name studios popping up around the place. The studio has long offered a no-fuss, no-frills alternative to the glossy boutique fitness scene. Classes take place in a simple school hall - a welcoming, down-to-earth space where the focus is on mindful movement, breath and connection. Like many small, independent businesses, Yoga Synergy has faced tough challenges in recent years. With increased competition from gyms and chain studios, and the lingering financial impacts of COVID, keeping doors open hasn’t been easy. While Bianca’s own classes remain popular, running a small studio means juggling rent, teacher wages and overheads — a constant balancing act. Despite this, Bianca has stayed true to the community values that built Yoga Synergy. Her newest initiative, a $5 Community Class, is a heartfelt way to give back while keeping yoga accessible for those doing it tough. Not only does it offer an affordable option for locals who may not be able to commit to regular class prices, but all proceeds are donated to Youth Off The Streets, an organisation supporting vulnerable young people. “It’s a privilege to have the time, capability and finances to practise yoga,” Bianca says. “This is one small way we can open the doors a little wider to those who need it, and support a cause that matters.” The hope is that these community classes will help bring more people back to the mat, reconnect neighbours, and keep one of Newtown’s longest-running independent yoga spaces alive. Head along with your mat, a warm blanket and some comfy clothes, and feel good while you do good. Yoga Synergy $5 Community Class | Thursday 6-7pm 196 Australia St Newtownyogasynergy.com

Pop legend and queer icon, Cyndi Lauper, is heading down under to say goodbye. It’s the end of an era for Cyndi Lauper fans as the pop icon announces her Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Australian Farewell Tour. After four decades of hits, groundbreaking advocacy, and unapologetic artistry, Lauper will grace Aussie arenas for one last time in April 2025.  With The Veronicas joining as special guests, it promises to be a celebration of music, legacy, and pure nostalgia. The six-city tour kicks off on April 2nd in Melbourne before heading to Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Adelaide, and Perth. Tickets are already selling fast.  Lauper’s farewell announcement comes on the heels of her standout performance at Rock in Rio, proving that even after decades in the spotlight, her energy and charm remain unmatched. The tour is part of a global journey that sees her taking final bows across the U.S, U.K, and now, Australia. For LGBTQ+ fans, Lauper is more than a pop legend. Songs like “True Colors” and “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” have become queer anthems, offering a soundtrack to love, defiance, and self-expression. Her unwavering advocacy, including founding True Colors United to combat LGBTQ youth homelessness, has cemented her as a hero beyond the stage. Home grown queer idols, The Veronicas, shared their excitement about performing with Lauper: “We’re honoured to celebrate Cyndi’s final tour with her! Expect iconic fashion, unapologetic anthems, and a celebration of true colours.” Lauper’s influence spans music, Broadway, and activism. With Grammy, Tony, and Emmy wins under her belt, a Songwriters Hall of Fame induction, and the recent documentary, Let The Canary Sing,  chronicling her life, Lauper leaves behind an unparalleled legacy of art, entertainment and hope. This tour marks a final chapter in Lauper’s career; it’s a chance for fans to experience her brilliance live one last time.  Grab your tickets and join a farewell tour destined to leave Australia singing and dancing in the aisles. For tickets and information, visit www.tegdainty.com.au