Reviving the Endangered White’s Seahorse in Chowder Bay More on Mosman In the tranquil, turquoise waters of Chowder Bay, a critical conservation effort is making waves. The Sydney Seahorse Project, initiated in late 2022, is renewing hope among the community for the endangered White’s seahorse, a species whose fate is tightly interwoven with the health of its marine habitat.  Under the stewardship of Mitchell Brennan, a PhD candidate at the University of Technology Sydne y and Project Manager at the Sydney Institute of Marine Science (SIMS) , this ambitious project seeks to reverse the decline of White’s seahorse populations through innovative conservation strategies. A Fragile Icon of Marine Diversity The White’s seahorse (Hippocampus whitei) is a unique marvel of marine biology. These seahorses, endemic to the eastern coast of Australia, are not just another fish in the sea. Their distinctive, horse-like appearance and the intriguing fact that it’s the males who carry and give birth to their young set them apart.  Unfortunately, their populations have dwindled dramatically due to habitat loss and degradation. Recognised as the second seahorse species globally to be listed as endangered, the White’s seahorse is more than just a charming creature; it is a flagship species symbolising broader marine conservation challenges. Chowder Bay: A Sanctuary for Revival Chowder Bay, a protected estuarine area within the northern precinct of Sydney Harbour, has been chosen as the project’s focal point. This location is crucial for several reasons. Historically, Chowder Bay would have been adorned with lush seagrass meadows, which provided essential habitat for White’s seahorses.  However, these natural habitats have been severely impacted by human activities. In response, the seahorses have adapted to using artificial structures like swimming nets for shelter. Chowder Bay, home to the SIMS aquarium, offers an optimal environment for the project’s efforts, including breeding and habitat restoration. At Chowder Bay, the team has installed 14 “seahorse hotels”, which are essentially artificial habitats designed to compensate for the loss of natural environments. These hotels are equipped with holdfasts for seahorses to anchor themselves, protection from predators, and a habitat conducive to the growth of micro-crustaceans, which are crucial for their diet. A Labor of Love: Preparing for Release The journey of each White’s seahorse is one of meticulous care and preparation. Rearing begins at the SIMS facility, where seahorses spend 4-6 months in a highly controlled environment.  The team ensures optimal water quality and temperature, and the seahorses are fed multiple times a day. This phase is crucial for acclimating the seahorses to their future life in the wild. Before their release, the seahorses undergo a gradual acclimatization process to match the conditions of Chowder Bay. They are then transported in special bags to the release site, where SCUBA divers carefully place them onto the seahorse hotels, swimming nets, or remaining seagrass patches.  This transition is a delicate process aimed at minimizing stress and maximizing the chances of survival and successful adaptation. The Enigmatic Life of Seahorses The lifecycle of a White’s seahorse is as fascinating as its conservation story. With an average lifespan of about five years - though some can live over seven - these seahorses exhibit rapid growth.  They reach sexual maturity within a year and are known for their monogamous breeding pairs. Their unique reproductive method, where the male seahorse carries and births the young, adds another layer of intrigue to their life cycle. Looking Ahead: Future of Sydney Seahorse Project The Sydney Seahorse Project is not resting on its laurels. Upcoming initiatives include the next breeding season, aligning with the natural breeding cycle of White’s seahorses, which runs from October to March.  Additionally, the project is expanding its scope with a co-restoration effort alongside Operation Posidonia and Project Restore. This involves replanting seagrass fragments near seahorse hotels in Cobblers Bay and Balmoral, with plans to release seahorses in these newly restored areas by 2025. Community engagement is a cornerstone of the project. On September 27th, the Sydney Seahorse Project, in collaboration with the Friends of Chowder Bay, will host a beach clean-up event open to the public. This event aims to foster a sense of stewardship and raise awareness about marine conservation. How Can The Community Make a Difference? The local community in Mosman can play a pivotal role in supporting the Sydney Seahorse Project. Residents are encouraged to participate in citizen science by submitting seahorse photos to iNaturalist.org , help keep the oceans clean by disposing of rubbish and fishing gear properly, and avoid damaging critical habitats like seagrass beds while boating.  Donations to the project are also vital for sustaining ongoing research and conservation efforts. As Mitchell Brennan and his team continue their work, the Sydney Seahorse Project stands as a testament to the power of dedicated conservation efforts. Through their innovative approaches and community involvement, they are not only working to save a species but also to restore the marine environment that sustains them.  For those passionate about marine life and eager to support, following the project on social media @sydney_seahorse_project is a great way to stay informed & get involved.

Shopaholics listen up! We have put together the ultimate guide to the markets on the Lower North Shore. From foodie finds to quirky treasures - these are your go-to market destinations! More on Mosman Calling all market mavens! If you're anything like us, you get a thrill from wandering through stalls, finding hidden gems, and sampling all the delicious goodies on offer. Lucky for you, Sydney's Lower North Shore is a treasure trove for market lovers with something to satisfy every craving, whether it's for food, fashion, or funky finds. Grab your reusable bags and let's dive into the best markets in your neck of the woods! Mosman Markets Mosman Square & Village Green   Where Fashion meets Foodie heaven. For a market experience that's equal parts stylish and scrumptious, head to the Mosman Markets. Held on the Mosman Square & Village Green, this market is a paradise for food lovers and fashionistas alike, with over 130 art and craft stalls and gourmet food options. With its picturesque setting and vibrant atmosphere, it's the perfect spot to shop, eat, and soak up the sun. 2024 Mosman Market dates: Saturday 5 October 2024 8am-3pm Thursday 24 October 2024 (OctoberFeast Night Market) 4.30pm-9pm Saturday 2 November 2024 8am-3pm Saturday 7 December 2024 8am-3pm Thursday 12 December 2024 (Christmas Night Market) 4.30pm-9pm Kirribilli Markets 70-72 Alfred St South, Milsons Point Nestled in the shadow of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, Kirribilli Markets are a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Held on the second Sunday of every month, this market boasts stunning views of the Sydney Harbour while offering up a tantalising array of artisanal crafts, vintage wares, and gourmet treats. From handmade jewellery to quirky homewares, you'll find something to tickle your fancy at every turn. And with live music adding to the festive atmosphere, it's the perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday by the water. Rotary Crows Nest Market Ernest Place, Crows Nest If you're looking for a market that's as diverse as it is delightful, look no further than the Crows Nest Markets. Held every third Saturday of the month, 9am - 4pm, in the heart of this bustling suburb in the Crows Nest Community Centre at 2 Ernest Place. This market has a little something for everyone. Browse through stalls brimming with fresh produce, or treat yourself to a unique piece of clothing or jewellery from one of the many local designers. There’s a heap of arts, crafts, giftware, toys and more. With its laid-back vibe and friendly atmosphere, it's the perfect place to while away a weekend morning. Northside Produce Markets 200 Miller St, North Sydney (Ted Mack Civic Park) Calling all foodies! If you're passionate about fresh, local produce, you won't want to miss the Northside Produce Markets. Open rain or shine on the first and third Saturday of the month, 8am till midday in the lush surrounds of Ted Mack Civic Park. This market is a haven with more than 70 + Stallholders coming from regional NSW, Sydney surrounds and the inner city. Stock up on farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet condiments, or treat yourself to a mouthwatering meal from one of the many food stalls on offer. Dogs on leash are welcome with water bowls available at the information stall. Free parking is available in the Ridge St, North Sydney carpark.  So there you have it, folks - the best markets that Sydney's Lower North Shore has to offer! Whether you're on the hunt for a unique gift, a delicious meal, or just a fun day out, these markets have got you covered. So grab your shopping bags and get ready to explore - you never know what treasures you might find! A little further afield at Carriageworks, Eveleigh: The Finders Keepers Market 245 Wilson St, Eveleigh (Carriageworks) Visit Australia’s most loved design market as The Finders Keepers returns to Carriageworks in 2024! The Finders Keepers Sydney Design Market is back for its second instalment in 2024. Happening Friday 15th of Nov (4-9pm) and Saturday 16th, Sunday 17th (10am - 5pm). Check out more than 150+ of Australia's best designers, makers and foodies across a three-day festival-style event. This is the place to connect and celebrate creativity. The Finders Keepers is more than Australia’s favourite design market - they’re growing the mindfully made, thoughtfully bought revolution, with you. From ceramics to slow fashion, fine jewellery to art, The Finders Keepers is where you’ll discover the latest from Australia’s craftiest cats.  Head to www.thefinderskeepers.com/sydney-markets/  for more details

When it comes to lingerie, finding the perfect fit is an experience that transcends shopping - it's about discovering confidence, a touch of luxury and most importantly, comfort. More on Mosman At Simone Pérèle Mosman, you couldn’t be in safer hands. At this gorgeous boutique, every detail is curated by expert staff, providing an unparalleled shopping experience. Vanessa, the Store Manager, shares insights into what makes this boutique a destination not just for lingerie, but for an exceptional shopping experience. "Our Mosman boutique opened its doors in April 2023, and since then, we've dedicated ourselves to offering something truly special.” A Boutique Like No Other So, what sets Simone Pérèle Mosman apart from other locations? According to Vanessa, it's all about personalisation. "Our boutique specialises in custom and private fitting services. Whether you're a bride looking for the perfect bridal lingerie, celebrating a special birthday, or planning a ladies' day out, we offer a unique, tailored experience. Just make an appointment, and we’ll organise everything in advance." The boutique's commitment to individual care is evident the moment you walk through the door. "Expect a professional, friendly, and warm service - accompanied by expert advice," Vanessa says. "Our customers are always our priority. We listen, we care, and we provide honest, genuine guidance.” The Importance of the Perfect Fit A well-fitted bra is more than just a garment - it's a game-changer. Vanessa highlights the importance of finding that perfect fit: "A well-fitted bra not only gives every woman confidence about her body, it also enhances her natural shape and overall look. Unfortunately, 80% of women are wearing the wrong size bra This is why it's crucial to be fitted by experts who can ensure you experience the ultimate in comfort and style." As women’s bodies change due to hormones, breastfeeding, weight fluctuations, and other life stages, the need for professional bra fittings becomes even more critical. "Each time you purchase a bra, it's important to have a fitting. Our bodies change, and our bras should too."  At Simone Pérèle Mosman, bra fitting is an art form. "We provide professional bra fitting services to every customer," Vanessa explains. "Our team is extensively trained in Simone Pérèle's product knowledge and values, ensuring that every customer enjoys an exceptional fitting experience. We believe in empowering women by helping them find the perfect fit, every time." Exciting New Releases and a Touch of French Chic Looking ahead, Simone Pérèle Mosman is thrilled to introduce new styles for the Spring/Summer 2024 collection. "We have a beautiful range of new styles and colours in our existing collections, just in time for summer and event dressing," Vanessa shares. "Our new ranges reflect our French heritage, offering effortless chic, modern innovation, and on-trend designs. We have new arrivals every week in September, so there's always something fresh and exciting to discover." A Personal Favourite When asked about her favourite product, Vanessa doesn’t hesitate. "The Andora 3D plunge bra and Essentiel padded bra are my top picks. They're incredibly versatile, with multi-position straps and a smooth, plain style that goes well under most garments in your wardrobe.A piece from the Andora collection is sold every 60 seconds globally," Vanessa notes, "which speaks to its popularity and the level of trust women place in it. It’s a cult favourite for a reason." Visit Simone Pérèle Mosman Today With personalised fittings, exclusive collections, and a commitment to excellence, every visit to Simone Pérèle Mosman promises to be a luxurious and empowering experience. Whether you're updating your lingerie drawer or searching for something special for an upcoming event, Vanessa and her team are ready to welcome you with open arms and expert advice. So why wait? Step into Simone Pérèle Mosman and discover the elegance, comfort, and confidence that comes with finding your perfect fit. Discover the elegance, comfort, and confidence that come with finding your perfect fit at Simone Pérèle Mosman. 684 Military Rd, Mosman 0419 952 418 simone-perele.com.au

By Elliot Lindsay More on Surry Hills The note pinned to the door of Henry Trevascus’ office at No.1 Glebe Point Road was written in shaky letters on a plain white business envelope. It read “Back on Friday Gone to Goulburn leave all letters at shop.” The note has been stuck to the door since Tuesday 31st of October, 1911, and when the various visitors saw it they all left without putting too much thought into it. However, Henry’s daughter became suspicious on Saturday afternoon when she found the note was still up. She knew her father was not a man who spent many days away from his business. So, she and a boarder who lived in a room above Henry’s office acquired a spare key and opened the door. On entering the room, Alice Trevascus found her father lying face down in a pool of blood on the floor with his legs under his desk and head near the chair. The back of Henry’s head had been smashed open, and someone had cut his throat. The blood was everywhere. Henry Trevascus had been brutally murdered. Detectives searched the room for clues and found a faint bloody fingerprint on the note pinned to the door. Furthermore, on Henry’s desk was the coulter of a plough, a large sharpened piece of steel about 2ft long and 4in wide. Typically, this item is used to turn soil though, in this circumstance, it was used as a weapon to strike the skull of Henry Trevascus, who was sleeping in his desk chair at the time. A Bengal razor was found on the desk, smeared with blood. The motive appeared to be burglary; detectives came to this conclusion after Alice told them she had been with her father the night before the note appeared. He showed her £50 of banknotes that he had withdrawn from the bank to purchase some gold and platinum from a dentist based in Emu Plains who was meeting him at the office the following day. Henry Trevascus was a metallurgist who traded in gold and precious metals. The £50 was missing. Detectives then came across a letter on Henry’s desk that was from the Emu Plains dentist. He went by the name L. R. Fisher. He wrote that he had 8 ounces of gold to sell and would arrive at 8pm on Monday. The press reported extensively on the murder of Henry Trevascus. Sensational stories were published with various theories as to whodunit. Police asked L. R. Fisher to come for questioning. However, it soon became apparent that the dentist did not exist and was just a red herring. By now, police sought a new suspect: a young man who, on occasion, would visit Henry. He came on Tuesday morning and asked the ground floor shop keeper if he could walk through the shop to access the stairs to Henry’s office. She agreed to let him through. Soon after, she heard a loud thud as though something heavy landed on the floor of Henry’s office above her. The young man rushed downstairs in an excited state, his body shaking. He said he fell down the stairs and hurt himself. He asked for a piece of brown paper which she gave him, and he took it back upstairs. He left soon after, not to be seen again that day. The young man was soon identified as a nineteen-year-old dental assistant, Campbell Nairn Moir. He was arrested in Melbourne and extradited to New South Wales, where he was met with a crowd of hundreds of people at Central Station who came to see the suspect. According to police, Moir was interviewed after the arrest and confessed to having known Henry Trevascus since 1910, even admitting to writing the letter from the fictitious Emu Plains dentist. His fingerprints were taken by detectives to be compared with those found on the note pinned to Henry’s door. Incredibly, it was revealed that Moir was the nephew of a New South Wales government minister, A. C. Carmichael. The public and press were concerned that Carmichael may intervene on his nephew's behalf and interfere with the course of justice. However, on the 24th of November, Carmichael tendered his resignation as a member of the Labor Government. Campbell Moir was confirmed to be the young man who entered Henry’s office on the morning of the murder. At the coronial inquest, the downstairs shopkeeper pointed him out in court. Next, the fingerprint lab declared the bloody finger mark from the crime scene matched with Moir’s. By now it was clear that Moir was in serious trouble. On the second day of the inquest, he confessed to making plans to steal from Henry Trevascus but denied being responsible for the murder. Instead, he accused a Russian man of being his accomplice. He claimed that he sent the letter to Henry to trick him into withdrawing £50 which he could steal. After he was let into the terrace on the Tuesday morning, his Russian accomplice followed him in and was introduced to Henry as a friend of Moir. However, when Henry turned around, the Russian struck him on the head, killing him instantly. Moir says he left and waited across the road in the University Hotel for the Russian to appear with the £50. They took £25 each. It was at this moment that the Russian told Moir he also cut Henry’s throat. The story of the Russian was not taken seriously, especially as a search for the man revealed no one and a Russian translator claimed the name given was not even of Russian origin. Moir stood trial in January 1912, with his defence arguing he was not mentally sound. However, state medical practitioners reviewed him and said they found nothing wrong with him. Ultimately, the jury found him guilty of murder and the judge passed down a sentence of death by hanging. However, luckily for Moir his sentence was commuted to life in prison beginning in Darlinghurst gaol until it was closed in 1914 and he was relocated to Long Bay. The terrace of 1 Glebe Point Road was demolished decades ago and rebuilt as a multi-story complex that houses restaurants and an Anytime Fitness Gym. Another amazing chapter in Glebe history.

More on Lane Cove By ALEC SMART Tambourine Bay is located between the suburbs of Riverview and Longueville in the municipality of Lane Cove. The cove is reportedly named after ‘Tambourine Sal’, aka Sarah Leadbeater, a former British convict sentenced in 1799 to seven years transportation for the theft of clothing. Sally/Sarah was known for her tambourine playing in Sydney Town, but at one stage reportedly hid from authorities in a hut on the western foreshore of Tambourine Bay. In 1812 she became Sarah Lawson after marrying Blue Mountains explorer William Lawson. Not far from Sal’s legendary hideaway, 1st Tambourine Bay Sea Scouts, Venturers, Cubs and Joeys meet regularly in a timber hall on a jetty on the northern foreshore of Tambourine Bay. 2066 magazine caught up with group leader Belinda Butcher to learn more. When was the 1st Tambourine group founded? 1st Tambourine Bay was first ‘born’ in June 1954 when a meeting took place with the District Commissioner Mr Mitchell, and the Cub Leaders from 1st and 2nd Longueville. The group was initially called 3rd Longueville. The first meeting was held on 21st July 1954 with Cub Leader Akela Miss Pam Whyte and eight cubs. The current hall was opened on 12th October 1963... What age group does it cater to? The group caters for children aged 6 to 18 years of age, plus a team of adult leaders and parent helpers. We currently have approximately 100 youth members and 25 leaders. What times do they meet? Joeys meet on Wednesday evenings Cubs meet on Monday evenings Scouts meet on Thursday evenings Venturers meet on Friday evenings We also have regular weekend activities What sort of water-based activities do the scouts undertake? Kayaking, Canoeing and Sailing. But we don’t just do water activities we also run a traditional scouting program, including bushcraft, bushwalking and camping skills. Our youth members are also involved in a number of other Outdoor Adventure Skills including abseiling, rock climbing, skiing etc. As a Scout, you can even learn to fly at our Air Activities base in Camden (you can even hold your full pilot’s licence before you are eligible to hold a driver’s licence!) Do they learn difficult tasks such as sailing in choppy seas or doing an Eskimo roll in a kayak? From Cubs (aged 8-12) we teach our youth members how to capsize and right their kayak. All our Outdoor Adventure Skills are graded, so as a youth member progresses through Scouting they increase their skills in a stepwise manner. The introduction of a new Youth Program has been instrumental in this grading of skills. Can they get a dinghy sailing certificate among their achievement badges? Youth members are able to achieve badges in all of our Outdoor Adventure Skills. Youth members aged 14 years and over are also able to complete nationally recognised qualifications in Outdoor Recreation via the Scouts Australia Institute of Training. Do they compete against other sea scout groups? Yes, we compete against other Sea Scout and Land Based Scout Groups at the Annual Sirius Cup which is held in March at Balmoral. Unfortunately, the 2020 and 2021 events were cancelled due to COVID-19. Any unusual things occurred involving the group? Our group was involved in infamous “pre-planned” raids against our fellow scout groups at 2nd Longueville. Our original boat was an old Whaler! Anything you wish to add? We have a strong community of Scouting in the area. Other amazing local groups include 1st Lane Cove, who meet at Blackman Park, 1st Hunters Hill, who have both a boat shed and a hall in Woolwich and Hunters Hill, respectively, and 1st Boronia. Tambourine Bay Sea Scouts Tambourine Bay Park Kallaroo Rd, Riverview, Sydney 2066 W: https://tamboseascouts.wordpress.com/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/1st-Tambourine-Bay-Sea-Scout-Group-101806071682416/ Inquiries: https://joinscouts.com.au/scouts/1st-tambourine-bay-scout-group/ ====================================== Photos: Alec Smart

Check out this amazing range of products from retailers and artisans right on your doorstep. More on Balmain Shop Balmain: Women's Fashion Bounce Sydney 305 Darling St, Balmain bouncesydney.com Suzy King - Local Artist suzyking.com.au Husk Clothing 252 Darling St, Balmain husk.com.au Lin & Barrett Rozelle  648 Darling St, Rozelle thefoundation.com.au

Read more on Newtown Grandpa  - This little fella was found living on a golf course and was finally caught when he had an accidental fall into one of the on-course lakes. He wound up at the vets in front of his soon-to-be-Mum, who immediately fell in love. Conveniently for Grandpa, she is also a vet tech! Legally, because he was microchipped, Grandpa did make a trip to the pound, but as soon as his microchip hold was up - his new life began! Grandpa is about 9-10, can be a little bit nervous of men - but is a sweet and wonderful little man and he now enjoys his days being pampered and kept safe! GhostFace Killa (Ghost) & Scottie Puppin -  These guys not only have the best names we’ve possibly ever heard, they are big personalities in Newtown. Ghost is known for his BIG love, he will give that tummy up for scratch any place anywhere. He’s 4 now, and a big people person - will do tricks for some kebab meat. His brother, Scottie Puppin, isn’t so keen. He joined the pack with a bit of baggage, and prefers to cruise the quieter streets of Newtown. He loves to annoy his brother Ghost, chimkin and chasing a ball. Cookie - AKA Cookie the Wookie, is a Pomeranian poodle (Pomapoo) whose favourite thing in the world is to explore. He follows his nose everywhere and has even been trained to scent out specific smells. He has also done agility and is an accomplished trick performer. Cookie does struggle with anxiety and being scared of things; but take him somewhere new and he forgets all that and just enjoys himself.   Cosmo - This 3 year old Inner-Westie is a Kelpie X - super affectionate, incredibly smart and all is life, literally. Being a working dog - he will chase and fetch his ball 24/7 if it was up to him! Cosmo is always at his owners side, doling out the best kisses and cuddles whenever they're needed. Good boy! Colin - This 5 year old Greyhound considers himself a gentleman. He displays impeccable manners at all times, especially when soliciting chips from new friends at the pub. Colin’s average day includes around 22 hours of hardcore couch potatoing and one minute of speed noodling. The rest of the time he can be found politely demanding pats at Hollis Park. Banjo -  This King Charles Cavalier is one of the most handsome, and friendliest boys around! He loves all the kisses in all the world, but not as much as he loves treats. His favourite activity is cuddling with his mummy. He may have been the runt of the litter but he has made up for that with his huge personality. Banjo turns 2 on April 2nd and likes that he was a King Charles before King Charles became King Charles! His favourite park is Sydney Park, his doggy day care is Kip Marrickville which he loves and his favourite buddy is a Staffy/Labrador rescue pup named Young Henry. READ MORE ON NEWTOWN

Check out these cool websites that will keep the kids busy, when you’re busy. Desperate to find a new distraction for my kids so I could attend an online meeting, I decided to undertake some research for fun and educational websites that offered not only videos, but also games and activities. Here’s what I found and let me assure you, while I was road testing each site, there were two little people desperate to take over my computer - so it looks like they are winners! www.kiloo.com/en/kids-games/ Here you will find a huge selection of Free Kids games that are also educational, from Penguin Skip to Parking Fury. There’s something here for everyone. https://www.education.com/ You will need to sign in for this one, but they have conveniently laid out a range of educational games for all kids from preschoolers to year 8. Games cover topics such as coding, maths, reading & writing and typing. This site also has free downloadable templates with lots of fun tasks, and you can upgrade for guided lessons. https://www.boomerangtv.com.au This fun website has all your favourite cartoon characters, like Scooby-Doo, Tom & Jerry, Mr Bean, The Happos Family, Taffy and Looney Tunes, with plenty of free game and activity options. The pets’ section is interactive using their app, and you can share pictures of your pet and see others. We really like the Create section, which has a ton of great craft projects that you can easily do at home. https://www.cbc.ca/kids/games Whilst it has a stack of games for all ages, this site also has a Tokyo 2020 special games' section where you can get your fix on everything from tennis to surfing. If you have a little future Olympian in the house, this one might be for you. https://www.cartoonnetwork.com.au If they are hooked on cartoons, then the Cartoon Network site is a winner. Everything from Teen Titans to Mythbusters, they will soon be skating with Gumball through a maze of other fun characters. Perfect for all ages, including teens, and best of all it’s free.

Join the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre Car Boot Sleep Out  on the 21st May by spending the night in your car to help people put homelessness in their rear view mirror. Read more on Newtown Did you know that right now more than 122,000 Australians are experiencing some form of homelessness? We are seeing more people present at our drop-in service every day in search of immediate support as the last resort before sleeping rough. Newtown Neighbourhood Centre (NNC) not only provides the immediate assistance needed, but we also advocate for policy changes and increased investment that will result in more affordable homes for those who need them most. What is the Car Boot Sleep Out? Join us on the 21st of May as we host the 2024 Car Boot Sleep Out on the rooftop of the Marrickville Metro shopping centre. We’re asking our community to come together and sleep out in your car, in solidarity with people experiencing homelessness. It will be an experience like no other. How it works: Register: Sign up today and get your own fundraising page. Why not get someone else to sleep out with you in your car? Get fundraising: Ask your friends and family to support you. We will equip you with all the skills and a personal fundraising coach to help you along the way. Sleep Out! Have a memorable night sleeping out on Marrickville Metro rooftop. The funds you raise will make a real difference to the lives of people across Sydney's Inner West who rely on NNC every day for assistance. Your generosity ensures nobody has to be left out in the cold this winter. Car Boot Sleep Out: Tuesday 21 May 2024, Marrickville Metro Roof Car Park. Register your interest in the 2024 Car Boot Sleep Out today!   READ MORE ON NEWTOWN

This profile was written by their doting owner, Frankie, age 7 We have four beautiful guinea pigs: Omo, Susu, Hazel and Honey. They belong to me (Frankie) and my brothers Paddy and Reggie. We have had Omo and Susu 18mths, our Grandmother Susie bought them for us in Orange. When we visit her they come with us for a holiday too. Hazel and Honey were recently rescued from Collaroy. They live on our balcony and like to run around free-range. They make a purring sound when they are happy and squeal when they are hurt or hungry. They especially like to snuggle in my daddy’s beard and jumper pockets. We feed them lots of veggies and we cut grass for them around the neighborhood. I really love them a lot and have shown them to my class on Zoom for show and tell. Thanks for writing to us, Frankie!

Studio Manager at Pinot & Picasso, Surry Hills 1. Can you tell us about yourself? We heard you are a NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Art) graduate, what did you study there? I'm originally from Melbourne and moved to Sydney to attend NIDA for Acting. I auditioned for 6 years to get into the acting course, it is very competitive with only 24 students out of thousands of applicants each year. I had an incredible 3 years. We studied everything from phonetics to clowning, movement performance to your usual Chekhov and Shakespeare. It is such a well-rounded experience for all artists in all performance disciplines. Since I graduated in November, I've been on an episode of Doctor Doctor and I've just finished performing in The Tempest with Sport for Jove. Not a bad start at all! I live with my fiancé who was an actor and is now a Clinical Psychologist, and our little puppy Baci. 2. What attracted you to working at Pinot & Picasso? As an artist, it's really important to fuel your creativity however you can. As an actor and a recent graduate, I needed to find a job that would allow me to stay creative while between acting jobs. I feel so lucky to have my job at Pinot and Picasso Surry Hills, it really is the perfect day job. 3. Do you have an artistic background? My Mum is a painter, so I've dabbled in arts and crafts all my life. I definitely don't have my Mum's painting talents, but I absolutely learned the importance of expressing yourself creatively. Whether it was making mosaic picture frames, acting with sock puppets or writing your own picture book, I was really privileged to have that sort of childhood. Now I'm an Actor who teaches painting at Pinot and Picasso, and I spend my spare time making pottery, all in Surry Hills. If that's not the dream, I don't know what is! 4. Do you think painting is just for the pro's or does everyone have an artistic side in them? I'm certainly not a pro! Aside from my personal enjoyment of painting, I never had any real flair for it. If I can do it, you can do it! The best thing is watching people discover just how creative they can be. People come into our studio and say they can't paint, and oftentimes are the ones who leave with the most interesting piece! No matter how in touch or out of touch you are with your creative side, it's in all of us and it's waiting to be expressed. It is such a healthy outlet to really let loose and let go of everything, be present in the moment, have a cheeky drink and just take the pressure off yourself for the end result and focus on enjoying the journey. Which is a huge lesson in acting, to focus on process over product. I get to watch people discover that every single day. 5. Tell us about the philosophy of Pinot & Picasso. Pinot & Picasso is all about the experience. You get to walk in our door, leave the day behind, have a drink and immerse yourself into making something for a few hours. We guide you through in an approachable and collaborative way so by the end of the night, even the 'non creatives' are taking home their very own Picasso! 6. What do you find most interesting about residents of Surry Hills? Surry Hills is such a unique and interesting hub of people. Everything is so accessible. You can walk 20 metres in any direction and you'll pass galleries, theatres, cafes, parks, there are so many amazing attractions in our neighbourhood. Naturally, I think this attracts young families, students and older couples. Essentially, Surry Hills is a melting pot of people and culture, which has made it the ultimate place to live for the last 5 years. Pinot & Picasso Surry Hills (E) surryhills@pinotandpicasso.com.au (M) 0492 219 303

We sat down with UK expat & Northern Beaches Local, Katie Thomas, to learn more about her craft and life in Australia by the sea! More on Dee Why How long have you been living/working on the Northern Beaches? I emigrated to Australia from the UK in December 2018. The first place we lived was in Dee Why. Fast forward to now and I couldn’t think of living anywhere other than the Northern Beaches. What are some of your biggest artistic achievements over your career? How long has it spanned? I picked up a paintbrush again when my daughter was born, so 13 years ago now. One of my biggest highlights has been meeting Prince Charles and Camilla with my artwork (now King and Queen) and curating an exhibition for them to visit in Wales, UK. Others include having my first Solo exhibition at the Northern Beaches Gallery in April 2021. I honestly didn’t think anyone was going to turn up to the opening night as I didn’t know many people at the time. To my surprise, the exhibition was a huge success. Four of my artworks had sold before opening and the amount of people that came along to the event was so heartwarming. A room full of strangers have now become friends and regular collectors of my work and the exhibition went on to be a sell-out. Also, curating an exhibition at The Curl Curl Creative Space last March which involved hanging 83 artworks by 29 local artists - the opening night was epic! And last year, organising the first Northern Beaches Gallery Art Prize. Again, bringing artists together and curating exhibitions is so rewarding. Helping artists have a place to show their artwork is one of my biggest achievements. Working with and being part of the Northern Beaches Gallery has helped me achieve this. How did you start out as an artist? I have always been artistic, taking all of the creative subjects in school. I went on to do a Diploma in Art and then a Degree in Graphic Design and Illustration. After Uni it took me 6 years to pick up a paintbrush again. Then I started selling artworks, cards and prints at local summer shows, Christmas fairs etc. I joined two artist collective-run shops and started selling regularly through them. And then we sold up and packed up our lives in the UK, moved to Australia with just 6 suitcases between 4 of us, to start all over again, from scratch. What would be your top 3 tips for someone else looking to pick up a paintbrush? Create an area in your home where you can set up your paints. Carve out time in your day to create. Paint and paint lots, and keep painting! Do you paint from memory or from life? Is it difficult to set up to paint outside? I paint from photographs. I take lots of pictures wherever I go. As a family, we are always visiting beaches and ocean pools on the Northern Beaches and around Sydney which is the main subject of my paintings. At the moment it is impossible for me to paint outside as I have a very busy toddler. I paint during nap times and that’s easier for me to do at home. Do you have any upcoming exhibitions/projects? Yes, we are very excited to be exhibiting again at the Curl Curl Creative Space this March as a group of Northern Beaches artists. The Exhibition is called “Stunning”, exploring the natural beauty of our surroundings. Then, we are teaming up with Head Above Water charity with an art exhibition in May to raise money and awareness of the Northern Beaches organisation. Later in the year, the Jane Goodall Institute is having a fundraising exhibition at the Northern Beaches Gallery in July. But there are lots of group exhibitions throughout the year and maybe even a Solo towards the end of the year. Watch this space! Name: Katie Thomas Website: katiethomasart.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kb.artforsale Instagram: instagram.com/katiethomasart