Search Results
Search this site
924 results found
- Summer Safety - for Dogs
More on Dee Why There is nothing better than a day out in the sunshine with your four-legged best friend, but pets feel the heat very differently to us humans. Here’s how you can keep your pets safe in the summer heat. First and foremost, there is no magical solution that will allow your pooch to safely sit alongside you on a 40-degree day for hours on end. We recommend skipping the doggie outing altogether if temperatures are close to, or over, 30 degrees. Also, remember every dog is different, some breeds are more susceptible to heat-related issues than others. Brachycephalic breeds (those with short noses and flat faces) like Bulldogs and Pugs have a harder time cooling themselves through panting and may be more prone to heat stress. Summer Safety for Dogs Outside Before you head out, we highly recommend some dog shoes. These may seem over the top for some, but considering sidewalks and roadways heat up exponentially faster than the air temp, we think it’s a given for any Australian summer. 45-degree days have even been known to melt roadways, imagine how your poor pooches' feet might feel. A great rule of thumb is, if you can’t stand barefoot for 10 seconds, they can’t stand at all. And I’m sure we don’t even need to get started on how hot sand can get. We’ve all done the tippy-toe run from our towels to the water's edge. There’s a huge range of dog shoes available - slipping over the toe and fastening above the paw. You can even get waterproof versions! Some sunscreen can never go astray on a hot summer’s day. However, all dogs with light fur or very short fur can be susceptible to sunburn. It’s recommended to apply a pet-friendly sunscreen before leaving the house, and every two hours, focusing on areas like the tips of ears and nose. Once you’re out and about, you should remember that unlike us, dogs are terrible sweaters! When we go outside on a hot day, our body will start regulating its temperature almost immediately by activating those sweat glands we all love so much. When the sweat evaporates, air cooling occurs, bringing down our body temp. Dogs have two types of sweat glands; the merocrine glands and apocrine glands. The merocrine glands function similarly to human sweat glands but are located in the paw pads. Pretty smart considering dogs are covered in fur, body-bound sweat glands wouldn’t really do the trick. The apocrine glands are located across the body and their main purpose is to release pheromones. Alas, dogs do not cool down by having sweaty paws. The main way a dog controls its body temperature is through panting! This leads me to my next, and most important point - water! Dogs can expel a huge amount of hydration through this respiratory function. As a Great Dane owner, I can report this first-hand - it ain’t pretty. In hot weather, it’s important to keep your dog hydrated. Make sure there is clean water readily available wherever you are going, and it’s always helpful to bring your own transportable supply and water bowl. Whilst ice treats can be great for dogs that are in a resting, relaxed state on a hot summer's day - it may be best to leave the ice-cold water at home for your big day out. It has been reported that ingesting a large amount of ice + ice cold water quickly can cause a cold shock leading to a rise in internal temperature. If you’re really looking to bring your dog's internal temperature down, externally, try a cooling mat or cooling vest. Dogs can, and do, suffer from over-exertion and heat stroke just like we do. If you think your dog may be showing symptoms, including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and, in severe cases, collapse, take immediate measures to cool the dog down and remove them from any sun exposure. If symptoms persist, contact your nearest vet. And of course, never leave a dog unsupervised in a car on a hot day, and if you see a dog unsupervised in a car - be sure to contact the local police.
- Putt Putt Golf comes to Cromer
More on Dee Why A brand new putt putt golf experience has opened at Precision Golf in Cromer. A new multi-use recreational and industrial site opened in November 2023 in Cromer. The Northern Beaches Business Park at 4-10 Inman Rd, Cromer, repurposed the abandoned former Roche Pharmaceuticals headquarters (original makers of ‘Berocca’ effervescent multi-vitamin tablets) with spacious new units. The first tenants, Precision Golf, an indoor golf driving range and 18-hole mini ‘Putt Putt’ golf course, officially opened for business on 20 November in unit 11, beneath the Heritage-listed hexagonal clocktower. Precision Golf is run by three PGA professionals, Ray Hawkins, Brad McIntosh and Brad Hawkins, who oversee golf coaching lessons, children’s mini-golf parties, and event packages. Most adults who grew up in Australia are aware of Putt Putt golf – the micro-sized, 18-hole courses on artificial turf that take minutes, not hours, to navigate - which for decades was a very popular choice for birthday party entertainment. The game is undergoing another renaissance and is back in peak popularity, and with indoor courses like Precision Golf’s Putt Putt in Cromer, you can play all year round, no matter the weather. History While the first miniature golf rinks appeared in the early 1900s in London, USA, Canada and Northern Europe, by the 1930s the fun-focused game was universal, although it was known by a variety of names, including adventure golf, crazy golf, extreme golf, goofy golf, midget golf, mini-golf, mini-putt, putter golf, and shorties. The 1930s was its initial heyday, then, after it was impacted by the worldwide economic Depression, it resurged again in popularity in the 1950s, with courses prefabricated by dedicated manufacturers such as Thistle Dhu, Tom Thumb, Norman & Norrmans, Taylor Brothers and Lomma Golf. ‘Putt-Putt’, with the hyphen, was trademarked to an American franchising company that initially popularised the game in Australia. The most challenging courses typically increase in difficulty as you near the finale, and require tapping your ball over obstacles (such as small streams, windmills and castles), through tunnels, up and down ramps, and strategically ricocheting it off edges to successfully sink it in the hole. Precision Golf’s 18-hole Putt Putt course reveals "each hole represents one of our stunning beach locations on the Northern Beaches" – so you visit favourite destinations Palm Beach, Collaroy and Manly all in the same session. You’re issued a scorecard – a maximum of six shots allowed per hole (any extra aren’t added) – and prices range from $10 infant, $15 a child, $22 per adult, to $58 for a family. And perhaps best of all, no booking is required – you can just turn up and tee off as soon as the first hole is free! Precision Golf Beaches Putt Putt Cromer Unit 11, Northern Beaches Business Park 4-8 Inman Road CromerPh: (02) 9417 0252 Website: https://www.precisiongolf.com.au/cromer/facilities/putt-putt/ Northern Beaches Business Park website: https://www.nbbp.com.au/ By ALEC SMART
- Introducing an Extraordinary Fusion
ADVERTORIAL More on Dee Why G.J. Gardner Homes Sydney North unveils The Bluewater with a Palm Springs Facade. In a bold departure from the ordinary, G.J. Gardner Homes Sydney North is pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation with their upcoming display home, the Bluewater with a Palm Springs facade. Under construction are two homes, each sitting across large blocks in this coveted cul-de-sac position. The front house is being constructed to the brief of “a mid-century marvel” and is designed to showcase excellence in architecture with stunning curves and textural elements. This home exhibits a Palm Springs aesthetic, exuding a sense of style that is both modern and timeless. Meanwhile, the rear home embraces a contemporary Hamptons Beach House vibe, creating a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation. Together, these two homes will add a touch of allure and luxury to the local architectural landscape, offering two uniquely customised homes that both perfectly suit the context of their Northern Beaches neighbourhood. Embracing mid-century charm with a contemporary twist The brainchild of the acclaimed G.J. Gardner architects, The Bluewater draws inspiration from the resurgence of mid-century modern style. Owner Horst Lueckl, reflecting on their multi-award-winning Freshwater display home, expressed a desire to present something even more bold and revolutionary to the neighbourhood. "The Bluewater with a Palm Springs facade reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of design trends," he shared. Playful, purposeful, and artistic design choices Every aspect of The Bluewater is a deliberate choice, with design elements that are both playful and purposeful. The eloquent pink kitchen, intricate coloured tiles, and a revival of glass bricks create a captivating interplay of light, texture and architectural innovation. Mr Lueckl emphasises, "We saw this as an opportunity to showcase cutting-edge products and designs." Working renders offer a sneak peek into the vibrant, purposeful spaces that await visitors. To navigate the intricate waters of style and experimentation, G.J. Gardner Homes Sydney North has enlisted the expertise of Dani Dean from The Make Haus. A visionary in the field, Dani Dean's discerning eye and perspective play a pivotal role in curating a space that not only embraces innovation but also radiates sophistication. Mr Lueckl notes, "The collaboration between G.J. Gardner Homes and The Make Haus has breathed life into a space that is both bold and purposeful. This home expertly balances on the fine line between opulence and style and is destined to be a showstopper." A masterpiece in the making The Bluewater promises more than just a visual spectacle, it invites visitors on an educational and immersive journey. G.J. Gardner Homes Sydney North envisions The Bluewater as a showcase of cutting-edge products and applications, creating a display home experience like never before. "A visit to our display home is a journey through a world of colour, texture, and cutting-edge products and applications that have not likely been used in a G.J. Gardner Home before," Mr Lueckl states. Built on a foundation of community support, G.J. Gardner Homes Sydney North acknowledges the contributions of local suppliers and businesses. Mr Lueckl emphasises, “This unique project would not be possible without the collaboration and dedication of our skilled local trade base and trusted network of suppliers.” Anticipation is building for the grand unveiling of The Bluewater, with G.J. Gardner Homes Sydney North aiming for an open date in June 2024. As the construction progresses, witness the future of architectural excellence as The Bluewater with a Palm Springs facade prepares to redefine the concept of a display home.
- GoodBar Has It All
More on Dee Why The GoodBar is a new cocktail bar in Brookvale, linked to a Snowy Mountains-inspired distillery. There is a stretch of water in the Snowy Mountains that John O’Connor remembers fondly. As a youth, his dad taught him to fish on the Goodradigbee River. “My experience as a young bloke fishing up there,” he recounts, “the purity and clarity of the air and water and the overwhelming beauty of the environment left a lasting impression.” His attachment to the place lives on through his spirits brand Goodradigbee Distillers, which offers a range of Australian wood-infused malts, gins and vodka, from a peppery Tasmanian Blackwood to a sweet and spicy Jarrah. “Every hardwood reacts differently to the spirit,” O’Connor explains. “We are constantly investing in research and development and trialling new hardwoods, new indigenous gin botanicals, and so on. Some Aussie hardwoods produce extraordinary flavour profiles, while some taste, to be blunt, rubbish.” One new flavour to look out for this year is the Sydney Blue Gum, which he describes as “a vanilla bomb mixed with coconut” – in other words, like an Iced VoVo! But it’s one thing to run a distillery and quite another to open a bar in the middle of Brookvale’s industrial area. “I feel The GoodBar is a natural extension for the distillery,” the founder says of levelling up. “I am naturally impatient but I do look back on where we were three years ago and where we are now and feel a sense of achievement. Getting The GoodBar up and running was hard work – all the while maintaining production volumes, our innovation streams, and sales – but now that we have it finished, I feel we can progress and focus on what will make us a serious player in the industry.” Some design ideas came from Soho Farmhouse and the Soho Club in London, while other influences include input from a Canberra-based artist. “On the wall of The GoodBar is an artwork by Lynnice Letty Church, a Ngunnawal woman,” O’Connor reveals. “Lynnice, apart from being a gem, painted the story of the river itself and of Canberra in two separate artworks for us. That has helped us guide the brand significantly.” The GoodBar is not just focused on the spirits coming from the distillery, however. O’Connor says they’re dedicated to serving quality across the board. “We not only sell our unique spirits, we sell the best of the best from around the world: whiskies, gins, rums, mezcal, and so on. Ditto with the wines.” And you won’t just find these on the drinks menu. “The food is created with our spirits, literally,” he explains. “The kingfish is cured in Freshwater Gin, the salmon is cured in our Grey Gum Vodka. The duck breast is cooked in Ironbark. So it was fundamental, as in everything we do, that the food be unique to us.” Cocktails also feature inventive twists that work well with the food. O’Connor nominates Ruby Rose, a gin and watermelon number with Cocchi Americano and notes of Strawberry Gum, elderflower, ginger and mint, and Bold Fashion, “our take on an Old Fashioned” using Jarrah malt, as his favourite mixes. “The Ruby is exceptional with the fish share plates and dukkah and dips, while the Bold Fashion complements the platters and the duck breast really well,” he recommends. “Our chocolate tart is made with the Tasmanian Blackwood malt so it, naturally enough, goes well with any whisky.” The GoodBar operates from the Goodradigbee Distillers HQ at 41 Orchard Road, Brookvale. For masterclass and tour info, menu details and table bookings, see goodbarbrookvale.com. Local favourite John O’Connor, founder of Goodradigbee Distillers and The GoodBar, says Brookvale has upped its nightlife in recent years thanks to a cluster of kindred ‘spirits’. “Brookvale has evolved significantly. The breweries all offer something different, and we are a different experience yet again,” he says. “Now there is great dining along with a variety of music and entertainment options available to people of all ages, so it fits with so many people’s idea of a good night out.” By Adeline Teoh
- Sea Bar Cafe’s New Look
More on Dee Why Sea Bar Cafe is a coastal, culinary haven with panoramic ocean views of Dee Why. Sea Bar Cafe is taking dining to new depths, creating the ultimate beachfront experience never seen before at The Strand. Now under new management, Sea Bar offers one of Dee Why’s best spots to take in the stunning views of Dee Why Beach and enjoy some incredible fare! Sea Bar Cafe Menu Diners can dig into an array of delectable dishes, served in the beachfront dining space which creates a harmonious blend of locally loved flavours, and breathtaking vistas. From the hearty DY Big Brekkie to the tantalising Fish Tacos and the indulgent Seafood Platter, Sea Bar Cafe's menu is a celebration of coastal cuisine designed to satisfy every palate. Their local favourite - John Dory with Chips & Salad - is a time-honoured delight that keeps the local community returning, time and time again. Open from 6am to 3pm daily, Sea Bar Cafe caters to both early risers and afternoon indulgers. Whether you prefer a leisurely dine-in experience or a quick and convenient takeaway, Sea Bar Cafe offers a seamless experience for all beachgoers! We caught up with the new owner, Sagar, who said, "We are thrilled to welcome guests to Sea Bar Cafe, where the beauty of our coastal location is complimented by the excellence of our menu. Thoughtfully curated to showcase the best of breakfast, brunch, and lunch, all the while providing a stunning ocean-view backdrop. Sea Bar Cafe is not just a dining destination; it's the ultimate Aussie summer experience!" Sea Bar is committed to providing a memorable dining experience every time, one that extends beyond the menu and ambience. The cafe is conveniently located at 20 The Strand, Dee Why, making it easily accessible for both locals and those looking to explore the vibrant coastal community of the Northern Beaches. Sea Bar Cafe encourages everyone to immerse themselves in the coastal charm, savour their delicious bites, and create lasting memories against the backdrop of the endless horizon. Join the team at Sea Bar Cafe, where every moment is an ode to good food, great company, and the beauty of the seaside! To complement your dining experience, Sea Bar Cafe introduced a range of irresistible beverage offers: Sip into summer with an Aperol Spritz for just $14, or enjoy two for $20! Receive a complimentary glass of wine with any lunch order, adding an extra touch of sophistication to your meal.
- Newtown Neighbourhood Centre: the beating heart of Newtown
By Adeline Teoh Read more on Newtown The Newtown Neighbourhood Centre understand how versatile a car boot can be. For some it’s where the groceries go, for others it’s a luggage compartment. But what if it were an essential storage area for your living quarters? For many Australians who have been edged out of accommodation due to the housing crisis, living out of a car may be the most viable temporary solution. It’s a prospect that the Newtown Neighbourhood Centre (NNC) highlights in its annual Car Boot Sleepout, an event that raises funds for its services by inviting members of the community along for a slumber party that helps them gain insight into people’s experience of homelessness while building connections with other socially aware locals. The 2023 event raised enough to extend the hours for the Centre’s Drop-in Hub, and it is once again asking the community to park themselves on the roof of Marrickville Metro on 21 May 2024 to continue its great work. “We're all about the community,” says Newtown Neighbourhood Centre Drop-in Hub manager Katie Yealland. “We're particularly strong advocates for people who are vulnerable, people at risk of homelessness, but we do so much more. We've got long-running aged care groups; we’ve got a social support program; we have English classes. And we have a healthy ageing adviser that’s come on board more recently. It's so diverse, but at heart it's all about responding to community needs.” One segment of the community that’s key to NNC’s success is its team of volunteers, “mostly local people with heaps of diverse skills,” Yealland describes. “Volunteers bring so much to the centre. Some of our strongest advocates are volunteers. We have a long-running volunteer program called Newtopian Outreach [who] once a week go out and speak to people who are sleeping on the street. And then those volunteers talk to their friends and community. It destigmatises homelessness when people understand people's situations a bit more. I feel like that program has a real ripple effect.” Yealland has been a witness to this effect for more than a decade. She first started working at the Centre in 2011 in its boarding house program, then left in 2017 to work in community development. She returned last year to manage the Drop-in Hub and says the changes have been wide-reaching. “Things have expanded, like the service provision. We've brought in members from other teams with various skills and specialties, like the healthy ageing adviser, the homeless response worker, someone from the boarding house team, someone in the community strengthening team. So we draw on each other’s skills and we are able to respond in a more specialised way,” she explains. Outside the Drop-in Hub, her favourite NNC service is the One Stop Shop on Thursdays, from 2-4pm. Here, a range of services – from government and legal advice, to housing, laundry, food and health offerings – come together to support those who need it. It’s accompanied by Chat ‘n’ Connect, where people can socialise over a free coffee or tea in the Centre’s courtyard. “It’s just a beautiful location and it’s a good way to bring a whole bunch of services together,” Yealland says. It's testament to its capacity to meet the needs of the people they serve, she adds. “Something I've always loved about Newtown Neighbourhood Centre is their ability to respond to needs in the community, be creative and be innovative. I feel like it’s a really resilient, adaptable organisation that can roll with the punches. And it's always doing something interesting.” Newtown Neighbourhood Centre is at 11-13 Darley Street, Newtown. The Drop-in Hub is open weekdays from 10am; see their website for details of events and services, and how to support the centre. Follow Newtown Neighbourhood Centre on Instagram to stay up to date with their latest events. Local favourite Newtown Neighbourhood Centre’s Katie Yealland has a soft spot for dogs and enjoys interacting with four-legged friends in the park. “I love Sydney Park. I usually go on my lunch breaks and get my dog fix, pat a few dogs and just hang out there,” she says. And if she’s grabbing lunch on the go, it’s probably a kale pastry from Miss Lilly’s and maybe a soy hot chocolate from Rolling Penny. “I'm an anomaly here, I don't drink coffee so that's my thing.” READ MORE ON NEWTOWN
- Humans of 2042 - Fintan Magee
Meet Fintan Magee, a prominent Australian street artist known for his large-scale murals, often depicting social and political issues. Originally born in Lismore, he began his career as a graffiti artist in Brisbane, in the early 2000s. See Fintan's latest work at 501 Wilson St, Eveleigh Magee's work is characterised by his use of vibrant colours, photorealistic images, and striking compositions that reflect an interest in environmentalism, migration, and social inequality. His murals can be found on buildings worldwide, including in Australia, the United States, Canada, and Europe, and have been featured in numerous exhibitions and publications. Magee is considered one of Australia's most talented and influential street artists and continues to create thought-provoking public artworks that challenge the status quo. We caught up with Magee to learn more about his career. Have you always been an artist? Where did it all begin? “I have been working as a full-time artist for the last 12 years; before that, I sold weed, washed dishes, and worked in a call centre. My life skills outside of art are pretty limited.” What would you credit for getting you where you are today? “I grew up in Brisbane and studied at The Queensland College of Art. I worked very hard and got extremely lucky”. What’s your relationship to Newtown/Enmore? “I moved to Sydney from Brisbane in 2013 after I finished art school, where I lived in the Inner West for almost ten years.” Do you have any future works planned for the Inner West? “At the moment, I am designing two new works in the area; one in Annandale and the other in Leichhardt.” Could you tell us about your latest piece? Readers can find it on this issue’s front cover: “The work is titled, “Patye and William” and is located beside Carriageworks at Everleigh. Is there a reason you used this location? “I didn’t select the location; the City of Sydney commissioned it for this year's Art and About program. Liza Bahamondes was in charge of location choice! For me, it fit perfectly because I wanted to do a diptych of Patyegarang - c 1780s, an Australian Aboriginal woman, thought to be from the Cammeraygal clan of the Eora nation, a crucial part of the preservation of the Gadigal language - and William Dawes - an English Lieutenant and astronomer, who recorded a conversation with Patyegarang, which remains today the only known first-hand accounts of the Gadigal language. So having two walls side by side worked perfectly. It’s one of my favourite walls that I’ve done in Sydney.” Can you tell us more about the style used for “Patye and William”? “The work is based on portrait photos I took through hammer effect glass. Because the work depicts two historical figures, this effect was about blurring or deconstructing their image; this acts as an allegory for the imperfect nature of memory and the way our stories get lost over time.” You can check out Fintan’s latest work at www.fintanmagee.com.au or follow him on socials: facebook.com/fintanmageeart instagram.com/fintan_magee
- Dress for Success - Sydney’s Iconic Bubbles & Bargains is Back!
Warm up your winter wardrobe with pre-loved fashion! Prices start at just $10. Over two days, you’ll find incredible, gently loved and new designer and luxury brand-name clothing, shoes, and accessories from your favourite Australian and International brands. This includes such brands as Bec + Bridge, Camilla, Carla Zampatti, Coach, Marc Jacobs, Scanlan Theodore, and Sass & Bide. There’s even a selection of gifts with purchase. Each sale is uniquely curated, and you can always grab a bargain, regardless of size or style. The best part? Every dollar you spend goes towards helping change a woman's life. There are three sessions to choose from, but tickets are limited and sell out quickly - grab yours today! Dates: Saturday, 20 May & Sunday, 21 May Location: Sydney Boys High School, Moore Park Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/may-2023-bubbles-and-bargains-sydney Contact: marketing@dfssydney.org
- Fred again surprises Sydney fans, again!
The news Fred again fans have been hoping for has finally arrived with 3 more Sydney shows announced at Qudos Bank Arena - May 12th, 13th and 14th. The Grammy-winning phenomenon, Fred Again, surprised fans down-under on Tuesday, Feb 27th with a photo of him atop the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge - coupled with the announcement that he will be playing a surprise show at the Sydney Opera House, that night! As expected, tickets were gone within hours and those lucky enough to get their hands on one were treated to an iconic experience. Plenty of Aussie fans were left disappointed… until the end of this show, where he assured fans in a thrilling turn of events that “he wouldn’t have flown all this way just for one show..” Fast forward to midday today - the extra shows have been announced! Fred Again is set to grace the stage at Sydney's iconic Qudos Bank Arena for an electrifying run of shows on March 12th, 13th, and 14th. The announcement has sent shockwaves of excitement through his Sydney fanbase. Hailing from the United Kingdom, Fred Again has become a household name in the global music industry, renowned for his boundary-pushing soundscapes and genre-defying compositions. Born Fred Gibson, the multi-talented artist has captivated audiences with his unique blend of electronic, pop, and experimental music, earning critical acclaim and industry accolades along the way. With a keen ear for innovation and a penchant for experimentation, he carved out his niche in the competitive realm of electronic music. His breakout moment came with the release of "FKA twigs, Headie One & Fred Again.. – Don't Judge Me" in 2019, a collaboration that showcased his prodigious talent and garnered widespread acclaim. However, it was his groundbreaking work on the album "Heaven To A Tortured Mind" by Yves Tumor that catapulted Fred Again to international fame. His contributions as a producer and songwriter played a pivotal role in the album's success, earning him the prestigious Grammy Award for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical in 2021. It was a crowning achievement for Fred Again, solidifying his position as a visionary artist at the forefront of the music industry. As Fred Again prepares to take center stage in Sydney, fans are buzzing with anticipation, eager to witness his electrifying performances firsthand. For many, the opportunity to experience his music in the sprawling confines of Qudos Bank Arena is a dream come true, promising an unforgettable evening. Fred Again's decision to embark on this surprise run of shows, yet again, underscores his unwavering commitment to his fans and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of live performance. As the countdown to March 12th begins, anticipation reaches a fever pitch, with fans eagerly awaiting the release of tickets tomorrow at 1pm (Thursday Feb 29th). Much like his Sydney Opera House show, we think this will be a total sellout! Good luck to those trying for tickets - https://www.handsometours.com/downunderagainagainagain/
- Happy Hour in Newtown
The Best Drink Specials, Cocktail Deals & After-Work Drinks Looking for the best happy hour in Newtown? Whether you're catching up with friends after work, heading out before a gig, or simply looking for great value on drinks, Newtown has no shortage of bars and pubs offering excellent happy hour specials. From discounted craft beers and cocktails to wine deals and bar snacks, here's where to enjoy some of the best after-work drinks in Sydney's Inner West. The Coopers Hotel 221 King St, Newtown coopershotel.com.au If your wallet is looking worse for wear after the weekend that was, Coopers is your destination for midweek bargain bites. Cheap lunches on a Monday, and dinner specials Tuesday + Wednesday. Once you’re finally recovered, pop in later in the week for epic drink specials and live entertainment almost every day! Monday - Friday:Happy hour from 4-6pm | $15 Beer Jugs | $14 Lunches from 12-3pm Monday - $14 Burgers from 5pm (Gender Bender Bingo from 7:30pm) Tuesday - $15 Schnittys & Parmis from 5pm (Trivia from 7pm) Wednesday - Nothing over $20 - the entire menu! Thursday - $5 Tinnies from 5pm (Joker Poker from 5pm) Saturday - $12 Cocktails from 6-8pm Sunday - $25 Sunday Roast | $12 Cocktails from 6-8pm (Live music 3-6pm) Teddy’s Enmore (upstairs at the Warren View Hotel) 2 Stanmore Rd, Enmore teddysenmore.com.au One of Newtown's best happy hours, enjoy a Young Henrys Noble Cut Martini for $10 Every Wednesday at Teddys, whether you like it Dry, Dirty or Gibson the choice is yours! The Bank Hotel 324 King St Newtownbankhotel.com.au A Newtown institution, the Bank really looks after its locals. Head in Monday-Friday, from 4-6pm and splurge on $7.50 house wines and $6 schooners. For those with more distinguished palates, you can’t miss the Sunday special - dig into $40 Lobster and fries, paired with a crisp glass of wine. The Stinking Bishops Shop 5/63-71 Enmore Rd, Newtown thestinkingbishops.com Cheese lovers unite. The Stinking Bishops is home to 2042's best cheeses - all with kinds and rinds on offer. Pop in between 5-6pm Tuesday to Friday for their Wine & Cheese pairing Happy Hour! For only $40, you can sample 3 x cheeses, with 3 x matched wines. Or for $60, you can sample the premium selection (usually $80). Whilst you’re in store, check out some of the gorgeous Cheese & Wine pairing hampers on offer. Kelly’s on King 285 King St, Newtown kellysnewtown.com.au Kelly Gang unite! 285 King St is your one stop shop for an epic night out in Newtown. Not only is it home to Bootleggers, one of Newtown's best live music venues, you can head in Monday - Saturday to grab a feed anytime before midnight. The famous Kelly Gang Happy Hour is on 7 days, 4-6pm, where you can enjoy 30% of drinks. But check out the amazing food specials that will fuel you for your night ahead: Monday: $10 Pizza Tuesday: $15 Burger Wednesday: $15 Schnitty Read more on Newtown
- A Walk Through St Ives' Past
More on St Ives St Ives history lends itself to compelling narratives - especially when they're shared by such a joyful storyteller. Bev Ogle Walks Us Through a History of St Ives There are few people living in St Ives who would have the sort of at-your-fingertip knowledge of its history that Bev Ogle has. She shares facts and anecdotes as readily as if she was sharing a bag of mixed lollies. Bev wasn’t actually born in St Ives, but she joined the history of St Ives as a young girl in the early 1960s. Back then the leafy suburb was a remote oasis, untouched by over-zealous developers. “It used to be all five acre lots….well, not all, that’s an exaggeration, but it used to be full of market gardens,” says Bev. Most of those were owned by Italian immigrants and some were owned by Germans. A handful of markets still remain in Rosedale Road. Nobody fenced off their properties in the 1960s and ‘70s; their borders merged and it created a strong communal feel. Everyone knew each other; kids played in the front yards; people proudly cultivated their own gardens. Horses were almost as common as dogs and Pony Club was at the very centre of the community. There would have been over 30 kids in the club back then. The Pony Club in St Ives “Pony Club was always active…everybody was out every afternoon exercising horses and screaming up and down bush tracks,” says Bev. When streets such as Banool Ave were first built, the bulldozers left high, broad hills of dirt and clay which were terrifying to ride down but fun to climb on horseback. “There were a lot of active parents too, who did a lot of work at Pony Club itself, you know, like building the club house and the stables and things like that,” says Bev. “A couple of times we had Olympic people come out and spend the day there and give kids a bit of a boost: ’This is where you can go if you’re good enough and your horse is good enough.’” Bev kept horses on what used to be the old dairy at the junction of Warrimoo Ave and Collins Rd. Every two years she bred a new foal. St Ives History: Schools For a long time there was only one small school in St Ives - St Ives Central which opened in 1889 on the corner of Mona Vale Rd and Rosedale Rd. Bev taught there briefly, before the population in the district flourished. “I taught at St Ives Central School and we had 120 kids one year and we thought we were overcrowded!” The dual historic buildings that formed the school and the principal’s residence eventually gave way to a growing population and a new, larger school elsewhere. The buildings now function as The Old School Trattoria restaurant and gallery. St Ives history of expansion accelerates when the Corpus Christi Catholic School was established in 1954. It also bgan as a humble little schoolhouse, but, according to Bev, “it’s grown and grown and grown…because the population’s grown.” The predecessor of the modern looking Christ Church building on the corner of Cowan Rd and Mona Vale Rd was an old fibro and timber structure. It was built around 1909 and sat prominently on a raised section of town. “It was said it had the best bell in the belfry of any church because it had to be the loudest bell possible to get the people to go to church,” laughs Bev. Garigal National Park has only been an official reserve for around 30 years. Prior to 1991 the whole area was generally referred to as Davidson Park and it was much more freely accessible. “The boys used to like to walk down the water pipe at weekends and camp for the weekend and catch fish (though they took sausages as well),” says Bev. St Ives History: Parks in St Ives It was disappointing for a lot of locals who couldn’t use the trails through the park anymore. “On horseback, every week, we all used to ride to French’s Forest and back, through the bush. And when French’s Forest show was held each year, all the locals just rode out there because by the time you’d gone along the bush track, all the horses had settled down and you had a peaceful day,” laments Bev. There were orchards along the route. When the orchard owners saw riders go by, they would often leave half a bucket of apples or oranges for the riders on their return. Famous novelist, Morris West, was among the many generous fruit givers. Village Green was originally a flower market that sloped down from Cowan Rd to Memorial Ave. The owner bequeathed it to the people of St Ives in his will and council later levelled it to create playing fields. People of St Ives One of the most prestigious and influential St Ives personalities was Eben Gowrie Waterhouse OBE CMG (1881–1977). Among his many talents was his impeccable green thumb and he was renowned world-wide for his contribution to the study and propagation of camellias. He established the Camellia Grove Nursery in 1939 which used to have “orchids like you couldn’t imagine. They really were spectacular,” says Bev. The nursery still operates today. The original Waterhouse home with its spectacular garden - Eryldene in Gordon - is now a living museum. Another significant figure in St Ives’ history is Arthur H Gillott who started a road haulage and bus company in 1935. It continued as a wholly family owned business until 1998 and was pivotal in the infrastructure development of St Ives. Bev recalls Gillott owned bulldozers and trucks excavating the earth for Cassandra Ave, Grevillea Ave, and Melaleuca Drive and using the soil to help build playing fields at St Ives High. Remembering the 1944 Bush Fires Being within bird-call distance of vast areas of bushland is one of the blessings of living in St Ives - but also one of its curses. Every summer brings the threat of bushfires. One of the moments in St Ives history was in 1994 and it remains vivid in Bev’s memory. Fuelled by accumulated undergrowth and fanned by gusty winds, flames coursed through the valley and crossed the perimeter of the parklands. Bev recalls emergency services using Barra Brui oval as a base. Rescue vehicles convened there and helicopters even landed. Yet, despite the horrors of fire, Bev says her favourite thing about St Ives is living in the bush. “I mean I look across the road and I look straight down into a valley of trees.” It’s also a very supportive community. And on New Year’s Eve people gather in the street to watch the fireworks over the harbour. So there’s really no need to go anywhere else.
- St Ives Showground, a Military Training Camp in WWII
More on St Ives By Alec Smart The history of St Ives Showground includes it being a military training ground during World War Two and being part of a network of defence installations preparing for possible invasion from Japanese forces. Soldiers from 14th Battalion stationed at St Ives Showground, c1941 St Ives Showground Origins The showground was originally founded in 1926 as an arena for the Northern Suburbs Agricultural and Horticultural Association (formerly known as St Ives Fruit Growers, a coalition of orchard and market gardeners who previously exhibited at Hassall Park). The bushland the showground repurposed on the northern fringe of St Ives residential area was known locally as Paddy’s Forest and the timber merchants who felled trees in the vicinity called the adjacent rocky landscape First Rocks. There were reportedly many Aboriginal engravings on the opposite side of Mona Vale Rd (then known as Pittwater Rd and not officially renamed until 10 Jan 1951), around the site that became the NSW Police Driver Training School in 1962 (HART Rider and Driver Training since Nov 1999). St Ives Showgrounds in World War Two World War II began on 1 September 1939 with the German invasion of Poland. Most countries entered the conflict siding with one of the two military alliances: the Allies (principally UK and British Commonwealth nations); and the Axis powers (primarily Germany, Japan, Italy and Spain). The USA joined later, in December 1941. Bren Gun Carrier at St Ives Showground, c1941 On 3 September 1939, in a public broadcast transmitted on every radio station, Australian Prime Minister Bob Menzies announced Australia was militarily involved in the war. From 1941 - 1944, the St Ives Showground was occupied by the Australian Army, mainly the 18th Battalion. The arenas were divided between zones for marching drills and bayonet practice (using sandbags suspended from wooden frames), whilst target shooting was practiced in surrounding rock escarpments. As a lad, I remember a pile of mangled rifle bullets near Ku-Ring-Gai Creek that schoolboys would rummage through to find an occasional intact bullet head. Close to Richmond Rd (where there was an Italian Prisoner of War camp in 1946), we called it ‘Bullet Hill’. Council contractors smothered the shrapnel with a bulldozer, circa 1975, to widen a trail for fire trucks to access the Wildflower Garden. Nearby there were concrete steps to a firing platform (now disintegrated and absorbed by the bush). On a rock ledge above the creek, 12 holes remain revealing where targets were mounted on steel poles. Ku-Ring-Gai Creek near Richmond Rd, St Ives. A concrete shooting platform used to be on the right above the track, and metal stumps from the remains of the original rifle targets are still embedded in the rock ledge by the creek on the left. Photo: Alec Smart At the showground there was limited infrastructure in case Japanese aerial surveillance revealed it was a military installation. However, the soldiers dug sewage channels and constructed a number of timber buildings for workshops, a bar and ‘mess’ halls (troop dining sheds). The soldiers themselves were accommodated in rows of tents in two separate camps to the north and west of the main arena. A brick ‘ablution’ block (showers) still stands beside a dirt track 100m to the left of the Conway Ave front entrance, although trees have almost completely reclaimed it. The historic shower block in St Ives Showground, being reclaimed by nature. Photo: Alec Smart Between 19 February 1942 and 12 November 1943, Darwin was bombed 64 times, with the initial surprise attacks involving two separate raids, which killed 252 people and destroyed 57 ships. Tensions in Sydney heightened from 16 May 1942, when seven Japanese submarines began attacking Australian and Allied Navy and merchant ships along the NSW coast, sinking nine vessels and killing over 50 sailors. On the night of 31 May 1942, three midget submarines entered Sydney Harbour. Whilst two were detected and intercepted, the third slipped through towards Garden Island Naval Dockyard. In an attempt to destroy a US heavy cruiser, the torpedo missed and struck HMAS Kuttabul, a ferry converted to Navy accommodation, which exploded and sank, killing 21 sleeping sailors. Raising the Japanese midget submarine that was sunk in Sydney Harbour on 31 May 1942 The attack was followed on 8 June by Japanese submarine I-24 firing 10 shells into Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs from just 10km off the coast of Malabar, using the beam from Macquarie Lighthouse to guide its weapons’ trajectory. The shells destroyed houses in Woollahra district, but the only casualty was an American pilot who died after he crashed his plane on take-off whilst attempting to confront the submarine. As a consequence of the mid-1942 raids on Sydney, roads leading up from the Northern Beaches were mined, and Dumble tank stops (timber bollards), dragon’s teeth (concrete 1.5m high pyramids), iron stakes and rolled barbed wire were installed along Sydney’s beaches to prevent a coastal invasion. (A row of timber tank traps still exists in Dee Why Lagoon.) Defensive dragons' teeth pyramids and Dumble stop timber bollards in Bayview during WWII. Beach Defences in World War Two Between Manly and Palm Beach, 300 dragon’s teeth tank traps, weighing approximately 2 tonnes each, were strategically placed along the shoreline, the first group of eight on Fairy Bower Beach in Cabbage Tree Bay, Manly. (A single one still stands in the mangroves at Bayview.) Surveillance crews from the 18th Battalion were stationed on Barrenjoey Headland and other strategic points overlooking the South Pacific Ocean. They were ordered to report back to their commanders at St Ives Showground every hour via telephone from The Beacon Store at Avalon Beach. Troops from 18 Battalion on lookout at Barrenjoey Headland, 1942. Photo: Fred Powderly In 1943, a concrete three-dimensional map of Broken Bay and the Northern Beaches was constructed adjacent to the main arena in the showground. According to Ku-Ring-Gai During War – An Oral History of the Ku-Ring-Gai Home Front during the Years 1939-1945, by Margaret Wyatt, “The St Ives map was built specifically to show the roads in relation to the coast and the location of mines along the roads...” The map familiarised soldiers with the local topography, revealing vulnerable points where an invading army may land. This reporter remembers the concrete map as a kid, when groups of us would run across its craggy surface, unaware that it was an important link to the past and our nation's defence. The concrete map is still in place, and apart from a metal black fence enclosing it, it is exposed to the elements and slowly deteriorating. I wish Heritage NSW would preserve it for future generations. The WWII 3D military map of Barrenjoey + Pittwater eroding in St Ives Showground. Photo: Alec Smart Ku-Ring-Gai Historical Society are of the same opinion. As long ago as April 2006 they declared, “Many readers would have seen a large concrete map of the St Ives/Hawkesbury area at the St Ives Showground and wondered what it was all about. It was constructed by the 18th Battalion (The Ku-ring-gai Regiment) when preparing to defend our country from possible assault by Japanese forces landing near the Hawkesbury or northern beaches. “Its purpose was to help our troops gain familiarity with the topography of the area. Weather and time have had their effect and it badly needs attention if it is to survive as tangible evidence of our local history. For many years, Ku-ring-gai Council has deferred any decision on its fate ‘pending a heritage study’. Some members of the 18th Battalion and I met heritage consultants there recently giving hope that some preservation of this significant site might be forthcoming…” D Company, 20 Pioneer Battalion, heading to their campsite at St Ives Showground, 28 June 1945 End of World War II In Sept 1943, with around a million US military personnel stationed in Australia and Japan on the retreat across South East Asia, Prime Minister John Curtin declared that “the danger of invasion has passed.” The 18th Battalion was disbanded on 8 Nov 1944 and troops were amalgamated into the 41st and 42nd Battalions. In 1945, after the war ended, a number of the showground’s military buildings were auctioned off to private purchasers, dismantled and taken elsewhere. Others, such as the cluster of timber buildings to the right (east) of the Conway Ave entrance, were repurposed into the Agricultural Show Office and Dog Hut B, whereas the amenity buildings to the north and east of the main arena were stripped back to their concrete foundations and converted to horse washing platforms. The 22nd annual St Ives Show resumed at the showground in 1949 after a seven-year break. One of the former military huts still in use in St Ives Showground. Photo: Alec Smart












